MERRY CHRISTMAS

So it's been forever since I blogged,I guess not traveling doesn't allow for as many unusual updates. I am now living in Libertyville, IL and working part time at Lambs Farm (a residential for adults with developmental disabilities) and also as a nanny/babysitter with the fabulous family I worked for before leaving for missions. It seems a good opportunity to catch up on some finances and explore future options. I wont be home for christmas (so sad!) but mom and dad might stop in next weekend for a few days.

Haven't heard much news from YWAM Samoa; alot of the staff have left. I believe there is a focus on a dance team that would do outreach to other countries.

right now is to be connected with a church nearby. I wouldnt mind going to a few different churches if necessary but want to make sure that I am serving somewhere.

Merry Christmas everyone.... remember Jesus is the reason to celebrate, all year round actually....

Here is a picture of the pond from the window of my apartment (before snow and after).

Moving

So Good news all around- I got the part time job in Libertyville, just north of chicago, that will provide me with a free apartment. I also have an interview set with another company for another part time job. Am praying GOd continues to lead me where he wills....
I am also now LEGAL again and can drive. They extended the emissions and I am officially valid again, and my car registration is updated, and I have insurance (I find great joy in small things!)
I dont have orientation until the 26th which leaves me some extra time with family.
My newest deal: facebook on the internet. Its facinating to catch up with people I haven't talked to in years and wouldn't otherwise have a way to trace! Some are now married with new last names, with kids etc.... Its great!!

Sat- looks like Chicago

First of all my driver's license: Apparently while I was away they sent an emissions notice and in the state of chicago they can apparently suspend your license if you dont have it tested!! So I spent hours on the phone figuring out who to contact (believe it or not even the local police departments in a nameless suburb in Chicago couldn't tell me who to go to in order to figure out why it was suspended-that doesn't make any sense to me). Finally got it figured out, explained my out of the country situation and they gave me an extension. I should be legal by now, will check it later today.
In the meantime I had interviews on Monday in Chicago so mom drove me out. Despite complaints of traffic she had a good time. The interviews went well and I should know by middle of next week. Its just a part time job but offers a free apartment in exchange for some 'oncall' time, which would leave my day open to another part time job.
I also got to see my two godsons; jayden and josiah. Jayden is almost walking now and has a crazy head of hair. Josiah is talking very well and I can't believe what a big boy he is!! Six months during the life of a child under four is ALOT of change!
My newest time filler: facebook. Its addicting trying to track down old friends. If only my internet connection were better I could upload more pictures.
Anyways, so Im back in Iowa, just waiting for the green light , and if I dont get it IM back to square one in the job search!! God is good right?
Verse for today is from Galatians: I will boast in nothing but the blood of Christ. Really I see so many people trying to find their worth or purpose in their relationships, in their career, in their 'stuff', in their activities....but really it boils down to one thing: discipleship with Christ. All else in meaningless, just take atrip around the world and it will set it in stone for ya.
Have a great weekend!!

Kink in the plans...

Sooo after having a good time with Meg and Matt again (thanks for the hairdo meg) we hit a snaffooo. I am scheduled to be in CHicago On monday for some interviews, with the plan to drive on Sunday. However it was discovered that my drivers license is legally suspended!!! I had no idea. Id rather not go to jail so am now trying to find out why my license is suspended when Ive been out of the country for six months, and also Plan B for heading to Chicago. Prayers please :)

The 'itch'

So its here again... the itch to keep moving on. 'on the road again.....' Only this time I dont have a place to go yet!!! Im still praying about moving either to Chicago or Colorado Springs but as of yet do not have a confirmation on a place to live.... But having been home one month now it's time to start working. Its a weird position to feel like I have numerous options available to me but without money it's not easy to just jump into one (always good to be wise). The only place I REALLY want to be is back in the islands but that will have to wait!

I was able to present a brief overview of my time in Samoa last Sunday during my church's Sunday School hour. Showed some pictures, how to tie a lavalava, answered questions about the lizards.... It was really good. I wish there more time because there's so much to say about a six month experience but hopefully they've been able to check out the blog every once in a while too. Its nice to have this record cause Im not very good at taking the time to journal.

Ive always wondered.... "Love covers a multitude of sins". Does that refer just to my sins being covered? Or does that also mean that MY love has the power to cover someone elses' sins? Ultimatly Im sure it refers to Christ's love and sacrifice for us and the freedom found in that but it makes me curious as to if we are missing out on something BIG in our communities (families, churches etc) by not grabbing hold to that concept enough- and extending our grace onto each other.

My other topic for today: gossip. Its so deadly. Its like poison- it may stay under wraps for a moment but pretty soon the effects are felt all over the BODY. And in the case Im speaking of the body is actually the Body of Christ. Taming the tongue truly is one of the most difficult things for most of us and Im not surprised the Bible talks about it often, refering to it as a double edged sword. Having felt the negative effects of gossip it makes me sit back and watch my own tongue. If its not edifying or truly out of a genuine concern than there is no need to be talking about others. I pray I can find that balance in my life too. And forgive those who are on the same journey!! (love covers a multitude of sins right?)

Hopefully next time I blog Ill have GOOD NEWS about where I am heading.....

spending a few days with sister Meg and brother in law Matt! Right now hanging at the PD (police department). Enjoying time resting and catching up , some more, with them! And of course continuing to send out resumes!

Since I missed Matt and Meg's anniversary (ONE YEAR WOOHOO)- here is a shout out! and a big congrats!

Friday Oct 19

Just a quick update: I MISS THE ISLANDS!! Its absolutly wonderful having visited all my family. I spent a few days with the Kennedys and the highlight was helping grandpa pick pears off his pear tree. I will get to see a high school friend tonite and it will be good to catch up. Otherwise I feel a bit caught in a dilema. Do I return to what I know, who I was by returning to Chicago (despite not having housing). Or do I start over? And if I start over do I do it close to relatives, or start again in a new state? Obviously prayers would be helpful so God can open some doors for me. Any suggestions on cheap phone minutes to call Samoa would also be helpful! :)

Time in Iowa

A few shots of Iowa landscape:

The past few days Ive felt blessed to be able to serve. I enjoyed babysitting for a couple boys that I used to while I was in high school, so seeing them be 'young men' now was so much fun. Boys are terribly energetic but also lots of laughs. Ive been down visiting grandparents the past day and we've enjoyed catching up. Today I helped out at a clothes pantry (organizing, setting up, sorting) with grandma (she volunteers) and mom. Above are some pictures of setting up the clothes we sorted. We should be returning to Belmond tomorrow after visiting my uncle. Also picked up the classifieds from Des Moines to look at when I get home ! Yikes....

Recent

Matt (brother-in-law) with dad getting ready for the gun education outreach the next day. The guns were 'big', like I've only seen on TV. They had a good turnout!




Reuniting with my 'pawppy' Ricky.











Megan in the 'lavalava' I gave her

Friday

Well I still have jet lag and my body hasn't quite figured out how to get its usual sleep and stay on schedule. Im still working on trying to upload pictures and figure out the cheapest way to make copies. Yesterday a couple from church invited mom and I to go out to eat (dad had a meeting) and what a blessing it was to have steak and potatoes! Good ol' american food! I drank too much pop last night though and couldn't sleep, my body is not used to so much caffeine and sugar (mom had to make chocolate chip cookies for my return!). Last night I almost got up to open a window cause Im used to sleeping with fresh air and the coolness of night (my guess is it would have been too cool!!). Mom comments on my tan which is funny because I always felt so WHITE compared to the islanders! Ill probably update the blog again after this weekend and Matt's gun seminar (we girls have going to have 'girl' time). ~alissa

Im back in America!

