It’s been more than three months since the quarantine started here in the Philippines and it’s also the longest time I’ve been away from home. Aside from having experienced homesickness for the first time, this pandemic and quarantine has brought up so many realizations as well.

Being away from home, made me realize that there are so many things I took for granted. And I feel really blessed that I still have the chance to make-up for those things once the quarantine restrictions loosen up.

Before going home to Laguna, I made sure to drop by my Nanay Lydia’s – it’s also her 75th birthday which I really can’t miss! Ever since we were young, our family makes an effort to go to Manila from Laguna to celebrate this special day with her together with my cousins.

This year, it’s just me since I’m the only one here in Manila and travel is still restricted. It was still a happy day for the birthday girl as she was showered with warm wishes through video calls and online greetings.

Going home to Laguna was still a struggle since there’s still no public transport available so I decided to try carpooling. The fare was more than five times the regular bus fare but there really is no other choice. Stefan suggested to drive me to Laguna but I’ve read somewhere that there’s a random ID check at checkpoints where drivers and passengers are required to show proof that they’re from from Laguna so we didn’t risk it – he just dropped me off at the carpool pickup point.

The ride home was smooth – there’s only one passenger per row inside the van and everyone is still required to wear masks. Long story short, I got home safely (and virus free!) Aside from my parents, what really made me homesick is missing my dogs. And we’re finally reunited! I know they missed me so much as well.

After doing a 2-week quarantine, I also got to visit my Nana! She turned 93 last May and due to her age, her memory is not as sharp anymore and she’s having trouble remembering names. However, when she saw me, she remembered me clearly and was really happy she doesn’t want me to go. She even said “isasama kita sa America isang buwan tayo dun” (come with me to America, let’s stay there for a month) and I don’t even know why 😅

I’m really happy I got to go home! Right now, I’m really trying my best to be a good daughter by helping my parents as much as I can in house chores, bonding with them over meals (and milk tea), and just being present.

I’m just really grateful that we are all healthy and I got to spend more time with them this quarantine. I hope you are all safe as well! Til’ my next blog post,