Hawleydays

The Rugged Beauty of an Ocean

2010-04-02T21:50:00.001-06:00

There are so many uninhabited beaches and islands stretching across the Kingdom of Tonga, surrounded by clear brilliant blue water. Most of the beaches are virtually untouched, and coupled with salty air and extremely warm water, we senior missionaries find them hard to resist on our Saturdays. Of course we swim in our clothes like the Tongans do! A favorite path leads to Umu beach near the Blowholes: The children from the village of Hoema enjoy a dip at the little beach during their last evening of summer break (January) before school began:

A scenic view of the cliffs overlooking the ocean between Keleti’s and the Landbridge: The same view on a stormy day: Cliffs near the Landbridge:A Saturday morning breakfast at Keleti’s:

All things bright and beautiful. The Lord God made them all. (A Sunset over the ocean in Eua.)

Cowboys and Gecko Tales!

2010-04-02T02:24:00.001-06:00

Gotta Love those Cows We senior missionaries enjoyed one Saturday visiting the Church cattle plantation run by Tevita and his boys. They have about 350 fine head of cattle including some Brahma bulls grazing on 500 acres of pasture. Tevita has only 3 men working with him to keep the operation going and it’s a big workload, particularly with the fencing. High school students also help to gather in the coconuts, up to 30,000 a year that can keep the grass from growing. Tevita and his wife take in boys who are going to Liahona HS and they have adopted children plus 3 young ones of their own. He said that before the missionary cowboys came to help, the Tongans would drive the cattle with sticks and throw coconuts at them—chaos! Then, they were taught by the Pa’langi missionaries to treat the cattle with respect and love. Tevita loves his cows and and his boys. He is a very “kind” cowboy who would sure like some more “missionary cowboys” to help him on the ranch. Two of Tevita’s little sons can call in the cows:Some of the plantation surrounds the Liahona High School. Are these cow----boys? Not! They’re students preparing for Pres. Uchtdorf’s visit.GEKO TALES: We could write a book about the island gekos. I opened a kitchen drawer and one hopped into my hand. We both jumped! One sister put a piece of bread in the toaster. When she pushed the bread down to toast, a gecko popped up! Another was in the air conditioner chirping away and she took the vacuum hose after it—just got its tail. When we open the screen door, they’ve been known to drop on us. They like to skitter across our sheets at night when we’re mostly asleep. But we’re glad they’re around to eat the less pleasant bugs! I don’t mind the gekos much—they’re kinda shy and curious, but noisy at times with their chirp, chirping. I have less patience for the teensy ants that do zigzags on reading glasses or tickle the hair on our arms!

Gekos do pop up or in this case plop down in the most unexpected places! Not long ago a small geko was peering at us from an elegant white table in the temple. Hmm…a gecko with a temple recommend?

Norotam’s sells a variety of Tongan and island fabrics and Gekos startle me when they pop out of the tops of fabric rolls. [Jeanene and I explore material galore—need I say more?]Jeanene had 2 tupenus and 1 dress made for her in few hours by Dany the tailor from the Philippines.

The Parable of the Mango Tree

2010-03-19T02:57:00.002-06:00

While serving in Vava'u Elder Heimuli would get up at 4:30 a.m. to pick mangos from his farm so he could have some before the kids knocked them all down for themselves. You see, mangos are a delicious, highly desirable fruit on these islands. Yummy! Mango trees are huge with the fruit in the tops of the trees, and both adults and kids often throw rocks and sticks to knock down the mangos for eating. The Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ can be likened to the Mango tree bearing fruit. Some people pick the fruit and are nourished by it and others throw rocks and sticks to knock the fruit down, but the tree of life itself continues to flourish. The islands here lost a huge crop of mangoes to Cyclone Rene, and the trees took a beating from the high winds. They showed stress for a few days but within a few weeks the battered leaves turned green. New leaves sprouted and the tree put on its best smile again. [See any mangoes?]

Parable of the Great Storm: Who Will Man the Lifeboats?

2010-02-19T23:23:00.002-07:00

At our Senior Missionary Fireside, Pres. Makemaile invited us to spend time with President Hamula of the First Quorum of the Seventy and first counselor in the Pacific Area Presidency.In a multi-stake leadership meeting, President Hamula delivered a most inspirational message, The Parable of the Great Storm, just one week before Cyclone Rene pounded the Tongan islands: [Photos of Cyclone Rene before and after]THE PARABLE OF THE GREAT STORM: There is a great storm coming. It is now upon us. Many are drowning. We must lose no more. We can rescue those who are drowning. Many casualties come from those losing their way in the storm—in the dark clouds, the heavy rain, the raging winds, the floods, the earthquakes. Prophets have been called to deliver the message of how to endure the storm. In the Book of Mormon a family leaves their home, journeys through the desert, builds a ship and goes to sea; a great storm arose for certain reasons. The people in the boat were not listening to the Lord…Our lives are like a journey across a great ocean. Our destination is the promised land beyond the ocean where we will find rest and eternal joy. On our journey we find islands that provide safety and rest until we reach our destination. Our journey in boats is with those we love. As we launch into the sea the waters are calm. Then a storm approaches. The waters become turbulent, stormy, dangerous. The little boats are specks tossed round about by the strong winds, the heavy rain, the lightning and thunder, the large waves. The little boats are broken up, tipped over, throwing occupants into the water. The people are afraid and hold onto lifeboats, praying for rescue. On shore there are people looking for those in danger. Who will get in the boats and go to rescue? Some stand by a boat unused and ready for those to go into the sea. Who will man the lifeboats and go to the rescue? Amidst the storms of life, danger lurks. Who will man the lifeboats and go to the rescue? There are stormy seas, the storm is upon us; who is willing to leave behind the comforts of home and family? Who will get into the boats and go to rescue? What has President Thomas S. Monson taught for forty years? Why has the Lord preserved this prophet now? He has proclaimed what we must do to rescue those in distress. Lifeboats sit outside our doors unused. Who will man the lifeboats? Everyone must pull his or her oar to be effective. Equipment needed is found only in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints: the Plan of Salvation, priesthood ordinances, baptism, confirmation, endowments, temple sealings, and so forth. No one else has this equipment. Only through our efforts can we save lives. Who needs to be rescued? Fathers, mothers, young adults, children, the elderly, all people who are in need. We are good talking about rescue but no rescue occurs by simply talking about it. We must do something. We must push out to sea in our boats. No one can make it safely across the ocean without the ordinances of the priesthood that are found in the temple. Obedience to these Gospel principles will rescue and save. We must man the lifeboats! We must save His children!

Part 2: Cyclone Rene Pounds Tongatapu

2010-02-19T22:47:00.001-07:00

Palm tree in front of our Liahona house #24

House in village of Popua before Cyclone Rene: After Cyclone Rene: Most of the banana crops, mangoes, and breadfruit on the island were destroyed. The bush from our back yard: Many homes lost roofs: Huge trees over 50 years old were uprooted: Ferry is pushed up onto the reef by Category 3 Rene: Old Tonga is severely damaged:Very sad pig! Where are the little piggies? Mary Pope ponders the power of the ocean that brought five waves up to 90 feet high through their house, sweeping away gardens and depositing 2-3 feet of sand everywhere. Caring villagers from Fatumu and our Liahona student ward went right to work to dig them out—Helping Hands to the rescue! Albert and Mary Pope have reached out and rescued others many, many times on this island.Lolo is certainly a “Mr. Fix It” Albert and Mary’s narrow beach with protuding coral rock BEFORE the great storm: Albert and Mary’s beach is transformed AFTER Cyclone Rene: Who will man the boats? We must each be rescuers for those lost in the storm. We must each be the life boats. We are the armies of Helaman!

School Days, School Days

2010-02-09T03:33:00.001-07:00

Summer Break : November and December 2009 brought graduation, Awards Assemblies and Summer Break for the CES schools in Tonga. Nia, superb principal of Havelu Middle School, leads her teachers and students with a Christ-like love. [BYUH Interns with Nia.]Lovely twosome, Monalisa and Ina, smile greetings from Havelu Middle School: The Havelu Middle School Christmas party, prior to summer break, was celebrated in fine style. Nia surprised Elder Hawley and me with a “Running with the Bulls” Award! Hmm! Wonder why? Lutimela Ahokovi, the gifted newly appointed principal of Pakilua Middle school, held an outstanding end-of-the year Awards Day for students and parents. Elizabeth Ramsey was Student of the Year 3 times at Pakilau Middle School. She is now attending Liahona High School as a scholarship recipient. Lavenia (honored guest and principal of Havelu Middle School) gives her a Tongan kiss: Some of our talented Pakilau Middle School teachers at the closing awards program in November--Kalisi, Vaivalo, Tupou, Folola, Mele and Satini:Inoke and Moana Kupu were honored guests at the Pakilau Middle School Awards Assembly. Pres. Kupu, formerly the CES Country Director in Tonga, is newly appointed principal of Liahona High School. Moana, a caring teacher, is now counselor for the three CES middle schools.Mele and Lita smile greetings at the Form 7 graduation dinner sponsored by the Liahona Alumni: Meanwhile, Sione Tafuna, Liahona HS principal, danced his farewell prior to teachers placing leis on him: A goodbye to our dear friends Semiti and Sera Leqakowailutu now retired school teachers. Sera is a superb English teacher. They were here at Liahona for 6 years and have now returned home to their family in New Zealand.Liahona graduates of 2009: Tapa cloth and beautifully woven mats provide ambience. The talented Jorgensens taught at the high school for three years and were soon to leave us. Inoke and Sione award the graduates their diplomas:JANUARY 2010 BROUGHT BACK-TO-SCHOOL PRECIOUS MOMENTS: [ITEP missionaries enjoy an evening out]During summer break in November and December, Elder and Sister Checketts invited us to help them develop a career guidance program for the Church Education Schools of the South Pacific. They are highly qualified to develop programs and train counselors. The pre-school training sessions for about 100 teachers in the CES middle schools and high schools of Tonga were a success. What a joy it is to work with these gifted principals, teachers and students whom we love so much. We hope to make a difference in the lives of those we teach.I especially like the school theme chosen for 2010 Pacific Area schools. Joshua 1:9 Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord they God is with thee withersoever thou goest.

The last weekend before school began at a secluded beach near the blowholes…no need for swim suits when it’s more convenient and modest to swim in their clothes. Sister Checketts and I shouted for joy when the blowholes spouted during low tide one Saturday: A beautiful pathway leads to Umu beach. Ofa ‘atu to Elder and Sister Checketts who are now serving in Vava’u, then Samoa, Kirabuti and Fiji as they continue training counselors for the CES schools in the Pacific. [Elder Checketts performs his silly magic to the delight of the Liahona students at the farewell party.]

A Liahona Christmas—Gifts of the Season:

2009-12-20T03:39:00.001-07:00

The Kingdom of Tonga sits directly on the International Dateline where the sun rises to welcome a new day before anywhere else in the world. These islands are where time begins!

One year ago on December 20, 2008, Elder Hawley and I arrived here to serve as ITEP senior couple missionaries for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and what a ride it has been! Hard work and long hours, yes, but we are nourished with golden moments along the way.

A Merry Christmas from the Kingdom of Tonga! [Blossoms shaped like red Christmas trees]“Christmas” trees bloom brilliant red bouquets in December [Liahona campus]

Bougainvillea festively decorates the island: Poinsettias in July---but hey, it’s winter then:

A Nuku’alofa White Christmas: As fingers touch, we walk under Liahona skies of blue. The clouds are edged with gold-- As gold turns to pink and light fades to grey, we gaze in wonder towards the Nuku’alofa temple. There is our star of Bethlehem, our Wayfinder and conduit to our heavenly home.

[Sunset from Liahona campus]The softening dusk is fragrant with white plumeria as we pause in thanks for His gift to all the world. We return from the temple under stars displayed in black velvet knowing our Savior is the light of the world who can penetrate all darkness and bring us heavenly peace.

We invite you to enjoy the gifts of the temple this season and have a “White Christmas” all year long:

Long Walk Part of the Gift!

The story is told of a missionary in Africa who taught the Christmas story of Mary and Joseph and the baby Jesus. He explained that the Wise Men had traveled hundreds of miles to see the Christ child. The presents of gold, frankincense and myrrh were an expression of joy for His birth. One small African boy listened carefully and then left. A few weeks later, on Christmas day, the boy brought to his teacher a seashell of lustrous beauty. “Where did you ever find such a beautiful shell?” the teacher exclaimed.

