My Life in Japan

Why SAMOANS can't be TERRORISTS!!

2006-10-11T08:59:00.000+09:00

Heya folks for all of yous back in Sa.. it must've been one heck of a long weekend aye..lol
Just hope no one needed Pepto Bismo or some other yucky tastin' stuff to overcome the effects of 2 days of heavy eating. Though I'd gladly be reaching for that MYLANTA if I was back home after rolling in all that pork, raw fish, pisupo taro.. (mind torture session) Why do I do this to myself ???
Neeways it's a full on two months for me (lendy mea school) so I'm probably gonna be out for a lil while but of course I will always be on hand to read all about ur daily, weekly adventures... so Pinky don't go MIA again!
For the rest of us away from home guess we can reach back into our memory vaults and remember what White Sunday was like and salivate over the thought of all that yummmmmmy food. Just can't seem to let go shieshh
Well before I get on with the tedious task of trying to get my stuff/act together (you'd think I was 6 being the scatterbrain that I am) I want to leave you with a forward from a friend.

Oh to be Samoan you just gotta Luurveee it :)

The following are some of the reasons (though I am sure u can add a hundred more to the list)as to why we won't make very good terrorists and why Al Qeuda will not be recruiting from our neck of the woods any time soon.

Manuia le vaiaso and HAPPY BLOGGING LADIES & GENTS of course!

1. 8:45am is too early for us to be up.

2. We are always late, we would have missed all 4 flights.

3. Pretty people on the plane distract us.

4. We would talk loudly and bring attention to ourselves.

5. With food and drinks on the plane, we would forget why we're there.

6. We talk with our hands, therefore we would have to put our weapons down.

7. We would ALL want to fly the plane.

8. We would argue and start a verbal/fist fight in the plane.

9. We can't keep a secret, we would have told everyone a week before doing it.

10. We carry around so much luggage we forget which one the bomb is in.

11. After looking at the nice suitcase and thinking of how our family can use a decent one decides not to detonate the bomb.

12. Comes across and old friend chat away and before you know it the plane has landed safely at its destination.

13. Has family in America/Britain and decides to go all the way to meet them why waste a perfectly paid for trip.

14: See's a priest on the flight, remembers the "hellfire sermons" chickens out and confesses to the padre.

15. We would N0T wanna c0mmit suicide f0r no 0ne!!!

16. Thought long and hard about exploding into tiny bits way up in the sky and decided NO we do not want to go out with a BANG after all!

Happy Birthday KING OF LALOVAEA

2006-10-07T19:51:00.000+09:00

Dearest Uncle Manfred Hans Pfeiffer,
You have been my life long friend and you have been there for me, ever since I can remember. I pray to God with all my heart that he will continue to keep you in good health and happy spirits. May he also keep you safe and content in the loving embrace of your family and friends.

Here is to many more birthdays for you dear one. May the smiles never fade from your face nor the generous but mischevious sparkle from your eyes.
We miss you beloved Manfred and wish we could be there in Stuttgart to help celebrate your special day but know that you are much loved and often thought about. Have a fabulous day filled with lots of fun, goodies, yummy food and great company.

Best wishes from all of us here in Japan.
XOXO especially from Elsa.

SMILE ITS FRIDAAYYYYYYYYY!!

2006-10-05T16:15:00.000+09:00

Here's one for all the Island Deevahs. You know who u are! You guys rock muh world.

Welcome to October ladies...White Sunday..good food, good times and great taste but hopefully not Mc Donald''s but wholesome home cooked meals.
Blessed Sunday to you and Yours.

SaYoNnArA KOIZUMI san.

2006-09-26T02:19:00.000+09:00

Junichiro Koizumi, Japan's political leader for almost 6 years relinquishes power to Shinzo Abe.
A big time Elvis fan, Koizumi leaves office after having done a lot to get the country out of the recession it was in since the last couple of decades.
Don't really know how the locals are feeling about Mr Koizumi leaving office but his personality and character will probably be missed by other international leaders as he definately wasn't your typical staunch/reserved Japanese high ranking official. The guy had a pretty interesting sense of humor....
Fare thee well Koizumi san.

Ladies appreciate your husbands....

2006-09-20T14:02:00.000+09:00

Because lately I have been very much in need of a good laugh and this provided it....

A woman home early and found her husband in their bedroom making love to a very attractive young lady.

The wife was VERY upset!

"You are a disrespectful pig!" she cried. "How dare you do this to me - a faithful wife, the mother of your children! I'm leaving you. I want a divorce straight away!"

And he replied: "Hang on just a minute luv, so at least I can tell you what happened"

"Fine, go ahead", she sobbed, " but know that they'll be the last words you'll ever say to me, as no explanation can justify what you have done!"

And he began: "Well, I was getting into the car to drive home and this young lady here asked me for a lift. She looked so down and out and defenceless that I took pity on her and let her into the car.

I noticed that she was very thin, not well dressed and very dirty.
She told me that she hadn't eaten for three days!
So, in my compassion, I brought her home and warmed up the enchiladas I made for you last night, the ones you wouldn't eat because you're afraid you'll put on weight.
The poor thing devoured them in a few minutes.

Since she needed a good clean-up I suggested a shower and while she was doing that I noticed her clothes were dirty and full of holes so I threw them away. Then, as she needed clothes, I gave her the designer jeans that you have had for a few years, but don't wear because you say they are too tight.

I also gave her the underwear that was your anniversary present, which you don't wear because you dislike them as I have no taste.

I found the sexy blouse my sister gave you for Christmas that you don't wear just to annoy her and I also donated those boots you bought at the expensive boutique and don't wear because someone at work has a pair like them.."

He took a quick breath and continued: "She was so grateful for my understanding and help and as I walked her to the door she turned to me with tears in her eyes and said...

"Please........do you have anything else that your wife doesn't use?"

Happy Birthday Daddy!

2006-09-18T12:27:00.000+09:00

I spoke to you a few hours ago
and your voice almost broke my heart.
Barely audible... the first thing you said was
"How are you?" and the next "how is school?"
I wanted to talk with you a little bit longer
but you would not say much more.
But then you were always a silent person so I figured it was your way of avoiding getting too emotional.
I was barely able to wish you "Happy Birthday" before mom took over and ranted about the different foods you guys were having for your special day.
She talked on about who was coming and what they'd be bringing.
Laughing all the while at how you were scowling at those around for making such a big fuss over what you claim is just another day.

But it isn't just another day dad, it's your 80th Birthday and very much worthy of a celebration.The phone call ended on a high mom always knows what to say to make a person feel less guilty. Years of practice I guess.

Then as if propelled by some unseen force I called the US to speak to my sister Luisa. The two of us were the only children missing from the celebrations.
Can't remember what lead to what but all of a sudden I realized that our conversation had taken a devastating turn.

My sister had news for me that literally snatched my breath away.
I felt giddy as tears streamed down my face soaking my shirt.
She had called home last Friday and spoke with my eldest sister.
what was said to her which she has passed on to me is still ringing in my ears
the tears come unbidden again.

My dad is dying...(someone please wake me up) say it isn't so...he's a diabetic...though he has managed to keep it under control for many years... his lungs and kidneys are finally failing. His doctor has advised that the regiment of pills he has been taking has to be discontinued. They are too strong and his gradually weakened body is no longer responding to it.
They are not exactly sure how much time he has left, could be months, weeks or even days.
My dad loves dogs.

My head is spinning and I am trying hard not to cry, but its futile to resist the tears...my hands are shaking as endless thoughts race through my head. I am trying to process them rationally but I am on the verge breaking down.
My biggest fear has been realized
I know that I should have been more prepared for this.
I know everybody dies but it's hard to let go.

The last person I lost who I loved as much as my dad was my Uncle Tuigamala Iopu.
I miss him still everyday and I always wonder what it would have been like were he still alive.
The void he left in my heart is still painful even after ten years.
Since then I have not endured anything so heartbreaking.
I cried a river when my uncle departed how much more will satisfy my sorrow for my father?

My dad has never been one to trouble/impose or inconvenience anyone...anyone.
So I knew that my family weren't going to tell me, my dad would see to it that I would not know and therefore not worry.
Always putting others before his own needs.
It dawned on me why he didnt want to speak to me for long, it's not that he didn't have anything to say it but because he couldn't say it. I know it must be hard for him too.

But now I know and my grief is raw.
It's deep and painful like nothing I had ever experinced before.
My dad could slip away and I would be deprived of a chance to say good-bye..worse he would pass on without ever having met his youngest grandchild.
I am torn between catching the earliest flight home and staying on to complete what he has always encouraged us to do.
To get the best education we possibly can.

I think back to when I was young,
how strong my daddy was,
vibrant, solid, indestructible
How he was such an excellent and capable provider.
Upright, dignified and most of all filled with so much love and warmth
though the years have taken a toll on his health
his mind is still as sharp and alert as ever.

I drift back to the phone conversation with my sister.
She said she spoke with our father for almost 30 minutes the longest my dad has ever been on a call perhaps.
She told him that she knew of his condition.
He replied "I have lived many good years, The Lord has allowed me to live out my life in peace in the presence of those I love.
I have enjoyed my work and now am ready to rest. "

The tears come again like torrential rain splattering on the keyboard. My nose is clogged up so is my mind.
Being so far away I feel so hopeless...
I know realistically there is not much I can do except pray..

I know what I have to say just don't know how to put them into a coherent structure but there is a voice inside my head screaming "Lord please don't take my dad away, please give me the opportunity to see him. To hold him one last time, to kiss him goodbye, to say Forgive me...Thank you and I love you. Yes I am selfish, I know that death is the end of all men but please please just give me a little more time with him. I need it please Lord I need it. Please don't deny me..."

Dad please wait for me,
I want you to hold my lil girl and kiss her on the forehead like you used to with me.
Please dad don't leave me I can't graduate any earlier than March 2008,
I don't know if I will have the strength to continue if I lose you.
I know I must for you but I don't know If I can or even want to
Please dad, love me enough to wait for me.
I love you dad with all of my heart.
Happy Birthday!!
Always and forever your lil girl.

3 Years Down The Road!

2006-09-17T00:58:00.000+09:00

Whew... where did the time go?

It feels like I just turned my back for just a few minutes and already Elsa is sprouting like a wild reed.... Malolo is developing a pot belling instead of the power abs he used to have hoh!..... and I am a neglected, under appreciated house wife *jokes*

Nah I am very happy though easily irritated and despondent at times. I am really quite content where I am, with what I have and who I am with. Though having a couple of mil in a Swiss Bank Account, with a private jet and Mansion somewhere would complete the fantasy heheh! but seriously I am grateful for what I have in life...Have enjoyed the challenges/kodack moments brought about by our 3 years together looking forward to many more (years I mean not challenges..lol.)

Thank you Lord for all that we have been blessed with, the unconditional love and support of family and friends, the laughter and fun, even the tears and tribulations we have been through.The ups and downs we've experinced so far in our marriage has made us very aware of each other's flaws and short comings. But more importantly the peace of mind that comes with accepting the fact that we have to work on them as they won't magically go away, or disappear over night. (somebody invent a instant formula for this one pleasseeee... I'd be the first in line to buy it heh!heh!)

Still learning, discovering new, different and shocking things about one another, it's usually but not always a pleasant experince. However we have managed to find our way around the rough spots and funnily sometimes the heart sees what the eyes are unable to percieve. Through the eyes of the heart everything looks hopeful har!har!

Promise Me.

Promise me sun spangled mornings

and moon sprinkled nights.

Promise me lazy afternoons

and sultry hot midnights.

Drench me in showers of rainbows

to wash away all my sorrows

And in return I promise you

the sweetness of all my tomorrows.

To my dear husband,

If you are game for a couple of decades together I am up for it.

Proud and Happy Graduates.

2006-09-15T19:20:00.000+09:00

Today was our Fall Graduation and many parents turned out to witness the successful culmination of their childrens studies.
For the graduates it was both a time of great happiness and immense sorrow for it would be the last time for most to see friends who have become like family. Those who they have shared 4 or two years of their lives with.

This graduation would have been a milestone for our University for its first Doctoral degree was to be conferred upon our brother Viliami Uasike Latu of Tonga. However due to the passing of his Majesty King Taufa'ahau Tupou IV Viliami could not be here to receive the honors due to him.
As one of the now senior officials in the Prime Minister's Office they are up to their necks in meetings amongst other duties in preparation for the Kings burial. The timming is unfortunate but we can not stay the course of death.

I am very happy that all of our close friends graduated but saying good-bye would be really difficult. I know that I will miss my son Mitchell very much but glad he will be going home to Hawaii to pursue his dream of being a policeman. I know he will make a fine officer of the law.

Elsa with big bro Mitch.

Best of luck and God speed also to our other friends Kensuke, Yosef (Indonesia), Mario (Indonesia) Lahela (Hawaii) Melody (USA/JAPAN), Merissa (Brazil/Japan), Jocelyn (Uganda) Rhazuel Baba (Malaysia), Kevin Abe (USA), Joshi (Nepal) etc

Elsa with buddy Yosef. (Baggio)

Some people leave footprints others....

2006-08-26T20:05:00.000+09:00

One night I had a wondrous dream, One set of footprints there was seen,
The footprints of my precious Lord, But mine were not along the shore.
But then some stranger prints appeared,
And I asked the Lord, "What have we here?"
These prints were large, round and neat
but they were too big to have been made by my feet.
"My child," God said in somber tones,
"For miles I carried you alone,
I challenged you to walk in faith,
But you refused and made me wait."
"You disobeyed, you would not grow,
The walk in faith, you would not know,
So I got tired, I got fed up,
And there I dropped you on your butt."

"Because in life, there comes a time,
When one must fight, and one must climb,
When one must rise and take a stand,
Or leave their buttprints in the sand."

(Author -Anon)

Personal Note : My dream will prob see me lookin' at lil craters with a face imprinted on each one, coz the slacker that I am ought to be dumped on the face instead of muh backside.
But I know God's good, his unconditional love covers a multitude of sins and reaches out even to pathetic people such as myself.
PPS: And since I am oh so fond of piggyback rides all 90kgs of me I will hang on for dear life....lol Have a blessed weekend folks. Peace Out

New Favorite Udon Place

2006-08-25T22:59:00.000+09:00

Felise took us to this Udon(Noodles) Restaurant a month ago.. NARUTO and now it has become one of our favorite places to eat. No.. we have not become vegetarians like our boy Felix who has a lot more stamina but perhaps a little less iron in his blood like us meat eating savages..lol.

It's not just the great food that that has compelled us to visit the place like 4 times since then.The restaurant has a real friendly and comfortable atmosphere and the people who work there look real happy to see you.

Ok, so it's a business and they are obliged to smile at the customers even though it may not match the feelings inside but somehow I feel they give us that little extra attention. Which can be attributed to a number of reasons. Could be the fact that
1 ~ we are foreigners.
2 ~ our physical sizes may be a bit intimidating. (though we are not exactly giants we do tend to stand out from the usually petite locals)
3 ~ they know we always order the biggest plates they've got but will not disappoint the chef by eating only a quarter of it.

A fair number ofJapanese customers weve seen frequenting the place order food they seem to eat a few spoonfuls from and then discard it. Perhaps it's a status kind of thing, customers flaunting their wealth by ordering food they cant really finish or could be just that they dont have our huge appetites, who knows? There's one thing I am certain of, the fact that there aint no chance of that ever happening when the Hamo's roll into the joint. It always has to be the triple size serving with a personal gurantee that it will be finished right down to the juice. The food doesn't just gets eaten it gets devoured..faaaoga le kupe hoh!

Was never really a fan of udon I am the typical islander who will eat ramen/saimigi as is or only when then there is nothing else around or in need of a quick meal. But the presentation of Naruto's Udon has gotten me hooked and I can say for sure that when I go back to Samoa this will probably one of the few Japanese meals I will miss. However despite it being disgustingly healthy and so forth I would pass it up in an instant for a taste of Siaosi's mamoe, Treasure Garden's yummy but greasy food, good ole Pinati's stirfry and the faiai fee's, lumane and matalelei from the market. Mommy's home made raw fish and Beef Wellington yeah rite choo hoo laterzzzzzz.

Congratulations to Nydia & Chee-ku Chu Ling!.

2006-08-24T22:29:00.000+09:00

Dearest Nydz and Chee-ku.
In all the craziness of the past few weeks I forgot to congratulate you two in reaching your First Wedding Anniversary. In between the Chu-Ling Family reunion, baby getting sick, clubs closing down and your boss demanding a lot (taking away precious moments meant for blogging) I am glad you two were able to have time together to celebrate one year of being a couple and of course deliriously proud parents of one gorgeous baby girl.
Getting through the first year is always a challenge... adjusting to the new changes (when the yours and mine become ours and everybody elses) new environment (new address, bedroom, neighbors etc) and to each other but I know that no matter what, with baby in ur lives I am sure you have enjoyed the ride and is anticipating more wonderful events to come.
May God's unconditional love abide by you always, guiding, protecting, moulding and perfecting you in to being the best partners/ friends as well as most the wonderful parents Tinto and her future siblings could ever ask for.

Here is to more fabulous years and a life filled with much love, happiness and success.

"Have courage for the great sorrows of life, and patience for the small ones. And when you have labouriously accomplished your daily task, go to sleep in peace. God is awake."

(Victor Hugo)

Forgive an old woman for being remiss in such an important occassion. Belated Congratulations to you once again.

May your be the kind!

Love always,

Your Beppu Fambam.

Ailing Pacific Leaders...

2006-08-17T15:54:00.000+09:00

The passing of Maori Queen Te Arikinui Dame Te Atairangikaahu, King Taufa'ahau Tupou IV of Tonga critically ill in New Zealand's Mercy Hospital as well as concerns over the health of Tomasi Kulimoetoke, the 87 year old King of Wallis has gotten me thinkin' about the issue of man's mortality again.
Death comes to us all, no matter our stations in life King or Pauper we all share the same fate. There is no fountain of youth, no cure for death and no turning back the clock. We can only hope that we leave this world having done what we have set out to do. We can't all be famous, having created something like the cell phone,new computer software, found a cure for a terminal disease or discovered a new atom/specie etc.
But we can live meaningful lives just depends on ur own definition of meaningful. There is a place/time for all of us to display our individual talents and abilities. Our respective contributions to our societies/families/countries despite of how they may be perceived by others.... matters.

I strongly believe if our being around has made this world a bit better ie: a much friendlier and less lonelier place for at least one other person then we have made an impact. If we are able to give love as well as being on the receiving end then we are not doing too bad.

If during our lifetime we have Hugged a baby, kissed an elderly person, comforted a friend, laughed with a parent/s, lent a hand to a stranger and wiped the tears of a sibling, taught someone to drive, shared a drink with a co worker etc etc...then we have sampled the rewards of some of the simplest but most meaningful moments in life.
There is a lot we can do in life that needs neither money nor status to achieve. In our own families and circles we are all royalty, kings and queens, ruler of hearts and minds.
Getting back to our ailing leaders our own Head of State is getting on also in his old age and should the sun set on the life of Malietoa Tanumafili II, I know that our country will miss this Father Figure. For most of us who were born way after the nation's Independence he is perhaps the only leader of old we are familiar with. It will take some getting used to, should somebody else step into his shoes. A different face on our coins and tala notes, a new name to the title and a new smile greeting marchers during the Independence Parade.

Our situation may be quite different to that of Tonga. The reigning monach has been the absolute ruler of the chain of more than 170 islets since 1965, a 41-year reign that puts him fourth on the list of longest-serving sovereigns, after Thailand's King Bhumibol Adulyadej, Britain's Queen Elizabeth II and our very own Malietoa Tanumafili II.
Life could very well be quite different after the reign of the King should his condition take a turn for the worse. The passing of King Taufa'ahau Tupou IV may signal a new change in the political life of the country or again may make the Royal family even more endearing to the nation, but until then I join my prayers with that of many Tongans around the world beseeching the Lord for his help and care for the ailing monarch.

May God Bless all of us and Long life, peace and happiness to all.

Personal Reflections:

2006-08-16T05:39:00.000+09:00

"Is your place a small place? Tend it with care; He set you there. Is your place a large place? Guard it with care! He set you there. Whate'er your place, it is Not yours alone, but his Who set you there." (John Oxenham)

My place umm is this in reference to my current abode, status in life, financial situation or gender??

Coz if its referring to the apartment we are presently inhabiting it is quite small so its quite manageable.

Status in life: I am no socialite, don't even have a job. Still a fulltime student hoping to one day contribute something of significance to society in this case I am very mindful of my place..lol

Financial situation: where money is concerned my place is so small it won't even cause a ripple even if it wanted to.

Gender : but as a woman a wife and a mother I know where my place is and though my sphere of nfluence may be quite small, keeping my family happy and together is my mission in life.Knowing that the man upstairs has my back gives me the confidence to move forward even when there's trouble looming on the horizon.

"I count him braver who overcomes his desires than him who overcomes his enemies, for the hardest victory is victory over self." (Aristotle)

Now did this guy write this especially for me *jokes* but by golly this is so true. Some of the hardest battles I have fought over the years emotionally/spiritually have been with myself. Trying to restrain myself from overspending, over eating, watching too much tv etc etc the list goes on forever.There is this other saying that "there is more to fear about the things we desire than fear itself" is also true. Have gotten into trouble now and again coz of this. Must learn to discipline self and set good examples for my lil girl.

Never let a problem to be solved become more important than a person to be loved. (Barbara Johnson)

* Scratches head* Jeepers this can be so difficult at times. Sometimes my husband annoys me and vice versa little things that, but sometimes its the lil things that can spark off an arguement. Afterwards you feel bad about saying stupid things and you wonder why you even went there. Slaps urself upside the head but the damage is done. Always gotta remember this one now.