Being back in America means culture shock, the other way! My flights were good except i did not sleep, even on the NINE hour one (nine some hours to Los Angeles and then another three some to Minneapolis)! So once I got home I slept at least ten hours.... Went up to the base to say my goodbyes on Monday before flying out. The new DTS has started with at least ten or twelve students. Lots of changes still going on with staff changes etc... It was hard to say goodbyes. I will miss the island culture. Once I stepped off the plane in Minneapolis I realized I was back to the coolness of the midwest. My parents were there to great me and I had to remind myself i didn't have to share ALL my stories with them in one night! Ive been sharing some of my island music, some pictures, stories to my parents while doing laundry. Already talk of me going to a job fair next week. I get to see my sister and brother in law, Matt and Meg this weekend as Matt is coming up to do a gun education thing at my church (outreach).

One more week!

My ticket is purchased and I will be leaving one week from today-- Monday Oct 2. I will be heading up to the base at the end of the week to say my goodbyes . Not looking forward to a 9.5 hour flight to LA and then another 3 hours to minneapolis. Thanks for the prayers for my travel!! ...~alissa

New week

So the new week has begun... Ive been sick the past few days (cold/cough)and have spent a lot of time just 'resting'. I must admit I get bored. The household should quite down tonite because the Fijian ministry team that has been here returns home tonite. We will miss them though. My guess is that I will be in Samoa for another two weeks before being able to head home and am comparing prices (EXPENSIVE). Trying to make the most out of being a 'tourist' (Without spending alot of money) . Hmmm Ive been thinking about Souvenirs to bring back...how do you capture an entire culture and adventure in one item? Ha! I feel I am starting to close the door to this chapter and looking ahead to the next one. Things are slowing down a bit now the South Pacific Games are officially over. It was great seeing so many cultures in one place and even hearing french (New Caledonia). I am starting to feel my thoughts go to "This may be the last time I eat... or This may be the last time I go to....". Funny things too - like Ill miss 'breadfruit', and taking taxis everywhere for cheap, and wearing Lavalavas (and going barefoot) etc... Once Im home my goal will be to rest and visit family/friends the first few weeks back and then start working until after Christmas time. Hopefully I will have more pictures and touristy info next time I write. Here is an overview of where some of the other students are after graduation:
Sai and Liti - stayed in Australia for two months in order to fundraise to send them to Asia for missions
Vinepa- back at home here in Samoa
Nuu- back at home, he is looking into opportunities to travel to New Zealand or elsewhere in the future
Jennifer- after a week of goodbyes she is flying back to the US tonite and will be working for YWAM in Colorado
Ameto- Back at home here in Samoa, think he wants to work before travel/missions
Solepoi- working at the base as base staff and looking ahead to being in Australia in one year
Akuila - working with the YWAM base until the next ministry option (australia, usa?? who knows)
Me- two more weeks in Samoa and then heading to the USA to work before off for the next adventure

Graduation!

Me dancing the Kia Kaha, a warrior song about being strong and curious, steadfast in the Lord.

Below: The graduating ladies: Jennifer, Alissa and Vinepa (stage was on dining room in background)

Finally graduated from the DTS at YWAM SAMOA!! WOOHOO. Here are just a few pictures, we dressed up in our "uniforms" because we danced two numbers. Graduation was basically a quick speaker, some worship, handing out diplomas, prayer over the students and then a series of island dances done by us, the base staff and a few guests. It was fun!

Another trip to Savaii

The picture below is of the beautiful beach in Manase, the town we stayed at in Savaii. I have never seen such diverse and bright colors in the water. The second is of me in front of one of our fales. (under the coconut tree...)

Back to Samoa

We arrived safely back from our stay in Emerald yesterday, the drive was terribly LONG. We stopped at a zoo on the way back so I can say I saw a Koala in Australia, just not in live action. Although when we got back to the base I found out there was one out in the tree behind where I am staying while we were gone and they had to call animal control. Wonder why God didn't wait another day for that one? And imagine Ive come down with a bad head cold. In fact I can't remember the last time I had a cold this bad. I slept eleven hours last night and the director here, Waqa, informed me that I had big black bags under my eyes so it was good that I slept. Unfortuntaly the leaders, against my wishes, made the decision not to allow me to perform during our last presentation in Emerald due to my sickness. What a disapointment! Im ready to be done with the outreach, and am looking forward to the next season in life, whatever that will be!! Right now I hop on the plane again tomorrow and fly into Samoa. I guess our graduation should be the following day. After that I plan on staying in Samoa a bit and catching up on all the tourist things that I couldn't do while in school. I imagine Ill be able to get to the internet shop in Apia by the weekend since they are a day behind us and update everyone. Sorry for the lack of details lately... it seems my time on the computer is limited!

Yeeehaw

So today we spent our first day in 'emerald' after a TEN HOUR drive yesterday (praise the lord we made it) and we almost ran into about eight kangaroo but god was faithful to us and our bumpers. This morning we had prayer at the botanical gardens. they have some interesting plants- one looks like a vase, with a big bottom then like a palm tree on top. We are oging again tomorrow so i might bring my camera. This afternoon we went to a REAL live Ranch. Complete with horse back riding (two of the fijians it was for the first time). Akuila rides bare back at home (and bare foot) so this was the first time for him to ride with a saddle. They cookedus stew and dumplings on the fire. on the way home we almost hit kanga, porcupine and possum . it was all in all a good day. I also found it a bit strange that their ten year old son was describing D Day to me and even brought out a book he's reading about the british and american troups. I honestly think he knew more about it than i did! This is what I imagined aussie to be--- lots of nothing, ranches that go on for hundreds of acres, lots of trees, a few rives, kangaroos. we must me quite a ways in land. Gotta run to bed, thanks for checking in, more adventures ahead Im sure! "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." -- John 14:27

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More pictures

Meaghan and Pisa's wedding; both from Brisbane YWAM Base (Pisa Fijian and Meaghan Australian)

Traditional island dance, Island Breeze performers (at the wedding)

Solepoi and myself at a barbeque hosted by John's (from Brisabane YWAM) aunt and uncle

Aborigine church, some of the children before we performed our items

Pictures

Group shot in Kyogle in front of a mural in town, before we ran the kids program at church for the Aborigines

Us before Leadership Training Conference (La, myself, Akuila, Sova, Liti in the back)

Tues - on the road again

Quick update: We are leaving again tomorrow morning for another location (and be there until Sunday)- i guess its about ten hours away, heading north and west from Brisbane, a town called 'emerald'?? Even my leaders aren't for sure of the name yet. Last minute details. We performed one song last night at the base and its hard to leave them because they seem like family now. Im still praying about staying on here at thebase and waiting for God to show me not only where I should be but the timing also! I was SO COLD last night.... makes me miss the summer in Chicago.... andthe wonderful festivals downtown.... *sigh*...By the way, when we were in Kyogle I had pizza for the first time in four months... but it was ham and pineapple pizza so I am still looking forward to my first REAL meaty piece of pizza (um I guess I am hungry right now!). Here is a quickoverview of the past two weeks:
Left Brisbane for Kyogle and stayed on a beautiful ranch where we saw wallabies every morning. We worked with the Aborigene community, especially in church and also performed at a park and did a kids program. We travelled from there to Port Macquarie for a wedding, a beautiful city, beaches and giant waves...very nice touristy town. We stayed a week near there in Kempsey and again got connected with an Aborigene church who were so welcoming. Then we came back to Brisbane, and now off again....
Will I make it to Syndney before I leave? Hopefully the beginning of next week, I should start praying about it cause I would love to not only see the city but also the YWAM base there.... its hard being under someone else's leadership!!! forso many reasons:)

Back in Brisbane

Just a quick note to say I am back in Brsiabne! Thank goodness it was a rumor about the living conditions and we were able to stay in a house almost all thetime except one night!!!
We spent the last week in Kyogle and Kempsey as our bases and going out to meet with the Aborigines, run some kids programs, work with the church services, perform , intercession and prayer time and the Aborigenes love to talk and joke so lots of fellowship time! There are som that really ministered back to us and were an encouragement also! Such a blessing to see how God is working in these churches. We saw wallabies as soon as we got out there and in Kyogle we stayed out on a ranch type land so saw lots of animals! We also went to a wedding, a Fijian guy and Australian girl from the base in Brisbane, and it was beautiful, also gave us a chance to see the scenic town of Port McQuarie. One week left, I think they are trying to get us to Syndney a bit too. Being in the team has had its rough moments, please be praying for my decisions after the DTS is done including committing to ministry or coming home , and how to use my finances wisely! Hopefully ill have some time soon to write more details! Im safe and sound!

