One Week Down

Bula Bula Bula!

After more than a week in Fiji I am officially LOVING it. There is so much to see and do and even if things are not going according to plan all I have to do is look around, remember the beautiful place that I'm in, and realize how lucky I am to be here. The five hour boat ride up to the Yasawas was absolutely gorgeous. All the islands look like paradise and the sand is as white as can be with turquoise water washing it's shore. I spent my first week on the project getting used to the parts of Education and Construction that I will become a part of. Everything seems organized but laid back and I'm starting to take on more responsibilities, which is good. I have a room to myself and fall asleep quickly every night listening to the waves wash up on shore. School is so much fun and all the kids are so enthusiastic about learning. We have set up multiple vegetable patches which will serve for education, nutrition, and economic purposes. Everyone is very excited about the newly constructed composting toilets at school as well which will serve many environmental purposes. Day's of the week are busy and full of excitement and to be honest I'm excited for Monday tomorrow. The weekend's are incredibly relaxing as everyone is able to let loose, lay on the beach, and visit the resorts. I'm pretty much in paradise. Last night some of us went across island to take part in a traditional lovo (underground oven). The locals dig a hole in the ground and place warm rocks inside, meat and vegetables are then placed on top covered with palm leaves and sand. The food is then steamed from the heat and an incredible feast of smoked foods ensues. It was absolutely delicious and the festivities continued late into the night.

Just in terms of a general update I'm doing really well and love the people I'm with. The only annoying thing is the mosquitoes but I'm even getting used to those now. I really am loving this incredible experience. For those trying to send me facebook messages I really appreciate it but the internet I get here is not quite good enough to read them. Please instead email me at hmarshall08@hotmail.com ... and Jenna, Steph and Pat.. if you could re-message me on there I would REALLY appreciate it. Love you all!

xo H