At this moment all of our missionaries are sheltered in place until this major storm passes. (4 of them here at the Mission Home). Wind gusts up to 65 mph combined with torrential rains makes this dangerous to be out in. Several months ago I had a strong impression to buy a case of water for every companionship and instructed each missionary to store at least 3 days worth of food. We also did a short emergency training at District Meetings. Fast forward to a couple of weeks ago. Two cargo ships had problems getting to American Samoa. I heard that one of them had broken down somewhere in the Pacific and the other one was not permitted to dock due to the fact they had been in China. The result is shortages of many things-including not a single case of water on the entire island for sale. I have taken comfort in knowing that I followed that prompting and today in the middle of this storm all of our missionaries have food, water and shelter.
Valentine Cookies |
During Zone Conferences we often have a houseful of missionaries who travel with the President. The young Sister Training Leaders stay with us, and the APs (Assistants to the President) also enjoy hanging out here when their work is done. Because of the storm it looks like it will be a longer than usual visit as all flights off the island have been cancelled. We have had some crazy games of 3-Card UNO.
Sister Hiatt with Lady (Lady loves the missionaries!!!) |
Elder Esplin and Sister Reupena |
Valentines at Sadie's By The Sea |
A week from tomorrow my friend Heather arrives for a 10-day visit. We are really excited to be able to share this beautiful country with her. As an extra tender mercy, we took Lady in for her last Rabies shot on Tuesday and there was a vet there from Utah who happened to be a member of the church. He was so helpful in offering to help us get the needed paperwork done in time for Lady to return home with Heather. Brent searched the island for a crate to transport her in- but was unable to find one, so he called our son, Chad, who picked one up and delivered it to Heather to bring with her. This is feeling more and more like it's meant to be. It also tells you what kind of friend Heather is to transport a crate both ways for us. We have 4 little grandkids who are really excited to welcome Lady to her new home.
Chad with Lady's Airline Approved Crate |
I am grateful the power has stayed on long enough to get this post done, but I'm not going to press my luck. Sending love from the Island of Tutuila.
Alofa atu, Patty (Nana)
APs Elders Esplin and Tolman sporting their new Samoan Shirts |
No comments:
Post a Comment