Culture, Buko Juice, and Hope :)

Hello all!

I had a really great week!  I'm sorry I missed you last week, I was typing slow. Oops.

Cultural stuff

1. Filipinos raise their eyebrows instead of saying yes. I am getting used to it, but it used to confuse me.

2. Filipinos point with their lips. They'll say, "over there," and then pucker in that direction.

Pictures...No Time for Mass Email

Most of these pictures were taken at our house, because I'm not supposed to look like a tourist. Also, I sweat SO MUCH, that I've decided to not wear make-up for another 16 months. It's honestly great!  Also, I ride exclusively in Triceys. It's a motorcycle with a side car. You pay the guy and ride in the side car. It's fun!  No one really owns cars here, just motorcycles and bikes.

Santol~ A strange fruit you don't really eat. You just suck on the seeds.

Rats, Rice, and Really Nice People

Hello all!

The Philippines is the best ever!  I am serving in Bulan, with Sister Estacio.  She is native here, and she is amazing!  She is also very patient, which is wonderful. <3

Balut

My last day at the Manila MTC I tried to eat Balut.  I was so excited, because I'm trying to really embrace Filipino culture.  I will include a picture. I attempted to drink the juice...but gagged 3 times. I finally took a bite of someone else's and gagged twice. It was pretty traumatic.  Other than that, I've loved everything I've tried here.  I also legitimately eat rice for every meal. It's not too bad though, usually we eat veggies or fish with it.  We also eat what sort of looks like collard greens, and it's good too.

Legazpi

I made it to Legazpi.  This is the most beautiful place I've ever been. It's like being in the jungle!  I feel so blessed to be on this adventure.  I know that Heavenly Father lives. The Filipinos are amazing! They are so kind and nonjudgemental. I am currently at the mission home and just want you to know I made it safe.

With President and Sister Kotter

Finally in the Philippines

Hey Everyone!

This has been my first week in the Philippines and I love it!  The Philippines is 100% different than America.  I would also like everyone to know that I survived the flight here. I slept roughly 12 hours on the plane.  The jet lag was awful the first day, but after that I've been fine.  The first night here, they sent us all to bed at 7 and we slept till 6 am!  It was insane, I've never slept that much in my life! Anyway, the jet lad is worth it.