Friday, October 02, 2009

Vacation

It's been awhile since we got back from our month long vacation in the Philippines. Took me some time to get used to the quietness of our home and the food. Tried to recreate the dishes that my dad made but couldn't. I believe it's not the ingredients that makes the difference or how you cook it, it's the company you have at the dinner table that gives the food it's distinct taste. Slowly I forced myself to acclimate to my old life again. It's hard. But I think I'm doing all right.

The vacation was a surprise to my family. That's why I couldn't make an entry about the preparation and excitement that I was feeling. Only one sister knew we were coming. Must have been hard keeping our secret! So, armed with a suitcase full of pasalubong, we flew. 20 hours of flight time and I was back in my native land. The applause when we landed at the NAIA got me teary eyed. I'm home! Well, sort of... I was back in my native land! The excitement in the plane was unbelievable. Rick asked me if I was happy to be back... a smile and a nod was all I can handle. I knew if I opened my mouth, I would burst into tears. Weird. I can't explain the feeling... but I was ready to cry... because I was happy! :-)

I can still see my parents' huge smiles when they saw who pulled up in front of the house. I was so happy to see everybody again. It was like being in a dream. Well, it was kinda... Haven't slept for more than 30 hours. Rick and I were instant celebreties! It was uncomfortable at first. I'm not used to all the attention, you know. Besides, I didn't want the neighbors to know we were there, hence the surprise. But I guess it's hard to hide a white guy! Haha!

The month was over in a flash! Friends and relatives I promised to visit, never happened. I did get to see some of them... but it wasn't enough. I felt bad. They must have thought I became a snob. But it was my first time as a balikbayan. I didn't know what the protocol was... So i hope they will forgive me and give me another chance. In the future, we will plan our vacation better. I know now that one can never have too much chocolate. That's the one thing a balikbayan should never forget.

Although there was a lot on my to do list that didn't get done and with Rick getting sick, we still had fun. I felt bad for him. But being sick did not dampen his spirit or stop him from enjoying the sun and sea! It was fun to bond with my brothers and sisters again as well. They have grown so much and had become their own person. I had to get to know them all over again. I got to meet my two adorable nephews too! Oh, how I miss them! I miss everything, Filipino! The noise, the mall, friends, family and food! Can you believe I did not have any durian at all? I may not be a big fan, but it's a must when visiting Davao. Oh, such shame! We did get our tan and ten pounds... So we're good!

It was a relief that we were running late for our flight back. Quick hugs, kisses and goodbyes was exchanged at the airport. No time for tears. Thank God for that! Tears welled in my eyes as we were walking in. I refused to look back because it's hard. I felt bad for leaving them again. Goodbyes are always hard, but the promise of coming back soon somehow helps.