My Recent Adventures...

Life has gotten really busy, and therefore I haven't had time to update the blog. The school semester is wrapping up so that means finishing up projects, closing units, and writing report cards. However I have found time to explore the Philippines a little more.

I feel like everytime we leave the valley we have to prepare ourselves for an adventure. My most recent adventure was to find the volcano Taal, which has been named the smallest active volcano in the world. Since the Phils kind of lacks in the street signs, it was interesting trying to navigate our way there. Everytime we venture out to find a new place God teaches me a little more about patience and flexibility.

When we got to Taal we had the option of taking horses, but trying to save money and exerience all that we can we hiked our way up the rainy mountain side. What an amazing view! During these times I am reminded of what a beautiful country this is.

The group I hiked with.

Ruth and I were happy to make it to the top!

The Harbor where we took off from.

Taal Volcano, the smallest active volcano in all its glory.

This last weekend Ruth and I went to go help out at a local orphanage. It was an experienced filled with so many different feelings. The kids were amazing and yet it was obvious that they had so much baggage already. There was one baby who cried anytime I touched her, and yet she didn't want to be alone. There were numerous kids with slight physical defects, and all of the kids were starved for attention. Anytime I gave one kid a piggy back or tickled someone another one would want the same done and start crying, an overwhelming experience believe me.

I can't help but think what is God's plan for these kids. How does He plan to use them? They have been blessed to be given to a Christian orphanage, but will they ever truly know God's love? They were born into such horrible circumstances. I can't help but pray for these kids and hope for the best. It has been said that there may be up to 250,000 street kids in the Philippines. for me when I see that number it's hard to imagine that each one has a name, they are not lost in God's eyes. Please join me in prayer for these little ones. My heart can't help but to break for them. God has a plan for each and every one of them. Pray that he would bring someone into their lives that would share the gospel and introduce them to the Father in heaven who has invited them to be part of His eternal family.

Some of the little girls, never could figure out their names.

This little girl we called little strange. She walked and looked so much like my japanese grandma! So funny!

This is my grandma's face! I can't believe how much she reminded me of fumiko!

This little guy wasn't an orphan, he belonged to one of the workers, but he was just so dang cute!

As you can see no matter how long I live here I remain as white as the wall! haha but everytime the kids sat on my lap they pinched my skin, rubbed my white knees, and stroked my blonde hair. it never gets old.