tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33582763714865598112024-02-20T21:25:47.363-08:00Et Voila AdventuresLife aboard a 450 Lagoon...Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03471059532461159422noreply@blogger.comBlogger20125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3358276371486559811.post-26364435538653989512016-05-01T22:46:00.001-07:002016-05-06T00:42:00.113-07:00Fiji, New Zealand, Australia<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>OCTOBER 10 - NOVEMBER 9, 2015</b><br />
<b>SUVA, FIJI AND OUR PASSAGE TO NEW ZEALAND</b></div>
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Well, it has been quite some time since we posted any adventures
on this blog, but we are here now. Once leaving Fulaga, we sailed directly to Suva to check out of Fiji, wait for good weather and begin our passage to New Zealand. When we arrived in Suva it was grey and raining...actually it rained for the entire time we were there. I don't like to complain, but I must say after spending time in Fulaga, seeing the port of Suva was shocking....not pretty...at all. It was very industrial looking with abandoned half-sunken shipwrecks scattered throughout the harbor which is an eerie welcome for arriving sailors. We did enjoy being able to buy fresh vegetables and fruits at the large outdoor market and we even saw a movie at the cinema. The reason Theo and I decided to go to Suva in the first place was because we had heard that checking out of the country there was a breeze, and this turned out to be very true. After waiting patiently for what felt to be an extremely long time, we finally got a good weather window and sailed away...without a glance back.<br />
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Our passage from Suva, Fiji to New Zealand
went fine except for the last three days when the weather turned quite bad with predictions of getting much worse. We usually check the weather every other day and half way into our passage, we saw that there were going to be two nasty low pressure systems meeting over New Zealand and that would cause some extremely unpleasant weather right before our arrival. Theo decided to motor Et Voila into the wind, with the hope to arrive in New Zealand before the storm. The alternatives were to slow down and wait for the storm to pass, which could be days, or sail west to Norfolk island, which was not desirable for many reasons. Fortunately, the two low pressure systems never met each other. It was still very rough, with short period steep, choppy waves which was challenging on the vessel and on us! The confused waves caused one of our wind generators to fall and it nearly hurt Theo while he was at the flybridge helm. Other than that there was not too much drama... a bit boring at
times, but mostly uneventful and that is NOT a bad thing.<o:p></o:p></div>
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After eight days on the ocean and using the light of the full moon to guide us, we arrived at Marsden Cove
Marina in New Zealand...it was 1:30 in the morning. We quickly tied up Et Voila,
jumped off the boat and paced back and forth on the quarantine dock for a
while. I think I may have even kissed the ground, I don’t remember…if I didn’t,
I was definitely thinking about it. Customs was nice enough not to disturb us
too early in the morning, so we were able to get a good night's sleep. As soon
as we woke up the customs officers came on board and officially checked us into New Zealand. When that was complete, we were able to enjoy a delicious and comforting flat white
coffee with breakfast at the marina café, followed by a brisk walk to stretch
our legs. Simple pleasures mean so much after a long passage!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Theo and I had Et Voila taken out of the water at Norsand shipyard in Whangarei and that is where she will stay until our return in April. It was bittersweet leaving her, but that is always
the case. We are grateful for the incredible places she has taken us and have made memories of a lifetime with her. We flew home to Southern
California and actually stayed much longer than we anticipated, but it was a
fun time and great to be with family and friends again.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>ADVENTURES IN “OZ’<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b>MARCH 30 – APRIL 20, 2016</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Australians affectionately refer to their country as OZ. I
have always wanted to go there. When I was in my twenties, I remember thinking
that Australia was the one place that I wanted to see in my lifetime. I don’t
remember why I felt that way, but I did. Apparently, wanderlust is in my blood…a longing to explore and travel. If someone would have told my 20
year old self that one day my future husband and I would sail from the United
States to New Zealand, well….I would have thought they were Looney Tunes. Anyway,
that was a long time ago. Since Et Voila was already safe and sound in the
Norsand shipyard in New Zealand, Theo and I decided to take some time and fly
over to OZ for a three week visit. Here is the story of how it went!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Melbourne (pronounced Melbun) was the perfect place to start
our trip in OZ. We stayed in the lovely and fun packed City Center near the
Yarra River. The city was bustling with trams, amazing restaurants and cafes,
trendy shops and neighborhoods, lights, music, art and beautiful bridges. I
know you’re probably thinking “Great Wanda, ALL cities are like that!”… yes, they
are, but there was a familiarity in Melbourne that I haven’t felt anywhere
else. Depending on where we wandered, I felt like I was in various places of
the world. Sometimes, while standing on a street corner waiting for the light to
change, I would feel exactly like I was in San Francisco. While taking a self- guided walk through the popular
Arcades and Lanes I imaged I was in Europe walking on the cobblestones and
watching people enjoy coffee or cocktails at one of the many tables lining the
narrow alleyways. Walking along the Yarra River I had a strong memory of being
in Ottawa, Canada. These are just a few examples of places that Melbourne
brought to life for me. It is one city that incorporates the best of them all.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view of Melbourne while walking along the Yarra River</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taking a rest while exploring the botanical gardens</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Street art is another fun aspect of the city</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful expressions of art are displayed on buildings throughout the city</td></tr>
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<b>TASMANIA, AUSTRALIA<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b>LAUNCESTON AND HOBART</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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The island of Tasmania is wild, raw and unspoiled. There are
not many places left in the world like it, so in our minds it was a must see.
We rented a car and drove to visit the second largest city on the North
side…Launceston. When we arrived we went straight to Cataract Gorge for a
beautiful walk across Kings Bridge and along the Tamar River. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cataract Gorge....peacocks were roaming the park</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crossing Kings Bridge</td></tr>
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Theo and I were really looking forward to seeing the
wildlife in Tasmania, so we made visiting the Trowunna Wildlife Park at Mole
Creek a priority and we are so happy we did. We saw Wombats, Spotted Quolls and
we even got to watch the carnivorous Tasmanian Devils while they ate…very
interesting…we definitely understand how they got their name. The best part of
the wildlife park for us was the kangaroos. Our guide mentioned during the tour
that the kangaroos were napping in the forest at the far end of the park and
that they would venture out at dusk. Well….why wait? Theo and I had never seen
a kangaroo before, so we left the visitors area to find them. We walked and
walked until we finally saw around fifty kangaroos! They were resting, but once they spotted us, they hopped off to hide. We decided to sit on a log and wait quietly. Sure enough, one by one, they slowly came out and stared at us. They looked so
human like it was eerie. Finally, one approached us because we had purchased
some food from the office. The kangaroos got comfortable with our presence and within a short time
they just went about their business and were all around us! We truly enjoyed
that experience, especially since there was no one else around.We must have spent an hour and a half with them. The only
negative thing that happened was that Theo got a leech attached to his lower
leg, but once he realized it was there, he calmly and casually scraped it off
with a stick…what a man. Well, I am quite certain that if the leech was on me I
would be running around and screaming like a fool, so I guess it was good that
it happened to him. I would have given those poor kangaroos the fright of their
lives! Before we left the park, I mentioned the leech incident to the Aussie at
the front office. He said “Haven’t you ever had a leech on you before?” When we said no, he replied “Well, tick that one off your bucket list!”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Tasmanian Devil was the only critter that Theo did not try to touch</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A very friendly Wombat</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is what we saw when the Roos first began peeking out of their hiding places to see what we were up to</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqoAI5ydEHTD-cg1w7NDVQvQ5MPeiXQyFqtnAg24EI67mzYeHYPV6diPrymEgqanbLbwVwcyWylOnvnKwkGYq4dSnzmC8HhmcBUsaDVeTKoFwer-sgfEX4h0wL2ggGLidnD5oCWKi6sNBv/s1600/IMG_2979+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqoAI5ydEHTD-cg1w7NDVQvQ5MPeiXQyFqtnAg24EI67mzYeHYPV6diPrymEgqanbLbwVwcyWylOnvnKwkGYq4dSnzmC8HhmcBUsaDVeTKoFwer-sgfEX4h0wL2ggGLidnD5oCWKi6sNBv/s320/IMG_2979+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> A Mama with her baby </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfETL2tYKCAxWr9b-OhD_A3IRA0op2_tR9fa_BOQ1GhzkUUCYiz-EwcnLHqdaa2CK483lzSFY3eQtzaMRZvDKCYCOSSrKbbT3DUrJkO1cvGut_372wfrsaXlyiWK8oQZujjziSw2pIvFDu/s1600/IMG_2993+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfETL2tYKCAxWr9b-OhD_A3IRA0op2_tR9fa_BOQ1GhzkUUCYiz-EwcnLHqdaa2CK483lzSFY3eQtzaMRZvDKCYCOSSrKbbT3DUrJkO1cvGut_372wfrsaXlyiWK8oQZujjziSw2pIvFDu/s320/IMG_2993+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A very young Joey in the pouch</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSAueI9v-zJ9VyLc2PWCc6q5whfc9iwQ-aH9JsoVMgvRNaerFzbyWhn5gr6ALnvcjJMGp2UrIapi-DzR2q-p6ve4HcGc8Qkuye64bzxSn093da92OKtwRnO1Kf3WMAZxKt0xIKZGCc8-_Y/s1600/20160405_141351_resized-1+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSAueI9v-zJ9VyLc2PWCc6q5whfc9iwQ-aH9JsoVMgvRNaerFzbyWhn5gr6ALnvcjJMGp2UrIapi-DzR2q-p6ve4HcGc8Qkuye64bzxSn093da92OKtwRnO1Kf3WMAZxKt0xIKZGCc8-_Y/s320/20160405_141351_resized-1+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" width="287" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDW7Q4IjuBqZDu66fTLlX-hZ_9VbqKztwXvtcNSjT4KoZOELAggjtUyVMITl5Cl0VhFbzUFOY6MweoLlxdXPQqah3QAhCn5yvtoQJ60_BDl6P9_EWU_ghFl8OyWLgMKgIFMnFCafnnrPzF/s1600/20160405_141028_resized+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDW7Q4IjuBqZDu66fTLlX-hZ_9VbqKztwXvtcNSjT4KoZOELAggjtUyVMITl5Cl0VhFbzUFOY6MweoLlxdXPQqah3QAhCn5yvtoQJ60_BDl6P9_EWU_ghFl8OyWLgMKgIFMnFCafnnrPzF/s320/20160405_141028_resized+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjng5BEdtYxWiyl_viQCKLg8cYQrSLhvgBMpm8RA-TPvBkQa44YRy2WUm83ptLIFJwWdcKVuYVxNJKSjn2D1HJoLloeeUEaByN9mzEvSmVO8f25fq0RWPXsrBeLFZCHV2tmfl_pogdqu-1G/s1600/20160405_143323_resized+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjng5BEdtYxWiyl_viQCKLg8cYQrSLhvgBMpm8RA-TPvBkQa44YRy2WUm83ptLIFJwWdcKVuYVxNJKSjn2D1HJoLloeeUEaByN9mzEvSmVO8f25fq0RWPXsrBeLFZCHV2tmfl_pogdqu-1G/s320/20160405_143323_resized+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They eventually relaxed around us</td></tr>
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Another memorable day was visiting the national park. Cradle
Mountain is in the heart of the protected Tasmanian wilderness, so you can
imagine the beauty of it. Cars cannot drive into the park, so we took a shuttle
bus in and then hiked the popular Dove Lake track which surrounds Lake St
Clair. It was a bit drizzly and wet on that day. Since it was April, prime tourist season was
over and we were able to experience most everything without the crowds, so a
little rain didn’t put us off…we are used to getting wet.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlyQLSPcPPttLHmXIH2lQQvia6j5b0S3fm5U-hsfndc91ViakrxhHAV6vWWBIGMqvq3a3VoEzH5SLr_ttxcmuVrH2ZEd_wBU9rYlMhEdV7w2d5EvDfF1K3ZGnFT1CmJEOJnQAccWc18m4A/s1600/20160407_140150_resized+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlyQLSPcPPttLHmXIH2lQQvia6j5b0S3fm5U-hsfndc91ViakrxhHAV6vWWBIGMqvq3a3VoEzH5SLr_ttxcmuVrH2ZEd_wBU9rYlMhEdV7w2d5EvDfF1K3ZGnFT1CmJEOJnQAccWc18m4A/s320/20160407_140150_resized+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hiking the Dove Lake Trail which circles Lake St Clair</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8OAaGlKTGdi-Jk4IBh7k2DsKiBwOfhvrXQyJieqIHuoO4S1mxW9t-HQrsrO68TIKWiek6YlvIBcLowhiDKTsr-X4A4DQ-rA2m1ud9OwoTEJ51iAEobP3mep_t6HY0KAUCO88A4NUgvb2M/s1600/IMG_3096+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8OAaGlKTGdi-Jk4IBh7k2DsKiBwOfhvrXQyJieqIHuoO4S1mxW9t-HQrsrO68TIKWiek6YlvIBcLowhiDKTsr-X4A4DQ-rA2m1ud9OwoTEJ51iAEobP3mep_t6HY0KAUCO88A4NUgvb2M/s320/IMG_3096+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4u3beY9QkH0uVNRbBAJkmAgyWplYC99HvKhaODhVuFgiOGBBXW42HHt_Trt3L1s8VWwzsiiUxOj7u0iq9qDOr23bHDgRF-fJjmvyJPtDwFOvGUWhJV-NNfeTw_x0GgfIxuIKlbATiL9AU/s1600/IMG_3098+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4u3beY9QkH0uVNRbBAJkmAgyWplYC99HvKhaODhVuFgiOGBBXW42HHt_Trt3L1s8VWwzsiiUxOj7u0iq9qDOr23bHDgRF-fJjmvyJPtDwFOvGUWhJV-NNfeTw_x0GgfIxuIKlbATiL9AU/s320/IMG_3098+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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We drove South to Hobart, which is the largest city in
Tasmania. We had been very physically active in Launceston, so by the time we
arrived in Hobart we just wanted to rest and walk around the city center.
Again, this part of Tasmania reminded us a lot of Europe. There are
restaurants, cafes and bars lining the streets and the main square was filled
with children playing, music and people dancing. On Saturday, we were lucky
enough to experience the famous Salamanca Market that is outdoors and goes on
all day long. I felt like the whole city was there! Visiting Tasmania was like
going back in time to a place where it is fine to leave car keys in the
ignition and doors unlocked. Simple pleasures are what life is about here…it
would be a dream to have more places like it.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVGgaaRfrvxzJWMcLXPKN0a-s5V7Jbl9qkkNipbiUvMPUb9Wlz3F67swtr1C8yhwf01ytDLwSSqRAZhW9l1KCEmfCOyL4Mvogu8gmRsuxFkJ7xjt9gtySQQJnaBGUOOuRldGhBV7_Z9tIy/s1600/20160409_130827-1_resized+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="187" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVGgaaRfrvxzJWMcLXPKN0a-s5V7Jbl9qkkNipbiUvMPUb9Wlz3F67swtr1C8yhwf01ytDLwSSqRAZhW9l1KCEmfCOyL4Mvogu8gmRsuxFkJ7xjt9gtySQQJnaBGUOOuRldGhBV7_Z9tIy/s320/20160409_130827-1_resized+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Exploring the Salamanca Market in Hobart</td></tr>
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<b>DRIVING THE GREAT OCEAN ROAD<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b>MELBOURNE TO ADELAIDE, SOUTH AUSTRALIA</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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We rented a car in Melbourne with the agreement to return it
in Adelaide. This is a common situation here since the Great Ocean Road (GOR) is one
of the most popular drives in Australia. The curving road is 243 km (151 miles)
long and was built into the rocky cliffs by Australian soldiers that came back after World War I. The road is a permanent memorial to these
servicemen and the many others that did not return home.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLMWFfM-I4V1dfwkHqE1DOUr05yRLtB4drjinNsdB8qTSZsvHAl9gF00T6K8BQ6SIFDUZGGVSO6DVJjDi50-rY1qa2sDMYcxkjt7xA9Totg1fAbJSCXuiC2A9FQVHZ2W7Misbq4xjUj78t/s1600/DSC_0473+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLMWFfM-I4V1dfwkHqE1DOUr05yRLtB4drjinNsdB8qTSZsvHAl9gF00T6K8BQ6SIFDUZGGVSO6DVJjDi50-rY1qa2sDMYcxkjt7xA9Totg1fAbJSCXuiC2A9FQVHZ2W7Misbq4xjUj78t/s320/DSC_0473+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch</td></tr>
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GOR Day #1 - We left Melbourne behind and drove towards Apollo
Bay. Our first stop along the GOR was in Torquay to get a quick bite to eat and
see the famous Bells Beach which is the location for the Rip Curl Pro surfing
competitions. We continued to drive along the turbulent coastline and watched
as mist from the ocean floated up to the homes on the cliffs above. I can
imagine living there would be a lot like living on a boat… damp and wet most of
the time.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Our next stop was very fun. We pulled onto a dirt road at
Kennet River to walk among the Eucalyptus trees. We had never seen a Koala in
the wild, so you can only imagine that Theo and I spent way too much time
watching the furry bears. Koalas are awake only a few hours during the day, so
when we did finally find an active one, we felt very fortunate. We reluctantly
left when it began to get dark and both of us had neck aches from staring
upwards for hours!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6BSORB7dP5yX6zys5AMsg8fFKTZRFmGt2K64TwUh3nDv9CEML1LAaB9ai_w8v3eBeZTukSE8wrSwzaiBn_iN6NT1lS5IjBC2fxcbbzDQlJilVC_A99CvftodbsdSefw8OEe_eE6vq4TGR/s1600/IMG_3228+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6BSORB7dP5yX6zys5AMsg8fFKTZRFmGt2K64TwUh3nDv9CEML1LAaB9ai_w8v3eBeZTukSE8wrSwzaiBn_iN6NT1lS5IjBC2fxcbbzDQlJilVC_A99CvftodbsdSefw8OEe_eE6vq4TGR/s320/IMG_3228+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5JV_-yGbRPzrO1J76uasRetsGVuUVtGTm9eqImG6Ty4FfBo1RsTM8hyphenhyphenYLtTaUB1AdZSkm6Y7D6Iuvr9YoBpYaXSbqhDJwD7mqd4ZV8mUswtzIZEmhHmwfCg25NxtmQoZZvKBi7gorv8e7/s1600/IMG_3298+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5JV_-yGbRPzrO1J76uasRetsGVuUVtGTm9eqImG6Ty4FfBo1RsTM8hyphenhyphenYLtTaUB1AdZSkm6Y7D6Iuvr9YoBpYaXSbqhDJwD7mqd4ZV8mUswtzIZEmhHmwfCg25NxtmQoZZvKBi7gorv8e7/s320/IMG_3298+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFTYxgapbqg__34ut2m5eFt4DJyxAKFvyznGrCYXgfM5P7C4NMQmo4YSVsd_wOVhn6eZUFS1FM_9IYH3FlFi0K5h5g3hDnXinqPectwvwMlyCbV3P-tHWCLhd4XwNVUJ6T2frokGeiYYRw/s1600/IMG_3304+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFTYxgapbqg__34ut2m5eFt4DJyxAKFvyznGrCYXgfM5P7C4NMQmo4YSVsd_wOVhn6eZUFS1FM_9IYH3FlFi0K5h5g3hDnXinqPectwvwMlyCbV3P-tHWCLhd4XwNVUJ6T2frokGeiYYRw/s320/IMG_3304+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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GOR Day #2 – We spent the night in Apollo Bay and before beginning our morning drive, we purchased some breakfast and coffee for take away
and walked to the bay to eat and watch the many people with kayaks and surfboards enter the water.
