Daddy’s Summer

CEBU, Philippines —  Mr. Pañares was tucking his daughter into bed that night when he mentioned going on a family trip as soon as her classes ended. “That’s exciting Dad, but how did you use to spend your summer when you were my age?” Eight-year-old Manilyn asked.

“It was the best time of the year for us. We would swim in the river, catch fish and build camps in the backyard. My cousins would come over and spend their vacation at our house. We stayed outdoors most of the time,” Manilyn’s dad explained.

“So where are we going this year, Dad? Are my cousins joining us on this trip?”

Before her father could answer, his mobile phone rang. “Hello, good evening, Fred. It’s Ryan. I’m calling to invite your family to join us this summer. We’re going to Aloguinsan for a vacation.”

It was Manilyn’s Uncle Ryan and her dad put him on speaker so she could hear the conversation. “Oh, I was going to call and invite you, too. We’ve also planned to get away this summer. We’re going to Moalboal,” Mr. Pañares was laughing as he told his brother this.

“Dad, why don’t we spend a few days in Aloguinsan and then go to Moalboal after that?” Manilyn suggested. Just in time, Mrs. Pañares entered the room and heard what Manilyn said. “That’s a clever idea. I’m up for it.” She said.

There were still two weeks left before Manilyn’s classes ended. She couldn’t stop telling everyone about their double vacation plan. She was so excited that she decided to start packing her things for the trip as soon as she got home from school the next day.

On their first day at the beach, Mr. Pañares taught Manilyn how to make a kite and fly it. He also showed her different techniques in building sandcastles. One of her favorites was the message relay which was done by writing messages on the sand.

The days that followed were full of outdoor activities. At night they would lie down on the sand and gaze at the stars. Manilyn learned what the Big and Small Dippers looked like and how to locate north using the two constellations.

On their first morning in Moalboal, Manilyn was taught the basics of swimming. She was so happy that she learned how to float on her back. She wouldn’t want to get out of the water.

“Dad, I have learned a lot of things these past few days. Thank you so much,” Manilyn kissed her father on the cheek.

“I’m glad you enjoyed them. I just showed you how I used to spend my summer when I was young,” Mr. Pañares hugged his daughter.