28 May 2010

As early as 8AM, aunt Gayang and her son-in-law Albert were already ready to pick us up. Aunt Jo decided to not come with us because her knees has been aching after she fell from the couch while fixing their curtains. Riding the tricycle, we went to the port in Pilar, where we waited for the boat that would take us to Siapar. The waters weren't clean because of the houses near the sea and the fish pens from not so far away, but it didn't hinder the kids to play in the water. Of course, I took the time to take pictures of them, but somehow it made the kids concious of what they are doing especially when my cousin Dang broadcasted to the adults in the port that I have a travel blog and I am taking pictures for my articles. Pfft.

The boat ride to Siapar wasn't that long, but I was a bit afraid of the whole ride because the boat was quite small. Since my cousin Dang and I are both on the heavy side, it was a bit difficult how to balance ourselves. With God's guidance, we arrived safe.

Siapar is a barangay in the neighboring town of Anda. One of aunt Gayang's son lives there with his family, and every now and then she would visit them. After the hurdle of the boat ride, I was faced with another hurdle - going up the mountain. The house was located on the mountain top, and although I can manage an uphill climb, I had a hard time stepping on the rocky soil. And if it wasn't difficult enough, I was scared to go down. I certainly didn't want to take the wrong step that would instantly take me down. I am not afraid to get injured, I was afraid that people will laugh at me should I slip, and that would remain as a story everyone will never forget. Good thing I was able to carry myself until we reach the base of the mountain.

Using the boat owned by aunt Gayang, we went to this island somewhere. Armed with fresh seafoods for lunch, we stayed there until our skins could handle. It was a great place, but the sun was just too bright! The waters near the island was cold and clear, and I just love dipping my toes and legs in the water. Aunt Gayang's daughter-in-law was telling me time and time again to tell them where I want to go - for pictures' sake. Somehow they knew I was going to their place to take pictures, and they were ready to handle my requests. Problem was, I was a complete stranger in the area and I don't know where they could take me. I just told them that I was okay being in this area, and I was able to capture enough pictures already.

We ate lunch there - we had squid adobo, fried fish, and a ton of oysters. I only had the squid and the fish because I don't really eat oysters. After lunch, some of them check the sea bed for sea shells, and they were able to collect a lot. We took home some of the shells and ate them for dinner, which was so delicious! Problem was, cousin Dang didn't soak the shells in water first so our dinner had a lot of sand. :)

I was thankful for the hospitality I was receiving... I love being a travel blogger!

*** Jenn ***