Got confirmation today that we have been granted child benefit so an extra 81.00 a month, woohoo. Unfortunately it's not being backdated though

We were a little worried as it wasnt clear we could claim as I have been in the Phils for 6 years and he was born there but neednt have worried.

Wife also ecstatic as we found a local shop selling Lucky Me noodles, Sky Flakes, Lipton's lemon ice tea powder and (unfortunately for my nose) dried fish. I remember exactly the same feeling when I found indian spices and Paxo stuffing in Cebu that I craved so really pleased for her, every little helps!

Previously promised photos of our trip will be posted soon.