Off we go

Just a quick update: we leave for Mulimuli to minister to the aborigenes early tomrrow morning, like 4 am. I guess the rumor is we sleep outside near the fire so you um, I hope its just a rumor. I have a sleeping bag, blanker and half another sleeping bag in case. And as many warm clothes as I could find, I also bought a stocking cap today just in case. Praise god for the boots i brought. We are performing again tonite because its 'fiji' night at one of the churches so we will do our meke. This morning a man, Nu's (Students) uncle , blessed us with plenty of food for a barbeque. Last night I got to ride down to the city, Brisbane at night and it was beautiful. I newer city, university nearby. I liked it alot and hope to see it again during the day. People seemed quite a bit more casual than chicago in dress and style. Still trying to make decisions for after the DTS so please continue to pray. I guess on the base they found a koala in one of the trees but the law is that you have to call the animal service people right away. Can i at least take a picture? maybe next time. Love the people on the base, so nice and generous and talented. We will be gone almost two weeks, one week in mulimuli then to a wedding (fijian guy on the base here in australia with ties to two of our staff from fiji) and then finally back. Still trying to not freak out everytime we turn on the round abouts and I feel we are driving the wrong side of the street! Aie! So good day to you all and hopefully update again in a week or so! alissa

Wed

Just a quick update-we've been here at the base for about one week and this week were able to do two mornings of evangelism at a local mall, its good to get in the swing of things. We are also helping out in the kitchen and doing some yard works. Because our finances are low the boys have also had the opportunity to earn some money by working for people. We praise God for the opportunity to minister to the aborigenes in Mulimuli and we will be leaving on Friday morning, early. Its inland and we are encouraged to see more of Australia!! more later, supper time, alissa

In Australia!!

I made it safely to Australia!! Our team has a few minor hitches while traveling but we made it safely. We lost one bag, but it was picked up the next day. We also had to spend some extra time filling out customs notices because it wasn't written in the right color ink :) And then on the way to the base we got a call from airport that Solepoi's passport was found. How that happened we dont know :) Lavenia arrived last night and she was the last of the crew to fly in and we praise God that we are all here in Australia (even though La only has a one way ticket). Solepoi's first time on the plane went well. He asked me midflight if he could take his shirt off cause he was hot and I explained it wasn't appropriate in a plane. He also felt pain after the second flight in his ears so I gave him some gum. When we were leaving Syndney to come to Brisbane he got excited about some lights outside and I looked out expecting to see the beautiful city of Syndney, instead his excitement was over the lights on the cranes of a construction site. But he is right.. it was pretty :). He also got to ride the escalator for the first time with no problem.
We are staying at the YWAM Island Breeze base in Carbrook (its a phenomonal dancing group) and will be here for one month. Our finances are so tight that the little money we have we are using for food on the weekends and transportation. The base is so generous in providing food for us and waving our fee for housing.
THE COLD... oh my goodness. I had been focusing so much on praying for my islanders and their adjustment that I forgot my own! The first day was really tough for me , we woke up and it was so cold we could see our breath (sova joked it was like smoking)... the cold is PAINFUL! I might need more clothes. I think now that Ive been here a few days my body is adjusting back but I didn't realize it would be hard on me! Also some cutural shock things... like wanting to take my shoes off before entering a building, or feeling stuffy in the morning cause im used to an open fale, or needing to buy a watch, or wanting to say Tulo as I pass by (excuse me) etc...So far we have only been off the base once, to a park down the road that is on a main river. We went there to pray and it was pretty, lots of different birds here. My favorite is the black and white one but I dont know what they are called. We are praying about opportunities for next week to start getting into the culture and start ministering. So far we've been serving the base. The boys are out this morning clearing someone's yard, and they will give a donation towards our team (the ladies are in charge of preparing the boys lunch, sounds like a sweet deal to me!). Ive heard a couple of 'Goodayes' since being here but a large part of the base is Fijian (so my islanders fit right in). The DTS here just had their graduation last night and will be leaving during this next week. Some americans. There was a crazy good Moire dance (very warriors/angry/ aggressive type dance) and it was really moving- about Christ's death. I can't even explain it but the men pound their chest and actually scratch themselves... it was good. I need batteries for my camera so I can get some of that on video.
We give praises to God not just for health and safety but even the blessing of little things like the abundance of food, they are filling our fridge with bread and butter everyday and we eat with them so we get meat, and veggies every meal. Solepoi is quick to point out how good the australian bread is (he just means whole wheat or grain bread).
Enough of an update for now, since we have internet on the base I can update more later!
In case you want to send me a card or anything the address here is:

Island Breeze Carbrook, Australia
Attn Alissa, YWAM Samoa
799 Beenleigh-Redland Bay Road, Carbrook 4130BrisbaneQueensland
AUSTRALIA

LEAVING ON A JET PLANE....

Um dont know why the picture is sideways.... that my new pulitasi. The bottom is our last fundraiser that we did this weekend. Some sort of banana and starch mixture and then a sauce over it (coconut and brown sugar). Hmmmm

IM SO EXCITED ABOUT LEAVING FOR AUSTRALIA TOMORROW! We talked last night about what type of ministry we want to do like street evangelism, helping in shelters etc... I guess the Brisbane base is divided into two - and we will stay in the older section which is cabins. Im concerned about Akuila and Solepoi, being away from the island heat. And they dont have a sleeping bag... its going to be really cold at night. We got some good info from a builder that was here this last week, BRian, about what the base is like and more info on the Aborigenes. I know that our leader, Sai had a heart for the Aborigenes but its expensive to travel to them and Sai said that they may divide the team into two, leaving me behind because im white. Isn't that the same thing they are preaching against? division cause of skin color? I hope he was joking. Its funny cause I hadn't really experienced racism until I came here, even 'good racism' because im a 'palagi'. There are so many things that I will miss here and saying goodbye to the base staff has not been easy. Packing too - im trying to leave with half the bags I came with! I might have to buy some warmer clothes when I get there.
So money continues to be an issue and it seems the base has misplaced 2000 tala that I paid for outreach ( our team really needs it because after paying tickets we have no money for ground fees) so Ill have one more meeting tonite about that. Also the way this team is run is very much island style so God will have to continue to give me patience (i like to put out the fire before they start).... Im excited to see God's faithfulness in bringing our team closer together and providing us with ministry opportunities that we dont expect.
Please pray for our transitioning planes in Sydney, we only have 90 mins to check out of international, take a shuttle, and check back into domestic. Also please pray for Poi as he's never left the island of Samoa and might need some extra care. Also for Sai and Sova, leading the team. For finances, and that we would continue to seek God first in all our plans and steps.
Also please keep praying for our local team in Savai, they are young in age and I think some are feeling homesick or wanting to play when its time for work :)
Hopefully the next blog will bring fabulous news from Aussie land!

