Family in New Zealand

If you are Filipino or if you know one, you'll understand the importance of a big extended family. I've been fortunate enough to be a part of a strong clan of at least 50 relatives (growing more and more every year) in New Zealand. We have our ups and downs but I love them to bits. I am who I am now because of their influence. New Zealand feels like home because of them. I consider them as my close friends and allies. My relationship with them is certainly the relationship I want my daughter, Sophia, to have once she's older and able to grasp the importance of family.

Our annual Christmas and new year's gatherings are always a blast. These are events I look forward to every year. Here are some photos of my beloved clan.