Mini Soiree

So the family and some friends decided to have this mini social gathering. Tito Vincent and Tita Jojie’s friends came over to just have a good time with us so it was sort of resolutely thrown to accommodate some catching-ups between old chums. Well, the purpose was well-served! They bonded by preparing and cooking all the food for the dinner. We did have a great time I say! All of us. The mini soiree was held at our kubo. My Lolo Oyong and Lola Cerila had it built many years ago. I think their purpose was to bring the family and friends together once in a while. Since then, this kubo has been a witness to many happy Christmases, new years, birthdays, get-togethers, and all. Here are some pictures taken that night:

Papa and Tito Vincent having their never-ending kwentuhan.

Capiz lights? Is that what we call these pretty things?

Are you lusting over the food yet? There’s more! :}

That’s my brother devouring his food.

Family and friends enjoying the food and the night!

Meet the yummy Palabok, salad with mango dressing, and Maruya.

Having trouble in choosing which to eat?

My sister.

Her boyfriend, Din.

Happy me.

Last stop. Desserts! Native all the way.

 That night was beautiful. Laughters hovering. Smiles plastered on the face. Stories overflowing. It was, indeed, a beautiful night. No doubt. There were times when I wish I could stop the clock from ticking, the time from moving. That night was one. But I couldn’t. And no one could do it on my behalf. We only had the choice to cap the night off with something nice. What’s a good way to end an already wonderful night then? A MASSAGE. Ate Hannah, Din and I went to Nuat Thai right after the dinner. ☺

Boracay Getaway

White sand, waves, sea water, shakes, bikinis, and the night life — some few words that automatically pop up when we mention Boracay. It’s been a long time coming!! Finally, I am now licensed to personally testify on the impeccable beauty of Boracay Island. We had been planning this trip for years but things always had their way to meddle, causing us to turn down the inviting island. My cousins from LA even got to see Boracay before us. It was just a bit sad that my tita Crissy and cousin Codi were not able to tag along since they had to fly back to Florida ASAP.
We left Bulacan by 5:00 AM to catch our 9:30 AM flight. Well, it turned out we were 4 hours too early. Good thing Kris Aquino was really entertaining on her morning show. Kris TV showed Vigan, Ilocos Sur. Perhaps, it could be the family’s next destination. I especially loved the food they featured — Pinakbet, Pakbet na pizza, Longganisa, Empanada, etc.
Patio Pacific Boracay welcomed us with necklaces made with shells and soothing glasses of green juice. Patio Pacific Boracay’s rate was P4,500 per night, which was rather expensive because we found out that there were hotels that offered almost the same services for less. But I’d give Patio an 8.5/10. The rooms were pretty, clean, and inviting. The pool’s water was warm. They had a gym and a wall for, of course, wall climbing. They claimed that it’s the highest in all of Boracay Island.
First day was somewhat wasted since we were all drained by the all-day travel. We landed on Kalibo soil at 1:30 PM. Took the bus and boat and reached the appointed destination at around 4:30 PM already.

Second day was much better. Commenced the day with a heavy breakfast with the family. Din, my sister’s boyfriend, took the picture. Hence, his absence. Tita Jojie and Tito Vincent stayed in a different hotel. Would have been so much better if we all had stayed at Patio Pacific.

- ☼ -

I was hoping to say good morning to crispy bacons but they did not serve them that morning. It’s all good, still.

Pancakes, French toasts, butter and jelly, fresh fruit juice, Tawilis, scrambled egg and rice for me. And oh! Add a couple of tasty sausages!

My mother and father being all too sweet. HHWWPSSP. HAHAHA!

 

I felt so blessed to have seen this so early in the morning! Thank You, Lord. I could stay here all day just reading the Shopaholic series!

 

Din and Elisha.

 

 

Elisha.

 

Din and Ate Hannah.

 

Lunch at the hotel.

 

The yummy lunch prepared by Patio Pacific staff.

 

 

Boracay at night.

 

Picturesque.

 

Dinner at CYMA. Thanks for the treat, Din!

 

Lambs. Lambs. Yummy LAMBS! Something Greek for dinner.

 

 

The couples.

 

 The happy happy girl!

The past few days were heavy for the family. The 3-day rest at Boracay was very much needed. I thank God that despite the loss, we were happy. He showed us that there is beauty left in small and big things; it is something to be thankful for no matter what happens.