Happy bday to me

This is the place we went for my birthday, a shot taken last time I was there: its the ocean and then a fresh water pool with a cave. Its awesome cause naturally there is a blue light that makes the water, and the fish look incredible. Wish I could take a picture inside but didn't want to get my camera wet :) Also people jump off the cliff into the water (um like Akuila and Solepoi, not myself!)

Solepoi, Lavenia, Akuila and myself after swimming in the cave

Liti, La , myself and Solepoi being silly

Yesterday was my birthday! Despite a few ups and downs and the fact that I had to pay for everyone's bus fare, it was excellent. In the morning they sang happy birthday at breakfast, then we all came into town and bought our tickets to Australia! So we will be flying out together next Tuesday and returning on Sept 5- Praise god that decent prices opened up!! Everyone has their airfare except for La so we will do a bit more fundraising for her before we leave. After that we took the bus to Buela Beach , the beach with the awesome cave, and spent the afternoon there. I was thankful that everyone was together and that I got to enjoy Samoa while there. Here are a few pictures from yesterday! Praise God we are going to Australia!!!

Tuesday Update- Go Team!

Picture: Me, Lavenia, Sova, Solopoi, Akuila, Sai, Liti and Jenn

I preached my first sermon on sunday - way to start our outreach, even though its here is Samoa! In the morning Akuila preached (he did a really good job -focused on not worrying about tomorrow as god would provide as long as we seek first the kingdom). I also shared a brief testimony and Liti also and we danced two dances. It was a small church, most of the ones we go to are about fifty-one hundred people. The children there were awesome and they sang and danced their little hearts out during our worship time, they weren't afraid to pray outloud either. In the evening I got to preach! Akuila and Solopoi gave their testimonies and we did four dances. When we first got there they asked myself and Tom, our translator, to go meet with the elders. It was very traditional samoa and I was a bit nervous but they were all nice and just greeted me and prayed in samoan. I was thankful they allowed a lady to preach. It was only about twenty minutes, having translation took up a lot of my time. Awesome! The feedback I got was really good except i talk too fast! Too funny. Thats something I can work on. Praise God that He is finally allowing us to get out there and challenge ourselves.

Yesterday I spent most of the day on the bus, taking Jenn to the wharf because she will be joining the Savaii local team, and then to the airport with Liti to pick up a package and then a few places in town. I love being out of the base and experiencing Samoa and its beautiful scenery. The airport is at least forty minutes away by bus and the road runs around the coast so I got to see lots of water. Yesterday the bus was packed (always) so two little students had to sit on my lap. Only about four years old and six years old . They were sooo sleepy that they kept nodding off to sleep. I cant imagine allowing my four year old to go on the bus alone.

Embassy update: they finally released our passports with visas today after I had already gone to talk about a back up plan- either Fiji or American Samoa. Praise God we should be purchasing tickets tomorrow!

They celebrated all the july bdays last night by getting cakes and singing happy bday (andy, myself, panina and mercy). That was nice. Im still praying we get to do something nice likea picnic just the dts, or the beach. Sova and Sai pulled me over during their meeting and said they were trying to get us released. If not, i might have to run away for the day. Akuila keeps reminding me only one more month until my freedom is back but dang it, i want a memorable birthday!

New outfits

Here is a picture of a few of us in our new outfits: the women in our 'pulitasi' and the men in their shirts. Lavenia (staff from Fiji), Vinepa (Student from Samoa), Solopoi (Student from Samoa), ME, Jenn (student from Washington). And one of our boys fale's in the background.

Need a breakthrough

Couple pics- Jenn , Leo from Brazil and myself in the GIRLS FALE!!!! Way to set a good example Leo! Also Jenn and I at the beach. Some updates: still going to be at least another week if not more before we fly out. Another delay with visas and a dissapointment with finances. Beginning to ask why.... are we SURE we are supposed to be in Australia? Just waiting on God and trusting that He will give us patience and show us the way! In the meantime we do two presentations at church this weekend, the first time as our outreach team so its half the students. The other students will be presenting in Savaii. Akuila will preach in the morning and we all need to prepare to testify. I dont know if I like public speaking... I think im good at it but that doesnt mean I like it! We have a new team on the base, from Canada with lots of kids. Its great having kids around again unless its three in the morning and one is crying (remember we live in OPEN fales). Hopefully more positive updates the beginning of next week. I was given the option of going to Australia alone but decided that I prefer to wait for the team and minister here with the team while we wait to go.... Not what I expected but God reminded me I have a lifetime of serving and traveling. Amene!!

OUTREACH update

Hmmm so now we are into week four of outreach.... and no tickets yet :) We have been delayed a couple times by the embassy on behalf of the Fiji passports but it looks like we are now in the clear and just waiting for them to call us... Then we can buy our tickets for next week. The local team, the ones without enough money to go to Australia, are leaving for the island of Savai on Friday and will be there for one month. The main thing will be a building project but really Im a bit jealous because I did want to see more of that island. They have beautiful waterfalls and you can swim with sea turtles. I guess God is teaching me some major lessons in Patience. I was reading in Ecclesiastes the part that talks about a season for everything and I realize this must be my season for silence and waiting. This week DTS is supposed to be off kitchen duty but we end up being in there still , Im wondering if they dont have enough base staff available to help. The Kona team has been focusing on SPG (south pacific game) outreaches and three of them with major soccer background has been able to practice with the Samoan team.
You know, Im focusing on appreciating my last moments here in Samoa. Ive spent over three months sleeping and eating in the open air (since our fales are open). Ive lost weight (ha Im counting that a blessing and not a concern). Ive made some fun and good relationships inside and outside the base. Ive learned a little bit of Samoan, and been able to appreciate the BEAUTIFUL countryside and ocean. Many things to be thankful for. And hopefully some of these relationships can continue by email when I leave. It makes me excited about exploring new places too!
They have some building projects coming up including two new bathroom buildings and two new fales for guests. On the down side one of the efforts included adding a light to the bathroom we have now which is right behind the girls fale. So when I lay down for bed around ten oclock its like the glory of God flowing through our open fale with the bright light. We've been hanging our lavalavas up just to keep it dimmer (um, I made the suggestion that they place the light on the girls fale FACING the bathroom instead but nothing has been changed yet). I did my clothes by hand again yesterday and wondered if it would be one of the last times. I forget completly what a hotshower is like, and what a tomato tastes like. I think honestly I might go through some culture shock getting to Australia and the 'real' life again. Maybe on the good side I wont spend time on some the things like TV or be more careful with my money now that Ive gone through living like this.
One food ill miss: Saka (spelling?) Basically bananas cooked in coconut cream. Hmmmm
Its lunch time and Im hungry :)
THANK YOU GOD FOR YOUR FAITHFULNESS TO ME!!

Outreach

so we are i think officially in the third week of outreach.... our fiafia night went off well with some money raised (close to 900 talas). We performed really well and the audience was very supportive.
on another note this has been a discouraging day because a decision was made by the new mentor on base that DTS students should be serving in the kitchen this week for the base, so no outreach prep, no evangelism and no fundraising. Make sense to anyone? Me neither. i already voiced my heart, which is to be reaching the people of samoa and serving the churches before leaving for australia but i have to obey my leaders. i asked malakai for half a day to get away because i feel like leaving for a ministry that will have me being active. there will always be hard times but i want to feel that after a long day of serving, not feeling as though i have to fight to reach out and connect. I believe its part of the transition of leadership but it truly makes my heart sad. please pray for me this week and for the leaders.
we have a dts team from kona hawaii here and its been great getting another view and meeting new people! about 23 people in that group including one family, one marriedcouple with baby. Good variety. check out the newer pictures on my photobucket site!
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me right? Maybe this is to make me appreciate the freedom I have everyday to speak the gospel.

