The end of January approaches, as does (hopefully) the end of typhoon season. Our most recent visitor, typhoon Amang, descended upon us without much of a warning and knocked out water and power for about a day. It seems like Sorsogon has been fortunate in regard to typhoons this year in that we haven't felt the full force of the recent ones. Although the storms can be a drag, I'm definitely appreciating the relatively cool weather of this time of year. I'm enjoying it as much as I can before the Summer arrives (March- June). Local Sorsoguenos have made a point to tell how brutal the heat can be during that time. Sounds like it might be the time for travelling. ;)
Anyway, here are some of my recent activities. For New Years Eve, a bunch of us volunteers got together in Cebu City for reuniting and merrymaking. Getting there and back was nothing short of an adventure, with overnight ferry rides and cramped jeepneys. I haven't taken the time to explain what a jeepney is, so here's a picture:
They're usually decked with all sorts of crazy pictures like this one. The thing about jeepneys is that they are always filled to MAX capacity. Including people stacked on the top and hanging off the sides. Needless to say the Peace Corps frowns upon us participating in such activities. But, I digress.
When I returned to Sorsogon for the new year I joined my coworkers in Legazpi City for the DSWD Regional Assembly. This was basically a get together for all the employees of the Department of Social Welfare and Development in the entire Bicol Region. It was done up in true Pinoy style, with folk dances, cheer dances, a singing competition, and beauty pageant called Gandang Babae/Lalaki (beautiful girl/boy). Sorsogon came in third overall but didn't actually place in any of the competitions (?). Here is a surreal snapshot of the pageant:
My coworkers continue to be awesome (for which I am very grateful) and now that my three month new-volunteer probation period is over I'll be able to travel around with them to see some of the beautiful places our province has to offer. I'm starting to really find my place in regard to my work, and language is becoming less of a struggle everyday. It feels like I am miles from where I started in September, but I know I still have a long journey ahead of me. 2015 looks like an adventure, and its hard to say where it will lead. Stay well everyone. Peace
