NIVA International School Heritage Day 2013

Can't resist not sharing these photos of the recently held Heritage Day at Niva International School where my sister works. This year the kindergartners had joint representation of the state of Hawaii, USA. The little ones looked so adorable in their costumes.

Merit making on the occasion of the 18th anniversary of St James Hotel

A praying staff

St James Hotel has been operating for 18 years! The owner, his family  and the staff gathered together to celebrate  its  anniversary yesterday. The whole day celebration kicked off with merit making. They gave food to the monks and made food offerings to the spirit.

Philippine Trip - Mommy's Birthday

Birthday cupcakes and cake I made for Mommy

The main reason of my trip to Philippines last Christmas was to attend Mom's birthday celebrations. Her birthday is the day before Christmas and it is an opportune time to share her blessings to others. Every year, she gives away 5 kilograms of rice to widows and widowers in the church and her community.

Originally, we planned to have her gathering at a park on a hill.  We changed it the last minute because most of her guests were older and were too weak to hike. Mom's favorite color is purple so my sister decorated the venue with purple and white balloons. I made cupcakes and cake frosted with purple butter cream.  Here are the highlights of her birthday gathering.