Beautiful Philippines! Bambanti Festival and San Mariano

We are blessed to be serving in a truly beautiful part of the world.  President Rahlf and I never tire of seeing the countryside and scenes from our mission.  The last week of January, we visited the Bambanti Festival in Ilagan with Elder and Sister Shorter and Elder and Sister Honeycutt.  It's a big celebration with amazing creations and lots of dancers. Hope you enjoy these beautiful sights--

“'Bambanti' is the Ilocano word for scarecrow. Though scary, Bambanti has been the sentinel or guardian of the fields which farmers attributed their good harvest of rice and corn, the prime agricultural product of Isabela. The Scarecrow, in the pervading pop culture, is often perceived as unusual, frightening, and an object of curiosity. In reality however, the Scarecrow remains a beneficial component of the agricultural sector. Faithfully serving as the guardian of the crops, its unwavering presence witnesses the stages of growth and generous yield that sustains the livelihood for the agricultural community. Standing tall and proud, the Scarecrow personifies the agricultural heritage of Isabela as it continues being the farmer’s ally in producing rice and corn, the region’s main products."

We ended the week in San Mariano.  The drive there is truly stunning and the life along the river is busy.  The best sight of all was a wonderful baptism.  It's  a joy to be living a missionary life!

"…my joy is full, yea, my heart is brim with joy, and I will rejoice in my God."

                                                                                                                       Alma 26:11