Good Times - 12 Dec 2017

Mauri kam ni kabane, 

A lot has been happening in Rabi since last time I emailed.  Upon our return to the island it seems like it has been non-stop events.  Went to two weddings, two Branch picnics, and a graduation ceremony.  Been very busy and the days are flying by, I can't believe its already been nearly 5 months in Rabi.  

This past week we were able to get our investigator Bimra out of her house for the first time in 1 year.  As I was pushing her in the wheelchair just down from her house she started to cry almost hysterically. It was a very emotional moment for all of us.  Was great to be able to be a part of it.  She saw people at Church that she hadn't seen in years and they were all crying.  Later that day we got her over the wharf and baptized her.  Went very well.  Such a great experience. 

We recently moved into a new flat.  It is considered one of the nicest ones in our area.  We are very fortunate to be able to make this move. After seeing our previous house our mission President thought it was a priority to get us out.  Moving has been a big task but finally we're just about settled.  Our new house has a big chunk of land out back, so this past week we cleared it out with machetes.  Over the next couple weeks we will be planting all sorts of fruits and vegetables for future Missionaries. Has been a lot of fun.  Regret not having my own garden before the mission. 

Currently I am in Labasa for our Zone Conference tomorrow.  We went on a very hard 1 hour hike today and it was a blast.  After here in Labasa we will head back to Rabi for Banaban Day.  Equivalent to our 4th of July.  However, this is THE biggest day of the year on the island.  A ton of food and visitors from all over Fiji.  The week following the 15th is all day Rugby and Volleyball games between all the villages.  I have heard this will be one of the most fun weeks of my life from the locals.  Excited to be a part of it.    

Loving my Mission.  Receiving a call to serve in Fiji was such a blessing.  I have become very accustomed to the way of life out here and I have come to love the small things life offers.  Something the fast paced lifestyle can't teach you as easily.  

Hope everyone is doing well,

Have a good week,

Love,

Elder Richardson 

Fiji Fashion 2017 December Edition.

"Bimra's day out."  Great time. 

Entering the Salt waters of baptism. 

3 Sisters Mountain. 

Looking at Vanua Levu from Rabi.

 Moonlit walk home

Top of 3 Sisters Mountain in Labasa.  Nice View. 

Handing out awards at the Primary Graduation Ceremony.