Unlike last year, my summer this year was not as ‘grandiose’ so to speak, although of course it was made special by little trips with family and friends to different places.
april 29 (teambuilding with nsoll core team)
Derrick, Sen, Reg, Tess, Edna, Yen and I stayed overnight at this cozy house for our teambuilding. We barely had time to tour Tagaytay for our leisure, and the time for the program itself was not enough. But the following day, before going home, we had lunch at the Greek Tavern (oh dear, I hope I didn't mix it up with another resto!), where the owner (whose name skips me right now..) was very down-to-earth to the point of valet-parking your car for you (because, as he said, "I know my parking more.")
may 4-5 (ipa outing)
This year, we invited some friends from other offices to join us, and it was a better decision because we had more fun! Besides, it was a birthday celebration for five of them! We rented a private cottage at La Vista Pansol with its own small pool at the back. We had night swimming in the "Bukal," and the following day, we toured the resort's other facilities, which include a mini-zoo and native gazebos.
may 14 (ppcrv volunteer)
I was convinced by a friend to volunteer as ppcrv watcher in the elections. In our voting area, my precinct was the last as in literally the last one to finish in canvassing! I went home past 12 midnight, but I take my hats off to the young volunteers from the parish who stayed until the COCs were taken to the city hall. I sure hope many of the voting population exercised their right. It proved to be an election that was a far cry from the traditional politics the country has been experiencing in the past.
may 24 (family summer outing)
Since my dad had an operation, and my nephews were circumcised (haha :), we decided not to go very far for our summer outing. La Mesa ecopark was near and cheap and a nice alternative, with special rates for Quezon City residents and students. It is absolutely lovely, truly a refreshing break. Of course Randy joined us again as he does every summer outing that we have. There was swimming, fishing, biking, sightseeing of flower terraces, orchidarium, and the glorious La Mesa dam itself. One whole day was not enough, but we had to leave because the park closes at 5pm, and the rain started pouring at 4pm. We went straight to Trinoma, where we had dinner.
Maybe this summer really taught me that I need not go far to enjoy the company of family and friends. We can make the most out of every minute we spend with one another. (Besides, we can save a lot on transportation and travel time!) :) I hope your summer was fun. too!