New and "New-ay" (Niue)

We are going to Niue.

web photo
 Just before the Christmas and the "New" Year, on December 24, we got a call from President Walker with a "new" temporary transfer...to serve on the Island of of Niue ("New-ay").  We have some time until our next semester at Uni begins in late February, and with Elder Sessions' accident on Niue and their release to go home, they need a couple to serve there until a "new" senior couple is called.

 Niue (means "behold the coconut") is one of the smallest (around 1500 people on the island) independent nations in the world and one of the largest raised coral atolls on earth. 
   We think we will be there about 6 weeks.  
We are not sure if we will be able to send a BLOG for a month or two from Niue because of the small and pricey internet there.  I guess we will all find out but if you don't hear from us in awhile we are still here...just quiet for a time.
We leave tomorrow morning (Saturday December 29).

 A few other photos
 We were asked to speak at a "Come and See" missionary fireside last Sunday.  Some of our wonderful YSA.
 The Guy YSA's.  Love 'em all!
 The Pereira's invited us over for Christmas dinner...Rickie and Larissa Pereira
 Two young Elders jointed us too.   

Elder Garrett trying his "new" taste of Kina.

 Rickie went out diving and brought some fresh caught Snapper and still wiggling Kina for Christmas dinner.  It was time for us to try it.  Tastes just like the ocean it comes from, very salty.  Not a big fan.

 Taro, raw fish salad, and Kina for Christmas dinner, but also familiar turkey, ham, dressing as well.
On our walk.
 Funny new creatures on this fan shell...always some 'New" creatures attached
 New Monarch just out of the cocoon.  Lots coming out now in New Zealand 
A "New" day...

Someday we will try to document all the great blessings and Hand of the Lord that is filling our lives and hearts right now.  From family to mission and everything in between.  
We both KNEW before the President called us to go to Niue that we would be going there.  
Pretty sweet experience.

The Lord's Hand is so clear in our lives.  He has a plan and every "new" turn proves He is in charge.
We love Him and His work!
And we love you.
Hope all your "New" is good...from your new year 
to your new challenges, blessings and adventures.
We love you!

Elder and Sister Downs
Vance and Louenda

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