October 12 - This would be my last post of my vacation to the Philippines; however, I intend to keep and update this blog site with my other future trips.

I spent my remaining time with my family, visiting and reminiscing the good old days with my sister and brothers (back when we were still young); and of course, eating native foods at the same time was also part of that. (I think I’ve gained a few pounds - not a good thing.) Wish I could stretch the time longer, but my two-month vacation is now over, and it is time for me to go back to my Mahal, who is patiently waiting for me.

There were places I wanted to see yet, such as Corrigedor and Cebu, but the weather was the hindrance; therefore, I wasn’t able to do what I had planned. I was told that starting August through part of November is "habagat" season, and it’s not the best time for riding a boat/ship because of the strong wind and frequent heavy rainfall. There is always "next time" to see these places, but I don’t know when that would be, though.

Also, I have a couple of pictures that I’ve taken when we went to Sta. Cruz and Quiapo church. I almost did not recognize the area in Quiapo as it wasn’t as crowded as I can remember. The streets from Sta. Cruz to Quiapo looked clean, and there were fewer street vendors, selling fresh flowers, rosaries, candles, and other things. I even noticed that some parts of the streets were made of bricks, just like downtown’s old market – what an improvements!


Sta. Cruz Plaza, going to Quiapo Church


The Quiapo Church (also known as the "Church of the Black Nazarene" and, in Tagalog, as the "Basilika ng Nazareno") houses a large black wooden statue of Christ bearing the cross (the "Black Nazarene"). This crucifix was carved in Mexico and was brought to the Philippines from Mexico by Spanish galleon in 1767. It is said to have miraculous powers. On Fridays thousands of Catholic devotees may be seen inside the church edging forward on their knees towards the crucifix.

Overall, it was an awesome vacation! I was very happy to see my family, relatives, and some of my friends. Also, I was able to help my nieces and nephews set up their computers and get them working properly for them. Of course, they were delighted and very appreciative. Now, I’ll be able to communicate with some of them online and through the “webcam.” (Thanks to my husband, who made this trip possible for me. Love you, Hon, and thanks for everything!)

I gave up on uploading some pictures. This computer is very slow, and it's taking me forever to upload one picture. Need to get some sleep now for my big trip back home tomorrow.

FYI - I leave Manila on Saturday, October 14 and arrive in Kansas City in the afternoon on the same day - isn’t that amazing, huh? I hope you enjoyed my blog. See you all and bye for now!