SEARCHING FOR ARITFACTS

As most of you know the islands of Chuuk were a hot spot during World War II. There are many artifacts from that war that lie at the bottom of the ocean as well as on many of the islands here in Chuuk. You will find them on Moen, Tonoas, in the Mortulock islands and some of the smaller islands here in the lagoon. 

We set out to see some of the cannons in the caves just above our home. The young Chuukese boys said that it was going to be about a 10 minute walk up the hill. I guess their 10 minutes translates into 45 minutes or longer. We left about 1:30 in the afternoon and didn't return until 4:30 or so. I call it a walk but it was a moderate to difficult hike to the top. But the views and terrain was beautiful and enjoyable to take in. 

Once to the top we had a great view looking over the lagoon and explored a large cave system left behind by the Japanese army. The boys encouraged us to go to the top, but after surveying the terrain we decided best to be happy with what we saw and return back down the mountain side. It was a great day with many stories to tell.

We Begin.

Our fearless leaders.

Aaron finding his way out of the weeds.

We stumble across the caves.

The natives are restless!

Garypo and his two birds.

On the way back down. Do you like Kathleen's
hiking outfit?

FONAU (Fono)

During Aaron and Christy's stay we planned a service trip to the island of Fonau. You can check our May 2012 post, which was the last time this territory was worked. We had a very kind reception from the Mayor and the Village Chief. Both welcomed our work and allowed us to spend the whole day preaching in their villages. Everyone, almost everyone, warmly welcomed our visit. (Except the man who Aaron talked to who said "he was busy building his Church.") 

There is a population of about 400 on this small island close to Moen. There were six of us all together and we were able to cover the island in one day. Afterwards we made a short trip for a quick swim, in service clothes, on a small picnic island they call Pissiwi.

Searching for the Mayor & Village Chief.

The island of Fono.

Met on shore by a boy and his bird.

Immediately met by the locals wanting magazines.

Kathleen calling on a woman.

Lunch time!

Very attentive!

Basketball Chuukese style.

Our service group for the day.

A view of Moen from Fono.

Fun on Pissiwi! Swimming in Service Clothes.

Good Times

Aaron & Christy
PS - Christy I posted it in a higher resolution just for you.

Last week we had our friends come to visit from Guam. Meet the Suttons, who moved to Guam in 2009 from Salem, Oregon. During our many travels through Guam they kindly had us stay with them, including a two week stay for Pioneer School back in 2012.  We have been anticipating their visit for some time now and thoroughly enjoyed having them here for a little more than a week. (Not long enough) It was an awesome time in service and exploring the wonderful things here in Chuuk. More to come from their stay........ But here they are upon their arrival and on to Truk Stop for Sun-downers and the sunset!

Drinks at Truk Stop Hotel