Worry never robs tomorrow of its sorrow; it only saps today of its strength. (A. J. Crown)

Don't I know this, especially when the bills come in all at one time.

I always wonder how my parents used to take care of this kind of 'adult stuff' especially when u think about how small the salaries in Samoa were back then. I guess the best we can do is live one day at a time, the best preparation for tomorrow is making good use of today.

So in order for me to survive the few years of school I have left I have to prioritise my work. Meaning I have to cut down on my tv time and blogging hours. So if I disappear for months on end know that I am still alive and kicking just getting some meaaoga done..lol.

Well peeps that's it from me for now,take care and God Bless.

Been a while..

2006-08-15T20:10:00.000+09:00

Fellow bloggers, hisashiburi ne! (its been a long time)
Been workin' my tush off to get a couple of my papers in on time, needless to say I am totally hammered (is that an approriate term) Working non stop with a few stolen moments of sleep in between is no way to live so I have promised myself that I will change my study habits..umm how old am I now and how many times was that promised made and broken???
Ok, so I am not the most reliable person when it comes to keeping promises to myself and I know I really ought to change in regards to how I carry out my studies but I am so used to this mad dash to beat the deadline routine. It's such a powerful adrenaline rush. But pulling off a couple of all nighters only to walk around in the daytime like a zombie growling at everything and anything is really no fun. Just ask my poor husband and daughter who for most of the time had to keep far far away from me seeing each other only at meal times.
But now I can breathe normally again the bulk of the work's done I still have to edit and revise some more but at least it's under control. When I feel like I am being pulled in different directions I berate myself for being lazy and for procrastinating too much but still haven't learned. I know I have to I can't afford to screw up.
Missing home didn't make things go any easier but the faces of loved ones passing through my mind gave me the encouragement I needed that and the little "mama u can do it" smiles my lil girl would throw at me whenever she comes into the study room to see me, was another major booster. Not forgetting the coffee and sensational meals my husband cooked. I thank God so much for them, whether they feel the same about me is questionable..lol
Well I have to hit the books again soon trying to keep this momentum going but at least there's no pressure as I am on my own time again. I have re-integrated myself back into the family unit. The other two seem a little reserved, I can't blame them they are perhaps wondering when the other persona will pop up again but I guess we have a reprive for now we'll see when October comes around and school kicks in again..lol*jokes*
Hopefully by then mama will be more organized possibly even a model student by then pe a leva lava!

Happy Birthday to the Porter Triplets.

2006-07-31T03:50:00.000+09:00

Happy Birthday guys. May the Lord grant you many more happy days to share together!

With 2 of the Porter Triplets Michael (left) Ron (right)Patrick @ home in Hawaii.

Malolo with Ron and Michael inside the Millenium Hall before the Indonesian-Malay Fashion Show the boys were a part of.

Happy Birthday Shiori chan.

2006-07-29T15:40:00.000+09:00

Shiori Hatsuda with sis Palentina Langa'oi from Tonga.
May life continue to be good to you, as you are to all the people in your life. God Bless you and your future endeavors. May he grant you much love and happiness.Thank you for being such a great friend and a fabulous significant other to our boy Felise.Together may you discover the many secrets of life.

Manuia tele lou Aso Fanau ma ia toe maua nisi aso faapenei.

When You Are Feeling Down

2006-07-26T16:36:00.000+09:00

Not every day is easy, definately some weeks will have more difficult days than others but we should take solace in the knowledge that things can and will get better (eventually)
There are times even when you are in the midst of a group you still feel lonely.
There are moments when you just want to scream your head off due to frustration but know that it will not make things better.
There are even moments when you wish your life could be different but no matter how alone we feel at times rest assured that God is always there.
He will help us along, for some who knows the words of this banner from Sparkletags may hold true for you.

For me usually a big hug and kiss from my baby gurl will do.
So if you are feelin' the blues today here's a couple of
from me and Elsa for you. Take it easy and God Bless.

Finally....

2006-07-25T23:08:00.000+09:00

After being in the country for almost 2 years plus a thousand pleas to use chop sticks.... my husband has finally relented to using them. Though not proficient but he is able to feed himself without help..lol!
It is not that he dislikes them, he claims that the problem lies in the fact that he can not eat as comfortably or as fast as he would like to and therefore unable to fully enjoy his meal as he would with a spoon or fork.
Despite his initial reluctance, he is becoming familiar with using hashi and no longer dreads going to a restraunt and seeing no spoons on the table. This takes care of the embarrasment of having to ask for a spoon or fook and gets given a baby one (Japan you gotta love it!)
Elsa on the other hand has been trying on lipstick that she finds around the house. Not mine of course as I don't wear any, wouldn't know how to put one on without having them smeared all over muh face and maybe even get some on muh teeth (eek not a pretty picture) At two and half she still has a lot of growing up to do so the lipstick has to be put away for now..let's start with the Alphabet first and our numerals before we hit the grown up stuff 'k babes.

Kids they grow up way too fast. One minute they are crawlin' around the house the next they wanna look like the latest teen queen on tv..hell no!
but I guess it's still a lot better than havin Jessica Simpson as a role model (Heaven forbid)

Deck of Cards.

2006-07-25T00:41:00.000+09:00

It was quiet that day, the guns and the mortars, and land mines for some reason hadn't been heard.

The young soldier knew it was Sunday, the holiest day of the week.

As he was sitting there, he got out an old deck of cards and laid them out across his bunk.

Just then an army sergeant came in and said, "Why aren't you with the rest of the platoon?"

The soldier replied, "I thought I would stay behind and spend some time with the Lord."

The sergeant said, "Looks to me like you're going to play cards."
The soldier said, "No, sir. You see, since we are not allowed to have Bibles or other spiritual books in this country, I've decided to talk to the Lord by studying this deck of cards."

The sergeant asked in disbelief, "How will you do that?"

"You see the Ace, Sergeant? It reminds me that there is only one God.

The Two represents the two parts of the Bible, Old and New Testaments.

The Three represents the Father, Son, and the Holy Ghost.

The Four stands for the Four Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.

The Five is for the five virgins there were ten but only five of them were glorified.

The Six is for the six days it took God to create the Heavens and Earth.

The Seven is for the day God rested after making His Creation.

The Eight is for the family of Noah and his wife, their three sons and their wives -- the eight people God spared from the flood that destroyed the Earth.

The Nine is for the lepers that Jesus cleansed of leprosy. He cleansed ten, but nine never thanked Him.

The Ten represents the Ten Commandments that God handed down to Moses on tablets made of stone.

The Jack is a reminder of Satan, one of God's first angels, but he got kicked out of heaven for his sly and wicked ways and is now the joker of eternal hell.

The Queen stands for the Virgin Mary.

The King stands for Jesus, for he is the King of all Kings.

When I count the dots on all the cards, I come up with 365 total, one for every day of the year.

There are a total of 52 cards in a deck; each is a week - 52 weeks in a year.

The four suits represent the four seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter.

Each suit has thirteen cards -- there are exactly thirteen weeks in a quarter.

"So when I want to talk to God and thank Him, I just pull out this old deck of cards and they remind me of all that I have to be thankful for."
The sergeant just stood there. After a minute, with tears in his eyes and pain in his heart, he said, "Soldier, can I borrow that deck of cards?"

A Forward from friend Keith Rose. Author: Anon

Lord, let your peace be upon this earth. So we can live our lives free from fear and worry. Let your peace reign so that many lives can be spared. Though those in the military are called to serve, taking lives and giving up one's life is never an easy task.
Father Bless all those who are away from their families. May they return home safe and sound.
Dear God take care of the elderly, the children, women and the infirm who are living in places where there is war and strife. May they come to know peace and happiness once again.

I ask this in the name of Jesus, our Lord and Savior.

Amen.

Jesus Take The Wheel.

2006-07-24T15:35:00.000+09:00

Today I attended our latest "Research in Progress Seminar." Four are conducted per academic year or twice per semester. This is a forum where we get to present or share our proposals, methodologies/theoretical frameworks, hypothesis/thesis statements/research problems, our findings/conclusions & recommendations and any other relevant information pertaining to our research with our collegues, in the presence of our supervisors and other professors.

Two of my brothers presented this morning Indra and Emil. I take my hat off to these two guys. They put in a lot of hard work, poured their hearts n soul into their research and it was evident in their presentations. Clear and concise it was certainly one of our more productive gatherings. I am very proud of what they have already achieved. Most of the feedback during the Q & A time was positive and useful. I am sure the guys will make any adjustments and editions if thought necessary but so far, I firmly believe that they have done a bang up job!

Indra and Emil plus a couple of other people will submit their final drafts end of September and after that we can only hope and pray for positive results. I gained a lot of insight and encouragement from the seminar. It was also a wake up call for me to evaluate my own progress. The boys enthusiastic and thorough preparations provided not only motivation and inspiration for me but also a clear guideline of what I need to do in order to get my dissertation up to par.

Lord I will do the best I can, but I know that I will need your help to reach that finish line successfully. So please Jesus Take the Wheel! With you at the helm I know that I stand a good chance of getting there, for through you anything is possible even for someone as lowly as myself.

I will continue to depend on you Lord for all and everything. I trust in your faithfulness O God. Look kindly upon your unworthy servant Father, for my strength comes from you and on your love and grace I pin all my hopes and dreams.

Mind Over Tummy.

2006-07-19T23:18:00.000+09:00

I am not much of a breakfast person but if someone were to make it for me I will not refuse (hope ur reading this honey..lol) Though I am more partial to than bread (pei a e masagi, ISA!)

I am more a lunch-dinner type of person, though growing up I've had "the breakast is the most important meal of the day" message drilled into my head not only @ home but also in school. I know this is true, it can start out your day really well. Good for your digestive system, you won't have to pig out so much during lunch or dinner rah rah rah but old habits die hard. Especially if you don't want to give 'em up.
Sometimes I play mind games with myself. In my head I envision what I want to eat (nothing extravagant) and then pretend that it is exactly what I will have, just to get my taste buds going.
The down part is that usually what I end up eating is a far cry from what I imagined but still the process was fun (or not!)

Today however, I thought about what I want to eat as compared to what my husband would prefer (but isn't getting) just to vary my routine. So here we go.
I am hungry and this is what's on my mind.

My husband is hungry and this is probably what's on his mind.

I'd settle for a hot dog with all the yummy fillings, smothered in lots of mustard and ketchup.

I'm sure he'll be just right, eating a super sized pizza by himself.

Wouldn't mind spaghetti and meatballs.

He'd flip for some of that local sausage we have back in Samoa.

I'd be ok with a big whooper and fries from Mac D's

He'd rather chow down on some KFC.

Would love some seafood. Sushi and Sashimi over at Meiji.

Malolo would forgo all that for a juicy grilled steak
I'd eat anything (well almost anything) and wash it down with some cold and refreshing iced tea. Malolo would eat just about everything and
finish it off with some fresh OJ
Now that's out of my system, I will now proceed to the kitchen, check the fridge and see what we have and whip up whatever, coz now I am no longer hungry I am starving. Maybe this game is not so great after all the mind is definately being taken over by the tummy. This is what happens when the weather plays up everything else goes haywire.
Gotta jet..laterrrrrrrrrrrr

Here's one for the ladies.

2006-07-19T23:13:00.000+09:00

I don't usually post jokes but it's raining cats n dogs outside which is a great relief from the suffocating rays of the sun but I can't go anywhere, am stuck in the house, hungry but is too lazy to cook and there are no constructive thoughts in my tired brain so I'm putting this up for the ladies. Many a time women have had to put up with silly, insensitive & in- appropriate questions/coments from men. Most of the time women do not give men the satisfaction by dignifying their queries with a response. Some who do not favor confrontation just turn the other cheek. Then there are those who are able to hold their own, those who stand their ground and are able to dish out just as good as they've been given. To those brave magnificent souls this post is dedicated to YOU!
A young woman was packing her husband's lunch early one morning.

As he walked into the room he told her she was putting on weight.

The woman ignored the remark and turned to walk out of the room.

He then said. "Your behind is as big as a four burner barbecue".

Again she ignored him.

That night, when he came to bed and cuddled up to her, she rolled over and

wrapped the sheet around herself.

Stunned he asked "What's wrong with you?"

She replied, "Why fire up a four burner barbecue to cook half a

sausage!"

PS/ There are also a lot of great men in the world so don't be too hard. Give credit where credit is due. Over and out!

A Random Memory.

2006-07-19T11:47:00.000+09:00

Some memories stay so vivid in one's mind that even without effort they come flooding back and you can recall the details so clearly as if it happend just yesterday.

This incident happend more than 20 years ago but the mind's eye can reach back into yester year and bring back to the present certain memories some which can make us laugh, cry or shake our heads in disbelief. This particular memory involves an old classmate who for privacy reasons I will refer to as X. I met up with X in 1993 I believe upon reminiscing of old times we remembered one funny incident which had us in stitches.

The time when I was in Apia Primary we did not have an electric bell. There was this round piece of metal that you hit with another piece of metal like a handle and it would make a loud clanging sound. That, we used to sound off the start and end of class, as well as the little breaks in between.

We used to compete for the bell as the person who would ring it gets to be the first one out of the classroom for lunch time. "intervals" we used to call these time slots. I wonder if they still use this term? It's entirely possible that the usage of such a word has been rendered obsolete along with the manually operated bell. These days kids usually refer to their break time as "recess"
But wouldn't it be something if they are still using that old bell, as a kind of school tradition?!

Getting back to the story, I am sure some might wonder why anyone would want to compete for such a non glamorous task ? The bell was just a means to an end. Once you've completed the necessary rings, you are then free to proceed to wherever it is you wish to go.
To put it succinctly : "Bell ringing definately was not the highlight of my day, being first at the tuck shop was!"

Being first meant not having to stand in line, where more often that not you'd have to endure the constant pushing and shoving from tons of other hungry kids. Finally after a long wait, you get to the counter only to find that almost everything is gone and what is left, you don't want to eat. But you end up buying it anyways as you are hungry and you don't want your tummy to make funny noises in class. So coveting the bell duties for me was my sure way of getting a good lunch.

Getting hold of the bell however, was not an easy feat. There was no particular person assigned to bell duty. However there was one boy, who took it upon himself to be the guardian of the bell. The classmate I mentioned in the begining. Young Mr X at the time was a child of priviledged means. Being one of only two children born to a British father and Samoan mother. His mom always made sure that his lunch was well prepared every day. If he forgot it, she would bring it to school. He had no need to go to the tuck shop. His spread was way more lavish n far more delectable than what was sold at the school canteen. I on the other hand however, like most of my friends needed that bell to get ours.

Usually X would get the bell in the morning and keep it in his desk, sometimes strangely enough he would carry it around in his school bag. One day our Physical Education class was moved up a couple of periods because of the poor forecast for the afternoon. So we had PE just before lunch. X was not very fond of contact sports and decided to sit out most of the group games.
I on the other hand, would grab every free moment to run back to our classroom to scour the place for the bell.
It was no where in sight. I looked in all the usual places, even inside X's desk.

15 minutes before lunch our teacher asked that someone get the bell and ring it the rest were to go and change back into their school clothes. X got up and voila! there was the bell.. he had been sitting on it all that time.. but something else caught my eye, something other than the elusive bell... that and the smell?
Upon closer observation we discovered that X's pants were soiled not that he had an accident but that he had put the bell on dog crap and then he himself sat on top of it. The Malifa Compound is surrounded by a fence but even then and belonging to neighboring families have been sighted and reported by groundsmen, entering the grounds and running amok. Chasing birds and cats as well as digging up the ground was not all the lovely animals did. They also left behind little trinkets as discovered by poor X.

At first I wanted to laugh and thought to myself "serves him right" but then I knew inside he didn't do it to spite anyone, he just enjoyed ringing the darn thing. I actually felt sorry for him when he handed me the bell while he went and joined those who were off to change their clothers. Luckily for him his ever thoughtful mom had put in a change of clothes in his bag. "For his tennis lessons after school."From that day onwards X wasn't too particular about who rang the bell, infact he didn't mind it at all when I would ask for it almost every day.
"Garfield you're still da top cat in muh book!

Yo Budgie!

2006-07-19T03:45:00.000+09:00

There is this girl at our school and though I don't really know her I have found after a couple of observations that she has this amazing ability to uphold several conversations simultaneously. She could talk on the phone, while maintaing 2 or 3 seprate conversations with other people around her. I don't know if it is a trait she has developed over the years, or if its just her bubbly and energetic personality coming through. To me she is quite interesting.

I remember a time when I was kind of like that. (though I still am quite an interesting person..lol I am referring to my ability to chit chat.)
I remember many a time where I'd get in trouble coz my mouth was faster than my brain. My year 6 teacher Mrs Agnes Stewart had a name for me. Well actually it was name she used to call any student who'd talk un necessarily in class :Budgie.
A budgie she informed our class, was a talkative and noisy little bird
I had never laid eyes on this particular specie, don't know if we have it in Samoa but budgies we were called collectively when we made excessive noise.
A few years later when I was in Intermediate School, I found out via a random conversation with mom that Mrs Stewart is the wife of her cousin Wilbur Stewart from Vailu'u-tai. Never mentioned to mom that she used to refer to me and my class mates as budgies but knowing my mother she would have prob said that it was too mild a term to describe someone like me and that in reference to my ability to chitter chatter endlessly @ times, Mrs Stewart was actually being kind. chooo hooo!

My passion for decorating stuff.

2006-07-18T23:39:00.000+09:00

Hmmm... describing myself again, but then it's good to build up one's confidence, just do it in moderation and no one will feel the need to deflate your ego..lol..
But I think I've always had, a healthy self esteem. I've taken my share of flak for being too overt in my interest in regards to some weird and wacky stuff such as and extreme games but I believe I've mellowed somewhat in my old age. This however has not diminshed my passion for certain things such decorative stuff to create colorful pages, birthday cards, diaries,school books etc.
Hence my love for avatars/glitter animations and the likes..Sometimes I go way overboard but I think I have always been this way.

Take for example back when I was in Year 2, my class went under the tutelage of well known Italian artist Mr Ernesto Corter. (??)He taught us how to put colored glass on a painting that now adorns a Government Office somewhere. My mom almost had a nervous breakdown when she came across the piles of broken shards of glass which I, the ever so eager apprentice had collected in order to create my own masterpiece. Needless to say my art work never materialized, as the glass was duly confiscated and thrown in the rubbish by my mom who then proceeded to watch me like a hawk.Despite not being given the chance to explode my creativity upon the world, my need to create and bring to life something that was entirely my own continued to thrive in the silence of my mind. One day one day...
(I sound like a female version of Dr Frankenstein whoahahahaha!)

Year 4 onwards I would spend hours decorating the cover pages of my school excercise books with that oh so familiar phrase "First Term" ..lol..
I was no Leonardo Da Vinci but I was usually able to put together a passable Title Page. Drawing was second only to my love of stationary and accompanying accessories such as erasers etc. Sure there are other stuff I like a whole myriad of things such as stickers/lunch boxes/ cinnamon rolls/ elegi sandwiches/ pencil cases/ chinese lollies/pop rice/ramen/milk shakes/pagi popo/ keke puaa/ half moon pineapple/ ice pops/ first aid kits and etc etc etc....

Tolerance vs Love

2006-07-18T21:20:00.000+09:00

"We shall steer safely through every storm, so long as our heart is right, our intention fervent, our courage steadfast, and our trust fixed on God. "
-St. Francis De Sales

Tolerance says, "You must approve of what I do."
Love responds, "I must do something harder: I will love you even when your behavior offends me.

"Tolerance says, "You must agree with me."
Love responds, "I must do something harder: I will tell you the truth, because I am convinced 'the truth will set you free.'

"Tolerance says, "You must allow me to have my way."
Love responds, "I must do something harder: I will plead with you to follow the right way, because I believe you are worth the risk."

Tolerance seeks to be inoffensive;
Love takes risks.
Tolerance glorifies division;
Love seeks unity.
Tolerance costs nothing;
Love costs everything.

(Author - Anon)

It's HOT ! Scorchin' HOT!

2006-07-14T03:59:00.000+09:00

It's is so hot right now, I feel as if though my brain is on a skillet being turned over slowly... melting by degrees. (now if you can understand that then either you are as hot as I am or you understand me better than I do myself..lol) Anyways that image has reminded me of that "Say No to Drugs" advertisement on American Tv.
"This is your brain.. this is ur brain on drugs szzht .!"
Not a pretty picture unfortunately, the same can be said of how I look most of the time now. My clothes are sticking to my body not because I am into tight fitting attires but because my tee shirts after a span of say 30 minutes get soaked through looking like they were painted on.

This heat is unbearable, some people may think that coming from a tropical island I should be used to such conditions. Yes I am from a small island where the only seasons we get to experience is Wet N Dry but folks, the beaches are no more than a stroll away. The best ones will require a drive but they are worth the trip. There are also a couple of water holes in town like Fuipu'a and Loto Samasoni, Sliding Rocks if you need a quick fix.

Not forgetting the trusty old water hose. Granted that not every family in Samoa enjoys the luxury of a swimming pool in the backyard but u can bet ur money that most households are in possesion of a water hose. (Our one was bought especially to water my dad's hedge and secondly for my mom to wave around to remind us, of what lies in store for those who mis behave.)
Unlike here in Japan where the water hose is used strictly to wash cars, drive ways, water the gardens etc, back home u can hose yourself down in full view of the passing public if u desire an audience *jokes* ha!ha!

But honestly I am Hot, so hot that the only thought in my head is to find a place where I can sit/eat or sleep without having to wipe my face a kazillion times or fan myself to the point where I feel like I have dislocated my wrist. I want to find a cool place where sweat rags are prohibited. I am hot and I am having trouble sleeping.. even food is losing its appeal. I am hot and not only has it affected my appetite it has also interfered with my usual jolly disposition. (yeah rite)

I have no excuse to offer my husband for my snide un warranted remarks, nor to my daughter for my un responsiveness to her playful gestures.
It's hot and my temper is flaring up right along with it. I am hot and the constant showers are not helping. I am hot and not even the choice of different flavored and in the refridgerator is making things better.

