I write this stunted knowing that neither pictures or words or emotions displayed while showing and telling can justify the glory in it all. The timing of my trip to the Philippines made for a good fresh start: I left in the beginning of a new year, traveling to a new place, pursuing a new adventure. I knew I was only somewhat prepared to leave behind the tangible side of my miracles of a mother and father and siblings that have me taken back everyday by the b...

Not much of what I have come across here has allowed me to quick-footedly sweep through, change things, and then be able to turn around and see what has been completed as I shake the dust off my hands. Even if I were able to do that, it is not meant to sound like a prideful move. There have been miraculous, unforgettable experiences in my life and stories that I have heard from many others of times like those. And even though I have not been able to do that, it i...

Riding through Cuatro, I was drawn to a group of people that were sitting in chairs in front of a house. Just sitting. These houses are about four chairs' length across, and about three rows of chairs were set out. Each was filled. An aisle ran through the center of this set up. There was no conversation; all chairs faced the house. These people just stared ahead… There was a candle burning. In the middle of the day there is need for neither heat nor light...

A gecko has found his comfort residing in my bathroom. When I brush my teeth, I see two sets of eyes: my own in the mirror, his in my peripheral. Other times, I just see his back legs and tail squirm upwards into a small opening between the wall and the trimming…which must mean that there is a small opening in my ceiling that I cannot see. I happen to know a thing or two about pest control, so I am well aware that mice and roaches could also squeeze their w...

I am trying to learn my lesson and not be so vague, so this is my gift to you. I'll just try to explain a day. I have started out as an extra set of eyes and arms at the Children's home. It is lovely everyday. I am also Teacher Megan for a classroom of nine first and second graders. I teach music and art everyday as the teacher, but as for the other subjects, I am more one-on-one with the students, tutoring them as they learn. They range in age, most of the kids ...