Although it has been a little frustrating for me to remain patient while I await my flight to the RMI to meet the rest of the crew, I have confess that I have had a great time here in Tarawa. I originally had planned to stay here for four days prior to heading over the Marshall’s and take the secluded opportunity to get a sense of island life and further flush out our script. One canceled flight later and I have been here 10 days, and I hope to get to the RMI on Thursday – as you can imagine this is more than a little frustrating. Things do truly move slower here in the middle of the pacific – a great lesson for me (although at times hard to swallow) that I have been forced to learn.

What has helped keep me sane during this extended lay over has been the sincere hospitality of the staff here at my hotel. Every day while I am out cruising the town they make my room and leave these flowers to further extend their island hospitality. The generosity here is undeniable. These people are honest and always ready to offer a hand and what’s more important they are always there to share a laugh. I have gotten to know a few of the staff here, and as much as the punch lines of my jokes probably get lost in the translation, they still humor me with a good laugh. Believe me, when you are getting a little home sick for your beautiful wife at home and anxious to get started on your project, you find this is one of the most important moments of your day.

These are some shots I have taken from my temporary home, the Otintaai Hotel.

Everywhere I look I see amazing opportunities to capture breathtaking images for our project. I am eager to get back here with the boys in December and introduce them to this great place.