Vaca day!

I was in Manila with a few others on a Tuesday. We were looking to choose a family for one of the children. While I was there I got a text that I needed to come here on Thursday to finish papers at immigration. So Monica said I should just stay. I had only the clothes on my back. I was nervous about being on my own... But I stayed anyway. I caught a taxi after they dropped me at the bank and said "ingant ka(be careful)" I had to find my way to the AG missionary office/housing. When I got there I was relieved. I didn't get lost or asked for too much money by the taxi.
The next day I met with someone over me as a missionary. She asked me how I was "really" doing. Oh what a conversation. So she said maybe it would be good for me to go to the mall and walk around...alone. I am always with someone. Especially the kids. And when you have kids with you they always want something of course. Just like kids! And because I'm a single, American woman it's also not good to be alone in certain places. But I like to get away and do things on my own. So this was good. And safe as its inside a building and no bartering. At first it was awkward. I usually get stared at but at least I have someone with me. This time it was just me! I adjusted. I got to enjoy some American food, that I can't find way out where I live. I walked around the mall 7 hours! Then I was able to skype some family and friends since the Internet was reliable. It was very refreshing to have a break. I didn't know I needed it so much. Even though it was a scary thought at first. It was a good vaca day. Then when I was finished I had to take a 3 hour bus back by myself. That was scary to think at first but it was ok. The Filipino culture is truly hospitable. It's just that I have to be aware as a foreigner. But besides that they go out of there way to serve and love you.
I also got to enjoy some Christmas! They really celebrate it here for a while. So enjoy the pics from my vaca day!!!