2010 already?!

Ok, so I'm not very good at this blogging thing, but maybe it's because I don't think of myself as a good writer, or having anything really that worthwhile that others would actually enjoy reading. I guess it's not necessary for me to be a good writer. Most family members just want to know some details so they know what to say when a friend at church asks, "So, how are Scott and Sylvia doing?"

Here are some memorable moments since I last blogged:
-Christmas concert for the elementary students. I must've forgotten last year's reasons why I didn't enjoying doing a drama for this event, because I signed up to do it again. Stressful, but memorable for the students.
-end of the semester involved lots of glitter, glue, and even gingerbread houses thanks to IKEA. The classroom smelled like sugar the next morning. Thankfully the kids went home at noon after they stuffed their mouths full of sugar.
-the night before we left for our Christmas holiday we went to a photo exhibition to commemorate International Migrant's Day. It was minus 12 celsius, we wandered around the art district for about 45 minutes, surrounded by quiet, empty streets, abandoned factories, and numerous galleries all bearing similar names. Finding the place made us appreciate it even more. We even bought some pictures!
-arriving in the Philippines and being greeted by my brother and his wife made the trip so much more exciting! It's great to enjoy this all with them here.
-since arriving it's been one party (with lots of food) after another, splattered with a few runs, some swimming, some AWESOME snorkelling in Bohol, chasing after dolphins in a boat, a baby dedication, a wedding, and soon it will be goodbyes.

These times here with the family in the Philippines are precious. Until this time of living in China, I only saw these family members maybe every 3-5 years. It's great to connect closer with these here, to love one another, and to just be a family! In a few days we go back to chilly China, but my heart will be bursting with the warm memories of these priceless times together.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone!