Christmas Eve at the Mission Home

Many of the missionaries serving close to the Mission Home came over for lunch and a few activities. It helped us stay busy and not miss our own families back home too much.



Elders and Sister Webre had fun putting together a gingerbread house that was sent to us by Sister Bank's mother. Complete with all the pieces and candy.



Elder Bates was hired as the structural engineer. He put all the pieces together and made sure the house could stand. He and Elder Miller texted us earlier that day saying they had gotten on a jeepney and accidently found their way to Cauayan. Of course, we invited them to come and join us.



Elder Del Mundo and Elder Cabanacan jumped right in to add their special touches, despite the fact that they had never seen a gingerbread house before.



These missionaries were so creative. They added a slide and a decorated tree and path.

We were proud of their great work! I think we'll eat it on New Year's Eve.

  

President Carlos made his delicious egg rolls, rice and yummy fresh pineapple.








After lunch we played a rousing game of Apples to Apples.   




Elder Moffat, in the sweater, was able to join in the fun despite having Dengue Fever.



We sang Christmas carols. Sister Webre played the piano for us.

We were visited by Santa's special little filipino elf, Elder Cabanacan. He was so excited to be taller than the snowman.

Later that night, our friend Vilma brought her nieces and nephews over to sing us Christmas Carols. They enjoyed seeing the Gingerbread House and we found some candy to pass out to everyone.

The children loved looking at all the Nativity Scenes we had scattered around the Mission Home. What a wonderful way to celebrate our first Christmas Eve in the Philippines.