TALIKUD & NEW FRIENDS

TALIKUD BEACH

One day last week, we ventured out to explore one of a plethora of islands clustered along the shoreline of the Philippine Sea— accessible via a ferry ride and a few pesos. Rick had read on some unknown travel blog that Talikud Island was worthy of the trek. And it was.

As was typical of the other islands we have visited, the sand is silky, the breeze is cooling, the water temp is tepid, and so clear, you can visualize your tootsies. The clear, aqua waters are teeming with communities of exotically striped fish, multi-faceted starfish species with variations of markings and hues, and when disturbed, some unfriendly sea urchins, and oh so much more! 

OUR NEW BFFs

While arriving at the Talikud pier, we purchased our tickets, stood, and waited to embark on our voyage until we were allowed to board. As is typical of anywhere one might travel within the Philippines, you will ALWAYS meet and greet “new” friends given time and space for chika-chika. This was true of our excursion (really, it was a ferry).

Irick and Sherryll made our acquaintance within five minutes of our wait and proceeded to treat us with a “Taho” from a sidewalk vendor. Though the Taho looked a bit daunting, it was creamy and delicious—made of silken tofu, sago pearls, and brown sugar syrup (culturally—if it’s not fish or white rice, it will have some level of sweetness to it). 

After about an hour’s cruise,  we all disembarked and found a picnic area with tables under the shade where we could enjoy lunch, stack towels,  swimming paraphernalia, and store the inevitable “snacks.” For those savvy individuals bringing restaurant quality food options,  there were fire pits and grills for their cookery. 

 

We swam out, okay, waded out to the deeper waters where the gentle nudging of an occasional wave lulled us. Reality — not really a wave, but more of a waggle produced by a gentle movement of the tide. H.E.A.V.E.N.L.Y

Though one might be tempted to bask in such lushness . . . in our adapting to the extreme city temperatures and humidity, unless we were moving, we got chilled! Goosebumps and all!  I mean, that’s bat-crazy jive.  How can anyone be cold in water temperatures pushing 84 to 86 degrees? Yes. We. Did.

So we headed to the tables to warm ourselves and order some lunch.

I couldn’t help noticing that our new “besties” were occupying a couple of the grills for a substantial period of time while pulling out all of the stops in preparing the table for their feast. I mean, a fresh veggies bouquet as decor, salads, and large platters awaiting the fresh-grilled delicacies (we brought some crackers and peanut butter so I was infatuated by their lavish banquet). And, because I strive (often failing) to remember to compliment others when the occasion arises, I walked to the sumptuous-looking spread and confessed my astonishment at such a feat—on the beach, no less. 

And OF COURSE, we were invited to their elaborate meal, and silly us, we declined, stating we awaiting our lunch from the local eatery. Poor move.

Not even 10 minutes later, Sherryll walked to where we were seated, carrying tray of who-knows-what for our sampling pleasure. Let me tell ya—I am not really sure what all we ate, but we were compelled to consume everything we had been gifted–though most of the flavors and textures were foreign to our palates.  Some items were challenging to chew and swallow; nonetheless, we were deeply moved by their overture and reminded to be cognitive of those opportunities to invite others in, as Irick and Sherryll so beautifully modeled. 

A wonderful lesson learned down by the sea shore.

Sherry Gregory
Author: Sherry Gregory

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Comments (8)

  1. You kids are amazing!! Love the detailed experience and love the adventure… on land, sea and cuisine! Good job and looking forward to more updates!

    Lots of love sister!! Praying the adventure continues! You two are so cool!!😎🪭

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  2. What a beautiful story. Such experiences you are having. It brought to memory a trek on a beach in Cameroon to freshwater falls and stopping to gorge on spicy shrimp and grilled bread fruit at one of the outdoor, impromptu “restaurants” along the way. It brought back a great memory. Thanks for posting.

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  3. This is lovely!!! It looks like you’re on a tropical island… wait YOU ARE!! I hope you have opportunities to go to more places like this while there! Sounds like your new friends may have some suggestions for food choices! Next time you venture out maybe you will have a better idea of what to bring!
    Praying for you and Rick! Love you too!

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  4. Oh wow Sherry, what a beautiful place! It had to feel good to actually be chilled! So glad you were able to get out and enjoy not only the beautiful place but the people the Lord places in your path! Play on you 2 adventure seekers! Miss you and continuing to hold you up in prayer!

    Reply

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