I really wanted to show you what a local mountain celebration looks like, but the day started with the heavy lifting that makes living up here a challenge.
Before the fun could start, Jessa and I had a mountain of chores. My back was killing me—honestly, my knees and back have been taking a beating from the constant climbing and carrying water containers. But it was a big day because we had to get down to the town for the fiesta preparations. In the Philippines, a fiesta isn't just a party; it’s a massive community event where food, family, and tradition all come together.
While the town was buzzing with the fiesta energy, I was also thinking ahead to our own private celebration. Our second wedding anniversary was just a few days away. My parents back in Norway had sent us some money as a gift. It meant that after all the hard work of the mountain life and the chaos of the fiesta, Jessa and I could actually afford to get away for a few days of total relaxation. We decided to head to Siquijor, a place I’d heard so much about.
Between the vibrant colors of the fiesta, the smoky aroma, and the laughter of Jessa's family, it was a day that perfectly captured the spirit of Cebu. It’s a contrast to my life back in Norway, but I’ve come to appreciate the noise and the crowds during these special times. Even with my aching back, being part of such a deep-rooted tradition made all the daily struggles of mountain living feel worth it. It was a beautiful, chaotic, and delicious lead-up to our anniversary trip, and a reminder of why we call this place home.
