Greetings American Pen Pal!

I would like to start by saying thank you for agreeing to write me. I am not all too sure about what to say, but I will start with a little about myself. I am 13 years old and I am living with my Ma Ma and Pa Pa. I have 3 younger siblings that are 2, 6, and 9 years old.

I am living on the island of Panay. This island isn’t that important, except for a certain time of year, Ati-Atihan! Ati-Atihan is my favorite festival of the entire year. My whole family goes downtown to see the streets flooded with foreigners and natives as well.  As you walk down the street, you can feel the music beating the ground as if it is in sync with your heart. The dancing is my favorite part! There are blackened dancers on the street dancing to traditional Filipino music, and the spectators (me!) are dancing as well! The music floods the streets as the waves do on the beach. I like to eat all of the delicious food at the feast too! It makes my stomach grumble with pleasure. One of my favorites is Lumpia. Lumpia is a spring roll with a thin pastry skin and savory fillings such as vegetables.  

I hope that you will reply to my letter. Maybe you might visit me sometime in the future during the Ati-Atihan Festival. Thank you for your kind consideration, American.

-Jaslene Ocampo