One month from today, I will be on an airplane to the Philippines with the Compassion Bloggers. I haven’t talked about it much yet, mainly because I haven’t a clue what to say. But a few weeks ago, Kat (who will also be on the team) asked me a few questions about my decision to go, and I answered them. She has posted the interview today, and if you can pull yourself away from the Royal Wedding coverage, I’d love to see you at her place today.
Happy birthday, Emily! I Hope you have a really special day! Celebrating that God made you YOU today!
Shilo´s last [type] ..My Beautiful Family
Thank you so much, Shilo! How kind.
Emily´s last [type] ..the grace of art
Happy Birthday, Emily! I hope you have enjoyed your special day!
Jamie @ Six Bricks High´s last [type] ..Five Minute Friday- If I Knew I Could- I Would…
Happy & Blessed Birthday, dear one! Nope, I don’t know you personally, but I feel your spirit in my heart &hear you speaking to my soul in your writing. Always. I’ve told you that so many times you’re sick of it
but it’s true. Your gifts to me make me wish I had something to give in return. All I can offer is my wish for you to keep loving what you do &who you are, and to keep your beautiful heart&eye for beauty&art in everything. Ask your dear family to hug you for me? 
-s- (ps-still struggling with my art&situations, and thank you for keeping me working toward it…)
My parents are from the Philippines and I grew up Catholic. I became a believer 10 years ago and since becoming a blogger, have found other Christ-following bloggers in the Philippines.
But from what I remember, most people there hold on to empty traditions (praying to idols-Santo Nino.) My hope is that they will move toward authentic Christ-filled worship. May you be a blessing to them Emily!
Suzanne´s last [type] ..House HuntingAgain
Happy birthday, one day late! I’m so glad you’re stepping out in faith, away from fear. It challenges me. Thank you, already.
Alie´s last [type] ..on missing before you leave
I am confident you will fall as deeply in love with the beautiful people of the Philippines as I have. I have learned that Jesus resides outside our “camp” of comfort. Trusting you will meet him there.
Blessings from Hong Kong,
Kim
Wow Emily, that is exciting. I hate the fear that creeps in with trips like this. I had the opportunity to travel to El Salvador with Compassion and the fear was there, but I kept reminding myself that our God is a God of love, fear does not come from him, prayed and pushed on. I have found with trips like this that the fear is worse before I leave and once I’m on my way, the fear goes too. I will be looking forward to following your trip. We have a sponsor child in the Philippines (our first sponsor child!) so it is near and dear to my heart!
Megs´s last [type] ..Wordless Wednesday – You Never Know Where Thomas will Turn up
are you kidding me? THE compassion bloggers trip?
OH
MY
WORD
you are my hero miss emily
how incredible. i think that is just incredible!!!!!!
paige´s last [type] ..what a magical day!
It’s so exciting that you are going Emily! The islands are sooo beautiful, as are the people. I was there many years ago….actually met Matt Gregory there before I attended CIU. Too funny! Be sure to have tissues handy as soon as you get off the plane. You will want them as soon as you start riding through the city. The children….everywhere….all so precious.
Hey Emily! I’ve been reading all about you on incourage and another blog (can’t remember the name). I’m excited for you and all God’s going to show you and teach you while you’re so far out of your comfort zone. I’m sure you’ve talked with Judy E- who is always so encouraging, loving and full of wisdom about life.
I’ll be praying for you and your team! Gosh it’s coming quickly!!
Katie´s last [type] ..Chatty Zach
I read your post on Kat’s blog. Thank you for your honesty! I can’t wait to see what God does.
Hi Emily. I’m very proud of the decision you made. God truly has a way of making things workout. I grew up in the Philippines. Infact, I just got back right before Easter. My mom who is also Emily, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and ended up in ICU after first chemo. Like you I had to leave hubby and kids behind. Yes, I get my cold sweaty hands and feel nauseated everytime there was turbulence. I took Philippine Airlines which left LA at 10pm then I arrived in the Philippines at 6:30am … it’s like I just slept super long for the night.
You’ll enjoy the Philippines. People speak English. So, it won’t be difficult to communicate. Weather is humid and it’ll start raining when you’re there. Lots of bug spray. Since its your first time make sure to drink bottled water. Hopefully mangoes will still be in season. Which part of the Philippines will you be going to? Enjoy your trip and God bless.
I’m from the Philippines (but soon will be moving to the US) and Im glad to know that you’re going to my country to minister to people..may the Lord bless you as you go, may He speak to your heart even as you come back home =)
Hi Emily. I used to follow your blog faithfully but realized I hadn’t been here for a while. Followed some links today that led me back and read about your upcoming trip to the Philippines. Good for you! My husband and I adopted our son from the Philippines. I still remember that trip to meet him and bring him home as being both long and surreal. I’ve been looking at pictures of Compassion children from the Philippines, and I’ve been working toward sponsoring one from there–in honor of my sweet boy whom I love with all my heart. Will be checking back with you regularly now to read more about your experience. Thank you for doing this. Blessings to you.
Nancy´s last [type] ..Taking Time to Smell the Lilacs