Weekend Reading

TGIF!

I don't know about you all but I've had a crazy, busy week! We've been catching up after the long, holiday weekend and preparing for visitors next week. The staff was supposed to plant trees tomorrow as part of a development project but it seems as though one last Typhoon is going to hit the Philippines. Hopefully, it is the last for the season!

Super Typhoon Haiyan

Hey readers, friends, and family!

There's been much concern over my safety and the safety of the other YASCers as Super Typhoon Haiyan. I'm happy to say that we are all on the Northern Island of Luzon. Below is a map with an arrow of where I am versus the trajectory of the storm.

While my weekend plans have been rained out, I will be safe! Thanks for all the prayers and concerns. I feel blessed to be out of the storms path. Although, please keep everyone else in the Philippines who will be greatly affected by this storm in your prayers.

Compassionate God… Draw near to us in this time of sorrow and anguish, comfort those who mourn, strengthen those who are weary, encourage those in despair, and lead us all to fullness of life; through the same Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer, who liveth and reigneth with thee, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God for ever and ever. Amen

— Holy Women, Holy Men: Celebrating the Saints (Church Publishing: New York), page 733

{image via}

Driving 101

When learning how to drive, a part of me was thankful to learn how to navigate the craziness of aggressive, defensive, fast, stop and go traffic of Northern Virginia. I felt that if I could handle the NOVA drivers than I could drive anywhere. Well since arriving in the Philippines, I’m rethinking that theory.

There is no logical order to traffic – no passing lanes, speed limits, stop signs or traffic lights signaling when to stop and go. I’m thankful to have a driver who is familiar with the madness or else I would never go anywhere.

First, let’s talk about the various vehicles and obstacles on the road:

On top of regular cars there are trucks, who are the slowest on the road,

Puppy Therapy

Who doesn't love puppies? They are cute, cuddly, lovable, playful creatures! My neighbor's dog had six of them about a month ago. They're finally old enough to be out and around. Once I knew they were born, every morning I would look out my window waiting for the day they would finally show themselves. It may sound pathetic, but I have to admit I sometimes (read: most of the time) prefer puppies to children. The anticipation was killing me! Finally, last week the day came that six little fur balls were out exploring their new world.

Little Things

It's back to a normal work week! Due to a low pressure and typhoon hitting the south, we are being dumped with gloom and rain. I'm tired of clouds and want the sun back! I can't believe it is already November. It's hard for me to wrap my brain around it since it's still feels like summer here. 

There's is much coming up in the next few weeks and I cannot wait share! In the meantime, enjoy some little moments from my life! 

{More love in the form of Fall Cheer from Aunt Susan & Uncle Bill and the Diocese of Virginia Staff}

Celebrating the Dead

As it is said, "a picture is worth a thousand words." And so, I believe they can display a deeper meaning of All Saints' Day than my description. Although, I will give a little background.

Here in the Philippines, Halloween is not widely celebrated or really even mentioned. All Saints' Day, the day after Halloween, is traditional, family holiday. Almost everyone has November 1st off of work. This year it fell on a Friday, so it was a long holiday for everyone. Our office closed at noon to allow people to travel. Buses and Jeepneys were completely packed. People even talked about how if some wanted a ride they would have to stand or sit in the aisle. It's one of the busiest travel times of the year.

Weekend Reading

Happy All Souls Day!

Today is an important family holiday to Filipinos. They spend the day cleaning their dead family's graves, sharing fellowship with one another and blessing their loved ones who passed.

I continue to be inspired, amazed, and entertained by my fellow YASCers' posts! I hope you are too, and follow the links to read only a snapshot of the adventures we are all on.