CHECK out my link to " SAMOA PICTURES" and scroll down to 'SUB ALBUMS'

Sneaky

Im sneaking a moment in to update you guys- we are on outreach phase so technically Im not supposed to have any free time to email/internet BUT I spent a long day in town yesterday and back this morning to work on turning in our visas for Australia so I decided I needed half an hour! The American applications are no problem but our little Fijians are a bit more complicated. Our trip continues to be postponed and if all goes well with the visas the first team should leave July 19th. I say first team because our finances have not come in as we need so right now I am the only one with the full amount for my plane ticket. We have one more fundraiser this weekend that should put three more people in so four of us will go to the YWAM base in Brisbone with hopefully a few more getting tickets as the money comes in this summer. Again, if you feel in your heart to give financially please email or call. Ive jumped in and somewhat 'taken' over the push to get everything done and in simply because Im anxious to get out there!
Its continued to be a difficult transition of leadership and while our new 'family' (Epi and Andy) bring a lot of strengths and changes it also has become somewhat chaotic and at times confusing. Please be praying that leadership focuses on the spiritual and heart of God and that the devil would not use our words against us or to discourage us.
This past Sunday our team performed at two churches, one in the morning and one in the evening. That was a challenge for us but it was a bigger blessing. Both churches welcomed us with open arms and we performed well, I gave my testimony Sunday morning and God blessed it as it encouraged the church to continue to walk in the Freedom found in knowing God. In the evening we had the whole service so we performed four or five songs, had two testimonies and Malakai also preached. Then they fed us- PRAISE GOD!! We always like partaking in the Samoan food. Im still learning the ins and outs of protocol on what not to do (it can sometimes be formal) but fortunatly everyone has been gracious with my mistakes ! The evening church was over an hour away but what a FANTASTIC view, from the ocean to the mountains. It was beautiful and I felt so blessed to share it with the other students. We did sing alongs and had a great time during the ride, with quite a few 'prayer' moments over our noisy van that apparently doesnt like hills with 12 passengers.
We are doing one last 'fiafia' night on Saturday to raise some more funds so we will be doing five numbers, one skit. Also a team that is here (Kings Kids) will perform also. It should be a fun night.
Personally I have been feeling run down and a bit sick but it doesnt seem the time to be able to rest yet. Please also pray for Malakai as he has been ill for a while also. We've been discussing possibly returning to the beautiful island of Savaii as a team next week, only instead of it being my little break it will be to perform, do community outreach and encourage the local churches and schools. Please pray that this can happen as our team would thrive on such an opportunity.
I am finally sick of cocoa rice! Ha- i loved it when I first got here but after having it for breakfast numerous times Im finally giving it a break! I hope to have more encouraging updates, but dont know when Ill get to the computer!!
The South Pacific Games continue to approach so lots of construction and getting ready for that!

This week has been a tough week and the first time that I have actually considered leaving!! God is still good though and I have faithHe will reknew me- I only have two more weeks until we leave for australia anyways. Please continue to pray for the transition of leaders, we have a new couple on campus, and also people's attitudes and spirits towards what they are doing here in YWAM.
We perform tomorrow at a church and are excited to finally be out of lecture phase and onto serving. We did a couple more fundraisers this week of selling Roti in themorning and its actually becoming one of my favorite things to do because its a great team builder, we interact with the community etc... the only downside is getting up at 4 in the morning. I remembered fondly this morning those saturdays in the past where I allowed myself to sleep until 11 am. NO MORE. everyone is up and noisy by 700 even on Saturdays :) Its been a bit chilly later with the wind for some reason, not sure if its the time of year or what! We are on 'lockdown' the next week or two which means students dont have free days anymore. So I hope to continue to update but unsure how often. I wonder if I will have to buy warm clothes in Australia? Anyone know what the weather is like there this time of year? I think we will spend al ot of time in Brisbone and maybe this place called Palm Island. I only have warm weather clothes....God will provide! We had a fiafia night again last night to welcome a team from New Zealand called 'Kings Kids'. I always enjoy those because its Samoan food and great dancing and laughing. We've been spending extra time cleaning up the base this past week. Pulling weeds, replanting etc...God is also teaching me some big lessons on submitting to authorities, and to be above reproach in everything. I can't pick and choose when to obey and follow the rules- I need to be consistent and an example at all times. gotta run cause this place is closing... everything closes at 12 on Saturdays, not like the city!

Friday-Outreach prep

Whew.... we are finally ALMOST certain that our destination will be Australia now with 9 people going: La, Sai,Sova and Onasai as leaders and Jenn, myself, Akuila, Solopoi, Liti . We have been doing some fundraising, including waking up at 4 in the morning two days in a row to make Roti and Curry (indian dish) to sell. Its fun but its tiring. We have a new family on the base and the lady is a dance instructor so she is brushing us up and teaching us new dances. We haven't had much time to spend outside the base with no more 'free' days but we did have one last picnis last Saturday and spent some time at the beach called 'Paradise' beach (you can imagine...). They said its not even the best beach on the island. It was a big rocky with coral (cut up my foot, not bad but it takes a while to heal). Its amazing to be swimming and run into a school of little blue fish- it tickles. The salt water takes some getting used to also. Im always amazed at God's beauty when I leave the base and see both the mountains and the beautiful clean ocean and its waves. We have a fiafia night again tonite to say goodbye to the Cook Island YWAM team that has been here on outreach the past month. After that we will do some evangelizing in town. I went to a friends house the past Sunday (After going to the Fijian church again and Yes, there was another REALLY long prayer to begin the service) and I am forgetting some of the cultural 'civilization' things like walls on the homes. Ha... or a fan that runs with electricity. Or the sound of a landline phone. Its too funny. I will have more culture shock going home that coming here I think. People here are getting ready for the SPG which is the South Pacific Games, a bit like the Olympics but of course smaller scale. We wll be on outreach for most of it but hope to catch the end. I can imagine the tourism! Please be continuing to pray for our leaders as they are preparing to transition into outreach and local groups (Malakai will stay back with a group of students also to do outreach on the island) . Also Malakai's health has not been good so please remember him in prayer! Ill do some more updating next week! I feel I am always squeezed for time! And not just in using the internet!! ~alissa

Friday

So change of plans for Hong Kong since funds aren't coming in: We will be going to Australia!! We will do some performances there and try to fundraise and if enough money comes in than they will also take a team from Australia to Hong Kong. Play it by ear and listen to God's voice!! Im excited to see Australia but more importantly Im excited that more people might be able to go!

I have decided to commit to staying on as a DTS staff for next school year (Lord please provides the funds), meaning I would stay another five months and help staff the next school. Now that Malakai, my leader knows Im most likely committing to another school he feels a bit freer to share some of the ins and outs of the base and also his own leadership so its been good to support each other on that level and not just student/leader. I think I could contribute in the interpersonal/counseling/sheparding area. Plus I am going to get the benefit of sitting in on classes again!! For now must focus on our outreach time. The next few weeks will be learning to songs, skits etc... practicing testimonies and all that jazz. Im sure even with going to Australia some of the Samoan students won't be able to go because their lecture fees aren't paid.

We have a student picnic tomrrow to celebrate the end of classes so will probably have some more pictures to put up next week. Still LOVE it here but miss everyone back home.
Yesterday Ameto, a fellow student, threw a baby lizard on my lap DURING CLASS. We had a nice long discussion about how I can offer forgiveness to him but still need time to trust him again. AHHH!

