My 2017: Welcoming the new year - Food,Family and Lights

In the Philippines, we welcome the new year just like most of the countries. Fireworks, good food, family reunion and noise. I am not sure if the tradition of having 12 fruits in the table is also a tradition to other countries. My mother told me that this represents the 12 fruitful months of the incoming year.

On the table, we had Roasted Chicken, Carbonara, Pancit Malabon, French Fries, Hash Brown, Dynamite (green chili and cheese wrapped in lumpia wrapper), Hotdogs, Floating Island, Cassava Flan, Bibingka, Beer and cake.

These are the usual things we do. But this year, I added a few touches. I asked if we can wear the same color of shirt and they decided to wear red. I also rented a Karaoke to keep the energy high.

We are not into loud fireworks because it is dangerous since there are a few kids in our family. So we do what my late father always do, give the kids a horn and light some luces (Sparkles). They say noise pushes the bad spirit away and the light lights the house for the entire year.

So after the noise and the dinner it's time for the teenager's favorite. The drinking sessions...

And they have the left overs as finger foods.

The night ended up well. No one was hurt.

But just the next day. A friend passed away because of Leukemia. Everyone's happiness and excitement was turned into tears and sorrow.

All the pain and suffering are now gone. Rest in Peace Larry Salonga.