Our August Miracle

Yesterday, Saturday, was a very big day for us. Not only did I drive into Manila solo (I know you're impressed), but I did so to pick up our new car! We are the proud owners of a 2003 Ford Ranger XL (the picture above is a newer model, but basically the same car). While I was doing that, however, our shipment arrived--even bigger news. Our shipping container with our entire household made it through customs in a single day. Next to the immaculate conception, that's pretty much the biggest miracle you can ask for in the Philippines.

So, we've worked all day to unpack and organize our stuff, and the place is starting to really feel like home--well, like our home if a giant picked up the entire townhouse, shook it around a bit next to his ear just to see what was inside, and then set it down again like a kid who no longer cares about his newest toy. Given the state of disorder inside, it looks quite a bit like this happened. But we're getting there!

The only problem we have had recently is that Jaya seems to have a pinched nerve in his spine. He lets out a loud yelp every time he pushes himself too hard when running or jumping. So, not being people to ignore our dog in his hour of need, we sought out proper medical advice. In the Philippines this means we were able to get a veterinary orthopaedic surgeon to make a house call on a Sunday. He gave us some meds, good advice, and a whopping $25 bill. Jaya is starting to see the wisdom of moving here.