Unfortunately, we were quickly surrounded by hungry, obnoxious sea birds, so it wasn’t as
peaceful as we thought it might be. Onward…we had a lot to see that day!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Our first stop was at Maits Rest for a walk through the
rain forest. After that, we climbed to the top of the Cape
Otway Lighthouse and saw amazing views of the Australian coastline. Finally, we arrived at
the famous Twelve Apostles and enjoyed the many, many stunning lookouts that
followed. We decided to stay in Port Fairy for the night and believe me when I
say that Port Fairy is a VERY quiet little coastal town! We had that feeling of
going way back in time again…<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXR0rRc-Ar0vUX6iPoAO69id2OxbKn8n_hfm0bWxNwJaQcy-RLGdiL4raiuWKoUJ_R6Yu9c0mVZZeYY1VGbwsEf2z3HBTL7AB2N2AWQYbywAuCRxEkvQGv8fRkisQ6_wOxJJPMbfn4LWiX/s1600/DSC_0484+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXR0rRc-Ar0vUX6iPoAO69id2OxbKn8n_hfm0bWxNwJaQcy-RLGdiL4raiuWKoUJ_R6Yu9c0mVZZeYY1VGbwsEf2z3HBTL7AB2N2AWQYbywAuCRxEkvQGv8fRkisQ6_wOxJJPMbfn4LWiX/s320/DSC_0484+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A stunning walk through the rain forest at Maits Rest</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Lsc7xPJv_-ellbykxEaYOTLyXMBxbhc7heK2F8xcINeu5o_kbyHbxD6sLWHMW1OzzXcgulMIHCwl3pxtxx4s6KzWKSDhzh_LgSBExhq9uVbmIp7xNJ-yjcSjlwsXunkWuykyDVXwQ0LW/s1600/IMG-20160414-WA0007+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Lsc7xPJv_-ellbykxEaYOTLyXMBxbhc7heK2F8xcINeu5o_kbyHbxD6sLWHMW1OzzXcgulMIHCwl3pxtxx4s6KzWKSDhzh_LgSBExhq9uVbmIp7xNJ-yjcSjlwsXunkWuykyDVXwQ0LW/s320/IMG-20160414-WA0007+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ9awZvFeXoAzNVoCl0xdQu-tST_qbz8V1ly6ugHj53ieD72w2bBebEN4AeRfzhEu5wBzxs59ZMyPwTEJ6VuySp4BpQNDrgfULITjSaufs-u4uHXp6nmOvGI_n3RnJraGO1EPBVOyhwC69/s1600/IMG_3204+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ9awZvFeXoAzNVoCl0xdQu-tST_qbz8V1ly6ugHj53ieD72w2bBebEN4AeRfzhEu5wBzxs59ZMyPwTEJ6VuySp4BpQNDrgfULITjSaufs-u4uHXp6nmOvGI_n3RnJraGO1EPBVOyhwC69/s320/IMG_3204+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cape Otway has the oldest lighthouse in Australia</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvVaP3l5ZUh9DcAhrsr94HEqHMHWlR4t8cK98ljmBFgMpPOyd1-T9HftoO3JbsQGOutgxfK0Jwy4R0DZlNslOieaHXmPY_8lvPnWLX-XdqBGCQ5q6Q2r37rhhzCB6SDe-Mzvv7-HROq5-p/s1600/IMG_3213+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvVaP3l5ZUh9DcAhrsr94HEqHMHWlR4t8cK98ljmBFgMpPOyd1-T9HftoO3JbsQGOutgxfK0Jwy4R0DZlNslOieaHXmPY_8lvPnWLX-XdqBGCQ5q6Q2r37rhhzCB6SDe-Mzvv7-HROq5-p/s320/IMG_3213+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There are over 600 shipwrecks along the coast, but only 240 of them have been found</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcw7tJYOeUbJf2xNTHMbJlAoVvnaI5hdhihssDSaCuqvxMBKlOtrVlOLgEESL7LJzZIpuA9jQEcgB4PL1zTP4ti4MkCx-fY_GNT4b2M9HQjhILP2xG63qyUXOPBoacXTckxTm-9-gc9vHv/s1600/20160412_120144_resized+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcw7tJYOeUbJf2xNTHMbJlAoVvnaI5hdhihssDSaCuqvxMBKlOtrVlOLgEESL7LJzZIpuA9jQEcgB4PL1zTP4ti4MkCx-fY_GNT4b2M9HQjhILP2xG63qyUXOPBoacXTckxTm-9-gc9vHv/s320/20160412_120144_resized+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the view from the top of the lighthouse...watching the ocean from there was a humbling experience...<br />
and that is why it is called Shipwreck Coast</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH9LQZmsPK9q-cUuF4sZ1kq5pydT6iTvW-fftJcJ64zS1JgbesjKKiEfUoau468C5uGBON6OXNgMPXMJx3zMsl5GsRC3yAu9dUXVrg04eu0JY-rR_8lQMYGae1cSmroTHSAqDzBFmxbhg1/s1600/IMG_3248+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH9LQZmsPK9q-cUuF4sZ1kq5pydT6iTvW-fftJcJ64zS1JgbesjKKiEfUoau468C5uGBON6OXNgMPXMJx3zMsl5GsRC3yAu9dUXVrg04eu0JY-rR_8lQMYGae1cSmroTHSAqDzBFmxbhg1/s320/IMG_3248+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We arrived at this gorgeous beach after walking down the Gibson Steps</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCz4SCrXKtX0shvwoSuudcYqllsYzTa4qUs0TW2DP9hmbWqejDhcLGUFWXujFvJrinC19pmSOVgY46SUKfTGH9XFSkgPHGBZMyoQv4l0jQCe5wwaHBEbo7YKkffrc6GiVEKPscsQssg03-/s1600/IMG_3263+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCz4SCrXKtX0shvwoSuudcYqllsYzTa4qUs0TW2DP9hmbWqejDhcLGUFWXujFvJrinC19pmSOVgY46SUKfTGH9XFSkgPHGBZMyoQv4l0jQCe5wwaHBEbo7YKkffrc6GiVEKPscsQssg03-/s320/IMG_3263+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The famous Twelve Apostles</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYnPDtwqQDr75EmisF5LIrzsEfn2gJtPpRKbxrYmybAWX81MLliWblr5gTWIqOUxfUnG6JkOuSuV8HO1opzUACOZrGdbdAwK1XF-8HK_-YtFGou7ObTW9C9fp3XyxDUF8qx-2BIipbXV5Y/s1600/IMG_3268+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYnPDtwqQDr75EmisF5LIrzsEfn2gJtPpRKbxrYmybAWX81MLliWblr5gTWIqOUxfUnG6JkOuSuV8HO1opzUACOZrGdbdAwK1XF-8HK_-YtFGou7ObTW9C9fp3XyxDUF8qx-2BIipbXV5Y/s320/IMG_3268+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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GOR Day #3 – We had a short two hour drive to Halls Gap in the
Grampians National Park and I really wish
we could have spent more time there. If you love nature and hiking, this is a
very special place. As soon as we arrived we hiked the Pinnacle track and I
think Theo would agree with me that it was one of the best hikes we have ever
been on. It was rocky, steep and just gorgeous. Once we reached the top, we met
a young couple from Tasmania and we exchanged stories while we took a rest.
Before parting ways, they asked us if we could take a picture of them together.
Theo took their camera as they climbed to the highest point of the cliff’s drop
off and comfortably posed near the edge with huge smiles on their faces. There
they were, so close to the edge of sheer nothingness and I could barely look without
wanting to grab them both and pull them to safety. I am certain that the
photograph captured a moment of a lifetime for them, but when they told us to go sit
there so we could have our picture taken, we both said “Hell no." Theo and I are
both extremely uncomfortable with heights, so…no way! We said goodbye to them,
but not before they made great fun of us for crossing an ocean, yet not being willing
to sit on a sturdy rock!! <o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg64G5Xe7qdIDVGX-Y-KgTYhNd1YDx-ow1u_nW6rydA5w6e_LTFmCvdS0dTXFRCVtkqYCB8yW9RRaZEHAVfRdphPP0hn3pEIKRoXNwoKCc83wR1Txo6g5tSQD36Tr-t3h0h4FfGZXpkGEd0/s1600/20160413_151752_resized+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg64G5Xe7qdIDVGX-Y-KgTYhNd1YDx-ow1u_nW6rydA5w6e_LTFmCvdS0dTXFRCVtkqYCB8yW9RRaZEHAVfRdphPP0hn3pEIKRoXNwoKCc83wR1Txo6g5tSQD36Tr-t3h0h4FfGZXpkGEd0/s320/20160413_151752_resized+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I am not a fast hiker, so Theo is usually waiting for me</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcuP29lhpnaJvHxsRyNJ_KJH57Iy8q_EzjAGYqVGrd-WBYI6uxY_BBirFR4Jm_qSBH6QzlDDDARFfkV6DhIoP3pM9Cz0Fjar851I4zNsqFiasD6CxBKK8i6cf2aUxSMBvFXWSKXP8jAYhA/s1600/20160413_160404_resized+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcuP29lhpnaJvHxsRyNJ_KJH57Iy8q_EzjAGYqVGrd-WBYI6uxY_BBirFR4Jm_qSBH6QzlDDDARFfkV6DhIoP3pM9Cz0Fjar851I4zNsqFiasD6CxBKK8i6cf2aUxSMBvFXWSKXP8jAYhA/s320/20160413_160404_resized+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At one point during our hike I felt very tired so I took a rest. At that moment, an older, grey-<br />
haired gentleman with a limp and a cane walked past me, smiled and said "G'day". I did not<br />
stop again until I reached the very top!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmGBGJDxxuozGPdAyHb_eXElWyhuDQ2xA3lqS2burSPwjhxI2yuAY68xGmIR192XbsOErVcpmuoMKlttdW3LqLfAQejw2N_kAwV5ww9vFTtK5A0tJHQ1JLoR_zJ457Y8dqxG_A7H0XBGv1/s1600/DSC_0549+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmGBGJDxxuozGPdAyHb_eXElWyhuDQ2xA3lqS2burSPwjhxI2yuAY68xGmIR192XbsOErVcpmuoMKlttdW3LqLfAQejw2N_kAwV5ww9vFTtK5A0tJHQ1JLoR_zJ457Y8dqxG_A7H0XBGv1/s320/DSC_0549+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The section of cliff that you see jutting out on the left side of this image<br />
is where the young couple sat for their photograph. Sheer nothingness...<br />
no thank you!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc48sxn_Ym52ShkLI492xogN1SuR8VYuCmbRJA0FcELv_orykpBkvmR4mPRDzQF9F2CsTjDFuyQ8aKzChgKMvuvhdThz5yapSE-bbUAmF7pT7tewcWXnaYKcxvPGm5v4mPV6zbrWhGZubV/s1600/20160413_152705_resized+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc48sxn_Ym52ShkLI492xogN1SuR8VYuCmbRJA0FcELv_orykpBkvmR4mPRDzQF9F2CsTjDFuyQ8aKzChgKMvuvhdThz5yapSE-bbUAmF7pT7tewcWXnaYKcxvPGm5v4mPV6zbrWhGZubV/s320/20160413_152705_resized+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> The very top of the Pinnacle Trail...we were proud of ourselves</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b>KANGAROO ISLAND<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b>SOUTH AUSTRALIA</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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The following morning we left Halls Gap and drove six hours
to the city of Adelaide. We arrived too late to visit the famous Central Market
that was located right next to our hotel. I was sad because it is known to be
one of the best in Australia and I wanted to have a walk through...we couldn’t
do it all I guess. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The Port Jervis ferry that goes to Kangaroo Island was
completely sold out except for one at seven o’clock in the morning
(sometimes being spontaneous and leaving things to fate is not the brightest
way to travel). We booked it, but we had to wake up at four o’clock
in the morning to arrive in Port Jervis on time. The ferry ride was a quick 45
minutes and once on the island, we stopped in Kingscote to load up with groceries before driving to
the cottage we had rented in secluded Vivonne Bay. Our rental was named
Serenity Cottage and it truly fit its name. It was tiny and quirky, but it was
very clean and had a fully equipped kitchen. There was a cozy patio outside
surrounded by trees, so we decided to use the grill, open a nice bottle of local
wine and sit outside to watch the bats fly around at dusk. Sounds great right?
Well, it would have been… except for the swarms of mosquitoes that joined our
little soiree. We quickly went back inside, closed the door securely behind us, cooked
the food in the oven and watched the bats with our noses pressed against the
window. Oh well, it was still fun and the wine was epic!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzObGTvDYvWfGGfxmi7jjRftVihhQKuQNjmKjfG-nIbOKaEvGekMZFkiNlqCWLa_vbKCaPOmFJGhRjClZaK4gsw-YQ5FnBE7c_GkfBxJ9By5UZAKNpDl5dmXs5VolcL_WhXI3fbxbhZEMK/s1600/IMG-9a4866ce1638c6be15cfa9b9f2fff6-V.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzObGTvDYvWfGGfxmi7jjRftVihhQKuQNjmKjfG-nIbOKaEvGekMZFkiNlqCWLa_vbKCaPOmFJGhRjClZaK4gsw-YQ5FnBE7c_GkfBxJ9By5UZAKNpDl5dmXs5VolcL_WhXI3fbxbhZEMK/s320/IMG-9a4866ce1638c6be15cfa9b9f2fff6-V.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vivonne Bay has crystal clear water and one of the most beautiful beaches in Australia</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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For nature and
wildlife lovers, Kangaroo Island is a great place to be. Everywhere we looked
we could easily find Kangaroos (of course), Wallabies, Koalas and adorable
Echidnas. We even stumbled upon the elusive Heath Goanna during our Snake
Lagoon hike in Flinders Chase National Park. The only real problem that the
animals face on the island is motor vehicles. Honestly, we saw a lot of dead wildlife that had been struck by cars while we were in Tasmania, but the amount on Kangaroo
Island was alarming to us. I know it cannot be helped because it is just the
law of the jungle there, but I would be lying if I said that we got used to it.
All the local cars, trucks and even the buses had heavy duty metal cages built
onto the front fenders and hoods to protect them from damage. Theo and I had been warned to purchase extra
insurance for our rental car because of the high probability of hitting a
kangaroo and causing extensive damage to the vehicle, so we did. Later on we discovered that the additional insurance did
not apply if we drove after dusk! We have never driven so slowly in our lives and
are happy to report that the only things we squashed while driving were bugs…that was a tremendous relief for us!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd12Xn7ln07L4ocWG6ZdUVg6CxMFlUiy0ZpEbJFksQALm_eqBN2Z7qZ_gCbpP21B-wk5pShxDdIKdXqvHx8Jhb4tCjJKwC7CP3CGia7HuO7iPUXKqmszjchctJASgVyMLY7erFu84i50X_/s1600/DSC_0532+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd12Xn7ln07L4ocWG6ZdUVg6CxMFlUiy0ZpEbJFksQALm_eqBN2Z7qZ_gCbpP21B-wk5pShxDdIKdXqvHx8Jhb4tCjJKwC7CP3CGia7HuO7iPUXKqmszjchctJASgVyMLY7erFu84i50X_/s320/DSC_0532+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMzxFUlWKykNVteipxcU17Wk1pQJVlGWTnAGLMM0gAgW16gyWI2U2ib-206-V0im3zCJCCSnPRcKLAQQ27HhJCFZ0bK6EHjWWDLa6C5lKvl_1kmFFH-DfNIlc6YUTXrDCpDGxPuQfVbyi-/s1600/IMG_3033+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMzxFUlWKykNVteipxcU17Wk1pQJVlGWTnAGLMM0gAgW16gyWI2U2ib-206-V0im3zCJCCSnPRcKLAQQ27HhJCFZ0bK6EHjWWDLa6C5lKvl_1kmFFH-DfNIlc6YUTXrDCpDGxPuQfVbyi-/s320/IMG_3033+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These adorable Echidnas were our favorite creature. On two separate occasions, we saw<br />
them waddling across the road and into the bush</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2AzcTZA58_nWAIMbWwHjOJNwfN2RvssrjJSW7z6ImajhRY0FxGAozL_KpcQPemwm7A_HZkHshsJ6awbb8Bcp2yXE2cVBAASzj6oFDBGMV7A0VHoTyN8b-2cCBahs6a-2jFof-2rNKfAFr/s1600/IMG_3317+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2AzcTZA58_nWAIMbWwHjOJNwfN2RvssrjJSW7z6ImajhRY0FxGAozL_KpcQPemwm7A_HZkHshsJ6awbb8Bcp2yXE2cVBAASzj6oFDBGMV7A0VHoTyN8b-2cCBahs6a-2jFof-2rNKfAFr/s320/IMG_3317+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We stumbled upon this Heath Goanna on the Snake Lagoon Trail</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwpKFscJve03-xZAN__RjCwcPYCDxPzKDKsobgQq1W7m5C1M6R7xlQfJrEkPhCAe6ntx6Yt4T9Iu4hemT47WEBlQ5IQiSv9ZdX3Rz_0nBxZ_JOQvqGusZIccjeaLSIxxlyihDm0AbEsLnX/s1600/IMG_3315+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwpKFscJve03-xZAN__RjCwcPYCDxPzKDKsobgQq1W7m5C1M6R7xlQfJrEkPhCAe6ntx6Yt4T9Iu4hemT47WEBlQ5IQiSv9ZdX3Rz_0nBxZ_JOQvqGusZIccjeaLSIxxlyihDm0AbEsLnX/s320/IMG_3315+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5TGxT2eq8UeaceeDty7DMx_xWf0XYlndLYyFb0O0U2rfHbWLkdO_Y3umhtdypZvlREnex-RhrrrvAPEehkYdl_tUkCxfWqeS5iGLMxSgt1yL4vnIpO6KyNum4SQnzDcqhyphenhypheniZlXr-2GYpb/s1600/IMG_3326+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5TGxT2eq8UeaceeDty7DMx_xWf0XYlndLYyFb0O0U2rfHbWLkdO_Y3umhtdypZvlREnex-RhrrrvAPEehkYdl_tUkCxfWqeS5iGLMxSgt1yL4vnIpO6KyNum4SQnzDcqhyphenhypheniZlXr-2GYpb/s320/IMG_3326+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the beach at the end of our Snake Lagoon hike. The sign actually read<br />
CAUTION FREAK WAVES!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbWB9ppwNUE5PrQQZ5U2CiAPJdshvZcYk2DeiH4hLtjeVNAm5bzC8ub_oWDfEBklld8o8IfLyE-oEZamaeODZLv9Ls3egBXZInscA_oCZ8IdRPJQNvyCeOrUOz-JRELjpr0olsOkb9ojl1/s1600/IMG_3361+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbWB9ppwNUE5PrQQZ5U2CiAPJdshvZcYk2DeiH4hLtjeVNAm5bzC8ub_oWDfEBklld8o8IfLyE-oEZamaeODZLv9Ls3egBXZInscA_oCZ8IdRPJQNvyCeOrUOz-JRELjpr0olsOkb9ojl1/s320/IMG_3361+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Admirals Arch in Flinders Chase National Park</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj34cEsSTeV69tZF2s6GX7JwzX6aV_9WNF3XppytmCrgfWXJb9OfifKqcLmi5BTzgRYvbrIHw-ymRo26MVs_1p8Aw0WJYVY1TlyuzzsJaBUjPgJQXXrbpJ_kNOnR6y24DRt2wHhGF-DQjEd/s1600/IMG_3386+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj34cEsSTeV69tZF2s6GX7JwzX6aV_9WNF3XppytmCrgfWXJb9OfifKqcLmi5BTzgRYvbrIHw-ymRo26MVs_1p8Aw0WJYVY1TlyuzzsJaBUjPgJQXXrbpJ_kNOnR6y24DRt2wHhGF-DQjEd/s320/IMG_3386+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Remarkable Rocks in Flinders Chase National Park</td></tr>
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We did not want to leave Kangaroo Island without cuddling a Koala, so on our last day, we went to the Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park. There we were both able to hold Alfie, a 20 pound male. He climbed right onto our shoulders and was not even holding on that hard. He trusted us to support him as he munched on the eucalyptus leaves we were feeding him. The park had just rescued a 7 month old koala that was found wandering the road after his mother was struck and killed by a car. Alfie now shares his space with the baby and lets it cling onto him for comfort...we loved him.<br />
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<b>SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA</b></div>
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Having always wanted to see the Opera House, we decided to
end our Australian adventure in Sydney. We arrived later than expected because
of our delayed flight, so as soon as we could, we walked to the harbor to see
the Opera House for the first time. I am so glad it was evening because it was
so stunning at night with the city lights. We only had one full day in Sydney
and since the Opera House was our priority, we joined an early morning tour to
see the inside of it. Afterwards we took a ferry to Watson’s Bay so we could experience Sydney from the waterside and enjoy a leisurely lunch
at Doyle’s on the beach. Since
it was our last evening in Australia, we purchased tickets to see Turandot, an opera by Giacomo Puccini, that was performed on Sydney Harbor with a stunning view of the Opera
House and city. Theo and I feel incredibly grateful to have had three amazing weeks in OZ!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWJHjkxJ20ofA0C7w_-QB2Y8uFRR0euzZPjVn7aEK1PDATH7WKHlMDmL4Qfc87b7JHm__uRPlQ1L_WJjMQ17UxvfMhvmFyNqw5xyEAoLxhX9mGGelnATz6m6YqRpKJ1yWxVDujAxw2BNMc/s1600/DSC_0577+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWJHjkxJ20ofA0C7w_-QB2Y8uFRR0euzZPjVn7aEK1PDATH7WKHlMDmL4Qfc87b7JHm__uRPlQ1L_WJjMQ17UxvfMhvmFyNqw5xyEAoLxhX9mGGelnATz6m6YqRpKJ1yWxVDujAxw2BNMc/s320/DSC_0577+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My first glimpse of the Opera House at night</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihQSPNAgkD3bz4kHOGHg7YUfYa9Qomc7m6F8F5ZMY9tF68m6fL7yRXCCqWAt5tHIVXAsk9VEoACzBup04l_-ncup2WYv8bK0WKe_B47eyrDb2xbdanHAQOq64ZPqTlWwSlw-Iopi_3fE0n/s1600/IMG_3522+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihQSPNAgkD3bz4kHOGHg7YUfYa9Qomc7m6F8F5ZMY9tF68m6fL7yRXCCqWAt5tHIVXAsk9VEoACzBup04l_-ncup2WYv8bK0WKe_B47eyrDb2xbdanHAQOq64ZPqTlWwSlw-Iopi_3fE0n/s320/IMG_3522+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sydney as seen from the Manly Ferry</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUhgArnyfnzlxfqQHpd4tfV5GDKf_v0BmbVIO9Nm2sCLMNLh45dIhfu4ieMhfYZFHAp9fd-KIm7DZbkQPUlgqRB-sKNnjnMpmB0kbZjNF-R8Xx7FNegKBG1TTwsiZhRw_itQOmPfUZslAn/s1600/IMG_3565+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUhgArnyfnzlxfqQHpd4tfV5GDKf_v0BmbVIO9Nm2sCLMNLh45dIhfu4ieMhfYZFHAp9fd-KIm7DZbkQPUlgqRB-sKNnjnMpmB0kbZjNF-R8Xx7FNegKBG1TTwsiZhRw_itQOmPfUZslAn/s320/IMG_3565+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sydney Harbour Bridge at sunset</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0pTT_gVrT5Nh2PMGA4woJACk6r7qKWfrbpByGfSUBq5m0oFnHSHtwI0VcvpzZYuXwSYksfBlIsb49k421tW6_Hl7QWYwP3OEXz4N1l9ES-79HmTcWCEvmhEE7e-jJExbprqbsiMdHgNHa/s1600/IMG_3569+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0pTT_gVrT5Nh2PMGA4woJACk6r7qKWfrbpByGfSUBq5m0oFnHSHtwI0VcvpzZYuXwSYksfBlIsb49k421tW6_Hl7QWYwP3OEXz4N1l9ES-79HmTcWCEvmhEE7e-jJExbprqbsiMdHgNHa/s320/IMG_3569+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzIEwMp_hXpiOuKlEk1MPdYD7NTIGrbm5y01jfHg-rMHiaFro0E48HD1nlJ71LKo5LJKgPL9f4Klefm6VWqZy0BIUhoINQxo7aXkgpWvHOXVdfIMC8yBOVbwRapxRVQed_enT3Wo5b_Cgh/s1600/IMG_3587+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzIEwMp_hXpiOuKlEk1MPdYD7NTIGrbm5y01jfHg-rMHiaFro0E48HD1nlJ71LKo5LJKgPL9f4Klefm6VWqZy0BIUhoINQxo7aXkgpWvHOXVdfIMC8yBOVbwRapxRVQed_enT3Wo5b_Cgh/s320/IMG_3587+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was the view behind the stage of the opera Turandot</td></tr>
