We had a couple of handover ceremonies this past week, one was a water tank to a school and one was rubbish shelves to a village. LDS Charities supplied the materials and the village supplied the man power. As is the custom, there were speeches,many grateful people and one little piggy did not live to see another day along with a chicken, a duck and a lobster. It is always interesting to me to watch the order of High Chiefs, Orators and the Matai's at these ceremonies. They all have special seats in the fales and certain orders that they speak. There are many customs and signs of respect that must be followed and shown. I'm always a bit concerned that one of these days I'm going to say or do something that could be taken wrong. They always just smile, shake our hands and kiss us on our cheeks and tell us over and over how grateful they are for the help they recieve from LDS Charities for thier village.
We had a crazy busy week but it was great. We have officially kicked off the Eat Healthy and Be Active program. After being involved in the Pilot program here it is now being offered to all stakes in the Pacific. We had 8 stakes want to start now for the 12 week program and hopefully the rest after Christmas. 3 were introduced in Upolu, we did 3 in Savai'i on Thursday and then we flew to American Samoa and did 2 Stakes there. We really enjoyed American Samoa. I have a little secret to share, we heard they have a Carls Jr. (hamburger place) there and that the burgers and fries were really good. They were so yummy, we ate so much, and then we went and taught the Eat Healthy and Be Active program. Too funny, but did we ever enjoy that indulgence.
We were invited to the West Stake Cultural Celebration in American Samoa. What a party that was!It was so much fun, the R.S. sisters from all the wards sang and danced in their culture dress it was amazing and such a great experience. I loved it. We were fed, there was so much food and so much variety, what a great morning, I love, love love the sisters here. This has given me an idea or two for a Relief Society party back home.
We met a couple the other night at the temple, they were palangi so we had an idea they were visiting. As it turned out they were from Canada, so I asked where they said Alberta ( now we're getting somewhere) They are from Magrath, yes! It was so good to talk to someone who knows family, they know Scott and Janelle, Cliff and Mary. They had great things to say about all as I knew they would. It is always great to hear wonderful things about family and touch base with fellow Canadians.
We saw pictures this week of kids starting school, Chase learing to ride a bike, Emma's homecoming,She looked beautful in her red dress and Congrats to Nate on another win in biking,WOW! My grandkids make me so proud. Winnie the Pooh seems to be big right now and I saw a quote and loved it. It made me think of my grandkids and I thought that this is some good advice.
More and more I see how important the gospel is in our lives, the stability and strength we can get from following the Savior. We have so many blessings in our lives and so many miracles like making it home from Pago, American Samoa on their little 16 seater plane.
I'm so grateful for the gospel and the many people that have helped and influenced me and the many that continue to do so at home and here on our mission. To be able to serve Our heavenly Father and Elder Brother is truly one of our greatest blessings. I love my Savior and all he has done for me. Elder Cameron and I continue to pray for guidance in doing his work and in helping those in need here in Samoa.
May you find joy in your journey and may you have the courage and the commitment to get to know the Lord and may feel of his blessings in your life.
We love and miss you,
Remember Be Happy and Be Kind!
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