The young boy named a sea coast several miles away where such extraordinary shells could be found. The teacher was astonished. “Why…it’s wonderful! But you shouldn’t have gone all that way to get a gift for me.”

The boy’s eyes brightened, as he replied, “Oh teacher! Long walk part of gift.”

Long ago shepherds made haste to see the Christ child and the wise men traveled afar with precious gifts; we too must undertake a personal search for our Savior, Jesus Christ. There is no better time than now to walk the walk as well as talk the talk. “Behold, the Lord requireth the heart and a willing mind.” (D&C 64:34.)

Pres. Eyring has stated, “You make choices every day and almost every hour that keep you walking in the light or moving away toward darkness.” What a joy it is to walk the lighted pathway that leads to our Savior. [from Liahona campus]

All Things Bright and Beautiful Bring Gratitude--Pres. Uchtdorf’s Visit

2009-11-27T23:20:00.002-07:00

What a joy it is for us to serve as senior couple missionaries in Tonga. When President Uchtdorf spoke to us here he said, “God doesn’t call the qualified, he qualifies the call! You are an extended arm of the quorum of the 12 apostles and the Lord will bless you to magnify your sacred calling. Always try to live up t0 this wonderful assignment.” The he added, “Read what your name tag says about you. Your name and then Jesus Christ are the most important things that go together.”

This Thanksgiving we share with you some golden moments we’ll tuck away to remember with gratitude. Each of us can take time to pause more often and express gratitude for the beauty around us. We each can unclutter our lives to enjoy the simple pleasures that cost so little.

Primary: A favorite song the Primary children sing begins this way: All things bright and beautiful, All creatures great and small, All things wise and wonderful, The Lord God made them all. (Picture following Sunday Primary program: ) Malakai Kioa, a recent returned missionary, teaches the Valiant Primary boys and they do sing valiantly!We loved having Britt and Yvette visit us with an added bonus: school supplies from McKay’s Eagle Scout project for Havelu, Pakilau, and Eua middle schools. Malo aupito, McKay! Blessings flowed with President and Sister Uchtdorf ‘s visit to Tonga : (Entrance to the airport)President and Sister Uchtdorf and daughter are welcomed at the airport: Elder Hawley, Sione, Inoke and Elder Checketts await their arrival at Liahona: Liahona High School rolls out highly valued tapa cloth to welcome President and Sister Uchtdorf to the island: Pres. and Sister Uchtdorf enjoy time with students and teachers during a walk-about on Liahona Campus. With great emotion he expressed his love for the people here, for their goodness, their smiles, their laughter and their beautiful voices: Gift of tapa cloth art within tree trunk: Tamaline, a lovely mother of 5 feels blessed to enjoy President Uchtdorf’s visit to the campus. She teaches at Liahona High.There is a great spiritual feeling prevalent among the people of the island as they prepare for a servant of the Lord to arrive. They did all they could to please. A stunning island cultural celebration of song and dance was held at Liahona for President and Sister Uchtdorf: This young boy slipped his lei over my head following the cultural dances. It’s a lovely tradition they have--to give away their leis:President and Sister Makemaile (McMurray) enjoy the celebration:

BEAUTY of the BLOW HOLES: Nothing in the world can compare to the Blow Holes in Hoema, Tonga just a few miles from Liahona. Roaring ocean waves explode against the reef sometimes up to 90 feet into the air for miles along the shore. (We were thrilled to share the beauty of Tonga with Neil and Jeanene.) This young boy from the village of Hoema calls to the ocean to bring in the large waves (note the ledge before and after the wave in the 2 pictures): He dives into the waves: Pathway to a secluded beach near the blowholes: From the cliffs at the Land Bridge we see a powerful ocean: Huge “waves” burst onto the reef at sunset (Keleti’s beach): President and Sister Fehoko (Tina and Steven) are founders of Old Tonga. President Fehoko is a renowned wood carver in the South Pacific and Sister Fehok0 can weave or design anything, including those beautiful Tongan nativities: My Other Side of Heaven: Albert and Mary Pope welcome the senior missionaries for Thanksgiving to their home and beautiful beach (Laulea) near the village of Fatumu:Our Thanksgiving at the Popes: Elder Hawley carves the turkey and Elder Sing makes the gravy. Ahh…such exotic flowers Mary grows in their yard: 3 water birds enjoy the waves! Flowers from Mary’s yard:

At a dinner fireside for senior missionaries, Pres. Makemaile greeted us with smiles and said, “Isn’t it great that after having a challenging week, the Lord sees fit to bless us with those special little moments in our lives?” The last minute date night at The Friends Cafe became even more fun when President and Sister McMurray and Danny unexpectedly joined us on the outdoor patio for lots of laughing and good company under a tree of red blossoms. Yes, we feel gratitude for those cozy moments that nourish us.

Senior missionaries become our family away from home:The beauty of Liahona Skies:

A Tongan Tradition: the funeral

2009-10-25T03:01:00.001-06:00

Hymn 114: I wander through the still of night, When solitude is everywhere—Alone, beneath the starry light, And yet I know that God is there. I kneel upon the grass and pray; An answer comes without a voice. It takes my burden all away And makes my aching heart rejoice. –Theodore E. Curtis

Malo aupito to Sister Teni, a wonderful sister missionary and friend, for sharing some of these tender pictures with us. She helped Maama and her family through a difficult time. Death in Tonga is a communal affair and funerals are usually large, involved and expensive. Because there is no embalming done here, the body is frozen until the deceased person is prepared for a viewing in the home and burial.Various congregations (Latter-Day Saints,Wesleyans, Free Tongans, Catholics, etc.) come and go to pray, sing and mourn continually throughout the evening. Wailing occurs as a release of feelings. Tents and small lights are erected for the mourners who will sit on woven mats throughout the night until just before the funeral in the morning. They will present gifts of tapa, woven mats, cloth, a pig, etc. to the eldest member of the family. In turn, the family must provide plenty of food for the mourners which is a hardship. Tongans wear black when they are in mourning and close relatives wear large woven mats for three days. Wesleyan congregation singing at a wake: President Makemaile and President Shumway bring comfort through scriptures, prayer, and song: With some of you we have shared the sweet story of Maama and her testimony translated and written by President Shumway. This lovely young sister passed away recently after suffering for so many years with “Weber” disease in which her leg grew abnormally large. We share some pictures of Tongan funerals with love for her and her family: Eli, Maama’s husband, mourns the passing of Maama as he comforts their son: The body is then taken to the burial place early the next morning in a car or truck decorated with tapa cloth or woven mats. After the funeral the gifts are redistributed back to the people. The family usually ends up giving more than they have.The body will be wrapped in tapa cloth and banana leaves for the funeral and buried in a family plot; a mat is held up as a screen for the burial.Sister Vuki, President & Sister Shumway, Sister Teni and family pause after Maama’s burial.Quilts are placed at the grave of the family members and left for display. When a quilt wears out, the family will replace it with a new one. To honor the passing of a Noble in the Kingdom of Tonga, purple and black cloth is draped on the homes and fences of his village: The new noble of Houma is appointed by the king. He lives here in Hoema where his father did before he passed away in June. This is the noble’s burial site in the village of Houma. How sublime are the priceless gifts of the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ wherein we may know that we can be reunited eternally with our loved ones in the world to come.

The Potter's Clay: Shaping

2009-10-07T04:51:00.001-06:00

A grandson of ours loves to work with clay. He finds it's not easy to mold and form it into his desired shape, however. It takes practice, practice, practice and long hours of work and patience. Each of us is like a piece of clay with the potential to be molded and shaped into a beautiful and useful vessel. However, sometimes flaws or errors appear that must be repaired or when the clay is placed in the fiery furnace of the potter's kiln it will break or crumble.

We do not reach our full potential until we have been through the fiery heat of the potter's kiln--the trials in our lives. Then as we truly repent and center our lives in Christ, through the power of the atonement we will come forth from the fire transformed into an eternal being of beauty.

Dr. Viliami Toluta'u is a renowned sculptor and artist from BYU-Hawaii. He spoke to the Havelu Middle School students during the Ministry of Education Exposition for Tonga about the importance of using their hands, their eyes, and their minds to create and perfect a beautiful piece of art:Viliami's clay sculpture of a javelin thrower:Nia, the principal of Havelu Middle School, brought her students to the expo to help them appreciate their heritage. This tapa cloth 3-dimensional art is displayed in a doorframe.

These women are making tapa cloth for clothing. The bark is stripped from the mulberry tree, soaked in water and dried before the beating process begins and then pounded with a wooden beater on a wooden log. We can often hear the soothing rhythmic beating throughout the island. Tapa cloth is dried before being made into beautiful clothes:Liahona students design and complete their own lovely tapa cloth dresses:Works in Progress from Old Tonga: President Fehoko is well-known throughout the South Pacific for his beautiful wood carvings. His finished pieces are works of integrity and beauty. In the village of Popua he has developed and built Old Tonga as a project in family self-reliance and to preserve Tongan heritage and traditions of the island. President Fehoko is the fisherman who took President Monson out in a boat to demonstrate the octopus story. (See earlier blog.) This will one day be a finely carved chair. President Fehoko explains his wood carvings to the students. Note the fluid movement of the larger fish to catch the smaller fish (top right). A carved Kava bowl: A kali is a Tongan wooden pillow: Finely woven purses from coconuts leaves and other natural materials grown on the islands: Three-dimensional tapa cloth art: Artist’s creation of a tapa cloth dancing costume: Tapa cloth is highly valued by the Tongan community.“O Lord, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand” (Isa. 64:8)

Shapers: Liahona Stake Pioneer Day in Tonga

2009-09-19T21:13:00.001-06:00

The Kioa family recently welcomed two of their children home from missions in California. Malakai’s mission president called him the "shaper" as he trained the elders there. I like that word! Even as our parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents sacrificed much to shape our generation, we are the shapers for this century linking the past with the future . We must be today’s pioneers firm in the Gospel through the lives we live. We are the shapers not only of our own future, but also for our children, our grandchildren and our great-grandchildren in the generations that follow. We each can make a positive difference in the days ahead, and in joint effort with the Lord, we can be shapers to help build the kingdom of God here on earth.

Malakai and his sister Sela receive a joyous welcome home after serving honorable missions in California. What a dynamic duo these two are!Senior Shapers: Some of the Senior missionaries were blessed to meet with Pres. Hamula of the Pacific Area Presidency: Elders and Sisters Ka'ili, Sperry, Hawley, Elder Hamula with President McMurray (back), Claytons, Sings, Gordons, Tau'a alos, TongasSeveral of these pioneers were here when the first wards and stakes were organized in Tonga. It was a cool winter day this early August morning.Brother Pope a former BYU professor was one of the early missionaries here. He later became the Liahona High School principal. He met Mary and they adopted Tongan children and have lived here ever since. Families from the surrounding villages gathered for Pioneer Day August 25th to celebrate the missionaries coming to Tonga to preach the Gospel. Inoke Kupu enjoyed the festivities; he is the Liahona stake president and our CES country director as well as ITEP coordinator; Keith Vaitai is a sweet Primary child. Tamaline Kaufusi and Moana Kupu (Inoke’s wife) smile greetings. Although the Liahona students were on term break, several our 2nd ward families enjoy the festivities. Lots of smiles and laughs during the extemporaneous poetry competition about Pioneers: Basket weaving competition with half a coconut palm leaf:

Kioa brothers weaving baskets in record time: And the winner is--- Priesthood Power! (Tuwai Latu, Elder Hawley, Inoke, Roy) Inoke Jr. entertains some of the 2nd ward Primary children: Primary children from one of the village wards perform while members provide the music: This village group of Relief Society sisters tell the story of the pioneers with their hands: YM and YW honor the pioneers through song and dance: Baby and Gordon enjoy the celebration! Our Primary kids enjoy line dancing in preparation for their quarterly activity: Willing teachers join in the fun. (Mounga, back right, is a student at Liahona.) We are the pioneers of a new century. What will be written about us? How are we shaping our legacy? It is our responsibility and opportunity to gain a strong testimony and understanding of the Restored Gospel that we may strengthen those who follow.