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LESSONS;<br />
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-If you are in a remote wilderness area in OZ (which was the case most of the time for us), make sure to check yourself for ticks and leeches. Also, keep your backpack zipped closed and give it a good shake before you take it with you.<br />
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-While exploring the Great Ocean Road, it is helpful to know the tour bus schedules so you can avoid crowds and enjoy the beautiful scenery in peace. In other words, get to the Twelve Apostles before 2 o'clock!</div>
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-If you ever find yourself spending time in Vivonne Bay, know that big bats begin flying around as the sun goes down. Do not leave any doors to the house open, even for a little while, at dusk.<br />
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QUOTES:<br />
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"Travel makes one modest. You see what a tiny place you occupy in the world." -Gustave Flaubert<br />
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"Traveling - it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller." - Battuta<br />
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<b>APRIL 20 - MAY 4, 2015</b><br />
<b>WHANGAREI, NEW ZEALAND</b><br />
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Since returning to New Zealand from Australia, Theo and I had been working on Et Voila every day so she would be ready to sail again. She was still out of the water at Norsand boatyard, so our minds were completely focused on finishing the work that had to be done and getting her back in the water as soon as possible. Sailing season begins in May and we wanted to be ready if a good weather window for our passage to Tonga presented itself.<br />
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In the midst of one of these focused work days, we received a phone call from our daughter, Stephanie. She had been taking care of our dog Isabel while we were gone, but she told us during the conversation that she would not be able to do it any longer because of her busy schedule. Isabel means the world to us, so this was a big problem.<br />
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It took Theo and I a few days of brainstorming to figure out the best solution to the situation, and in the end we made the difficult decision to return home for the season. It is such a crazy feeling to be full speed forward on a goal and then have to come to a full stop and completely change direction. One day we were preparing Et Voila for a sailing season in Tonga, and then just a few days later, we were taking down and storing her sails....that was surreal and painful for us. Of course, if we had a crystal ball and had foreseen that this would happen, we could have just flown Isabel to New Zealand and had her sail with us this season. Oh well, "would have, could have, should have"...blah, blah, blah. That's life for you...if nothing else, we continue to practice being flexible with our thinking and embracing Plan B when necessary.<br />
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Our boat is still out of the water and hopefully she will be alright that way for a little while longer...she was built for cruising after all and the shipyard in not an ideal place for her. We will skip one sailing season and Tonga will still be there next year. We truly miss Isabel and the times that we sailed with her were the best. Our idea is to have her fly back to New Zealand with us in November, prepare Et Voila for the water and then sail the Bay of Islands. We will see how all this unfolds as the time draws nearer, but for now we have accepted our change of plans and are grateful that we were able to have an amazing adventure in Australia.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9fcLEYJlkC6XCyt5pmBn6C1LPeTS5KXMuEaExEDaNqeywqlA4wP1XwgMchk6-tsNWv0CqOZ2eqkbXXK4MePwKBrGoiDlVMTDYY5xQNPWCBijSSlCiT1Mogklz0GRahsubdegKkk8kZR0N/s1600/IMG-20160319-WA0000.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9fcLEYJlkC6XCyt5pmBn6C1LPeTS5KXMuEaExEDaNqeywqlA4wP1XwgMchk6-tsNWv0CqOZ2eqkbXXK4MePwKBrGoiDlVMTDYY5xQNPWCBijSSlCiT1Mogklz0GRahsubdegKkk8kZR0N/s320/IMG-20160319-WA0000.JPG" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Isabel...a soon to be world traveler (again)</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHXCKJBcaj2N_Z5-_XzJ0VvyCbcfLRAqTULKYxhCsSCTMmpULSJ9jmJrJiBGxXz0r2DKtxMO3KTTxWLj5yhPGWXl7bXEgivuNP00v7OvYqhkEY9RdWSU7MjTRBKHNUHGT7C8pheh5KZ6c5/s1600/image1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHXCKJBcaj2N_Z5-_XzJ0VvyCbcfLRAqTULKYxhCsSCTMmpULSJ9jmJrJiBGxXz0r2DKtxMO3KTTxWLj5yhPGWXl7bXEgivuNP00v7OvYqhkEY9RdWSU7MjTRBKHNUHGT7C8pheh5KZ6c5/s320/image1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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LESSON:<br />
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-There is always a solution....keep your mind open and embrace Plan B.<br />
<br />
QUOTES:<br />
<br />
-"Once you have had a wonderful dog, a life without one, is a life diminished." - Dean Koontz<br />
<br />
-"I think dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love. For me, they are the role model for being alive." - Gilda Radner<br />
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03471059532461159422noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3358276371486559811.post-7965988103587136582015-10-17T19:25:00.000-07:002015-10-18T11:23:17.403-07:00Fulaga, Fiji<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b>SEPTEMBER 20 - OCTOBER 9, 2015<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 16.8667px;">FULAGA, </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">S</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">OUTHERN
LAU GROUP, FIJI</span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">The weather window we had
been waiting for finally arrived, so Theo and I sailed </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">the </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">48 hours to</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> Fulaga.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">We were
especially happy because our friends on the S/V Field Trip (Mark, Sarah,
Elizabeth and Michael) had also left Port Denarau for the same destination. We
knew we were going to have a fun time sharing our adventures in Fulaga with
them. A</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> few years ago Fiji's
Southern Lau Group was closed to visitors, so we were</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> all</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">felt very privileged</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> to be able to experience this remote island. We reached
the pass leading into the lagoon around noon and the tide was just right to
enter. It is always nerve-wracking to motor through a channel that is 60 yards
wide and lined with coral reef. We have done it so many times before, but our
hearts were racing until we were safely through it. Once inside, we took in our
first glimpse of Fulaga. I wil</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">l </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">never forget the feeling I
had as I tried to absorb my surroundings. It was astonishing and I had to pinch
myself to believe that I was </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">truly</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> there and seeing what I was
seeing. The lagoon of Fulaga is vast... about 10 miles wide and 5 miles across.
The water </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">was </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">a surreal color of mouthwash
blue and scattered everywhere</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> I saw</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> jagged rocks, mushroom
shaped islets and white sandy beaches lined with palm trees. I was standing on
the bow trying to help Theo navigate the coral</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">heads that appeared to be closer to the surface than they
actually were because of the crystal clear water. I tried to do my job and look
in the direction the boat was headed, but I kept getting distracted by the
view! Theo was yelling "Wanda, look forward please</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">!!”. </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">This was the loveliest place I had ever seen....</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">truly </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">magical.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">We anchored by the trail
that would lead us to</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">the main village</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> of
Muanaicake. </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Field Trip had arrived just
behind us and we all wanted to go to the chief's home right away to</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
introduce ourselves and present our offering of kava. </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The village is an easy 20 minute walk on a very pretty
dirt track. Along the way, we were greeted by villagers with a loud
"Bula" and gracious smiles. Everyone stopped to shake hands,</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> told
us their names</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> and welcome us to their
island. It seemed that no one was empty-handed. Women had sacks full of clams
strapped onto their backs and men carried baskets woven from palm leaves that
contained freshly caught fish. This was going to be fun!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We were always greeted with warm smiles along the trail</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtDluqBfTrPsvDg9nSJnZ1uL2s1L6QIy1Z1n80yzKc1MD0p3kIxijQYAZxPXHZdsCPHeSzHk5L4i-HdWxoXBbjvNv0va-BZQsPfDYYrlUcN3sow64t43XvNY94-GuNv7F-HJ4NzoT3Rsrs/s1600/P1010870+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtDluqBfTrPsvDg9nSJnZ1uL2s1L6QIy1Z1n80yzKc1MD0p3kIxijQYAZxPXHZdsCPHeSzHk5L4i-HdWxoXBbjvNv0va-BZQsPfDYYrlUcN3sow64t43XvNY94-GuNv7F-HJ4NzoT3Rsrs/s320/P1010870+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hand woven baskets full of freshly caught fish from the lagoon</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Muanaicake Village</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Once we</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> arrived at the </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">chief's</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> home, we left our shoes outside and sat in a semi-circle
on woven mats that were on the floor. He accepted our offering of kava and </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">began
the sevusevu ceremony by speaking </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">in Fijian for a few m</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">oments</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">. </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">He wanted to know where we had sailed from, so
wetold him, exchanged a few stories and signed our names in his guest book. He
then</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> asked if we would like to be assigned </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">to </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">a host family. This has become a common practice since
Fulaga was reopened to boaters a few years ago, so Theo and I said yes. We were
then introduced to Mere who, along with her husband Jone, would be our
"family" during our stay. She took us to her home and we sat on the
floor and talked about our lives and why we sailed to Fiji. She went on to tell
us about her village and the events that were going to take place</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> in the
weeks to come.</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Her cousin Bill was having
a </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">21<sup>st</sup>
</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">birthday celebration, there was a youth rally coming up
with singing competitions, a fundraiser for the school and a big lunch after
church on Sunday. We were welcomed with open arms and it was clear from the
beginning that we were going to be very busy!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW_AiN6W4AHi5x75JPVWT71jn5XkHUbiCpqcc7-AO63Btg9zDAReD7oucfqpgSbKmGNA55ctLw5tlhgQEztv0HARK8dhZrXQ58SJqaoT41Bsh2NwbVHmSGFZVbS3Us7_y0hZMUnLzfk6uH/s1600/P1010764+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW_AiN6W4AHi5x75JPVWT71jn5XkHUbiCpqcc7-AO63Btg9zDAReD7oucfqpgSbKmGNA55ctLw5tlhgQEztv0HARK8dhZrXQ58SJqaoT41Bsh2NwbVHmSGFZVbS3Us7_y0hZMUnLzfk6uH/s320/P1010764+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This photo was taken after our sevusevu ceremony...the chief is sitting next to Theo</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8HrLMfZBEciVVIOpWCY9d36MHjfDBRRErL_xARkXAmg0RbL6KU54rZQC5rfQLwJMlGOT48rldKbiFvDrERixm_suoJgZvy2SL8Axw6NdGc7gP14wyknrTFr5DJ-A9N7pSFW8PXvsud1Ei/s1600/P1010766+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8HrLMfZBEciVVIOpWCY9d36MHjfDBRRErL_xARkXAmg0RbL6KU54rZQC5rfQLwJMlGOT48rldKbiFvDrERixm_suoJgZvy2SL8Axw6NdGc7gP14wyknrTFr5DJ-A9N7pSFW8PXvsud1Ei/s320/P1010766+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mere and Jone's home</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDM8ay86kTxn82NxvZHYvh8ii4MxV1MRmIiP01hc2hE9KlEbd95YUO-5IDEgo9FZ5olb-fP0f0HUf_oxadf2vdZ4uRZUQ7DlTb3VxuVZRB5r5uoq_vZmUXUv4Vc1e6SiBv-6MbR6FPi1uo/s1600/P1020351+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDM8ay86kTxn82NxvZHYvh8ii4MxV1MRmIiP01hc2hE9KlEbd95YUO-5IDEgo9FZ5olb-fP0f0HUf_oxadf2vdZ4uRZUQ7DlTb3VxuVZRB5r5uoq_vZmUXUv4Vc1e6SiBv-6MbR6FPi1uo/s320/P1020351+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hiking with Mere</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNUpb1xWWXq7r8sHAisxCmmpVA8kfNfyDB2OkDawAH36MRL4ZAk57nrV4hViqH4oj1LxDkeO4jIs5cWwTDsBif0rpuB3AtuFbCRyFOyWVGdviMWbnjrv_WKL0WKPotGsDFVDdEJ-7iRdEV/s1600/P1020587+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNUpb1xWWXq7r8sHAisxCmmpVA8kfNfyDB2OkDawAH36MRL4ZAk57nrV4hViqH4oj1LxDkeO4jIs5cWwTDsBif0rpuB3AtuFbCRyFOyWVGdviMWbnjrv_WKL0WKPotGsDFVDdEJ-7iRdEV/s320/P1020587+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mere with her grandmother</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqN-ha6AGbz5zm824Fu7QJWChB12jQLUNxG5Kb1GOaj-l0rBdEGJGLM8bkOmA6c9d_bP32vfHynN_tBQRkIroSMXGxSX_a1_8-1kpeMHiWbgm_I4NT2PY1LIJV05vyiZJlAMJh2jOl2nYn/s1600/P1010976+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqN-ha6AGbz5zm824Fu7QJWChB12jQLUNxG5Kb1GOaj-l0rBdEGJGLM8bkOmA6c9d_bP32vfHynN_tBQRkIroSMXGxSX_a1_8-1kpeMHiWbgm_I4NT2PY1LIJV05vyiZJlAMJh2jOl2nYn/s320/P1010976+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These drums are a traditional call to church on Sundays</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3cXiBQso7Iv8NxoIjrhHaesNdol3Irwzqo9mgjvJv6qJOUiNKHb-OTHvpQZGJqPGNuIxX4CX0ZA-j78F23PlGhVDWw8QnsocImQmIK1ZKiFkwoqIfwE1V5-blQwxjFZdVhxvkMx3fuX4x/s1600/P1010990+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3cXiBQso7Iv8NxoIjrhHaesNdol3Irwzqo9mgjvJv6qJOUiNKHb-OTHvpQZGJqPGNuIxX4CX0ZA-j78F23PlGhVDWw8QnsocImQmIK1ZKiFkwoqIfwE1V5-blQwxjFZdVhxvkMx3fuX4x/s320/P1010990+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Preparing for a big, traditional lunch after church on Sunday with Mere and her family...I brought a pasta dish made with fresh scallops that Theo gathered from the lagoon. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8Yj3JVM7zTVj3LOWSJeRNI-2db2AmOpEUN_ijC964agFVcnqz03XeEAQedzGt_OjwoLdl6s8EgCIDW-FVDyhthmLmJgJE5EIVtI6CrI6gHI0QrnEp7E_vczYeR0kjsqaCWWsujhbuKdYy/s1600/P1010911+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8Yj3JVM7zTVj3LOWSJeRNI-2db2AmOpEUN_ijC964agFVcnqz03XeEAQedzGt_OjwoLdl6s8EgCIDW-FVDyhthmLmJgJE5EIVtI6CrI6gHI0QrnEp7E_vczYeR0kjsqaCWWsujhbuKdYy/s320/P1010911+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> In Fiji they have a big celebration for the 1st birthday and 21st birthday...this photo was taken at Bill's party.</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">Fulaga is the ultimate
disconnect. You will find no cell phone reception or internet here...as a
matter of fact, there </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">are </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">no </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">cars,
motorcycles, stores, </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">electricity, running water
or flushing toilets. </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">We saw some solar panels that were used to charge
batteries which in turn powered the lights and maybe a television. The
television was for education in the school and for watching rugby matches. </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">Amazingly, despite these conditions, I never got a
feeling that they were in need of anything. Ironically, they were always very
generous to </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">us</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">! They exude happiness, calm
and are always laughing</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> their high pitched laughs</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">. Their graciousness is humbling and I am in awe of how
they make the most of what they have on the island. The lagoon is their
"garden" and they rely heavily on the abundant clams, scallops,
octopus and fish to sustain them. It seems that everything that is caught or
grown is share</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">d</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> among the entire village.
