While many people dream of living in the bigger city, I often have second thoughts because I know, it's a lot more fun in the province.
It's always different to wake up in the morning with the noise of the chickens. They're all over the lawn, scratching the ground, and picking worms and grass. Aside from providing us eggs for breakfast, they are cute companions. As the sun is setting down, they get busy going on the tree's branches or their own coop.
The food are also exceptional. I am proud to have been born in Ilocos province because Ilocano cuisines are quite exceptional.
You could also choose between going to the mountains or nearby the sea, both of which are close to your reach. As for me, I like to watch the sun set, have a good drink, and let go of the heavy emotions, especially if the waves are calm.
Growing up, I watched the mango trees nearby get sprayed, bear flowers until the mangoes come out, harvesting, then storing the mangoes in the rice storage. I love this fruit - all of its varieties.
Since there are many industrious and generous growers in the province, we often receive various gifts from our friends like these chili which seems rare for me because I'm used to the small chili labuyo we had at our backyard. They also give us pure honey, rambutans, and Iloco vinegar.
Another cute thing? The ducks. I've always been delighted with them because when I was younger, my grandma had lots of ducks and geese. It's cute - how they walk, lay tons of eggs, and in just a split of a second, the duckling will be out there walking around, following their mom.
We have mulberry and lemon at home. That one was the first lemon I got to pick though I don't think there'll be a second time because It's hard to handle the caterpillars that destroy my plant. The mulberry is very healthy but I don't eat it. I don't like the taste. However, I'm growing it because many who visits our house like it.
Yep, it's fun living in the province. Only a few busy streets, no loud trains, no skyscrapers, but closer to nature - where life is. I just love that when it rains, I can smell it. I hover over the window and watch the plants dance with every drop. I see life and hope.
Darian.
All pictures are mine.