Hello 2009!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Here is 2009 - a brand new year of opportunities and adventures!  :D

Yesterday, I had New Years Eve lunch with two of my Colleagues, Minnie and Dilan, at Drouls.  Minnie treated Dilan and I.  I had my regular (and my favourite), chicken and mushroom risotto with extra mushrooms.  They make THE BEST chicken and mushroom risotto.  We also had some champagne with ojay to toast. :)

New Years Eve was spent at Tita Thelma and Tito 'Mado's place as per tradition.  As usual, we stuffed our faces with the yummy food.  All family members and relatives were present (except for my hubby) as well as extended relatives and friends.

The 10-second countdown for the New Year proceeded and we made as much noise as we can while kissing and hugging family members who we bumped into.

More food was served at midnight - pan de sal, ham, homemade cheese pimiento, Filipino ice cream, etc.  Part of dessert which made an impact:

Hersheys Kisses are not easily available here in Australia so we're all happy when we get a chance to eat this yummy chocolate. :)

New Years Day lunch (and dinner) at Tita Leli and Tito Mark's place.

As promised, I made my Honey Joys.  It was good to see that everyone enjoyed them.  :)

It was a nice day today, lots of eating and just hanging out.  It was quite funny coz us cousins looked like sardines in the large lounge room.

The only sad thing was that we had to say "see ya later" to Tito Rene, Tita Gina, and Cholo as they are heading back to Manila tonight.  We'll go see them off at the airport later this evening.

Overall, quite a relaxing first day of the year.  :)