It has been 2 years since I moved back to the Philippines for good. 

If I were to ask my 2015 self, I would have imagined that by now I am well acclimated to my life here. That I have embraced every flaw and idiosyncrasies of my beloved country with unconditional acceptance and unwavering tolerance.   

Yet, the last thing I wrote was a long paged account of bad customer service.  I decided not to publish it.

For the simple reason that I can't expect others to change for me,  nor blame things or people that are beyond my control.  

When I attended a meditation course many many years ago, we, along with my siblings were invited to sing this song in public.  With my sister, Allu playing the guitar, we used to imagine we were the Von Trapps. Oh, how I miss them!

It was written and composed by one of the members of this meditation center.  I wish I knew his or her name so I could acknowledge the credits here. 

This song changed my life. Literally, changed my life. 

I clung to a man as we rode on the motorcycle.  Sun streamed on the edges of every foliage that left them glowing in amber.  The wind brought a distinct scent. The tarmac road bent, leading to a sharp curve.  There's a growing gentle chanting of cicadas and my instinct, in all its clarity, knew this is home. 

This was a recurring dream from my childhood that made me travel the world.

Cafe Cebuano takes "chilling overlooking the beach" to a whole new level. Lose yourself, lounge on a rattan chair and soak up on the shore-side view of Pescador Island in Moalboal, Cebu. Sip your favorite choice of beverage. One fresh coconut, please.  Ah! Life is sweet!