Mark his birthday in Manila

Today is Mark's birthday. And for the first time in 2 years, we're spending it in Manila.

Two years ago, we spent it in Muikamachi. After the big surprise I planned, we ended up taking the local train from Urasa to Muikamachi. Then we walked from the eki to Jusco (which is quite far, judging from Mark's reaction then) and ate at Makurodonarudo. Followed it up with trips to Amerikaya, Hard-Off, and the Daiso.

Last year, we were in Ginza. It was my last night in Tokyo and we did our usual trek to Shibuya and had dinner at Friday's. Then we went back to that wonderful little hotel - Ginza Washington - and asked the front desk lady/room service lady for plates so we could eat the traditional Dexter's cake in the room.

Today, we finally celebrated in Manila. Heard mass at Greenbelt, followed by lunch at Marina. Then we went to the World Trade Center to meet Ate Bullet and watch Raymond judge the wedding cake competition. (And saw some really bad wedding cakes.) Then it was back to Tsoko Nut for more of the gigantic dalandan juice.

I'm glad that Mark is celebrating back home this year. He's been looking forward to spending his birthday with his family for years now. That alone adds a happy to his happy birthday. And it's another reason to celebrate, so it looks like there will be more celebrations to come.