In November of 2004 I visited my cousin and his family in New Jersey. It was my second time in the area, but my first with my Canon Rebel. I took the opportunity to capture a lot of memories on film. (2 photos)

In December of 2004, I visited my homeland for the first time after 5 years.

It was a joyful reunion with family and friends. I got to backpack Mt. Pulag in Benguet, see Taal Lake in Tagaytay City, visit a friend in Cebu, and take family and friends on vacation in Subic Bay, Zambales.

I hope my photos will reflect the joy I felt during these 23 days back home, and the beauty that I will always want to return to again and again. (3 photos)