Sweeping the tombs day

Wednesday (April 5th) was sweeping the tombs day. Perhaps somewhat similar to Memorial Day...although no parades with candy. People sweep the tombs of their ancestors, prepare alters, make their ancestors favorite foods, and offer sacrifices to the gods (food and money) for their loved ones safe passage in the afterlife. Its a national holiday here in Taiwan, so everyone gets the day off. After meeting with Bishop Lai at the Diocese Office, Jered and I had a free afternoon. We took advantage and went on a date! I thought I`d post some updated pics from our Wednesday excursion. Jered's hair has received feedback from our both our community here and our sending community in America. Here, I am told that I am lucky to have such a "manly/handsome" (these terms are interchangeable apparently) husband. Friends from college have said "Dude, that's dirt!" We`ll let you decide for yourselves:


Erin enjoying a treat: cappucino!


Jered in front of Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall, on our way to the Diocese office. Ever Wednesday afternoon Jered has to pass this monument on his way in to work for the Bishop.



Our student friend James who also is a waiter at the "Hello Kitty" Coffee Shop, a chain restaraunt based on the famous Japanese cartoon character of the same name. Many of you may have met James during our visit in Seattle.

Another student friend from our Seattle trip, AJ joins us for coffee in Hello Kitty.

Erin with "Lonely planet" in hand ready to tackle the world...or at least find where the nearest MRT station is.