Happy Birthday Achmad Prawira Singawinata.

2006-07-11T02:43:00.000+09:00

Our precious baby boy "Wira" became one year old today. It's incredible how time flies. He is a beautiful child full of life and promise. I just want to enjoy today and not think about the fact that his first birthday will also be the last that we will share with him as his dad is looking to graduate next March and then return home to Indonesia.

Baby boy

Maro picked up the birthday cake around 11 am Elsa and I worked on our card last night. Gotta think of a dish to make and then get ready for baby's Birthday Dinner.

Prawira with his proud parents Chica and Indra Singawinata and friends Alfie and Ai chan.

Wira enjoyin' the company as well as the fantastic spread his parents laid out for the guests.

Overall a wonderful night. Perfect all around. Many more special days for you precious boy. Weand will keep you in our forever.

Wira with big sis Ghati sharing a kodack moment.

North Korea an Ever Present ever Annoying Threat!

2006-07-10T19:33:00.000+09:00

Every time North Korea goes into one of its bad moods and launches nuclear missiles, we who live just on the other side and much too close for comfort get lumps caught in our throats and feel shivers run down our spines. We pray that whatever unresolved issues they have between them, they will not light up their powder keg while we are still here in Japan.
Whether it is just to get attention, like a child with a bad case of untreated ADD or to flex its military muscle North Korea has that uncanny ability to get Japan's knickers in a twist. Usually these little displays of power will end up in five way or six way Negotiation Talks. Usually it will just die down and people go about their lives as before but what if the next time it won't end so peacefully?
What if neighbors such as Japan will take an extreme stand and retaliate?
What if the next time North Korea will have bitten off more than it can chew?
I'd say get me and my family on the first plane outta here!

What has been happening in the past is that after every test world leaders would quickly criticize North Korea's actions. Those who have higher stakes in the problem would scram for allies to help put out the so called fire of dissension and point out the harm these testings can do for peace and stability in the region. The leaders go through their usual routine, closed meetings, diplomatic talks , proposed economic sanctions etc. When they feel they have diffused the troublesome situation somewhat, even if the issue hasn't been thoroughly discussed and settled in a satisfactory manner. They will pack away their big guns thinking their work is done. The nex time North Korea kicks up its antics the world leaders go through the same song and dance all over again.

What I don't get is that this is a country that Red Cross and other Relief Organizations donate food and other supplies to yet they seem to all have the to fund and test a nuclear program.

The following is a report by MARI YAMAGUCHI a journalist for Associated Press Writer with more on these latest develpments:

Japan was badly rattled by North Korea's missile tests last week and several government officials openly discussed whether the country ought to take steps to better defend itself, including setting up the legal framework to allow Tokyo to launch a pre-emptive strike against Northern missile sites.
"If we accept that there is no other option to prevent an attack ... there is the view that attacking the launch base of the guided missiles is within the constitutional right of self-defense. We need to deepen discussion," Chief Cabinet Secretary Shinzo Abe said.
Japan's constitution currently bars the use of military force in settling international disputes and prohibits Japan from maintaining a military for warfare. Tokyo, however, has interpreted that to mean it can have armed troops to protect itself, allowing the existence of its 240,000-strong Self-Defense Forces.

Despite resistance from China and Russia, Japan has pushed for a U.N. Security Council resolution that would prohibit nations from procuring missiles or missile-related "items, materials goods and technology" from North Korea. A vote was possible in New York later Monday.
"It's important for the international community to express a strong will in response to the North Korean missile launches," Abe said. "This resolution is an effective way of expressing that." China and Russia, both nations with veto power on the council, have voiced opposition to the measure. Kyodo News agency reported Monday, citing unnamed Chinese diplomatic sources, that China may use its veto on the Security Council to block the resolution.
The United States, Britain and France have expressed support for the proposal, while Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Aso has said there is a possibility that Russia will abstain
Politics..a lot of rah rah rah and blah blah blah but if it will save the day they can sing tra la la la all they want and I won't even complain.
Its a pity we can't call upon the Justice League and see the Super Hero Folks in action wiping out all the nuclear facilities that pose threats to the safety of every human life. Anyways God is everywhere and he will take care of us like he always has. Until then.
God Bless and Peace to All.

Italy Reigns Supreme.

2006-07-10T02:05:00.000+09:00

The Finals of the World Cup has been played out and Italy has made good on their word that they will take the Honors. It was a fiery match which was awesome to watch. The edge of your seat, nail biting type. It was on like 3 :30 here in Japan and ended around 5 :30 am. Both teams scored one goal each. The game went into overtime 3 times the players looked exhausted and tempers were running high. To show that a game of such importance can affect even the very best. A confrontation between the French captain and one of the Italian players saw veteran Zidane and sole goal scorer for France given a red card by the referee and sent off during the second lot of extra time. His absence was obviously felt by his team mates who despite some good attempts failed to penetrate the Italian goal line.

Though I was hoping the winner wouldn't have to be a result of penalty shoot outs it was decided that way.
The Italian team played with a lot of passion the French were also hungry for a win at the end it was the Italians who came out on top 5-3.

Zidane is looking to retire from International Soccer and it would have been nice to have his international career end on a high with his Team winning the prestigious world cup but the Italians came out and spoiled their plans. And he leaves the international arena in a fashion he would rather forget.

I am not as crazy about soccer as I am about rugby coz our soccer team is like no where near as good as these awesome teams but I follow certain players that I like especially the Brazillian Team (Carlos, Ronaldo, Ronaldhino etc) Beckham (England) De Rossi, Totti & Baggio (Italy) Zidane, Henry (France) etc etc.

Who will raise this cup in South Africa in 2010? The Italians will be sure to come out strong as defending champs. Brazil will look to go 2 better than they did this time. Long time power houses like Germany and England will also be in contention and France will seek to avenge this years loss.

As for other up coming teams like Australia, Japan, Australia etc working their way to the top is a dream that can be achieved if they want it badly enough!

Gotta get some sleep its 6 in the morning already. It's 10 am in Samoa and my family is prob at church. After which they will come home to a fabulous toonai.Most probably they will have "Oka " raw fish in coconut cream/milk umu (baked taro & luau), fried fish, chicken soup, salad, and roasted pork.

Ok I think I better stop before I give myself a headache.

Gonna get some zzzzzzzzzzz so people good nite oh good morning so happy I don't have classes hehe!

In Memory of baby Leanne J. Wong Ling.

2006-07-07T23:49:00.000+09:00

Isaiah 55:8,9.
"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways" declares the Lord. "As the heavens are higher than the earth so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."

What we asked God for and what he has done!
We asked God for more time, and he made the available time eternal.
We asked God to heal her, and he made her whole.
We asked God to take care of her, and he took her hand and led her home.
We asked God to take away her pain, and now it is something she'll never know. We asked God for strength, and he gave it to us through each other.
We asked God for a miracle, and he reminded us that she was one.
In our minds sometimes, we think we are being put through a test, but no matter how difficult things get we should always have faith, that God the Father knows best!
Baby Leanne was born October 7, 2004 and was called back by her maker 6th July, 2006 in Samoa not even a day after returning home. She was all but a year and 9 months old. Heaven has a new in its ranks and her name is Leanne Wong Ling. God Speed little one. Rest well in our Father's Loving Arms.
"God does not necessarily reward the that shine the longest but those that shine the brightest!" (Anon)

To your grieving family,
May God wipe away their tears and turn their sorrow into joy. May the knowledge that you are now in a far better place, safe and sound, ease the pain of separation and the emptiness they're feeling inside.
Fly little one, spread your wings and soar to the skies. And when you get to that place where angels reside send a down to make sure your family is alright.
And should that rainbow report that their days are still blue. Leave a note for the to bring around its bright rays as it would remind them of you. Manuia lau faigamalaga Leanne. You will not be forgotten. Alofaaga,

Tupe & Malolo & Elsa.

A Prayer for Baby Leanne.

2006-07-06T11:21:00.000+09:00

This post is dedicated to a little fighter by the name of Leanne Jemina Wong Ling. She has severe heart problems and the prognosis is not a favorable one. She is not yet 2 but it is most likely she will not have many more birthdays or get to enjoy a lot more Christmases and special times with her loved ones.
Please spare a thought for this little girl and her family and remember her in your prayers.

Lord I woke up this morning and wanted to say,
"Father in Heaven, there is a sick baby who really needs your help today."
Then I realized that you already knew what was in my heart before I knelt down to pray.
That baby Leanne, has always been in your care every night and day.
But still I wanted to let you know, that I am thinking of this child as well as my own. And that there are these burning question in my mind and they are searing through my soul.
Father I would never dare to question your wisdom but the answers to these question, please I would really like to know.
How does one prepare for the loss of a child Father I pray? Does the pain ever lessen, will it eventually go away?
How does one learn to let go of a gift so loved.
In our human capacity Lord can it be done?
Why are some taken so soon before their time?
How does one comfort a mother who may face the daunting task of burying her child?
Leanne is very ill Father as you know.
But if it is your will that she lives God, then let it be so.
We believe that nothing is impossible for you.
Granting her another chance at life is something, only you can do.
But if it is your desire that this child be returned to the safety of your arms
Then may your grace be upon her family, enfold them in your love.
Lend them your strength O Lord, so that they can deal with the pain.
Let them claim your promise that they shall see this child again.
But while she is still a part of this world.
Father please Bless her life abundantly, this precious adorable little girl.
Grant her much happiness, all that her little heart can bear. Shower her with much love and tender care. Allow her family time to store up her smiles and laughter. In order to build a vault of memories that would last from here to the ever after. Most of all, let every single moment she has to share be blessed with joy and fun. More days to be spent in the presence of her sister and loving mum.

Father enable her to be, with those who love her while there is time.

Let her fighting spirit be her legacy for those she will leave behind.

Take away the pain from her little body dear Lord, for a lot she has been through. Only you gracious Father can cure what modern medicine is unable to. Father in your gentle loving care we commit the life of little Leanne. We know no one loves her more than you do, and we believe you know just how much she means to her mom too. So Father please bless her mother and strengthen her faith. Grant her happier times and brighter days. To the whole family lend them your courage and bind them together in a spirit of Thanksgiving. So that whatever the outcome happy or sad, they will continue to praise you for the chance... to be touched by... and to be a part of ...the life of your special child "Leanne".
Bless us dear Lord, my loving family and wonderful friends. And from all evil may your hand defend. Bless our plans and all that we hope to do. May our hearts and lives belong always and forever to you.
We love you Father, in you we wish to remain. We ask all and everything in your Holy Name. Christ Jesus our triumphant Savior whose name we hope to glorify. Our Fortress, our redeemer the giver of Eternal Life.
Amen.

My Week in A Glance!

2006-07-02T18:48:00.000+09:00

Today I am up to no good.For the moment or just before I sat down to blog I was like this little lady here. Layin' around the house doin' absolutely nothing. Am supposed to finish at least one paper but have no motivation whatsoever. There is like this endless song in my head "got to do it, go to finish it, do it now!" but its message is not filtering through to my heart and then out of my fingers. It's like I have lost my zest for studying *truth* I am just plain lazy. I have the Procrastination Bug real bad!
I wish I was like this little guy with his googles and conch shell, hanging out at one of the beaches back home in Samoa. Not in the same attire but you get my drift. Collecting sea shells for a collection I never had but maybe I can start one for Elsa. How I long for a swim in the sea *its been 3 years my last time at Lalomanu Beach.*

So what else has been goin' on in my neck of the woods apart from my domestic chores that seem to be never ending as my daughter makes sure I have no moment of rest or peace for that matter *oh the joys of parenthood you gotta love it!*

It has been pretty much this week, so have been out in force. However umbrella's are no match for the up at the University. As much as you need cover from the rain there are times when you have to close ur umbrella or risk getting pulled along by the wind. *One of the few times one wonders why in the world did they decide to build a University on the top of a mountain??!@* Many discarded umbrellas with their ribs all messed up is evidence of this.

Talking about umbrellas remind me of back home when it rains all of a sudden. People without one usually grab whatever is around that will offer some protection/cover and off they go if they are in a rush.
The trusty breadfruit leaf usually did it for me when I was young but that was when there wasn't a lot of me to keep safe from the rain.. now unless the leaf is a giant sized one I'd be soaked to the bone in a matter of seconds..lol
Went up to the Cyber Lab to print out some of my material. Took the 5:10pm bus up and came down on the last one for Ishigaki 10:25 pm. As I was sitting there swivelling in the chair while waiting for my papers to be printed. I remembered when Nydia, Koyu and I would go up to the Lab to download music and movies. I can't remember for the life of me if there was ever any studying involved. The University is so isolated we had to come up with ways to amuse ourselves and pass the time so that was one of our strategies.

We would turn on almost all the computers to download whatever new movies we wanted to watch. We'd stay there until 12am until the security would come to lock up and we'd like pack our stuff real slow to to buy a few more minutes if one of our movies was almost done. We ruled the Cyber Lab. Most of the time we'd get movies with really poor quality and some had the right title but wrong feature film but it was fun *good times*
Back to the present: Met up with Patricia who had a class with Prof Berwick. Lisa and Elsa then proceeded to have dancing lessons inside the Cyber Lab. Early preparations for "Oceania Week" go girls!! There were a couple of other students there but they didn't mind. I guess it provided some comic relief for a few minutes.
Went to the library, never went there before at night.* How long have I been here now?* lol. Discovered that it closes at 9:30 pm. What was I thinking that these people lived in the building?? Well truth is I wasn't THINKIN'! The lady at the conuter asked me if I wanted to just go and grab a book it was ok. Well I needed books ..like 15 of them and maybe if I was Flash Gordon.. I could have done it in the few minutes that were left on the clock before it struck 9:30 pm. But me and my snail pace requires much more time than the available 5 minutes so I respectfully declined and marched my silly @$$ back out into the rain.
Looks like the rains won't be letting up anytime soon. It's typhoon season for Japan but hopefully we won't have any of those. I used to wish for typhoons to happen because we'd get the day/days off from school but now since I don't have classes anymore they are more an inconvenience now.
So now that I have blogged about practically nothing I will go back to bed, hug my pillow *have a lone pillow fight, hit myself on the head* and hope to be inspired to write an exceptional paper or at least a decent blog entry worth reading.
But that until then I will dream about... sitting in a rock pool somewhere dipping my feet in da water waiting for my cold drink to arrive....
over and out. PEACE!

I Believe

2006-06-27T01:11:00.000+09:00

I believe . . .
that we don't have to change friends if we understand that friends change.
I believe . . .
that no matter how good a friend is, they're going to hurt you every once in a while and you must forgive them for that.
I believe . . .
that true friendship continues to grow, even over the longest distance. Same goes for true love.
I believe . . .
that you can do something in an instant that will give you heartache for life.
I believe . . .
that it's taking me a long time to become the person I want to be.
I believe . . .
that you should always leave loved ones with loving words. It may be the last time you see them.
I believe . . .
that you can keep going long after you can't.
I believe . . .
that we are responsible for what we do, no matter how we feel.
I believe . . .
that either you control your attitude or it controls you!
I believe . . .
that regardless of how hot and steamy a relationship is at first, the passion fades and there had better be something else to take its place.
I believe . . .
that heroes are the people who do what has to be done when it needs to be done, regardless of the consequences.
I believe . . .
that money is a lousy way of keeping score.
I believe . . .
that my best friend and I can do anything or nothing and have the best time.
I believe . . .
that sometimes the people you expect to kick you when you're down,will be the ones to help you get back up.
I believe . . .
that sometimes when I'm angry I have the right to be angry, but that doesn't give me the right to be cruel!
I believe . . .
that just because someone doesn't love you the way you want them to, doesn't mean they don't love you with all they have.You have to decide if that is enough.
I believe . . .
that maturity has more to do with what types of experiences you've had and what you've learned from them and less to do with how many birthdays you've celebrated.
I believe . . .
that it isn't always enough to be forgiven by others. Sometimes you have to learn to forgive yourself.
I believe . . .
that no matter how bad your heart is broken the world doesn't stop for your grief.
I believe . . .
that our background and circumstances may have influenced who we are,but we are not responsible for who we become.
I believe . . .
that just because two people argue, it doesn't mean they don't love each other And just because they don't argue, it doesn't mean they do.
I believe . . .
that you shouldn't be so eager to find out a secret. It could change your life forever.
I believe . . .
that two people can look at the exact same thing and see something totally different.
I believe . . .
that your life can be changed in a matter of hours by people who don't even know you.
I believe . . .
that even when you think you have no more to give,when a friend cries out to you you will find the strength to help.
I believe . . .
that credentials on the wall do not make you a decent human being.
I believe . . .
that the people you care about most in life are taken from you too soon.
(Anon)

Smurfs Addict!

2006-06-26T18:44:00.000+09:00

Because it is Monday and I have not had a proper sleep since Saturday. I have no inspiration to write what I have been up to lately and even then I haven't done anything interesting worth blogging about so instead I have travelled back in time to bring to the present a memory from my past of something I used to enjoy.

When I was young like a trillion years ago I used to wake up early Saturday mornings to get my weekend fix of American cartoons. I would sit infront of the telly to watch the KVZK line up which included Godzilla, Turbo Teen, Rubic the Magic Cube, The A Team, Pony Tales, Mighty Orbots, Spider Man, Care Bears, Scooby Doo etc etc.At the top of my list was Smurfs I was addicted to it.
If you can remember these cute little blue people then you might understand my fascinaton with them. I loved all of 'em from Papa Smurf, to Brainiac, the little painter guy, that joker who loves to make explosive presents, the baker...
I didn't understand why there was only one girl Smurfet

but I loved their adventures especially their little village.I loved each time Papa Smurf and his little group of feisty followers would foil Gargamel's evil plots and Azriel would get zonked on the head and see stars the silly cat.
Many times I would find myself humming the theme song "la la la la la la la la la" Quite a catchy lil tune.I don't know if my daughter will enjoy the Smurf's show as much as I did as she is very much into the Japanese manga & cartoons such as the Puffy and Ami Show, Transformers, Powder Puff, Pokemon etc but I hope she will be a smurfs fan in the future. It can be one of the many things we can share together!

A Woman's Tears.

2006-06-21T20:29:00.000+09:00

I can still remember what our Samoan Language teacher Mr Afatiti Leiataua said to us one day in class when I was in Samoa College... "E taugata loimata o le tina!". A mother's tears are exprensive. He wanted to remind us that the tears a mother sheds when she is happy is a far cry from that those she releases when she has been hurt by something we or others might've said or done. It didn't register then but it sure makes a whole lot of sense now. I gave my mom a lot of grief back then and even sadder I think I have brought her to tears once or twice. Thinking about it now I pray that she has either forgotten completely or has totally forgiven me for all that. (knowing my mom she probably did both a long long time ago)

I think of some of my friends whose mother's have passed away already and I thank God that mine is still around. That even though the aches and pains of old age is quickly catching up with her, she still has her wicked sense of humor and all the other loving qualities that makes me so proud to be her daughter and grateful that she is my mom.

What has brought this on?? This little piece of writing has something to do with it. Came across it while I was browsing my fav graphics site Sparkletags.
Hope you'll enjoy it.

I believe all women, ought to be treated in such a loving way. Neeways I'm gonna demand money for my tears next time someone makes me cry *jokes* This one is for you ladies.. something for the gentlemen to ponder and hopefully put into action!I love these little stories and so I have added this one to this entry perhaps it will help clear up many things for a lot of people. Why do Women Cry? A little boy asked his mother, "Why are you crying?" "Because I'm a woman," she told him. "I don't understand," he said. His Mom just hugged him and said, "And you never will." Later the little boy asked his father, "Why does mother seem to cry for no reason?" "All women cry for no reason," was all his dad could say. The little boy grew up and became a man, still wondering why women cry. Finally he asked God. He said, "God, why do women cry so easily?" God said: " When I made the woman she had to be special. I made her shoulders strong enough to carry the weight of the world, yet gentle enough to give comfort. I gave her an inner strength to endure childbirth and the rejection that many times comes from her children. I gave her a hardness that allows her to keep going when everyone else gives up, and take care of her family through sickness and fatigue without complaining. I gave her the sensitivity to love her children under any and all circumstances, even when her child has hurt her very badly. I gave her strength to carry her husband through his faults and fashioned her from his rib to protect his heart. I gave her wisdom to know that a good husband never hurts his wife, but sometimes tests her strengths and her resolve to stand beside him unfalteringly. And finally, I gave her a tear to shed. This is hers exclusively to use whenever it is needed." "You see my son," said God, "the beauty of a woman is not in the clothes she wears, the figure that she carries, or the way she combs her hair. The beauty of a woman must be seen in her eyes, because that is the doorway to her heart - the place where love resides." (Anon)That's it for today folks!

Omedeto Gozaimasu Tama Sii Tonga.

2006-06-18T00:38:00.000+09:00

Ph.D (Permanent Head Damage) Crew : It's so serious we can't even tell time. The watches are just fashion accessories.

Palentina and I flanking our boy "Dr Viliami Uasike Latu"

Congratulations to our brother and collegue Vili or may I say Dr Viliami Uasike Latu. Our little Island community is extremely proud of what this son of the Pacific has achieved. He is the very first person to graduate with a Doctorate degree from our University.
The parent University Ritsumeikan in Kyoto is about 150 or so years old our one Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific Uni was only established in the year 2000.
The Graduate School opened in April 2003 and we were the first ones (yay I'm part of history...yeah rite) there was only 11 of us undertaking Masters then, 2 doing their MBA's and 3 in the Ph.D program Vili, and two other Japanese students Ai Sasaki and Toru??. Ai had her baby in 2004 and took a year off for maternity leave. Toru had to go back to work don't know much beyond that. So Vili had to tough it out by himself.