Monday

The few precious moments I get and my email is not working!! This week is heavy duty lectures, our last week with a morning session with Hank from New Zealand and then afternoon and evening sessions with Pastor Levi, a Samoan preaching on the fear of God. Its a lot:) Hong Kong is in a couple week and fundraising has been really tough. There has been a lack of support for many students and right now there isn't even a leader with enough funds to go. Ive been praying that Malakai, our DTS leader can be freed to go. Also praying for my fellow student Akuila as he does not have much left to raise. If not enough funds are raised typically students do outreach here locally. Right now I think I am the only one with every thing raised! So IF YOU CAN HELP... please now is the time- its only about 2000 american dollards for the full two months in Hong Kong including air fare. If so please call my parents so they can money transfer or email me .
Everything continues to be beautiful here. We had 'Umu' again yesterday, the outdoor oven. It was yummy- I will miss that when I leave. Maybe more info next week. Am adding just a few more pictures right now- look under last blog.

SAVAII PICTURES

More to come but here is a quick link for this week:

http://s210.photobucket.com/albums/bb20/alissa25_2007/


(Under 'subalbums', 'Savaii')

Wedn- fundraisers!

Quick update, hope to work on pictures today. Had a good week- things too hectic with schedule on Sat so didnt get in. We had another fia fia night which turned out fantastic, its like hosting a big block party. Then the next morning we were up at 4am to get the chicken roti going to sell (which also turned out fantastic). On Sunday I was able to attend the Fijian church and since one of the staff, Semi, was preaching we also did a song (so I got to participate since it was one of ours that we performed at the fiafia night!). They were gracious and fed us afterwards also. Even though I didnt understand a thing it was cool, they sang accapella, and were all very nice. We did another fundraiser (as you can see the time for Hong Kong is fast approaching) and we worked at a plantation all day, in the rain! It was a beautiful land, and our main job was picking up and sorting coconuts, branches, and cutting grass. We got to make fresh lemonade from their lemon tree and I tried about three new fruits. While I was working, it was so beautiful and 'islandish' that I started thinking maybe I was in 'Jurassic Park' and was waiting for the purr of a dinasour creeping up behind me!

Savai

Jennifer and my trip to savai was wonderful! We caught the small ferry at 6am and while it wasn't as comfortable and smooth it was nice to get tehre early. onasai and silosi woke up to drive us in the van and onasai got us on the ferry just on time. I got a bit seasick towards the end and since i hadn't really been on a ferry before I chose to look at the ground ( I now know that fixing on a future point helps more). I was praying for gods steadfastness and to calm the seas and the waves of my stomach. I prayed "lord I want to be a good witness to represent both you and the YWAM base so please dont let this palagi throw up over the side of the boat". HA~ When we got there we went to the market which is about half the size of the one in Apia but its set about the same with fruits, fresh fresh, etc... We got some fruit for breakfast and got on the bus. it took us about one hour to get to the village of Manasse where the fales were. We stayed with the Family Ministry team that had formally been on our base. Its called Janes Fale and has about 16 fales along the beach; jennifer and I shared one. Savai is incredible with such variety in the land- beautiful beaches, lushious green trees, there was some hard black lava areas.... There were a lot of horses, something we dont see too often near Apia. The beach was quiet, clean... it rained most of the day on Saturday but mainly just drizzling so we got to go swimming, walking on the beach etc. the sunset was breathtaking but the sunrise was even better. Ill HAVE TO get my pictures up. Ive never seen anything like it. Besides our team there was only two other couples and as I walked down the beach i didnt see another soul even though it looked like there were a few other places like Janes with guest fales. The people that own the place served us a wonderful dinner and breakfast (included in the cheap price). I plan on going back. Listening to the waves while falling asleep is so soothing; waking up to a rooster under our fale at five oclock is not!! Maybe God wanted us up for the sunrise though.... There is a place nearby where we can swim with sea turtles but since we didnt have the time it will be saved for next time. We also heard there is a beautiful waterfall that we will have to catch. On our way back on Sunday we saw the monument built for the first missionary on the island (i think john williams?). ON saturday night since it was the family ministries last time together they had their own fiafia night and performed their dances one last time, had birthday cake for two little girls, and the boys did fire dancing (an excellent job by the way). At the airport it was hard to say goodbye but I am so excited for where God is taking each family. It was a blessing for Jenn and I to be included with them and it was so restful and much needed. On the base we have one month left before outreach so we are focusing on fundraising. We will do another fiafia night on Friday with dances and testimonies and maybe one skit. On saturday morning we are doing our second round of Roti (chicken indian style) that is a big hit even though we have to get up at 4 am in the morning (we managed fabulous team work last time!). I am going to try to go the Fijian church on Sunday even though it is all in Fijian, most of the Fijians on base go there and this week they get to lead it. What an experience!! "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." -- John 14:27

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Saturday

Today the town is busy busy.... probably because with Mothers Day the dinner tomorrow will be huge!
Well our team is off and running and we performed last night for a Youth for Christ rally , dancing one Fijian song. Everyone says we did well- i did one mess up but its all for Gods glory right? Me ? Dancing? Crazyiness... The Samoans here are just so talented musically, I was impressed with the other performances. It finally stopped raining a bit so I got to air out some of my clothes. We had a comment from the Family Ministry team here from New Zealand, they were saying that typically you have good accomidations with on the YWAM base, and then tougher ones while you are on your outreach. For us they feel that the trial is here on the base (with the heat, sometimes no water etc) and when we have our outreach in Hong Kong it will be better conditions. Praise God :) Updates from last post: our water turned back on right away, some miscommunication with the land and water regulators. Also, we have a new used van that is getting ready so we will have two transportations options in the near future.
The staff are beginning to do prayer walks/meetings every evenings to really 'protect' us and the base and I feel so blessed that the leaders are taking initiative to bring everything before God. Next week's speaker is a lady from American Samoa. I am hoping to visit Savai, the next island over, next weekend but have yet to get the okay from our leader. I hear its even more beautiful than here which is hard to imagine. Last night at the performance i was walked around saying 'fia moi' and 'fia aie' which means i am tired and I am hungry. (we didnt get dinner until after- around 10 pm).
We have a big 'fiafia' night tonite, typically done to say goodbyes or celebrations. This is for the New Zealand Family Ministries team that will be leaving on Monday and also as an opportunities to fundraise. We should do about five dance songs. Um, Ill have to let you know how that goes on Wedn!

Wedn May 9

Is that the date? HAPPY MOTHERS DAY a bit early. Im such a jerk and missed my mom's birthday so a big shout out to mom!
So many transitions/changes to talk about for our base .Its actually been a tough week for everyone. Its the third day its rained and remember we live in fales so everything gets damp and we just wait for a sunny day to lay out EVERYTHING. Also, we have lost water and it wont be restored for another two days at least so needless to say everything is being used sparingly and some are getting cranky :) Its been tough financially for the base this month, our van broke down and we had some expenses there. We are stretching for our food money. And for some reason we always run out of toilet paper. I dont know though if thats a financial thing or thats just the concept of buying in bulk that isn't being used. Another leadership change is around the corner with Sio, our base leader, being offered an opportunity to be at YWAM in Australia, he should be here another month.
On good notes our speakers are great again this week and we've been talking about worldviews, some over the islanders heads and also family units. We are also preparing to share our four dances on Saturday (we've already done one dance at the local prison). I shared another sermonette this morning about anger and for some unfortunate reason it was much needed. I just feel everyone is feeling the strain since it is half way through the program and I dont doubt that the devil wants to discourage us. We are making lavalavas to sell for fundraising and they are beautiful. We have such talented and creative artists on base (um myself not included, Im just happy to keep up with the dances).
Last night Atu took my small group out for Ice cream (freedom! Im only allowed out at night for our evangelism night so it was a treat). Instead of ice cream though I was craving root beer so I got two cans :) We then walked along the sea wall and prayed. We also prayed infront of their governement building which has NO security... its so different. I guess Samoa is quite a bit safer. Another thing they don't really understand here is nursing homes . I tried explaining it in class as a cross between and apartment and a hospital but for older people. The culture here just puts so much respect on our elders (we should all learn from this!) so its hard for them to imagine their grandparents not living with them or their uncles.
I will try to get back in on Saturday but since we are performing Im not sure... im never sure really. My new moto is 'ote le loa, I just do what Im told' which means ' I dont know, I just do what Im told". Ha! Praise God. I pray this finds you healthy, peaceful and joyful. Many loves....

