A December of Memories
May 26, 2023 • Volume III is out now!
A December of Memories
Lifestyle and Interests • December 30
Written by Benj Mari Gulla
For the first time in seven years, an aunt I was very close with was finally able to return to the Philippines to take a vacation with her family and I in the country. I won’t write about all of the details, however, I will be sharing the highlights of our time together here.
On the 25th of December, we visited the Martessem Mountain Resort located in Tanay, Rizal. There, we were getting chills all over as we walked around the place. We didn’t expect it to be as cold as it was, but it was a refreshing change from the city heat. We left my dad and younger brother off at the playground, and the rest of us left to get coffee. After we received our order, we went to feed the ducks in the pond. Shortly after, we gathered everyone back at the van and headed home.
The day after, on the 26th, we packed our things and embarked on a long road trip to La Union. We stayed for a total of three days and two nights, at an inn. The inn was located right next to the beautiful La Union beach. The shore was covered in fine ivory sand, with the waters colored a gorgeous blue. It made for some great pictures and atmosphere, and of course, it was also fun going for a swim there.
Once our stay at the inn was over, we went to go grape picking. It was around 5 PM when we arrived at the place, so I was able to take some sweet sunset shots. It was fascinating to see how the grapes were grown. It was almost like a greenhouse, but covered all over with grape vines, presenting a more mystical aesthetic.
We had our last trip together on the 15th of January, when we went to eat at the Coffee Rush Antipolo buffet. They offered a sizable selection of food we could choose from, ranging from side dishes, main courses, and desserts. A band was also called to play live that evening, so we were passionately serenaded by the group as we ate. After we were all full, we returned home full and ready to head to bed. That marks the last memory we made together before her departure.