One month

I've been here for one month.  There are some things I miss.  There are other things I already know I will miss when I go home.

I miss my family and friends, but am happy for skype, texting, and facebook!
I miss home-cooked meals and having a refrigerator.
I miss having a comforter on my bed.
I miss having church in English, rather than mostly Tagalog with just occasional English.
I miss having a one-stop grocery store, rather than going to three different ones to get my few groceries.
Sometimes I miss air conditioning, mostly at school during late morning or at church.
I miss wearing my hair down and it not automatically sticking to my neck from sweat.
I miss having clean tap water.

I thought I would miss AC more, but once I get my comfy sporty clothes on I stop caring about sweat.  By the way, I do have AC in my room.
I thought I would miss having a flushing toilet, but really, it's not that big of a deal.
I thought I would miss having a car and/or easy transportation, but I've found it to be relaxing to walk.  I could choose to use a trike or motorbike, but walking is a good time just to think, even amidst the crowded roads.

I love walking out of the Jungle Barn in the morning and seeing a beautiful beach.
I love the kids, who remember my name and say hi even when I don't remember theirs.
I love the friendliness and hospitality of the Filipino people.
I love to see kids get excited about singing worship songs.
I love my students, even when they frustrate me.
I love the fact that I've been here one month and have been in the water four times.  The beach is great to enjoy sometimes, but it isn't why I'm here.
I love that sports is a universal language, and I have been able to build relationships with kids through volleyball and also met new people to play with.
I love my supporters, who helped me get here through prayer and/or financial support, and I love you for reading this :)
I love Jesus!!!  He is my reason for being here...He is my reason for living!

One month has flown by.  In some ways I want the following months to slow down so that I can savor every moment here!