Day 1- Long Flights & Manila

It's a funny feeling- returning to a place you love so deeply. Especially with people who have never been here. It has {already} been such a gift to see my beloved Philippines through the eyes of my classmates. 

Friends, meet Rachel, Theo, and Asefa! Rachel is an M.Div student at SFTS & her wonderful husband Theo joined us! Asefa is an SFTS student from Ethiopia- we are all enjoying being the SFTS study abroad guinea pigs. Sebastian (SFTS student from LA) will be joining us tomorrow morning. 

Pre-departure at SFO. 

Reuniting with my "boss," host dad, site coordinator, etc. Cobbie was the best feeling EVER! I truly feel at home. 

Delivery "truck."

Rachel pointed out how crazy the wires all look. To me, this didn't look strange at all. I'm used to it- thankful for the opportunity to see with new eyes. I guess it IS kinda crazy. 

Lunch! Rice (obviously), gising-gising (this was the green stuff- it's diced green beans mixed with chicken & made with coconut milk), grilled chicken, and kare kare (the fish dish on top)! I really really really missed Filipino food. Really. 

Selfie in front of Rizal park!

This was a REALLY INTERESTING & intricate monument to Jose Rizal. Rizal is a national hero- he was Philippine patriot against Spanish colonization, a doctor, writer, etc. He was executed publicly for being in resistance movement to Spanish colonization. This {entire} park was dedicated to him. December 30th was national Rizal Day, so the park was extra decked out in celebration. 

Kids playing soccer in Rizal park at dusk. 

Sunset along the water. Just beautiful. I missed my Filipino sunsets. 

 

Unreal. 

I've never felt more at home in my life. 

🇵🇭🌏

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There really are no words to express how good it feels to be home. I thought I'd be overwhelmed to be here, but my primary emotion has been peace. Even though Manila isn't where I lived during my YAV year, being surrounded by this culture, the people, and the {FOOD} is just such a gift. It's almost 7 pm (Monday) here and I'm not even tired. I just want to soak it all in. 

We are in Manila until Friday, so we have another big day tomorrow! Stay tuned...