A Different Kind of Joyride

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What makes a joyride memorable? 🚗

For me, it's not just about the ride itself but the feeling it gives. It's about the excitement, freedom, and the joy of being in the moment.

I've always loved road trips even though I don't drive (yet!). There's something about watching the sceneries, feeling the wind on my face, and knowingg I don't have to rush anywhere.

On my recent visit to our province in La Union, I had a different kind of adventure, far from the city streets, traffic, and highways I was used to.

That time, my joy ride came in the form of a Kuliglig.

Kuliglig

Kuliglig is a hand tractor commonly used by farmers in the Philippines to transport stuff, usually it's for the crops and farm animals. Sometimes it's being used by farmers as a transportation, sometimes it carries unexpected passengers like me 😂

It's not the typical smooth ride, it's bumpy, noisy, and completely open, but that's exactly why I love it. But I wouldn't ride a Kuliglig in the city. I'd just end up covered in pollution, plus I'd have to keep an eye on my bags and watch out for sntachers 😭

It was early morning, around 7 am, just after breakfast when my dad called us outside. The Kuliglig was waiting. My aunt, grandma, youngest sister, and Gabbie hopped on with me. It was my youngest sister's and Gabbie's first time, and I couldn't wait for them to experience it.

Kuya Nat, our Kuliglig driver, made sure we were seated comfortably before starting our ride. We could've walked around the farm and field because it's just beside our house 😂 but riding the Kuliglig made it extra special.

As we passed the familiar path, memories f my childhood came rushing back. The mornings and afternoons spent walking and biking with my cousins here, chasing sunrises and sunsets.

I kept asking my grandma about the crops we passed. She pointed out the corn, peanuts, and rice growing in different rows.

While we were enjoying the ride, I noticed a dog following us. Kuya Nat introduced him as Bantay, his loyal companion. He always joins him in the fields, keeping him company.

Bantay, the dog	the couple 😂🫶🏼	the goats

Unlike a smooth car ride, this one's raw, you can feel the bumps, smell the fresh air, and hear the rustling of the trees as we passed by. It feels refreshing. On our way home, we passed by some goats. I bet they were already late for work 😂 We also saw a pair of carabaos enjoying each other's company. Pretty sure they're a couple 💓

I looked around and saw endless green fields with goats and carabaos grazing and playing under the sun. The scenery was peaceful compared to the usual fast-paced city life I was used to. Visiting our province always brings me back to a simpler life where the fields and farm are right next to our home, and the beach is just a short walk away.

It was a different kind of joyride. It didn't take me to a scenic highway or a tourist destination. It connected me to a way of life that thrives on simplicity. It reminded me that joy doesn't have to come from luxury and that it can be found in the everyday. In the small moments.

This joyride is more than just a Kuliglig ride, it's a glimpse into the lives of farmers like Kuya Nat, who rely on Kuligligs for their work.

This kind of joyride reminded me why I love coming home to our province.