September 29, 2022 - RIP Sir!,

About 2 weeks ago, I had a skin prick test done by my allergy specialist, a total of 48 pricks for different allergens. She needed to check if my immunotherapy was working. 

My results were favorable, especially since they found that cat hair is not on the list of my allergens anymore. 

I couldn't thank her enough. I enjoyed the outdoors so much and gardening is on top of the list. 

I can sleep well. I can manage my allergy and asthma symptoms, and without a doubt, I am enjoying a really good quality of life now. 

So we chatted about gardening and that her dad, according to her, loves planting too. He grows vegetables. We also discussed Filipino dishes using ingredients fresh from the garden. 

Yes, they're Filipino Americans. I think they migrated here when she was about 6 or so. 

My doctor asked me to send her photos of my garden and the varieties I grew. I told her that I'd be sharing him my seeds once I'm done fermenting them, probably on my next visit. 

Yesterday, I went in for treatment for this month. I didn't bring the seeds because some aren't ready yet. Just a little more drying and then I'll pack them. 

I am going again for another set of shots next week, but I was told I couldn't come on Monday because they'll close early (I always come in after 2 pm), and on Tuesday, their office is closed all day. 

So I asked why since it is not a federal holiday. The nurse said, because the doctor's dad just died. I think those days are the viewing and the interment. 

I stood there a couple of feet away from the nurse, ready for my 4 painful shots on my arms with a lump in my throat. 

I was sad. 

I haven't met her dad but I heard about him from my doctor. He wanted some of my bitter melon, some tomato varieties, and my red Malabar spinach seeds. And even if he's gone, I’ll still bring him some next week because I promised him that I would. 

RIP, Sir.