December 25, 2019, Wednesday
I grew up seeing how my parents valued and prepared for Christmas. My brothers also participated by cutting live pine trees, making parol. We always had a Christmas tree with glittery ornaments and simple gifts under the tree, socks hanging on the window with 25 centavo coin and one bar of Serge chocolate. My father also gave away calendars, whole leg of ham, t-shirts, hotdogs, etc. to our neighbors.
I also grew up believing in Santa Claus. At my age right now, it’s no longer about believing. To me, Santa will forever be a symbol of love, hope, dreams, and family togetherness.
For this year’s Merry Christmas family lunch, I was again the host. No plans yet for next year.
Kuya Junior and his family had their own celebration at the house of his eldest son Dr. Ric.
Len prepared the delicious creamed corn which disappeared in a few minutes. Kulang.
Dimple brought turon. I prepared lobster, rib-eye, mac and cheese, etc. including the left-over lasagna, prime rib. Sherwin brought cakes, pastries, etc.
Kuya Romy and family
Kuya Lito and family
We miss our dogs. Oyen bought this for Stella. She’ll have a belated photo shoot when Oyen goes back to Manila.
Len and family
Yen and cousins
This is our 36th Christmas together. We wish one another the gift of love and peace.
