a trip to the mountains

The second half of my spring break led me to the northern part of my island, Mindanao, to the Bukidnon Province. This area is out in the country, up in the mountains, and beautiful! I went with the two ladies I live with to visit their filipino friend Bebe. Ate Bebe was formerly a helper for missionaries living on the original Wycliffe Translators base in the Philippines. The base, Nasali, is in the process of closing its doors after half a century due to lack of need. This sounds sad, but really it's amazing! Almost all the people groups of the Philippines have the Bible translated into their language! It was interesting to visit this compound, walk through the trees, see the empty houses, and think about all the saints who have passed through. The compound used to be filled with laughing children and bustling mothers, hurrying to meet the planes returning from the tribes. Now, it's silent. A reminder of days gone by. It's a bittersweet reality for the people who have lived there, but what a joyous reunion they will have in heaven!
Ate Bebe, who once lived at Nasali, now has a quiant little house close by where she lives by herself. She cooks over an open flame and takes bucket baths, but she lives contentedly filled with the love of God. She is such a lady! I really enjoyed getting to know her. She, my two roommates, Ate Bebe's cousin, and I traveled around, seeing the sights and visiting friends and family. We had a relaxing time and a fun time.
The mountains and country are gorgeous. I loved getting to see the countryside and feel the cool breezes in the mountains. I really got a better look at the Philippine culture! and what a blessing it was!