Talaba, Tahong at Talong (Oysters, mussels and eggplants)

Day two of my homecoming and I had special cravings: talaba, tahong at talong - oysters, mussels and eggplants. So, on our way to my siblings' farm in the town of Amadeo, Cavite, we passed by the place where they harvest and sell fresh oysters and mussels. For the equivalent of a little over $3, my brother-in-law, Cesar, purchased a bucket-full of each shellfish.

We arrived at the farm and the first things that welcomed us were the coffee beans in two different stages of drying in the middle of the paved drive-way. I looked around and marveled at the improvements they have done since I last visited 3 years ago. They have added a beautiful grotto, the lawns and the landscaping were resort-like, and the different species of orchids were in bloom.

They had tables and chairs set up under the new white trellis and Cesar had ordered for young coconuts to be picked so we could drink the coconut water and eat the young coconut flesh - which were sweet and delicious.

Before I knew it, a familiar scene was before me - my two older sisters preparing meals in the kitchen - while I sat and watched them. It's just like the old times in our old house. The kitchen was for my parents who both loved to cooked, and for my sisters - Ate Ellie, Ate Lodi and Gigi. I never really spent a lot of time there - except to taste their dishes and to eat. That's the part that I loved.

Soon enough, the help from their other farm arrived with a variety of other fresh vegetables and fruits and the preparation for our small feast continued with broiled talong (eggplant) pork belly, rice wrapped in banana leaves and condiments to go with the rest of the dishes.

It was not long before all of us savored the food everyone but me had meticulously prepared - and I can't help but be thankful for the gift of family. I am here to get in touch with myself again - and with those that I love. I am here to be a little sister again - to be pampared by the two women who have, for the most part of my life, taken care of me.

Talaba, tahong and talong - and the love of my family. What more could I ask for?