Only a few families have ovens for cooking and most meals are prepared in an </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">underground</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> earth oven called a Lovo. Large aluminum pots that are
balanced on coconut husks over a fire are </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">also </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">used to make stews. They are able to grow cassava, but not much
else</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> that
requires watering</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">. The mango trees have
fruit, but it seems that the bats gobble</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> it before it’s ripe. Another staple in their
diet is </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">coconuts...</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">there
are </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">soooo many coconuts!</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSbzL1jVvHwHrTLE2Je3agjuEff5Uwa3k2RfSUG8Rsh9kE-8XrCkOwtNwtQU1U-AT96FwEx_S9i5fP_4vk97Ft7za-rMQy2lbZMYj-NAE_J3Kvdc9SHL8HcTi0ODI2sJI4Y6lhY9C2K1Rd/s1600/P1010919+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSbzL1jVvHwHrTLE2Je3agjuEff5Uwa3k2RfSUG8Rsh9kE-8XrCkOwtNwtQU1U-AT96FwEx_S9i5fP_4vk97Ft7za-rMQy2lbZMYj-NAE_J3Kvdc9SHL8HcTi0ODI2sJI4Y6lhY9C2K1Rd/s320/P1010919+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pumata was on her boat every day gathering clams and hunting for octopus.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpBuqe9pf0FLKoKJlZr54DDP991GezUyFSu0TEhx3wBvqPYxYgN9Vwf4xhUnhEAfIxeKhYS1Puk2jQZLtM6LyIqMTH1VX7KWNK0ZVncOfDs4gh5woaJPktFqxL0p4gMw_l97zt-VtYeju6/s1600/P1010922+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpBuqe9pf0FLKoKJlZr54DDP991GezUyFSu0TEhx3wBvqPYxYgN9Vwf4xhUnhEAfIxeKhYS1Puk2jQZLtM6LyIqMTH1VX7KWNK0ZVncOfDs4gh5woaJPktFqxL0p4gMw_l97zt-VtYeju6/s320/P1010922+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE4k_Dgj6J1DN3NreAYdCoBIzNaTZ-i1kaRxLObeaFaDomUsri-KGz0iq8e2tx7ii-8SXVhYyYOOhgpAOHzY9Vls6LwxzqulA0uVONIAvzMGjyXvNLiSv40xB2PvGuVBE4OX7WNMPMPsqZ/s1600/P1010786+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE4k_Dgj6J1DN3NreAYdCoBIzNaTZ-i1kaRxLObeaFaDomUsri-KGz0iq8e2tx7ii-8SXVhYyYOOhgpAOHzY9Vls6LwxzqulA0uVONIAvzMGjyXvNLiSv40xB2PvGuVBE4OX7WNMPMPsqZ/s320/P1010786+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo could not get over the fact that he could find clams in the sand whenever he wanted!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Soki and his catch</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDM78fQCVCzXHta8fR2-NqdHdSCGKfq8YCVHXOyxu06hOMpoPVLt0VCBT8x2frQXNEO6gwMWyqztqF6crhbdr6W_Fe5wHyao8V4Sn1_n36VtxeBUDC12EMO67JyF6Z9cP6VSkovAoL5_eO/s1600/P1020281+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDM78fQCVCzXHta8fR2-NqdHdSCGKfq8YCVHXOyxu06hOMpoPVLt0VCBT8x2frQXNEO6gwMWyqztqF6crhbdr6W_Fe5wHyao8V4Sn1_n36VtxeBUDC12EMO67JyF6Z9cP6VSkovAoL5_eO/s320/P1020281+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mere and Theo tried desperately to get cell phone service after we hiked up to the look out...no luck though.</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">A </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">supply</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> ship from Suva comes into
the lagoon once a month to deliver supplies to the villages. It is a very big
deal when that day arrives and we were lucky enough to be there when it came in
September. Many of the people</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> in Fulaga</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> have
relatives living in Suva, therefore they spend </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">a </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">lot of time preparing clams, catching fish, weaving
baskets and carving wooden </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">souvenirs</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> to send
back to them. There </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">was a lot of excited </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">chatter </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">going </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">around the village </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">in
anticipation of the </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">ship</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">’s
arrival. </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">The</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> island
has </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">a very steep</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">, rocky</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> trail
that leads to a lookout with a spectacular view of the entire lagoon and the
pass leading out to the ocean. Men from the village waited up there to catch
sight of the ship and when they saw it approaching they would yell
"Selo!". Then children who were waiting down below would run on the
trail leading from the village to the beach that overlooked the anchorage
exclaiming "Selo, Selo!".</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> I don’t understand Fijian, but I was pretty sure
they were saying that the boat was close by. There were many people waiting on
the beach and there was a lot of</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> excitement in the air...we
got caught up in it as well! When the ship finally arrive</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">d</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> it was almost dark. Men worked </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">throughout</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> the night and into the early morning loading and
unloading supplies. There were large barrels of fuel, staples for cooking such
as flour, sugar and rice, and off course the most anticipated item.....KAVA.
Drinking kava is a daily event in Fulaga...for about two weeks. That is how
long it takes them to drink it all</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> up</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">, and then they are left
waiting two weeks without kava for the next </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">supply</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> ship to bring more. Come
on...moderation guys!</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN3KiYOXK7vrQ3gi-MdghuQmsjuptbiIuXDkb7k4KsdA0G1spzibFFT5PkgXnTYVJFITinrEhlQAaB0peuAMm0w-Qs6GsDz-iM_b9nZdHheG50Ax2ewrFvHileUCsZk5cQmztKdequPJGg/s1600/P1010879+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN3KiYOXK7vrQ3gi-MdghuQmsjuptbiIuXDkb7k4KsdA0G1spzibFFT5PkgXnTYVJFITinrEhlQAaB0peuAMm0w-Qs6GsDz-iM_b9nZdHheG50Ax2ewrFvHileUCsZk5cQmztKdequPJGg/s320/P1010879+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Collecting clams</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg83ULBWgfMsmxhD6zrFVqWvaU5as_jjlzE-Vf_lsg1-a41knkvYOjbel4xRFfUVk01nCqkQxXJP1Q3bVmlciEND_3xaRLTghg9NdATfsZw0kuZ4znBgYJKhzpVesM7pCmuw3nqVit6XWq1/s1600/P1010874+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg83ULBWgfMsmxhD6zrFVqWvaU5as_jjlzE-Vf_lsg1-a41knkvYOjbel4xRFfUVk01nCqkQxXJP1Q3bVmlciEND_3xaRLTghg9NdATfsZw0kuZ4znBgYJKhzpVesM7pCmuw3nqVit6XWq1/s320/P1010874+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cleaning clams</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHi_uPFCj2IBUKnvh-EZR-8UPFMkcN9xUx4Qq_xEcuHymXJyWjvlY6qcM3lIlZvVk_NsRBmBfu8ivVadS77mqCot0lGX0jXVxxVadyRgnOAXJ23g4mF98ubzshCFsrMzWZUXErjzaoQ5FC/s1600/P1010849+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHi_uPFCj2IBUKnvh-EZR-8UPFMkcN9xUx4Qq_xEcuHymXJyWjvlY6qcM3lIlZvVk_NsRBmBfu8ivVadS77mqCot0lGX0jXVxxVadyRgnOAXJ23g4mF98ubzshCFsrMzWZUXErjzaoQ5FC/s320/P1010849+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pumata cooking her clams that would later be packaged and sent on the supply ship to family in Suva.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqmrNif2PficntouphBar49uB8ESk48EsVsylDd1qkE7MEHykLIR-c80IQagBph-Cc0dWFL0AZm-wfxWZWUOXo2i8VMWiEbJU76T9owcJZMvKO3koROLimFOmtEhmvcdPpuWOu2mQOLrfn/s1600/P1010888+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqmrNif2PficntouphBar49uB8ESk48EsVsylDd1qkE7MEHykLIR-c80IQagBph-Cc0dWFL0AZm-wfxWZWUOXo2i8VMWiEbJU76T9owcJZMvKO3koROLimFOmtEhmvcdPpuWOu2mQOLrfn/s320/P1010888+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Children waiting for the ship to arrive</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwKJdU4PFOVyp6gFQqX0hluRpFwxaNz1esLOhF2YtH2zruiosRGLvA7979zF9-WPkSoJRAG6m3ZACWrVPWJ7qh5xk0oP_JWIoEtClNKnlOqmE53oshvdGwuvA2N9bWV65GrtMOVPI1mBVM/s1600/P1010872+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwKJdU4PFOVyp6gFQqX0hluRpFwxaNz1esLOhF2YtH2zruiosRGLvA7979zF9-WPkSoJRAG6m3ZACWrVPWJ7qh5xk0oP_JWIoEtClNKnlOqmE53oshvdGwuvA2N9bWV65GrtMOVPI1mBVM/s320/P1010872+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Until the last possible moment, men continued to bring in freshly caught fish for the supply ship </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHSBXqM-WWAEowAk5vU3v060F09xn7VFLNuh65qorKBjsJbYSyH_pEXC-MNV37-8JhKcGr33i5CEORAUXsFrLDVFU8h9Xm5wILrAV3A4oUEKEi1uXItTVlLlBbjY6oTcgeH5jz4mRWhx-n/s1600/P1010904+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHSBXqM-WWAEowAk5vU3v060F09xn7VFLNuh65qorKBjsJbYSyH_pEXC-MNV37-8JhKcGr33i5CEORAUXsFrLDVFU8h9Xm5wILrAV3A4oUEKEi1uXItTVlLlBbjY6oTcgeH5jz4mRWhx-n/s320/P1010904+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joe waiting patiently</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3XW-aXA2gdXV2NNJ_6VqZIo7sGXv7z0o28Y1oSISuQEn8Ee12qLT5ecuRit2XZcILWgtocCj-PdyyFMelk3fyQXHtmAhMoOydeCfir_DJgbiHnyihWzxgJjtRDTxkPFTcoe7U8k1ogP0d/s1600/P1010903+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3XW-aXA2gdXV2NNJ_6VqZIo7sGXv7z0o28Y1oSISuQEn8Ee12qLT5ecuRit2XZcILWgtocCj-PdyyFMelk3fyQXHtmAhMoOydeCfir_DJgbiHnyihWzxgJjtRDTxkPFTcoe7U8k1ogP0d/s320/P1010903+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The ship finally arrived at dusk. This boat also transports people from the Lau Group to Suva and visa versa. The trip takes four days and there are no sleeping quarters or food. In my opinion, that is motivation to stay put!</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">There were six boats
anchored in Fulaga. We were a diverse group coming from all over the world. Et
Voila and Field Trip were from the United States and the others were from
France, Australia, New Zealand and Denmark. One</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> day </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">we had an unforgettable picnic with the other cruisers
and their host families. Each boat picked up a handful of people from the
village and motored over to the Sand Spitz. The Sand Spitz is is a popular
anchorage with a stunning</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">, long</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> white sand beach littered
with palm trees...ideal for the occasion. We all brought something to
contribute to the pot luck, but I am still stunned at recalling what the
Fijians brought. All they had with them were some onions, garlic, flour, sugar,
big aluminum pots, matches, fishing nets and a machete. As soon as their feet
hit the beach they began fishing, gathering clams and catching crabs in the </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">mangroves</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">. It was an amazing sight! The whole thing was very
organized and every person was busy with their particular task. One man dug a
hole for the Lovo (earth oven), one woman began cutting down palm leaves to lay
down as a picnic </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">blanket</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">, another
began chopping onions and garlic to put in the pots for fish stew. Coconuts
were gathered, cracked, shredded and then hand squeezed into </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">insanely</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> creamy coconut milk. The remainder of the shredded
coconut was mixed with flour, sugar and water and then wrapped into palm leaves
and put in the Lovo to cook. This turns into a dense and delicious coconut
bread that is traditional at every meal. Before long we had fish, crabs and
clams galore....scrumptiously bubbling in pots over an open flame with
vegetables an</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">d rich </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">coconut milk. We all sat on
our blanket of palm tree leaves, feasted on decadent seafood with our fingers,
told stories and laughed a lot. </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">It</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> was a very special day that
will not be forgotten.</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">..ever.</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRrOvicqNB_DFShAfJuWb1jU0-qSnwcxiy2m_i5ksIRk03XvsRic4-MwB3xcovIpmtMPxTW0CQpLPIiyBW4ouUABK5o3reWbScav_SWks398OJk9FCaBO7PxYr1_LtfTvS5jMhFbxJAd3q/s1600/P1020082+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRrOvicqNB_DFShAfJuWb1jU0-qSnwcxiy2m_i5ksIRk03XvsRic4-MwB3xcovIpmtMPxTW0CQpLPIiyBW4ouUABK5o3reWbScav_SWks398OJk9FCaBO7PxYr1_LtfTvS5jMhFbxJAd3q/s320/P1020082+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo and Bale walking to the mangroves to hunt for crabs</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Sand Spitz anchorage</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Women fishing with nets</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bale and her mangrove crab</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaP6m6_Y701e6yMJV43L2Inqfz5ChVkYGiVPbZ11zYyW4T0KgcUiUtgxSeEWy8QN2ikngZdD3tcAV3NbWGxlMKvAlKs6MyzziMGA7TRMNKV-CdfT93zoPNMyQy_JxHvF6-TAfLhwJWD1Iu/s1600/P1020215+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaP6m6_Y701e6yMJV43L2Inqfz5ChVkYGiVPbZ11zYyW4T0KgcUiUtgxSeEWy8QN2ikngZdD3tcAV3NbWGxlMKvAlKs6MyzziMGA7TRMNKV-CdfT93zoPNMyQy_JxHvF6-TAfLhwJWD1Iu/s320/P1020215+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yikes!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Michael, crab (in the tree), Lutu and Elizabeth</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxlQPIIyKjo0ZcviADDf9olsUdT7b9QcJP3eV4nyXmPszAD3jm25FZ0gUuHnjR9yrf_RHDyPoXp8JgwV5UXUsho8OFQLi4fQkCbVjRGsM30ni-lAAQycNd5iEE2lyOZAv0DYJpxxpzVby3/s1600/P1020207+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxlQPIIyKjo0ZcviADDf9olsUdT7b9QcJP3eV4nyXmPszAD3jm25FZ0gUuHnjR9yrf_RHDyPoXp8JgwV5UXUsho8OFQLi4fQkCbVjRGsM30ni-lAAQycNd5iEE2lyOZAv0DYJpxxpzVby3/s320/P1020207+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Preparing vegetables for fish stew</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBPQoxUKJI-lfVnV3V7RvuK4twiHaZxijo45QUqCNvl2R89km-FRow1mK1GTfu2fK9k6H7abuQTe8d8eLXDdVv-rdEoFTjf8Iu6riPZ5uzAq2CrvcDXeOtT0grxw3ZlWgnyLF-hKH_7zRX/s1600/P1020203+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBPQoxUKJI-lfVnV3V7RvuK4twiHaZxijo45QUqCNvl2R89km-FRow1mK1GTfu2fK9k6H7abuQTe8d8eLXDdVv-rdEoFTjf8Iu6riPZ5uzAq2CrvcDXeOtT0grxw3ZlWgnyLF-hKH_7zRX/s320/P1020203+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hand squeezing freshly shredded coconut into insanely creamy coconut milk</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXcL0prFFb-xIizvhH6NFYYnQCAjklc4SvleO9rVVL4qoRE6zY9re-vBOJ3u1KN24zuEkFNDLtHPunxhll-81wVuNp3J-j33kudxIC6gqUiKDyroHpbPND_jaI22EfoxP-V8WhGSmARq38/s1600/P1020224+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXcL0prFFb-xIizvhH6NFYYnQCAjklc4SvleO9rVVL4qoRE6zY9re-vBOJ3u1KN24zuEkFNDLtHPunxhll-81wVuNp3J-j33kudxIC6gqUiKDyroHpbPND_jaI22EfoxP-V8WhGSmARq38/s320/P1020224+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coconut bread just coming out of the lovo (earth oven)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our picnic...what a feast!</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">Field Trip's host family was
a couple named Lutu and Bale. </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">Bale has expressive eyes and a big smile. She
also has that aura of serenity and pride that I love so much about the Fijian
women. Lutu has a fun personality and shares Theo’s quirky sense of humor...so
they got along especially well together. We really enjoyed their company and
became quite attached to them. </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">One day we met on Lutu's
property (which is exploding with coconuts) to make coconut oil. We gathered
about 40 coconuts</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> and </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">Theo and Mark husked them
until they had blisters on their hands! Then </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">we</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> cracked, shredded and squeezed</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> them</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> into coconut milk. Two large pots full of the milk were
set over flames to boil for about 3 hours. After this, the oil was strained through a piece of palm fiber into a bowl. Bottles were then filled using a funnel made out out palm leaves. The end result
was three clean wine bottles filled with pure</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">, golden</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> coconut oil. This is what the Fijian women use as a
moisturizer </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">for their skin </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">and hair.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> I will
never look at a coconut the same again...</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">what a
great day!</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_NzCwQvEgPu_dz_Tfl5Xy1hxGTC-RzO3dkxd8EwgE34lte3PU0eY3W7SRzNbUtf28qgVuE7M7s-0xW5XxxvDLcWXY5_jF4SegbdM7fP1XBNeAorZGx9nnK_xQ123fU-UhF5bjJWeKavx3/s1600/P1020299+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_NzCwQvEgPu_dz_Tfl5Xy1hxGTC-RzO3dkxd8EwgE34lte3PU0eY3W7SRzNbUtf28qgVuE7M7s-0xW5XxxvDLcWXY5_jF4SegbdM7fP1XBNeAorZGx9nnK_xQ123fU-UhF5bjJWeKavx3/s320/P1020299+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bale and Sarah outside of Bale and Lutu's home</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbPd4TLyFcLmJ06Y1xs1txsTSN_xfMUUCsUpPyzCbKf94VcmAUWqETsmzYWqVNUIuuwImUiroFafbjgELCCL5fpBxx5oXtGFX8c2YzdLWf3O2dlhWTkeWKzCY1AuxTXpy0t2GfY6bZ-TiC/s1600/P1010743+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbPd4TLyFcLmJ06Y1xs1txsTSN_xfMUUCsUpPyzCbKf94VcmAUWqETsmzYWqVNUIuuwImUiroFafbjgELCCL5fpBxx5oXtGFX8c2YzdLWf3O2dlhWTkeWKzCY1AuxTXpy0t2GfY6bZ-TiC/s320/P1010743+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lutu giving Theo a ride on his Proa</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhImQP8vfJnrx2sEpl5emZkv5iyIsFX3a-uH1col9HVoaYt7uAYHnJ8RKAQ_t2vrY3IENYOFEZril1cTFHdSEa_46uZ-495EvjS-Q9mbiXyWS8BMa13jxz_MPG24XX_g4YaIe4Syz_k3MLn/s1600/P1020069+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhImQP8vfJnrx2sEpl5emZkv5iyIsFX3a-uH1col9HVoaYt7uAYHnJ8RKAQ_t2vrY3IENYOFEZril1cTFHdSEa_46uZ-495EvjS-Q9mbiXyWS8BMa13jxz_MPG24XX_g4YaIe4Syz_k3MLn/s320/P1020069+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lutu almost always had a smile on his face! Here he is with his catch of the day... a boxfish,.