the end of the adventure

After our hike up Mount Puting Bato, we climbed back on those motorcycles 

and headed down toward civilization. 

I felt relieved to hit flat paved roads again.

We stopped at a sari sari for something to drink (bottom left)

and then headed on toward Hagimit Falls.

Michael takes the plunge at Hagimit

 We spent a refreshing hour at the falls,

enjoying the cool water and the peaceful setting.

This little girl (bottom right) sold us cold drinks.  

She was so sweet, I asked if I could take her photo.  

I love how she's framed by all the colorful goods for sale.

It had been a high-energy morning, and it was time to head home.

We said good bye to our trusty motorcycle drivers

and boarded a little ferry boat (below, right) homeward.

Elise and Amy baked a fabulous chocolate cake and served it up that evening for my birthday.

And Amy's birthday gift to me summed up how we all felt after our adventure...

There's No Place Like Home.

"Maybe that's the best part of going away for a vacation - coming home again."

-Madeleine L'Engle

Amy crafted this piece for me using a paper-cutting technique called scherenschnitte.  
The patience required for such precision cutting is beyond my comprehension, 
but I'm loving my beautiful gift!  Thank you, Amy!