On September 3rd, 4th and 5th we had the chance to travel to the resort city of Baguio. We travelled with another missionary couple. Baguio is about a 5 hour drive north of Manila and is high in the mountains. As I understand, back in WW II days Baguio was designed by a General in the US army as a retreat for US military personnel. We stayed in a Hotel named after the General it is called Camp John Hay. It was very nice. Because of the altitude, Baguio is much cooler than Manila. At night we slept with the window open and breathed fresh air; I even had to sleep under the covers. Also, at night we went to sleep to the sound of a fountain and crickets, instead of honking horns. It was such a contrast to where we now live. It was most refreshing.

While seeing some of the shops of Baguio this sweet little old lady walked down the street. If she could have stood erect, she would have been about 4 feet tall. As you can see she is doubled over making her about 3 feet tall. As in most instances, the picture does not accurately capture the scene but here she is anyhow. She was probably on here way back from the market with a small purchase that will likely be meals for the next few days.

While in Baguio we met the mission president of the Philippines Baguio Mission. President and Sister Jensen (on the right) were assigned to the mission on July 1st of this year. They are enthused with their assignment. As long as I can remember praying I have prayed for missionaries. Since our mission we have began praying for mission presidents and their wives. We had no idea the demands they face and what they go through. If missionaries are God's armies; mission presidents and their wives are the commanders. This was the view from our hotel room....as I said a sharp contrast to what we normally see from our apartment window in Manila.

One thing Baguio is known for is wood carvings. here is a picture of a local plying his trade. They do some beautiful work.

We went to a replica of a traditional village, here Patty is crossing a bamboo bridge...cross your fingers.

Baguio wasn't all beautiful scenery. It is a big city with close to 600,000 people. Homes have been built up most of the hill sides. Camp John Hay, where we stayed is off the beaten path and a bit more remote so we didn't have to deal with the crowds, the cars and the noise.

Because of the altitude, Baguio is called "the city in the clouds". On a clear day the backdrop here would have been a scenic valley. At the time of the photo it was grey day.

Patty enjoying some quiet time in the gazebo at the back of the hotel. Notice the heavy sweater she is wearing. It was likely about 20 degrees C. Brrrrrr that's a chilly day!!!!

Relaxing behind the hotel. Fresh air and a bit of quietness....just what the doctor ordered.

The two of us enjoying ourselves after dinner at Camp John Hay Hotel.