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh7yDzg-orNYawEVF_m-1kF8G-aR6DoqjXAMkwppo4sOFLu6mZRBLj2Dty1-k_5Eq1zjJDfv-rMksliwJD_4Am8MX2qEtvsfMnCXTYuziDCHF8S6SGHScSlUiSFnWtwhd7epEkLJElBLJL/s1600/P1020364+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh7yDzg-orNYawEVF_m-1kF8G-aR6DoqjXAMkwppo4sOFLu6mZRBLj2Dty1-k_5Eq1zjJDfv-rMksliwJD_4Am8MX2qEtvsfMnCXTYuziDCHF8S6SGHScSlUiSFnWtwhd7epEkLJElBLJL/s320/P1020364+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view from Lutu's property where we made the coconut oil</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7pwTXHdQHOoILXGtMIIBHK-nSw4MB1nSYiIopymXP1oORwgmEAk2OmcDxL1tndLMzD0-r4vN6wlWYRzI4RmlTigSDSQ_sqFOY60F2MyK2ZWGb2WyJxXFnwsvYQuYE9WZ7vFHd-gEjUoSG/s1600/P1020379+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7pwTXHdQHOoILXGtMIIBHK-nSw4MB1nSYiIopymXP1oORwgmEAk2OmcDxL1tndLMzD0-r4vN6wlWYRzI4RmlTigSDSQ_sqFOY60F2MyK2ZWGb2WyJxXFnwsvYQuYE9WZ7vFHd-gEjUoSG/s320/P1020379+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Husking the coconuts</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhChl0OYZP0fiEMD6f6YVbaVCg8Z_Zbgim_AMBx60aqTJcy96hp1F2Yp-kJ-H-UBt1Wr_nizVjPpCFedmcCn841vPY1q0gjB7sPbKUZaIr7QaHvgzCCfZ1_bRduk6Q04ucU9Jdly9DUnV-c/s1600/P1020394+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhChl0OYZP0fiEMD6f6YVbaVCg8Z_Zbgim_AMBx60aqTJcy96hp1F2Yp-kJ-H-UBt1Wr_nizVjPpCFedmcCn841vPY1q0gjB7sPbKUZaIr7QaHvgzCCfZ1_bRduk6Q04ucU9Jdly9DUnV-c/s320/P1020394+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cracking the coconuts</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8k0YlDtR_MO3rT6KHhWAZWE84SwjPGRYzucXoe6oZ737M_0cXWInv3WwEBCdkUEK3jDjxKVs0Yz6oTkBKnJMBsFAUX3G-1yfaBwoomLeC4-ZMH5NUwuMGsGh8swO17POjuerUn88cYFY-/s1600/P1020396+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8k0YlDtR_MO3rT6KHhWAZWE84SwjPGRYzucXoe6oZ737M_0cXWInv3WwEBCdkUEK3jDjxKVs0Yz6oTkBKnJMBsFAUX3G-1yfaBwoomLeC4-ZMH5NUwuMGsGh8swO17POjuerUn88cYFY-/s320/P1020396+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shredding the coconuts</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimQROKMXZf0BorcHbycjVXcm62u8y21xirsR_o3sW_a4CiHjOWqDnwqSSe2okJYQUb_NhmbHf6AvEFDL8MWJoFdiQJAYUyTFB4b7tmKXANjS_LPOP8dPJdZ9l_ZnWLPmT8mW4owzzKc5Cd/s1600/P1020450+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimQROKMXZf0BorcHbycjVXcm62u8y21xirsR_o3sW_a4CiHjOWqDnwqSSe2okJYQUb_NhmbHf6AvEFDL8MWJoFdiQJAYUyTFB4b7tmKXANjS_LPOP8dPJdZ9l_ZnWLPmT8mW4owzzKc5Cd/s320/P1020450+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Squeezing the shredded coconut into milk</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1NRe014TG6Wb4-paZsWSsNwQ8MLMy4hGPQ4Hnk728wrm_99E_DYa4vK8UdqcypTwMI9Gm-4QVQLMe2knJukXnOp9YF0AUjcR3yJecEAKCOeh0VDIr9DEp71fhHakjQJI-Ywrr-nJwemHH/s1600/P1020475+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1NRe014TG6Wb4-paZsWSsNwQ8MLMy4hGPQ4Hnk728wrm_99E_DYa4vK8UdqcypTwMI9Gm-4QVQLMe2knJukXnOp9YF0AUjcR3yJecEAKCOeh0VDIr9DEp71fhHakjQJI-Ywrr-nJwemHH/s320/P1020475+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boiling the coconut milk</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj92F4eEw99RLyEwY4YaZbsd4vsUcnfF50wTOz3Ezt0OlECCISRdhTPFX-QGQZBIOXZBBelowBw17vt68Q-sMjtlTmQ0fJwcGrmK3wsFRNijeGrGfLcSmtKbV4WCwwV_tCB5aAanAuuPpiR/s1600/P1020485+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj92F4eEw99RLyEwY4YaZbsd4vsUcnfF50wTOz3Ezt0OlECCISRdhTPFX-QGQZBIOXZBBelowBw17vt68Q-sMjtlTmQ0fJwcGrmK3wsFRNijeGrGfLcSmtKbV4WCwwV_tCB5aAanAuuPpiR/s320/P1020485+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Straining the oil</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpNQetj7AOU_sV-h5hOAjeIkYpcnl6iiHC4IsWB4gH-pe9CdLqJ3YXBYMa3CyJms7Yq2bODeSAO7CgyOsvBxxWaoxIdJXjFAsBz9P7i6HS8RE2rITyWpJm2Z-gJ-DkqIqTew9-vBIJtBLP/s1600/P1020488+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpNQetj7AOU_sV-h5hOAjeIkYpcnl6iiHC4IsWB4gH-pe9CdLqJ3YXBYMa3CyJms7Yq2bODeSAO7CgyOsvBxxWaoxIdJXjFAsBz9P7i6HS8RE2rITyWpJm2Z-gJ-DkqIqTew9-vBIJtBLP/s320/P1020488+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We used fiber from a palm tree for a strainer</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpqllfXwsO_up47Wjdpx4Xjtv2H-cbf4-wDHRDy0-7XQQX3MrwowARVpJC1RP6WBMyZJLs8PNVpSdMuu5HRGIZEQFzQ9LOYkwCtbS3hHxwbA-Q2ILUgEGobJVQ9p2iyF67D_QUhfwjn00n/s1600/P1020490+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpqllfXwsO_up47Wjdpx4Xjtv2H-cbf4-wDHRDy0-7XQQX3MrwowARVpJC1RP6WBMyZJLs8PNVpSdMuu5HRGIZEQFzQ9LOYkwCtbS3hHxwbA-Q2ILUgEGobJVQ9p2iyF67D_QUhfwjn00n/s320/P1020490+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Then Lutu made a funnel out of a palm leaf to pour the oil into the bottles</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZw1lJ-oihEQf5Mce7bwBbv395w-ODDXSSCcm2AHR1WeRbfhTbVOMJ4tDizrIXPfJDaECZ6028Td72x9cMCZcDKuHdsQ-qxXMReVOikpNZHzfnR5J3O4CeH2tRs6Ny8R2G9D8zWpLb7R31/s1600/P1020360+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZw1lJ-oihEQf5Mce7bwBbv395w-ODDXSSCcm2AHR1WeRbfhTbVOMJ4tDizrIXPfJDaECZ6028Td72x9cMCZcDKuHdsQ-qxXMReVOikpNZHzfnR5J3O4CeH2tRs6Ny8R2G9D8zWpLb7R31/s320/P1020360+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lutu digging a hole for the lovo (earth oven)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0TZWgiEbBQcoAEyw1xB-ZsHaABUyj6s3e2zKGXkKiVeZZcTcHMipWCSWcIjctPAVUgbNG2FqUpYn7EJcfnz6yCZades2mEC2BtxDw_ZcyBMcw_JPdIX472KRqeCvf-8rOsIv-YD7TRTPW/s1600/P1020421+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0TZWgiEbBQcoAEyw1xB-ZsHaABUyj6s3e2zKGXkKiVeZZcTcHMipWCSWcIjctPAVUgbNG2FqUpYn7EJcfnz6yCZades2mEC2BtxDw_ZcyBMcw_JPdIX472KRqeCvf-8rOsIv-YD7TRTPW/s320/P1020421+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sarah and Lutu preparing coconut bread for our lunch. Some of the dough was wrapped in palm leaves and some was put into emptied coconut shells.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicxT-yvc7cCL6XHMBONFHzBAyoEhMwh_ykU2pmwalLuE0c6clVUHHjjOyoyr38socQUd2a3taXYQ8eu9ZQF5g1T-ijorRR1p7-os-ykdkcb7zJMXhzULI_7HzyDYARKXT2zh27bUZmPXGU/s1600/P1020424+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicxT-yvc7cCL6XHMBONFHzBAyoEhMwh_ykU2pmwalLuE0c6clVUHHjjOyoyr38socQUd2a3taXYQ8eu9ZQF5g1T-ijorRR1p7-os-ykdkcb7zJMXhzULI_7HzyDYARKXT2zh27bUZmPXGU/s320/P1020424+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRet_h4f7FQI88oAAxUhsxUPD1Z06sb1cSsrcZPxsxQiloomDkUOq5jbRfefbP7Z0pjMtlziOb2essbiPS47A8arr_Tv85HBnvGAKxKETuXaBTTOr63H04ae_4eyVN0QNXUY9OD7mRXjrn/s1600/P1020411+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRet_h4f7FQI88oAAxUhsxUPD1Z06sb1cSsrcZPxsxQiloomDkUOq5jbRfefbP7Z0pjMtlziOb2essbiPS47A8arr_Tv85HBnvGAKxKETuXaBTTOr63H04ae_4eyVN0QNXUY9OD7mRXjrn/s320/P1020411+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sarah and Mere covering the lovo while our bread was cooking inside it</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ1jVCM6d8VNAHG8KLLilIZdqoyr4Ov0j5qx1g1uN2CuiHsbNCTCKdbA_4ddyO9gSbJI7YvyCz2DqdyXKcoVnM5w_w0zsUUdxWu7AVsBW6gM7T9eRAqyclYJwBp0Vf09voD13fI3WI0mhh/s1600/P1020459+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ1jVCM6d8VNAHG8KLLilIZdqoyr4Ov0j5qx1g1uN2CuiHsbNCTCKdbA_4ddyO9gSbJI7YvyCz2DqdyXKcoVnM5w_w0zsUUdxWu7AVsBW6gM7T9eRAqyclYJwBp0Vf09voD13fI3WI0mhh/s320/P1020459+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After a few hours in the lovo, our bread was ready...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhl2y1E-D6b2JHJWLEdl_-5XGq2rNvXEKwLW8JHQH7ie0Az7m_F-02hto-PR0Ezd3UFQ2N9gRm04Ye8aVzFeMxqYY69WaW53MmSjwF3iwIbbfHTx6cGmQW7C9QPvm9BdS_i2t3yI2KfGLf/s1600/P1020460+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhl2y1E-D6b2JHJWLEdl_-5XGq2rNvXEKwLW8JHQH7ie0Az7m_F-02hto-PR0Ezd3UFQ2N9gRm04Ye8aVzFeMxqYY69WaW53MmSjwF3iwIbbfHTx6cGmQW7C9QPvm9BdS_i2t3yI2KfGLf/s320/P1020460+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gorgeous and delicious!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSRUvbXOg1K9rlSlSAbCuNljqgETgUW3WCkpOSVqc_up5LscV198TNey11pl63um6zaL5BUA8csxHTInjDnJvNLLVttEIfAdL1XmEFVfSQAzp2KApwXfktBJRWn-oU_klNotB_9SfxkLCw/s1600/P1020508+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSRUvbXOg1K9rlSlSAbCuNljqgETgUW3WCkpOSVqc_up5LscV198TNey11pl63um6zaL5BUA8csxHTInjDnJvNLLVttEIfAdL1XmEFVfSQAzp2KApwXfktBJRWn-oU_klNotB_9SfxkLCw/s320/P1020508+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lutu was tired, so he sailed his kayak back to the main beach...he used his paddle as a rudder!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">M</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">aking the coconut oil from
scratch was another experience that opened my eyes to how EVERYTHING is used on
the island. It took time for me to break old habits and </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">wrap my
head around</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> the fact that nothing is
thrown away here. </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Sarah and I were always a bit nervous cooking
with Bale because we thought she might see us wasting something! </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">For example, when you cut the skin off of a pineapple, it
is then boiled in water with sugar and strained to make juice. Even then, the
remaining pineapple skin will be</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> saved and</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> fed to
the livestock. I thought that living on a boat made me less wasteful and more </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">savvy</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> about conserving food, but watching and listening to the
people in Fulaga has made me realize how much I still have to learn</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">.</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The village</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">rs</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> here are known for their weaving and wood carving</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> skills</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">. We had </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">heard</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> that Mini (Lutu's brother)
was an amazing carver, so we went to visit him. His work was </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">truly</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> stunning, and after much thought, we decided we wanted
him to make us a bowl for one of the tables on Et Voila. The boat has become
like our home, and I enjoy having </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">souvenirs</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> on the
boat that remind me of special places we have visited over the years... and
Theo and I were</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> definitely enamored</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> with Fulaga. On the day that we had the picnic on the
Sand Spitz, I heard a chain saw. The noise sounded so</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> out of
place </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">to me because the island is always quiet and
peaceful. I looked at Lutu and, with a
shrug of my shoulders, asked him what was happening. He said, "Mini is
cutting down a tree for your carving". Sure enough, a few minutes later we
saw Mini sitting on the ground, measuring a gorgeous block of wood that would
eventually become our bowl. The name of the wood in Fijian is Nowa Nowa and it
had very dramatic changes in color from light to darker brown. </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">From
that moment on, </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">we would visit Mini </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">daily
at his workshop </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">to </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">see </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">the progress of his carving. It was </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">amazing</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> to be able to see his work evolve</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> from a
block of wood</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> from a tree that he </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">had </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">cut down himself, into the </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">beautiful </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">bowl that is now a part of our floating home. We love and
treasure it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtFB2h6Q3gIX6tjUqPwxfvIy0be3b7Vq8kbZCDxnKpVFt-3GXLfJIjKsu9qJrQ1ESsIUd-OMtNh4eaaH6-ZTgYcnxuDmVOVBMECmSVkjrCqK_v92sgl8NeZieEgb5WfjW8AlqyxtegyVqa/s1600/P1010999+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtFB2h6Q3gIX6tjUqPwxfvIy0be3b7Vq8kbZCDxnKpVFt-3GXLfJIjKsu9qJrQ1ESsIUd-OMtNh4eaaH6-ZTgYcnxuDmVOVBMECmSVkjrCqK_v92sgl8NeZieEgb5WfjW8AlqyxtegyVqa/s320/P1010999+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On Mondays, the women of the village get together and weave...on this day we made mats.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp69pwkfZz_PN3CNYH85B020U-gBEQuuLTqi3kKEfEDdDofpMkNJMVObk2zOqpIreT6z_ZEIfZIP1Db9l_o6USz-Tebq5Jdi4FJM3whSA2tIpWa_IMnUHamxG2XVd9-WMjfDyyGhHDd329/s1600/P1020161+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp69pwkfZz_PN3CNYH85B020U-gBEQuuLTqi3kKEfEDdDofpMkNJMVObk2zOqpIreT6z_ZEIfZIP1Db9l_o6USz-Tebq5Jdi4FJM3whSA2tIpWa_IMnUHamxG2XVd9-WMjfDyyGhHDd329/s320/P1020161+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mini and his chain saw right after he cut the wood for our bowl</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqjo7nmO1lG6CA0OBEl6oj5CxDT4-BCKZeQzYiZH95EC6zDD8Yh1j2dYGVDzNG3DgxB_OJ8yCpBA3tPaMVIMfueQOEHm6jzXL6GKQd-N2jgIK5P-fZA6qHEhKIoopbgSJxQN2vHh-mz6jM/s1600/P1020193+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqjo7nmO1lG6CA0OBEl6oj5CxDT4-BCKZeQzYiZH95EC6zDD8Yh1j2dYGVDzNG3DgxB_OJ8yCpBA3tPaMVIMfueQOEHm6jzXL6GKQd-N2jgIK5P-fZA6qHEhKIoopbgSJxQN2vHh-mz6jM/s320/P1020193+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He began carving it right away as we watched</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis6NE27udFs3fmKrb1Ed54HOQamRq0UPuAJS4VmhtnVIWk9dlibPESMXeGws-kt7C2igi9Om1ue_RnoRnFF3l2_PYOY_puJsDwF9Hm_v7HFkQ9CGjj8PN_quQV3VHbat9WKAU1Em2PO9ke/s1600/P1020293+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis6NE27udFs3fmKrb1Ed54HOQamRq0UPuAJS4VmhtnVIWk9dlibPESMXeGws-kt7C2igi9Om1ue_RnoRnFF3l2_PYOY_puJsDwF9Hm_v7HFkQ9CGjj8PN_quQV3VHbat9WKAU1Em2PO9ke/s320/P1020293+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We walked by Mini's workshop daily so we could see the bowl in its various stages. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGbNR-A6kfEsun6HZGvpg9Co1N_ZE4_C6MBFBGujQGCv1Wm8S3guVwubac6qoF0iy7szc6b6MxpqeXSRiPTGYZ9OiF1Pi8JOiUFnAi7L4YcVcJreBWNNFnvk-Co4_9tLhnP08Jb69unYmT/s1600/P1020318+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGbNR-A6kfEsun6HZGvpg9Co1N_ZE4_C6MBFBGujQGCv1Wm8S3guVwubac6qoF0iy7szc6b6MxpqeXSRiPTGYZ9OiF1Pi8JOiUFnAi7L4YcVcJreBWNNFnvk-Co4_9tLhnP08Jb69unYmT/s320/P1020318+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mini adding the final details</td></tr>
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<div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">One evening we invited Lutu,
Bale, Mark, Sarah and kids to Et Voila for dinner. Bale and
Lutu became enthralled with the Google images on Theo's computer. They were
wide eyed as he showed them </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">satellite pictures </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">of their village.</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> A</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">s Theo pointed out where her
home and kitchen were on the screen</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">, Bale kept exclaiming “You are a spy!”</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> He explained that he was not spying on them and what
they were seeing was not a live picture. They looked suspicious as he explained
that it was an older picture... probably
taken years ago! </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">We decided to move away from the computer for a
while and begin cooking dinner. </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Happily for us, Lutu likes
to hunt for crabs in the </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">mangroves</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">...BIG
crabs. That night we made an impressive curry with some of his catch. A few
days earlier, Bale had taught us how to make fresh roti (similar to a flour
tortilla), so we made some of those as well...yum! Thank goodness for Lutu's crabbing skills.
Theo and Mark would often go spear fishing in the pass, but honestly, they are
just not good at it. The joke was that the only way they would ever come back
with a fish is if it was suicidal and threw itself onto the spear! </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">E</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">ventually, Theo did learn how to find clams and scallops
in the lagoon</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> and </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">that alone would have been
enough for me!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6YykuM5_s9-lmtiCqJAu4YQ2EgNq0qjzrjHd_UNdzC_mY_AdkWXdQFknxIpJq23N9DspFz3bkmTApJ-9NhlXwieF_0U2MLVOb5Rm4gdhCu_jNvkjnyCSYJ2oBCl8W99yCVzcp3FopOp-S/s1600/P1010949+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6YykuM5_s9-lmtiCqJAu4YQ2EgNq0qjzrjHd_UNdzC_mY_AdkWXdQFknxIpJq23N9DspFz3bkmTApJ-9NhlXwieF_0U2MLVOb5Rm4gdhCu_jNvkjnyCSYJ2oBCl8W99yCVzcp3FopOp-S/s320/P1010949+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Learning how to make roti at Bale's home...the only ingredients needed are flour, oil and hot water</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0MgtKz1WXAZIR6XfGzsMiy8EAWb19GXhWjMgMKVw5TX6oXzGOSX4KQe_05MgiEdKCST9a4fsQFz9dE0F8qzoRWrw9G9gPlBDgJsV8wqOLDOpp-t3zx_4J-R76PcWk5JvNzW9pEA9rlZpO/s1600/P1010971+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0MgtKz1WXAZIR6XfGzsMiy8EAWb19GXhWjMgMKVw5TX6oXzGOSX4KQe_05MgiEdKCST9a4fsQFz9dE0F8qzoRWrw9G9gPlBDgJsV8wqOLDOpp-t3zx_4J-R76PcWk5JvNzW9pEA9rlZpO/s320/P1010971+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After the dough is kneaded, it is rolled into thin, round shapes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy_k17FRF1NQbEh6aCvVMjrYq8faUVK8Hlkb1WUt-L7W7rh21YqLVI9ATI8SHtWThTqF3EBp2NrjQ7SB6lod24AdM4ZPQXx1wMtkxSUNcdvpiVfIz9c3fAPZR2b-fggVlj0cGzEM4Q6K_r/s1600/P1010957+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy_k17FRF1NQbEh6aCvVMjrYq8faUVK8Hlkb1WUt-L7W7rh21YqLVI9ATI8SHtWThTqF3EBp2NrjQ7SB6lod24AdM4ZPQXx1wMtkxSUNcdvpiVfIz9c3fAPZR2b-fggVlj0cGzEM4Q6K_r/s320/P1010957+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bale used a flat, dry cast iron pan to cook the roti</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaZajHDOFPvqRGe15Mxs1oCOKXZ9YYmL48KQy2HQoBsGA9cAaiqgpJuiGPi_9J6MtfLD1eEwHXs7XKknA9NkVacYxwnarBGLg1dQRDsR7i0fEjcOu44CTFBbnqZ9dpALs1iIEZnWQytQjf/s1600/P1010968+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaZajHDOFPvqRGe15Mxs1oCOKXZ9YYmL48KQy2HQoBsGA9cAaiqgpJuiGPi_9J6MtfLD1eEwHXs7XKknA9NkVacYxwnarBGLg1dQRDsR7i0fEjcOu44CTFBbnqZ9dpALs1iIEZnWQytQjf/s320/P1010968+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Et Voila!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxjl1fReelreS5E4tG-loiYumtISvQBD5i2kbaQybmpb3BKymyi9m6VRoB0aydHqtAPUY6UgdqHeg1yNvj2BbSRa9bZVePMJeNkvF_32qf7HqUengc2ENKKtMWX48m-1menEdR0Wq_ckz-/s1600/P1010810+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxjl1fReelreS5E4tG-loiYumtISvQBD5i2kbaQybmpb3BKymyi9m6VRoB0aydHqtAPUY6UgdqHeg1yNvj2BbSRa9bZVePMJeNkvF_32qf7HqUengc2ENKKtMWX48m-1menEdR0Wq_ckz-/s320/P1010810+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo likes to gather clams and scallops because they can't swim away from him!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwFjC4hbQ_9Xcbhyphenhyphen0CKeludRGb90Kvnd3XCKihbIMi7bxgpkZrWGfB8r7RSs8wC5b_-4-ChjRuZUgvcLw-eyZku2sy-t-gxjaHQmJEkUPs2g9bC9lSGZM7076K1uBL8DPF19kNU306QrSU/s1600/P1020523+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwFjC4hbQ_9Xcbhyphenhyphen0CKeludRGb90Kvnd3XCKihbIMi7bxgpkZrWGfB8r7RSs8wC5b_-4-ChjRuZUgvcLw-eyZku2sy-t-gxjaHQmJEkUPs2g9bC9lSGZM7076K1uBL8DPF19kNU306QrSU/s320/P1020523+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">When we invited Lutu for dinner on our boat, he brought this!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">There was so much to explore
in Fulaga and our time there went by very quickly. When we first arrived</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">we were not certain how long we would </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">stay,
but we were hoping it would be at least four weeks. We started reconsidering
this on a day that the wind was gusting powerfully. The weather in the Lau
Group is a bit crazy, and we knew </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">that</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> it</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">was more than likely not going to cooperate with
our desire to remain on the island.</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">W</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">e</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> began</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> thinking of our passage to
New Zealan</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">d because we were supposed to be there by early November. We had
arranged an appointment with a boatyard to haul Et Voila out of the water while
we flew home for the holidays. We would have to leave Fulaga sooner than
expected. </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">It would have been ideal to
leave Fulaga and go directly to New Zealand, but that </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">was</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> not possible. We need</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">ed</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> to check out of Fiji before
w</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">e
sailed away</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> and that c</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">ould
not </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">be done from the Lau Group. The closest major
port for us </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">was </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Suva, the capital city.
