I received a text from Kathy on Wednesday asking what was I going to be doing on the American Thanksgiving - Thursday. She was celebrating it with family in Oregon. I quickly realized that it was already Thursday in Samoa. I was one day ahead of her so I should be celebrating now - not tomorrow.
It had been raining off and on in Samoa, so Taula and I got back to Apia early. I asked him if they celebrated a type of Thanksgiving event in Samoa. He said no, but he had been in the USA before and knew about it. I asked if I could take his family out to dinner to celebrate Thanksgiving. He was taken back by my offer and said his children would be thrilled. I said you pick the spot.
Taula & Elsie
Taula and his wife Elsie have four girls and one boy (Brecius, Mato, Marjorie, Melenavet & BJ) all living in a small three room house. They sleep on grass mats on the floor. He said his children would love to go to McDonalds and order the Happy Meals. They couldn't afford a meal like this, so it would be special to them. So it was all set - we were to meet at the very small McDonalds in Apia at 5:30.
To my surprise the whole family got all dressed up. The girls were wearing their Sunday dresses and excited to be actually eating at a McDonalds. Elsie took charge and made sure everyone got the Happy Meal they wanted.
After the girls finished their Happy Meals, I asked Elsie if I could buy them an ice cream treat. I could see their eyes light up when they heard me ask Elsie. Sure enough they got there ice cream cones - with chocolate sauce topping.
As I think back on all the times I've spent with my own family at Thanksgiving, I can't help but think I won't forget this one ever. The meal was special to them, but just as special to me.