August 6, 2009
My daughter, Tracey, barely remember the town I was born and grew up in. Her last visit (prior to this one) was some 15 years ago. Time to reacquaint...
Samboan is about 150 kilometers from Cebu City. With road conditions, it takes one 3.5 hours to get from the city to Samboan... through some really funky towns.... and delightful sights. :)
I borrowed the two pics from Tracey... some creatures compete with pedestrians trying to cross a road well traveled. :)
Life is simple in Samboan... uncomplicated. No one hurries... My mother says that. That is one of the reasons why she abandoned California residency.
We started many a day in the sea ... swimming and / or snorkeling. Most mornings some little kids are up and early waiting for Tracey to get into the sea . They frolic with her. Happy children with not a care in the world.
The one in the middle, Kikay, really enjoyed visiting Tracey; made gifts for her and collected shells to present to her new friend, Tracey.
Reese and her sister Angel loved swimming early in the day as well.
Ate our way through the day always…
This is how mango is traditionally served in the Philippines.
Grilled pork.
From the home where we were staying, we ventured going up the Escalon - Jacob’s Ladder – 160 steps from the seashore to the highway and another 157 steps from the highway to the church plaza and watch tower. I am with Nang Glor who is like a third Mom to me... there was my maternal Grandma who raised me, my mom, and Nang Glor.
Nang Glor and I ascending the second part of the Jacob's Ladder. The old watchtower can be seen at the top. It seemed tooooooooooo far up there. Man, was I sweating on that climb!
Tracey starting the second part of the stone ladder from the provincial highway to the church plaza and or watch tower.
Went to the town to see what is the same and what changes there are.. town hall - old and new
We explored the church which was undergoing renovation. I guess after over 300 years, it needs it. :)
Met the new parish priest, Father Mejia, as he came in from playing tennis.
Father Mejia took us around to show us what renovations have been done and told us about future plans. Massive project.
Tomorrow, I will visit the school and deliver books and supplies for our service learning project.
Comments (3)
Oh, Eden you look so happy being back home!
Posted by candi | August 26, 2009 4:53 PM
Posted on August 26, 2009 16:53
I'm so glad you posted this, I was wondering about your home town. So nice you could share it with your daughter.
Posted by amy | August 28, 2009 11:47 AM
Posted on August 28, 2009 11:47
Eden, thank you so much for sharing your bit of heaven on earth. This lifestyle sounds wonderful to me...the essence of simplicity and peaceful existence. It really tugs at my heart...I envy you for the life you had as a child growing up in such a beautiful atmosphere. Your face expresses your joy in being "home" with all the loved ones. I especially am touched that you were able to share this with your daughter. It means alot to both of you I'm sure. How wonderful you made this trip together.
Posted by Barb Cabot | September 1, 2009 6:03 AM
Posted on September 1, 2009 06:03