First we needed good weather to leave Fulaga and sail to Suva, and then we
would</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">have to</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> re-provision the boat, wait
for another good weather window, officially check out of Fiji and THEN begin
our eight day passage to New Zealand. A lengthy process...I am tired just
thinking about it!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Fulaga is one of the
loveliest places I have seen </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">while cruising and </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">the people are equally as beautiful. Our goodbyes </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">to them
</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">were filled with promises of </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">visiting
again soon</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">.</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> The
icing on the cake was that we also had to part ways with our friends on Field
Trip! We have had fun times together and shared a lot of adventures as well. We
were going to miss them terribly, so we did the only thing that we could handle
emotionally...we smiled, hugged and pretended that we would find them at
whatever port they were off to next. Leaving any other way would have been too
difficult and very teary.</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">nstead of "goodbye" we sai</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">d</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> "see you soon". </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Y</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">ou never know</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">, </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">maybe </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">next
season will bring us all back to Fulaga so we can create more unforgettable
memories together...I would love that.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd32vnD77qXzp7Z-I_Y177NQIeCITwsjXx-f18mrA1gSe03LI9je5D8TVDOT2iiNg8LiBzIzR2Yq2Shyphenhyphenthgh8U58oHs3gvNu_3emb_hB-D7j3LCCwp2rzfkagBfFN2uewuY27zZ-YxQZ0A/s1600/DSC_0028+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd32vnD77qXzp7Z-I_Y177NQIeCITwsjXx-f18mrA1gSe03LI9je5D8TVDOT2iiNg8LiBzIzR2Yq2Shyphenhyphenthgh8U58oHs3gvNu_3emb_hB-D7j3LCCwp2rzfkagBfFN2uewuY27zZ-YxQZ0A/s320/DSC_0028+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">When we first walked on this beach we were shocked to find a gorgeous nautilus shell on the sand! After that, we would walk it as much as possible from the village to the anchorage in hopes of stumbling upon another one....unfortunately, there were no more to be found.</td></tr>
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</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx3DhuP1uMOxMrpF2Auc-j9aI6aOsmV9PhLXMe4n1JafKOBR3jp91UtaYxLDJQMDXOZKe1uHT1cxbxbwr84Q8sCiWcwtCx5j2ptSM_R1Ugnrl0w-Ua4mtb9EfmUZSDfCsLgwILtV_hAJwt/s1600/P1020322+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx3DhuP1uMOxMrpF2Auc-j9aI6aOsmV9PhLXMe4n1JafKOBR3jp91UtaYxLDJQMDXOZKe1uHT1cxbxbwr84Q8sCiWcwtCx5j2ptSM_R1Ugnrl0w-Ua4mtb9EfmUZSDfCsLgwILtV_hAJwt/s320/P1020322+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mere took us hiking to visit some caves, but she failed to mention what we would find once we got there...yikes!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK90b8xHSQBeJmXBduqbBd7kRpnSb3AyXfDI665x0fFGnniQ1cnX3zx11-yK3tbpSS8aBhyphenhyphencSwO9Rw0rmB4s-aLDeMxInLEnRH5FykJLzLTHE34vkU79XDsSE6t4-be3IGSX0-vbLB2fX6/s1600/P1020341+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK90b8xHSQBeJmXBduqbBd7kRpnSb3AyXfDI665x0fFGnniQ1cnX3zx11-yK3tbpSS8aBhyphenhyphencSwO9Rw0rmB4s-aLDeMxInLEnRH5FykJLzLTHE34vkU79XDsSE6t4-be3IGSX0-vbLB2fX6/s320/P1020341+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No one would give us a straight or consistent answer when we asked about the human remains in these caves. I have come up with my theory, but I will let you invent your own....</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">LESSON:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Bigger is not always better. Oh, grow up...I am talking about our
dinghy! It weighs close to 400 pounds with the console and engine. It is a lot
of fun, but we have had challenges going to shore because when the tide goes
out we can get stuck...really stuck. So, our lesson was to be very cautious of
the changes in tide. If we miscalculated when the tide was going out, our
dinghy was impossible to budge because of its weight. In the meantime, we would
be stranded on the beach counting box crabs and swatting away crazy mosquitoes
until the next tide came in!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">QUOTES:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">“Experience is a hard teacher. She gives the test first and the
lessons afterwards” - Anonymous<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">“Don’t worry, be happy” - Bobby McFerrin<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">FIJIAN WORDS:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Waqa - Ship<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Ivakananumi - Souvenir<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-font-kerning: 1.0pt;">Vakamoce
- Say goodbye </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03471059532461159422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3358276371486559811.post-87464338772080468982015-09-13T23:51:00.001-07:002015-10-17T20:30:23.573-07:00Mamanuca Islands and Southern Yasawa Group, Fiji<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
<b>AUGUST 5 -
SEPTEMBER 14, 2015<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b>MAMANUCA ISLANDS
AND SOUTHERN YASAWA GROUP, FIJI</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 115%;">We have been
enjoying Fiji for a month now, and the most exciting part of our time here so
far has been that we were able to spend it with two very special people in our
lives. Our son, Jonathan, flew into Nadi with us on August 5th and stayed for a
few weeks. Just after he returned home, we were joined by our very dear friend,
Christina, who also sailed with us for a few weeks. There is nothing like being
able to share this time in our lives with them...it has been very memorable for
all of us...surreal, beautiful, relaxing, sometimes challenging and extremely
fun!</span></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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So much has
happened in the past month, and I honestly feel somewhat overwhelmed (and
rusty) as I try to organize my thoughts and begin to type this post! I have
decided to separate it into segments of experiences so I can focus on one thing
at a time. Sooo...here it goes!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>OVERCOMING
ADVERSITY, A BIT OF DRAMA AND A LOT OF LUCK</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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I have never really
believed in luck, but I am rapidly warming to the idea that it truly does
exist. On our first day of sailing we had a setback. The outcome is nothing
more than being lucky...REALLY LUCKY. As you read this, do not worry...everyone
is fine! Here is what happened...<o:p></o:p></div>
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We had left Vuda
Marina and were sailing towards Mana Island. Jonathan was relaxing and I was
standing in the galley. Ironically, I was looking out of the hatch facing the
bow of the boat when I saw Theo fall past it. I did not know where he had fallen
from, but was imagining the worst. Sure enough, he had climbed up on the mast
(without telling anyone), lost his grip and fell. When I reached him he was stunned, but on his
feet. I believe in luck now, because this was nearly a tragic event. My husband
could have been seriously injured, but instead he just broke his left pinky
finger! Lucky, lucky, lucky...<o:p></o:p></div>
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The remainder of
Jonathan's time with us was very relaxing and we did not have any more bad
surprises. We visited beautiful anchorages, had fun snorkeling and ate great
meals. That all changed when Christina was supposed to arrive. What we
experienced next was a true test of character for us. As you read this, again,
do not worry...everyone is fine! Here is what happened...<o:p></o:p></div>
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Let me preface by
explaining that Christina had been looking forward to meeting us in Fiji for a
year and had used every day of her vacation time from work to make this trip
happen. That being said...she called me from the airport to tell me that her
flight from Monterey to Los Angeles had been cancelled. She could not get to
LAX in time to catch the Fiji Airways flight that would ultimately bring her to
us. This was frustrating news. She spent the next four hours trying to fix the
situation. She almost lost her Fiji ticket as a no show, but in the end it got
resolved. She flew out the next day, arriving at Nadi airport one day later
than originally planned. Phew! No harm done...a bumpy start, but we were still
good!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Did I mention that
Christina suffers terribly from motion sickness? A few years ago when we still
had Et Voila in San Pedro at the Cabrillo Way Marina in California, she came to
visit and we spent the night on the boat. She could barely go below deck to use
the head, slept outside, and in the morning she was sitting out on the dock
(yes, we were docked in the marina the entire time)! Needless to say, Theo and
I were very concerned when she told us her intention of sailing with us in Fiji. She
simply waved away our concerns stating that she would find a way to get over it
and all would be just fine.<o:p></o:p></div>
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When Christina
finally arrived at the Port Denarau Marina where we had our boat anchored in
Fiji, she had already taken a Bonine capsule, was wearing a Scopolamine Patch,
AND had on two wristbands to control motion sickness. To top it all off, she
enjoyed two fancy Fijian cocktails complete with umbrellas and fruit during
lunch to celebrate her arrival. After lunch, we went into town to buy
provisions for the next few weeks on the boat. By the time we got to the fresh
vegetable market, Christina could barely put one foot in front of the other! She needed to
lie down right away! In conclusion to the motion sickness situation, I can tell
you that during her two week sailing adventure on Et Voila, she never got sea
sick and slept like a bear during winter hibernation. Those Scopolamine Patches
do their job.<o:p></o:p></div>
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It was Christina's
first morning waking up in Port Denarau (she slept outside in the cockpit) and
we were going to leave right after coffee for our first anchorage in the
Mamanuca Islands. I was still in bed and could hear her chatting happily with
Theo in the galley as she used the microwave to heat up her oatmeal. Suddenly,
I heard a loud, fast clicking noise coming from underneath our mattress. I did
not understand what was happening, but my instinct told me that it was not
good. The microwave suddenly stopped and so did the clicking noise. It was VERY
quiet...too quiet actually. Next, I heard Theo at the control panel trying to
get our power back on. No luck that time! In a matter of minutes, he was
telling Christina and I that our main battery charger/inverter (which was
located under our bed) was no longer working. I should also add that Theo had
problems with the engine alternators. They were not charging our house
batteries. In addition, our solar panels cannot keep up, especially on cloudy
days. Without being able to charge the house batteries, we could not leave. He
would have to order the replacement part and it would take weeks before it
arrived in Port Denarau. He said "We are dead in the water...we cannot go
anywhere." Theo would not say something like that unless he was absolutely
sure...a very disturbing conclusion.<o:p></o:p></div>
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My stomach was
twisted in knots and I could not wrap my head around the idea that we could not
take Christina to all of the gorgeous places we had visited with Jonathan. Yes, we
were in Fiji, and in the end we could have gone to a resort somewhere and
enjoyed our time together all the same, but being on the boat and having the
experience of being at anchor in Fiji's amazing water is a feeling that is
unattainable anywhere else. Living on our boat in Fiji is what it is all
about...that is why we are here after all! <o:p></o:p></div>
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I refused to panic.
Maybe I was in denial the entire time? Even when Christina and I were sitting
at Lulu's Cafe scouring the internet for a resort we could stay at for two
weeks with last minute notice? I kept telling her that Theo could fix anything
and that he would figure out a solution to our problem. There HAD to be a way.
The situation was sickening and unacceptable. We intentionally stayed on shore
most of the day so Theo could have space and quiet time to think. He didn't
need us there asking questions and disrupting his focus. In my opinion, as long
as he continued brainstorming there was hope. Sure enough, he eventually found
a way...<o:p></o:p></div>
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My husband is
amazing. Whenever I tell him how amazing and smart he is, he just looks down at
his feet and shakes his head. He is so humble, but I want to tell everyone that
he can fix anything and is a genius!!! As I mentioned, the boat also had a
problem with the alternators, which Theo had postponed fixing until November in
New Zealand. We were using the generator with inverter/charger and solar panels
to charge our batteries. Now, two of our charging sources were lost. Since he
did not have the parts to fix the inverter/charger, Theo concentrated on
figuring out the alternator problem and he found a solution. Of course, it was
all much more complicated than how I am explaining it, but in the end, we could
charge our batteries and sail away. That close call made us even more
appreciative of where we were... I think we cherished Fiji, Et Voila and our
moments together even more because of it.<o:p></o:p></div>
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LESSONS:<o:p></o:p></div>
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- Use of the
Scopolamine Patch may result in a withdrawal syndrome after it's removal. These
include dizziness, nausea and headache. In other words...you will feel like crap for a while.<o:p></o:p></div>
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-Do not postpone
fixing things because in boating Murphy's Law applies<o:p></o:p></div>
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-Do not
despair...Theo will fix it!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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QUOTES:<o:p></o:p></div>
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"Challenges
are what make life interesting and overcoming them is what makes life
meaningful." - Joshua J. Marine<o:p></o:p></div>
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"Lead me,
follow me, or get out of my way." - General George Patton<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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FIJIAN WORD:<o:p></o:p></div>
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Kalougata - Lucky<o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh9kXG7_WBTAGhIcHHC7y6vJrtM7G1sEP5uQDjtMeWcaEuvjqliKgetRUWAEcC_tiOumBeV00fr__YkoPKjaJ08uvuHa60ZA69zBEPdzmXZwe3Eh3PR1ZyiVgP0xxN6f2btCGXib1UpMDz/s1600/20150813_190848+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh9kXG7_WBTAGhIcHHC7y6vJrtM7G1sEP5uQDjtMeWcaEuvjqliKgetRUWAEcC_tiOumBeV00fr__YkoPKjaJ08uvuHa60ZA69zBEPdzmXZwe3Eh3PR1ZyiVgP0xxN6f2btCGXib1UpMDz/s320/20150813_190848+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I said he was smart...not graceful</td></tr>
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</o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioKcONfz7ovCQC2zmN1kA1G7EAebPAohDDDzkbVYBsW-7dLu8LtHCEcA9UsPxIuvD9rRPROXEfQ953YS2quANsbIcvp0DLihiZj09c6IsAwGExOBT25C_4SpsEdUOGaypT-jg19CkTQMF0/s1600/P1010490+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioKcONfz7ovCQC2zmN1kA1G7EAebPAohDDDzkbVYBsW-7dLu8LtHCEcA9UsPxIuvD9rRPROXEfQ953YS2quANsbIcvp0DLihiZj09c6IsAwGExOBT25C_4SpsEdUOGaypT-jg19CkTQMF0/s320/P1010490+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We feasted on Indian cuisine in Nadi with our taxi driver and friend Vino</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU1CsxM6ioah3036wQj0teLzJP3y4dDydN-gS7aC7-BIqp6rShWDzXdvA6yMVMzA12TDEHeD-ktN-EVxSIBPXAB40iM8-qCzFcC6Cw-H0H3sd_0KDVK8kz80LTP5VTV0mNqLip8fodAReR/s1600/P1010501+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU1CsxM6ioah3036wQj0teLzJP3y4dDydN-gS7aC7-BIqp6rShWDzXdvA6yMVMzA12TDEHeD-ktN-EVxSIBPXAB40iM8-qCzFcC6Cw-H0H3sd_0KDVK8kz80LTP5VTV0mNqLip8fodAReR/s320/P1010501+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Hindu Temple in Nadi</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiub7IGXaSTGr1UR4YkBmLM4SLLNl4CYULoO-DY9P7RJK3RsPalIvXdFJ6XrUEEfv-ELUpONP28aGPLI1SX0pWfSpKcAjG7QQbOx0UAWBmpOSsBFOsPTCqWMyP8rzdu03tBFPCbbhhPG7X_/s1600/P1010503+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiub7IGXaSTGr1UR4YkBmLM4SLLNl4CYULoO-DY9P7RJK3RsPalIvXdFJ6XrUEEfv-ELUpONP28aGPLI1SX0pWfSpKcAjG7QQbOx0UAWBmpOSsBFOsPTCqWMyP8rzdu03tBFPCbbhhPG7X_/s320/P1010503+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It is so wonderful to see old friends...dinner with Phil and Sara from S/V Lochmarin in Port Denarau</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidB_fPewXQixK1FdGQbludnHAUTjzzyPCfhmnS1UKnA6BeonvnsGnjCfZfLg-_syXnLg7vlslJcvf_maxlwoQF7ySOFnUh4WFWId5181cCqsSNJ7hq9nClyQrT6uLOxhG_saVPvlO4QWLl/s1600/20150807_132044+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidB_fPewXQixK1FdGQbludnHAUTjzzyPCfhmnS1UKnA6BeonvnsGnjCfZfLg-_syXnLg7vlslJcvf_maxlwoQF7ySOFnUh4WFWId5181cCqsSNJ7hq9nClyQrT6uLOxhG_saVPvlO4QWLl/s320/20150807_132044+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting ready for spear fishing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our friends from S/V Exodus...Deanne and Tim on board Et Voila</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jonathan exploring an uninhabited island</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaTr8YdqmzJleKBofLpiGKV6_NIGWVep3sz2IQqpgdk3jc2f1HgxvsALqWAyImgsNHSqRBxajKb0wuw0a4J3T_NJ4yz4fsNPNabWoGksb8dME0CnXC09n3SPdVsdCkv0hx_nE_RicDSNj6/s1600/P1010299+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaTr8YdqmzJleKBofLpiGKV6_NIGWVep3sz2IQqpgdk3jc2f1HgxvsALqWAyImgsNHSqRBxajKb0wuw0a4J3T_NJ4yz4fsNPNabWoGksb8dME0CnXC09n3SPdVsdCkv0hx_nE_RicDSNj6/s320/P1010299+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo is always on the hunt for green drinking coconuts</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh87ds7PhgAGjYq7ryWegIJjpO-vTr9xjoGDbjZ4_Yz-_n6RRBDlbTNjnlBcB2Ia46r5MsUrNlYjUCFIJ0mOBylxXeBBYfRQsGGlaKMs_ZQUPBAtvd36NZXOqearYCMcz5-OgmZm6vG4KCt/s1600/P1010321+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh87ds7PhgAGjYq7ryWegIJjpO-vTr9xjoGDbjZ4_Yz-_n6RRBDlbTNjnlBcB2Ia46r5MsUrNlYjUCFIJ0mOBylxXeBBYfRQsGGlaKMs_ZQUPBAtvd36NZXOqearYCMcz5-OgmZm6vG4KCt/s320/P1010321+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What did that coconut ever do to him?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQkJnN40hXK0WNZmY_OdMrLoSvq-Pz9Cdu2cfuhgje7TswgxMqz3IttrB1gLqNWgUqgfDpIXg5dBxvO1xtXbw2cxCLwqE3TE1K5PKmiwA02hlkZ7-VAqPQnkN2JyuNQSALL9mOPh_oCCUL/s1600/P1010560+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQkJnN40hXK0WNZmY_OdMrLoSvq-Pz9Cdu2cfuhgje7TswgxMqz3IttrB1gLqNWgUqgfDpIXg5dBxvO1xtXbw2cxCLwqE3TE1K5PKmiwA02hlkZ7-VAqPQnkN2JyuNQSALL9mOPh_oCCUL/s320/P1010560+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Captain Theo at the helm</td></tr>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
<b>WAHOO, TUNA AND
CRABS...OH MY!!!</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
Theo had replaced our stolen fishing poles and
reels with another pair from home and the prospect of catching our own food was
exciting. While sailing between islands we usually had two lines in the water.
