Our 'Last Year of Independence' (aka Engagement) Party

In 2002, my sister and I had a 'rock star' fourth of July celebration in SF with our close friends. It was a party we will always remember. This year, we decided to use this special date for another memorable celebration -- our last year of independence. Also known as our engagement.

Over 70 of our friends and family gathered at my newly-renovated parents house in Los Altos. While Jeng's family accounted for over half of those in attendance, we were also joined by many of our close friends, and members of my family. Two of my aunts, my cousin Joy and her kids also came into town from Vegas.

(Side story: Last summer, Jeng's parents were in Vegas and visiting Jeng's dad's goddaughter. This goddaughter was looking through his camera at our pictures from Europe and said, "Hey! That's Eileen!" It turns out, Jeng's dad's goddaughter is my cousin Joy. Apparently my aunts worked with Jeng's dad and grandma back in the late 80s. Small world! Jeng and I can probably be found in pictures together as kids. I probably stole things and/or did not share with him and made him cry. At least that's how we imagine it. Anyway luckily, as far as we know, Jeng and I are not related.)

Back to the BBQ. It was a pot luck so with 70 people you can imagine we had a ton of food. The centerpiece of our meal were two lovely little roasted piggies (aka Lechon de Leche). One was dressed as the groom and the other, the bride -- complete with tux, veil and lipstick. One was fat (the groom) and the other dark (the bride). They were delicious.

To accompany our extraordinary amount of food, we also had a ton of beverages -- alcoholic and non. In order to ensure consumption of these alcoholic beverages, we decided to play a couple rounds of beer pong (classy, I know.) and my own version of Hip Hip Hooray from Wowowee on the Filipino Channel. Two of the kids (Kat Kat and Carena) ended up winning the latter game. Their prize: No shots of vodka. Lucky girls.

Lastly, the BBQ would not be complete without a good toss into the pool. Jeng and Jeff were the victims. Hurt in the crossfire was a bottle of Fat Tire and Oliver's shirt. Diana and Erica attempted to toss me in the pool but were faced with my evil side and quickly backed off.

Thanks again to all those who came, ate, and enjoyed. Special thanks to: Jeng's parents, the Icasianos, and the Nguyens for providing the tables/chairs; Jeff for grilling the meat and oysters; my parents for working long and hard to prepare the house; Auntie Auring, Auntie Bet and the Coletti family for traveling from Vegas; and to everyone who brought food and drinks to share. The party of 70 was so much fun.. we can only imagine how much fun it will be with 200!