Saturday

I see the blog isn't working so well! Ha! Sorry about that... Ill have to take a better look on Wedn. I think the only thing I really talked about in the blog for Tuesday was describing the bus ride in with a woman who brought her chicken with her. Ha! Nothing surprises me anymore. Ive been sick all this week but Im feeling much better. Stomach pains like crazy. Went to the public doctor on Monday and he prescribed three medicines: So by Tues evening I was getting worse instead of better and feeling nauseous (I only made it to two days of class this week). So Wed morning I told them I needed to go back to the "hospital" (any trip to the doctor is to the hospital). Sio is back now, the base leader, and he made a point to remind me to never hesitate if I need to see the doctor and he told me to go the private one. This doctor told me that the medicines from Monday were being counteractive . So I got the right ones and am now back up. It was really frustrating to miss out not only on class time , but eating time together, small group, outreach preparation, work duty... EVERYTHING!! Everyone was really supportive while I was sick, especially Atunia, she was worried about me. For some reason the the DTS staff didn't check in with me so I told malachi that was aproblem cause it left me disconnected....The boys especially were worried and now that Im better they are being overprotective and not even letting me take my own plate to the kitchen :) I keep telling them my energy is back but it may take a few days for them to believe it. So in other news I really feel God is opening up new doors with my relationship with God. Ive been talking with Malachai and Sova, two of my leaders. Its really hearing God through prayer and getting verses for other people. I told Malachi that I feel its so new I dont always know what to do with it, like feeling a burden/or weight to pray for someone or against something. Please be praying God continues to speak and confirm for me. This week we went to the local prison to do our dances and testimonies to encourage them. Its funny because the inmates get to go home on weekends!! And they allow them to work the land with machetes! Doesn't this seem odd? Because we are on such a small island, and people typically dont have a lot of money, its not like they have anywhere to run. We danced a Fijian 'Meke' and its so much fun! We are learning some new ones now too. Yesterday we got coconuts ready to make a mixture and sell this morning (Sat) at a nearby village to raise money to go to Hong Kong. We had to climb the tree (okay not me), crack them on this huge stick, take out the milk and the inside, squeeze it, cook it with sugar, corn starch balls (like tapioca) and everyone loves it. We are also starting to make 'lavalavas' (skirts with local designs) to sell for outreach also. Its fun seeing the students and staff pull together as a team. Everyone gets along so well, praise God! Its one of the first really rainy days today, all day long its been raining. Glad my laundry is done and not hanging on the line (I think about those things now). Some funny Samoan sayings: From Onasai: "I cant eat any more cocoa rice or my stomach running away from me". From Atunia "My mind is broken". From Jenn, the other American- instead of saying "Menua le po" which means good night, she said "Menua le povi" which means good cow! Malachai will wrapping up our praise and worship time "Now before I waste any more of MY time lets pray". Too funny. I hope to get some actual pictures up soon, Ill keep trying to come up with solutions! "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." -- John 14:27

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Prayer Letter

Viia le Atua (Praise God)! Blessings from the beautiful island of Upolu in Western Samoa! Im so excited to be able to touch base with you again and give praises to God for getting me here safely and providing for each step I've taken. I'd also like to include you on what is currently happening as we students plan our 'outreach' phase starting the end of June. First of all thanks to God for what He's done, what He is doing, and what He plans to do the next few months. As David says in 2 Chronicles 29 "Praise be to you, O Lord, God of our Father Israel, from everlasting to everlasting. Yours, O Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is Yours. Yours , O Lord, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all. Wealth and honor come from you; you are ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name." As I begin to tell you about our preparations for an outreach to Hong Kong I want to introduce you to my fellow students, our 'team'. As I do I request that you pray for each individual. I also am so excited about what God is doing through our base, the YWAM base of Samoa, and am offering you the opportunity to hear from God and be a part of what He is doing. Please consider and pray about if God may be prompting you to support one of the students in need. Many are struggling to finish paying their lecture fees and are discouraged about asking God for more, 3000 american dollars, for the outreach to Hong Kong. In the past, if one cannot pay the fees, they stay in Samoa and do outreaches to the local churches and schools. My heart is for the islanders, from Samoa and Fiji, to share in this opportunity to see a glimpse of the outside world and experience what it means to serve another culture. It's also a great witness to have Fijians and Samoans serving side by side. Many Samoans come from large families and so funds are limited. One man can work a full day of eight hours and only earn 20 talas (10 dollars) for the whole day. What a blessing that with those wages God provides food from their land! All that to say I am encouraged by their recent saying : " God is able so if we are available than anything is possible." May they believe that, and may God help us with our unbelief as He takes care of us and prepares us for the outreach phase. My team: Nuu - from Samoa. Grew up in a Catholic Samoan church and still attends on Sundays with his family. He is only 16 years old and already feels a calling to minister to people. During the past three weeks we have already seen him admit to pride and begin to gain confidence in his public speaking abilities. Ameto- from Samoa. His family lives over one hour away but comes to visit him every Sunday. His older sisters are in Australia and New Zealand and he longs to follow in their steps by visiting other countries. How awesome is God? When Ameto came to the base he was not a christian. He understand that the Bible was important but after hearing one of our leader's testimony, he admitted he had never understand that God was calling him to a personal relationship where he could pray directly to God, and that the reason he could do this was because Jesus came to cancel all of his bad things/attitudes. PRAISE GOD! He loves to laugh, dance, sing and play the guitar. Vinepa- from Samoa. Comes from a very large family. She is only 16 years old also and has become everyone's little sister. She is learning english so quickly and has been moved to tears a couple of occasions this last week as she recognizes areas that God wants to heal in her family. She is postponing finishing her high school because her desire is to know Jesus more. Solopoi- from Samoa, the town of Apia. Is 18 years old and formally was known as one of Apia's 'street kids'. After getting in trouble with the law he met Pafelio, the base leader, and committed to serving God last year on the base. He left and went back to his old ways until he had enough. He is a true example of a broken man before God and has such a heart to reach those who are homeless or the many street kids. He also loves to dance, and every time he preaches you can hear how humble God has made him as he rejoices in what God has done for him. I started with those four because they are the ones considered 'native' who are learning english and excited about serving the Samoan people but also about doing missions work across the world. We have many laughs over learning the Samoans way. One of their favorite sayings is "God will use my broken english to heal broken hearts". AMEN!! Can you see all that God has done so far?? Thats why Im excited to ask you to pray for each one and if possible, help financially support their decisions to leave their old life and open doors to God's way. The other students include: Akuila- 23 years old from Fiji. He has shared over the last week that he was raised by his grandparents and until just this past month did not realize how much unforgiveness he has towards his parents. His parents currently live in Samoa so he has an opportunity to reconnect and set a new standard for their relationship. He has been an inspiration to me in his honesty and desire to fight through where God wants Him to be. Akuila is gifted in dance and choreography and also as an artist . Leti- 32 years old from Fiji. Leti's husband, Silosi , did his DTS last year and is currently one of our leaders. Leti has had to leave her family and her career to follow God and she is seeing the blessings despite the hard times. We call her 'mammi' and she brings much wisdom to the group. Praise God that her outreach fees are taken care of already from support from her church. The last two are myself, and Jenn the other American. We both worked and saved before coming to our DTS and have experienced such generous support from our friends, coworkers, and churches. We currently are not in need of financial support BUT we are always in need of prayers for our protection and for God to be speaking to us. So now I simply ask that you lift up these students in your prayers. Please allow a few days to see if God leads you to give anything financially, either to the group as a whole or to an individual. I am confident that God wants each one of you to participate in the lives of these people that He is building up- even if its across the world. If you do feel led to give support, please send a check or money order to my parents as they will transfer the money directly to YWAM, to the care of whichever individual you prefer. Please make out the checks to Pat Kennedy (its not tax deductible since it is considered a school cost -due to visa requirements) Pat Kennedy 2798 130th Drive Belmond, IA 50421 Many blessings from Samoa! I will be praying and fasting the next couple weeks (dont worry- only fasting for one day at a time) as I expect God to speak directly to each of you.

