Taal

Dear Family and Friends,

Last weekend the Pyles and us arose early on Saturday morning and drove to Taal (this is a volcano about an hour and half south of Manila).  This volcano is quite interesting in that is sits inside a lake and has a lake inside of it – as well.  It is about 2 thousand feet in height, so we rode a small outrigger boat of about 45 minutes to the island, rode small ponies to the top of the volcano, walk around a bit, than rode the ponies down again, rode the same outrigger boat back to shore, where we had started.  My pony was small by any American standards and struggled taking a “fat guy” like me to the top of the volcano rim.  Not only did my pony have to take me to the top but my guide jumped on behind me while we rode to the volcano’s rim.  My poor horse, was huffing and groaning all the way, and was so grateful when we arrived at the top.  I’m sure my horse was not happy when I returned to ride him again to the bottom.  I think most of you how much I love heights, so walking around up at the volcano rim was somewhat limited by me but everyone else - walked freely around to the various hot spots where the volcano was leaking gases and some steam.  The vegetation all about on the sides and on the top were somewhat greenest, but with a bit strange in color.  Since it rains so often in the Philippines, there is nearly nowhere where vegetation won’t grow, no matter how challenging the environment.  The lake around the volcano was normal, with waves and water a bit rough – that morning, but the water (lake) inside the volcano is colored a little strangely and had a slight smell of sulfur about it.  On the way over to the island we had a slight rain and the waves were joining us in the boat, so staying dry was impossible.  After arriving on the island the rain stopped, but the humidity was high with it having just rained. The return trip back on the boat was even wet, with my jeans becoming entirely soaked.  I wore a raincoat (small, light poncho) but it only covered a small portion of my overall body. In short, I loved everything and the overall experience was very memorable. I would recommend it this stop to everyone who come and/or have to time to do it.  Additionally, the company was great and the travels very enjoyable.  See pictures (enclosed).

May the Lord bless everyone.

Love to everyone, Elder Morello