I always try to live by my name - JOY! I'm such a positive-thinking person that it would take so much to really put me down. I think that there is goodness in everything and everyone. If you're just patient enough, all that is good is bound to show one way or another.

I consider my sons PAOLO and MIGGY as my greatest trophies, my primary sources of strength and inspiration. I may fail in other aspects of my life but I vow never to fail as a mother to them. I feel secure in their love and trust in me. And I would love for them to see me not just as a mother, but also, as their best friend.

I don't think money is everything. I will concede, though, that it is important, - for some necessities like food on the table, clothing and a habitable shelter. But in the end, you can't take your millions with you when you die.

There are three activities I enjoy so much that I lose all concept of time when I'm doing them: gardening, playing volleyball and reading. I "talk" to my orchids, I can play volleyball until my legs, arms and hands are sore and I don't put down a good book until I've read it cover to cover.

I love to cook. For me, cooking is not a chore but an art to please all our senses. Food after all, should nourish not just the body, but also the soul.

Like most Filipinos, another passion of mine is music. For me, it soothes the soul and uplifts the spirit. I don't care much for acid rock music, though.

I'd love to travel. They say travelling to new places educates and gives you a perspective that is not possible just by looking and reading about them in books. I would love to go to places where the four seasons are dramatically seen and felt - spring, summer, autumn and winter. And to talk and interact with the people of those places. Anywhere will be great as long as it can be reached by foot or some other form of transport, and the people are friendly and warm.

I'm most at ease in jeans and t-shirt but some say I look good in a cocktail dress, too. I don't wear too much make-up - just a facial moisturizer, a dab of lipstick and perfume and I'm all set to go.

I smile and laugh a lot. Even when times are tough, I always find a reason to smile. For one thing, it is easier to smile than to frown. And, smiling makes one look better. Frowning makes one look older than her years!

I think communication is very important. I believe there is no conflict that cannot be solved by open and honest exchange of words. However, we need to choose our words well as we speak, for they can also hurt in untold ways when said without kind consideration for the feelings and sensibilities of others.

I am deeply spiritual and prayerful. I pray to praise and give thanks to our Heavenly Father for all His blessings. My son Miggy is my special prayer partner.

I'd love to hear from you. But only if you have a zest for life and value true friendships.