Yesterday was a beautiful day. Not only was it literally beautiful with perfect weather, palm trees, flowers of all varieties and all the sites of Fiji; but we also had two baptisms. One boy is 11, and the other is 18. The second is a friend of Manasa Vunibola, the chief’s son. The sisters taught these two boys. Our sweet Sister Fiu was transferred and flew out the day before they were baptized. I felt a little sorry for her not being able to see it; but the smile was ear to ear on the face of Sister Elias, straight from the MTC. How would it be to have 2 baptisms the day after arriving! I always love the baptismal program, the messages given, the testimonies, and all the smiles. It is incredible to see how living the Gospel brings light and joy into their lives. It changes their whole countenance! Love it!

Sisters Aumua,& Elias, Elder Mong Yen, Oliver, Jone, Elder Kumar
As you can tell by the shadows, the sun was shining brightly! 

Later that night, we went to share a birthday party with Sylvia and her family. She is 18. There were balloons, cake, and lots of people. It always humbles me to see how these people who have so little give us so much. 

As is the custom, they had the “sweets” first. After singing “Happy Birthday,” blowing out the candles and eating the cake and pop, they served a huge dinner. It was delicious, and they even had watermelon that costs a fortune these days. $15 American for a 20 lb melon. I enjoyed it thoroughly. They were so accommodating. They even gave us chairs to sit on and spoons to eat with. The rest ate with their fingers. They say they can mix the food and get better flavor that way.

Sylvia with the Elders. We loved sharing her special night!