Hey there, sunshine seekers ! 🌻✨ Welcome to 
As I write this,I'm having a realization the boy I used to call my Prince,the one I carried for nine months, isn't a baby anymore.Just as others have said, time flies so fast and here we are celebrating his 10th birthday!.I used to plan ahead of time picking themes, ordering customized cakes and spending hours decorating for his big day.But now,he simply wanted a simple birthday perhaps because he no longer cares for customized cakes or decorations not like he used to be.It's funny how quickly their tastes change as they blossom into young men.
So, instead of a grand party, we decided on a unique adventure a trip to a mangrove forest near us.This place has become quite popular with the locals and is even getting noticed by people from nearby cities.It was the perfect spot for a more laid-back yet incredibly special, celebration.
This isn't your typical party venue and that's what made it so charming. There are no rooms or cottages to rent which adds to its natural, untouched feel. However, they do offer tables tied securely to the mangrove branches for a small fee of ₱100 to ₱150. Don't worry, they make sure no mangroves are harmed in the process, If you're looking for something a bit more private or with more space they also have floating cottages available for rent ranging from ₱1,000 to ₱2,500 depending on how many people you have.
When we arrived it was high tide which meant the sandbar was submerged.This added an extra element of fun! Some of our relatives and friends had to take a short boat ride to get inside the main area of the mangrove with a super affordable fare of just ₱20.It was like an adventure even before we properly started the celebration
One of the most heartwarming moments for me happened while we were getting our things onto the boat. My kids were absolutely loving the water,splashing and giggling.But what really caught my eye was my little boy, the one I used to constantly watch over and care for, now diligently watching out for his younger sister.It was a beautiful reminder of how much he's grown, not just in size but in responsibility and care.It filled my heart with so much pride.
One of the best things about this mangrove spot is that you can bring your own food. We packed a feast! We brought delicious Lumpia and flavorful Pancit for everyone to share. They even have a floating grill where you can cook fresh fish.We definitely took advantage of that, Imagine enjoying freshly grilled fish surrounded by the peaceful beauty of the mangroves,it was truly an experience.
And what's a birthday without cake? This time, we skipped the customized themed cake.My son simply wanted a regular one and we got super lucky! We managed to snag two cakes for the price of one.It was a sweet deal and perfectly suited his simpler birthday wish.
Important Reminders for Your Own Mangrooves Adventure:
Visit on Weekdays:For clearer water and to avoid the crowds weekdays are your best bet. On weekends the place was quite busy.
Leave No Trace:This beautiful place is free for everyone to enjoy so let's keep it that way. Please,whatever you bring in please take it out. Leave no trash behind.
Mind the Mangroves:The tourism department doesn't allow hanging hammocks on the mangrove branches as it can damage them. However,you can hang small ones for kids only being extra careful not to harm the branches.
Sun Protection is Key:Even though the dense branches and leaves of the mangroves offer some shade it is always wise to bring and apply sunscreen.Better safe than sorry when it comes to sun exposure
Observe Kids at All Times:While iti s a great place for kids to enjoy the water always keep a close eye on them especially during high tide when the sand was submerged it might dangerous for them.
Stay Hydrated: With all the fun and excitement always remember that you need to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated throughout your visit.
This birthday celebration is another wonderful reminder for us that the simplest moments are the most treasured and memorable seeing my son happy and surrounded by loved ones with the beauty of nature was truly special.It's not about how big the decorations or the themed cake but it is about the connection,growth and the joy of being together.
What's your favorite way to celebrate a milestone birthday? Share your thoughts below thank you and God Bless you all.