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We just found out lately that LJ has been learning a trade at an early age! Nanay Jeanet, arriving from office, found him bedraggled with running nose and dirty finger nails, aptly described as “gatabisay”. Early in the farm and almost every time, he roams the neighborhood at home, he scavenges for discarded metals- mostly rusting nails; plastic containers- mostly soda refills – in the trash, and; cracked plastic basins. After collecting scraps, with a constant reminder to stay on the sidewalk and not to cross the street alone, he will sell them to a nearby scrap buyer. He learns his trade from other kids in the neighborhood. He regards his Nanny Norma as his banker, often for just a short period, because he withdraws his deposits every time he hears the calling of the kutsinta and ice drop vendors. We heard him once talking to his cousins that he would share his sale. In return his cousins help him rummage for scraps. We find out, they keep their find to themselves and Lj is left only with his. Anyway, he is passing his trade secrets. Luckily, his Lola Gloria is always around to point him where there are lots of rusting nails. We are beginning to worry if our surroundings run out of rusting nails and discarded plastics. We may arrive home devoid of our rice pots, plates, urinal and water containers! A constant reminder to Lj: Ayaw intawon ipamaligya ng atong mga kaldero, plato ug arenola basin magkaon nalang ta sa bagol ug mangihi sa silopin unya!