A Pathway to the Nuku'alofa Temple: garnished with flowers and sunsets

2009-09-01T21:28:00.001-06:00

Robert Frost's poem, "The Road Not Taken" is even more meaningful as Elder Hawley and I serve as ITEP missionaries in Tonga. With gratitude we see that the Lord watches over us in every little thing and guides us as we walk the road less traveled by, "and that has made all the difference." Frost's poem concludes with these lines: Two roads diverged in a wood, and I--I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.

An exquisite sunrise begins our morning walk on Liahona campus:The Flying Foxes--a protected species--are coming in to feed: They're fruit bats and only the Royal family are allowed to hunt them--a delicacy. It's head has the look of a fox and they compete with the bees in the morning for berries, nectar, etc. Fascinating! Sometimes they sound like cats fighting in the evening--don't like each other. High up in the palm trees they hang upside down to eat: This one is different--most of the bats are a velvety reddish brown:An early morning walk down the lane to the church cattle ranch surrounding some of the Liahona campus: The flowering plumeria tree loses its leaves in winter (May-September in Tonga) but blossoms valiantly appear on bare branches; the Christmas poinsettias are in abundance. We do love papaya for breakfast with a squeeze of fresh lime on it:

"In-- my neighbor's garden, the flowers are blooming. 'How do you do,' they say. " "How do you do today?' " . . . In a village next door to Liahona, we admire a beautiful flower garden. These two lovely sisters are going to help us plant one.

The leaves from the Pandanus tree hang out to dry and will be woven into fine mats or kiekies for the women to wear: President and Sister Makemaile live in the mission home just a short walk from the temple. The beautiful noni tree with orchids growing around it is a favorite. This rare palm tree with 2 crowns is a short walk from the Liahona campus:The Navu stake house is across the street from Liahona campus:An Eternal Pathway: Our pathway leads to the Nuku'alofa Temple. These things we know to be true--that we have been given a certain amount of time and opportunity on this earth to be molded like the Savior. We are, indeed, Works in Progress. And what better place to learn and experience our eternal purpose, than in the greatest university on this earth--His holy temple. It is the conduit that can move us forward in becoming more like the Savior. How thankful Elder Hawley and I are to live here on the Liahona campus where we may walk the path to enter His Holy House. No earthly kings we serve, but King of kings o’er heaven & earth!

Come, O thou King of Kings! We've waited long for thee, with healing in thy wings, to set thy people free. Come, thou desire of nations, come; Let Israel now be gathered home.

Hail! Prince of life and peace! Thrice welcome to thy throne! While all the chosen race their Lord and Savior own, the heathen nations bow the knee, and every tongue sounds praise to thee. ----Parley P. Pratt, Hymn 59 As we walk through the temple gates back to our Liahona home, we feel gratitude for the road we have taken.

A Joyful Reunion With Gifts and Talents

2009-08-29T04:49:00.001-06:00

Elder Hawley and I have never experienced anything quite like the Liahona Alumni celebration held every 3 years in Tonga with hundreds of alumni from all over the world.And of course we love the Liahona Brass Band!When a musical program includes performers, it is traditional for Tongans to spontaneously join in the dancing right along with the performers, including this brother from Ogden who sings in the Tabernacle Choir! His daughter was one of our talented BYU-Hawaii interns. The Liahona HS band majorette is a delight. Many of the students are dressed to perform traditional Tongan dances. Anyone can join in to show their appreciation give them pa'anga (money) on their lavishly-oiled arms. Winnie bows to the queen after leaving the field. Inoke rewards the majorette as well. These lovely students wear dresses made from colorful leaves on the island: Giving is an tradition of the lower rank to the higher rank, and the Tongans give liberally and appreciatively. The celebration for the afternoon concluded with more gifts for the Queen Mother: several dozen homeade quilts and long lengths of beautiful tapa cloth (bark cloth pounded from the inner bark of the mulberry tree.) According to the booklet, Making Sense of Tonga, "Tonga is the king of tapa. People use tapa as gifts at weddings or funerals, as blankets, wedding clothes, dancing costumes, and to decorate their homes. Typically, Tongans are wrapped in tapa when they are buried. Tongans measure their wealth in their tapa and their mats. If you are Tongan, you can have a million dollars, but if you have no tapa and no mats, you are poor. " New Zealand performs for the Queen: A Maori warrior: Goodbye to the Queen Mother, Halaevalu Mata’aho. LIAHONA EDUCATION EXPO IN DOWNTOWN NUKU'ALOFA: Silu (PBO) and Ministry of Tourism, Fineasi Funaki, open the Liahona Alumni Expo:Sister Fehoako and Sister Hawley pose at the Old Tonga display wearing the woven hats with flowers she made. Her husband is the stake president who has re-established Old Tonga to preserve the Tongan heritage and traditions of the islands.Making a canoe:Beautifully woven and embroidered materials are fit for a queen:These cute home economics students model the dresses they sewed from Tapa Cloth. Red dirt is mixed with coconut oil for the color. And the black is done with charcoal. Impressive, right?Can't believe these are the same girls who wear pigtails and uniforms to school each day!

Hand-carved Kava bowls:Hats are always stylish:

Liahona Alumni Celebration 2009 Begins with a Queen

2009-08-23T05:05:00.001-06:00

Elder Hawley and I love our calling as ITEP couple missionaries (International Teacher Education Program) for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Tonga. It was a delight to be invited to the Liahona Alumni Celebration for 2009 where we could learn to appreciate the Tongan people and their culture:

Inoke Kupu, Liahona stake president and CES Country Director, welcomes the alumni and Her Majesty, Queen Mother of Tonga to the opening fireside of the Liahona Alumni Celebration 2009: Her Majesty the Queen Mother, Halaevalu Mata’aho, speaks to alumni: Moana Kupu, our stake president's wife enjoys the parade of alumni around the campus square: President Inoke Kupu is one very busy man!The flag raising ceremony on Liahona campus begins another day of celebration: 1000's attend the 9 days of festivities across the island. Our Bishop Vaitai and his wife Ola smile greetings. Ana, secretary at Havelu Middle School, and Bishop Vaitai are Liahona alumni.Elder and Sister Hawley with Sione Tafuna, Liahona High School's principal: Vika Kaufusi is a delightful Liahona Middle School principal: Our friends, Sera and Simiti Leqakowailutu, stand by the Fijian flag. Sera teaches English at Liahona HS and Semiti is a retired school teacher, a temple worker, and member of our bishopric. The Tongan flag ceremony begins in front of the high school:The Tafuna family displays wreaths in memory of their son who died with 5 others in a tragic car accident on graduation day 2008. Tongans wear black with woven mats as a sign of respect for those who have passed on (Bird of Paradise wreath) Spontaneous dancing is common when the band plays: Luncheon is Served--and this was only the beginning! After lengthy ceremonies on the Liahona front lawn, we were seated at the tables near the Queen Mother who was served queenly dishes. We were fed the best of Tonga---lobsters, huge shrimp with bulging eyes, fish, pig, lupulu, ufi—(large yams), cakes. President Nau's wife, Winnie, helps prepare the tables. We would have enjoyed spending more time with ward members including Elder and Sister Heimuli: Everyone awaits for the Queen Mother to arrive before luncheon is served. Sila, a cute gal who works at the Liahona bookstore fans away the flies: Here comes the queen. Let the feast begin: President Nau, a cousin to the king, sits by the queen.

A student welcomes the Queen Mother to Liahona: Here come the gifts for the queen mother. A large pig in a crate, with ufi (root vegetables) as a traditional gift to royalty:A Kava tree is presented to the Queen.

Farewells and Reunions

2009-08-01T02:36:00.003-06:00

Friendships: Our lives seem to be built around farewells and reunions. President McMurray shared his thoughts that when the veil is parted, we’ll want to especially greet our family and then those whose friendships were built on gospel principles--those special to us through serving missions together or bringing someone into gospel. For now,we reluctantly say farewell to our friends Elder and Sister Heimuli, who radiate a deep love for Tonga, especially the youth at Liahona High School and Saineha High in Vava'u. Sister Heimuli, born and raised in Hawaii, has a happy laugh that ripples throughout her conversations. She smiles with her voice and eyes. To be around her is soothing, like a lighted candle in evening or a cool, bubbling brook. Her beautiful Hawaiian hands move gracefully to serve, to reassure, to touch lightly on the shoulder. She thoughtfully explains Tongan ways, unafraid to be who she is and what she represents. And, she and I like cats! Sister Heimuli took care of the yellow striped tabby—the little missionary kitty. I’m glad Sister Gordon who is moving into their little house near us likes cats, too. [Sister Heimuli at Heilala Lodge]The Keleti Resort is perfect for a Friday night date. [Sister Heimuli and Elder Hawley enjoy a scenic walk to the beach]Our Liahona Student 2nd Ward held a farewell dance and celebration for Elder and Sister Heimuli. At one point Sister Heimuli was invited to sit in the center of the room (Elder Heimuli had the flu). It was such a lovely thing to see the bishop’s wife, Ola, dance a Tongan farewell for her: The youth one at a time placed leis on Sister Heimuli with a kiss, until they were layered right up to her nose. She in turn placed her leis on members of the ward and kissed each goodbye.

"Bali Hai" and a Warning

2009-08-01T02:32:00.001-06:00

"I Watch the Water!" Near the Blowholes is a lush secluded beach much like a scene from the musical South Pacific, “Bali Hai.” [Elder Hawley and Sister Heimuli below] Story continues with pictures: We missionary couples marvel at the beauty of this place--this Bali Hai.

As I waded in the calm turquoise water near the sandy shore I watched our men. Elders Heimuli and Sing were out on the reef by the blowholes, arms outstretched in a Moses-like pose as the water roared high above them on the other side of the reef. Elder Hawley was on a craggy cliff overlooking the ocean. In awe, I listened to the roar of the water as it crashed against the reef spouting water into the air, sometimes up to 40 feet. [Elder Hawley]I turned and there was Sister Heimuli by my side. She looked into my eyes and quietly spoke. "When my girls or boys are in the ocean, I don’t watch them, I watch the water.” I looked at her a bit puzzled. She went on. "I love the water. But like Elder Hawley, I also know who rules the water!” Years ago when she worked at the Polynesian Cultural Center she and her friends had gone to Hukilau Beach to swim. As she stood there on the sandy shore it was a calm beautiful day. Some of her friends were out enjoying the ocean when she saw a huge wave in the shape of a hand suddenly appear and rise up behind them. She screamed a warning and just as suddenly the wave disintegrated and disappeared. Those on the beach around her also saw the phenomenon. Then, quietly, she repeated, “When our boys are in the ocean, I watch the water." I turned to see huge waves from the ocean exploding against the reef. With a strong swell the water is forced up through vents in the coral and then they can shoot up to 80+ feet in the air during high tide or a storm. They stretch for about 5 miles along the shore creating an impressive sight of exploding fireworks. Indescribable, breath-taking, frightening! At such times the sea boils and roars with anger. I shivered, even though the turquoise water around me was calm and warm.

If we carried that one step further, what happens on those Friday nights when a championship has been won or it’s the Jr. Prom or Graduation Night—the night of the Big Wave. You see a huge wave swelling but you are having fun and enjoying life, and it 's 10:45 p.m., not curfew time. Is it best to be home before curfew, maybe even a bit earlier, because it might be the night of the Big Wave? Satan is waiting for one misstep in the dark. Thus, we must be prepared to make the right choices and use the Spirit to guide us in our lives! A DREAM, A CALL : Sister Heimuli hasn’t seen the children in her dream yet. One day when they were in the temple, she was looking toward a frame on the wall. Then it changed and she saw herself there with smiling children. They were all waving and having their picture taken by someone she could not see. She has not seen those children on their mission in Tonga. Weeks later, Elder and Sister Heimuli were called in and interviewed by the Area Seventy. They were asked if they would be willing to serve a second mission to the Solomon Islands. This faithful missionary couple has served 23 months in Tonga. For now, they look forward to the joyous reunion with children and grandchildren until they receive an official call from the Lord. [The Nuku'alofa temple in winter, July 2009] Sister Heimuli is a journal writer and note taker right up to the last minute: [at the airport]

I Want to be Called "Elder"--Until We Meet Again

2009-08-01T01:53:00.001-06:00

Elder Heimuli is Tongan through and through and proud of his heritage, but he is from a new generation encouraging and guiding the young people from the traditions that hold them back. He is a man of strength and courage who loves the Lord. When Elder Hawley gave him a blessing he said, "My name is Sione but I want to be called 'Elder Heimuli.' " Elder Heimuli is a Liahona High School graduate from the island of Vava’u. He met his sweetheart while attending BYU-Hawaii and performing at the Polynesian Cultural Center. He graduated from BYU-H and became a teacher for Granite School District and the San Juan School District at White Horse. But first and foremost, the name by which he wants to be know is Elder Heimuli.

