Closer Family Ties

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Over 5 years ago, my family decided to move out from our home in Navotas where my brother and I grew up and lived for decades. It was a pain to let go of a home that holds most of our memories. But, we knew we’re better off living far away from all the negativity and bad vibes/unfortunate events that seemed to be happening left and right.

When we finally moved to our present home here in Malabon, I felt like my family became closer and… I don’t know, we just feel much better here. And one of the many reasons why I’m thankful is I became closer to our relatives on my father’s side.

We choose to not be attached with my mother’s relatives because, to tell you honestly, they’ve caused most of the negativity and stress my nanay experienced when we were living close to them.

Now, it became a tradition that every New Year, along with the fiesta here in Dampalit, we also come together for a family reunion of some sorts. But, for some reason, my cousins Rose (wearing brown), Joan (in yellow) and the rest of them planned, without my knowledge, of our own get-together, without the oldies. *LOL*

It was the night of April 10th. It was the first time, as far as I remember, that I met my cousins Daniel (in white), Rannie (black) and Edgar (white with red striped collar – you’ll see him later). I think the last time they saw me was when I was still a kid! Hahaha. That’s how old they are! :P

Kuya Wendell (in green) was also there. Our other cousins (we’re a huge clan of Ignacios!) weren’t able to join because of busy schedules. We didn’t want to push anyone into coming, especially when we know they might not enjoy ‘cause they’ll be forced to bring their kids with them and they’ll be needing some kind of baby monitor with display while we party/drink away. And, then, there were some who only found out the day after. *LOL* Don’t blame me! I wasn’t the one in charge of the invitations! :P

My cousins brought food with them when they came over. Here are just some of them:

Pancit Canton cooked by Ate Rose

SEAFOODS!!
Nom nom nom nom!

Lechon de Leche imitation – this actually tricked me! I thought ate Rose really brought lechon! LOL

After some catching up during dinner, we turned on the videoke (yes, we have that at home – no need for coins… and we even have our own songbook!), mixed up a cocktail and drank the night away.

By the middle of the drinking session / party, we started discussing about one of my cousins relationship dilemma. We ended up with a serious, but pretty amusing exchange of views.

I really enjoyed their company. As you can see on the photo below, we were laughing our butts off!

Here’s me with my 2 beautiful (it runs in the family, I guess… chos!) cousins Joan and Rose, raising a toast...

I super enjoyed my time with them. I really hope we’ll have more bonding moments like this in the future.

Thank you, ate Rose, Joan, Kuya Wendell, Daniel, Edgar and Rannie for coming! It was fun, fun, fun! Sa uulitin! :)