Friday was the last day for 5 of
our group. Kristies week at the library concluded with gifts, hugs, tea, cake,
photos and a request to come back. Peter and Trudy observed athletics day and a
show about whales put on by the Juniors which included “We all live in the
yellow submarine” Barbara and Yuri also got gifts and cards had dancing &
singing and a highlight for Yuri was being able to ride to school on the back
of a truck. Fran also got to have a ride on the back of a bike by Engia the
principal. Fran, and Carol enjoyed the junior kids assembly. Joyce had a half a
day and met Kristie at Trader Jacks for Lunch. Yolanda did the cross island
walk with Pa.
We all got dressed up for our
farewell dinner at the Tamarind House, got a group photo and tucked into our
delicious entrees, mains and desserts. A surprise was in store for us. One of
Debis and James’ friends who was waitressing for a special guest and her party,
mentioned to the PA of the special guest that there were some fellow countrymen
who were volunteers from the States. Our table was approached by the PA and
Joyce took the initiative to talk to her and tell her a little about who we
were. The PA said that she would mention us to Hilary Clinton and from that
mention we were advised that we could stop by and meet with the secretary of
state. And that is what we did. Hilary was very gracious to us and shook hands
with us all and chatted briefly with the team and then suggested that we have a
photo together. She was very calm and relaxed and it was a treat for us all to
spend a few moments with her.
Saturday dawned beautiful but rain
was to come. Some attended the market while Yolanda splashed out on a day trip
to Aitutaki. In the Afternoon a group of the team attended Te Vara Nui Cultural
experience. It included a history lecture, a medicine hut, sacred stones, a
talk about fishing and fish nets, a costume hut and coconut demonstrations. 2
stayed on for dinner and the rest returned to pack and our last catered dinner.
As 5 leave us, four remain for the last week.
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