March 10/2019

March 10/2019

Well it’s been quite a week, Elder Cameron and I caught the Samoan flu bug and have been sick now for several days but are thankfully returning to the land of the living. It’s been a slow process but are grateful for thoughts and prayers. More and more I’m grateful for my wonderful husband and how he takes such good care of me and is so patient with me!

We spent several days in American Samoa doing some teaching and facilitating about the Eat Healthy and Be Active program. We are hoping that we can get this program going so that when we leave the service missionaries can take over and continue on. It’s such an important program for the Polynesian people as Type 2 Diabetes is extremely high and American Samoa has the highest number of all Polynesian Islands according to stats. 

We were able to take some Home Ec supplies out to the school that burnt down and do some more school site visits. With time going by so quickly and we just received our last container of school equipment we want to make sure that it goes to the neediest. We aren’t sure if there will be to many more containers coming after we leave which is a bit of a disappointment because there are still so many kids still needing desks and chairs.

In my last blog, I talked about Emele’s Fale, I am so excited to tell you that things are moving along and it won’t be long before Emele and her children will be in their new home. Still a few more things to do but we are so thrilled with the progress that has been made so far.

With that wonderful news our hearts were saddened by this families hard times. Leo and his wife and 3 daughters ages 2,5 and 13  live in the home below which is located in a swamp by a Grove of mangroves on the coast, and the picture with the sheets is their shower. We knew that we needed to help them in some way and plans are now underway to provide help this family. 

 More and more I am grateful for all I have and how the Lord continues to bless our lives and the lives of our families. I read this message today from my sister and am always grateful for the gentle reminders. “I was watching the sunrise this morning (a little early morning meditation) and feeling very blessed even in this winter cold but knowing soon the signs of spring and new life will begin.”

We had a Umu (traditional Samoan cooking) this past week, the Welfare Farm Team did the cooking for the Senior missionaries, they really enjoyed it and were able to see first-hand how Samoans still do most of their cooking.

Little #2 Pig

Ali has a new profession, official neighbourhood dog patrol, way to keep those pets safe Ali! Lots of family involved with basketball playoffs this past couple weekends and some are off to Zones, we wish you all good luck. It’s great to see the kids now doing the coaching and doing a great job. They must’ve had amazing coaches growing up!

This quote is for the grandkids because I think you are all truly one of a kind, and I love and appreciate each one of you!

I’m really enjoying the Come Follow Me lessons, this past week lesson, “Thy Faith Hath Made Thee Whole” Lesson 10, Matthew 8-9 and Mark 2-5.

If you want to spend a day in the Life of the Savior read Matthew 9.

I was touched by the Savior’s love and compassion for all. The many miracles he performed all the great teaching moments! I think of the many miracles and tender moments we have seen since being on our mission. I’ve seen the Lord’s hand help and guide us many times to where we needed to be and who was in need of our help and service. There are still miracles all around us, just as important as the mighty miracles are the smaller private and personal ones. They have strengthened my faith and my testimony that God and our Savior live, they hear and answers our prayers and that they care about each one of us.

I hope your week will be full of little miracles (like some warmer weather) and you will be able to recognize where they come from. Love you all!

Remember to Be Kind and Be Happy!