The Dogs of Tonga

Yesterday I was suffering from sleep deprivation as a result of having been kept awake all night by barking dogs. The dogs here run wild, none seem to have a home. I don't know who, if anyone, feeds and waters them. Sometimes at night they form into small packs and if you go for a walk you'd better carry a rock in case you need to create a diversion to get away from them. I haven't had to use this ploy yet, but pick one up just in case.
Anyhow, the dogs seem to only bark at night and often it sounds as tho' they are either fighting among themselves or perhaps dismanteling some unfortunate swine (which also wander free). Pigs are fairly quiet animals, roosters not so much but the dogs make up for the less vocal beasts. There is no animal shelter or SPCA here and it is very sad to see so many dogs scavenging for food. I have heard that 'dog' is considered an edible for Sunday dinner altho' I have yet to see this practiced nor have I met anyone who admits to having tasted this particular dish.
In addition to dogs, roosters & church choirs at all hours; since school is now out until early Feb., the children don't seem to have any set bedtime and I am lucky enough to live next to a large family. These little celebrants have obtained firecrackers lately and enjoy setting them off after dark. I don't know how the locals sleep but it doesn't seem to bother them.
The library is coming along nicely and after the school break I should be able to start inputting the book info into the software program...it will take until the end of my time here to get everything in good shape to leave for whoever will be taking over.
The weather is still warm and sunny and all are hoping for rain soon as the water used for cooking, bathing, drinking, etc. is rainwater which is collected in large cement or plastic cisterns and that is getting low. I understand that there is a source of fresh ground water which can be pumped if necessary...most islands of this type have what is called a "lens" of fresh water beneath the middle portion of the island. This water source is limited tho' and wouldn't last too long as the demand would out strip the supply...So, this year I will be hoping for a wet, not white Christmas. Love to all......Penny