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Tuesday April 24

Saturday, April 21

Didnt make it into town on Wed- too busy! Things are still great. They still haven't let me do my own laundry because everytime I walk over and start the water someone is right beside me taking over :)
We have more people on base now, a team from New Zealand, about four families athat are doing a family ministry with their chilren for five weeks. They did a couple of seminars for us students but normally we dont see them often. They do seem to be having a harder time adjusting to the culture and food than me and Jenn. I mean, they dont even like the cocoa rice which is a treat to us!! Right now two of our leaders, Atu and Sio are at a conference in australia and so the team is really pulling together well to keep everything running. Sometimes its hard to remember I am a student and I need to let the base staff take care of things.

Our last work duty I discovered a whole new section of our small plantation that had pineapple!! So they cut me one and I had fresh pineapple, yum. That was after I watched the boys chase after the mouse with their machetes, and of course the mouse had to run my way, causing me to scream, and then of course get made fun of for about fifteen minutes! I still have a hard time trusting those machetes swinging through the air. They do the job well but I can just picture my little toe missing one day.
This weeks' speaker was incredible- a man from Samoa who is now living in Hawaii. He has such a gift and has met with me one on one a few times. He wrote for each student, before he met us, a 'letter' from God with reminders and also a bible verse for each of us. My bible verse is Romans 8:14-18:
"...because those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, "Abba,Father." The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory. I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. " Many encouraging and edifying words spoken this week. We also had a bonfire yesterday and were asked to write a list of what satan stole from us (whether through our own choices or others) and place it in the fire, asking God to give us what we are lacking. It was a lot of leaving the 'old life'... especially for two that comes from the streets.
We start street evangelism next week which will be interesting for sure. We will go in teams, with at least one Samoan in the bunch to translate if needed

We have a new dog on the base. Its a stray dog and of course the boys have such tender hearts they keep feeding him so he's stayed. Right now he goes by the name 'gangsta' (I know, i know...) I met with a Samoan family in town last week and one of the boys was asking me if I knew famous people like Tom Cruise, Beyonce. When I said no he said 'why not?'. I explained how big America is (not like Apia where you know most of the families) and also explained the concept of security guards. Ha! Bless his heart.
Okay one more story- so Thursday was NOT my day. I was sitting in class, whichis an open fale, when a lizard pooped right on my skirt! He must have been climbing on the roof branches. AND THEN... later that night when I was talking to Pine, the speaker, and my leader Malakai in the guest fale, a bird pooped on me! What was going on??? I guess I was a target! Really though, id rather that than the lizard running up my leg again. Or that mouse... sometimes I wonder if they get in the fale at night when we are sleeping.

I guess i have two other updates-
I got sick this week for the first time (only one day). Its humbling because there is NO privacy so I constantly have people saying 'alissa - you okay?' while I am trying to sleep..... Its nice because some prayed over me but Im used to shutting myself in my house with the cell phone off until I feel better. Three people went down to the next village to get me crackers and sprite. God is teaching me to see their hearts and not complain. Praise God for his healing.
The other update- we are starting to see tht some of the students are having some trouble raising funds. God totally blew us away this week and we started praying and two days later had 500 tala (250american dollars)... we know God will be faithful to provide but some are starting to get anxious. Im thankful that my fees are paid off right now ... praise God. Thanks for all your encouraging emails and thoughts! Im sure more stories next time! (I think we get to visit the prison in another four weeks or so)

Saturday

Wow the past few days have really flown by......Did I mention the Samoans are so beautiful?!? Ha! Today Im in town again, its a joke now on base that everytime we have the opportunity to leave the base I take it! (FREEDOM) I think after this Ill go the market (i like going even if not buying anything), then go to the sea wall (I hear its beautiful, on the ocean) and then another rugby game!! Pack it all in! Ive been playing volleyball everyday, trying to understand the game of rugby as I watch the boys play, and doing work duties after class. That usually includes pulling weeds, planting taro and pumpkin, moving plants, painting etc... Yesterday we joked because as we were planting we found two cell phones- Onasai, one of our leaders, was up in the coconut tree getting us some to drink and his phones had dropped :) Can I just say one thing that still makes me nervous is the boys using the machetes... okay maybe two boys in particular. I have to remember that they've been using them since they were kids.
I found a new kind of bug yesterday- it looks like a catapillar with pinchers and apparently, per the natives, I would have to go the hospital and 'no sleeping all day and all night'. Didn't sound good so Ill avoid them! The boys painted the girls bathroom the other day - um bright orange and blue. The Samoans like to use color.
We learned our first dance yesterday!! Im actually getting it even though it probably doesn't look as smooth as though that have been dancing for their life! Even Jenn, the other American, has some dance experience. Really guys- me?? Dancing?? Ha! Its one area where people have to be patient with me!

We have an incredible speaker that is in for next week. He is from Samoa, now living in Hawai and Ive heard excellent things about him- he already has a great sense of humor. I find that living here makes me laugh more and joke around more- thats the Samoan way. Yesterday Finn, one of the boys on staff from Samoa gave a brief sermon and it was such a blessing. About how sometimes we forget we are in a race, and that its just starting for us students. But the coolest part is that he did it all in english!! Six months ago when he came to YWAM he didn't speak any english. Its inspiring really...
I think today I will buy a little hand fan, its much needed. Whenever I come to town I get stared at, because Im white, and it used to bother me but now Im used to it-more opportunities to smile at people. I have to remember that I not only represent the YWAM base but also America while I am here. I feel very cared for though because every time Im here in town we run into one of the boys from the base and they end up spending the rest of the day with us and getting us back to the base safely.
Oh another bus story- for the first time, on my way home on Wedn, we were in a crowded bus. In America, typically, people just do their own thing. If anything they give up their seat for a lady, or elderly person. Here, if a man comes on the bus, he taps someone and out of respect they move over and sit on someone's lap. So you have complete strangers sitting on each other! Jenn had to sit on our fellow student's lap, Ameto, because of that - Poi and I were laughing at them. Finally Jenn came over and sat on my lap because it was abit less akward that on a guys lap. We were strongly warned by the boys not to sit on strangers laps (good old common sense) and that since we were 'palangis' they probably wouldn't make us. No one stands on the bus even though there is a bar they could use.
Today before I left they were getting the outside stones ready to cook chicken. To make money for the travel part of our school we do fundraising (especially for the Samoan students who often can't afford it). They then go into town and sell it, typically to the outside workers like construction workers.
I just need to take a minute to praise god for my health, again ! And also for running water! Im sure Im forgetting some stories but thats all for now folks... hopefully more on Wedn (that reminds me, I think I give my second sermonette on Wedn morning- thinking of doing it on Isaiah 50 where God questions why we doubt Him, is he not able??) ! Thanks for all your emails! alkennedy@excite.com