Taiwan

"Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to Taipei. Thank you for flying with Philippine Airline, I hope you enjoy your stay." After a hop, skip, and jump I had arrived. As I headed out the plane and through the airport, an older woman noticed me (being one of the only other white people off our flight) and came over to ask where I was going. I soon discovered she was from Holland, and so we switched over our conversation into dutch- something which I didn't expect to use in Taiwan! I didn't talk to her for too long before Adelle came, and we exchanged our first hug in two years! :)
She gave instructions to the taxi driver which I didn't understand- it was all Chinese to me- and off we went. I kept commenting on how clean and nice everything was, and Adelle had to laugh at me. It wouldn't be what people from back home would note, however, coming from the Philippines...
We had a great weekend together, zipping around the city on her scooter. I was there from Saturday till Tuesday, and we got a lot packed into that time. Adelle took me out of the city to a high point were we could see the mountains and water- it was beautiful. I especially enjoyed the weather. I was good to step out of this humidity box and enjoy the fresh, cool air.
We ate out pretty much the whole time, as it is very inexpensive and the options are endless. I almost made the mistake of tipping the cook. Adelle saved me and quickly explained that tipping anyone was inappropriate seeing it was money they had not worked for... Oh the joys of learning different cultures! :) I immediately wanted to learn the Chinese word for thank you, "Shay shay." I figured if I at least knew that one I would be safe. :) Adelle also took me to see a Buddhist temple (AMAZING work of art!); a tourist place where they sell jewelery and pottery; and downtown Taipei. On the Sunday morning I had the privilege of meeting with her church family, many of which were ironically Filipino. On Monday I was able to watch her teach both of her classes, and meet her adorable students. In order to practice their English, Adelle got each of her kindergarten kids to say something nice to me. "SaRAH--you--are--eCELlent!" :)It doesn't surprise me how attached Adelle is with them- they are so precious! I asked one little girl how she was doing, and without cracking a smile she said, "I--am--happy!" :) :) I was so glad to see that key part of Adelle's life in Taiwan.
Well, like everything in life, my trip to Taiwan came to an end. Before I knew it, we were hugging goodbye at the airport. Thank you Jesus, that one day His children will never have to say goodbye again. As our plane touched down in Davao, my mind raced with everything I need to finish up here, the biggest being the final exam. I pray to God that I will finish well. He's been with me all along and has brought me this far, I know He will remain faithful till the end.

Just another little tidbit of my life. :)
"Till next Time"
SH