Luis & Via in the Philippines

New Year's Eve, like Christmas Eve, was another restful day. Again, we concentrated on preparing for the celebrations that night. But since it only involved picking up food from Rustan's, Mom and Dad gave me and Luis a chance to go souvenir shopping at Tesoro's, Balikbayan Handicrafts, Greenbelt Mall, The Landmark, and SM Makati. We managed to complete almost all of our souvenir shopping, focusing on handicrafts out of materials uniquely Filipino, such as cutlery and arnis sticks out of kamagong (or Mabolo wood) and bowls and plates made out of Mt. Pinatubo ash. We almost bought furniture, too, because Luis loved the kamagong tables and chairs. They were relatively cheap compared to furniture here, but the shipping costs may have made it more expensive. So we decided to make that decision on our next visit.

After souvenir shopping, we picked up our food for our mini New Year's Eve party. Then we crashed at home for a little bit. I introduced Luis to the blood, guts and gore always shown on Philippine TV every New Year's Eve to dissuade people from recklessly lighting up fireworks or shooting guns in the air. They often feature hospital scenes without censorship of open gashes, flowing blood, and missing fingers.

As what's become tradition for our family, we celebrated New Year's Eve at the rooftop of our condominium. We headed up 30 minutes before midnight, with our hors d'œuvres and wine in tow. Even that early, fireworks can be seen 360 degrees around our building. Luis was in awe at the number of fireworks a la Independence Day all around. We tried taking pictures and videos, but without a proper tripod, the effort was all for naught. So we decided to just enjoy the view, the food, and the company.

We happily greeted the New Year with hugs and kisses all around!!! Hope your New Year celebration was equally spectacular!