Day 6 (Thursday): Mt Samat, Camayan Beach, and Calapacuan

We were so excited for this morning's activities, we are meeting the DeGuzman's and going to Mt. Samat.  Since week 13 of Jessica's mission I have wanted to go to Mt. Samat.  It is a World War II monument at the top of a mountain.  It is amazing in photos and I have wanted to see it in reality for over a year now.

We drove into Hermosa to meet the DeGuzman's at their house.  Also with them is Sister Buca and Tokurtinkuki Nemie.  It was about an hour to get there but it was worth the drive.

We climbed the steps to the monument and then went up further to the gigantic cross.  We walked around looking at the majestic view before standing in line to go to the top of the cross monument.  Up top you could see for miles.  It was at this sight that the allies defeated Japan in the Philippines.  It was a big turning point in the war.  We stayed there the whole morning and had to say Goodbye to our wonderful new friends before heading off.

We went back to the hotel for the afternoon - it was time to RELAX!  I'm so excited.  I have loved going around and meeting all these wonderful people Jessica met on her mission, but I have been aching to have some time on a beach in the sun.

I LOVE the beach - I just am drawn to it.  It's peaceful, relaxing and enjoyable to me.  We had a nice lunch and then laid out in the glorious sun.  Jessica and I took a swim out to a floating dock that was a fair ways off shore.  Mark stayed on the sand reading because he is battling a "Travelers cold."  We really enjoyed the afternoon.  I love having special time with Jessica just to talk and share ideas.

Betsy and Jessica on the floating dock

Enjoying the water

After dinner we drove over to the hospital to see if there was anyone on staff that Jessica knew.  The staff member recognized Jessica but said they were very busy in ICU and that she couldn't come back there.  It was good just to see the hospital where she stayed.