Trip to American Samoa, Part 1

This week, we were able to visit American Samoa.  It required a short 35 minute  airplane trip from the island of Upolu where we live to the island of Tutuila.  We went over to train the missionaries and help prepare for the new mission president and his family. We rode on this tiny little plane, which had six rows with three tiny seats in each row. I am not sure how some of the "larger" Samoan bodies folded themselves up to fit; it was a pretty tight squeeze for Mike and I! But what a gorgeous view as we got ready to land!

Here we are with the Webbs, on the left who are the office couple in Tutuila and the Eves on the right. Mike had a leaf he was fighting with...can you tell?

This is one of the many boats that are in the harbor.  Everything that comes to this island comes through this port.

What a spectacular view! When the tsunami hit in September 2009, they say that the huge wave pounded up on the shores of the island and, having no place to go afterwards, it bounced back and forth again and again!

Out in the ocean you can see a tiny island. They call them flower pots. And, down on the beach there are two open air beach fales. Yes...we live in Paradise.

Below, is what is known as the cock's comb. There are so many chickens and roosters in Samoa. It is only fitting to have a small island named after one.

The vegetation is thick and lush.

A better view of the flower pot.

Tuna fishing and processing is a big industry on this island.  Starkist Tuna has a big plant here.  It provides many jobs for the local people.  I'm sure glad we don't live downwind.

Look at these cute little buses! They are made from a Toyota base with the passenger seats up above. Mike wants to ride in one with the Webbs. I volunteer to take the picture.

This is the end of part one. More to follow.