Happy Birthday to Little Rosie

While shopping for fruit and vegetables in the downtown market Saturday, we spotted (or rather he spotted us) one of our YSA's attempting to get our attention.   Titiko Mateimacava, a rather quite and unassuming young man, ran to our van and asked if we would like to attend a birthday party for his niece who was celebrating her 1st birthday.   We looked at each other and said; "why not?"   First, we must explain that birthday celebrations by tradition here in Fiji are only really celebrated on the 1st and 21st birthday's.  

Since this was a first for us, we had no idea what to expect.  At the appointed time, we met Titiko at the Nasori Ward Chapel and he directed us to his home.   Only Titiko, his mother and brother are members of the Church.   The elder brother served a mission in the California - Santa Rosa Mission.

Little Rosi - Age 1 Holding a Chicken Leg

The Birthday Girl, Rosie, is being raised by her Aunt - Leba (pronounced Lemba) while her mother and father have moved to Australia for work.

This is not an unusual tradition here in Fiji.   Family associations can be vary diverse sometimes.   There is never a lack for a place for one more.   This custom is something that we from the U. S. could learn from.

At the party were grandma's, step grandpa's, aunts, uncles, cousins and two pelage (pronounced "pelongee") senior missionaries.    At first we felt a little intrusive and out of place, but it didn't take long before Elda Peterson was invited to sit with the men outside around the kava bowl to sit and talk.  Nope, no kava for me and they respected my beliefs.  Sista Peterson, meanwhile stayed inside and played with the little ones and socialised with the women while the meal was prepared.

Grandma Peela in her element with the kids

They had fixed a nice lovo dinner.   We had to admit, it was best tasting lovo we've had since we've been here.   And they sent us home with containers of left overs.

"Happy Long Life to You"

In Fiji they sing "Happy Birthday To You" just like we do but they add the verse:
"Happy Long Life to You" using the same tune and a big:
Hip, Hip Hooray at the end cheered three times.

The little ones love it.   We have fun too.

They Don't Come Any Cuter!

The weather was rainy so most everything was indoors.
The homes are cozy and simple.
They love to make us feel warm and welcome and special.

Birthday Cake Comes Before the Dinner - Yeah Baby!   Dessert First!

This is an example of the simple toys the children play with.  Some plastic duckies and popsicle  sticks.  (Note to Grandma and Grandpa. . . . . )

Elda Peterson was asked to pronounce the blessing on little Rosie.  This is an honour to be asked to be the spokesperson for the family in this event.  

The Family Honoured us for attending and providing the blessing for little Rosie by gifting us this beautiful woven mat.