Elder Heimuli is also a talented teacher who helps train teachers and kids for life. He is artistic in fine woodwork; he has taught students at Saineha High School in Vava'u and Liahona High School in Tongatapu to build beautiful furniture. [Display at Liahona Expo in Nuku'alofa] When he sings or listens to music Elder Heimuli closes his eyes, leans back, curls his toes, and taps to the beat. Below, Elder Heimuli, President McMurray, and Elder Taua'alo spontaneously harmonize during a Senior Missionaries Fireside at the McMurrays.

Elder Heimuli is a great cook especially with all the island dishes--grilled BBQ chicken, roasted Bread Fruit over an open fire, a hot coconut drink (kinda like a gruel), coconut dumplings, lupulu. Yum! The scissors fly when Elder Heimuli cuts hair, and he can split open a coconut and grate it in seconds; he plays tennis on campus at 5:30 a.m. and drives the missionary van in wild abandonment (although Sister Heimuli is right there to quietly tap on his arm if he overdoes it.)

He loves Vava’u where he was born and raised, and owns 6 acres there. Taxes cost him 80 cents a year. And, he has stories to tell! What do you do when you have a flat tire and no spare jack? Two big Tongans came along and lifted up the car while another fixed the tire for the Sister. Elder Heimuli won’t buy melons at one of the takeaways just outside of Nuku’alofa. Claims they’re “fried melons” sitting in the heat all day. But we do love the watermelons here!

A crab anyone? Elder Heimuli roasts some breadfruit: nothing like it! Elder Heimuli teaches Elder Hawley how to shuck a coconut: A joy in Elder Heimuli's life was to baptize Milika:Elder Heimuli has a wonderful garden in the bush directly behind the Navu Stake House and he has made a nice wooden bench there for others to enjoy. Taro is a favorite starchy tuber crop grown in Tonga.A machete knife is used for everything from trimming trees and edging grass to splitting a coconut or a roasted piggy.The long Tongan hoe is a very effective gardening tool. Home Depot needs to stock these!Elder Heimuli is holding his grandson adopted by their daughter. Crystal lived in Tonga for 6 months before the adoption was approved and she was allowed to take this sweet little boy to his home is Arizona. Elder Heimuli's barber used to cut his hair when he was a student at Liahona years ago: Until We Meet Again: Elder Hawley and I have developed a love and respect for Tonga and its people through this couple. Indeed, these two have brought a bit of heaven into our lives and so many others. When we said our farewells to the Heimulis at the airport, Elder Hawley, “I don’t even know your address, and soon you will be off to a second mission in the Solomon Islands.” Elder Heimuli responded, “Don’t worry. I will find you.” They'll move from Utah to AZ where their children live. Elder Hawley inherited Elder Heimuli's coconut shucker--pandana stick; the coconut grater (you have to sit on it to grate), and a striking frame he made to display a picture of the First Presidency. [Elder Heimuli and Elder Hawley say their goodbyes at the airport:]Ofa atu, Elder and Sister Heimuli, until we meet again. [Keneti Resort one Friday date night]

Of Sailing Ships and Faithful Saints

2009-06-19T18:06:00.001-06:00

HAPPY FATHER"S DAY! How blessed I am to be married to Elder Hawley--a loving husband, father, and priesthood holder. This blog is for you, our four sons, and all the exemplary fathers in our lives. We are so thankful for our earthly fathers and Heavenly Father. I think of hymn 84, Faith of Our Fathers as we honor the many fathers who have prepared the way for us. We love you.

SHIPWRECK: TO THE RESCUE—Elder David S. Baxter is the Area President of the Pacific. We senior missionaries were invited to President and Sister Shumway's home (President and matron of the Nuku'alofa temple) for a fireside with Elder Baxter. He shared wonderful stories with us of the faithful people of the South Pacific and of President Monson.

It seems that in a meeting with the brethren, President Monson spoke of a painting he viewed in a London museum called Shipwreck by Joseph Turner. It depicted people battling the waves in their small boats to rescue the men at sea in a terrible storm. Then, President Monson looked directly at each of them and asked, “Who have you rescued personally recently?” We should all be engaged in rescuing others. Elder Holland was reminded of one Sunday when he was 10 years old and his bishop, Sunday school president, and elders quorum president came knocking at the door. His father answered the door with a cigarette in his hand. They told him the Lord was calling him to teach Sunday School for the 10 year olds. He thought for a moment and then said, “Well if I do this when will you want me to start?” He took his Camel cigarettes out of his shirt pocket and threw them into the fire. Elder Holland’s mother in the kitchen dropped her dishes in astonishment. The next Sunday, before he taught the class, he went to church early to pay his tithing. The bishop may have thought he was getting a Sunday School teacher, but he also got a husband, a father, a patriarch, a family. [Joseph Turner's Shipwreck:] Elder Baxter then said, “ Don’t write people off. Get down on your knees and pray over every person. Never think, “There is no hope." The Lord is more concerned about your future than about your past—not where you’ve been or what you’ve done but what you’ll be in the future.

As members of the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ, we all need to have that same perspective. How can we help those sons and daughters of God, men and women who need to be rescued? We need to be in those boats; whom have we rescued lately who was lost?

At the market one day, Elder Hawley discovered a beautiful tapa cloth painting of an outrigger battling the waves, so much like the sea here. It reminds us of President Monson's story:

PAPUA, NEW GUINEA: 102 PEOPLE and 11 CANOES: Elder Baxter told of a remote branch in Papua, New Guinea where there are no proselyting missionaries. One Sunday after their meetings, 102 people climbed into 11 canoes and journeyed 4 1/2 days on the ocean to so they could attend at least one district conference meeting. They were their own missionaries and had brought investigators with them so that the missionaries at the conference could teach and baptize them. Before they returned home, 18 were baptized and confirmed. It is one of many pioneer stories of humble, devoted people on the islands throughout the South Pacific. And sometimes we moan and grumble about an hour’s worth of travel to get to the temple?

More than merely a mode of transportation, these canoes doubled as homes for the members during the trip. Photo below: Courtesy Pacific Area--See Church News

Elder Baxter calls the South Pacific a “heaven kissed part of creation” with people living in the most humble of circumstances; they pray for miracles and miracles occur. It is a gift for Elder Hawley and I to serve here and feel their devotion. We hope you’ll be able to feel the spirit of this place and its people and their love for the Savior as we share our experiences with you.

AUSTRALIA AND THE OUTBACK: A TRUCK? A BOAT? A MIRACLE!

Elder Baxter attended a District Conference in Australia that included an area 900 miles north to south and 600 miles east to west from Adelaide to Alice Springs. That is a lot of outback! He related the story of Gary Bird, the first aboriginal member of the LDS church to give a talk at a district conference. He would say a sentence or two and then take a very, very---long---pause, speak another sentence or two and again take a very, very--- long---pause. This continued throughout his talk. He concluded by saying, “Thank you for hearing my voice.” Later, he told Elder Baxter that he must think first before he spoke. It seems to be the aborigine way. (My, if more of us would do that!)

Gary Bird and his passengers left Alice Springs after the meetings to return home. They were traveling in an extremely remote area when his truck broke down. He and the other members of his branch with him decided they’d have to push the truck home; he was concerned because he also had a badly sprained ankle. So, he prayed for heaven’s help. And, he received that help. They got out and began to push the truck and it moved forward like a boat floating on the ocean rather than an old truck on a desert road. They guided it all the way home as if they were pushing only with their finger tips. Yes, people out here have that kind of faith!

Tongan Classes Celebrate Their Culture:

2009-06-12T02:23:00.000-06:00

It's end of term and students in the Tongan classes at Liahona are being judged on their craft projects and dances. Sione Tafuna, principal of Liahona High School, demonstrates that up to 6 sticks from the Tongan broom could be used to discipline students once upon a time. Brooms are made from the ribs of coconut tree fronds.Short brooms are for indoors, and....Long brooms are used for sweeping outdoors. They are attached to the pandana stick with a bicycle inner tube. Works well!Wooden Tongan head rest/pillow (center) and map of Tongatapu: Ta'ovala, a woven waist mat, is worn by men and women as a sign of respect Kiekie (kee-eh-kee'eh) is a handmade elegant work of art worn by women over a long skirt:Fans for the hot summer daysTalking chiefs are men who represent others in ceremonies. This talking stick would be for the village noble or talking chief who speaks for the king in each village. This Liahona student carved the stick: An octopus lure: (President Monson tells the story)Handwoven basket and hair pins: Elder Hawley and I enjoyed the students performing Tongan their dances at Liahona. Stunning costumes are handmade. The girls lavish their arms, legs, and hands with a generous amount of coconut oil before performing. Tapa cloth dress pounded from mulberry leaves:

Vika, the Liahona Middle School principal is a delightful, beautiful dancer!

These guys are good! These beautiful girls were featured in the Tongan Chronicle. The fresh leaves are smoothed with coconut oil to make them glisten! Creativity at its best!

Of Missionaries, Miracles, and Devoted Dentists

2009-06-04T05:15:00.001-06:00

Meet Elder and Sister Garrett, faithful LDS missionaries who have worked miracles in Tonga: Miracles like small bottles of meds that never seem to run out when there's a need and the supplies haven't arrived; like saving the life of a sister from Vava’u who collapsed and quit breathing but was revived with Sister Garrett’s CPR; or answering the calls 7/24 and driving into the bush to minister to sick missionaries suffering from boils, dengue fever, and other tropical ailments. You see, there is very little medical help on the island except for Dr. Ana, and the hospital is archaic. When the missionaries call all hours of the night, Sister Garrett will ask, “How sick are you?” The standard replies from Tongan missionaries are “Really sick!” “Really, really sick!!” or “Really, really, really sick!!!” Elder and Sister Garrett have become loving grandparents providing cheerful comfort and healing for these young missionaries and others on the island. [Photo from our yard one Sunday May 31, 2009]Sister Garrett experienced a miracle herself when she slipped on a banana peel—yes, that’s right—during a youth talent show at the Navu tennis courts. She has a chronic back condition and there she was in severe pain, in a critical situation and unable to move. In fact, she wondered if her hip was broken. But, the Garretts know that the first half of any healing or surgery is to receive a priesthood blessing. Elder Hawley and Elder Garrett carried her to the car, drove her home, and gave her a priesthood blessing. She was healed almost immediately. Some details are too personal to share, but know this: The Lord does watch over his missionaries! Elder and Sister Garrett prepare to leave for a Wake: When Sister Ten Hoopen arrived to serve as a health missionary, Sister Garrett suggested she buy small plastic Ziploc bags to use as containers for prescription pills. On market day when Sister Ten Hoopen couldn’t find them at the Chinese store, she explained to the clerk what was needed. The clerk exclaimed, “Oh, you want to buy Garrett Bags!” and got some for her. Yes, we’ll miss these two cheerful, caring servants of the Lord as they return to their families in Salt Lake City.

