Our good byes from the MTC and from Home were bitter sweet. We were able meet our language instructor, Lokahi and his wife and new little baby - Mele Nila Vuikadavou. We are so grateful for all of his hard work and patience with us. He has since moved on to another job after graduating from BYU. The language training for Fiji will miss him.
Our Language Training Instructor Lokahi, his wife Mary and their baby.
The Farewell Party - Thanks for coming to the airport guys. We loved seeing you.
Sister Pete waiting to catch some shut eye on the flight.
The Fun Traditional Greeting at the Fiji International Airport in Nadi
As we post this session, it is Sunday afternoon here in Fiji. We made it! After almost missing our flight due to me being picked out to forego the TSA Pre-check that we spent so much time and a little money obtain, I was required to go through regular screening. Well, the line at Delta screening was almost out the door! I ran to the gate only to hear the gate agent calling for us to report to the counter. Sister Pete sailed right through screening and was waiting for me.
As we did so, she asked for our visa's to travel to Fiji. Visa? What visa? If we needed one, the Church did not ask or provide for one. We produced our work letter from the Fiji government. Something told me when I was packing to put that letter in a handy location. After making many phone calls, she informed us that this would suffice. OK - Blood Pressure now begins to flow closer to normal. Other than that, our flights were smooth and connections were made without too much hassle.
HOWEVER. . . . . once we arrived, we were informed that our apartment that we were anticipating moving in to, was not available. Huh? Oh, really! Apparently, a couple living here in Fiji (members) from Canada had returned home for some medical treatment. In the meantime, our predecessors (the Tennis's) lived there while they were serving for the past 18 months. Before we arrived, we had spoken to several missionaries who told us it was the nicest flat in the mission. Not to be though as the couple wanted their digs back.
For the time being, we are "camped out" at another missionary couples flat while they are traveling. We cannot really unpack, so we are a little confined and confused. We have been promised that something would be ready this week.
Lesson Learned Here - be patient and flexible. Things don't always work out the way we anticipate.
We have met with our mission president, President Klingler. He has assigned us to attend the Lami 2nd Ward. It is about 10 minutes form Suva.
President & Sister Klingler from Mesa, AZ. They will be released next July.
The Traditional Chocolate Chip Cookie Dunk Lesson After Orientation.
We are now on a "reduced" time clock. Ha Ha
Feeling a little frustrated and weary, we went to church and had a great experience. All the YSA came running to meet us. We finally felt welcome. There were even some who came from other wards just to meet the New Petersons. They are beautiful people and we can't wait to get to know them better. We know that they will change our lives forever. Can't wait for tomorrow!!!
No comments:
Post a Comment