Mabuhay!

Despite the fact that everyone told me to brush up on my Spanish before moving here, the native language in the Philippines is Tagalog. Cesar and Marites talk to each other in Tagalog all the time. They speak loudly, so either they aren't talking about me or they know I don't have a clue as to what they are saying. Sometimes I wonder if their words could be translated to, "Can't they put their shoes up instead of having them all over the house?" or "Did you see how much she spent on groceries?!" I really worry about that last one. But the only tagalog word I have learned is "Mabuhay" meaning: cheers, welcome, hurrah. I joined the "Mabuhay Club" which was formed within the ladies group that I have also joined. The Mabuhay Club was set up by two cute ladies as a way to show new expats around the village and other surrounding areas. It also gives you a chance to meet new people and ask the thousand questions on your mind. Of course, I am always ready with my camera, so I grabbed some photos of our adventures!

Our first trip was a Jeepney tour through the village. Jeepney's are like taxis that are mainly used to transport the locals around town. They are usually crammed with people inside.

On another day they took us on a trip that included the wet market. You can imagine my reaction seeing (and smelling) the meat.

 

At least they were friendly!

I couldn't get out of there fast enough!

 

The company was great, though!

 

Another day trip was spent at Tagatay. This is about an hour away from the village. Here you can find inexpensive wood furniture, fresh fruit and flowers, and the Taal Volcano (an active volcano, I might add).

We had a small group for this trip. Here we are at Breakfast at Antonio's. The food, view, and company were fabulous! I was caught off guard by the chilly temperatures up the mountain.

 

We also made a stop at Sophia's Garden. While the grounds were nice, my massage was one of the worst! Never EVER have I had someone massage my belly OR my eyebrows. What the heck?! I thought perhaps I was on candid camera!

 

 

We finished our months worth of gatherings with a high tea at the Shangri-La.

 

I don't drink tea, but it was a great time anyway!

 

 

 

 Not many towns in the states need a Mabuhay Club, but I am sure many newcomers to your area would love a friendly welcome! I know I plan on being a better neighbor if/when I ever make it back! Mabuhay!