This holiday season is another time for family reunion. Though I won’t be spending Christmas with my family, I could imagine the number of guests and relatives who will be visiting us… Must be heartwarming… as always!
When I was little, I used to ask “papasko/pamasko” (Christmas gifts) from my ninong and ninang (godparents). But now that I’ve grown up, I’m the one who is sending them gifts. 
I just missed the part where I have to dress up all day, accept gifts and eat lots…
Indeed, time has changed. I am not totally sad about it. Reminiscing things can’t just be helped. But what I am most thankful about is having a loving and caring family. I also have some sort of kind and favorite relatives. Haha. Even when it’s not Christmas, they find time to visit us and bring a little something for the kids. Since I am away from home, they always ask about me. And they always admire how a good person I am… how smart and responsible… and they say all those good things while staring at my acquired medals and certificates. Too bad, I don’t have trophies in my collection. Maybe if I excelled in sports, I’d probably get one or more. But I’m just good with academics. And that’s another thing to be grateful about because I’m here to where I am supposed to be. I am contented with my practical approach to life. I can celebrate Christmas on my own, with what I have…
Cheers for a merry Christmas and a happy new year!
For image credits, check Anime Images.
When I was in primary school, I remember my teacher discussing how the Filipino culture of close family ties hinder the success of most families and some family members. For example, the parents will prefer staying in the country rather than going abroad to seek greener pasture. The eldest who’s already married will be kept under the same roof so as to stay with the parent and siblings. The youngest who’d like to pursue a course in the city, say Manila, was pledged to finish a degree in their province instead.
But these are all things in the past. As time goes by, Filipinos become more practical and reasonable. Parents work overseas without fear of leaving their children in their homelands. With them are their family photos in precious family photo frames, woven dreams and a strong belief that they can build a brighter future by working hard away from home. Our family should make us stronger and family members should help each other. Togetherness is not just demonstrated by staying at home with everyone but felt within the caring hearts. There will always be a bond that keeps Filipino family together.
Have a blessed new year everyone!
I just had a good start for this year! Finally, after four years of working, I was able to spend the new year with my family! I’m so happy about it! I enjoyed my long weekend at Batangas and so excited to carry out my plans! Yay! I’m truly blessed… Thank you Lord!
So… Happy New Year everyone!
PS.
Another blessing: I just won in JP’s online contest!
Image source: pixmac.com
I’m confused whether or not this is the right time to confess… I’ve been keeping a lot of things from my parents. If I am to write them a letter… it will be on a piece of paper and in the native language. And then I’ll give it to them personally. For now, let me post what my heart tells me…
The joys of parents are secret, and so are their griefs and fears.
Mom,
I thank you so much for all the love and care you’ve showered us since we’re born until now. Thanks for preparing my meal three times a day. Thanks for doing the laundry instead of me doing it. Thanks for fixing our bed early in the morning. Thanks for buying us our school needs. Thank you for being the best mother in every sense of the word.
I just hope you can be stronger. I love the faith I see in you. Be more positive, always!
Dad,
Thanks for being my first teacher. Even if other people always say that I inherited my intelligence from your mom, I believe that it’s your genes that made me this smart. Thanks for working hard for my tuition fees and other school projects. Thanks for trusting me that much and always praying for my success. I am lucky you’re not that strict. Even if my love for you and mom are equal, I still prefer the way you raise and discipline us. Thanks for all the support when I made the toughest decision in my life.
To both of you, thank you for being proud of me… I am sorry that I can’t be with you all the time. I’ll be always here for you. Again, my never-ending thank you. Love you so much.
*sniff*
I’m missing them real bad… 
Good thing I’ll be visiting my hometown this weekend with my sister. Time to be with them again!
*This post is brought to you by The 30-Day Challenge!
•Day 24- A letter to your parents
I think I have no choice but to go through our old and dusty photo albums… And I have to scan my baby picture! Tsk!
Me, as a baby...
Googled pic will do for the meantime! Kawaii!
Image source: cartoondollemporium.com
*This post is brought to you by The 30-Day Challenge!
•Day 16- Another picture of yourself (baby pic!)
