Family gets together in Manila - Day 1

Took the 10:30 PAL flight from Iloilo to Manila this morning. Dani was in the most pleasant of moods. So much different from the last time we travelled. She was eager to go on the plane and was trying to be in her most independent self. She wanted to hold the tickets, handed it over to be stamped, greeted some of Bryan's cousins courteously, sat on her own at JD while we waited for boarding.

On the plane she was so cheerful and calm. The peanuts kept her busy, finishing off 3 packs! Plus another pack of bread sticks! She didn't even notice the pressure on her ears or that we were turning or landing. It was like a dream come true! Wish this is how she would be every time we travel! 

We landed a bit late and Joey, Vicky and Liam were already checked in at the Fairmont Hotel in Makati. It was our first visit and Joey is already a member here. Situated right across Landmark and walking distance from Greenbelt 3, it so far has exceeded our expectations. 

We all decided to have lunch at Peking Garden in Greenbelt 5. Got lost for about half an hour. Finally sat down for luch at around 2. 

This was the main event:

Dania and Liam, as always were inseperable. Its been months since they've last seen each other. 

Lunch was more than enough. A nap afterwards was just what we all needed. Dani was out in no time.

Dinner was at Yakimix in Greenbelt 3. Another binge meal for us. But its fun to be around family. This is our first trip together as a family. A far cry from the days when it was just me and Joey. Definitely never was this noisy. 

The highlight of the day, I think, was when Dani and Liam had some bath tub time. Dani still thinks shes ina swimming pool so this made her day. Seeing them together splashing around and bubbles all over, its good to be a kid. Small things are magnified a hundred times over. These are moment I remember having myself with Pam and the other cousins. You have to wonder about the power of memories. Like how far back can it actually go and hols on to those moment for the rest of your life? 

What a night! Its been more than I could have hoped. Thank you, Lord for family and the chance to have these moments. Tomorrow is a big day. Lifting it up for your glory, Oh God. 

Good night!