Happy 17th Anniversary

Several adventures and gatherings took place over the last few months. Most of them were filled with overwhelming fun and excitement. On the other hand, there were also isolated cases of desolation and misunderstanding, which lead for some to nearly partway. Like what one of us has mentioned, "not everyday is a holiday". Perhaps, this is a downside of a growing group. Whatever has happened, it is great to know that the original members of the so-called "core group (Mga U)" are still intact. I'm certain that full reconciliation will arise soon; bridging the gap and revitalizing a once warm bond.

Moving forward, 4 of us decided to have an exclusive out of town trip last weekend. Skyy and Trix said that they are missing much our climb in Tarak Ridge last May. It was one of the memorable hikes that we had. One which was filled of laughter and meaningful conversation.

Tarak Ridge May 13-14, 2017

It was Skyy who suggested to have a beach getaway at Lobo, Batangas. We planned to hit a dayhike in nearby mountains (Ahit, Naguiling and Banoi), but the morning weather discouraged us. Good thing that we didn't proceed. Few days after our trip, I learned that a military encounter occurred during that time. We went to Lawas Seaside Resort.
Lawas Seaside Resort

The place is located in a secluded part of Brgy. Olo-olo. Though not as beautiful compared to other prominent beaches of Batangas, the absence of usual crowd made the ambiance peaceful and unwinding. We were the only visitors that day. It was a weekend indulged in foods, drinks and music. We also had several discussions pertaining to the good and not so pleasant experiences; some people we've climbed with; future places to visit with our other Ugatan friends; and other things under the sun. As we Look back to those moments and things: the "mossy forest" at Tarak Ridge, the beach getaway at Alibijaban and Borawan, the group chats, the walk-out scene after the climb in Masaraga and the failed plan before riding the bus, the playful thoughts and acts of the great persuader, the tangera queen, and other similar matters, laughter filled the air.

Picture upon arrival

Cheers

Marinated Chicken, Fish, Sinampalukan, and Pasta

Preparing Lunch

Lunch Time

Great place to rest

Other parts of the place

Mama Trix preparing her signature meal dynamite (Jalapeño stuffed with cheese and beef wrapped in lumpia wrapper)

Goddess Skyy preparing her GoPro

Afternoon Scene

Skyy said that her friend will follow and already on "his" way; and added, that we will be very pleased in meeting "him". While waiting for this person, Skyy and I explored the shoreline.

The Shoreline of Lawas during low tide

A beach composed of rocks and pebbles....no sunset!

On the Rocks!

Whosoever is delighted in solitude is either a wild beast or a God - Aristotle

Fresh and salt water meet

It was the Rescuer!

We were surprised and delighted to see our guest. It was Luisa the Rescuer. She instructed Skyy to remain silent about her arrival. Mission Complete: Together Again!

The night is young!

Day 2

Waiting for the sunrise

3 chefs preparing breakfast

Other photos taken while waiting for the breakfast

We had our breakfast at the raft

Dried fish, Sayote and fried rice

Natakot si trix sa balsa ayun biglang takbo palayo. Maghuhugas lang daw siya

Last Group Shot

At the end, the gathering was not only fun but also fruitful. "Once an ugatan; always an ugatan" (lolx :P)

“If there ever comes a day when we can't be together, keep me in your heart. I'll stay there forever.” - Winnie the Pooh (Pang asar quote kapag di sasama sa lakaran)

Actual Itinerary
September 23, 2017 (4:00 AM): Departure Buendia To Batangas
September 24, 2017 (5:30 PM): Arrival Greenfield Shaw

Worth Remembering (Moments and Thoughts to Look Back)
- Sayang by Claire De La Fuente
- Di tayo bate - Paulo at the group chat
- The X of Jerico Tabuzo (gisado ni Tita Skyy.) :P
- Plans to have an Indochina Tour
- Next time isama natin si Jhing
- Dapat talaga tatalikod pa ko noon eh, di ko na nagawa sumakay na agad ako ng bus - Trix
- Maya maya uulitin mo rin yang chapter na binabasa mo - Skyy
- Chismoso! - Jerico
- Plok Plok
- Teka maghuhugas muna ako - Trix
- Nakakatakot yung CR - Me
- Luisa entered the male comfort room (talagang rescuer nga)
- Stories regarding the aftermath of Conquer Run (Itabi niyo nasusuka ako, sabay takbo - Trix)
- Utot Series hanggang uwian sa greenfield

Going There
1. From Buendia, there are available bus going to Batangas Grand Terminal
2. Ride a jeep going to Balagtasan drop off: Kumintang
3. From Kumintang ride a tricycle to the jeepney terminal going to Lobo Batangas
4. Upon reaching Lobo Batangas, take another tricycle to Brgy. Olo-Olo (Lawas Seaside Resort)

Photo Credit: Skyy and Trix