OFFICIALLY ENGAGED: "What is your plan?"

Gary's Experience:

I had already decided that this woman was to be my wife and wanted to surprise her with the question once I got to the Philippines. In preparing to get a ring, I had asked her good friend about her ring size. She wasn't completely sure so eventually I asked Connie about it and gave away the secret. So, by the time of my visit, everyone knew what was coming. In the Philippines it is customary to ask permission from the parents and family to marry a daughter. Connie and I had it all planned. Her mother's birthday was the second day after my arrival and she needed a dress for the upcoming wedding of Connie's friend. We would buy her a dress and give it to her before the "Family Meeting". This would hopefully put her on our side. It didn't work that way.

On the evening of my first day there, Nanay (Tagalog for mother) wanted to have the meeting. We all gathered in the living room or 'sala'. Connie's two sisters took control of the meeting asking questions and making comments. It was obvious that they were on our side. Nanay didn't say anything for a long time. Finally, with encouragement from the sisters, she began to speak. Her question to us was "What is your plan?" We shared how the K-1 Visa was the best way to get Connie into the U.S. Nanay didn't like the idea of Connie leaving without a marriage first but after a long discussion, she finally agreed with our plan. We would try to have a ceremony there too if we could. Later, at the Apartelle I was staying at, I officially asked Connie to be my wife and gave her the ring.

Me and a tricycle.

   My 'NEW' family.   

The "Singing & Dancing Waiters & Cooks" Restaurant

The evening meal...squid

  Beautiful Lake Taal & Taal Volcano

  Connie & I at Lake Taal

Connie's Experience:

In the process