Gathering

If there’s one good thing of being an expat, or staying overseas, its having the chance to meet fellow expats in pure and fun-filled gatherings. These gatherings or meet-ups are opportunities of reliving the Filipino atmosphere in another country, and in our case, its in Japan. Of course, we all miss our country of origin and these events, though short and temporary, lessen the degree of homesickness.

Two Sundays ago, we went to Tokuma Falls, a manmade falls, in Yamanashi area. This gathering was finally realized after a month-long invitation handed by Timog Forum moderators and members. Their blackmail and coercion paid off. LOL! More or less 30 heads showed up.

Before I talk about the gathering, allow me first to share how cool it was to drive along Japanese expressway. It was my first here in Japan. It took 2-3 hours before reaching Ate Maki’s ever-welcoming abode. Its not that I’m slow, the place is just too far. Haha! Quoting Kuya Ben, Cruising at 110.5km/h on Tomei Expressway outbound to Yamanashi Ken. LOL!

Others were already there when we arrived and had their own spots on where to curl. Ten of us decided to stay overnight. Brought by excitement, all of us slept early but was interrupted by a mysterious phone call at around 0300H. I thought it was a ghost. Ha ha!

Just as the sun started showing its rays, one by one we vacated our cribs, fell in line to take a shower just like in prison. LOL! The group left the place and headed to the venue. There, Tokuma Falls was already vocalizing. Each one of us had a role but I won’t be too specific on this matter since it will lengthen this post. I wholeheartedly believe that every effort was appreciated by every one present. Even the man-made falls continued her rhythmic splashes serving as musical background. More TF members arrived, and it meant an obligatory introduce yourself or be sorry moment. Perhaps, in the coming EBs, we can provide name tags. Ha ha!

Aside from the traditional “lamon”, activity such as photoshoot of amateur yet professional-like models took place. Never ending shoots of posed and candid moments. It was great to know each other personally other than the usernames.

I’ll let the photos summarize the event.

a chorus of laughs
sways the greens, invites the breeze
the power of thanks

It ended on a right note with everybody wet as early morning leaves. Thanks to the waterfalls from heaven. Anyway, thanks to the organizers and sponsors for this gathering. Sarap ulitin. I hope another EB will materialize as soon as possible. Maybe before I go to Iran. Ha ha! Just kidding!

Domo Arigatou!

/totomai
08/27/08