Cousin Tara Visits From Austria

 This week during Nate's quarter break, we had the blessing of a visitor from Austria!  My cousin, Tara, came to the Philippines for the first time.  For her first cultural experience, we took her to visit my new friend, Ate Emilita.  This sister in Christ is now 7 months pregnant with her 7th child!  (Mom, you've been to this lady's house before--the one with my curtains down by the river--she remembers you).  We brought her 5 kilos of rice, and later Emi told me that she had run out of rice and was praying for God to provide!  Just then we came in answer to that prayer--praise the Lord!

 Then, for family bonding experiences, we took Tara to a fun pool with waterslides.  I thought Aunt Martha would like this picture, of her daughter with my 2 sons! 

My cousin and I with my 3 sons!  (Nate taking the picture).

 Tuesday we took her on the adventure that is usually a favorite among our visitors: the Samal trip to Tagbobo Falls.  Here we are--the lovely cousins ready to board a local ferry passenger boat. 

 After hiring some random guys to take us there, we stopped for gas and a picture.  (Stephen, do you think it is the same driver that you and Joy had?  Look at your pictures and see this guy is wearing the same shirt AND wearing it the same way!  Funny!)

After a scenic drive through the rural island roads, we hiked down to this isolated waterfall...we had it to ourselves.  It was pretty strong due to recent rains, but it was still fun to swim in!  Memories are being made!

 Nate was on the other motorcycle with our 2 boys (Luke missed out on this adventure).

 The third day we had some other cultural immersion experiences like riding jeepneys and trikes, but also some cultural escapes, like going to Starbucks!  At the end of the afternoon I took Tara to visit Emi and her mom.  What a special family (Mom, notice your glass hanging there).

Tara got to see first-hand some of my favorite Filipina ladies in the community where we are building relationships.  This is Ruen showing us her hanging garden--so resourceful!  (Beckie, I posted this one for you and the Canadian sisters too!)

The last of four packed days, we took Tara to the beach!  She got a little burnt, but that was okay since it is winter in Austria!  This morning we said good-bye to her, but we are so thankful for all the special time we had together!  See you later, Tara, and thanks for coming!