Celebrations for King George Tupou V were the main activities this weekend with functions left right and centre. Jodie had a ball (5 outfit changes over the weekend) and even borrowed some Kekia's (Mat skirts) she looked the part and I was very lucky to have my own Island princess to join me in the celebrations. It all kicked off with the Prime Minister's cocktail function at the Dateline Hotel. No alcohol until the King arrived though, it was also a great chance for me to meet some more of Jodie's friends from the tourism industry. They had a brass band and traditional band playing with guest singers like 'Joey' who seems to make all events in Tonga. A great entertainer. Once the King had left the drinks were turned off and we made the most of no kids and headed out to dinner with friends.
Lyndon's first outing in his Mess undress uniform and Jodie's in a Kekia
The traditional singers with Joey in the middle, red wine and all.
Jodie, Annie and Rosie looking beautiful as always.
His Majesty on the way out (white suit and cane).
A chance for our first shot with the royal seat behind us.
Sunday was the next official King's Birthday function and our first church service. We attended the King's church with brass band, choir and Tongan Defence Services members as backup. It was amazing, no words could do it justice. Most speeches and nearly the entire service were done in Tongan but we tried to follow along with our limited Tongan, however it was the singing that made the day. Jodie nearly had a heart attack as there was a lady in the crowd that could have passed for her mum. We have since found out that she is a personal assistant to the King.
His Majesty up singing during the service, with the Queen mother beside him.
We were in the middle of it all with the TDS behind us, the choir and band to the left and TDS officers in front. We were just four rows back from the front and the kids on their best behaviour.
Jodie's mum's twin sister all dressed up (in uniform).
Lyndon's Uniform change No.2 for the weekend.
Family shot outside the church.
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