On the way to Waya Island, Jonathan reeled in a gorgeous Barraccuda. Once
anchored outside the local village, we decided to give them the fish, along
with some kava, candy and clothes for the children. They seemed to like
everything we gave them, but Jonathan's fish was their favorite. Our son also managed to reel in a stunning
Wahoo. Fresh Wahoo steaks are a special treat and my personal favorite. The
most entertaining part of catching a fish with Theo and Jonathan is their
bickering back and forth trying to guess what kind of fish was on the line as it
was being reeled in. Jonathan was always right! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
We are not skilled
fishermen by any means and this next story will confirm that. It was a calm,
sunny day and we were sailing to a beautiful anchorage at Nanuya Island.
Christina and I were relaxing on the bow of the boat and Theo was up on the
flying bridge listening to his favorite music playlist...very loudly. We were
nearing the pass to Nanuya, so Theo went to pull in the fishing lines as he
customarily does before reaching an anchorage. Suddenly he said "Oh, we
have a fish!" Apparently, we had the music volume up so loud on the flying
bridge, that none of us heard any noise when we hooked it. The reel was
completely spooled of all the line and we had been dragging the poor fish for
who knows how long. It is surprising that a shark didn't come along and take it
from us. When it was finally on board,
we were incredulous to see a 20 pound Yellowfin Tuna... there is that
luck again!!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
On another day,
while riding the dinghy back to Et Voila with Christina, Theo noticed a young Fijian man with bundles of something on his kayak. We had noticed him the day
before digging waist-deep in the mud.
When we stopped him and asked what he had, he gave us a big smile and held up a
crab with it's large claws wrapped in string. What he was showing us was a
local delicacy...Fijian Mud Crabs! Their name may not make them sound
delicious, but they are. He was very happy to sell us five of his fresh catch,
and we were happy to enjoy them for dinner!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
RECIPE - MUD
CRAB ALIO E OLIO PASTA<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
-Fusilli Pasta<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
-Mud Crabs,
scrubbed, washed and shelled<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
-Fresh mushrooms or
eggplant<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
-Chopped onion<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
-Minced garlic<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
-Red pepper to
taste<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
-Olive Oil and a
pat of butter<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
Saute the garlic,
onion and mushrooms in olive oil. Once softened, add the remainder of the
ingredients to the pan and cook through. Mix with the hot pasta...devour
immediately!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
LESSONS:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
- Fijians use every
part of a fish. The head is especially of great importance and they will always
ask you for it. Even the spine, bones and skin (parts that we normally throw
away) are used to make soup and will feed a family.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
- Turn down the
music volume.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
QUOTE:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
"Without
music, life is a journey through a desert." - Pat Conroy<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
FIJIAN WORDS:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
Wanisiwa - Fishing
line<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
Maleka - Delicious<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
<o:p> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWstwEYRdXnuYv904_0jquQyh_-IbHk9kH-GNXHsDZX0rByn2F_L3FAQHA5LhF2y5unBYb0VYh_4eBnUaXOd9kXs0Ucyucmf9fbJ0AkbqsEoNTK-fC57Ld9Gr8QciJWzz7sEQQdFFXV8Od/s1600/P1010376+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWstwEYRdXnuYv904_0jquQyh_-IbHk9kH-GNXHsDZX0rByn2F_L3FAQHA5LhF2y5unBYb0VYh_4eBnUaXOd9kXs0Ucyucmf9fbJ0AkbqsEoNTK-fC57Ld9Gr8QciJWzz7sEQQdFFXV8Od/s320/P1010376+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our first catch...Barracuda</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCtQmsS9s1Hv5ZGI1FQVqLGoyKxIA1qmvU1Plv_6Wh9T2Me-xckr-l9Uq-E4U1btva2w42Zw68PQWMJVNKcWjL0zwKT5npak0MZbpSNAYTXJ4IM5OmtRGjYjfs-vTm0X9-0CsdGD_wg-YG/s1600/P1010545+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCtQmsS9s1Hv5ZGI1FQVqLGoyKxIA1qmvU1Plv_6Wh9T2Me-xckr-l9Uq-E4U1btva2w42Zw68PQWMJVNKcWjL0zwKT5npak0MZbpSNAYTXJ4IM5OmtRGjYjfs-vTm0X9-0CsdGD_wg-YG/s320/P1010545+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bringing in the Tuna</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9JFhSA8Z2vgDNKVBn7hmqFa-8CrTvyXPOhvcCKyVUqCg0hymmLzQhNM_mP0vqUXvZSSqeyXw6wUCv0fxdTJ7EUZQHs0IBiYRnhZS7p2xAIXlg94by_IZD_v00GmSbVARdxfekeSwOAwF9/s1600/P1010561+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9JFhSA8Z2vgDNKVBn7hmqFa-8CrTvyXPOhvcCKyVUqCg0hymmLzQhNM_mP0vqUXvZSSqeyXw6wUCv0fxdTJ7EUZQHs0IBiYRnhZS7p2xAIXlg94by_IZD_v00GmSbVARdxfekeSwOAwF9/s320/P1010561+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Et Voila!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIJRNcWK7hIvPZYENkup5Fo8FtxBEmcnz9ciQPe-PlkH1bA7aez0XhUwckmnKzXV0JYpjQbkkUP2woash8LjsPO7e11fFzXPLSLPnXO3MKUCShNT1iVADzOSCDUKk3JXTlNF2AY5DNOCfX/s1600/P1010579+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIJRNcWK7hIvPZYENkup5Fo8FtxBEmcnz9ciQPe-PlkH1bA7aez0XhUwckmnKzXV0JYpjQbkkUP2woash8LjsPO7e11fFzXPLSLPnXO3MKUCShNT1iVADzOSCDUKk3JXTlNF2AY5DNOCfX/s320/P1010579+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christina was ready to dig into our very special tuna sashimi lunch</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-iapyInXoS3yK7ruwvqVFXMN1b4a-O112I9BblR6tXUHZP8mXbeC4udgAUioWnvFnBtTn9rAG2p56Y-RouHCROg1MJCsGaVr8HAezAuv5fR7snIjJzMD_IVKXqqPtyjrGLf1ILBXR20Lg/s1600/P1010505+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-iapyInXoS3yK7ruwvqVFXMN1b4a-O112I9BblR6tXUHZP8mXbeC4udgAUioWnvFnBtTn9rAG2p56Y-RouHCROg1MJCsGaVr8HAezAuv5fR7snIjJzMD_IVKXqqPtyjrGLf1ILBXR20Lg/s320/P1010505+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mud crabs ready to be shelled for our pasta sauce</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigqOmppsuxVaLe_Xkp1xQc4ep7L6k6aIHPL4ept2Zx02iV_1wakP9yLzXydhUKerkH4b5Ukm3Suu96Y0Y0XcdtJ9xEDuesaNMapc83LV1VhRIne-ZV5veyEVDwXxKod5_L4Vul_fpAuZUG/s1600/IMG_2691+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigqOmppsuxVaLe_Xkp1xQc4ep7L6k6aIHPL4ept2Zx02iV_1wakP9yLzXydhUKerkH4b5Ukm3Suu96Y0Y0XcdtJ9xEDuesaNMapc83LV1VhRIne-ZV5veyEVDwXxKod5_L4Vul_fpAuZUG/s320/IMG_2691+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inspecting a new creation from the galley...I think it was a fish fritter.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
<b>BIG TOM,THE CELL
PHONE AND A PIG NAMED DAVE</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
One of our
anchorages while we were sailing with Jonathan was at Waya Island by the
Nalauwaki Village. When a boat anchors
in front of a village, it is customary
for everyone on board to go to shore and introduce themselves as soon as
possible. We were expecting to use their backyard as a home for a few nights,
so asking permission to stay is the polite thing to do. The three of us jumped
in the dinghy with our offerings of a beautiful barracuda we had just caught, a
bundle of kava, clothes and candy.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
We were trying to
navigate around the coral towards shore when we were approached by a young man
on a paddle board. He gave us three papayas and then extended his hand eagerly
for our fish. He said his name was Tom and his grandfather, also named Tom, was
one of the elders in the village. He told us to follow close behind him so he
could lead us to the beach without hitting anything. We were grateful.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
Once on shore, the
elder Tom (Big Tom) was there to greet us and thanked us for the fish. We
presented him with the bundle of kava, kids' clothes and the candy. The kids
swarmed around him when they saw the sweets, but Big Tom took control of the
situation very quickly. He had them line up single file, and one by one, he
gave them some candy to enjoy. Afterwards, he motioned us to follow him to the
chief's house where we sat on the floor for a brief Sevusevu ceremony. Once the
ceremony was completed and it was understood that we were accepted into the
village, Big Tom gave us a tour. At one point I noticed a large, white pig
running loose between the houses. The
pig's name was Dave, and after Big Tom fed him some candy, he did a few tricks
for us. Whenever someone would scratch his belly he would roll over...clever
pig.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
We sat on the beach
for a little while and spoke with Big Tom. I asked him about the cyclones in
Fiji and if the villagers worried about them. He told me they never worry about
that because Sunday and Tuesday are days of prayer and on those days they ask
God to protect them from any extreme weather. He explained with rock solid
faith that their prayers would always be answered...so, no worries and no
cyclones. Amazing... Before we returned to Et Voila for dinner, Theo asked Big
Tom if he needed anything from the main island. We told him that we would be
returning to visit him in a couple of weeks and would be happy to bring some
things back. He was thoughtful for a few seconds, and then told us he would
give us a list before we sailed away.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
When Jonathan, Theo
and I returned to the village to say goodbye, Tom gave us a piece of paper with
his requests from the main island. Jonathan and Theo read it while I was taking
pictures of the children wearing the clothes we had brought them. I noticed
they kept looking at the list, but didn't say anything. Jonathan folded the
paper and put it in his pocket. I suggested he might want to give it to me so
that we didn't misplace it, but he just pointed at his head and said
"Don't worry mom, I've got it memorized." To make a short story even
shorter, Big Tom asked us to bring him a cell phone (Digicel touch screen) and
a CCC brand backpack. We were stunned and a bit confused to say the least. We
assumed he would ask for things like food, a cooking pot or some items for the
school...but a touch screen cell phone? We did not see that one coming.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
The request for a
cell phone was presumptuous, but it still became a conundrum for us. We
certainly wanted to help Tom and his village, but we also didn't want to be
Santa Claus and have them expect expensive gifts every time a cruiser
approached their village. If we gave him the cell phone, we would be setting
the bar very high for future visitors. We have been in Fiji for a while and we
know that it is frowned upon when cruisers offer luxurious gifts to the
villages. It actually disrupts their way of life and causes problems between
them. So, in the end, we brought Big Tom the backpack and gave a donation to
the kindergarten, but no cell phone. He was extremely grateful and never
mentioned the phone to us again. Live and learn...<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
LESSON:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
- Be careful about
what you offer.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
- Pigs love candy.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
QUOTE:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
"You can't
change the past, but you can ruin the present by worrying about the
future." -
Anonymous<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
FIJIAN WORDS:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
Turaga - Chief<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
Kerekere - To ask a
favor<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
Talevoni -
Telephone<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
Sa dina! - Really!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
<o:p> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit5KxzxyyBV7mhkWdq98CnXCF25sIJf5NC_gE0payK3ulshEAiGFx5Md_3jQobnGXLiQpZCstg0MmGQB-xmGOodIzaFQh64lq5Pse75Pnr6aZOdtND641sd9YB0ewnnB1QT15IkCcum-Om/s1600/GOPR3571+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit5KxzxyyBV7mhkWdq98CnXCF25sIJf5NC_gE0payK3ulshEAiGFx5Md_3jQobnGXLiQpZCstg0MmGQB-xmGOodIzaFQh64lq5Pse75Pnr6aZOdtND641sd9YB0ewnnB1QT15IkCcum-Om/s320/GOPR3571+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo ready to bring a bundle of Kava to the chief on Mana Island</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxNP7sA5l9sg3mVuAGcGT268Mv5WHl-miS0WxVvu09ewjLJv0nMgE_M268Vrujkb0sJ15QOxRDc9W8XWPEDTUgzk8oNBiDGYMJZVkWORr0trAWdD-0G3QEuf6nW4UHU8Rys2Key5lqQcQT/s1600/GOPR3577+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxNP7sA5l9sg3mVuAGcGT268Mv5WHl-miS0WxVvu09ewjLJv0nMgE_M268Vrujkb0sJ15QOxRDc9W8XWPEDTUgzk8oNBiDGYMJZVkWORr0trAWdD-0G3QEuf6nW4UHU8Rys2Key5lqQcQT/s320/GOPR3577+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPHC-ZttRBukIb54aUK3JZRQcPTb5vN8Yc4o6jQQPZgqEDIP1OG9AgxXZR-M4uZG59XLIO7_K80qYWsuMGIFGV_BY7PdzAdjTmUHod0ydAYB3uaZDyImHaXCtYR4D8Y1kweM0ZBqMySd8A/s1600/P1010383+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPHC-ZttRBukIb54aUK3JZRQcPTb5vN8Yc4o6jQQPZgqEDIP1OG9AgxXZR-M4uZG59XLIO7_K80qYWsuMGIFGV_BY7PdzAdjTmUHod0ydAYB3uaZDyImHaXCtYR4D8Y1kweM0ZBqMySd8A/s320/P1010383+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jonathan giving "Little Tom" the Barracuda</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCSltISgEh2zt-YEb6PLAhVFEmt0vSwtHcEZ4RzSbCnNmvNQKJvap4V7TIbopNWmyCLuVrP6VqDpWOrq1qdsR4JmRp_p7fHdD9jD93ZLPagd9XY9XqmkDS_RaAueMQavLunYRczydcOUMs/s1600/P1010392+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCSltISgEh2zt-YEb6PLAhVFEmt0vSwtHcEZ4RzSbCnNmvNQKJvap4V7TIbopNWmyCLuVrP6VqDpWOrq1qdsR4JmRp_p7fHdD9jD93ZLPagd9XY9XqmkDS_RaAueMQavLunYRczydcOUMs/s320/P1010392+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Big Tom" passing out candy to the children</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6vr1Y3S_NCGNectjsEzN_JrFUCemPB1tsfddykrZtjUty_Rxqf1dIzLaTM8I5IXZq65MAZn23bhtzn0OmVZX2YEQWxuUDa7mcqqD7wu5ANJlUR9WsJK_t-u1gKtFMoKbPj5ewW96uPC_-/s1600/P1010403+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6vr1Y3S_NCGNectjsEzN_JrFUCemPB1tsfddykrZtjUty_Rxqf1dIzLaTM8I5IXZq65MAZn23bhtzn0OmVZX2YEQWxuUDa7mcqqD7wu5ANJlUR9WsJK_t-u1gKtFMoKbPj5ewW96uPC_-/s320/P1010403+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dave the pig before eating candy</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUMNmUfjQ-ySZWTDR9yEmOEZVXQV58z3O5_GoRGiqNzTO5R5yN5GXbmkcpHGJJ14VwyO_C8icuTI1xls85feoH7xtZhIOW86LZ9oLngOkZZ2qa8OzZyTXpa7uY5ceqLPKeqTzSUJ4bXA4e/s1600/P1010417+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUMNmUfjQ-ySZWTDR9yEmOEZVXQV58z3O5_GoRGiqNzTO5R5yN5GXbmkcpHGJJ14VwyO_C8icuTI1xls85feoH7xtZhIOW86LZ9oLngOkZZ2qa8OzZyTXpa7uY5ceqLPKeqTzSUJ4bXA4e/s320/P1010417+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dave the pig after eating candy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvtCf6FJQDZa5zCujp0paMZBAK0nEvk9yIlLutokaonGhPICwu38992GjSKKnCNQWwhDYVSn0e-KkfwiyW7KsWqy9TG2hWcbKzb8Da1DHBXdBDjJR9KLv1n_WT-0dmpsmd_3jhxm5AaNd0/s1600/GOPR3985+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvtCf6FJQDZa5zCujp0paMZBAK0nEvk9yIlLutokaonGhPICwu38992GjSKKnCNQWwhDYVSn0e-KkfwiyW7KsWqy9TG2hWcbKzb8Da1DHBXdBDjJR9KLv1n_WT-0dmpsmd_3jhxm5AaNd0/s320/GOPR3985+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Little Tom" guiding us to the Octopus Resort which is on the other side of the island</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCOdghMkZAkNDiRP2tbgbHWJlxtCIez3OhgT0586LuhS-xb4Sxz2vuDfEjvjHa6qfJY2ZuzWvqvFhdbub8e6ZkBnXr3BYRL69390k3nrOlcQZSVNXBEY-2M_F04yoY1PndLItFJv9M_aB-/s1600/P1010466+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCOdghMkZAkNDiRP2tbgbHWJlxtCIez3OhgT0586LuhS-xb4Sxz2vuDfEjvjHa6qfJY2ZuzWvqvFhdbub8e6ZkBnXr3BYRL69390k3nrOlcQZSVNXBEY-2M_F04yoY1PndLItFJv9M_aB-/s320/P1010466+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The children of Nalauwaki Village modeling clothes that were donated to them by the Caring Eagles at the Carden Conservatory School...Vinaka!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioh9-PisqDCyUB-jIgLn7xuhSdRQVu3PuWKjj3kkeIPSCA7W-jypj9PB7aRqnsG-YL2e09ibSDbzw2L0pOq6PUdi88YZd5GdnArleol7z1NQy62_YGDJEs4goG_4-jOC163Vt5tCBStJGz/s1600/20150807_102750+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioh9-PisqDCyUB-jIgLn7xuhSdRQVu3PuWKjj3kkeIPSCA7W-jypj9PB7aRqnsG-YL2e09ibSDbzw2L0pOq6PUdi88YZd5GdnArleol7z1NQy62_YGDJEs4goG_4-jOC163Vt5tCBStJGz/s320/20150807_102750+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One year old baby Bulo and her mother Esta</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo69p_H6jXqLyvTNeHjEFtiuQcdDPjdICcpJMMyf9WFdSU1Res_6nqUZe9Wy1i6fSLROG0UbOsmzbWL0VqVsWkDZ5g9MT8Z8TSU2cMwy751A0Qfgzm1vP_S7YeWxQzHSh1_-cCS7JgLQRE/s1600/20150831_153359+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo69p_H6jXqLyvTNeHjEFtiuQcdDPjdICcpJMMyf9WFdSU1Res_6nqUZe9Wy1i6fSLROG0UbOsmzbWL0VqVsWkDZ5g9MT8Z8TSU2cMwy751A0Qfgzm1vP_S7YeWxQzHSh1_-cCS7JgLQRE/s320/20150831_153359+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A free spirited young man from Nalauwaki Kindergarten</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlnUIxneEZVjJTLVBbUGLd5URvq8mlxd5bLBwbIa0sm86ab8zQ_Vrx_Q25XcvnaWG3v3-PoDK8xnjdgSaC5m1iOuKONfHfCr9NBeZQpUCq23jIgpf8eQT5M9kVFHIJwQa1XMXmihiW0qSJ/s1600/20150831_160615+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlnUIxneEZVjJTLVBbUGLd5URvq8mlxd5bLBwbIa0sm86ab8zQ_Vrx_Q25XcvnaWG3v3-PoDK8xnjdgSaC5m1iOuKONfHfCr9NBeZQpUCq23jIgpf8eQT5M9kVFHIJwQa1XMXmihiW0qSJ/s320/20150831_160615+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After a tour of the school, the village offered us kava and preformed a dance show called a "Meke"</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy7f0oj6P5AXBgKiQ1Ceti2oLSC49dfvwgjI4gToFBuJIlvQMMfCswBh9rp5sEGeE5r6p7cSvqibju_3tMpghQPWder894uGAy6efzljNTWA0-Z24TY6I2VDGQnrxF9LVAS8SS53n2QzlB/s1600/P1010609+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy7f0oj6P5AXBgKiQ1Ceti2oLSC49dfvwgjI4gToFBuJIlvQMMfCswBh9rp5sEGeE5r6p7cSvqibju_3tMpghQPWder894uGAy6efzljNTWA0-Z24TY6I2VDGQnrxF9LVAS8SS53n2QzlB/s320/P1010609+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I was sitting inside the schoolhouse when I saw these children trying to peek inside...I couldn't resist taking a photo of their fabulous hair!!</td></tr>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
<b>SUNSETS, SMILES AND
WEATHER WINDOWS</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
Theo and I love
Fiji. The water here is the most brilliant color of blue that you can imagine
and we always stop what we are doing to watch the sun go down at the end of a
day. Never missing a sunset is a wonderful way to live if you ask me. The
Fijian people add to the beauty and uniqueness of this place. They are tranquil
and happy people who don't appear to have any worries. They are helpful, easy
to smile and have a contagious high pitched laugh. This is why some cruisers
choose to return to Fiji for many sailing seasons year after year. We are not
in a rush to leave this part of the world. It took us a very long time to get
here and there is so much more to see and do.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
As I write this
post, Theo and I are in Port Denarau waiting for one more boat part to arrive
from Australia. We are also waiting for a good weather window to sail to the
Southern Lau Islands. This is a chain of 60 islands and only half are
inhabited. It is a remote area of Fiji that most tourists do not see and it is
special for that reason. Fulaga is a cresent shaped reef-limestone island and
it has a stunning lagoon for anchorage. Our plan is to sail there and stay for
about one month so we can live with the families and experience their culture.
