He is Joaquim Reandelar Bantang. He’s my cute little nephew (age 4). I miss him so much because he can easily take my stress away when I get home during my school days. He’s not living in our apartment anymore. UP granted a house for he’s mom and dad both teaching in that university. I got a chance to talk and play with him once again during our Visita Iglesia last Friday, April 6, 2012. After visiting 3 churches, we had our quick snack at Mcdonalds – the only fast food chain available in that day. We had our shares of fillet-o-fish burger, French fries and iced tea.
While we were eating – “Tito, what’s your favorite animal?” Joaquim asked me. I immediately think of an animal that denotes good character/impression from story books and cartoons but all I can think of is a turtle and it sounds really vapid. To cut the story short, I sent back the same question to him and he answered quickly, “DINOSAURS!” he yelled thrice. “What’s your favorite dinosaur?” I added. “I like all types of dinosaur. Plant to Meat eating dinosaurs, raptors and armored dinosaurs.” I gave a playful grin and asked. “Can you name some for me?” I expect he can only reckon 3 or 4 names, but he enumerated all of it from plant to meat eating, raptors and armored dinosaurs. I was shocked and amazed! “I’m so proud of you!” I said to him while pinching he’s cheeks. I hugged Joaquim and gave him a kiss.
The last stop in our Visita Iglesia is the Chapel of Holy Sacrifice inside the UP campus. We attended the 3pm mass and head back to their house after. Joaquim introduced me to his collection of dinosaur books and toys. I had so much fun that I end up reading some of the books while Joaquim is beside me listening.
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This wasn’t the first time I’ve seen him interested on something. At first, he wanted to be an astronaut, to see the moon, the stars, the planets and to explore the universe. Then, we wanted to become a train driver/train architect for he is interested to the types of train – including a collection of Thomas the Train dvds. And now, the amazing era of the dinosaurs, from books, toys and Jurassic Park movies. But what I can’t forget this little wonder once said, that the most important thing he’ll teach to everyone when he grow up, is to share he’s knowledge about God.
Joaquim with his dad and his dream of being an astronaut
Discovering the universe
His love for trains
He also loves to read books and asks for it every time instead of toys. Heres a proof.
Endorphins 