Last Sunday we were at the potluck for missionary couples in the home of President and Sister Makemaile. Sister Shumway, the temple matron, gave beautiful leis to the Garretts. Later, as we walked home, Sister Garrett placed her lei on me saying it would bring me luck. And that's the way they are. About a month ago Elder and Sister Garrett invited us to help with missionary house inspections on the island to check for order and cleanliness inside and out. The challenge for the missionaries here is to create a Celestial Home to invite the spirit. Organize yourselves; prepare every needful thing; and establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house of order, a house of God." D&C 88:119

The missionary houses in Tongatapu have no hot water, stoves, or washing machines, and the young sisters and elders rely on the members to feed them. Following the directions to inspect the missionary homes was a challenge especially after the hurricane, but we enjoyed the humorous instructions to find their places: "Turn right at the Mango street sign:" Or "Turn left at the church with the purple fence:" Elder Garrett claims to have cleaned more toilets here than he did in the military as he trains the young missionaries, and he loves it when they smell more like Wellington toilet cleaner then cologne! Neighborly pigs led us to the next inspection: "We are the armies of Helaman!" say the elders when they pass inspections: Check out those mosquito nets: Celestial Homes inside and out! The young elders from the office came to say goodbye to the Garretts and hello to Elder Hawley:Farewell time at the airport with Sister Sing, Sister Clayton, Sister Pulsipher, Sister Hawley, Sister Garrett, Sister Vuki, and Sister Ten Hoopen on June 2, 2009. It was a chilly winter evening clear down to 70 degrees! Elder and Sister Garrett, God be with you 'til we meet again. Ofa atu!--Elder and Sister Hawley

Meet the Pulsiphers--A Family of Miracle Workers: This family of doctors and dentists are a great example love and service to the Tongan people. David and JoAnn Pulsipher lived in Apartment 24, our place, when they served their mission. They continue to come back each year for a month or more to give free dental work for the Tongans. Dr. Pulsipher stays close to the Lord, and he shared with us about a dream he had one night this week. It answered his concern about replacing a tooth for Dr. Ana, a wonderful Tongan female practitioner. He awoke and told his wife about the solution and then wrote down the details. The next day he used a procedure on Dr. Ana that has never been done before, and it worked beautifully. In fact, it was so successful that he is now writing a paper about it as well as sharing the information with others.

Joann, his wife, is a delightful and talented woman. Her warm sense of humor and tales of Tonga are entertaining. She taught school here and has been a wonderful help in our office. Joann is an expert on Read Right strategies for students who cannot read and I'm very interested! Another miracle worker and a new friend.

Dr. Pulsipher and two students prepare to for another busy day at the health clinic on Liahona Campus: (A long line of people come early to wait patiently until it's their turn.) Paul, Dr. David Pulsipher, Joann Pulsipher, their grandson, and their son Dr. Daniel Pulsipher, a practicing dentist in CA and former U of U place kicker star:

Parliament Day: Parades, Pomp and Ceremony

2009-05-31T13:23:00.001-06:00

May 28, 2009 celebrated the opening day of Parliament, a blend of British pomp and ceremony with Tongan traditions. Status and rank were highly evident and but there was much laughter and humor too. Ambassadors were there in all their finery, including Japan, China, New Zealand, and Australia. Judges in their wigs and long robes walked in a stately manner into the building. There were cannon salutes prior to the arrival of the Princess and last of all King George Tupou V. Neither acknowledged the crowds of people, however. This tiny South Pacific nation is the last kingdom of the Polynesians to have a monarchy.

Boom dah dee rat-a-tat-tat echoed throughout the Liahona campus where we live! Ten hours a day of drums and brass practicing, practicing, practicing for weeks to prepare for opening ceremonies of Parliament Day in Tonga. Sectionals practiced under the breadfruit tree, on the streets, the grass, or in the band room with open doors and windows. Then, the entire student body of over 1000 students and teachers marched behind the band around the square preparing for the parade. Our friends, Semiti and Sera Leqakowailutu, march along with the students. Sera is an English teacher here, and Semiti is a retired teacher working in the temple. This is their last year at Liahona before returning to their home in New Zealand. We're blessed to have them as friends. There were banners, pompom girls, twirlers with batons made from white enamel curtain rods, flag twirlers, and all the students marching in sets of boys and girls. Havelu girls practice with plastic pipes and sticks: Ahopame, a teacher at Havelu Middle School, instructs students on their marching technique:It all paid off when LDS schools of Liahona High and Middle Schools, Havelu Middle School, and Pakilau Middle School with over 1800 students and teachers displayed the joy of music and dancing for the big parade in downtown Nuku’alofa. We were so proud of the kids in our schools as they followed the Liahona Band along the parade route. Numerous Nuku'alofa police were wearing their ceremonial uniforms" The Parliament Building was festively decorated in fresh greenery and flowers:Inside the Parliament Building: (King's chair hadn't arrived.) Pacific Area Authority Seventy Sione Fineangnofo visits with Elder and Sister Hawley. He is there to represent the LDS Church. Scouts will prepare to stand at attention when the parade begins: Nuku'alofa Navy and other military lead the parade: Japanese ambassador stands at attention while his country's national anthem is played: New Zealand Ambassador smiles warm greetings: A judge enters the building: Students and bands from across the island parade through the streets past the Parliament Building and the palace: The princess enters quickly: After donning his crown, so does King George Tupou V: The Prime Minister of Tonga enjoys the parade: We were all standing directly across the street from where the nobles were seated in front of the Parliament Building when I was surprised to see Mele Funaki seated there under the canopy. She beckoned me to come and sit next to her. I turned to look for Elder Hawley but he had gone to sit on the steps of the gazebo for a minute--we had been standing for several hours. I felt hesitant at first but couldn’t resist such an invitation. After letting the Sings know, I crossed the street to join her. Mele is a bright and wonderful English teacher at Pakilau. Until then, I hadn’t realized that her husband is the Minister of Tourism for Tonga, Fineasi Funaki. Needless to say, I enjoyed my time there. (Mele is seated next to the empty chair where I sat during part of the parade.) Teachers join students in the parade:Vika Kaufusi is the Liahona Middle School principal and what a delight she is! So many of the schools were led by laughing and dancing “cheerleaders”--teachers and parents. Often spectators would join in as they came by. Vika and Makelita Satini (librarian) are magical when they dance and they exhibit such joy and beauty. My cheekbones ached from smiling and laughing so much. Elder Hawley and I are blessed to serve the Lord here with such a beautiful people.Liahona drummers displayed fantastic skills as they tossed drumsticks back and forth and played each others drums without missing a beat. With such talent they wowed the crowd.

Intercollegiate National Games and a Princess

2009-05-17T00:08:00.001-06:00

Welcome to the three-day Tongan National Intercollegiate Games held in the Nuku'alofa stadium each April. It is an entertaining world of Harry Potter with all the various houses--colleges, high schools, and middle schools--throughout the Tongan islands competing in the track and field events as well as cheering competitions among the schools. As guests, we missionary couples arrived early to avoid the heavy traffic and crowds. Tongan culture is founded on rank and has a three-tiered class system: 1. royalty 2.nobles 3. commoners. A special Tongan language is spoken only to the King, another spoken to all other royals and nobles, and the regular Tongan language spoken among commoners. This area is prepared for the king and his family.Tonga's Princess Salote Mafile'o Pilolevu Tuita arrives for the games. There are definite rules to follow here. I guess we can be excused because we are Palangi’s. Let the games begin!

A missionary gathering at the games: It seems the young elders earned a free day because during their home inspections they all earned a "Celestial House of Order" reward. Elder Karrati (sp.) in the middle top is from Pleasant Grove not far from Britt's neighborhood, and the elder left of him is from Spanish Fork.Of course the young elder missionaries are never without purse and script Tongan style:The athletes work hard to get here and many of them do not have shoes or socks for the competitions. But it is a big deal! Two of the winners from each event will have the opportunity to represent Tonga in the Olympics. During the opening ceremony the teams march around the track. The CES (Church Education System) Saineha High School students from the island of Vava'u were impressive competitors! Sister Heimuli said that during practice the trainer gives their athletes a bit of honey in the palms of their hands to eat just before they run. It gives them energy. Then, too, the different departments in school take turns feeding the athletes a good lunch daily a month before the big competition. The Pain of an Athlete: Liahona students did well, too. For the past month the athletes have gotten up at 4 A.M. to train, and the student wards asked for donations to help feed them. It’s difficult, grueling work considering they don’t train all year. Ola Vaitai, Liahona PE teacher and our bishop’s wife, said the kids suffered during training but persisted. She shared with the athletes that she saw their pain but it was nothing compared to our Savior’s pain. She taught them the power of the Atonement, that He wants us all to win and we must never give up. One young athlete in our ward said, “The pain of running in the sun was not like the pain our Savior suffered for us.” They are a simple beautiful people and spirituality is prominent in their lives.

Before competing, these Liahona athletes bow in respect to the Princess: Tongans cover their heads with anything including tree branches to keep their heads out of the sun: Food for the judges: Check out the strength in those arms: Medals are awarded:Liahona high school band members prepare to lead the parade of athletes in the closing ceremonies: We were so proud of them!

Say it With Flowers; and Tales of Starfish, Crabs, Centipedes, and Demise of a Guard Station

2009-05-10T04:24:00.001-06:00

MOTHER'S DAY REFLECTIONS:

Dad to his daughters: Thank you for living righteously as you meet the rigorous challenges of motherhood. Your examples influence eternity. Your teachings will fortify those around you, particularly the children, just as the teachings of the mothers of the Book of Mormon stripling warriors. Happy Mother's Day with flowers, hugs and love from Tonga to Kimberly, Yvette, Jeanene, and Laura!

Elder Hawley and I love the people here on this beautiful South Pacific island of Tonga. But as Dorothy yearningly exclaimed in the Wizard of Oz, "There is truly no place like home!" Especially this Mother's Day, our thoughts turn to home. At times, raising four sons and a daughter seemed more like the Wild West of frontier days, but it was also a time for building a foundation based on Gospel principles. Now we look at our precious children and grandchildren think, “When did such a thing happen?” As you stay strong and true you will know joy and a sense of peace in this life and the next.

I miss my parents and those times where we'd gather 'round the table for cheerful talk and thick slices of homemade buttered bread. I miss those intimate times with my mother. Mother loved all things beautiful--music, books, gardens, painting, writing, and baking. I remember a simple life with the bare necessities but never felt deprived.

Dad left this earthly existence July 9, 1996, and Mother joined Dad three months later, on October 22, 1996 [Blaine and Edna Heaton Stapley.] Mom and Dad served a mission in the California Los Angeles Temple Visitor’s Center from September 13, 1974 to September 12, 1975. This excerpt from her missionary journal is even more meaningful to me now:

5/25/75: This mission is a wonderful experience. We recognize, humbly, that we are instruments in the hands of the Lord. We never leave our room to go on duty without praying for help and guidance. We never take a tour without praying silently for help. . . . He has helped me so many times. I have said and done things I have never expected to. I have had the power to discern the needs of the people I am taking on tours. I have been able to reach out to them because I was an instrument in the hands of the Lord. It is a humbling experience, an unforgettable one. Like seeing a glimpse of Heaven. How grateful we are for this privilege of serving Him.

Now it's our turn. A beautiful Hibiscus shrub in the Garrett's yard next door is covered with double blossoms of white in the early morning hours. The flowers gradually change their colors to a shell pink by afternoon. A village home and garden: The Young Women from Liahona 2nd Ward surprised me with a homemade chocolate cake just for Mother's Day. Of course, Elder Hawley loves chocolate cake! We invited these three cute Liahona students to Sunday dinner. Sa'ane, Rosi, and Polo come from the islands of Ha'apai and Eua. They will live here 2-3 years not returning home until they graduate. Parents sacrifice so much to send their children away for a good education. It was a bit puzzling for them to eat a dinner of honeyed carrots, string beans, and baked chicken breasts for the first time. They do love ice cream best!Ofa teaches Keyboard at Liahona and displays such a joy for life and the Gospel. She gave birth to a beautiful little girl a few weeks after this picture was taken. Ofa is a wonderful Gospel doctrine teacher for our student 2nd ward: Yes, students here are taking finals in basket-weaving with coconut palms--a Tongan class Liahona style. We love these baskets to store coconuts: [Across the street from our house] CES Pakilau Middle School teacher Foloa Ukakala helps students create lovely flowers from tapa cloth made from the bark of mulberry trees: Note the talented toes.Folola made this beautiful hair ornament for me: We love Vika, Liahona Middle School Principal, who came by the ITEP offices one morning with fragrant ginger flower leis for Sister Sing and me: Lavenia, an exceptional CES Havelu Middle School principal, invited Elder Hawley and me to be guest speakers for their PTSA Awards Assembly. It was early April and one of the last hot days of summer! Our leis were made from the blossom end of the pandana fruit I understand:

TALE OF THE STARFISH: One day a man walking along the beach noticed a young boy picking something up and gently throwing it into the ocean. Approaching the boy, he asked, “What are you doing?” The youth replied, “Throwing starfish back into the ocean. The sun is up and the tide is going out. If I don’t throw them back, they’ll all die.” “Son,” the man said, “don’t you realize there are miles and miles of beach and hundreds of starfish? You can’t possibly make a difference!” After listening politely, the boy bent down, picked up another starfish, and threw it into the surf. Then, smiling at the man, he said, “I made a difference for that one.” [As missionaries for our Savior we hope to make a difference in the lives of those we teach.] Elder Hawley and Sister Ten Hoopen (health missionary and friend) prepare to throw their starfish into the surf.

