'Oku tupulaki eku mo'ui

Life moves on ...
'Oku tupulaki eku mo'ui...

Well, not for everyone. My home stay grandfather at the age of 95 passed away last weekend. Another evening of buttering bread, singing, and little sleep for the putu. Every time there is a death I am learning more and more about the family circles within the village. He had six children that live in Okoa and six that live in other villages. With people having such large families, no wonder I get confused with names and relationships all the time. It was a sad yet reflective time for Okoa.

A mouse stands alone in his battle for territory. He has eaten poison, yet survives. He has earned my respect and we are on better terms now. I still jump on my bed when I see him, but I no longer scream or throw tings in his direction. He climbs along the tapa that hangs next to my bed during the night, but as long as he refrains from actually coming onto my bed then I am okay with the whole situation.

The second konifelenisi continues and I’ve made out pretty well. I’ve learned which foods to eat and which foods to take home. I find myself examining the tables waiting for prayer to end so I can get a hold of the best stuff. I also now know to bring my plastic grocery bag as a means to “fit in” here in Tonga.

The past few weeks my stomach was going through a few loops during the digestion stage. I had many a bout with my good friend diarrhea. I finally discovered that I had been drinking mosquito larva from my rain water tank, which was causing mad dashes to the rest room. Since I’ve been here I haven’t needed to boil my water, but I guess I must change with the circumstances. It is an extra little pain, but I have the time.

Next weekend COS (Close of Service) will be happening here in Vava’u for group 65 (I’m group 67). They will be filling out paperwork, getting medical check ups and hopefully gaining some closure on this whole experience. I was also informed that the new group (69) will be coming in July and having their training in Vava’u. Vava’u seems to be where it’s at!!! This is all just a little awakening for me about the circle of Peace Corps. Seeing old friends off and welcoming new ones. It makes this whole experience seem like it is flying by so quickly.

Thanks for all the updates and keeping my spirits high.

Love,
Adrianne