As the year 2012 has drawn to a close, allow me to share with you the amazing details of how I spent my New Year’s Eve.  For me, it was one of the best and truly memorable celebrations I have ever had because of one thing – my family.

I woke up as early as 5am in the morning, as I was probably too excited to prepare for New Year’s Eve. I started my day with a smile and kisses from my niece. This day is very special to us not only because of the usual merriment but also for the first time all of my family are there and complete to celebrate the New Year. My brother and his family decided to celebrate the New Year with us and it was one of the many great things that happened to me for the New Year.

At exactly 1pm, we went to Sampol Market to buy the necessary things for the preparation. Since there were only 10 of us, just a modest preparation will do. We had spaghetti, pata ng baboy, inihaw na tilapia, round fruits, salad, and we bought drinks plus some Goldilocks products and some Dunkin' Donuts. After the preparation, we all ate together and prepare ourselves for the upcoming event.

As early as the afternoon, our neighbors were already showing how most Filipinos celebrate New Year’s Eve. Some wish to welcome the New Year with fireworks display and firecrackers. Others started their night-long merrymaking involving food, drinks and loud music. Our neighbor assembled the speakers and mobile and then the party started. I spent four hours of happiness and bonding with my family and neighbors while waiting for midnight to come. 

Five, four, three, two, one…Happy New Year! And then came the highlight of the celebration. Children blew their torotots, firecrackers were lit up, people banged on pots and pans, the sound system boomed noisily,  and what I saw were happy people dancing and greeting each other “Happy New Year!” I jumped high in the belief that it will increase my height. Ha ha! Also, I put 700 pesos in my bag because my brother said that it will bring me good luck in 2013.

I received messages from my closest friends and cousins greeting me a merrier and nore prosperous new year. After the fireworks display, I had Media Noche together with my family and some close neighbors. We spent almost an hour of talking with each other, and after that we ended the celebration with smiles and happiness in our hearts.

During the best moments, we must accept that time really passes by too quickly. All we can do is to treasure every second and be better. Another year had passed and another year of chances to change and live life to the fullest. I certainly hope everyone experienced one of the best New Year’s Eves in their lives. Happy 2013!