Going Home to Iloilo

I never really lived in Iloilo but I consider it my home. As a child my mama, sister and I would go there to visit mama's parents, siblings and relatives. We'd spend some days in the city, and some days in the town of Concepcion.

This is a beautiful old house we've been seeing since we were young.  

I feel so blessed to have experienced a big house with a big lot and going out without worry and care. Everybody knew everyone. We were known as Marietta's great grand children, Nanny's grand children and Val's children. They were loved and so we were too, most especially the eldest who in my generation happens to be my sister.

My cousin Nina and I would go to the market to buy stationary and eat batchoy. My childhood was good :)

Now, we only go back when there's something we need to do. Sadly, the reason for the past couple of years is because someone has died. This year, a good family friend, Lola Imay. Lola Imay was actually just two years older than my mom, but because she was friends with my Lola too, she'd tell us to call her Lola. 

 Back in the 1980's it would take us four (4) to six (6) hours of bumpy and dusty road to get to the town of Concepcion from the city by car. Now, it's just two (2) hours of good road.

Lola Imay was a good family friend. She was a teacher until she had her first stroke back in the 1990's. 

This is what we used to call the College of Fisheries.  

Took pictures while I was there. Such a lovely place - your childhood place.

Our Tita Lani's food can make you eat even when you're already full. This is as fresh as it can get. Straight from the sea a couple of steps away.

Going home and spending time with your family and your real friends keeps you grounded - Jennifer Ellison