Sunday Outing

Sunday was filled with another outing after church this week. I deem this one more successful.

Staff of Episcopal Diocese of Santiago (EDS) took me out to see one of the more local sites. Jocelyn, Joyce, Grace, Jocelyn’s 19 month old son, Jayden, Grace’s six year old niece, Sir Junior and I all piled into the car and headed north to Magat Dam. But first, we of course had to stop at the Save More Market to stock up on snacks. We bought some of my favorites, one I started loving when I was in Spain, Hello Panda, and always a classic, Pringles, and a couple more chips and bread.

Loading up on snacks.

Magat Dam was about a 40 minutes drive through the countryside of Isabela Region. Where we would see corn lining the road in parts of Virginia, in the Philippines it is rice patties. There was also the beautiful backdrop of the mountains. Upon arriving at the dam, we drove along the top and then stopped to enjoy our snacks and take pictures. Along the top of the dam, they have covered benches where people can sit and take in the breathtaking scenery.

Rice patties 

Grace's niece enjoying the scenery.

Here's a quick history; construction of the dam began in 1975 and completed in 1982. It is one of the largest dams in the Philippines. As a large rock-fill dam, its two main purposes are as a source of irrigation and hydroelectric power.

Jocelyn and her son, Jayden, taking pictures.

Looking to one side, you see the mountains and the water scattered with lilies and fishing houses. To the other side, you see the ravine and cities of Isabela far off in the distance. There was a cool breeze blowing which amplified a peaceful, calming sense I felt when taking it all in.

Joyce and Grace capturing the beauty.

Left to Right: Sir Junior, Jayden, Jocelyn, Grace's niece, Grace and me.

Enjoying our snacks!

Then we headed back to Santiago City where we ate lunch at ChowKing. The best way to describe it is Chinese fast food with a mix of Captain D’s and KFC. I say that because you can get a combo with lo mein, fried rice, egg roll and then fish sticks or fried chicken as your main dish. I simply stuck with the Chinese theme and ordered sweet and sour pork. After a full meal, it was time to head back to the compound for an afternoon nap.

All in all it was the perfect Sunday outing! Thanks for reading!