Me again!

Hi guys!!

Sorry it has been so long since I updated anything on here, life tends to move at a very slow pace in the Philippines but somehow the days just fly by. I suppose spending the last few days glued to a computer screen writing and checking transcriptions hasn't helped things! We've properly started to get into the swing of things here and working hard, Marvin and Lisa spending lot of time with a misfiring sewing machine (of which I am sure they'll tell more), me in front of a computer screen and Esther building networks and interviewing as many people as possible. Getting to know more and more people as the days go by...its getting increasingly hard to remember all the names and faces! I think we're all learning a lot though, not only about Philippino culture, history and politics but also what it really means to be out here and to be involved in the projects that we are, no matter how well you prepare yourself and plan its not until you get started and you see the situation on the ground that you really know what you've let yourself in for! It's all a learning curve that I think we are taking loads from. I am enjoying the work that is involved (though I might change my tune after 2 and a half months of it!) and my transcription skills have improved dramatically, I think I am taking about 5 hours for each hour of interview now, which is about right time-wise. I think I will improve as I do more though.
     Yesterday we went to another patch of mangrove in Ibajay as part of Lisa's project - I came along for the ride and to see some more of the country. That was amazing, a very different project but with many of the same principles such as an in-built appreciation of the importance of community involvement in every aspect of the park, from its foundation through to its daily running. Its really encouraging to see such enthusiasm for conservation and the maintaining of the countries natural resources so widepsread here. Afterwards we walked 4 kilometres to the next barangay (the Philippino name for each seperate village/community) and were treated to a botanical and biological mastrerclass of the local flora and fauna by Bulit, our guide, translator and general man in the know (who, when not with us, also has a job on the side as the Eco-Park manager). On this walk we went past quite possibly the most beautiful beach I have ever seen, this part of the world is so beautiful and I feel very lucky to be involved in this venture! (photos to come shortly hopefully).
      Still not used to the mosquito's and sun though, every morning we gasp in wonder at how hot and humid it is, you would have thought we'd learn by now! The mosquitos and ants also are very much appreciating our presence here as we have provided many a good meal for them so far, no matter how much repellent we apply.
     So, things are going good here, I'm sure Esther and Lisa can share more about how their projects are going but I think we're all looking forward to properly getting stuck into things over the next few weeks. I had better go now though as said mosquito's are eating me alive!