Titas. Instead of just using the word to refer to our biological aunts, or our parents’ friends, or anyone else who we can’t address by their first name without being iffy, the word “Tita” is now also being understood in a different light more than to just literally being a middle-aged (or senior) woman who gets the finer things in life (read: bi-weekly mani/pedi sesh is a must or else the thought of ugly nails and dried skin will ruin your day; or call girl friends as “mars” colloquially shortened to replace “kumare”).
Today, Tita has now developed to become a household name to many Filipino women that all share the trait of being practical and pragmatic, all in a very lovable and unique sense appreciated by the people around them.
We’ve been hearing this term thrown around a lot of times even in the most ordinary activities like choosing to stay in and watch a nice movie or TV show by yourself instead of hitting the bar on a weeknight (unlike before, admirably, during your “youth”), or even choosing to drink cold pressed juice when most of your friends are downing alcohol at a party (well that could also be you just leading a healthy lifestyle, hats off!)
So how do you know if you’re doing the holidays like a bona fide Tita? Read on and find out and share that chuckle with your fellow amigas!
1. You buy gifts in bulk but add a personal touch to it!
To make your friends feel more special though, you add something personal like have the recipient’s name printed or embroidered on the item, and of course meticulously pick out the items in different colors —
Susan will like this red pomegranate soap because she loves the bold color that mirrors her personality! Chary naman will love this green-tea infused scented candle kasi she loves green tea very much, like those KitKat bars she hoarded from Duty Free.
2. You already have your Noche Buena menu planned out
3. …And of course, you’re cooking a special dish!
4. You’re a techie Tita with a Spotify list (including Christmas in Our Hearts)
5. After Christmas shopping, you’ve got a spa session planned out
6. You’ve got your trademark cookies and baked goods
Some Titas up their game by preparing homemade morcon or embotido.
7. You’ve got your crisp 20’s and 50’s ready!
*This might also be a good excuse since you’re a bit out of touch about the latest gift ideas for their age group.
So whether you relate and fit the bill of becoming a Tita, one thing’s for sure: Being a Tita could mean you are always practical in whatever you do, and that you’ve got things planned and organized, so it’s not a bad thing after all. Now go on and finish that glass of wine (or Welch’s Sparkling Wine or Lemon-infused water you have right there), have a laugh and share with your fellow amigas.