Does anyone here also grow up in the countryside? Or have a vacation? How was the experience so far? Did you enjoy it?
We can't deny that life here was too far from the city from sceneries, lifestyle, etc. I found it too dull for someone born and raised in this place, not until I stayed in the town for years. I slowly realized the benefits I hadn't noticed.
Several of my officemates always expressed their desire to go when I went home for a vacation. They wanted to experience that kind of life it offers. Perhaps they wanted a peaceful environment too. Most of them have only city life.
My place was located on an island here in the Philippines. Yet our home was far from the sea, a mountainous area. Let me give you a glimpse.

Edited via Canva: Photos mine.

Most of the time, I am awakened due to the sounds of crackling chickens. It was a regular sight in the morning to see my Father feeds them. They are not kept in the cage, just wandering around. You might ask, aren't they lost? Well, some did. I think they lost their way to our home.
Before twilight, after being fed, they would settle and sleep in the twigs of the trees. Yes, they slept too. ( I am referring to native chickens).

Aside from these chickens, you can also see and experience how coffee blooms. Our house was surrounded by coffee trees, which was one of our sources of income back then. Once the flowers bloom, you can smell the fragrance the moment you step out the door. Just imagine having a cup of coffee while inhaling its scent. Even the bees were so attracted to it. I have read that flowers contain caffeine too. Just like humans, it also makes them alert. Source

This is what coffee flowers looks. It was beautiful, and if you going to look closely here, it is.

See how that bee enjoys?

After here comes the fruits. Harvesting this is quite tiring, and I remember my old self as a kid crying every time I am helping my parents. My Grandma was so strict that damaging even a twig was a big deal. You know it's already good to pick if it turns ripe or puffy.

You can also find these grapes growing within the vicinity. Though it only bears seasonal fruits. Are you wondering how it grows in a tropical country? I don't know too. Yet here it is.

I was so amazed the first time I saw these. I kept on monitoring since the day the flowers bloomed. Day by day, as the fruits grow more prominent, I can't help but feel excited. Finally, it ripens.

I took a piece and hurriedly put it in my mouth, only to spit it out. I got deceived. It was so itchy to the tongue, and I could not explain the taste. It only looks like grapes, but it's not. Or maybe this is a variety of but a wild one.
I told my Mother about it and I was scolded. She says it might be poisonous. That idea didn't crossed my mind as I thought all fruits were edible.
Was this available in your country too?

Thank you for dropping by.

Author: Lhes
Date published: July 31, 2022
Place: Manila Philippines