Salamat po!

I can't believe our journey is coming to a close, and yet, when I think back to the night we landed (in the rain, surprisingly), it seems to have been a lifetime ago. If you had asked me a year ago about what I would be doing in the Spring of 2011, a trip around the world would not have been my response. And yet, here I am.

To sum it all up would be impossible, and to understand it all will take several months if not years (if at all). In some ways, this has been a trip of extremes: extreme climate (at least compared to the winter wonderland we left), extreme poverty (one of the greatest challenges faced by the Filipinos), extreme generosity and hospitality (we can't say enough good things about our hosts, both on the family and club level), and extreme dedication (Rotarians putting themselves and everything they've got out there every day to make their communities better). In other ways, it's been a trip of similarities: a shared love of laughter (laugh til we cry, as Cindy alluded to), a common desire to understand each other better, and an overwhelming sense that despite our differences in manner and appearance, we're all one family at heart. Note to self: karaoke really breaks down walls and builds bridges!

As for our team, well, what can I say? I am grateful for having been chosen, and I am also grateful for the selection committee's choices for teammates. Cindy, our team leader, Rebecca, Susan, and Jamie, you have all touched my heart and have been a delight. Thank you for calming me down when I would start to twitch from lack of internet access to reach my children, and for not once showing any sign that my loneliness for them bothered you in any way. Your love and compassion is epic, and I am deeply grateful. In twelve hours, I will be in the air over the Pacific on my way home, while the rest of the team takes a quick side trip to Hong Kong before following me back to Pennsylvania. I will miss them but am looking forward to the adventure of traveling alone, believe it or not! As my oldest son used to say when he was a little guy, "it's a big kaventure!" (sic, adventure).

The outbound team from Quezon City will arrive in Pennsylvania in a little more than a week. I hope we can warm things up for them (my family this morning described the recent Philly weather as "apocalyptical.") I must be honest: I do not look forward to leaving my beloved 90 degree weather and palm trees! Let's not even talk about all the fresh tropical fruit growing in the backyard! But seriously, wait til you meet this team! You will be delighted, as we were, to meet them. We're all planning on connecting with them while they're in town and continuing to build our friendships and enjoy their very pleasant company.

In closing, I ask that you all pray for our safe return and for safe travels for the incoming team from Quezon City. I extend a hearty "Salamat po" (thank you, with great respect!) to all the Rotarians and their families in Rotary District 3780. Please come visit us--you've got friends (and a home) in Pennsylvania!