The Ilocos Chronicles 2010: Entry #1

Cliche title. But that's what's been on my head all day: thinking of posting blog after blog of my trip to and from and, of course, stay in Ilocos Norte and call them with that title.  That's the plan though.  I really do not know if I can muster enough will power to write again after this one.  I am a ningas kugon, that is why.

Going to Ilocos this summer was in my mind long before I verbally uttered it to my dad two weeks ago.  Lots of changing of mind happened since then. I mentioned it to Mommy's cousin, too.  That's Tito Boy Valido, through facebook chat.  Having informed them, there is no backing out since the questions "when are you going to Laoag" by one or "when are you coming to Laoag" by the other would inevitably crop up.

And so that was what happened last Saturday night.  I told my dad, "I'll be home in Cabanatuan by Monday.  I think I am not going to Ilocos anymore. What do you think?" It was really my way of subtly  saying, "I really do not want to go and endure that 8 hour trip inside a close to freezing bus. Two times!"  And he goes, "I really think you should go and visit."  It's no great wonder.  He's from the place.  And so, of course, are my grandparents.  And I haven't visited Lola since I don't remember exactly when. 

Also this morning as I was preparing to finally submit my final paper for my final subject in MA, out came a message from Tito Boy through facebook.  "Are you already here?"  With that question, I just have to go to Ilocos.

So here I am, counting the last few hours before departure to beloved Ilocos.  There is no sarcasm there.  Believe me, I love the place, I adore the place, I long to see the place.  It's just that, for now, what I need is to sit on a rocking chair in front of the cable tv with the laptop to my right and a good book at my left turning on the aircon if the heat gets to me while trying to muster enough will power to review for compre.  In Cabanatuan, of course, my true home. 

Now all that has become, "Maybe next week."  After the demo, after the enrollment, and after I clean my carrell and sort out my reviewers for the comprehensive exams. 

For the Holy Week, I am off to Ilocos Norte.  Perhaps there, I'll join the celebration at my Uncle Vic's parish, go out with my cousins, eat real Ilocano food, and do visita iglesia. Certainly however, I'll be able to see my Lola Betty again.  

Just keep on reading to find out if I did.