Last night, our group of 10 filled a table at Taverna, one of my favorite drinking spots in the Metro, particularly in Ortigas.  It’s been a while since I was last here but it’s good to unwind after such a long day.

Bubba and I were the last ones to arrive around 930pm.  Madz and Francis are usually on time.  And I’m almost ALWAYS on time.  So you know which direction to look at when I’m late.

I was feeling really tired and it was a slow start for me trying to catch the groove.  Madz was at the helm of the table conversation and it was great seeing her in such an uber-bouncy and cheery mood excited about having everyone there and sharing the photography session ideas both Pearl and her are planning.  How can you not get infected with such enthusiasm?  That’s why I really adore her.

The get-together was a pre-send-off (yes, there’s another despedida at Madz’ place on Sunday) for Bridgette, Madz’ visiting cousin from Australia, who also visited last year during Typhoon Ondoy.  Odette (Madz’ sister), Pearl (Madz’ studio business partner), Bogs (one of Madz’ dozens of cousin), Issang and Bobby, and Mr. Milo Kid (Francis… he hates that moniker) were there.

The Mojito relaxed me a bit and definitely, Taverna’s yummy nachos revived my energy!!!  I didn’t realize Taverna has such awesome bar chows since we always only order drinks and the Spinach dip appetizer.  Bubba was on an eating rage last night and ordered 2 nachos, 1 chicken and pepper melt tortilla, chorizo and cheese croquettes.  He wants to go back today for the chorizo and cheese croquettes.  Bridge loved the melt tortilla and claims that it agreed with her Australian taste buds.

We just kept laughing the night away.  I think we were the loudest bunch there and I didn’t even contribute to the noise that much (awfully exhausted and hungry) but I thoroughly enjoyed the evening with the whole group.  Issang left earlier because she was joining a Travel Factor trip that night (woo-hoo!), a first for her.

Despite some crazy moods of Bridge, Madz will surely miss her presence at home (even the bullying haha).  It’ll be sad to see her ride the plane back to Brisbane on Tuesday but I’m sure she’d be back in Manila for another vacation sooner than Madz can say, “Patience is a virtue.” 😉

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