In previous years, I would spend Earth Hour in our driveway with eyes aimed on the moon while humming aimlessly the tune of Dancing in the Moonlight. This year, I spent Earth Hour a notch higher.
Earth Weekend Getaway would more likely be an appropriate name for the bonding activities the family and I did amidst the greens that continually thrive in Villa Escudero.
Being there had revived my dream of owning my little piece of land in a countryside someday. Definitely not vast like Villa Escudero (the whole property covers 3 towns – San Pablo, Tiaong and Quezon), but rather quaint in size and easy to manage. I did imagine and dream too much while on this getaway. For one moment, I wished that by some chance I would be lucky enough to meet an Escudero so I could quickly ask a couple of questions. I did (at the cultural show), but not a single question came through. (Read: Shy).
I have long planned to pay Villa Escudero a visit. It was my top choice for the Pharmacy’s Teambuilding last year because of its countless coconut trees. I planned of mounting a race that involved climbing a coconut tree. I'm sure everyone would have turned their backs on me if this had pushed through. So we landed here.
Despite my frequent attempts and having in fact taken a one day Viaje Del Sol tour with friends a few years back (Villa Escudero is listed as part of this tour), I would often find myself elsewhere. But this time, there is absolutely no way I would have skipped this chance. It was J. Bond’s cousin who planned and organized our weekend getaway from start to finish.
Villa Escudero houses a 2-level museum which displays quite an array of collected historical artifacts. I won’t get into details. I assume most of you have seen the place way before I did. But I was ecstatic with particularly two displays: the beads of centuries ago and original tambourine necklaces in various styles. How I wish museums would lift their strict rule on no picture taking. Though images of the antique beads and tambourine necklaces are pretty much still safe and saved in my head, I know one day I’ll forget.
We had fun playing super heroes. Why ride a plane if we could fly. I’m dreaming.
J. Bond played soldier. I love how he dreams too .
While little girls played angels.
Hanging loose on a bus.
Then a jeepney ride.
Back to basic mode of transportation named Luningning, the carabao.
Dining by the falls.
Beautiful discoveries by the Church.
Fickle weather was by our side. A cycle of rain and shine.
Fickle weather was by our side. A cycle of rain and shine.
The cottage colors in and out were inspiring.
Lovely and peaceful view of the lake.
J. Bond, a cousin, and nieces paddling along the lake on bamboo rafts.
With no television, radio, nor wifi connection, we bonded over endless stories while listening to serenades.
Perhaps, you and I should seriously consider celebrating Earth Hour this way. No gadgets, No lights, With family, and Around NATURE...truly meaningful.
*To know more about Villa Escudero, click here.
*To know more about Villa Escudero, click here.