With no clear guidance and very limited financial help for research and the likes (yes yes we are APU's very own guinea pigs but are ok with it) Vili with the help of his supervisor Prof Mani, persevered and now has successfully completed the program. He is an inspiration to us all and God willing we hope and pray we can emulate his success.
Vili's final hurdle (last requirement) was his oral defence yesterday. After 3 gruelling hours he emerged exhausted but victorious.
The benchmark has been set, the path has been walked .. So for the rest of us we need to put our heads down, push on and follow his footsteps. There is a light at the end of the tunnel and if an expression of elation is anything to go by..the one on Vili's face is enough to convince us all.

I can only imagine how happy he must be, and his happy mood was so contagious for a while I forgot about the sad cloud that has been hovering over me since I learned of the passing of my friend Raponi. For a time all was right with the world again.
I want to be able to experience this feeling. I pray that come February 2008 tentative date for my Oral Defence I can do my family, country most of all my Heavenly Father proud.
Malolo,Vili, Elsa and Felise @ Utaudo celebrating our boy's success.
Congratulations Again to Dr Viliami Uasike Latu of Tonga. Also to his supervisor,family and friends back home in the islands.
God Bless you bro. Will miss you when u return home but await your return for your graduation in September. We will be there to witness the official recognition of your proud achievement. A first for APU! The "P" (Pacific) always comes after the "A" (Asia) but this time thanks to you it has coveted first place.

"Malo le finau!"
Ofa atu.

My Deepest Condolences.

2006-06-15T13:50:00.000+09:00

Today I came across some tragic news whilst reading a friends Blog. The kind that you wish was not true. The kind that requires you to sit down and rethink certain things about your life especially in regards to the time that we have or don't for that matter. It reinforces the notion of just how precious are the times we spend with loved ones whether they be family or friends. The body of a friend of mine was found yesterday back home in Samoa floating in the sea in Savaii. There is speculation of foul play. I do not have all the details yet but it is enough for me to know that he is gone. That his life has been snuffed out like a candle. If suspicion holds true that his life came to a unfortunate end at the hands of a heartless killer/s who then disposed of his body in the sea. How little is their regard for life and obviously no thought for the people to whom this once vibrant life belonged to : such as his parents, family, and especially his poor wife who is also a dear friend of mine. If the autopsy proves it to be an accident it still doesn't take one iota of pain away from a life taken too soon or a relationship torn asunder by the cruelty of death. Raponi and Charlene are friends of mine from UPY. I have known Char much longer than I have Raponi coz we had been classmates and friends since Samoa College but when they got married almost a decade later it made things even better. My head is still swimming and I am telling myself that maybe if I squint my eyes hard enough when I go back to Nydia's blog his name will not be there but this sinking feeling in my stomache is telling me that it is true.I think of Char and how she may have reacted to the dreadful news and was so overwhelmed with the scene in my head that for a few minutes my vision was blurred!I tried putting myself in her place and just couldn't, I can not even begin to fathom what she is going through. The immense sorrow, devastating pain.. the emptiness... the million thoughts and questions racing through her mind. How one, single thoughtless act has taken away the spark from her eyes . Unable to keep her world from crashing and stop the tears that come unbidden. How she must be struggling with the WHY Question that no one has the answers to or one that can satisfy as it won't bring him back!How was one supposed to know that a trip over to the Big Island would mean Good bye forever!How many more years had they envisioned together, maybe even children down the line. Dreams and hopes for the future snatched away by a thief (murderer/s) in the night. Robbed of a happy and long life together, deprived of more intimate moments with her husband. Thinking about Charlene's loss is heartbreaking.Though it does not necessarily make it easier or less painful when we lose someone to old age or illness we are at least comforted by the knowledge that we at least had the time and opportunity to say our good byes and be with them as much as we could but when their life is cut short by an accident or by someone else's savagery it is extremely difficult to accept! Char my friend, may God give you comfort and strength to weather this difficult storm.
To Raponi's parents, family Asau & Vaimoso.

May God's love and grace be upon all of you through this difficult time.

Hey boy,

How time wraps itself around our lives so seamlessly that it feels, as if it were just yesterday that we were in class together, talkin' about what we were gonna be and what we wanted from life. How bright the whole world looked back then, at the old UPY campus in Malifa where we contemplated our futures. How you came to be known as Flash for reasons that never cease to put a smile on my face. How proud you were to point out the special places in Savaii to us ignorant Upolu kids during our Arts Fieldtrip. So full of life, so much to give and live for.

How did it end so tragically my friend? I don't think anyone saw this coming but I know you will be sorely missed by all who have come to call you friend. Those who were captivated by your infectious smile and sense of humor. But there is one who will miss you above all, that special someone who has built her world around your love. Whose life became entwined with yours with the promise of tomorrow but now has to go on alone, your loving Char. Though it seems so unfair that death has robbed you of your life together I believe wherever u are there her love will be, as yours will remain with her forever. I will miss you my friend and it will be hard coming home knowing that you will not be around but Thank You for the great memories I will cherish them for all time.

So long "Flash."..May you find rest and peace in the arms of our Heavenly Father. You will always be remembered.

Reminds me of my poor husband...

2006-06-15T13:21:00.000+09:00

and the poor man will never hear the end of it. I know that sometimes one is not in control as these things kind of have a mind of their own but for richard's sake excuse urself afterwards..lol

God Hears Prayer God Answers Prayer.

2006-06-15T13:12:00.000+09:00

God always answers prayer.
When the idea is not right God says "No"
No ~ when the idea is not the best.
No ~ when the idea is absolutely wrong
No ~ when though it may help you it could create problems for someone else.

When the time is not right God says "Slow"
What a catastrophe it would be, if God answered every prayer at the snap of your fingers.
Do you know what would happen?
God would become your servant, and not your master.
Suddenly God would be working for you instead of you working for God.

Remember: God's delays are not God's denials. God's timing is perfect. Patience is what we need in prayer.

When you are not right God says "Grow"
The selfish person has to grow in unselfishness.
The cautious person must grow courage.
The timid person must grow in confidence.
The dominating person must grow in sensitivity.
The critical person must grow in tolerance.
The negative person must grow in positive attitudes.
The pleasure seeking person must grow in compassion for suffering people.

When everything is alright God says "Go"
Then miracles happen:
A hopeless alcoholic is set free.
A drug addict finds release.
A doubter becomes as a child in his belief.
Diseased tissue responds to treatment and healing begins.
The door to your dream suddenly swings open and there stands God saying "Go"

Dr Robert Shuller.

To Tickle Your FuNnY BoNe!

2006-06-10T20:05:00.000+09:00

If a picture is worth a thousand words then how many laughs is that??

Dare to be different make a Statement with ur Wedding Cake!

"Oh No You Don't!!... You n I are getting married even if I have to drag ur sorry @$$ shouting and screaming all da way to the altar!!"

Ask any mother and she will tell you how she can never forget the first time she felt her baby move. I don't know if this is trick photography or not but if this is real this mother not only felt the life inside her the little guy or girl made sure he/she was also seen. .."yep the I was here footprint! "..

"Crikey this is so difficult should never have gone to that ... love ur fellow creatures... sermon on Sunday. Howz a guy supposed to enjoy his meal when it just gave you a HuG!!"

"Hey lady u got milk my momma ran out?" Hope you won't mind I'll just help myself.. aight!!"

The latest in Swim Wear.. The No Tanner out now in a Flea Market near You!

"Have a great weekend!!"

JenJen Celebrates Another Year of Life

2006-06-06T17:17:00.000+09:00

As I am writing this I realized that today is one of those fancy numerical days that can be written as 06/06/06 kewl ne..

It was our Jen Jen's Birthday last Friday and we got her a cake but we couldn't keep it a suprise as we did not know where the light switch was. Found out later that the lights for the place where we usually have our meals is turned on directly from the Security Office. So because of that there was no place to hide our cake and Jen walked in while we were trying to light the candles ..lol..but it was still
Lisa presenting Jenny with her cake and Elsa just has to be where the action is. There was a lot of food so we kept the cake for breakfast the next morning. Well we had to give the birthday girl a taste of her cake so about 11pm that nite we helped ourselves to a couple of slices ..lol.
We were just really happy that Jenny was able to spend this birthday with us. To top it off she was able to bring our brother Faafetai "Peter" Feliuai from Kyuragi.

This here is our very own

with her Birthday Cake.
Jenny and her Volleyball Boyz after a game with Nana and Martina's team. Jen graced us with her beautiful voice again @ night sang a lovely duet with our brother Tai. It was just so da bomb, then another number with Linny. Such great talent.
I don't know the plans the Lord has for this young lady but I pray that she will always use her singing ability to magnify and glorify her Heavenly Father because she is so gifted. Her singing just goes straight to the heart. Jenny would be so in her element as a pastors wife but like I've mentioned before only God knows what's in store for JenJen but whatever it is I know she will be more than up for the task.
Saturday 3rd June. We returned home from Camp. Ata, Jenny, Sho and Yoshida sensei helped shuttle everyone back home. Many Thanks to you all. We had a really lovely time. No one got sick or injured, we had a wonderful time worshipping and praising the Lord together.
Though a bit drained from the Camp Lisa with a little help from Malolo & Nana prepared for Jenny's Party. I was so I conked out and woke up around 6pm.
Mitch n Mike got Jenny another cake. Kylie n the Indian twins Isha and Cher?!, Lahela and the others provided wonderful company. Lisa and Nori drove all the way up which made it even more special.
It was a wonderful night and I hope Jen Jen enjoyed her little party.
Oh and she walked in on us trying to light up the candles on her cake AGAIN!! Jenny, the prayer of hearts is that God will continue to lead, guide and walk with you on your life's journey. That he will give you strength for each day as well as good and faithful friends to make the journey a memorable experience.

Though you are far from home and away from your parents we hope that in some way your substitute one was able to show you just how much you are loved.
Still working on how to get the rest of the photos up on Bebo but hope these will do for now.
God Bless you dear.
Birthday Present/Verse: Psalm 91:14-16.
"Because he loves me" says the Lord ," I will rescue him. I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.He will call upon me and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver and honor him. With long life will I satisfy him and show him my salvation."

Friday Family Fellowship Camp 2006.

2006-06-05T17:51:00.000+09:00

We asked God for good weather he gave us 3 perfect days and two awesome nights. All we prayed for he granted and more. God is faithful and he provides to the point where your cup will brim over.
The day before Maro, Lisa, Elsa and I put the finishing touches on all our preparations. We checked and re checked if we had everything and at the time it seemed like we did. But I later found out @ the Camp Site that they did not have wooden spoons or the likes to stir food just these long Chop Sticks thingys but still it was all good. 3/4 from the checklist aint bad har har!! but really I had such a good time what was lacking could not take even one iota away from the whole experience.
Thursday June 1.
After taking Uncle, Aunty and the children to the Camp Yoshida sensei picked us (Malolo, Lisa, Martina, Elsa & I) up from home around 10:15 in the morning. We loaded up all our stuff and off we went. Our next stop was Sekinoe Marushoku where we were supposed to pick up Win, Vhelle and Manami. We could only fit Win, as the car barely had available space.. poor Lisa was wedged in between the bags and futtons. We had all the shopping for the food plus our mattresses and suitcases so we could only take one more person.

As we made our way up the mountain we could feel the poor car giving it its all coz of all that weight but we made it safely to the camp site about 30 minutes later. We unpacked and sensei came back for the others. Sho was the other driver so between the two of them they managed to have everyone there before 12 pm. Elsa and Kyoko hit the playground immediately. After running thru the schedule Lisa had everyone allocated to their cabins and respective groups.
We had our bentos/lunches checked into our respective cabins, enjoyed our free time and then got ready for our first session at 3pm. After the session my Cooking Crew and I got dinner on the way. We had baked lamb, chicken stew,and boneless mutton stir fry with rice (of course ..lol)

While we were making dinner the rest of the crew was with Victor and Maro playing games. Mark and Sho went to pick up Nana from the airport he came all the way from Osaka which was so sweet.Most participants had their shower around 6:40pm and @ 7pm dinner was served. I was estatic coz for our past camps dinner did not always make the alloted time we'd either be 30 minutes or an hour late but this time we were right on the mark. I guess practice makes perfect.
Yoshida sensei gave a message about Service. A very important lesson for all of us: How in all that we do if we do it for God then we are praising him and magnifying his name with our abilities.
Elsa was so tired from all the exitement she fell asleep around 9pm. I was able to spend one hour in the bath in the oh so nice tubs. Lights out was 10pm which was kinda early but most of us were tired so we went to bed not only willingly but gratefully.
Friday June 2nd:
5:00am woke up had my quiet time. 6:00 am started to prepare breakfast. 6:30 am Maro and his boys from cottage E helped carry breakfast up to the main eating area.
Again another beautiful day. Thank You Lord. Morning excercise with Lara and Nana.
Another session more praise and worship.
Time for cottage practise and group practice for our Talent Show in the evening.
Prepared Lunch : Spaghetti and baked chicken with salad. yummmmm
More group preparations. Lisa and Sho went to pick up Jenny's cake. Tai and Jenny followed them back to the Camp Site.
It was such a blessing to have them there.
Uncle had a treat for me..he and Win prepared dinner giving me time to practice with my group and just hang out. whoopeee..
We went sliding took photos etc.
Ata arrived safely.
Had dinner. Sang Happy Birthday to Jen and gave her her cake.
Talent Show began around 8:30 pm we had lots and lots of fun finished up around 11pm.
Went back to our cabins had some of Jen's lovely cake oishii..
Hanged out with Lisa, Maro, Jen and Tai.
Had another lovely bath.Went to bed around 1 am.

Saturday 3rd June.
Woke up at 5am did quiet time.
6am prepared breakfast Kyoko and Sylvia gave me a hand. Breakie was ready before 7am.
Praise and Woship.
Led our reflection time. Really great to hear what each person had to say, how they felt. 10 :30am Uncle concluded our Camp with a prayer, more words of encoragement and thanked all whose contibutions financial and othewise made the retreat such a success.
Went back to our cabins cleaned up. Made sure everything and everyone was accounted for. Sho began to shuttle people back, Jen and Ata who have cars helped out. Sensei dropped us off again. Extremely Tired but just so very happy until I got home and realized that this might very well be my last camp. Elsa and I will be in Samoa for most of next year for my research. So we will miss the Spring Mid Semester break Camp sniff!sniff! unless there will be a Fall one but who knows what God has in store.

I am just so grateful that he has blessed our time together in such a way that it has exceeded far and beyond my expectations. But then again God never does anything in half measure. Thank you Father for all the precious gifts you have entrusted to us (life and love and our families) as well as those you continuously bless us daily with such good health, good friends, safety and happiness
Hallelujah and AMEN!

What we have to look forward to...jokes

2006-05-30T15:15:00.000+09:00

Not quite the scenario or picture you envisioned of u and your loved one growing old together aye?

Well you know what they say... " Different strokes for different folks!"

Some of us if we are lucky will just grow old, then there are those fortunate ones who have the together part down to T. As for the rest we're just gonna have to find that other half first and then decide if we wanna do both together..*jokes*
Not every body's relationship sours as the years go by some fall deeper and deeper into love coz the years have brought understanding and acceptance. Love is not always doomed there are many couples who have managed to live happily ever after.

So I say live well coz we might not live long and live close by even if we can't live together but most of all just live we all have different ideas on how to do it but as long as we live happy, healthy and productive lives we can figure out how to make the most of it (ie:find out what gives meaning to ur lives..family, work, faith, etc) as we each go through our respective journeys.

Have a great one people. Over and out.

Terrific Thursday June 1.

2006-05-29T23:05:00.000+09:00

Booyah,
Quarter break is just a couple of days away. Come Thursday, we are off to Oita Nogyo Bunka Koen or "Oita Agricultural Park" which is like 45 minutes away. It is a lovely place they have tucked away here coz it looks like part of the country side has been transplanted to the middle of this concrete jungle.

It's a vast tranquil area with fruit trees, and soft waters winding their way through the compound like a snake pursuing some unseen prey. Lush gardens with butterflies dancing on flower petals and windmills like a scene out of the "Man from La Mancha" (the adorable but wacky Don Quixote) There are several well placed gazeebos enhancing the beauty of the landscape. Fun slides and rides for the young and old alike. There are Butterflies displays, ice cream parlours and other stalls in the main complex. Yep there's something for everyone.

But I am getting ahead of myself here..in meaning "we" I am referring to our Friday Family Fellowship Group. This will be our 4th Camp and a perfect opportunity to get re-aquainted with each other as we have been busy with school. It is also a fun way to get to know our new members. As in all our past camps we invite both Christians and non christians alike, as well as APU and non APU students.
"Elsa at the Park our excercise for the day"

Registration Fees is only 2000 yen or $17 dollars but it's really a sweet deal.The cottages are spacious, elegant and clean. The grounds as I have mentioned before are just breath taking, there's lots of leisure acrivities that one can partake in. The meals which we will prepare ourselves will be awesome I just know it. (I'm in charge of the food so you can bet it's gonna be good) We are gonna have, chicken stew, pasta primavera, salad

baked lamb , thai curry and good ole sapasui he!he! yum yum..
We will have our bible study, group sessions, men/women sharing time, meditation hour, quite time, personal time, group talent shows, country performances,testimony presentations. Lots of singing, games, fun you name it. I know that we will have 3 fabulous days and 2 wonderful nights. I pray for great weather but rain or shine I believe we will have a grand time.

"Maro's cake from Indra, Chica and baby Wira"

My husband's birthday is today but the poor man is at work. I feel for him but he's willing to work on his birthday so that he can have Thursday & Friday off to join the Camp. We can celebrate his birthday there instead but we did have a fun time yesterday after church. We my husband, Mark and I went to Fresh Burger a great new place downtown. After that it was off to see Da Vinci Code at 4:40pm. Malolo fell asleep half way thru.. ummm after paying $15 bucks I made sure he was up for the remaining one and half hours. Had late dinner with our fambam around nine in the evening with lots of ice cream and cake courtesy of Felise n Shiori n Yoshiaki. The gurls made yummy salad again. I still owe him a present but I am such a good wife he says its all he needs *jokes*

Moving along I am excited to be out in them wide open spaces again I have one paper that needs to be in by Wednesday so I guess I better go over it again. I don't want to spend any time thinking about school requirements while I am camp. I am looking forward to being refreshed...rejuvinated..revitalized. Maybe to catch up on much needed sleep but I so want to take advantage of the beautiful natural surroundings I might forgo the notion of sleep. But for now I have to start rummaging thru our dresser to pack the clothes we need, toothbrush etc etc.

As I have mentioned Camp is Thursday 1st June. Though it will only be Wed 31st back home..I still want to wish everyone a "safe and enjoyable Independence Day!"
God Bless Samoa: from the Head of State and his deputies,to the PM and his Cabinet. The Honorable Members of Parliament. Church Leaders, Traditional Chiefs, Heads of Depts, Parents, children, the aged, this sick, the disabled, wealthy the healthy, teen agers, govt workers, private companies/businesses, foreign expats, prisoners. cops, nurses, whatever be ur ambition or present status in life. If you are Samoan I wish you a fun time.

I miss watchin' the early morning parades. It remains one of my fondest memories of my dad sitting on his shoulders watching excited faces pass by, the long boat races, the brass bands and marching girls competitions, school performances etc.

Reminiscing about special days like the Independence Celebrations makes me pray even more that God will grant me the opportunity to bring my little girl home one day so that she can eat sugar cane and lopa. Peel some mandarin oranges and buy BBQ on da roadside while watching the colorful parades go by as I used to do.
"Ia faamanuia le Atua ia Samoa ma lana Sisiga Fua"
Best of luck to our Guard of Honor during Inspection time. Hopefully this year no one will faint. To me that has become like a classic feature of the Celebrations, like the Papauta girls with their talcum powdered hankies and the Avele Boys with their insgnia yellow seashell necklaces.
God Bless all of us. Long Live the People of Samoa.
Till next time.
Fa laia.

I love Rugby.

2006-05-27T21:30:00.000+09:00

Watched the Finals of Rugby's Super 14, Hurricanes versus Crusaders... oh did I say watch it was more like tried to, as the conditions were deplorable. I can't believe that the final game was allowed to be played in such poor weather. It was so foggy that all I could make out for most of the time were little bits of red n yellow all mangled up together.

I know that it would've been difficult for the players to agree to cancel the game coz of the thousands fans who turned up but boy, what a match it would have been had visibility been at 100%. But the game is over and the Crusaders Team once again have proven the mettle. It's congratulations to them and they deserve their win but you also gotta hand it to Rodney n his boyz they came out fighting and kept the top team tryless right up till the last 20 minutes of the game. Tana Umaga, Jerry Collins, Weepu,Maa, Isaia Toeava n the others went out hard and gave it their best. They should all be proud of what they have managed to achieve during this Super 14 Tournament. It was one of their best performances ever.

Though I was rootin' for the underdogs the 'canes I wasn't upset when the Crusaders won as the only try was from Casey Laulala (Samoan decent), there's also Mose Tuialii and a couple of other boyz with Hamo blood in them in the Canterbury side. Don't know if they have been to Sa lately but I'm proud of their skills anywayz.

I love rugby all kinds of rugby :union 15 and 7 aside, touch, league... I miss watching live games (ie: sitting at the stadium screaming your lungs out!!) lol.. but thankfully the Japanese are into rugby as well now. They have lots of foreign players playing for diff clubs here.. they must be paid good money as Leon Mac Donald, Willie O (former Wallaby) and other seasoned players of great calibre have signed up with wealthy clubs like : Sony, Coca Cola, Sanix, Kubota, Panasonic etc.

