"We go the extra smile.”

"We go the extra smile.” is the welcome slogan at the international terminal in Manila's Ninoy Aquino Int'l Airport.  Despite the long lines through immigration, and after some 20+ hrs of travel, reading the sign did indeed make me smile - I am now in the Philippines.

Even at close to midnight the airport was bustling with activity, the traffic outside was moving yet it was a lot busier than I expected for the hour - lines of taxies, jeepneys, business, motorcycles, you name it...  Got to the hotel and am hoping the air conditioning kicks in soon as it is as hot and humid as expected.

I caught up on my Philippines history and government, Cebu City information, and Project Management Best practices readings, and am ever so eager and ready to meet our clients on Mon and start our joint project - what a tremendous opportunity.

On the flight from Portland, I was sitting next to a retiree from the Center for International Development and I'll never forget how she lit up when I told her where I was headed, as she couldn't overemphasize how much business volunteering makes real difference... and thank me.  I am the one full of gratitude and pride, as I feel truly privileged to serve on the Corporate Service Corps, and now I am here, in the land of smiles...

Next up... is getting to meet my IBM team face to face - after several months of calls I feel like I know everyone already, and look forward to building strong bonds and life-long friendships over the next few weeks!