Have a cup of tea.

My last few nights spent in New Zealand have been absolutely wonderful. I have been blessed with the hospitality of the Lagis, a Fijian family living in Mt. Wellington who have given me a bed to sleep in, food to eat, and their fellowship.

Here is an example of the rest that I have experienced here.

The night before last, Atu (who I had met on the plane from Fiji) and I went for an 8:00 p.m. swim in Mission Bay. The water was surprisingly warm and as we waited for Sam (another friend) to join us, we relaxed in the gentle waves and talked about life and the sea. By 9:30 we were sitting down for dinner with Auntie Frances, (Atu's wonderful wife), and Esther, their beautiful daughter. Our meal was wonderful. Together, we talked and laughed while enjoying steamed trevalli cooked in coconut milk and spinach leaves, which was served over white rice with a sprinkling of fresh lemon over the top. With taro (a root) and a juice that some laughed at but was really quite good, we ate our fill and finished with a cup of tea and some songs. As I have learned, you cannot have breakfast, lunch, or dinner with a large cup of tea and some biscuits on the side.

"Take me to Fiji!" I proclaimed as I finished our tasty dinner. "I do not know if I will be able to eat American food again."

Thank you Atu, Auntie Frances, and Esther. Thank you Sam. Thank you Tuk, Selena, Kano, and Ellie. And of course I thank the rest of the Streams' Community for your support and prayers. I would not have wanted to start this journey in any other way. Know that you are so loved. I will never forget my time in New Zealand or your hospitality.

I will make it to Fiji yet!