July 5 - Traveling Again

Dear Family and Friends,

The weeks seem to fly by so fast! Kent and I have started to do more training and that means more travel. We love to get out of the city and into the provinces. I especially love seeing lots of green space. This country is so varied and beautiful.

We were able to assist with training that was held in Cauayan last week. It is always such a blessing to meet with the saints and feel of their willingness to learn and to serve the best they can. We are grateful that so many of those we work with are willing to do whatever they are called to do and do their best. There have been some changes with technology recently and the Stake Technology Specialists can really be a help to the Stake Presidents in making sure things are as they should be. Technology here is so different from the US. We are back in time about 20 years with spotty coverage and unreliable connections but the internet companies here are working to improve so they are moving in the right direction.

In our travels this week we were able to see the Banaue Rice Terraces. I've included a couple of pictures of those. These rice terraces are over 2,000 years old. The first terraces were made out of wood and caribao bones. Later as they built farther up the mountain, they used rock and mortar. The mountains all around the terraces are very steep. We are so impressed that they have been able to maintain them for so long. The people there are all related. Most are born there, live their lives there and die there but now more of the children are moving out. I hope enough stay so the terraces will be maintained. They really are breathtaking to see.The area is pretty remote. We found this pay toilet - check out the sign by the door. For 5 pesos you could use the facilities but it cost 10 pesos if you want toilet tissue.:) We love the Philippines!

In 2 Nephi 4:16 it says,'Behold, my soul delighteth in the things of the Lord; and my heart pondereth continually upon the things which I have seen and heard." when reading this recently, it brought to mind Elder Bednar's talk about tender mercies and Elder Eyring's talk about seeing the Lord's hand in our lives and recording it every day. As we ponder our days and see God's blessings upon us, we will feel His love more strongly. Even on the difficult days, we will know that God is watching over us and encouraging us.

We love you all -
The Tuckers