There are a lot of Tongan nationals also playing for these teams a few Samoans but I wish more of our talented youngsters/players would find their way over so that they can earn some good money for their families. A three year contract with the possibility of an extension is a good opportunity to fatten up one's bank account.
I wish the SRU would find a way to get some of our boys over here.

Congratz again to both teams for a fine effort despite the lousy conditions.
Ps/this fiercely contested game highlights the fact that New Zealand has so much talent to choose from. The skills and strength displayed by the players will ensure the All Blacks remain a force to be reckoned with in the Rugby world.
I don't envy the job of the NZ selectors but I wish our local selectors had the same pool of talent to choose from.

For our "Manu Samoa" I hope and pray that we will be able to field and send a formidable team that will live up to the proud legacy our past reps have worked so hard to establish.
I can't wait for the next World Cup.
Rugby Rocks what can I say...

My Day.

2006-05-25T18:49:00.000+09:00

Had a quiet morning, didn't do much but sit, eat n blogg while contemplating my status as a student studying in a foreign land. Why now??? I guess I am still hung up on how the spectrum of life can change in the blink of an eye. How we could be on top of the world one minute and then find ourselves in the dung heap the next.
Take for example the Samoan student now on possible charges of manslaughter for the death of her newborn baby which she tried to dispose.
How far can this moment in her life be, from when she first discovered that she's one of the precious few to covet a scholarhip to study in New Zealand??
How half way through her studies she finds herself in a totally alien and scary situation.
How difficult and heartbreaking it must be for her, to bear witness to her own life spiraling out of control landing her in a nightmare that is able to perpetuate itself even while she's awake.
How many times must she replay that fateful scene in her head wishing she take could take it all back.
How riddled her heart must be with a sense of shame, guilt n remorse.
How painful the images she is inwardly processing, the pain amplified as the faces of her loved ones becomes clearer in her mind's eye.
I love the Samoan word for students and other people sent overseas to study/work etc
Lupe Faalele
I don't exactly know the direct english translation for this term but the image that comes to mind are little white doves being set free to soar.
The only thing that troubles me is, what happens if one of the doves hits a snag along the way and break one of its wing? Who will help it to heal?
What if they get caught in a trap and is unable to free itself? Should it be retrieved?
What if they get lost who will lead them home?
What if one returns home without an olive branch how will it be received?
Though I am speaking metaphorically I really hope the answers are positive. At least for my sake.
Not everybody can breeze through Uni. There are those who's characters are tailor made for the world of higher learning. Then there are people like me who need to give it a 101% each time in order to make it but can only cough up so much as 51% as my poor brain has but a few functioning cells remaining as the rest were fried in the last 2 decades.
As Fotu mentioned there is a lot of additional weight that we bring with us on our initial trips to college/uni, aside from the apa pisupos that our mama's stuff in between our clothers just incase we are not used to the food or get hungry in da middle of the night. (God bless all our mummies) The expectation of parents, villages, govt plus families who've already worked out which office you'd work for and how much ur likely to earn can weigh heavy on the minds of the young and eager to please Sons and Daughters of Samoa.

After two degrees it hasn't gotten any easier for me. Every time I sleep in, I can distinctly hear my mom's voice my very own built in alarm system saying " Nofo i luga e te fiu lava e moe pea oo mai le oti, taimi lenei faaaoga lelei aso mai le Atua aua ele mafai ona toe maua mai"
Get up you can sleep all u want when u are dead. Use wisely each God given day becoz once they're gone they are lost forever." Learned a lot from my dear old mama hope I can pass on the same constructive advice to my litte girl when she is old enough to appreciate it.
I have never been on a Samoan govt scholarship though. I have been real fortunate yes extremely blessed. I was on an AUSAID scholarship when I did my B.Admin in Australia @ James Cook University, my M.Sc and presental Doctoral pursuit I owe to the generosity of the Japanese people via the Mombukagakusho or MEXT Scholarship. Though I am not obligated to go back to Samoa and work as I am not a party to the usual govt bond I will gladly go home if there is a job there for me. Samoa is my heart and I am fiercely patriotic (can u tell?? har har) Though the money one makes back home in a year is like a fraction of what u can earn here in a few months. I don't mind going back home to some obscure cubicle or shared office somewhere.
Though I am not here on our local tax payers blood n sweat.(or is it $$ from other ODA's diverted to the Education system ?!?) It's even more difficult for me as I see on a day to day basis the elderly Japanese doing menial jobs. I constantly find myself thinking "its their money..don't fail..its their money".
Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University is a private University so the tuition fees are a much higher than the public ones. My tuition fee is 700,000 yen per semester (abt $6,500 USD)multiply that by 6 semesters as the program is 3 years. The total comes to 4,200,000 yen about $40,000 USD. To me that's a lot of money, my papa don't have that kind of doe so I am very grateful for the financial assistance. I don't know how to repay it except to do well and finish strong.
I am half way through my program (wheww!!but I know I will need a whole lotta prayers to make it through. I also need to read my Bible daily and Trust in the Lord to take care of my needs. I know I will need a lot of prayers so please send some my way. Well it won't be long now so I guess I better dig deep and do what I need to do. I have to stop procrastinating it will come back and bite me in the @$$ one day.Anyways keep you loved ones close and thank the Lord for his many blessings every single day.

Where do we Turn? Who do we Turn To?

2006-05-24T16:51:00.000+09:00

After reading Jody's blog today about the Samoan student who after giving birth to her baby tried to hide it in the garden outside her dormitory brings a lot of unsettling questions to mind.
Like who does one turn to in times of trouble when they are too scared or too ashamed to ask help from family and friends?
Who can they share their burden with whilst being assured of discretion and absolute confidentiality? (is this possible?!**)

One of the first thoughts that came to my mind was a story my momma told us when me and my sisters were young (Yes I once was young too..lol.)My mom was very open with us concerning all aspects of life,love, marriage etc.
She touched upon the topic of pregnacny one day n said "Should one of you fall pregnant and if whoever knocks you up" * not her words but u get my drift* " does not want to marry u or acknowledge the child. Your father and I (dad was not part of the conversation nor was he anywhere near) will take care of you and your baby. However if it happens again, it will mean 2 things 1: You still have not learned and are extremely gullible or 2: you actually like it and with that you will have closed the door on yourself " (dear old mom never one to sugar coats her words)

Anyways on with the story : When she was working at our National Hospital back in the days there was an English nurse who was also a nun who worked in the Maternity Ward. My mom said that whenever a young girl in labor was brought in she could feel how uncomfortable the other nurses on shift were. She discerned the same look on the faces of those bringing in the young mothers to be. Sad aye?

This was not so with the English nun, mom went on to say how she'd tend to the patients so tenderly and with her limited knowledge of the language tried to comfort and encourage them. The memory that has stayed with me was what the nun said to one particularly distressed girl of about 19.

After giving birth the girl refused to hold or even look at her baby. After the baby was cleaned up the nun brought the child to his mother for his first feeding. The girl refused to take the baby until the nun said ..."Tilotilo i lau pepe, fai mai le Atua o o'u foliga na ua avatu e foliga iai lau tama. E faamanatu atu ai lou alofa ia te oe"
" Look at your baby, I have given him my face to remind you that I love you!"
Yes love can cover all.
Perhaps God did not really say that but its not impossible, even if that nun just said it to make that young mother feel better. How wonderful it must have sounded to someone who must've been carrying a heavy load of guilt n shame.

I wish someone, anyone had spoken a word of encouragement to that young student.
How different things might have turned out.
This is a problem that needs fixing NOW before another precious life is lost or destroyed. It can happen to anyone, to people we love and care about.
My daughter was born in the first year of my Masters Degree my situation was a little different as I had a fabulous support team. Koyu, Line, Nydia, Edna, Patricia and the rest of the Crew. There were some difficult moments but everything worked out in the end.

In recognition of my heartfelt gratitude I named my daughter after the girls Kolinyedcia in abbreviation of all their names. It wasn't much but at the time it was the only thing a financially strapped student & new mother could come up with.
But in all seriousness I too needed help to sort everything out. In retrospect of my situation compared to that of this poor student in Otago I belive I was mighty blessed.

2 and half years later. My family all together...One degree down and one to go, my daughter has become a naughty lil' minx (quoting Mr Simon Cowell of American Idol) healthy and happy. Everyday I learn something new about myself whenever I am with her hopefullys she's learning something too. As mentioned in an earlier post Kolinyedcia has her own place in our University. She's coveted the distinguished Title of APU MASCOT..lol.
Getting back to the issue : My prayer is that this young girl with help from God, her family and friends will be able to get herself together and move past this dark episode. Granted it will not be easy but from the shards of her old life she can forge a brand new one.
Little sister I pray that you will be comforted
We all make mistakes, some life threatning others not so serious. How we deal with it is sometimes influenced by the reaction of others (family /close friends/society etc.) Usually we can get ourselves off the ground if someone puts out a helping hand.

So please don't knock someone who is already down.
Don't sneer or laugh when someone even those you are not very fond of get in trouble.
Somebody somewhere quoted "If Malice had a physical shape it would be that of a boomerang"
Please spare a kind word or always have one on reserve. You never know one of the people you may have spoken to within the course of a day would sincerely appreciate it.
Note to self : Be a little more sensitive, a little more understanding, forgiving patient and generous.
No I am not striving for sainthood (my halo is still intact) *jokes* Nah we have enough of those self proclaimed "Purrrfect Beoble" already.
Life is not always easy but most of the troubles that some consider insurmountable can actually be worked out given time and patience. Some parents can and do get over the shock of a pregnant daughter though a little disappointment may linger it is usually washed away once they see the little baby's face.
Even the coldest heart can melt at the sight of these immensely cute little creatures ..lol.
People will talk, some will point fingers, other will turn up their noses others will pretend not to know you but all these obstacles can be overcome with a little faith in urself and a lot on da man above.
All I can say is that for those who insist on carrying on with their fia kanak ways they'll just have to bite the bullet for as they say in France "cest la vie". Yup yup get ur heads out of the sand people we are living in the 21st century.
There are more devastating probs to consider such as how to change the ignorant minds of the NCC and let the sachiks watch DVC *jokes*

Pregnancy is the natural result of having unprotected sex. Lesson well learned no need to rub it in. Not being able to watch a movie coz a bunch of old guys think they know u better than u know urself is not natural and has to be remedied. But I'll strobbit there as this poor topic is like already been thoroughly discussed.
So in answer to my question where do we turn, who do we turn to??
Hopefully to :
- loving & understanding parents.
- Loyal and trusting friends.
- an Accepting and forgiving church
- a responsible and supportive partner/boy friend/sperm donor etc
- a compassionate support group initiated by govt.
- our everloving ever forgiving God who clearly states in Isaiah 43:25
" I even I, am he who blots out your transgressions, for my own sake, and remembers your sins no more."
So when you are tired of looking around.. look up!
For everyone who has been touched by this tragedy. Let us all strive to do what we can to prevent this from ever happening again.

Da Vinci Code Blue.

2006-05-23T17:37:00.000+09:00

Aside from getting poor reviews by most film critics (seems that not even Tom Hanks star power could bring it glowing acclaim) I found out from my fellow bloggers (Jody, Fotu & Nydz)that Da Vinci Code is banned in Samoa. It appears that the National Council of Churches (a bunch of religious zealots perhaps a lot like Bezu Fache the character superbly played by Jean Reno *the only shining light of the movie* well meaning but still a bit extreme) has deemed the movie unfit to be screened. They have labelled it as "provocative and therefore likely to create confusion and dissension amongst believers."
A lame excuse as there are hundreds of reasons why many have turned away, have become disillusioned, and therefore have no time nor apparent need for God in their lives.
Just as there are hundreds more why there is dis-unity amongst the different branches of Christendom or Christianity itself ... but we will not go into that as I am no theologean)

In my opinion (not that they would care) it is they, the NCC who has done the very thing they claim the movie is likely to do. By prohibiting it they have given credibility to the supposed fictional tale by Dan Brown. Therefore planting seeds of doubt in some people's minds.
People will begin to wonder why the NCC would go to such lengths to prevent this movie from being shown. Are there elements of truth in the story? Was there really a cover up?
If there is one thing that arouses the curiosity of people is when somebody puts a stamp on something saying "Do not Open/Touch/Eat "etc.
The allure of the forbidden fruit is sometimes overwhelming and many can succumb oops was about to veer off the beaten track for a moment there. Yep I digress all the time.

* Bogging myself down.. sitting on hands maybe not I need to type*

Continuing..Despite their efforts, people in Samoa will see the movie one way or another. (Jody has promised the girls she will send a copy home so there!) and they will be able to make up their own minds about the film despite the warnings and prohibitions. Not everybody freaks out whenever certain materials pop up which contradicts that of the Bible. But really why so worked up over Christ being married why not kick up a raucus when he was depicted as a gay man in the "Last Temptation of Christ???" * Just a thought!*

Patricia bought me my very own copy of the now infamous "Da Vinci Code" book. Thank you dear.I read it within a span of 3 hours as it was quite captivating yes, I found the authors ideas a little disturbing but still intriguing. Granted it can stirr up certain emotions but when u are trying to write a bestseller you are compelled to move your audience. "No wow factor no sales... capisci !"

Dan Brown found his niche and capitalized on it. Ron Howard figured he could take the popularity of the book a step further and turned it into a movie. So what? Call it what u want..good business, making a living whatever just don't make it what it isn't. It's not a calculated evil plot to topple the Christian Faith. ( Everyone who has a plan skewing towards world domination has to get approval from Jody first anyways..lol)

Granted everybody is entitled to an opinion whereas there are those who don't quite get what all the fuss is about others are deeply affronted by the details of the book. Now that the words have been brought to life its become even more unthinkable for some. I however am confident in the ability of the Bible to defend itself. The church and its belief in the Holiness of Jesus Christ has lasted more than a thousand years. It has withstood persecution, attacks and criticism long before we and Mr Brown entered the world and I fully believe that it will survive long after we are gone.

Dan Brown is not the first person to try and discredit the Bible nor will he be the last. Other writers have undergone years of research to prove that the Bible is just a bunch of fables. It's value merely to entertain and help some discover some kind of meaning to their lives. Some have remained skeptics but others have been convinced of its legitimacy and validity in a profound way.

Take Lew Wallace a General during the American Civil war who later became the mayor of New Mexico. He started out trying to find holes in the Bible but ended up writing a memorable Testimony about Christ. His book was also was made into a movie, which remains one of Hollywood's grand epics. A lot of people Christians and non Christians alike have either seen or heard about it "Ben Hur" : A Tale of Christ ". Did anyone complain?? Don't think so!

I wish somehow that members of the clergy if they are so concerned with the souls of their parishioner being at peril. Would work doubly hard to convince their followers of the truth instead of coming down hard on one movie. They should set positive examples that reflect the qualities of Christ and practise what they preach especially the faith part, coz from their recent actions ...faith in the people is not too high on their list.

It is sad when Church leaders underestimate the conviction of believers. To the point where they feel they have to step in, to prevent a total breakdown of what has become the core part of the lives of many. To make decisons on behalf of people as if they are so shallow and flimsy that a mere movie will cause them to abandon what they have come to accept as the truth. (Give us a little respect people we are a bit more solid than what you give us credit for)

I think it has come to this coz the churches have become too institutionalized. And it is not always easy to love an institution let alone be loyal to it. Their fears may be valid but it does not give them the authority to take away a persons right to decide for themselves what they should or should not see.

This goes against the teachings of the very faith they are supposedly trying to defend.
Free will is one aspect that helps sets Christianity apart from other religions. We are free to decide whether we desire to worship God or not. Free to believe or disbelieve. When someone body else steps in and decides for you.. you are deprived of a freedom which is God ordained.

I am sad that the NCC have deprived the people of that choice, sadder even that our government would support and enforce it. (but who am I to speak against the might of the powers that be!)
In all fairness the church reserves the right to make clear its stance. Issuing a statement/plea requesting the multitude to refrain from watching the movie is not only in my book a diplomatic/democratic and sensible thing to do it is infact the right thing to do. But to ban it totally as if they know better than everyone is a bit much.
As my fav island bloggers have already aptly disected this topic I will conclude my 2 cents with this.

When church leaders do not have faith in their words,it's understandable that they'd believe ordinary people will not take them to heart and therefore be easily swayed.
(Is banning Da Vinci Code the solution then... NO!)
When you really believe in the truth of what you preach your mind n heart will be at peace. For you know and trust that "Faith in the accuracy of God's word the "Bible" is like his love, never changing, never ending, immovable,unbreakable and steadfast.
Should people be allowed to excercise their free will... ABSOLUTELY!)
Man's relationship with God is more personal, deeper and lasting, it is not easily cast aside nor erased. It is a covenant forged between an accepting heart and the higher power which it has surrended to. Binding And Everlasting

So ends today's sermon. Amen!

The Love Goes On & The Fun Continues

2006-05-20T23:33:00.000+09:00

Just when I thought the fun was over I was pleasantly suprised Friday night at our Fellowship Meeting when I was presented with another Birthday Cake..oh yayyeerr and Tito Jun (Uncle Francisco) sang this beautiful song just for me.
I was touched , deeply moved as it was a first for me in the presence of others.
I gave my humble, heartfelt thanks to everyone for all the prayers, best wishes and prezzies.
My gratitude extends to the warm messages from:
- preediful brainiac Nydia of Malie momma of angel bebe Tino Chu Ling.
- sexy Jenz Hawaii/Samoa)
- glamour gal Fotu.V (soon to be of Hawaii/Samoa)
- classy J.J FotuoSamoa (New Zealand/Samoa)
- oh well Colorado Springs/Fagaalu Am Samoa.
- my lovely Jen Jen in Saga,
- my beautiful Loma in Kurume
- sweet Bessie in Tokushima
- darling Nara up in Tokyo
- Sassy Brenna in Kumamoto
- hearthrob Faafetai in Karatsu
- dear Anna Dobrovolskaia Russia/Creo Heights
- fabulous Icha Indonesia/Ishigaki
- delightful Ayako Hiwasa of AP House.
- King and Queen of Lalovaea Manfred and Puaina Pfeiffer of Stuttgart Germany
- Koli, Elenoa & Tiapepe Uiagalelei of Futiga Am Samoa
- niece April Esera of Iliili Am Samoa
- nieces, Lemina, KJ & Line brother Esera (Samoa.)
Honto Ni Arigato Gozaimashita!
After our fellowship we invited Yoshiaki kun over for a late dinner yep it was real late. Got back to our house around 10pm, had our dinner around 11:30. Ata Tintin and Lisa went to the Conveni and bought loads of snacks n drinks. We pigged out till 1am. Ata Tintin and Maro watched a replay of the Hurricanes vs Warratah Game. Not bad. I tried hard to keep quiet about who won as I already knew results from Fotu's blog.
Elsa dozed off so we were all able to enjoy the match.
After the game I could not go to sleep so me and Maro stayed up to watch tv. Good line up though : Revelation, Bones, CSI Miami.
6:00am had our morning devotion and personal quiet time. 7:00am went to sleep. It was Saturday so it was ok to sleep in. Got up around 2pm it was such a lovely day compared to the rest of the week which was mostly cloudy with scattered rain here n there.Earlier on in the week the weather chanel predicted that there was the possibility of a typhoon coming our way but I guess the Lord thought otherwise.
We took advantage of the fabulous day so Ata drove us to Oita. Browsed the malls lookin' for some big clothes for Maro as either his ones are shrinking from the wash or he is gaining a lot of weight but because he is tall it's not so obvious.
We ended up at Don Quixote had lunch at some restaurant Ata paid for our meals. She went even further and got me the lovely chair Malolo and Elsa are sitting on plus my other goodies. Poor girl had to get it as I didn't want to move again once I sat down on the one that was being advertised in the store. Well all this love merited a second entry in regards to my birthday. I needed to express my sincere thanks to everyone especially to my husband and baby Ata
Thanks sweetheart. Love you God Bless your dear Heart!

to me... to me ..what a fantastic week it has been. Thank You Lord for all the love I have received.

On with the story:
Had ice cream at Baskins n Robbins oh yeah! Came home, ate some more... Malolo made us corned beef stirfry like how we do it back home with chinese cabbage etc yummm... Full and content I entered Slumberland again. I conked out for a couple of hours and now I am up again.Ata and the girls (Tintin, Huong, Lisa??)have gone to Oita to Cool Banana to be precise,last night was Sugar Party but there still may be a few brave souls who'd venture out tonite.

Tomorrow I am leading our praise and worship before the actual service. Yikes.
A little unsettled as I don't have 'em japanese songs down yet. Have to get up early and practice. Malolo is waiting for the replay of the Crusader vs Bulls game might stay up to watch if I have the energy. I already know who's gonna win so I wont be mising out on much.
Well that's it from me for now.
Wishing everybody a Safe and Happy Weekend.
Happy belated Birthday to my niece Line who turned 24 yesterday Friday 19th, nephew Hans who is turning 22 Saturday May 20, niece Elenoa Gloria who will be 14 I think Sunday May 21
From the family here in Japan a gift in the form of a prayer. Much alofa's to you all.
Mental Note to self "I love Birthdays yes I do especially Mine. I looooooooove Birthdays yes siree!!"

One Year Older Hopefully Wiser!

2006-05-17T23:38:00.000+09:00

After the age of 21 I began to detest birthdays ok maybe that's a bit harsh I loved preparing for other people's birthdays. I'd get real excited when I would be invited to one just didn't have the same enthusiasm when it came to my own. I loved getting the odd present from here and there but the age thing kinda put me off the whole deal. I wasn't always like that but because other people made a big fuss over it my attitude towards this particular event began to change.

