Reminiscing and bringing the memories back allows us to reconnect with our positive experiences from the past. There is a comfy feeling, nostalgia, and a good reminder of how we were shaped on our journey.
When I was young, my parents used to take me to their farm during holidays and weekends. I was six at that time until I graduated from secondary. I still remember how I enjoyed our walks heading to our agricultural land. It was too far and I never regretted if I kept on dogging them. I loved the cool breeze from the mountains, so fresh and the smell of the ground together with the lush green was so relaxing.
As I reminisced about those years, I realized how my parents let me connect with nature the same as they did. I never took it for granted and cherished it forever. My first encounter with real life outside was dearly appreciated.
During this walk, I was thinking about the ways of living by other locals before which are still the source of raising their families nowadays. Upon seeing these coconut shells gathered inside the sacks, it symbolizes hard work and patience of the farmers. Coconut harvesting, husking, and grating required force as this was done by hand. Sweats and more effort were exerted. They persistently did it every day so that something could be served on the table.
I was reminded why my parents let me feel how precious our life is in the province. As we started to immerse ourselves in nature, I let my daughters feel how extremely beautiful to be here. The sun was blazing, however, we didn't feel it due to the huge trees and bamboo that surrounded the wide and open field. A cool breeze was felt, no pollution and everything was so amazing.
Nestled with pride amidst the tranquil place that we have traversed is the hut purely made from indigenous materials. It was built alone, with no other houses nearby. The owner needs privacy and great relaxation here. As we were about to reach the rest house, I was totally in awe upon seeing the beauty of simplicity.
The hut constructed at the elevated portion of this private land is truly amazing. The cogon grass which was used as the roof made it so cool. The bamboo was used as the walling, beam, and flooring. It can stand for a long time as we know the durability of bamboo can last longer. The overlooking view can be seen from a distance and gazing at it made it so wonderful.
My daughters were exhilarated in getting inside. This was their first time stepping into this serene area (except RM, who used to connect with nature) as their world rotates inside their room, with the gadgets as their masters. They have felt the difference, the fresh air, no car noises, and they were able to relish the mesmerizing beauty of nature. At first, they were hesitant but later on they enjoyed our stay.
One precious thing that made our simple stay here incredible, was the moment of eating together. This reminded me again of that moment when we used to eat barehand together with my parents when we visited our farm. Oh, how I missed those days. Now they became memories. At this time, I let my children feel the same thing too, to experience this style of sharing the foods being served using the banana leaves.
This private land was owned by our friend's boss. They were entrusted to take care of it if they were not around. Since it is private, only a few can access it here. With their master's permission, we were able to experience how incredible our feelings were when we were able to spend our weekend in this amazing spot.
Remarkable experiences were felt before we left the area. It was a blissful Sunday, after we attended the mass, I was able to unplug my daughters from their gadgets and got this opportunity to connect with nature. It made my entire day better which can be a good start for weekdays. As they navigated the area, finally my daughters were able to realize the difference if we can be with nature. They were starting to be inspired and motivated to be nature once again.
Thank you so much for your time, may you all have a great weekend too.