TALE OF TWO HERMIT CRABS: One Saturday evening after gathering some seashells from the beach I discovered 2 hermit crabs who would not give up their home. Actually, it's rather surprising to gather shells, put them in your pocket, and discover they're inhabited! I haven't the heart to feed them to an adopted "missionary cat."

The comical pair remind me of a marvelous lesson taught by those who live in the islands. When they catch crabs, they place them in a small, flat basket. If you place one crab in the basket, it crawls right out. If you place two crabs in the basket, every time one crab starts to crawl out, it is pulled back in by the other crab. Elder Hales once said, " Would a true friend be like the crabs? True friends are people who make it easier to live the gospel of Jesus Christ. If our friends lead us away from the right path, no matter how popular, fun, or smart they seem, we should ask ourselves, “ Do they make living the gospel easier? Do they help me out of the basket? Will they leave with me if I sense a trap?' " (Robert D. Hales)One little guy finally got tired of hauling his larger shell around (above right) and occupied a new shell (see below). They climb on top of each other, rocking back and forth until they both tip over and start again. SINFUL CENTIPEDE: These centipedes in Tonga can be up to 10 inches long and their bite is excruciating! It reminds me that I certainly don't want to be caught in the clutches of "Satan" whose vicious venom destroys souls. Many times we conclude with a sunset. Today, however, we'll show you a quick way to close a security guard station at the Liahona High School entrance--with a loaded cement truck, of course! The guards are now working under a tarp nearby:)

Spiritual Moments---Adding Oil To Our Lamps

2009-04-26T03:39:00.001-06:00

The spiritual moments on a mission together are incredible. In an earlier interview with President McMurray, he encouraged us to experience something spiritual each day. And, it happens--again and again. When we are on the Lord's errand he blesses us in every little thing. Through the difficult times—yes, Satan does all he can to interfere-- it’s those spiritual moments that help us work even harder to accumulate oil for our lamps drop by drop in Gospel living so we may represent the Savior in all we do.

On a Sunday evening at the Senior Couples monthly missionary potluck and fireside, President and Sister Shumway--temple president-- and President and Sister McMurray--mission president--say farewell to Sister Kinikini at the close of her 4th mission. She was on her way home to Utah. In a period of weeks, Tongatapu has experienced a major earthquake, a volcano erupting, the formation of a new island, and a hurricane. We acknowledge that the message was sent and received! We're thankful that our Father in Heaven watches over us all here. These blowholes are a few miles from Liahona just before the hurricane: Looking towards Liahona campus from the Navu chapel. Conference meetings were postponed because of the hurricane warning.Storm from heavy rains and high winds damaged crops in the bush--the plantations--especially the banana trees (see the bananas?) Breadfruit trees were uprooted: The Church cattle on the plantation were fine. Our heart hurts to see the suffering of the people here , but they smile and go on. This house is boarded up for the storm. However, our sad-looking palm tree in the front yard is already sprouting new fronds.It was clearly time to talk about emergency preparedness! So this week as 17 of us gathered in our home for family home evening, Sister Heimuli demonstrated how to make a candle with cooking oil, cotton string and a metal nut from a bolt. She took apart a piece of string from an old necklace to use one strand and then cut it into pieces about 4-5 inches long. The string was then threaded through the metal nut so it protruded about ¼ inch above it. Next, she filled the shallow dish with a bit of oil, lit the string with a match --and voila! A beautiful flame. When she lights it as a candle by her mirror in the evenings, the light is multiplied in the room to create ambience. This dish will burn 3-4 hrs. in the evenings for about 2 months.

Then I saw that Sister Heimuli had placed the dish on her scriptures and Preach My Gospel book to elevate it during the demonstration. And I wondered, “Am I ready and prepared to receive His light? Do I have enough oil in my lamp to be led from the mists of darkness and storms in life onto the narrow path of Gospel truths that will guide us to happiness? I thought how we must each light our own lamps with oil enough to be prepared for His coming.

Michelle McMurray, 15 year old daughter of President McMurray leaves home for BYU Provo where she has a four year scholarship and isn't old enough to drive yet! So, the McMurrays came to enjoy a family home evening in our home while she said goodbye to her missionary "grandparents." With lots of laughter too! Elder Sperry does haka, New Zealand's Maori war chant. Michelle holds her niece while standing in front of their "noni" tree.Our 6:45 a.m. walk on campus the day Elder Richard G. Scott arrived: The young elder and sister missionaries on the island of Tongatapu sing Tongan hymns as they wait the arrival of Elder Scott: We missionary couples love hearing them sing:Elder Scott shook the hand of every young elder and sister missionary and the couple missionaries before he began his talk:Tupulu, newly baptized member and second in command of the Tongan police force waits to shake the hand of Elder Scott. (Elder Sperry guiding him forward is 6 ft. tall :)Elder Scott related the following tale to the missionaries there: Once upon a time there was a cat who didn’t have anything to do and was dying of hunger. “What’s wrong with you?” asked the well-fed cat. “I’m dying of hunger. There’s a rat in the hole and it won’t come out,” said the skinny cat. The well-fed cat said, “You are not hunting the right way. Let me show you.” He put himself to the side of the hole rather than in front of the hole so the rat couldn’t see the cat. “Woof, woof!” he said. The rat thought that the dog had chased the cat away and came out........That was the end of the rat! Can you see the advantage of being bilingual? I would love to speak Tongan, but YOU OUGHT to perfect your English. Why? (To raise their standards of living, to gain an education, to listen to the prophets in English; we can never translate all the materials of the restored Church that are in English.) He then asked, "How many of you will make a greater effort to learn English on your mission? Be grateful to do that!"

Elder Scott emphasized that one can’t be inspired by the Holy Ghost if commandments are not obeyed so that the individual and families will be blessed. "It is much like opening a combination lock with 4 numbers. If you put in three numbers just right but not the fourth,the lock won’t open. We learn guidance from the Spirit through the Lord's way. "

Afterwards, Elder Scott met with the Prime Minister of Tonga. Elder Hawley and I drove Brother Fulou Kioa (interpreter for Elder Scott) to the airport where he prepared to fly to Vava'u with Elder Scott and the McMurrays. Fulou is the high priest group leader in our Liahona student 2nd ward. (Remember, he roasted the pig for the Principal's Conference.) What a kind loving servant of God Elder Scott is, and we are so thankful to learn from Him:Elder Scott invited this sweet missionary returning home to Vava'u from a mission in Guatemala to have her picture taken with him and President and Sister Makemaili. He visited with her and Sister McMurray in Spanish while they waited for the plane. Sunday has been a spiritual feast of teaching, serving and listening to Elder Scott. We missionary couples helped Sister McMurray feed about 30 adults and children who had come from the remote islands of Ha’apai to spend a week going to the Nuku’alofa temple. Cinder block shelters are built behind the mission home where the people can stay when going to the temple—single bare concrete rooms with bathroom and shower. These people sacrifice much to bring their children with them to be sealed together in the temple, and they have so very little by way of worldly goods, including food. They take shifts going to the temple and caring for the little ones. This time on the 6 hour boat ride to Tongatapu, a 3 month old baby got sick and died at the hospital that first night. It was a heartbreaking situation.

Tonight they were invited to the McMurray’s backyard to eat and meet with Elder Richard G Scott just back from Vava’u. As they sang hymns we mingled among them serving lots of sandwiches, ice cream and cake. They don’t have ice cream on their island. Most don’t speak English but are so grateful and humble. With President Makemaile (McMurray) interpreting, Elder Scott paid special attention to the children and then pronounced a blessing upon them all before going to speak at a multi-stake young adult conference in Liahona. He is a wonderful story teller full of humor and wise counsel. This gracious apostle of the Lord radiates "a certain testimony that Christ lives, that He expresses his love so intensely that it is impossible to describe." He bore witness, "I know He lives because I know Him." Elder Hawley and I also testify as witnesses of our Savior Jesus Christ that he blesses us in every needful thing as we serve in the Kingdom of Tonga.

Old Tonga and the Tale of the Octopus Lure

2009-04-10T05:26:00.002-06:00

On P-Day, the missionary couples and President McMurray's family enjoyed a visit to Old Tonga where Stake President Fehoako and his wife Tina took us on a wonderful personal tour. The idea for Old Tonga began when he was a taxi driver taking tourists to find a fale--a thatched roof hut with sides made of woven coconut leaves or reeds--but he couldn't find one. So he determined to build Old Tonga as a project in family self-reliance and to preserve Tongan heritage and traditions of the island. Old Tonga is in the village of Pupua. In 1982 a hurricane devastated many areas of the island destroying homes. The king gave the land to the people hit by the hurricane. It was not settled at the time. In fact, it was a rubbish dump in a swampy area and the land is the lowest point on the island. President Fehoako was the first bishop of Pupua. There were 400 members in that ward who met under a tent each week. Now they have a chapel and lives in the village are slowly improving. President Fehoako believes that one day the area will be prosperous if members continue to be faithful. It is now the largest village in the Kingdom of Tonga with 3 wards and 3 bishops, and the people are happy and find joy in the Gospel.

Elder Thompson and Elder Hawley enjoy walking through Old Tonga. Note the fale in the background:President Fehoako demonstrates the beating of the Tongan drum--a wooden club against a hollowed out log. In many places of Tonga, the beating of the drum and church chimes are heard at 4:30 a.m. each day, summoning the people to church: A Tongan bed with a mosquito net awaits guests who are welcome to stay for the night: President Fehoako is well-known throughout the South Pacific as a fine sculptor and wood carver, and his wife Tina designs beautiful Tongan jewelry and art pieces: A talented sister weaves a fine mat for wearing. It takes about 2 months of work to make one such as this: A mat like this is worthy of a Princess: Preparing the tapa cloth and painting it is no easy task: Preparing for the feast: Elder Hawley is invited to sit in the King's chair, a gift from the king who died in 2007: Do you recall Elder Monson's Tongan tale of the octopus lure? (Ensign May 2006, True to the Faith) Tongan fishermen glide over a reef, paddling their outrigger canoes with one hand and dangling the maka-feke over the side with the other. An octopus dashes out from its rocky lair and seizes the lure, mistaking it for a much-desired meal. So tenacious is the grasp of the octopus and so firm is its instinct not to relinquish the precious prize that fishermen can flip it right into the canoe. President Fehoako was the fisherman who took President Monson out in the boat that day.

It's an easy transition to point out that Satan has fashioned so-called maka-fekes with which to ensnare unsuspecting persons and take possession of their destinies. Today we are surrounded by the maka-fekes which the evil one dangles before us and with which he attempts to entice us and then to ensnare us.

