Friendsgiving

From the usual Christmas parties my college mates and I hold, we have decided to go for something more fitting, intimate (but still wild and fun) and religion-considerate this time – FRIENDSGIVING.

Actually, there wasn’t much of a difference. It only partly changed the vibe of the party by putting the real focus on the F.R.I.E.N.D.S at that moment, but the faces and fun were the same.

We were more in attendance compared last year. Hence, we were out of control. Loud voices overpowered and mixed with other loud voices, and the hosts could barely do anything to calm everyone down for the games. Voices would lower down for a few seconds then full chaos again. It rained gifts and prizes as well. That feeling of receiving a gift would never ever get old. Each was also awarded special recognitions for the eccentricity that made each lovable and despicable at the same time.

Above all the loudness, though, was this feeling of intimacy. Maybe we just really missed each other. I mean, we hadn’t seen each other’s faces in a long time. We had so much to share that we were all so restless and hyperactive. We didn’t know where to begin, which to talk about first, how to compress all our stories and laughter. And we only had the night for everything because this is the only time of the year we get to be this complete.

I guess it was also the intimacy of the night that gave me the courage to finally share a very important part of my happy life right now – the boyfriend. So there were actual and “almost” tears that were totally unexpected. Dear friends were that affected. I was moved. I was not prepared for the overflow of love and support from them. Their happiness was all so genuine. Beyond grateful for these friends!

To Jerome and Kreng, thank you so much for putting all this together. All your sweat and convincing powers and harsh words paid off. *wink-wink You guys did it! Thank you for organizing all of this year’s special events. A for Effort!

Special thanks are also in order for the following people’s generosity: Vyna for the cake (From Dubai with love! We hope to have you here next year), Purita for the cute knives (Seriously, why a knife? Hahaha) and Marfi for her special gifts (Unique gifts for each, big time! You really know what we like)!

At the end of the day, we’re all just kids trying to have fun. Because at this point in time when every chance at letting loose and letting our hair down is not as easy to get as it used to, spontaneous moments like this night are a treasured gift we get to truly enjoy when we are with the people who are just as crazy as us.

To quote my friend Jusz:

“Here's to the nights that turned into mornings with the friends that turned into family. ‪#‎Friendsgiving2014”

Enough said.

Let’s open the year by spending it with the people we love most.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, everyone!!!

(Late post)

*Big thanks to Monica Mangalino, Paul Maunahan and Antoniette Pulutan for the lovely photos!