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Today we took off to Manila Bay to board a boat for Corregador Island, the important World War II military base. We waited at the dock for a boat that was two and a half hours late. We decided to reschedule so Allison wouldn't miss her school play due to a late return time. Instead we spent the day shopping.

October 20, Today we went to visit an important ministry located in Tondo, a very poor section of Manila. Smoky Mountain is a Garbage dump area where people live and make their living by picking through the garbage and recycling what they find. There is a housing project here which has 26 buildings that hold 100 units in each building. There are 20,000 people who live in these buildings. The cost to live here is about $14 a month per unit which will many times house 6-8 people. Tuberculosis is a very big problem here as it is in all poor areas of the country. The Youth With A Mission group has helped many people here to receive medicine and spiritual guidance. They have weekly bible studies, a student sponsorship program, and a clean day care where babies are nourished and mothers receive instruction. We walked through one building where a casket was on display with a collection cup. Once enough money has been donated the family will be able to afford burial. Children were playing, adults were visiting as the casket sat in the hallway amongst trash.......See more pictures at http://www.flickr.com/photos/bsllvn/

October 19, What an interesting day! The Museum Volunteers of the Philippines took a tour bus to Antipolo today to visit some art galleries. The Pinto Art Gallery showcases local artists and is set among beautiful gardens and near a beautiful old home. We went to lunch at a local cafe, The Crescent Moon Cafe where a pottery studio is located. After lunch we all got to make a piece of pottery before heading out to a secret surprise destination. Jardin de Mirimar is a beautiful home filled with Santas and decorated for Christmas all year long! Nana Hanna would have loved this place and I thought of her during the entire visit.
Please go to http://www.flickr.com/photos/bsllvn/ to view all of my pictures.

October 18, Happy Birthday Sean Buddy! I walked 3 miles today and then went to lunch with Allison. She had an early dismissal day, then she had to be back for Basketball at 3.

October 17, Quiet day of class and a long walk out to Rockwell for lunch at a great French restaurant with Diane. Our car is coded on Monday, meaning we can't drive it. This is intended to help cut down on the cars on the road. Doesn't seem to be working! There is still too much traffic and too many people!