There is a trick to the octopus lure. Fisherman chew coconut and spit it out to make the water oily so the octopus can’t see them. A fisherman uses different stones if they are not attracted to the first. He can use a second lure and the entire group of octopus will leave the first lure and go after the second. In his hand, President Feheako holds a strange-appearing fishing lure fashioned from a round stone and large seashells. This is a maka-feke, an octopus lure. We are attracted to the graceful beauty of the hands as members of the church dance for us: The young women pour large amounts coconut oil on their hands and arms so they will shine to reflect the beauty of the dance:President Fehoako and his wife Tina give farewell gifts to Elder and Sister Thompson as they prepare to depart from their mission. Elder Hawley gave me a lovely red coral necklace made by Tina: The setting sun is a time to meditate on the beauty and goodness of Old Tonga, the islands and the people :

A Bit of Nuku'alofa, Capitol of Tonga

2009-04-04T02:11:00.001-06:00

Elder Hawley and I are on our way to Havelu Middle School near Nuku'alofa, the Capital of Tonga. This is a common sight: We pass the the country estate of King George Tupou V where he lives when he's in Tonga. We stop at an ANZ (ATM) for some Pa'anga (Tongan dollars); the gas station attendant there keeps busy: Typical cemetery near Havelu Middle School with colorful quilts to honor the deceased: These two policemen had such charming smiles until I took their picture (near American store). But, having your picture taken is serious business! Bananas anyone? Unloading them at the market in downtown Nuku'alofa.This is the Parliament Building where all the schools join in a parade with the king in May to celebrate Parliament Day.We continue our walk past the Treasury and the Post OfficeThe Nuku'alofa Post Office is behind this huge Monkeypod tree: We walk by the side of the Queen's summer home in downtown Nuku'alofa Bougainvillea blooms throughout the islands: Walking up a hill in downtown Nuku'alofa--yes, a real hill where an ancient battle took place. Walking down the hill in downtown Nuku'alofa. Tongan Army Headquarters: Palm tree seed pods: Nuku'alofa's one radio station:

Elder Sing's fan is woven from one leaf of a coconut tree: Sphagnum Moss hangs from the tree: The burial place of King Taufa'ahau Tupou IV who died in 2007 The Free Church of Tonga in Nuku'alofa: Yes, there's a church on every corner! Tongans love to have their pictures taken. They wear black when they are in mourning. Close relatives of the deceased wear very large funeral mats--some so large that they go up to their heads. Piggy, piggies: We're warmly welcomed to the LDS Pakilau Middle School by Luti (Lutimela Ahokovi) a new principal this year. It's report card day as students & parents at Pakilau smile greetings. Pakilau Middle School kids live in the bush--the country.Tongan broom at Pakilau Middle School: Students and teachers are responsible for cleaning their own classrooms. All LDS church school kids wear green and white uniforms.Kids riding home after school (not one of our schools) wave their greetings .

There's an LDS chapel in every village, and there are lots of little villages on this island! Lots of colorful cemeteries throughout the island! Double hibiscus flowers on a shrub near a clothesline next door:

South Pacific Area Principal's Conference 2009 in Tonga--Roast Piggy and Lupulu

2009-03-21T19:26:00.001-06:00

(Click to Enlarge any picture)

Elder and Sister Hawley, Elder and Sister Sing, Dr. John Bailey (Dean of Dept. of Education) from BYU-Hawaii, and Elder and Sister Carlston (mission couple ITEP Coordinators in NZ) in front of our ITEP office on Liahona High School campus. John is BYU-Hawaii ITEP director born in New Zealand and the Carlstons from USU are recently retired--all a joy to work with. Lutimela Ahokovi, newly appointed principal of Pakilau Middle School wears black out of respect for her grandmother who passed away in New Zealand. The higher the mat is worn, the closer to the relative. Elder Hawley and I will work closely with Luti and her teachers. Vito QaQa (principal from Fiji) and on the right, Inoke Kupu--our stake president and S&I Country Director for Tonga: Elder Sione Fineanganofo Area Authority Seventy looks on as "Chief Samoa" principal studies the Technology Assisted Language Learning (TALL) program: The South Pacific Area Principal's Conference group 2009 in front of Liahona High School includes principals from all the South Pacific Islands and training personnel from New Zealand, BYU-H, Australia, and SLC. A few principals and area personnel were unable to be there for the final afternoon picture: Siniua Hoeft principal of Ha'apai Middle School on island of Ha'apai and Lavenia Fonua from Tongatapu, principal of Havelu Middle School. Elder Hawley and I will work closely with Lavenia and her teachers: Linda Havea from island of Vava'u, principal of Saineha High School and Lutimela Ahokovi from Tongatapu, principal of Pakilau Middle School: Sione Tafuna with 2 students is the principal of Liahona High School: An evening celebration for everyone included a piggy roasted over a fire on a spit. The sweetened glazed skin is crisp and considered a delicacy. Folau Kioa is 2nd ward high priest group leader and vice-principal at Liahona High School. He proudly displays the main course. Moane Kupu, Inoke's wife oversees the meal: Kalina Kioa, Folau's wife helps with the meal preparation. She is Stake Primary president and member of our Liahona 2nd ward:

Kalina Kioah's son, 16 year old Asieh, surprised us one Sunday with dinner: lupulu and Hawaiian yams! The traditional Tongan feast is cooked in an umu or underground oven overnight. We enjoyed this favorite dish called lupulu--canned corned beef and onions marinated in coconut milk and wrapped in taro leaves called lu. We learn more about the neighborhood, the faculty families, and Tonga from the kids! Lovely Liahona High girls entertained the group with their dancing: Another beautiful sunset from Liahona Campus:

Tonga on Market Day (Saturdays)

2009-03-06T22:31:00.003-07:00

Kids enjoy the swimming hole next to the Purple Store: The Purple Store is known for its great NZ ice cream--Passion Fruit is especially good! The storage containers from the ships have arrived at the Purple Store. There were 9 huge containers this day! We were at the "Twin Towers" store when Elati Maile, an employee, rushed right up with a basket for me to carry groceries. He proudly stated, "I'm a Momon!" The people is are so kind and gracious on this island. This store features large frozen bags of turkey tails! No, we didn't buy them. Vegetables and fruit were plentiful for the first time in weeks at the outdoor/indoor farmers market. Tongans have their own small farms and raise their own vegetables and fruit. They eat lots of root vegetables such as tapioca, taro, breadfruit, and a variety of yams with little seasoning. Leafy green vegetables are often difficult to find.

Vegetables and fruit are sold by the pile. This is the farmer's market indoors. Their green beans are yummy!

We buy quite a few vegetables from this Chinese girl: Cucumbers are always good, eggplant is the first we've seen and Chinese spinach: These fans are made from the coconut leaf, and the several kiekie on the tables are handmade and worn over the skirt for women. Yes, I'm planning to buy one to wear for Sunday and special occasions: This sister is making a broom: These kinds of brooms are used in the homes and classrooms:A Tongan uses a child's dress to cover his head---anything works I guess. :) When they're out in the sun we see shirts, towels, baby clothes, anything attached onto the head as a cover to keep the sun off their faces. Our favorite bakery is Cowley's: The missionaries shopping across the street in a tiny American store where we look for treasures from the mainland such as pasta and spaghetti sauce. It was a rare treat to find some dried pinto beans that day! Home from the market, Elder Hawley changes into his P-Day clothes and goes to retrieve a coconut on the Liahona High School grounds. He threw it into the tree--see it above his hand--to retrieve another but missed: )The Chinese pink takeaway store is across the street from campus. Surprisingly, you ask for it and they have it--from an umbrella to Cream crackers (like Saltines that stay crisp); or "cough candy" (cough drops) to a loaf of bread. How about that car? It reminded us of Cason's! Looking into one side of the pink takeaway store: 'Line Kioa is one my cute Valiant Primary girls at the Pink Store: White plumeria flowers from our backyard tree in honor of Brenda's birthday. The smell is as enchanting as the flowers!

Tales and Photos of "Heaven on Earth"

2009-03-01T01:43:00.003-07:00

Saturday was P-day and after 4 hours of market time with the couples, we left for a beach party celebration in honor of President and Sister McMurray’s birthdays, a day apart. If you’ve seen the LDS Friendly Islands portrayal, President Nau was featured in it. He and his wife Winnie were given about 89 acres of prime beach property from the King of Tonga 9 years ago. President Nau visits regularly with the new king—it seems they’re cousins.

He gives celebration feasts on his beach for the General and Area Authorities when they come to the islands. And there we were in a tropical island paradise. We could feel the spirit of it as we entered the beautiful place on a beach front surrounded by ocean, coral reefs, sandy shores and jungle covered cliffs. No wonder they named it “Heaven on Earth."

President and Sister Nau put on a great feast for us with enough food to feed 100 people. There were 19 there, including 4 missionaries from the office, and 5 of President and Sister Makemali’s family! It was the Tongan way of expressing gratitude for the missionaries and all they do for Tonga.

Story 1: With the help of 8 of his men, they’ve spent years clearing and improving the area by planting coconut trees, palms, pandana trees, banana trees and other tropical plants and flowers. Up beyond the cliffs he has a Noni fruit tree plantation and about 70 acres of pasture with 40 head of cattle. We were where there once was thick wild jungle all along the beach front property as they began the arduous job of cleaning out the unwanted foliage and stacking it all along the beach in an extensive wind-row between 6-8 feet high. The intent was to allow it to dry and be burned. Then one morning his men went out to work and called him on the “mobile” phone and said, “You must come here right away!” When he arrived at the work site the entire beach coastline was pristine clean. He looked out to the sea and there was no debris anywhere. It seems a storm had blown in during the night and the wave action had cleaned the beach of the foliage hauling it out to sea beyond the coral reefs. He raised his arms in gratitude and said, “Oh, thank you Heavenly Father!”

Story 2: President Nau then related another story to Elder Hawley that happened when he was working on his plantation. He and Elder Hunter (perhaps President Hunter but not sure) had driven out to observe the planting of new trees. The men were all carrying buckets of water for the new plants and the work was tedious and hot under the blue sky. Then Elder Hunter said, “This will not do.” The men were big and strong with sweat pouring down their bodies. President Nau described them as standing like the armies of Helaman with bandanas around their heads and leaning on the long spades as a prayer was given in which Elder Hunter pleaded for rain to water the plants. Then President Nau and Elder Hunter walked back to the vehicle. Just as they got inside and shut the doors, the skies opened up and it poured rain out of a cloudless sky watering all the plants. Smiling at President Nau, Elder Hunter gave him a thumbs up and off they drove.

President Nau invited each of the missionary couples to plant a coconut tree on the beach which we did. As Elder Hawley and I planted the brown coconut with a long green sprout coming from it into the sand, we were to say to the plant, “Grow well and we will return.” (Sister Heimuli said that the spouted ripe coconut is especially good to eat as it has a marshmallow like taste.)

The beauty of the place and sacred power of the missionaries and the people there truly made it a Heaven on Earth as we gathered shells, listened to stories, and to the roar of the ocean waves crashing into the coral reefs and flowing onto the sandy beach.

President and Sister Nau (Fineaki and Winnie) welcome us to their resort:

Carving the pig--fish and chicken was also plentiful; a cooler is quite a prize to acquire on this island:

Happy birthday to President and Sister Makemaili (McMurray). Winnie made the cake:

President and Sister "Makemaile" planting a coconut at the beach.

"Grow well and we will return!"

A beautiful ocean to enjoy. Coral reefs in the background.

Four hard-working office elders able to relax for a few hours:

Elder Hawley and friend fishing for the souls of men:

Waves crashing against a reef at Heaven on Earth:

The sandy beach along "Heaven on Earth"

President Nau shares stories with Elder Hawley:

Coconuts are piled along the sandy paths:

EUA: A flavor of In-House Track Meets, Pig, Flowers

2009-02-28T12:10:00.001-07:00

Liahona In-house games begin at Liahona High School with 8 houses or groups competing. All LDS church schools require students to wear green and white uniforms and the girls always wear braids. Other schools have their own uniforms and colors.

EUA GAMES----EUA Middle School (an LDS church school) marching around the track at the game competitions with the other schools on the island:

Another school with teacher circles the field:

Another school, another teacher:

This sweet sister heard we were in Eua and made fragrant leis for us that her son put around our necks. The Eua high school principal told us that leis not only welcome us, but they keep the wearers cool. It's mid-February and still the summer season. Sister Hawley enjoys the games with Aloine Havea, LDS Eua Middle School Principal:

Aloine takes photo of Eua's Minister of Agriculture in front, the Eua High School principal and Elder and Sister Hawley:

Colorful native bird--not Eua's red parrot. She's a teacher at the high school.

Definitely a coach!

Eua Middle School student wins a race and then poses with "Sista" Hawley and Amelia Na'apa, her teacher. Aloine, the principal hand basted green ribbons on all the participants to make their outfits look special.

Spectators enjoy the games from a typical Tongan truck--multi-purpose: school bus for hauling students to school, produce to the market, portable bleachers:

Loseline and Amelia, Eua Middle School teachers, prepare students for race.

Timers with stop watch in hand as we listen for the clap of the 2 cement trowels that work as the starting gun for the race.

The custodian of Eua Middle School made for a great cheerleader! Parents, kids, and spectators get up to dance, cheer, or race along with the kids on the final yards. Note the sugar cane baton in the 2nd photo :

Piggy in Eua: School crossing guard!

A sister is making a tavala for the men:

Elder Hawley buys tickets for us to fly back to Tongatapu; the Tongan is on his way back to Vegas for work.

