Mayon Eruption 2006

Beginning in mid-July, Mt. Mayon became quite active. For several weeks solid, we saw lava flow every night. The alert level was eventually raised to Level 4, out of 5 possible levels. Although those around us assured us that Legazpi City wasn't in any immediate danger, our family decided to "evacuate" to Manila for a while. We stayed there for about 2 1/2 weeks before deciding to return home. Although we did take our own pictures, these pictures from the internet were much better than ours.

4th Anniversary in the Philippines

On September 10th, we celebrated the 4th anniversary of our arrival here in the Philippines!

We arrived in Manila in 2002 with Robert, Connie, Jamin and Jesse Murphy.

Each year around this time, we try to get together with the Murphys for a little bit of R&R.

This year, we met in Manila for a few days in August.

Caleb, Jamin, Jesse and Carly sitting on the seawall of Manila Bay

Here we were in the LA airport 4 years ago. Wow -the kids have grown so much!

The new SM Mall of Asia - our hangout place during our vacation! It's the 3rd largest mall in the world. It has an Olympic-size ice skating rink and an 8-story IMAX theater!

But the best thing at the Mall of Asia is the food! We actually found a Cajun restaurant and I ordered Shrimp Kabobs. Almost tasted like home.

Whenever we spend time with the Murphys, it seems we always end up at a bowling alley.

Caleb with the Murphy crew

Caleb with his buddy, Jamin

We were also excited to visit the Philippines' first Toys R Us!!

Whew! Too much shopping for Caleb!

Thank you, Lord, for 4 wonderful years serving You in this place.

We pray this is only the beginning.

Kirby Turns Two

On August 5th, Kirby celebrated his 2nd birthday. Kirby is the son of Bong and Nueca Duran, some of our ministry team. Here are a few pictures of our birthday party!

Too much excitement for one little boy!


A few days later, Kirby came to my house and had some chocolate cupcakes!

He wasn't too sure about blowing out a candle.

But he didn't have any problems with the cupcake!