We have been here in the Philippines for a week now. The last time I came home was in 1993. Now, it's a total culture shock. First, it's the climate. Temps range in the 80s but very very humid. In a matter of minutes, you feel your skin getting real sticky. I don't remember the streets being so narrow either. Tricycles are everywhere competing with the passenger jeeps and private cars. Not to mention the buses and trucks. Pedestrians cross every where with no fear for their lives. I am reminded of the game Frogger. You literally have to cross and run for your life.

I also can't help notice the clear division between the extreme rich and the poor.

I've had the chance to meet up with my best friend in College and my other best friend in high school. Both have really made something of their lives. One is studying for her Masters in Applied Math and the other, a well known pediatrician here in our province. I am so proud of them.

Tuesday, we will have dinner with friends in Elementary school. Being in a small town, they have kept in touch with each other and have remained friends.

I have done some knitting but not a lot. Understandable.

I will post pictures when I can.

Circles Cloth

Mint Green baby boy Cardi This is a pattern from Mary Rich Goodwin of One Piece knitting.




These two baby sweaters are the Concentric Circles Cardigan, a free pattern on Ravelry. The pink one is larger than the pattern calls for. I made adjustments myself. This one goes to my niece Ava in Virginia Beach.

This last one is the Bubble Frock, also from Ravelry, perfect for Ava's summer wear.

I haven't knitted for babies in years and this is a good change.

My mom's marker came in, after 3 months of waiting. Somehow, this picture makes me sad. My dad, myself and the kids went there, rags in hand and went to clean. Freshly put in, it had mud and stain all over. The good thing about it is we now can put flowers ( as seen on the center of the marble marker). It comes with its own flower vase.

You see, we had this cat and mouse game with the caretakers of the cemetery. They don't allow potted plants, glass vases or any other kind of vases, balloons, or any other kinds of decorations. Every Wednesday, they throw out all the dead flowers as well as stuff on top of the graves. They also mow the grass. Or they mow the grass on Thursday. So, my sister and I make sure that we remove all our vases by Tuesday night or all will be gone by the following morning.

One time, we forgot. And they took it all away, including the nice pinwheels and flags. They can't stop me, though. Joann's has a lot of nice affordable decors. And I say, they can't stop me, he, he.