my ilocos retreat

it was a retreat from work and life in the city -- the "rat race" so to speak. it was a necessary break for me. my soul was just raring to go home. home -- how on earth could one simple word evoke so many memories of feelings and tastes and smells? i will never know. my good friend jules, who i saw a few days after i got back from ilocos, mentioned that i was looking more rested and radiant (all right he didn't actually say radiant but it was implied). well, it's because a - i had fun with my nephews and nieces, b - i enjoyed catching up with my siblings and cousins, and c - the weather was just fabulous! that and i'm using this new soap and facial wash that brings out the shine (not oil) in me.

of course my holiday was filled with bingeing on my favorite -- chinese bibingka made from rice flour, coconut oil, and sweet peanut paste -- yumm. my sister remembered i looove them and she bought me a few from the market. too bad i didn't take a photo -- i was too busy stuffing my face. it was a never ending march of parties and get togethers and loads of laughter and fun and more chinese bibingka! see for yourself...no tables groaning with food though.

the kids having a blast bathing outdoors by the well.