After a while I realized just how silly I was instead of being grateful I was complaining as if I was getting penalized for being alive.
So I got rid of my negative attitude and actually looked forward to each birthday. Counting the many blessings I have received since the last time I celebrated the day I came into the world.Instead of looking at the number I actually looked at what I had achieved so far as well as think about what I am about to do with the new year that I have been given.

This new system has allowed me to fully understand that saying "Age is Mind Over Matter If you Dont Mind it does not Matter because its not so much the numners of years you have lived.. its more like how you have lived and what you have done with the years alloted to you....Ok I think I have just confused myself ha!ha! but somehow I know you get my gist..

I have had the most awesome Mother's Day ever and to top it off my husband took the day off so that he could spend my Birthday with me. He bought me a new digi-camera with the help of Jen Jen: A Sony DSC-T5 with 5.1 Mega pixels. I am not a technical person so I dont really know what this gadget can do all I know is that its new, has a nice silvery color and it takes really nice pictures.. ( I know I am so lame but really grateful)

My darling husband prepared dinner for me and the fambam but I had to finish it off as he had to go back to the camera house to get them to set the darn thing as all the instructions are all in Japanese nice......

Anyways I am not complaining I am just real siked about my new toy for the year.
- Patricia Margot Florance Catherine (Lisa) and the rest of my children got me flowers...the lovely bouquet in the foto and my sweet card which was signed by our friends up @ school
- Tintin took charge of my AwEsOmE birthday cake.
- Brother Indra, sister Chica and baby Wira got me this beautiful Indonesian shawl.
- Huong got me a Lacome Perfume Set
- brother Kaituu send a sweet message.
- Felise n Shiori chan got me a new blouse.It's amazing how they were able to find something nice that would actually fit me here in Japan..lol..
- My son Mitchell got me a lovely flower arrangement.

Somebody is gonna look flash on Sunday and smelling like a Spring fairy..ok seriously i don't know if there are such things as fairies n if there are what they'd smell like.. har har but all in all I had a lovely day and I can not thank everybody enough for making me feel so loved and special. I am really touched and overwhelmed by the best wishes sent in, prayers, kisses n hugs.
I have been on cloud nine since Mother's Day... I tell ya I could get used to being pampered. I know I have to come down sometime and perhaps it will be sooner rather than later but however short or long this ride will last I have enjoyed every single minute of it. I miss not having my babies Ata, Esera & Foli around as well as my darlings Jen Jen. Loma and the rest of the crew but I know I will see them soon so that's a consolation.
God has been real good to me. He has allowed me to live this long. I pray he will add more years to my life at least to see my little girl have a little one herself. I may be pushin' it a little there but it is the greatest wish of my heart.
Once again to all of you near and far who have given my life so much joy.. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Birthday resolutions still undecided: I am still torn between eat less and sleep more or eat more and sleep less. But eat more and sleep even more is begining to sound better and better but in all seriousness I will definately try to eat less and sleep less but If u were to invite me to ur birthday party I'll throw everything out the window and just enjoy all the yummy food as for sleep I can always find a secluded corner to curl up while I wait for my food to digest then we can start all over again (Jokes) Have a Nice One.
Shiori chan bringing out much cake woot woot!Mina san Arigato Gozaimashita!

Martina N Fungavai Turns 21.

2006-05-10T01:44:00.000+09:00

Today one of our friends who is more like a younger sister/daughter turns 21 the lovely and funny Miss Martina Navratilova Fungavai from Tonga. Yes her parents were hard out Navratilova Fans hence the name. But like her namesake she's gotta a pretty mean backhand. Tina has represented her home country in a number of tournaments and circuits. Tintin or Quito as she is affectionately known around here lost her mom some years ago, but despite not having a motherly figure around she has managed to work her way through many obstacles to study here at Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University on a Monbukagakusho (Japanese Government) Scholarship

Though far from home we hope to put together a party that would stay in her memory for a long time. So at 12pm we are supposed to be up at school second floor of the Cafeteria. Kaitu'u her uncle has already ordered a cake and we just bring food and drinks of course our delectable selves har har.. Lisa will spring for some KFC and the boyz Tim Tams. Then Saturday we will have the whole shebang oh yayer Partayyy at Spa Beach.

In most of parts of the Pacific including Samoa when a child turns 21 they are presented with a giant sized key whose tradition it is or where it originated from I don't know. It is usually a piece of wood carved to resemble a house or door key adorned in colored glass with numerous designs supposedly symbolic of the personal freedom they have now attained. Meaning in parts that decisions that will directly impact their lives will be on them. You can still count on your parents for support financial or otherwise but if you find your self in a jam you try to get out by yourself or give your buddies a holler..lol..

One can only imagine the kind of door you can open with such a key: but you can also interpert it as your official ok to consume alcohol.. Uh huh!.. you have finally graduated from cordial drinking class ..lol..Yes you may have started around 17/18 but now you can do so infront of ur parents without fear of repercussions.
You can have a girlfriend or boyfriend provided they pass the appraisal of everyone else in your family.
You can drive the car at any hour provided you refill the gas tank.
Nah its not that bad...

I can't really speak for other island countries but in Samoa we have no problem with still living at home with your parents even when we turn 21. Take me for example when I am back home in Samoa I live with my mom and dad. My room since I can recall from childhood is still mine. It has been occupied over the years but when I am back home that room reverts back to me. But that's just my sorry ass no house of my own no piece of property just waiting in vain to win the Lotto,American Sweepstakes etc etc...

I can't remember what exactly I did for my birthday...no it has nothing to do with how old I am now..and everything with how wasted I was then. Though the details are kinda hazy I believe I had a really great time.

I hope Quito has a smashing time we will try our best to usher you gently into this new and exciting time of your life after all youre only 21 once and what is the point of being given a key if you don't try to open at least one door.
TANJOBI NO OMEDETOU GOZAIMASU!!

Update: from the fotos you can see that we had a lovely time. The cake was awesome real big compared to the usual Japanese Bithday Cakes awfully yummy too. Lisa got her KFC but poor girl had to rush off for her presentation. Azahar came around with a gift as well. Well there is still Friday at Fellowship as well as Saturday but there could be karaoke tonite as well but as the weather is so bad me and baby will have to sit this one out. Anyways Cheers Quito..

Quito which is more yummy the cake or the company..ahh maybe both har har..God Bless you Bountifully dear.

When Joy Turns into Heartbreak

2006-05-09T17:11:00.000+09:00

What should've been one of the most memorable times of their lives has turned into a tragedy for one couple in Samoa. (You can read up on it on Ninny's blog. ) Death is a natural part of life, it comes to us all but it hits the hardest and felt the most when the life of a child is taken away. How much more painful is it then, when that child is but a newborn baby? The so called "gift" the very miracle of life personified.
What kind of comfort can one give a mother who has just been thru nine months of hoping and praying for a healthy baby only to be told by the doctor that it didn't make it.

Who can soothe the heart that used to skip a beat each time she felt her baby kick?

Who can satisfy the answer to the question that she has spent many a day and night pondering who her baby would look like now that the child is gone?

What words of wisdom can you impart to a shattered soul who has to endure the sound of crying in the ward, knowing that none of those voices belongs to her child as her baby is silent forever?

What kind of assurance can you give a mother who will leave the hospital empty handed when just a few days before the world held so much promise and life?

We can only imagine the many things she may have wanted to say.. to do.. to teach this child..expectations n hopes for the future only to have death rob her of that chance.
We only need to close our eyes to picture her initial reaction, the joy of discovering she is with child...to imagine her n husband choosing and debating over a name, picking out clothes, baby proofing the house etc etc...
I can feel my emotions well up in my throat as my eyes begin to tear up..its heartbreaking..its unbearable and I can only pray that the Lord will spare me from such pain.

Questions mount... only to be answered by more questions?
Were doctors not able to detect any irregularities during her check ups?
Do we have ample facilities that can pick up such abnormalities?
Do our hospitals have the necessary capability to handle such situations?
Do we have grief counselors on hand to cater to the needs of the families?
Are there pastors/priests on call?

In times such as these... pain is mixed with anger leading to people point fingers making assumptions about what could have been done to prevent such a tragedy but despite all good intentions/suggestions no one can fully explain to this poor mother....

Why her child is not nursing at her breast while resting comfortably in the crook of arm..

Why the baby clothes and supplies will have to be put away.

Why people will now tread softly around her doing their best not to bring up the subject of her deceased child.

Why her tears come unbidden at the sight of other mothers with their children.

Then we have the grandmother who accidentally suffocated her grandchild by sleeping on the 5th month old baby.

How horrible her grief must be knowing that she is responsible for the death of her own flesh and blood.

How can one explain aways ones guilt covered in remorse.
How they must wish they could re live that day and change the outcome.

Death is harsh, it is cruel and painful especially when the circumstances are unfortunate.

We all shed tears and feel deep sorrow when we lose dear ones but when they die from old age or a prolonged illness though there is no easy way to endure the pain, we take some comfort in the knowledge that they had their shot at life, and that we were able to say our good byes and store for ourselves enough memories to last a lifetime.. but when they are suddenly taken away through tragic circumstances we feel cheated of our time with them.

We feel angry but don't really know who to direct it at.
We are frustrated but are unsure of how to release it.
We are heartbroken but don't know if we will fully recover.
All we are sure of is that life will never again be the same.

There is always a lesson to be learned in such tragic circumstances: It is a wake up call for us to appreciate every moment we have with our children and loved ones as they can be taken from us or us from them. So let us love as if today is our last and be thankful for the time given to spend with the people who give meaning to our lives.

I don't claim to have a formula to ease one's pain but I believe that a heartfelt prayer goes a long long way. So I am sending out one to all who have lost a loved one especially a child.
The Bible has many comforting insights into death but for those whose pain is too raw to absorb it I hope that the following quotes can bring you some measure of peace.

"Friendship improves happiness and abates misery, by the doubling of our joy and the dividing of our grief."
Marcus Tullius Cicero quotes

**************************
Surviving the loss of a loved one is its own kind of test.
To tell our story is a way of affirming the life of the loved one we have lost--
the experiences we had together,
The favorite family stories.
To tell the story is a way of moving the grief along,
and so contributes to our own healing.
Martha Whitmore Hickman

*********************

"Death of a loved one is the most severe test that you will ever face, and if you can rise above your grief and if you will trust in God, then you will be able to surmount any other difficulty with which you may be faced."Harold B. Lee

*********************
People in mourning have to come to grips
with death before they can live again.
Mourning can go on for years and years.
It doesn't end after a year: That's a false
fantasy. It usually ends when people
realize that they can live again, that they
can concentrate their energies on their
lives as a whole, and not on their hurt,
and guilt, and pain.
by: Elisabeth Kubler-Ross, On Death and Dying

***************

Grief has a quality of healing in it that is very deep because we are forced to a depth of emotion that is usually below the threshold of our awareness
by: Stephen Levine

***************
After I sign off I will give my daughter a great big hug, hold her close till I can hear her tiny heart beat in motion with mine. I will shower her with kisses and hold her for as long as I can.

May God in all his mercy and grace grant you peace, love and happiness.

Mother's Day.

2006-05-03T18:07:00.000+09:00

It's holidays such as these that makes me long for home. Sure enough Mother's Day is celebrated in most parts of the world but I mean what other country acknowledges the contribution of women and celebrates their importance by giving them a "national holiday." Yes, we Hamos love holidays n we would celebrate anything (well almost) to get the day off *jokes* But really, after a massive calorie overload on Sunday having the next day off is not only great but appreciated.
But what do mother's really want?
Women are not the same (gentlemen please take note!) while some will settle for ... "here u go!" 0r flowers or a dinner out with the family
Others need something a little more extravagant... a diamond necklace, perhaps a gold bracelet, a pearl the size of an egg, paid overseas vacation..Gucci or Louis Vutton handbag or a Vera Wang gown ..umm in Samoa hello, maybe not..
But there is a whole cross section of women/mothers that don't get to enjoy this particular holiday set up in their honor. There are those who'd rather have a day off from the kitchen and the usual routine of household chores , who'd give anything for an uninterupted 8 hours of sleep, who'd take a gas stove or microwave over chocolates and roses any day. Who'd appreciate a kind word from her husband and kisses from her children over expensive perfume and jewelry.
There is a lot to be said about Mothers. There is also a lot left unsaid but this coming Mother's Day I think I'm finally gonna let it out . Now that I am a mom myself I know I'd appreciate it and after what I had put my poor mama thru as a teenager and the many years after that she deserves to hear it..."That she is the best, that I love her and that I am so glad that she is my mom and that I am so blessed to have someone like her in my life. " I don't think we let our mommy's know enough times how much they are appreciated, we take for granted that they know. I hope that this coming Mothers Day we can all be like the brave wonderful women who gave us life and let them know how grateful we for their contribution in not only our genetic make up but the people we have become.
"Power and Happiness to all Women especially Mothers All Over the World"

"Mom from the bottom of my heart Thank You and ...
To all you new and seasoned mothers, expecting mom's,grandmothers, great grandma's, aunts, at home mommy's, career mothers whichever category you fall in. From me to ya'll.

FLASH BACK!

2006-05-01T20:07:00.000+09:00

I have read many forwards, friends keep sending me about the kind of person you are or likely to become because of the month you were born in. Things like personality traits, moods, likes n dislikes etc... I 've taken some quizzes, mini tests just for fun and the final analysis is just hilarious. The descriptions can fit anyone born in any month so I don't put any stakes in that stuff and you shouldn't either.

I know that my character has been built up over the years :
- via interactions with the physical environment
- colored by the social norms of my culture
- influenced by the values of my parents
- developed by my western/eastern education
- guided by the morals in the Good Book
- enhanced thru different relationships and associations
- toughened up by certain life experiences
-and flavored by my own personal tastes and preferences.
Howz dat for an analysis?
Being born in May has nothing to do with the wild streak I obtained in being the youngest of 9 children. I mean I could have been born in any month and still be a wacko I have been thru many skirmishes as a youngster gotten into all sorts of trouble (not the illegal type) that one can not simply jot them down as to being born in a particular month of the year. May is a fabulous month that's a given but it is, in no way responsible for how I feel, my actions, behavior...what I was... definately what I am or might be. I have both an adopted brother and sister and the two are younger than me but they came much later in life so most of the time I had to invent scenarios for myself and escape into my own world to have fun. And fun I had.

Example:
When I was about 11 or 12 I used to love staying behind at school so I could continue playing on the swings. My sister who is before me is 9 years older than I am so I couldn't hang out with my older siblings as I'd just be in the way. So I learned to create adventures for myself. Home was only ten minutes away from school so I could play for as long as I wanted there but after a few swipes of the salulima (broom) I figured it wasn't worth it, fortunately there was always the Seventh Day Adventist playground across the street to be explored.
So on Saturdays when the church members had gone home, the compound virtually empty. I would run across and swing away till my little heart was content. But after a while I got tired of the monotonous routine (being on the see-saw by urself can get a little tedious har har) and started to explore the grounds. It was during this time that I came across a swimming pool. I was quite small then so the pool looked quite big but very fetching. As the pool was surrounded by a well kept hedge I wondered why no one used it. It was a hot day and after all that swinging I was drenched so I took off my shirt..had a quick look around and then jumped in. I don't remember how long I had been in there till I was woken out of my reverie by a loud scream " hey kid!... you get out..get out.. what do u think ur doing?"

Confused (couldn't figure out what was so dreadful abt using the pool) and quite scared I scrambled out, grabbed my tshirt and ran. It's not as if he was gonna give me candy or anything he said he was gonna get me so I scrammed. I was small and lithe back then and very quick on my feet so I was gone in a flash leavin' the huffin' n puffin' caretaker to eat my dust. Unfortunately from the compound you can see the main road and though the man could not catch me he could see where I was running to.

Soaking wet, water dripping everywhere I ran and hid underneath the stairs leading up to the second storey of our house. After a few minutes though still panting I could hear our dogs bark as a man's voice called out "Anyone home" Anyone home!"
My mom who was in the kitchen making supper came and opened the door. She politely asked the man if she could offer him some assistance. The man proceeded to tell her that he was looking for a young boy who was swimming... * shame* * in the church's Baptismal pool. (YIKES!!) and he saw him run into our gate. My mom as I had mentioned earlier was in the kitchen so she did not see me speed by. She then informed the man that though she has sons her boyz were all grown up. The man probably looked around and realized that anyone could run through our land down the river and cross to the other side and the woman speaking to him had no reason to lie and sounded sincere. So he apologized for the intrusion and left.

I think the man had just disappeared from view when my mom realized just who the mysterious boy was. And then with a voice that could have easily brought the man running back she called out my name. I knew I had it coming, more of that wonderful Samoan discipline that starts with the broom and can end with the belt if you make more noise than thought necessary or didn't look remorseful enough.
As if on cue I got my hiding from my mom but what was worse was re-living that embarrasing INCIDENT each time one of my siblings arrived home. My mom wasn't thru punishing me she relished the look of utter shame on my face each time she reiterated what the man said. If that wasn't enough I was also beating myself up for my bad.
Baptismal pool...swimming pool... baptismal pool... thought I'd never live that one down.

Luckily I wasn't scarred for life. But I am so much older than 11 I have learned to take it on the chin. You know what they say "what doesn't kill u will only make u stronger ** gulp!*" Well we all have our little secrets right? some are intimate, some heartbreaking, others downright embarrasing and then there are those you can let out after a kazillion years..lol...
PS/ I have been back once to that pool and now after so many years later it looks so small I can't believe I mistook it for a normal swimming pool. (But what the hey..I was just a kid and it was not as if every home in Samoa had a pool in the backyard..... shhhhhhhhh PUGI!)

Golden Week in Japan.

2006-05-01T19:15:00.000+09:00

Golden Week starts Wednesday 3rd May I think. I am not entirely sure coz I am not really interested**why?** because when I first came to Ritsumeikan APU in 2003 I heard that they used to have a week off in May in celebration of Golden Week. Just my luck they no longer had the week off it was business as usual.. classes and all. Most Japanese people, local govt's and companies celebrate this holiday. I don't really know the history behind it maybe I will read up on it.

Ata and her friend Bessie are supposed to drop by tomorrow on their way down to Saga to meet the others but I tell ya you don't want to be on the road tomorrow afternoon, or on the buses or even at the airport. The Japanese love to take advantage of any holiday that comes their way. Flights fully booked, restraunt seatings a mile long, amusement parks packed, movies shows all sold out, bodies on the beach you name it. It can get really crazy out there. As for me my interest extends only to the weekend hanabi (fireworks) My golden week will be a quiet one not that I ever go anywhere during this time but because I have loads to do. I will just settle in and get them done but for all of you who will be travellin'..don't forget to drink a large dose from that medicine bottle called "Patience" before you head out the door.. you may just need it!

... "HAPPY GOLDEN WEEK YA'LL!" ...

Fun Packed Weekend.

2006-04-30T21:25:00.000+09:00

As weekends go this one was quite fun..well we try to make every weekend fun but this was one of those special ones that you tuck away in ur memory vault and bring it out when occassion warrants it. Friday 28th we finally got our stipends for the month. (Mombusho has not been holding out on us I guess they just wanted to have all of us new/old students receive it at the same time***raised eyebrow.) It has been a long dry spell (we received our last one 22nd March) but luckily we have been quite good at stretching the odd buck.

Elsa and Lynette sharing a Kodack Moment

So of course after all the expenses were sorted out ( a few adjustments had to be made as the monthly allowance has decreased from 175,000 yen to a 172,000)we concentrated on our preparations for "The Freshmen Party".

: Mental note it was 180,000 yen when I arrived in the Spring of 2003, by the fall semester of the same year they informed us it was going to be decreased to a 175,000 and now it has dropped again huummm!!..) As mentioned in an earlier entry every Friday night my family and I attend this Bible Study at the Kamegawa Kuominkan. A Professor from the Philippines Dr Francisco Fellizar and his wife Dr Nectarinia have become our surrogate parents, helping us not only with our spiritual growth but also love and guidance as we go through our studies.

Elsa and Erlika from Indonesia goofin' around.

At the begining of every academic year we try to host a little welcome party for the new students. To let them know that there is a support group willing to help those who are homesick. Those who are open to a new outlook on life, willing to make new friends and be part of a bigger family.

Also its a contact base for those who are already Christians who want to find a church they can go to here in Beppu. We had one last year and the turn out was really good but this time was even better.It was great that many who were interested in learning about the Bible and Christianity were able to make it though the scrumptious dinner was also a great pull factor (We Samoans are not the only ones who know how to work a free dinner invitation..lol!)

Elsa with sis Martina (Tonga) & Parcillah (Kenya)

The music was great, worship time was outta this world and as I have said before.. diner was fantabulous (oggay just made that one up)We got to meet many of the first year students, Elsa made her rounds and coveted alot of goodies from here and there and I just praised the Lord for a wonderful gathering.

We sang "Happy Birthday" for Erlyn who turned 21 the day before. Tim from Oita entertained us with his version of Stand by Me.
Jenny and Ata put on a special number, P.Town reprezent!!!The Jenny and Linny combination worked its magic again, Jinggo and the boyz were awesome and we all had a really good time.
Praise the Lord.
Saturday morning: 29th April

- Malolo cleaned our house mi n my lazy a** wuz still sleepin'
- Jenny and Tu'u went to judge some English Speech Competition for Kumon
- Lisa was supposed to have her class with her student.
- Ata picked up Felise and Shiori and we all headed down to our next favourite place..Karaoke @ UtaUdo.
- Maro, Felise n Ata played pool.
- Shiori, Elsa n I went to the karaoke room and did our thang..
- Ata, and her other ALT friends Nikki and Kevin joined us for the last hour.
- We all went to Oita-City to Don Quixote's ooh lalalala..This place has all 'em goodies that we miss like Real MnM's, Doritos, Honey Roasted Peanuts, Tim Tams etc..

