Saying Goodbye

The Velez cousins at St. Peter's Cathedral after saying goodbye to Tito Rene.


The relatives and friends of Tita Nenen also came to say goodbye to Tito Rene.

Miguel and EJ at Sonya's Garden

It was back in the mid-90s when Miguel and EJ first met up with each other. Renelle, Edgar and EJ had made a trip to the Philippines and had lunch at our home.

Fast forward to 2008 and EJ and Miguel meet up again. Now, a few pounds heavier and inches taller. Miguel is now in first year high school and EJ has probably given up collecting trains and now plays soccer? Or maybe, baseball?

Here are pictures as they goof and play around in Sonya’s Garden, where the cousins and Tita Nenen and my mom shared a sumptuous lunch.

Hidden among the hills past Tagaytay, Sonya’s Garden gives rest and quiet to many tired and hardworking professionals (like Chief and I) to enjoy the garden and the food… and the open space.

For many balikbayan families, Sonya’s Garden is a memorable place to visit and experience the cuisine of organically grown vegetables and ingredients, all served fresh everyday. Plus, bottomless dalandan juice and turon (my favorite)

While Miguel and EJ would have probably preferred McChicken... for now, they will share pasta and salad with us, Renelle, Benjamin, Patrick, Violet, Chief and I!