The Kick Off

Despite the long flight, 

spending a few days with Jeanie was totally worth it.

When we called to tell her I was coming she could not quit laughing, 

I think it was a good laugh? Somewhere in between "Are you joking? and excitement.

I should start by saying....I really missed having a driver. I was not to

nervous about taking taxi's since I kind of know my way around, but 

when I looked down and saw that my door handle was the bottom of a eating

utensil, I was thinking "hu, this might be a funny day". When we started on the

express way and the car maxed out at 35, I really wondered what I was thinking. Did I mention

no air conditioning? I think because it was day one I was able to laugh about it.

Seeing the smile on Jeanies face made the "not so cool" taxi ride, no big deal.

Louie, Jeanie

Courtesy of Trent we started our weekend with a shopping spree. And a trip

to McDonalds, I have never seen any kid as excited to eat at McDonalds

as Louie, I am not sure how he ate because he grinned the whole time.

Louie and his Aunt Lorie

We spent the afternoon at Jeanie's house preparing

for the baptism. I also wanted to check out her pad and 

see how it turned out since we did not get to see it finished before we left.

Jeanie gave me a tour (with her neighbor Enday).

Though it may not look like a lot, it is a huge improvement.

Basement; Bathroom and kitchen.

Blue bucket is where they bathe.

Notice the sink.

Upstairs; Louie and his buddy. The white machine is 

a washer sitting next to their fridge.

 Jeanie is so happy with her house!

She really is one of the most gracious, kind women that I know

and I am so happy that our paths crossed.

I love Filipino babies! Love them.

The kids kept coming to the door to take a look

at the white lady,

pretty much a movie star 

or 

maybe a freak show.

Out front...

The crowds came,

These kids do not have a lot 

BUT

they are the happiest kids ever!

It is a good personal reminder, and makes me want

to live my life differently. It makes me want to spend 

less on material things, spend more time with my kids 

and overall, simplify my life.  

I say this but it is really easy to forget when 

I am back in the comfort of my own home. 

DVR rocks, heated seats are the bomb,

and I am pretty sure life would be way lame with out the Disney channel.

Remind me to take third world trips often.