Today was a day marked by both necessity and unexpected small joys, beginning with an important trip to the provincial hospital. The morning started with a hint of concern, as my grandmother hadn't been feeling her best. Her neighbors, always looking out for her, had highly recommended a free check-up at the provincial hospital, and so, with her health as our top priority, that's exactly where we headed.
The journey itself was quite a challenge. The sun beat down relentlessly, turning the outside world into a blazing inferno. The heat was so intense that I found myself feeling a bit dizzy during the ride, a testament to the scorching conditions. Despite the discomfort, we pressed on, driven by our concern for grandma, and thankfully, we arrived at our destination safe and sound.
Stepping inside the hospital offered a welcome respite from the oppressive heat. We approached the guard, who was helpful in directing us to the area designated for the free check-up. We found our way to the check-up area and settled in, while my mother, ever the efficient one, took charge of speaking to the counter staff, sorting out the paperwork, and understanding process. The waiting period, as is often the case in hospitals, felt a bit prolonged, but our patience was rewarded as grandma received her consultation.
With the hospital visit behind us, it was time for the next leg day of our day's adventure. Grandma, perhaps feeling a bit better and definitely in the mood for some retail therapy, expressed a desire to visit SM, one of the popular malls here in Bacolod City. She had a few essentials she wanted to pick up, and who were we to say no to grandma's wishes?
Upon entering the cool, air-cpnditioned embrace of the mall, my mother excused herself to use the bathroom. My grandmother and I waited patiently outside. It was during this bried pause that grandma's eyes lit up. She spotted a stall selling "turon", a delightful Filipino snack, usually a wrapped banana fritter, sometimes with other fillings, fried to golden crisp. Unable to resist the temptation, she promptly bought fiver pieces, a clear indication that her spirits were definitely on the mend!
Once mom rejoined us, our next stop was Hua Kong, a store where grandma regularly purchases her menthol stick. This small, potent stick is her go-to whenever she feels a bit under the weather or just needs a refreshing pick-me-up. The minty aroma is her personal remedy for a clearer head and a sense of well-being.With her menthol stick secure, I took a quick detour, venturing alone into the bustling department store. I was on a mission to find a particular soap I'd been planning to buy. After a bried search, I located it and made my purchase, quickly rejoining my mother and grandmother who were patiently waiting for me.
With all our errands complete and a few treats acquired, we finally made our way home. The day had been long, starting with a necessary but somewhat anxious hospital visit and transitioning into a more relaxed and enjoyable trip to the mall. It was a day that underscored the importance of family, the simple pleasure of a good snack, and the comfort of being home, safe and sound.