Came home and the kids had their party next door.
Jen picked up Ron and Michael,
Kilika and Tina who were in Oita also joined.
Mitch was studying so he could not make it. Goodo boyo!!
Elsa n I watched "Old School" by the Laughing Samoans. Tofinga is really funny..
Malolo joined the party and as usual brought along his weird sense of humor..

Sunday morning 30th April :
6:30 am did my dishes went back to sleep and missed out on church dang.. my bad.
1:00 morning (note the sarcasm hehehe) finally arrived
2:00 pm Ata and Malolo went shopping came back and fixed ludin (lunch/dinner)I think were gonna need to update the new Windows Thesaurus har har...
Tin Tin and Ata made salad, Malolo made us fried chicken and soup. I called Koizumi and sent down juice n ice cream (jokes)
Felise n Shiori came around 4:00pm still plenty of food to go around.
We spent most of the day eating..eatiiiing and eeaaaaaating..
So what constitutes a great weekend : for me.. its great food, great fun..great company.. and an excellent line up of tv shows har har.
Hope yours was just as eventful. Laterzzz

The Month of May.

2006-04-28T00:32:00.000+09:00

The upcoming month is a very special one for me, given that almost half of my family, some of my dear friends as well as myself was born around that time of year.
Oh..oh and I almost forgot "MOTHER'S DAY!" ..yipeee aay yay

Anyways on with the list :
May 2 : Viliami Uasike Latu
May 3 : my cousin Siline Halanetau Tofilau's baby girl Rebecca. 3yrs old
May 9 : my baby sister Natasha Puao Esera Lutu 27.
May 10 : Debarjo(Dave)22, Martina Navratilova Fungavai (Tonga) 21
May 11 : cousin Mua Halanetau Setu's eldest daughter Virieta, 21
May 12 : cousin Mua's youngest son Alesana , brother Indra Singawinata from Indonesia
May 13 : brother Semisi.
May 17 : Queen Tupe ruler of the Lolesaiga Realm.
May 18 : big sister Puaina Pfeiffer
May 19 : niece Eleline.
May 20 : nephew Hans Lafi.
May 21 : niece Elenoa Gloria.
May 26 : Icha from Indonesia.
May 23 : Aunty Vii Alesana Halanetau.
May 29 : my husband Malolo Aumua.
May 30 : brother Alesana.

For all of you May'ans here's a Birthday Thought from me to You:
My apologies to anyone I may have left out. One thing we have to enjoy about getting older is the fact that you are fast approaching the time you will lose your hair, teeth, hearing, eye sight, good looks and memory..

Funny how we ask God to give us good heath and keep us safe and then complain about getting older. It's like we want to continue living we just don't want to grow old or older in my case hee..hee.. But anyways this month apart from the birthdays I am in charge of leading our Friday Family Fellowship. I was introduced to it by my niece Line and Edna back during Christmas of 2003 and I have been attending ever since. It has become a very important part of my life and it is a real joy being with everyone worshiping and praising God. In many ways it has helped me with my spiritual growth as well the many personal changes I was going through. I also will be extremely busy as I only have May and June to finish up all my other papers hopefully get the green light from my supervisor to go home. If not then it will be a working summer for me to wrap up everything. I procrastinate too much. This bad habit will one day come back n bite me on da u know what. So I have to kick it and soon. So people if I am not around for sometime I am trying to tie up all 'em loose ends but you know since I am now addicted to blogging there's no tellin' when I will pop up again. Till then fellow bloggers. Keep on bloggin' away...

Student Life:

2006-04-25T23:40:00.000+09:00

There are many positive aspects of student life, first of all nobody really expects you to help out with the big family faalavelave's (family crises) back home. Nobody expects you to send money home regimently and even better nobody questions where your money goes.

So where did my go?
I remember when I was an undergrad student in Australia. Townsville, Queensland to be exact,... yep home of the lame North Queensland Cowboys ( maybe they are better by now I don't know) anyways on with the story we would get like $640.00AUD a fortnight and that back then was pretty big (it was helluva lot more than what some degree holders were making back home in Samoa)

Still for the life of me, I can not recall where my money went. I did not smoke (still don't), stopped drinking (when most normal people perhaps just started), wasn't into drugs (couldn't afford them *jokes*) so, it was a toss up between the movies, renting out videos & playstation games, food, soda's, maccas, KFC, new books, shoes, CD's and phone..phone and more phone bills.
My flatmate at the time Miss Tine Faasili (now married to Ben from the Cook Islands) and I would survive on cereal for a couple of days till we get our money. We receive our stipends every second Friday and usually it is in the bank by 12:00 midnight. Sometimes Tine and I would walk to Maccas around 11:30 pm by the time we reach the ATM our money would be in and we would gleefully take some out and walk straight into McD's for a yummy cheese burger. (By this time you could almost hear my tummy grumble out a Thank You)

Well after that, I figured the next time (If I would be so fortunate to procure another scholarship) I would be able to budget my money as I'd be older, hopefully wiser (ummm..not..) uh huh wishful thinking.. My first year here in Japan that would be 2003, three times I found myself living on coins and scrounging for every bit of food I could find in my cupboard. Nydia, Koyu and I would empty our piggy banks together and count all we could find and figure out what we could buy that would last us till our allowance comes in. We'd empty all our drawers, check all the pockets in our pants, jackets, tshirts.
One time Nydia found one can of pisupo (corned beef) on top of her shelf n that made our day. We also scavenged from the cupboards of our other mates and set up a "Save Nydia, Koyu & Tupe Fund." (that was so hilarious) One time we divested Mitch of all his meat, potatoes, rice anything edible we could find. We learned to live on small morsels of food without complaining. We figured out how to make a meal from scratch. Learned to go without soda,smokes,chips n chocolates for almost a week and refrained from making overseas phone calls.All the while not losing a single pound which was quite baffling!! We had gotten so good at living on almost nothing we could have gone on the Survivor Show and wiped the floor clean with all 'em contestants.
Now it is a little better, still not making any savings but we are comfortable. My husband has baito (part time work) which has really helped. He has offered to pay for mine and baby's airfares home when the time comes so we are thankful. I use my stipend to pay for our bills and food and other stuff.

Student life is as exciting as it is a struggle financially and otherwise. I just hope that it pays off and that I will be able to find a good job that can provide for the needs of my family. I am eagerly awaiting the day I am able to spare that one cent which I will happily deposit into my starving savings account. But until then I will gladly live on rice and soy sauce should I ever get into another financial jam again..lol..if not I can always turn in these two and claim my reward. (Jokes)

Well folks should you, want to rid yourself of any extra cash my postal account is ready and waiting ha!ha!

Easter Concert 2006.

2006-04-24T17:02:00.000+09:00

*Please ignore the dates on the photos somebody forgot to set their digicam..yikes.
*
Last Saturday 26th April there was a small concert at the Beppu Dendosho/Beppu Baptist Church the one we go to on Sunday. Though it had been raining for most of the day the turn out was quite good. Our pastor Yoshida Sensei and his wife Mari are both very good vocalists and they decided to put on an Easter Concert continuing from the one Mark Fellizar inititated in 2004.

Mark is the eldest son of Professor Francisco Fellizar and Dr Nectarinia of the Philippines. He graduated just this March, from Siliman Seminary College and is now a full fletched pastor. When he was a seminary student he did his internship here in Japan at our church with another Japanese student Mikami Azusa. In his time he put on a concert, had the entire service translated into english and set up on the projector for the benefit of us foreigners and started up an International Fellowship on Saturdays. Thanks to him we have more fun activities at church.
My husband was in the first concert and they asked him again to participate in the second one. He asked to be excused as his baito would leave him with almost no chance to attend rehersal. Maro has part time work from Mon- Friday 6pm to 1 am but because the place is in Oita they have to be picked off at around 4:30 as it is a one hr 30 minutes drive. In the end he had to do as it was for the Lord and so he had to make time.

Jinggo, Malolo & Sho after the Concert!

Malolo trying to reconcile fact that he's singing in a church not a nightclub!

The concert was only an hour and a half ..short n sweet. Lynette Fellizar who is also a medical doctor like her mom & here on vacation sang with her younger brother Jinggo who is the lead guitarist. Pastor sang a duet with his wife a lovely number called the "Purple Robe". Maro sang "I'm Trading My Sorrows" with brother Kaitu'u Funaki from Tonga plus a couple of other songs. It had a very intimate feel to it and a nice way to introduce our Japanese friends who are non Christians to da faith. For some the Bible is a bit too heavy and scares them away. But songs are a much gentler way to spread the good news without ramming it down people's throats.

It was a good day and most of the people who came some as far as Hiji, Nakatsu & Oita City enjoyed themselves. They wished that the program was longer and also in a bigger venue. But I think its good to start small who knows BCON Plaza may be the next place to in da near future but for now it was good enough.
Eryln Carmellia a very special young lady from Indonesia who is a fourth year student looking to graduate March 2007, played the piano, Sho from Okinawa was the drummer and Yoshida sensei was on bass. Lynette, Mari and Maro provided the lead vocals and Funaki was the MC. God was at the helm and the rest of us were along for the ride.

Gorgeous Lynette with sisters Icha and Erlyn out in the foyer after the concert.

Well we can't all be on centerstage (quite liked the movie with the same title) someone has to be in the cheering section. To be honest I purposely refrained from singing as I did not want to upstage anyone (jokes) My singing prowess goes as far as the rooms at karaoke. In there I am free to sing to my hearts content without causing irreparable damage to anyone's ears..but I am happy that at least one member of my nuclear family can sing in tune ha!ha!
Overall it was a wonderful day.
We enjoyed ourselves tremendoulsy and we pray that God was glorified through the praise and worship. And that his righteous name was magnified through the voices and talents of his children.

Globe trotting without even leaving home:

2006-04-18T22:23:00.000+09:00

Was going through some of our old albums today and just realized that Kolinyedcia is one blessed kid. Of course having a Queen for a mother is a great honor for a child of 2... I mean a Trust Fund, guest spot on Oprah, immediate propulsion to fame n fortune, the opportunity to rub shoulders with the other high rollers, vacations in da Carribean heck its not a bad legacy to inherit.

Ok I'm gonna count back from 10 and when you wake up you will remember everything and ball your eyes out har har har ... Back to reality now

But anyways seriously Nyedcia's childhood is quite an interesting one..whether she will think so when she grows up is another matter!*!.. and another blog entry all together choo hoo.. but for starters though there are other Samoan children born here in Japan the number is quite small in comparison to places such as New Zealand, Australia and the United States. As for Europe,South America, Africa the Middle East & Antartica if there are children there in particular males between the ages of 3 - 5 born to Samoan parents give me a holler and I'll set u up on a date with my girl 19 years from now lol..
Anyways, granted that many Samoans have migrated to other parts of the world and have set up families there I am sure that not many have had children who've grown up in an International University. Like literally.. and have had the chance to see and meet students from different countries. Elsa may not be able to visit most of these places in her lifetime but she can at least say she has met someone from that country.

Elsa with her beautiful aunty Chica Singawinata of Indonesia.

Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University is quite unique for a private Institute especially here in Japan there are about 40 or more countries being represented and the number is most likely to increase.

Elsa has probably met most of the International students, has had a picture taken with them or have a picture of her in their (keitais)mobile or cell phones. So in a virtual sense, Elsa has already started her globe troting adventure without ever leaving the country and even before she could spell and write her name.

Nyedcia has been going up to APU since she was about 2 or 3 months old. School was out for the winter break but there were still a few souls around. We did not have internet at home then so whenever we needed to check emails or felt the need to chat we'd go up to school and use the free facilities. We also downloaded music and movies but that is for a later entry heheh...

Elsa with Azahar bin Shaik of Malaysia

When school started again for Spring Semester 2004 Elsa attended class with me. She was such a good baby (Bring back da good ole days**! puhleaassee...) she would drink her milk and then go to sleep and I was free to concentrate on my class.

My classmates would fuss over her and of course I had plenty of volunteer babysitters to choose from. I even had students who I didn't know offer to look after her. Thank goodness the reach of those who sell babies on the black market and their operatives does not extend to our area otherwise my poor baby would have been a real easy target. (Show Elsa food n she'll follow u home.) Anyways I always made sure that if I were to leave her with people It would be those I trusted and knew well so it was either with my girls Line, Lisa, Edna or Koyu or our other close friends Khila,Choogi, Sue and Medusha.

When Elsa took her first steps, had her first tooth the kids were just as excited as I was, they fawned over her and imitated her goo goos and gagas.. Others swore she said their name or some word in some language. Elsa became a fixture at school she was like the APU mascot, many came to know her, befriend her and learned her name as for me I was relegated to the back seat and had to be content with the title of "Elsa's mom" so much for the Queen portfolio.

Elsa with NanaKing Emmanuel Mc Lord Answar of Ghana...

Out of courtesy for my fellow classmates and lecturer I asked their permission first before bringing Elsa into the classroom. It was a unanimous yes an agreement poor Professor Eades probably regretted but could not rescind. Elsa was no longer a baby but a crawling nightmare she wasn't a noisy child but her presence was distracting.

Poor Prof Eades had to compete with Elsa for the students attention as well as checking her whereabouts each time before going back to his desk or when getting up to use the whiteboard. Elsa was like the Energizer bunny surveying the layout of the land, darting here and there eliciting squeals of delight and fright from whomever's legs she happend to pop out from underneath (tsk tsk naughty child... a bad habit she procured from her old man har har...)
Elsa loved every bit of attention she got. I hope however this experience will not turn her into an attention seeking psycho in da future. It is very possible that she may later develop symptoms of ADD: Attention Deficiency Disorder coz we will eventually go home to Samoa where she will discover much to her dismay that she is not the center of the Universe..lol. It will be a major adjusment for her as we have about 20 other grandchildren around da house but then again she's a Hamo kid and they are built sturdy and strong. And after getting her little tush swiped by the broom once or twice she will forget her regal bearings in a flash..lol.

Niece Line (Elle) with our Bleached Samoan Kylie Frances Pearce of Australia & Elsa

Anyways perhaps the only other thing that Elsa loves more than being fussed over is the goodies the students bring her. The would rummage through their bags for various stuff (food/ toys etc) and Elsa would sit on her legs the way the Japanese do and drool..Yep..yep she'd let loose the flood gates and let 'em have it... and the dogs back home think they have the begging act down to a T. Elsa can do it with her eyes closed.

At present Elsa can not string a proper sentence together..she speaks more Japanese and English while words in my mother tongue come out sounding like Paris Hilton on a bad hair day.. but it's something hopefully a trip home one day will change. Elsa has grown up listening to many different languages Bahasa Indonesian, Malay, Filipino, Russian etc and is a little confused.. ok maybe very confused but it's not a serious nor permanent handicap (I hope gulp ..gulp..)just a time delayed reaction.
I am not too worried about her speaking abilities though infact I am enjoying this temporary peace n quiet as I know it won't last. People are usually born with their eyes closed and mouths open.. they spend the rest of their lives trying to reverse that mistake of nature har har...
When my husband finally joined us October 2004 Elsa was almost 1 year old. She was made to stay home so she could bond with her dad. My husband also wanted to make up for loss time with his daughter. I on the other hand had to adjust to the new changes namely:

1- A lighter backbag, no more pampers and baby wipes falling out whenever I have to take my books out.
2- No more early morning rush to fix baby formula n packed lunched. Pick out clothes.
3- No more huffing and puffing up to the bus stop with a little person in toe.
4- No more looking around in class to see whose bag Elsa was rummaging through now.
5- No more checking to see if she is hungry, thirsty, wants a nap or has dropped one of 'em precious cargos etc
But despite all that new found freedom:
- I realized that out of habit I would look to my side to catch a glimpse of my baby.
- That my arms felt empty and I wished she was sleeping like before snuggling against me
- That part of my interest in the lectures was becoz my daughter was there to share it with me.
- Instead of taking my time up at school before after class so that Elsa's mates could spend some time with her I found myself practically running for the bus.
I couldn't wait to get home so I could see my angel. This was the first time that we were separated apart from the first two weeks of her life that was spent at Oita Children's Hospital due to delivery complications.
It was that moment that I could understand exactly what every mother goes through when they are not with their children; whether it is because of work, or any other reason.. The emptiness, the longing, it's hard real hard but when you are about to see them again I tell you there is no feeling like going home to your child/children...

KEEPERS + SPECIAL FRIENDS =FAMILY FOREVER.

2006-04-17T20:14:00.000+09:00

I remember coming across a beautiful article that talks about people who come into our lives.. How some will stay a while and others only for a fleeting moment. It speaks of those whose memories linger on despite our brief contact but it also makes mention of those who we will cherish our whole lives through. I have met many keepers through the course of my life but since I'm in Japan I will place the emphasis on those who I am so blessed to have crossed paths and hearts here in Nipponland. I will start off with the Samoan crew perhaps in my next visit I will touch on those from other Islands in the Pacific like Palau, Papua New Guinea, Hawaii & Tonga.

It's funny that I had to come here to Japan to meet such wonderful souls like Patricia Margot Florance Netzler, Edna Serena Temese, Felise Paulo Saigo Vaa, Wesley Simamao, Nara Palepa Tupai, Miyuki Suzuki and my dearest Nydia Silipa Aloaina. (There is still sis Taema and husband Dean down in Okinawa, sister Sofia Silipa up in Nigata, brother Fiame Leo and lovely wife Faleolo up in Hokkaido,bros Ben Patu & Mauiliu in Tokyo but I will get to them somehow...) I am so proud that our tiny little island is being well represented by fiesty and determined students. My life has been enriched by their presence and I am a better person because of it.
You may ask so what's funny about that?..Well it's the fact that we all come from the same small island country of Samoa yet prior to my arrival at APU I had never met or seen any of them before. Samoa's population is only around 175,000 and there is only one major town which is also the capital and its quite small. The chances of us bumping into each other there is much more than the possibility of us meeting up in a far away country such as Japan but as it turned out destiny was in favor of the odds. I guess I was meant to meet them and being far away from home made it even more special. God's perfect timimg. I consider it one of the greatest blessings of my life.
Aside from my uni mates who I count as family I met another beautiful soul whose smile and soft disposition I will always remember.. The lovely and Unforgetable Miss Jenny Taotua aka JRO. I guess this blog spot I dedicate to Jen Jen who is like my very own niece well we are all God's children and to me that relationship is a bond that is everlasting. Through Jenny I got to meet other special friends the beautiful Loma Berge our half caste Fijian sister and Aleta Auckland/Saoluafata and his lovely partner Ana Polamalu of Auckland/Laulii and not forgetting Brenna and our brother Faafetai Feliuai down there in Kyuragi-Karatsu.

There is a lot that can be said about our Jen Jen but that will require more than one person writing in her little blog. She is family oriented, a fabulous friend, she can play guitar, piano, drums probably every instrument created. And she sings like an angel granted I have never heard one sing before but I believe that Jen Jen comes pretty close to it. I know that if she were to read this she would probably cringe n say "please aunty take it off".. but that's the great thing about this blog its my own little space and I can praise or diss anyone to my hearts content and there aint nuttin' anyone can do about it neh neh neh neh...Oh I can be so childish at times but I absolutely luv it... I rub it a rot.!!

But in all honesty once you get to know Jenny you will be so taken in with her sweet personality, warm mannerism and gentle heart that :
...If you are a girl you'd want her for a sister...
...If you are a guy you'd wanna ask for her hand in marriage...
...If you are in between you'd want her for a friend as she can lead you to da light
...If you are a mother you'd wish your son would bring home someone like her
...If you are a father you'd wish your own kids had that much sense and talent.
...If you are a friend you'd count your blessings and appreciate what she brings to the relationship.
... If you are a record producer you would sign her up immediately as this girl can bring it.
... If you are a photographer you'd grab ur gear and put urself on da map...
...If you are in trouble she'll have ur back...

But if you were her aunty like me you would squeezee n squeeeeeeeeeze her and tell her how much you love her.That you pray God Almighty will continue to guide n protect her and pour out his eternal blessing upon her.

I believe that wherever Jenny goes the grace of God will always be with her. She is a young Christian lady who has had her share of pain and heartache. Yet she continues to be steadfast in her trust and love for the Lord. She is the middle child of three children and only girl. Has battled many odds in her young life but her determined spirit and un wavering faith has brought her far and most surely will bring her much success,love and happiness in the future.

Jenny lost her baby brother Vinnie some years back and though we all know he is in a far better place the void he has left in her life is extrmely deep and still raw. I know that his absence is felt even more when the anniversary of his death rolls around as well as other special holidays but Jenny girl, your brother lives on everytime you sing his favorite songs. You make him proud each time you get up and lead whether its at Fellowship or Sunday service. As long as you remember him in your heart you keep his spirit and his memory alive.

Jenny with her lovely young cousin James Fa'aatuatu and our gorgeous Loma chan

Jenny will always be one of those significant people in my life. No matter what happens in the future whether our paths will cross again or not I will always look back at my time here in Japan and recall that most of my fondest memories have Jen Jen in them. I know in my heart I will see Jenny again whether its back here in Japan for her graduate studies or somewhere else for her wedding har har.. I know the Lord will make a way.. But until then, I tip my hat to one of God's beautiful roses.

I love you Jensifer. God Bless

My Best Friend + Soul Mate = Husband!

