Citizens of the United States are sadly aware that today is the 15 year anniversary of the devastation and loss of lives on 9/11, that changed life as we knew it forever.

We extend our heartfelt sympathies and prayers for the families and friends whose loved ones were lost, leaving sorrowful memories that will remain in  the hearts and minds of generations to come.

For the rest of us, we’ll always recall the day, the time, the place we stood as we watched the events over and over in a state of horror from wherever we may have been at the time, a memory deeply ingrained in all of us.

To the firefighters, the paramedics and all other rescue personnel, whether professionals or passersby, we extend our gratitude and love for all that you risked, all that you gave and all that you continue to carry deep in your souls for the remainder of your lives.

Who among us, personally untouched by the events of the day can even grasp the magnitude of the loss suffered by so many, the loss of loved ones and for many, the loss of a dream they’d expected and hoped to fulfil with those that slipped through their fingers on one fateful day?

There remains a vast number of rescuers who have since lost their fight for life who suffered severe illnesses from residual effects from the toxicity inflicted upon their bodies on that day and for many days to come, as rescue effort continued for weeks. We offer of deepest condolences for their suffering and the subsequent suffering of their family members and friends.

There are few Americans that weren’t emotionally changed on that day and for days and years to come, as we were all bombarded with horrifying images on the news that will be emblazoned in our minds forever.

There is no story in our simple, uncomplicated lives of world travel that warrant telling today. Thus, today we’re posting a few photos and no “Sightings on the Beach in Bali.” We’re including our “year ago photo” to maintain the continuity of the dates.

May all of us bow our heads in reverence and prayer for those who lost their lives, for those who were left behind and for those who bravely and unselfishly risked  and lost their lives to save the lives of others.

May we all remember this day forever and strive for peace and harmony in this uncertain world. Be well.

Photo from one year ago today, September 12, 2015 (the 11th in the US)

The first night in Fiji, one year ago, the bed was infested with thousands of ants. The next day, the owner replaced the mattress, pillows, beddings and fumigated the bedroom. We never had the problem again in the bedroom during the three months in Savusavu although there were ants everywhere else in the small house. For more details, please click here.