Faith Academy has a week long October break each year. This allows students to spend time with their families, and is especially beneficial for the boarding students. Since we had this week off, 8 of my friends and I jumped on the opportunity to take a trip. We decided to visit another Filipino island down south called Palawan.
This island was absolutely beautiful! It is known for its beaches and scuba diving opportunities. We really enjoyed getting out of the busy city of Manila to enjoy the more quiet and peaceful city of Puerto Princesa.
The Friday before break, my vice principal walked into our classroom with a platter of cupcakes and a birthday hat. It was a fun surprise for all of us and I really enjoyed getting to celebrate my birthday a little early with my kiddos! (Along with Crazy Hat Day!)
My birthday happened to fall on the Wednesday of our trip. The day started off with a Skype call to my wonderful mother. Let me tell you... it was definitely weird and a little saddening to not get to talk to all of my family on my birthday. But I am so thankful that I got to connect with my mom and tell her a little bit about what we had been doing on our trip!
I then went back to our hotel room, where my roommates had decorated with balloons and a nice little pile of presents on our bed. They did an awesome job of making the day special!
After getting ready, our group loaded up and we headed to Palawan's Underground River. This is known as Wonder of Nature. We were able to get in a little boat and travel down the river with our tour guide. Meg and I sat close to him in the back of the boat and really enjoyed his commentary on the cave's formations. :)
After the river, we ate at a nice little Filipino buffet and were offered the treat of eating woodworm. Five of us decided to take advantage of the opportunity... and the boys ended up enjoying the slimy creatures.
We were able to go back to our hotel for a relaxing afternoon spent by the ocean shore. The Lord reminded me that He is a God worth enjoying! I had such a good time admiring His creation while on this trip. I loved enjoying the Lord.
That night, we were able to go out on the town for dinner at a nice seafood restaurant and I was surprised with some blueberry cheesecake. Once we got back to our hotel, we partook in a dance party at my request. :) I LOVE to dance, and we had a great time in our little room with our beds pushed to the sides.
Overall, it was an awesome birthday. Completely different than anything before... but awesome. Thank you for your continued prayers!
