On the twelfth of July, I came home to a fire.

A big part of the place we live was cane. A feeble imitation of bamboo, it’s invasive and it swallowed most of our land up.

Onthe twelfth of July, three teenage boys wanted to take pictures of fire. They came with their lighter and their cameras, and they almost tore my world apart.
If the wind had been blowing in a different direction, my home could have burned down.

On the twelfth of July, my dad received a call from my mother. She was hysterical, and said the four words that made our worst fear a reality: “The cane’s on fire.”
When we got home, all of my senses were attacked. I saw flames, heard the cane exploding, and smelled the smoke.

I’ve never cried from fear before, but that day I just disintegrated.
I had no control over…

Truly, the town of Loon, Bohol is blessed with natural scenery that can pacify every weary soul. I’ve been in this town for the second time, and every time I traipse my feet here, I constantly find something new and interesting. In fact, there’s a newly found gem in Loon, Bohol, which is the magical existence of Coral Garden in Brgy. Tangnan. And the newly favorite spot of many is the 99 Hugot Lines of Tajang Pass causeway in Loon Bohol, which showcase the overflowing emotions of Loonanon’s or hugot (A slang word refers to drawing emotions from somewhere deep within).

I won’t be shocked if Loon, Bohol owns a great deal of surprises with all its hidden nature’s beauty. Unknown to many, this town suffered a lot during the 2013 quake that hit Bohol and the nearby Island of Cebu. Actually, one of the biggest and the oldest churches in the Philippines was actually sited in this town. But, during the earthquake in October 15, 2013, the church structures and walls were falling down and smashed into pieces. I’ve heard a bunch of stories of survival during this immense atrocious event, as I had a chance to stay with Miranda’s family during my first visit to this town on April 2017.

Last week I read a lovely little poem (entitled Questions Without Answers) on a blog page of lovely poetry called A Reading Writer.  I have attached the link for anyone interested in reading the inspirational piece. Thank you Rosema for the inspiration.

areadingwritr.wordpress.com/…/questions-without-answers

Treasured Memories That Never Were

It was a warm summer night when
we slow danced on a quiet tropical
beach. Your soft cheek caressed my
five o’clock shadow. The full moon
glowed in your intoxicating eyes as
you said the words I longed to hear.

Then there was that night we drank
sweet merlot and read love poems
by candle light. We made love until
dawn. And I brushed your silky hair
as you slept in my arms. That night
you promised me to love me forever

Perhaps, one day I will finally build
the courage to approach you. Then
I could tell you how I feel…