From Elaine: Hope for the Island Canada
Although it has been some time since my trip to Hope for the Island, I continue to get requests for a personal report. I used to write an update after each trip and apparently you enjoy it.
Can this really be the 14th time I have been to Asia? Sleep eludes me when I travel so I am most often awake for over 50 hours with little more than a catnap on a plane or airport bench. This grueling trip has consisted of 12 flights and 4 boat rides. I am finally convinced that my efforts to save money will be my demise if I insist on taking this route again.
The Philippines either works its way into your heart or you struggle with it. Needless to say, there is a special place in my heart for this country. I arrived with my husband Brian and Hope for the Island board members and friends Dennis & Charlene. Very soon after returning home, I would be requested to accompany a mission team of 17 from Cross Church. Trip #15! It was a joy to be a part of this group who served with passion!
Brian and I, as well as Dennis and Charlene, have been on this journey many times together. We comfortably eased into the bustling port of Surigao City. The buzz of the local transportation, which is little more than a converted motorcycle, brought back memories that made us smile and filled my heart with a strange comfort. Even the never-ending roosters crowing remind me of where I am and how much I love it. (more…)