39 and counting...

This year I had the fortunate experience of tasting my mom's birthday pancit that she cooked for me! It tasted exactly as I remembered. I am elated that after 11 long years I was finally able to spend my birthday with her. And it was well worth the wait.

She arrived in the UK in August 2011 together with my Aunt (her youngest sister), my cousin (my Aunt's daughter) and my only sister. It was a good time for them to arrive - weather wise as it was so warm last August that you'd think you're still in the Philippines! I was ready with my camera at the airport for a welcome shoot but as I saw them coming out they all looked drained and exhausted. It was past 11 at night and the 17-hour long journey took it's toll.

I was over the moon to see them all, especially mom. I thought she looked a bit older and seemed to have lost weight (which isn't good as she's only 8 stone!). The last time I saw her was April 2009. This was her first time travelling outside Asia. I will be very busy to give them the tour in the four weeks that would follow and I'll be cherishing each day that will pass...