Saturday, September 18, 2010

Hello from Samoa!


We are in Samoa! After a whirlwind training session, I am taking a very quick break to post a couple of pictures. I am having a hard time finding the pictures I want to use...they are in the computer somewhere, I am just not sure where! These few will have to do for now.

This was taken right after we cleared customs and were greeted by the Mission President, his wife and the Bells. On the left is Sister Bell, who is training me to be her replacement. On the right is Sister Haleck, the mission president's wife. I have been told (since then) that she does not like having her picture taken. So much for making a good first impression!


Our first look at Samoa, through the window of the airplane. Pretty exciting for us!








This is the front room of the apartment we are living in until the Bells move out. Very nice...except...





...these are our room mates! Each morning when we get up and each evening when we return home there are several to greet us. Yes. I have nightmares...and say my prayers while kneeling on the bed...and take very short showers...and sometimes wonder if I will survive 18 months with them.






We are standing in front of the Apia Samoa temple, with President Haleck. The temple is in the same complex as our apartment. It takes about 30 seconds to walk to the grounds, 2 minutes to get to the front steps where this picture was taken. Paradise.







President Haleck with Elder Lokeni, the first missionary I officially welcomed to Samoa. He is from Utah...Salt Lake area I believe.
That's all for now. I know it is hard to believe, but it took me about an hour to get this much. Time to do get back to mission duties! Love you all! Sister Merrell








3 comments:

Annie said...

Mom, I didn't know you had cockroaches! I should have expected that, though. Horrifying! You know no one feels for you more than I do.

I'm glad we finally got to see some pictures. I hope you'll post more when you get a chance.

Stevenson Ventures said...

Linda and Mike,
We love hearing your stories and adventures. Got to love those roommates! If you see one you know there are 100 others you don't see:) Sandee

Babzanne Barker said...

Wonderful to see all these pictures and hear about some of your adventures so far. You are going to love Samoa and they are going to love you!