Ladies Day Out.

Over the weekend, we attended another fellowship with the ladies from our church (MVBBC), but this time it was outdoors. We actually spent the day at farm (not too far from Angeles) that raises caribou, chicken, and tilapia. In case you were wondering, we did not go for a field trip…just for a swim.:-) The man who owns this farm used the underground springs that were on his land and built a fresh water pool.


Some of the ladies organized several group games to play before lunch and swimming. They introduced some unique games that we enjoyed playing and just might use for future games at our house.:-) During the games, many of the ladies jumped with excitement when they lost, because then they could move to the shade and avoid the sun. Unlike many Americans, Filipinos prefer to have lighter skin rather than to have a tan. We always get so tickled seeing them flock to the shade when the sun comes out.:-)

The ladies each brought a Filipino dish to share for lunch. Everyone ate the traditional way, using their good ‘ole built-in utensils—hands.:-) One side dish included sliced green mangos and singkamas (known as hicama in the States). The Filipinos informed us that they traditionally dip the green mangos and singkamas in bagoong, which is a salty shrimp paste. We were brave enough to try a small bite….it tastes as strong as it smells.:-)

While most ladies and girls swam, some mingled in the shade or played board games. It was impossible to visit near the pool without getting splashed. A few moms and daughters tried to convince spectaors to join in on the fun by splashing them from the pool or by running up and giving them a nice, wet bear hug. :-) Mom and Mrs. Ponio came up with a solution; they just shielded themselves with an umbrella.:-)

The pool felt so refreshing and almost everyone swam the whole afternoon. At one point, several girls wanted to play the game called chicken fight. Playing with girls can get interesting. Let’s just say some people almost lost their hair in the midst of the fun!:-) We had fun though.



The ladies who did not swim enjoyed watching the swimmers, especially Mrs. Lim (the lady with the hat). She was the enthusiastic scorekeeper for those playing the chicken fight. She almost provided more entertainment than game players!



At the end of the day, we came back tired from the heat, swimming, and other activities, but….it was a memorable day and a blessing to spend more time with our Filipino friends.:-)