Flowers of Eua--the orchids were growing along the fence of the airport there. Pilot is ready to fly us back to Liahona campus and home

Eua Island: Our First Trip

2009-02-19T02:15:00.002-07:00

Chathmas Pacific pilot prepares us for brief 6 minute flight from Tongatapu to the small island of Eua.

We fly over the east coastline of Tongatapu towards Eua.

Destination: EUAAloine Havea, principal of the church middle school in Eua, is there to greet us.

Aloine's husband, Felengi Havea, is the stake president of Eua. He was 31 when he accepted the call two years ago. As a result, Aloine gave up her one-year scholarship to BYU-Hawaii where she could have received her BA degree. Feleni was called as the stake president 3 weeks before they were to fly to Hawaii.

The ocean as seen from Eua's scenic Rock Garden

Eua's coral rock gardens...

Feleni takes us to the water reservoir in the hills of Eua

Eua's water supply in the mountains never runs dry.

Aloine picks some guavas for lunch. The fruit is delicious!

From the ocean looking back to the Hideaway where we stayed in Eua. "Wild Jungle Beast" from the bush at the Hideaway. Billy Goat Gruff?Room #4 at the Hideaway where we'll stay when we spend time in Eua training teachers--no hot water, of course.The sun sets in the ocean west of the Hideaway in Eua.

P-Day with Haircuts, Peanuts, Sugar Cane, & the Beach

2009-02-09T01:21:00.001-07:00

The scissors fly when Elder Heimuli cuts Elder Hawley's hair in his sing song way...probably took him about 3 minutes. Hmm, wonder what they're discussing?

Our once beautiful avocado tree.... had a haircut too! Elder Heimuli did a great job for Elder Sing, but perhaps Elder Hawley and the avocado tree had a bit too much taken off the top.

Elder Heimuli's barber in Nuku'alofa who cut his hair when he attended Liahona High School.

His barbershop is across the street from the bakery in downtown Nuku'alofa. These kids are watching their brother get a haircut. The banyan trees on Liahona campus are kept trimmed to avoid damage to structures during the hurricane season.

There were 3-4 men up in this tree cutting away. One Tongan was so proud of his handiwork that he wanted to pose.

Peanut vendors in the Bush. We like peanuts! They can be boiled in salt water, baked in the oven, or eaten raw. Sister Hawley prefers them raw. Sugar cane with its natural sugar is great to chew on and it whitens and cleans the teeth as well, we understand. Work in progress. Elder Heimuli peels tapioca root from the market. Tastes much like a potato when boiled... quite good! Later, after going to market, we spent the afternoon at the beach and walked out on the coral reef.

Elder Heimuli grilled some bread fruit and peeled it. Bread fruit is often called "The Tree of Life" called by the Saints here because it bears fruit year round. Breadfruit tree on campus. Breadfruit when fried is delicious...similar to potato chips. It is used much like a potato--baked, boiled, fried, or grilled.

Elder Heimuli never goes far without bringing his trusty knife--puts Elder Hawley's pocket knife to shame!

Elder Heimuli peels the breadfruit and wraps it in a banana leaf to keep warm.

White flowers at the beach

The Heimuli's grandson--Crystal's little adopted boy enjoys the senior missionary couples at the beach!Sunset at the beach lingers in Tonga. Yes, that is blue sky! And a glorious display continues:

New Beginnings--Nuku'alofa, Tonga December 2008

2009-02-01T02:11:00.002-07:00

We were greeted with cheers and waves from President McMurray, his children, and the Thompsons.

Our friends, Elder and Sister Sing from the MTC were there too.Liahona High School campus entrance welcomes us to our missionary homeRainbow on the street where we live.

We love our house #24 on Liahona campus. This is our kitchen and dining area.

We're learning to enjoy these little guys in our living quarters. Gecko lizards love the bugs we hate! Ants..........

Our living room with TV has no reception.

Our backyard neighbor is the Tongan temple--we enjoy Thursday evenings here.

Typical home for young elder missionaries on the islands. This is one of the best in Tongatapu!

Washing clothes in plastic buckets with pvc pipes--one wash and 3 rinses before hanging on the fence.

Pruning the seed pods from the palm tree in our front yard.

Our first visit to the blowholes just a few miles from Liahona---and this wasn't high tide! Some missionary couples take their walk from Liahona to there and back.

We enjoyed the ocean view as we sat under the Pandana trees. They're sometimes called Polynesian paint brush trees because when the fruit falls off and dries it can be used like a paint brush.

Christmas day late afternoon and evening at the beach with the missionary couples and the mission office elders. Elder Hawley and Elder Thompson play a round of golf with tennis balls and pandana tree sticks as Elder Lyon looks on. President and Sister McMurray (Makameli) on Christmas day at the beach.

A Christmas day sunset

Captain Cooks Landing on the Friendly Islands. My, what a tale! You'll enjoy the story below.

Tree blossoms on Liahona Campus in December. How blessed we are to serve the Lord here in the South Pacific, and our dream continues.

ITEP: Welcome to Hawaii & Tonga

2009-01-16T22:20:00.002-07:00

On December 12, 2008 we were welcomed to Hawaii by Elder and Sister Jensen ITEP missionaries on their way home to Hyrum, Utah, and Elder and Sister Salvensen, BYU-Hawaii ITEP coordinators for the South Pacific. We paused in the Haiku Gardens near a Banyan tree: A delicious dinner was served on the veranda at Haleiwa Joe's above the Haiku gardens: We stayed in this lovely cottage the first day in Laie near Hukilau Beach:

From the cottage looking left towards Hukilau Beach:Our 2nd house (top floor) for the rest of the week was directly across the street from Hukilau Beach.

To the right of our beach house is Laniloa Point:The Lizard Story: Lailoa, The Mo'o Laniloa Point BYU-H Education Department where we were trained by the Salvesens and BYU-H faculty The original Hukilau Cafe, where Elvis Presley came often while filming in Hawaii, is a favorite with the locals just off campus. Try the scrumptious mahi-mahi burger! The night before flying to Tonga we had dinner at Jamesons by the Sea with the Salvesens, his assistant Lisa and her husband Joseph. Lisi's entire village of Samoa joined the church when she was a little girl. The baked shrimp and crab with cheese as well as the Mahi-Mahi were exceptional.Christmas time at the Visitor's Center and the Laie Temple

A day at the Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) in Hawaii: Sunrise over Honolulu from the airport window as we depart for Fiji 3000 miles away.

The first sign of land since leaving Hawaii 6 hours and 40 minutes later. Arrival in Fiji: Departing from Fiji for TongaFirst sightings of Tongatapu, Tonga:

Christmas Trees in Tonga

2009-01-01T17:40:00.005-07:00

Our duplex is directly in behind the large palm tree. The Sings are on the right of it behind the small palm tree. Note the temple spires.

These kinds of beautiful trees welcomed us to Tonga on December 21.

Merry Christmas Day from Tonga!

2008-12-26T23:26:00.002-07:00

This Christmas afternoon and evening was spent at Otuhake Beach with the missionaries as well as President and Sister McMurray and their son and daughter, the Garretts, the Sings, the Woods, and the Heimulis. What a great time Elder Hawley had golfing in the sand with pandana tree sticks while I went shell collecting. The Sings and Heimulis were in the ocean relaxing and the young missionaries were into frisbee football. Weather was perfect, in the 80's and cloudy. Huge ocean waves were curling and breaking against coral reefs some 100 yards from shore. Then they'd roll into the sandy beach in 1-2 foot swells. Sunset was glorious.

Sister McMurray told of President David O. Mckay when he was in a boat out in the water near the islands of Tonga as the sunset covered the entire sky reflecting into the immense ocean around him. As magnificent as it was, his comment was that God's greatest creation was man. President Shumway further explained a bit about the heavens and the stars here in Tonga. The sun travels almost from a north-west to south-west direction and the constellations seen in the north on the Mainland are upside down here. It can drive you crazy with no mountains to measure the direction and no northern star.

Silent night, Holy night

All is calm, all is bright.

Sleep in Heavenly peace.

The stars are brilliant tonight against the velvet black sky as we walk to our home past the lighted temple, the jewel of the Pacific. Since it's rededication, Tonga has prospered. Of course, King George is credited with all improvements but we know the true source. May our Savior's light shine forth upon each of you, penetrating the darkness to bring our precious children and grandchildren heavenly peace and joy this Christmas season and in the coming year.

Malo'elelei everyone and Merry Christmas!

2008-12-26T23:25:00.002-07:00

What a beautiful Christmas day it is here. Tonga is so lovely, with a flavor of old Hawaii in the 1930's according the the Sings and the Heimulis. There are "take away" outdoor markets along the sides of the roads. You walk up to the shack, look through the metal grate, point to what you want and buy it with Tongan money. Electricity is very expensive here and so is everything...gas is $6 a gallon. We'll enjoy a beach picnic later this afternoon and evening with the elders and sisters in the mission office as well as the senior missionaries in our complex--the Garretts, the Sings, the Woods, and the Heimulis. Sister Garrett (from LDS hospital) is a medical nurse missionary and Brother Garrett helps the young missionaries with their needs including transportation.

President and Sister McMurray and their teenage son and daughter as well as the Sings warmly greeted us at the airport when we arrived. We had dinner with them in a little cottage nook after we got settled. A Sunday evening Christmas dinner was held at Pres. and Sister McMurray's home for all the Senior couples including those who work at the temple. We recognized many from the Friendly Islands church video. The McMurrays have 6 girls and 7 boys, all living on the mainland except Danny and Michelle. Michelle is 16 and will be going to BYU Provo in April.

Our stake president is 'Inoke Kupu who is also the CE country director. We spent Monday in a couples missionary conference with Pres. Kupu and his wife Moana. (He is on the friendly islands video). He said there 584 missionaries in the South Pacific. The Tongans are all so welcoming! Later that evening Pres. and Sister McMurray joined us with their son and daughter. We all went to the Kaati'ine Restaurant for elegant dining outdoor and overlooking the sea. Their specialty is swordfish.

We couples went on a tour of the islands with Elder and Sister Thompson on Christmas Eve day. A coral reef protects the entire perimeter of the island allowing for some sandy beaches for play and shell collecting. Oh, my, the blow holes are a sight to behold. Small cemeteries are everywhere decorated with beautiful homeade quilt displays and flowers for those who have passed away. One beautiful shore indicates where Captain Cook arrived. The islanders planned to eat him, but his life was saved because the chiefs couldn't figure out how to kill him. Elder Sing said the Hawaiians were cannibals, too, and when he landed on their island they killed him. They respected him enough not to eat him and instead wrapped him in leaves and gave him to the crew. Then they killed the crew and ate them! :) Words can't express the beauty and quaintness of this place. We saw pigs wandering in the bay and exotic flowers are everywhere.

The layout here has the feel of the BYU-Hawaii campus setting only on a smaller scale. Liahona High school is 61 years old and the beacon of the South Pacific. The island is like a foot and Liahona is in the heel The Liahona high school facility, the temple, and our duplex apartments are all in the same complex. Streets are narrow and more like a single land. We have an avocado tree in the back yard and picked some yesterday. They are huge!

We are the 3rd duplex apartment on our lane which lies between the temple and the Liahona high school. In fact, the temple fence is about 150 feet from our back yard. Scented plumeria flowers bloom in some of the yards. There are beautiful blossoming trees everywhere including what many the islanders call Christmas trees because they are covered with red blossoms. The temple is a jewel that brightens the skies in the night.

It will be a very busy time for us after Christmas. We'll be teaching and training constantly at Pakilau Middle School and Havela Middle School on this island and a school at Eua. Teachers are back on Jan. 6 and school begins on the 12. We will fly to Eua in 6 minutes rather than take the two hour boat ride. Even the Tongans say that is the deepest part of the ocean and the sea is wild there.

Mission Premonition?

2008-11-28T18:17:00.001-07:00

This was taken 3 years ago in Hawaii...

And three years later...

Blogging lessons via sons!

2008-11-28T14:00:00.001-07:00

Learning to Blog!!! whooee!

Malo e le lei! Happy Thanksgiving.

2008-11-28T13:40:00.001-07:00

Jeanene brought us the Turkey cheesecake to replace our turkey in the dinner part. Yum!!!