Just Two Days Left

Where to begin to write about the “end”. I guess most important is to assert that our end isn’t an end at all, but rather a beginning. We feel more confident than ever that we will return. This trip has merely opened our eyes to a new place and many, many new faces that quickly become fast friends.

Here’s the funny thing about our journey. Upon arrival, we were a bit overwhelmed by Manila. Its loud; its busy; its crowded; its smoggy – not what this small town girl was used to at all. And so, from the start, I became our tour director and set to work at planning regular trips to get out of the city, see the country – and to give our host family a break from our constant presence! That was our mode – stay in Manila a week or so, then head out to a new island, village, or beach. As a consequence, we saw a lot of the Philippines. In fact, our friends here often tell us we’ve seen more of the Philippines than they have.

But, as time passed, we began to develop a fondness for Manila. We learned to get around a bit easier. We learned of many good restaurants. And, of course, we learned of good places to shop, shop, shop (and I have two fully packed Balik Bayon boxes to prove it!). But, more importantly, we got to know our family and friends here. By December I found myself feeling a bit travel weary at time and regretting that we were leaving Manila when preparing for a trip because of things we would miss out on with friends and family.

In our final week, we have been lunching and dinnering with all of the family and family friends that have helped make the Philippines feel like home to us. As I savored these final conversations I realized that our endless travels, though remarkable and unforgettable to be sure - came at some expense. There are many relationships that are now just budding – and we have to leave before we’ll see them flower. What that means is that we simply must return. And, in the meantime, email, blogs, Skype and an occasional phone call will have to bridge the gap until our next visit.

Until then, to everyone here who has spent even a minute of their time with us, thank you for your kindness and generousity. We will miss each of you very much. Know that ”Chateau Landel”, just north of Seattle, is open for business. Anyone interested in booking our guest room is welcome. And of course, “We give you discount!!”