Update and Images from Vanuatu Disaster Relief Effort

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Here the Chief of Lonapaiu is presenting me with a bow and arrow. Steven said it is a big honor, and something the tribe gives to their men to designate them as warriors and protectors of their village. It was a big honor for me.

Chief Jeffery and I saying goodbye. I’m really going to miss seeing him and my new friends here. He presented me with a Chief walking staff.

Each of the villagers came up to shake hands, say thank and good bye. They are among the friendliest and most grateful people I have ever met.

At Lowetal, they all started walking up and placing things on the ground, mostly mats and chickens…as gifts. It was very interesting and made me feel great because they have so little.

Here are my chickens. We are still trying to figure out what we are going to do with them.

In Vanuatu they are called “Flying Fox”- all of the boys and men hunt them by throwing sticks at them. They cook them and eat them regularly and it is a normal part of their culture. There was a suggestion made that I should have a taste, but we had to leave before it was finished. Whew! I have seen a few much bigger than this one.

2 of the tribes had farewell ceremonies for me today, I was given all kinds of tribute gifts, including chickens. x5 afterwards they had a huge meal prepared with “the last of the food from before the storm”. They are an amazingly beautiful and kind people.

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Sarah CHEDORGE-PARIS on 04.23.2015 at 2:40 am

Hi !
I love your photo about food.
I can see that you also had some moving farewells … Sarah

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Update and Images from Vanuatu Disaster Relief Effort

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