2006-04-15T08:38:00.000+09:00

Say what you will about husbands/wives/lovers/girl-boyfriends..One thing is for certain, they can love you like mad and drive you beyond crazy..yup yup.. I know what I am talking about. I love my husband to bits.. yep very small bits.. after I have chopped off his limbs, head and third leg choo hoo (JOKES) But seriously no one can get under my skin the way Malolo does. He knows all the right buttons to push, where each is located, maximum damage effect etc and he can literally drive me up the wall you should be able to see the skid marks if you visit our house har!har!
So I have had just about the crappiest Easter of my life. Was able to make it to the dawn service at Rokushoen Koen which was great, but Malolo was really buggin' me so for a minute or two I lost track of the minister's nice sermon. I mentally blocked out the pastor's advice "to forgive others as our Lord had forgiven us" because Maroroch was annoying me like a bad case of chicken pox with no vaccine in sight. But Thank Goodness for the beautiful sunrise (my first in Japan yipeee) which was a wonderful manifestation of God's love. It's radiance melted my cold and un relenting heart so in light of the season I, Tupe the Magnanimous forgave Maroroch the runt for being such an irritating little vermin. har har...
That aside it was such a fabulous day (God never does anything in half measure does he?) We weren't able to make it to our pot luck lunch at the church as I had to go up to the University to print out some papers for my Wednesday meeting. (The campus is really great when it is void of life heh heh) But the good mountain air helped me regain my regal (uh huh) composure.
TRUE God is good all the time and yes all the Time God is Good AMEN!! his grace kept me sane despite the constant urge to drown Malolo in the deepest cesspool I could find hee..hee. But You know I love my husband I can be real hard on him and still he keeps his hands firmly by his side. Yes .. yes a gentleman never lays a hand on a woman especially one that can run her mouth off at a mile a minute (pausing only to throw in a few derogatory remarks that she will regrett later ...Much Much Later har har..)

It's a wonder he still has teeth left from all that grinding I can just imagine the mental picture in Malolo's head ..of me being grounded into fine minced meat, bones n all eww...Mucho information...

Anyways Lisa went up wih me to our cyber lab and I was able to get all the material I needed. Thanks for the company dear. When we returned home Lisa was thinking about going for the 1:30 pm Mass we had already been to the dawn service but hey JC overload is never a bad thing. I on the other hand was just happy to be home again with my little girl despite the piercing dagger looks she was throwing at me when I walked in. (I love you still bebe..)I usually take her to Uni with me but not this time as I had to rush to catch the bus.
So we missed out on all that yummy Korean food we were supposed to have at church but lunch came courtesy of Felise n Shiori who bought Malolo's favorites "Pizza and Ice Cream" It doesn't take much to please Malolo..which is great for budgeting reasons as well as making it real easy to murder his ass..lol... all I have to do is lace his ice cream with cyanide or sprinkle some toxic stuff on his pizza and Voila.. Lights out and pai pai Maroroch. But what kind of woman would do such a thing to her husband? Am I such a woman? Am I capable of such violence and deep seated hatred??
I guess we can never be sure? There is a little of Dr Jekyl Mr Hyde in all of us. Just depends on what can trigger the beast and force it to rear its ugly head. My husband is my best friend I know that I've stepped on his toes n injured his pride too many a time but he still loves me. (breathes a sigh of relief) But its no wonder why?.. who can resist the Toopstar ne? And no its not Toaster.. its da Toopstar..
Malolo can be a little over the top with his weird kuaback sense of humor and boisterous laugh (which can be quite infectious but heavy on mi sensitive ears yeah right!!) but his heart is always in da right place and that is below his belly button har har.. (jokes)

He may not be a Harvard Graduate with a Swiss bank Accoun, driving an Aston Matin and a Luxury Yatch moored in Beepu Marina but he is all man (or at least i hope so, the jerky hand movements, n careless toss of the head has me wondering sometimes ha!ha!)
So our morning did not exactly start out so great but it looks like it will end on a high.. my baby is making us dinner or something (can't really complain as I am just lazing about) and I've just had a really sensational back massage maybe after dinner I will get a tummy rub too... I love my Malolo I am content with my choice.. He is a great dad and a fabulous husband yes, he can definately get my knickers in a twist sometimes but when all is said and done he is my best friend, my partner in crime my main supporter and the love of my life.

My 2 Cents on Samoa's 2006 General Elections :

2006-04-15T07:41:00.000+09:00

I don't know if living outside the country for now has given me a different perspective say If I was still home and had voted in the latest election. Coz it appears to me that nothing has really changed, except for a couple of fresh faces and new allegiances.
Before the actual voting there was much talk of the possibility of a change in government only to have the ruling party win it by a mile. After all the pre-election hype we have the same people in power for another five years and they have been there for the last two decades. Is that bad?...
Have the people of Samoa spoken? Have they truly excercised their democratic rights?
What does it all mean?
I have a number of burning questions that I really wish someone had the answers to.

That is do the Election results reflect;
- That our opposition parties were not strong enough to take on the might of the HRPP?
- That they weren't believable to the people?
- That they were not able to sell themselves to the public?
- That their image suffered because they were busy dissin' the present government but did not provide any viable solutions or paint a rosier picture of life once they take over?
- That the ruling party has indeed been doing a good job and therefore cemented another victory?
- That the people have chosen to go with a safe choice like better the evil they know rather than one they don't know?
- That the HRPP has deeper pockets, wider reach and a more hypnotizing influence?
- That their candidates are more appealing, better liars or much more in tune with the problems of the everyday Samoan?

- That most people just don't care coz in their minds all politicians are the same and that it does not matter who wins as long as no more taxes are being imposed,that the cost of living remains affordable and that law and order still prevails?
I don't know who has the answers...or if anyone can answer them truthfully because everyone is entitled to an opinion and opinions can be colored my many pre existing factors. All I can hope and pray for, is that those in power will not forget the little man who voted him in... But that is a big ask as the elected MP's all have SMS (Selective Memory Syndrome) They only remember you 6 months prior to Election Time. It's a sad fact of life but holds true for most.
What is even sadder is that most voters also suffer from the same condition b'coz they will have forgotten everything else except who has given them the most dollars leading up to the elections and who has promised them a favor after they are selected.
It's a peculiar kind of cat and mouse game the voters and their candidates play. One that even Samoa who only achieved Universal Sufferage in 1991 has learned to play exeptionally well.And the No campaigning Policy well that just goes into the boot of the car along with the boxes of corn beef, tin fish, mutton flaps and what not.
The only thing that is sadder than the previous 2 is the heartache suffered by candidates (and their families) who are naive enough to think that voters would select someone who would work for peanuts if only to have the chance to represent them and their interests. They go to bat with all they have, only to discover when the results come out that they've been duped, lied to and then cast aside by the very same people who looked them in the eye and pledged them their support. (If you could turn this into a Reality Show it would knock off American Idol, Temptation Island and Survivor off the podium :It has all the ingredients for a successful show - the drama, the tears, the disbelief, the anger, the repercussions. TAKE 5... Action..!!)
Politics : the science of feigning humility till you are elevated to the top. Then you can kick everybody else in the teeth and play hop scotch over their heads because you can.
It is the art of posing as a servant till power oozes from your fingertips and you can zap everybody else with bolts of envy n malice. Suffice to say that not all politicians are the same but I have yet to know of one who will pass up riding in a 100 thousand plus car. Who will willingly donate his parlimentary salary to some charity cause and decline invitations to them fancy government dinners so that we can save taxpayer money.. mind u this is Samoa we are taking about and we never .. ever.. pass up on a free meal No Matter what station we hold in life.
My brother in law won his Constituent's Seat (if he survives his court case and charges laid by the candidate he was running against) he and my sister might get to go to 'em fancy dinners and nibble on meals that would probably be in the range of $150 tala upwards...the perks.. the perks... (Pinati & Georgy's still rock my world n within my budget) Should he get lucky mighty even get a Govt issued luxury car, but thankfully he owns a $170,000 one so it wont be the first time his ass gets to ride in 'em expensive wheels. Don't know if he will be able to do something constructive for his electorate I can only hope so! I guess he can test drive his luck for the next five years. Two of my brothers I believe may have voted for the opposition, perhaps my eldest sister also as she is a strong believer in change as well as the principles of good governance which are transparency, accountability, equity and participation.. no we are not a dysfunctional family ..we just believe in excercising our individual rights to choose and it makes for one helluvan amazing dinner conversation.
Don't know who my parents voted for. My mom is a radical usually votes for whomever is brave enough to risk being eaten by our dogs. She thinks entering a strangers house for the first time and daring to ask for support shows confidence and commitment. I think it's kinda lame and shows desperation but what the hey... whatever tickles ur fancy ne? My dad is a Tory he votes only for friends or people he knows.
Sometimes we know that his friends are the honest types who will never stand a chance as their platforms look too good to be true and therefore has almost zero possibility of being accepted but I still think its sweet. My dad and his mates are a rare and dying breed but its nice to know that such chivalry and nobleness of thought still exists and trying to penetrate the political arena though mostly without success.
Politics, politicking & politicians comes in all sorts of shapes and sizes, all manners of thought and speech. It permeates through our senses the good ones and the insane ones. You name I will call it. It affects our lives in all levels, dictates our choices and influences our actions direct and indirectly. Sometimes it can complicate our lives, presents obstacles and causes dilemas but we have to see it in its totality. We have to look at the bigger picture and therefore be able to separate the good from the bad. To not only be able to see black and white but the splotches of grey in between. We just have to be smart about our choices and our choices have to be smart enough to capture our votes.
Like I have mentioned before the political arena is for the ruthless and the cunning (those lovely people with green blood..jokes..) but we who put them there have to be even more so. We have to make our voice heard and our vote count, we have to safeguard our votes and not allow them to be bought. If we are to have leaders who respect the sanctity of life, marriage, family etc we have to make them earn our vote. They need to represent all that is good and respectable about our people, our values and way of life. They have to be stronger, dignified, more able than the rest of us, to seek out what is best for everyone not a selected few.They have to represent what is important more so who and that is us..
Ok, lets come back to earth now. I know that our elected members of parliament each have an agenda for wantin' in...(everybody wants something no one is that altruistic) but helping out ones fellow men is not usually at the top of their "must to do list" We have to be realistic concerning our demands on our reps. There are some members who haven't had the luxury of a higher education and the scope of their visions are at times quite short sighter, some are small or medium business men and therefore only interested in profits and making more $$, others just want to make a name for themselves and have a piece of that good life that most of us have only heard about but have yet to experience.
There are also those rare souls who before entering parliament had grand notions of doing good, setting things right, playing it by the book and walking the straight narrow line of incorruptibility... Unfortunately more times than not they get lost in the system which seems to have the knack of eating good people alive and spit them out as insensitive, robotic shadows of their former selves. (Do you think you can beat the system.. change things around for the better. the greatest thing about hope is that it springs eternal..) We have yet to have our turn who knows then??

So where do we stand now? for me at the precipe hoping for a better tomorrow. Praying that our leaders are better men than we think they are and worthy to guide our country thereby pleasantly suprising all of us.

God Bless Samoa and God Bless All of Us!

EASTER WHAT IT MEANS TO ME:

2006-04-14T14:41:00.000+09:00

To many it's just another holiday, a longer weekend, a scrumptious meal on Sunday, an extra day off work Monday (in some parts of the world) which translates into more time to spend with loved ones..getting together with family n friends for a picnic, a drink up or a movie.
There are usually easter hunts for the littles ones and of course who gets the most easter eggs not only gets to have one helluva sugar rush but the option of sharing their bounty with the less fortunate ones.But what does Easter eggs and Bunny have to do with the Crucification and Resurrection of Jesus Christ?*? Sure the Easter bunny is cute and all, kids as well as adults love easter eggs and the games attached to them but what does it all mean. There is that seasonal connection which you can read up on da net : but for non Christians it don't really mean a thing and who gives a jot but for those of us who value what Easter represents the bunny and all the trimmings it's also do not mean anything but we kinda give a jot as the Bunny has sort of taken over Big Time(commercialism and all its sticky tentacles)) and has overshadowed the real meaning of EASTER.

EASTER is all about God and his great love for us. It is about the fulfillment of a promise that was foretold in the Book of Genesis. It is our second chance. It is man being redeemed by his maker. It is the Father laying claim to his children. It is a time to humble ourselves and praise he whose love surpasses all. It is the hope that we all can have. It's a time of rebirth, to search one's soul, to start over, to consider ourselves worthy again. A time to stop trying to control our own lives and hear what the giver of that life has to say. His purpose.. your destiny, his gift..your reward.
Easter is so much more than new life it is life eternal that separates it from the gimmicks of Mr/Mrs Bunny.It is not just the celebration of that one perfect life that was surrendered for us all it is also to celebrate all life bought by that ultimate sacrifice.
What does Easter mean to me?: It is a reminder of all that we have been blessed with because God considers us his own. As much as we love our own children or as much as our parents love us.. how much more does our Heavenly Father love us. So much more that he gave the life of his only begotten son so that we may be saved.
Hallelujah Lord Jesus AMEN!!
Though Easter like Christmas rolls around but once a year Giving Thanks to the Lord for his Unconditional Love and Forgiveness should be a daily ritual for us.
We worship a living God and we can lay claim to his promises. We are saved not because of anything that we have done, but because of his great love. We were ransomed by hithe blood of Jesus and now he is seated at the right hand of God the Father. He is alive and he will return. Let all who believe rejoice in the fact that our Savior our redeemer lives. Death could not contain or hold back the Son of God, he went to his death willingly. He laid down his unblemished life for us so that we can be reunited with the Father. He rose again because he has been given the authority to raise himself from the grave. How awesome is God's power how great is his unconditional love for us for us that even when we were sinners Christ died for us.Amen Lord Amen for you love, mercy and grace.

My very own miracle : Elsa Kolinyedcia Sina Akiko.

2006-04-13T23:29:00.000+09:00

My joy and most prized possesion my daughter when she was almost a month old.

Imagine going through your adult life thinking that you will never hold a baby of your own, in your arms.That you will never be able to look into those trusting little eyes and see your own face smiling back at you (a miniature version though) Consider how difficult it is to come to the realization that perhaps you will never share the joy and heartaches that only a mother can! That you will never know how it feels like to be loved by a tiny little person that belongs to you and came from you.. a small and fragile being brought forth into the world by your love/ lust or whatever it was you may have had going in between (har har..) but seriously I can relate to every heart breaking story by every woman who has had to endure years of trying to conceive. Of childless couples whose lives are torn apart by a void they are unable to fill on their own.

(Working the camera already at one month old..what a lil' poser!!**)

I have tasted the bitterness of their tears, can sympathize with their pain, and know all too well the burning unanswered questions they carry with them.Why us? What went wrong? What can we do? Is there anything that can be done? Would we still be ok if we were to adopt a child indtead? the list is infinite.. I can relate because I used to be in that very place. I have walked in their shoes and have lived with the disappointment. I have felt the same immense sense of longing only to have your heart die bit by bit with the passing of every menstrual cycle. The hopes of ever being called "mommy" fading with the closing of each year.
I have many nephews and nieces and I love them all equally but a part of me used to cry a little every time I see the flicker of pride in their parents eyes or the way they would hold them close. It was hard at times thinking that I would never be able to experience the feel of little arms around my neck wanting to be comforted. That I would never be able to see what my own child would look like, what they would want to be when they grow up. That I will never be able to have that bond that happens only between child and parent that I will miss out on all the great things that parents and their children do and share together.
Elsa at 4 months, the hair starts to curl up @ 6 months & it has been Bob Marley dreads eversince..lol

I never gave up beliving that one day I too would be part of this great circle called Motherhood.. joining this elite group of under appreciated and over worked class of women. Despite numerous false alarms I knew that God would give me my own miracle in his own time. I also made a promise to myself that if he were to grant me my hearts deepest desire I would endeavor to be the best mother I can possibly be. To take in all that came with the position with miminum complaints ..lol.

I have been around enough children to know that there would be tons of diaper changes, early morning feedings, late night lullabys, stressful afternoons, hospital visits, countless baths as well as the whole pregnancy process itself but I was up for it.I was more than ready just waiting for it all to happen. At that point in life I would have gladly walked through a ring of fire if that's what I had to do to get my own baby (Luckily it never came to that..wheww!!!)
But when it finally happened instead of being estatic I was a little panicky. I was extremely grateful to God but was also a little scared and it took a while for everything to sink it. I was in a foreign country couldn't speak the language, without my partner, away from my family and was supposed to be studying on top of that but what the hey..I hung in there and with the Lord's help everything turned out really well. I did not tell anyone immediately except for the baby's father of course I guess I was kinda afraid I might jinx it so until I was 100% sure (Well its a little difficult to keep it under covers coming into my 6th month he he) I finally let a few of my friends in on my BIG SECRET ..lol and because I didn't look or behaved like a pregnant person (how are they supposed to look n behave again he!he!)even they had trouble coming to grips with my "happy news"

Elsa 2yrs old and a handful already oh muh Lord..!!

Looking back at it now I thank the Lord for his magnanimous blessings upon me. I probably had the easiest pregnancy in the entire history of pregnant women (ok maybe the comparison is a bit far fetched)but I had a great time, morning sickness was no problem..the leg cramps were few n far in between.
The only slight trouble I had was trying to follow the doctor's orders "to stay off the sodas and fatty food" which was a strenuous challenge at the time. Kato Sensei's In HoUsE AsSiStAnTs Patricia, Nydia & Koyu of course were always on hand to make sure I was adhering to the good ole doc's advice. I still laugh when I recall these times.

Name:Elsa Kolinyedcia Sina Malolo Aumua
Born: 5:00pm Friday November 7th, 2003.
Place: Kokuritu National Hospital Kamegawa, Beppu.
City: Beppu
Prefecture: Oita -Kyushu
Country: JAPAN.

My little girl had a little trouble during delivery as she was such a big baby but thank goodness for the great Japanese doctors and perky nurses she was well taken care of..Ten little toes and fingers, a full head of hair and a scream that almost brought the hospital roof down.. Yup yup Miss Elsa Kolinyedcia Sina had definately arrived and was letting the whole of Kokuritsu Byoin know about it. It was unbelievable..Totally outta this world. The 12 hour labor I could have done without but other than that it is a special memory I will cherish forever. ****"My golden Rose :I can't bear the thought of life without my baby girl and I can barely remember how things were before her"****

Hanami Island Style :

2006-04-13T21:16:00.000+09:00

(JRO :Singing sensation Jenny Taotua of PTown Wellington & Viliami Latu from Tonga)

Had a great time last Saturday April 8th the Pacific Islanders turned out in full force at Beppu Koen to welcome our new brothers and sisters (2006 APU Spring Intake). There's one thing you can say for certain about us Islanders mention free food and we are there no need to be asked twice. There's one hitch usually it goes like this..We will gladly bring the music, the beer...the conversation and whatever else you fancy but somebody preferably everyone else but us Bring da damn food..

The Sakura Queen herself makes an appearance Yeah whatever..lol

But happy to report we have evolved "pot luck" though an alien concept to most of us has taken root... deep ones.. thankfully. Thanks to the Japanese influence and liking for all things iNsTaNt people were able to bring those wonderful things called bentos or boxed lunches as well as plenty of meat n other edible stuff like Janelle's mangoes which I devoured..yummmmmmy!!Not forgettin' Loma's fabulous curry..I'm up for curry anytime girl har har...

David MA Student from PNG with my husband and baby.

So with plenty to eat/drink and hot bods to feast the eyes upon (JOKES)we rocked it under the sakura trees (cherry blossoms)till the sun was safely tucked away in its usual resting place.(wherever that is ..lol) Then we moved over to SPA BEACH where we lit up a bonfire the way our ancestors did using flotsam lyin' around the place minus the sound of slurred speeches after one too many Asahi birus.
Feasted again on a well done BBQ by Mitch and the gang by this time even the burnt bits were tastin' finger lickin' good. I am pretty sure the ojisans who were watching us were guessin' if we were gonna be able finish everything but it took us a just a couple of minutes to put their wondering minds to rest. I mean hello!!** Tu'u (Funaki) was not about to let all that food go to waste and I also brought along my 44 gallon garbage disposal.. that lavish spread never stood a chance..lol..

The Afakasi kids come out to play, my niece Ata & mi boy Mitch.

Uncle Simon brought his kids gosh I could not believe how much they had grown but then, it has been awhile since I've seen them. Funny coz the last time was @ the BBQ uncle threw for Nydia and Ron before they returned home.

Now I see them again at another BBQ uncle organized and its to welcome Ron back as well as the other new students.The latest batch is comprised of 2 Hawaiians Ron and his brother Michael, Marie from PNG & Kilika from Tonga. We are still a small group but at least our number is still growing.

Ata and Michael : Transplanted All Blacks.

The later part of the party was just as great as when we were at the park earlier on in the day with great music from Jenny who drove all the way up from Fukuoka with Loma our Fijian sister. Ata arrived the day before. Give it up for the ELT's. Man is it ELT or ALT??

I always assumed it was English Language Teacher but then again I could be wrong and I have been known to be wrong once or twice har har..Our very own home grown Elvis Viliami and his Tongan entourage also threw in a few numbers. Tina and Felise feeling nostalgic sang the number they performed during the Ai No Nami Concert. It had a lot more bars and chords this time but Tin Tin after a few cans was still able to keep in time and in tune..har har...Anyways having the girls around Ata, Jenny and Loma made it even more special for everyone.

Elsa enjoying their little bonfire hence the bluish haze.

We had to cut our night short though as we had to bring one sleepy Elsa home. She just had the most amazing time with everyone running them ragged especially poor Mitch & Shiori,playing chase,baketball and what not until she discovered the magic of "sand" after that she was captured, totally mesmerized. Little does she know that if there is one thing Samoa has plenty of.. its sand ..lol. Once we are home she will have all the sand her little heart can bear.

We missed out on karaoke that night as well as going to Cool Banana's in Oita (not that I have ever been there) but hey when you are parents you have to make these little sacrifices but we do not feel like we are missing out as being with our little girl is fun like no other. Anyways peeps happy Hanami...Laterzz

Thank you Lord for a beautiful get together and for blessing us with great weather.