First few days...

By Amanda:

Flying over? Maybe Alaska? It was literally so beautiful to my eyes after a few hours of sleep. I woke up to look outside upon a dream. The snow covered mountains are not done justice from this picture. Also something I could not get a picture of was the ice covered bodies of water we flew over. Beautiful.

As I gazed upon the snow below I began to feel that I could be happy almost anywhere in the world. Because regardless if it is a chaotic city, beautiful beaches, or snow cover mountains there is always hope to be found in the nature that God has provided for us. I try to not be saying "Jesus is awesome!" so much these days, because sometimes all people see then is someone who is perfect or hypocritical (neither I want to embody). I want to be living my life in such a way that God sees my heart and knows the desires of my heart. In the secret of my heart I want to worship God, where no one else can see or hear my praises. It feels more real that way. Although of course praising God in all ways is important. 

Anyway, sorry to get sidetracked - this is streaming consciousness, I finally got a computer and can type fast and distract myself from taking an afternoon nap after all the dumplings we ate today. Yum. 

We showed you some of the orchids already but here are a few more picks from the Taiwan Airport. It was so beautiful.

We got picked up by C.C. at the airport and got stuck in some traffic because of a huge truck was laying over the median. It was fun to get to chat with C.C. and share all the exciting details of life. We got home to see Enzo and Roman getting ready for bed. Then C.C., Steve, Sarah, and I all went out for some street food in the "Honda parking lot" which was delectable. And got to try some of Tiger beer from Singapore. So good. Different food makes me happy. Then we went to the mall for some of the best ramen, ever, according to C.C. and Steve. I was not disappointed. Though I was a little sad that my stomach would not allow for more of the noodles to be consumed. Pickled plum. Not bad. It was so fun just to quickly catch up and then off to bed. Sarah was a bit delusional at this point. Made me laugh. 

Also Sarah loved the sushi aisle at the store. And we got scolded for taking pictures.

Started off day 2 with a play date with some of the kiddos friends. Not what I expected from my South East Asia adventure. But it was a lot of fun. I always remember what a joy children are when I spend time with them. They are a lot of work, but such a blessing. Then street food with C.C.'s friend Chris, which was delicious. See photo below. Also went to the mall near the Petronas Twin Towers and looked around at jewelry and shoes. Tempting and I do not even wear jewelry that much. While there I got this delicious passion fruit bubble tea with coconut jellies. I would drink this every day if I could. I realized it might be my Turkey Hill  Iced Tea (If you are not aware of this, Seth, my finance is obsessed with Turkey Hill Iced Tea). Went to the Petronas Twin Towers. Tallest twin towers in the world. Done. Later, we went swimming in the pool with the kids which was a lot of fun. I love to swim. C.C. made delicious falafels and salad for dinner while we chatted about family like true Boriquas. Snuggled into the covers for another tired night. 

Day 3 began with coffee. Lots of coffee and a relaxed morning. Traveled to have Bible study with some of C.C.'s friends and then dumplings, sweet and sour chicken, fried pork, noodles, and rice for lunch. Also barley water, which was fantastic. Stuffed! I am fighting a nap right now. In the hopes that I will stay on a good schedule for the rest of the trip. Started off strong. I am enjoying my time so far. Barely enough time to miss anyone. Though I think of you all often in the smallest details of my life. I think, "Oh, I wish I could tell (fill in the blank) this. Or they would love this, I need to remember to tell them when I get back." Or I am just laughing at a joke someone has said and thinking about the fact that I am so incredibly blessed. For a long time, I was praying to God telling him that I love him and trust him despite not feeling him or knowing when the hard things in life would end. And now, I continue to feel that God's goodness is literally chasing me.

I know that this trip will most likely bring trials and tears, along with blessings and laugher. I continue to be so thankful for all the people in my life that have encouraged me and made this trip possible for Sarah and I. We love you all! 

Cannot figure out how to get the pictures under text. Sorry.