Theo and I are doing our best to be patient, but what we really want to do is
pull up our anchor and begin the voyage East. Oh well, patience is a virtue!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
QUOTE:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
"There are no
shortcuts to any place worth going." - Beverly Sills<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
"Map out your
future, but do it in pencil." - Jon Bon Jovi<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
FIJIAN WORDS:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
Totoka - Beautiful<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10.0pt;">
Yanuyanu - Island<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtTv46mvp_VI33e3zx2EZEmZZM3i6sa14qXfL5eEw4ZcHDq3_zVGldJTkfrok-SHAqpZQG968byjyM-2VVdGFO8RKgDF2rqMWWC5entdMTSIq2RVI5zHaBjsme1h4Y24dHZeBxP3Mm35kg/s1600/20150828_173642+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtTv46mvp_VI33e3zx2EZEmZZM3i6sa14qXfL5eEw4ZcHDq3_zVGldJTkfrok-SHAqpZQG968byjyM-2VVdGFO8RKgDF2rqMWWC5entdMTSIq2RVI5zHaBjsme1h4Y24dHZeBxP3Mm35kg/s320/20150828_173642+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiX7qls5u5ZgcPdRktATvmjfJV6nXTa2ntIlo6KIGVavO05Q3_7J6kLkzRAyv1dz4HDs68fVZ_9kg_UPItkwCzIDKU-ZO55LxPmevPAW1lowKpW3zmV2ZSNlxgL29iIsHMBzNHeOyuBaL7/s1600/20150831_175855+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiX7qls5u5ZgcPdRktATvmjfJV6nXTa2ntIlo6KIGVavO05Q3_7J6kLkzRAyv1dz4HDs68fVZ_9kg_UPItkwCzIDKU-ZO55LxPmevPAW1lowKpW3zmV2ZSNlxgL29iIsHMBzNHeOyuBaL7/s320/20150831_175855+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A sunset by the Coconut Bar at the Octopus Resort</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhClr1RYiDJOSQaXB5XA8WqFo6EvJOx0D_kXQd1zFofANqAYo5XjvXlYP0iC1yBz5IvbZHjrT-JZPAGSJ2D3z7PyGU1U6IVAMrmCYxlpg-fOKQCQd36XnG81yovVn2a4Ka9BZxSU9sFbrZF/s1600/20150901_151131+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhClr1RYiDJOSQaXB5XA8WqFo6EvJOx0D_kXQd1zFofANqAYo5XjvXlYP0iC1yBz5IvbZHjrT-JZPAGSJ2D3z7PyGU1U6IVAMrmCYxlpg-fOKQCQd36XnG81yovVn2a4Ka9BZxSU9sFbrZF/s320/20150901_151131+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Et Voila anchored at Waya Island</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBDtRupXAtOigaySVFQB4qZejbEOgNSEMDlzvZz-SdvLn-PALmzBPK2IxgfbuLPmccjqYZQYXpZnpOlXduJ6pw_qk2DN4h6W-5Z-ogCdlZIyZ7jrcONw3Cl6pUaeCphaPzpWB3nzE-me_0/s1600/GOPR3895+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBDtRupXAtOigaySVFQB4qZejbEOgNSEMDlzvZz-SdvLn-PALmzBPK2IxgfbuLPmccjqYZQYXpZnpOlXduJ6pw_qk2DN4h6W-5Z-ogCdlZIyZ7jrcONw3Cl6pUaeCphaPzpWB3nzE-me_0/s320/GOPR3895+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo nursing his little finger</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWRb61bnnDi8NmjSZvvPXv-6hQ2efnJXSUf8IOFIxRGSFhJ1XDU6Q4KUzrRNJLn8c__HmVOXo43RWieHRYapd9Pxk4sQ6zcPU2mN-32z06uWyW8z7zmvfICAYAeoEcKeN2NDbM1nQMM9fv/s1600/IMG_2449+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWRb61bnnDi8NmjSZvvPXv-6hQ2efnJXSUf8IOFIxRGSFhJ1XDU6Q4KUzrRNJLn8c__HmVOXo43RWieHRYapd9Pxk4sQ6zcPU2mN-32z06uWyW8z7zmvfICAYAeoEcKeN2NDbM1nQMM9fv/s320/IMG_2449+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqss93LK6LpFciS3ipTNJE1Kw7oUUGBgIntqMjdRnF_9DgphQJK8bg7gXLFoS72XQcB6DctYQ8sC5pC88l82de1oHkv0BVX2d0Vn7MUU4am5bWTIvfuKWTL9lwTKoYZdSw_QuBG-6cBN4v/s1600/IMG_2611+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="106" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqss93LK6LpFciS3ipTNJE1Kw7oUUGBgIntqMjdRnF_9DgphQJK8bg7gXLFoS72XQcB6DctYQ8sC5pC88l82de1oHkv0BVX2d0Vn7MUU4am5bWTIvfuKWTL9lwTKoYZdSw_QuBG-6cBN4v/s320/IMG_2611+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirShQ2mneMQnbqxkVlEo6eSjys2FlQS5UcnNjKndTAh37jGdC957asvaTiQzb1GLE4DLcKQkDhN1Etx3gIAx35zjJmq80S4BFGvgTQPXjolMzxfTUPWtk_8aB6G1JIvEdkV-YAyOoGrp-q/s1600/IMG_2625+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirShQ2mneMQnbqxkVlEo6eSjys2FlQS5UcnNjKndTAh37jGdC957asvaTiQzb1GLE4DLcKQkDhN1Etx3gIAx35zjJmq80S4BFGvgTQPXjolMzxfTUPWtk_8aB6G1JIvEdkV-YAyOoGrp-q/s320/IMG_2625+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christina took this stunning photo...that is Theo anchoring our dinghy on the beach at Waya Island</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDX_eIAEDMQNaGwN96hYEk8XWE4sv3tVGsiuc5pW7Hsl3ZPX1CFuMbiP6rpxGZtofPJG6RYB8uEzUmGFfbzudolI3LPtB-X7wDv81f_J2SzkQr9AIYSfVVX3RmKS6F9jHMy8sBm2Obz2N1/s1600/IMG_2671+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="77" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDX_eIAEDMQNaGwN96hYEk8XWE4sv3tVGsiuc5pW7Hsl3ZPX1CFuMbiP6rpxGZtofPJG6RYB8uEzUmGFfbzudolI3LPtB-X7wDv81f_J2SzkQr9AIYSfVVX3RmKS6F9jHMy8sBm2Obz2N1/s320/IMG_2671+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEuSgjuvbWZr5zMgMvmGzimjeavO_DMGTbHN2Q12SyrRv3W2bS3sQ9vIKNCb2HC1MbqagG9-niOc75nvp4WQja51K-dzW8K3lYRpi-sNJwcTCN1t0N7fQ5_iK0gqC9_JEZduDIMj32Z1jW/s1600/P1010343+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEuSgjuvbWZr5zMgMvmGzimjeavO_DMGTbHN2Q12SyrRv3W2bS3sQ9vIKNCb2HC1MbqagG9-niOc75nvp4WQja51K-dzW8K3lYRpi-sNJwcTCN1t0N7fQ5_iK0gqC9_JEZduDIMj32Z1jW/s320/P1010343+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAWlRQuPxMhTr-_5cl05MxR4b-yfbAKGgXBewP9vBFxaZcuV4yg8Zobc_kIw4fokTQ43hGBX3ef1a37FVJ4LMI15oUd_Wi2cll5Ry9WV24qW5dQL62pCqBDeuVqv14Osqx0CvAG5aVORw3/s1600/P1010515+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAWlRQuPxMhTr-_5cl05MxR4b-yfbAKGgXBewP9vBFxaZcuV4yg8Zobc_kIw4fokTQ43hGBX3ef1a37FVJ4LMI15oUd_Wi2cll5Ry9WV24qW5dQL62pCqBDeuVqv14Osqx0CvAG5aVORw3/s320/P1010515+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready to jump into the clear, blue water </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikgqX7rqoWLC9IKAFAt3foCZ3sGJH-5w2lTZ7dLejhZA5Yh1k2JWqCZrhNhMpuqWA_3IjRK4jX9SqMd6Jb2JwR1_86e_z-PGWF9BXVKkIJMEiatR0d96xGNCRWQrfXy-0BPAIfwq10KStV/s1600/P1010562+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikgqX7rqoWLC9IKAFAt3foCZ3sGJH-5w2lTZ7dLejhZA5Yh1k2JWqCZrhNhMpuqWA_3IjRK4jX9SqMd6Jb2JwR1_86e_z-PGWF9BXVKkIJMEiatR0d96xGNCRWQrfXy-0BPAIfwq10KStV/s320/P1010562+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo's favorite beer...Fiji Bitter</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnTISIEF4y3Aof-caXmvslOOK5vpEUgPHjhebG_mELG6ZBg6HHE-tyTHsxF02TaPN6J0cbAsFX2GRFQjGOGxuOMREvu1WT7M-HR6XIDuhk78ZNKS1vJTnrDu5N6BuQ4lH0dyK5RJpdvrVn/s1600/P1010583+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnTISIEF4y3Aof-caXmvslOOK5vpEUgPHjhebG_mELG6ZBg6HHE-tyTHsxF02TaPN6J0cbAsFX2GRFQjGOGxuOMREvu1WT7M-HR6XIDuhk78ZNKS1vJTnrDu5N6BuQ4lH0dyK5RJpdvrVn/s320/P1010583+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We were so grateful to have two weeks in Fiji together..so many beautiful memories</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjfJSmpINVOq_d4L3m_TwAcCCbc4RBueqqWTRcBtfchJd_Eq3XDgPFlCdOUptAlTw1xibWtptrSvMQiBFgMco5fKOuZgUbiyFlSDjHwfMTLWhvMS8MS9CZ80FZqaXdTEB-7H-Y4UeqSCgm/s1600/P1010587+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjfJSmpINVOq_d4L3m_TwAcCCbc4RBueqqWTRcBtfchJd_Eq3XDgPFlCdOUptAlTw1xibWtptrSvMQiBFgMco5fKOuZgUbiyFlSDjHwfMTLWhvMS8MS9CZ80FZqaXdTEB-7H-Y4UeqSCgm/s320/P1010587+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying dinner on board S/V Field Trip with Mark and Sarah</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the highlights of our trip...swimming with Manta Rays in Naviti Island.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuiXGaJrrWwo12IMdjwrfJ7hQcXEvTJB9Wj9RZfNTMgmhgTxkxCVs-_2ah4jQegB0nNF_FpPsGv3pComJAFzFdoJU5QAOeZqlyNYFN50TdRfMHltohjYRN9uwlB9pysV9MPJMF7nKsXsEN/s1600/P1010619+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuiXGaJrrWwo12IMdjwrfJ7hQcXEvTJB9Wj9RZfNTMgmhgTxkxCVs-_2ah4jQegB0nNF_FpPsGv3pComJAFzFdoJU5QAOeZqlyNYFN50TdRfMHltohjYRN9uwlB9pysV9MPJMF7nKsXsEN/s320/P1010619+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"A birthday is a good time to begin anew: throwing away the old habits, as you would old clothes, and never putting them on again." Happy Birthday to my dear friend Christina...you are beautiful inside and out...we love you!!!!!</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03471059532461159422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3358276371486559811.post-84465000546028387372015-06-07T14:27:00.001-07:002015-09-13T23:55:15.874-07:00Namena, Makogai, Fiji<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>MAY 30 – JUNE 3, 2015</b></div>
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<b>NAMENA ISLAND, FIJI</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Namena Marine Reserve consists of the entire reef that
surrounds Namena Island. It is a Marine Protected Area (MPA) which means there
is a total ban on fishing. Thank goodness the Fijians had the wisdom to protect
this beautiful place. There are over 600 species of fish living here, 300 types
of coral, and my favorite… sea turtles. Snorkeling here is like being dropped
in the center of the most colorful tropical aquarium you can imagine…and the
scuba diving is beyond words. There are too many dive spots to count! We saw
pinnacles that shot up from the ocean floor and housed all sorts of life and
colors. The reefs were so lovely and mesmerizing that, if we weren’t careful, we
could have easily lost track of how much time we had spent underwater. This is
diving nirvana…<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDtzWNLOTr9z5X7kE2YUS7uo6Vk_XTzQA9ML3ygUlgkshfLy8czRv4tUHlrHfy18U0_rds_ep0AVh5D9juHZ0STASZ_bJqGKgnZFlT-oo96zfmQfEakOcvoFaimhCe6jcgHCLRmQy0Vig-/s1600/P1010210+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDtzWNLOTr9z5X7kE2YUS7uo6Vk_XTzQA9ML3ygUlgkshfLy8czRv4tUHlrHfy18U0_rds_ep0AVh5D9juHZ0STASZ_bJqGKgnZFlT-oo96zfmQfEakOcvoFaimhCe6jcgHCLRmQy0Vig-/s320/P1010210+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The boys leaving for an early morning dive</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikOhFQd4iZjFW-ptl51fvJEhPqgSdb2wqgMv4co3iKJXLpMrOUmfzPW5wbg-KcEOzjb9NW3bLI0eAVh8XA8tQFs6aYTo-HZfJ0ith6c5B0ObfOBgsnVzbyHqgnngw3JrCVdkpJ-osE_aCa/s1600/IMG_1009+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikOhFQd4iZjFW-ptl51fvJEhPqgSdb2wqgMv4co3iKJXLpMrOUmfzPW5wbg-KcEOzjb9NW3bLI0eAVh8XA8tQFs6aYTo-HZfJ0ith6c5B0ObfOBgsnVzbyHqgnngw3JrCVdkpJ-osE_aCa/s320/IMG_1009+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo the fish</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC1Yf8UApgqlrI4dR2FLm_Fg3AwHASWhmZ0Xv4CXqWkMJLZeIqfKk1i4SHum-wRmwkeEYMaTaTIqlv7f09Dae0jmYWYGs7kBAulnW2gr3QtW5wC8JHA-dlyAqSqY9FlZKT_M0FRlCKZzXJ/s1600/IMG_1028+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC1Yf8UApgqlrI4dR2FLm_Fg3AwHASWhmZ0Xv4CXqWkMJLZeIqfKk1i4SHum-wRmwkeEYMaTaTIqlv7f09Dae0jmYWYGs7kBAulnW2gr3QtW5wC8JHA-dlyAqSqY9FlZKT_M0FRlCKZzXJ/s320/IMG_1028+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Has anyone seen Nemo?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRrO5COlZHx5LiZ01TWAgeoO_xvpoiGqAhaWdW6hSGU10VutsrujRlcQAr0l7aSoAahTfR5bUMDCEQvD9lHFdtiO_g6tqkIUpgnOpfHztxt-vaqAojuGbiQtYvJ-_cB-8HXEXj5377mVI-/s1600/IMG_1037+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRrO5COlZHx5LiZ01TWAgeoO_xvpoiGqAhaWdW6hSGU10VutsrujRlcQAr0l7aSoAahTfR5bUMDCEQvD9lHFdtiO_g6tqkIUpgnOpfHztxt-vaqAojuGbiQtYvJ-_cB-8HXEXj5377mVI-/s320/IMG_1037+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful images of Nemena Reef</td></tr>
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As for our winged friends, Namena Island has a very large
colony of Red-Footed Boobies. We anchored right by the trees where they were
nesting and they put on quite a show. From morning until night we could watch
their graceful take-offs and clumsy landings. The nests all seemed to contain
one young, white fuzzy chick, and every sundown was time for hundreds of
Red-Footed Boobies to soar high above the island as if in some sort of
celebration. Ever since we went bird watching in New Zealand, I carry my binoculars with me at all times. I truly love birds! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYMu2x34Fj1K8WCFtJroG8gAZUktceTwIZECZzg6nUD0e9Crg6GcuuPkOlQmP8X-nF9IL9MjkyVXzaIN0NgmbwQ3xxyOIZgTek1Gs4yuweQilKaSncjnNLCSOd25HsLd4Mt4MhLF_l8XlN/s1600/DSC_7511+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYMu2x34Fj1K8WCFtJroG8gAZUktceTwIZECZzg6nUD0e9Crg6GcuuPkOlQmP8X-nF9IL9MjkyVXzaIN0NgmbwQ3xxyOIZgTek1Gs4yuweQilKaSncjnNLCSOd25HsLd4Mt4MhLF_l8XlN/s320/DSC_7511+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Red-Footed Boobie</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRE7Zh7OMS4kBK1ohgU2GBCMzpz9zdtL_MCPiC-F2V8lNyxtvUwE65HRefCST7AAVRlVMchzJGQdSCZJ-Qu1mfeuPYa_yCNxGwwG9xSwXAjwfdYyeOC8aykgCVcEu6J0iZW-uNZMG-yA-Z/s1600/DSC_7460+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRE7Zh7OMS4kBK1ohgU2GBCMzpz9zdtL_MCPiC-F2V8lNyxtvUwE65HRefCST7AAVRlVMchzJGQdSCZJ-Qu1mfeuPYa_yCNxGwwG9xSwXAjwfdYyeOC8aykgCVcEu6J0iZW-uNZMG-yA-Z/s320/DSC_7460+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A nest with one adult and a fuzzy Boobie chick</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSgRf-c0A3OpelZw7UTxorCpzS7wU1qydT03ZdMTGZD8dK2I-hEhRO7NDRUi2AB_cvdIm1xuAEMF2pdVF0SFIvYhy3Pi_gEzXhN1crAmdvW_0osqRVVa_LSi0_Pf7mWJWr4EBIUItAokG-/s1600/DSC_7480+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSgRf-c0A3OpelZw7UTxorCpzS7wU1qydT03ZdMTGZD8dK2I-hEhRO7NDRUi2AB_cvdIm1xuAEMF2pdVF0SFIvYhy3Pi_gEzXhN1crAmdvW_0osqRVVa_LSi0_Pf7mWJWr4EBIUItAokG-/s320/DSC_7480+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We were really excited to scuba dive in Namena. Theo and I
do not have an air compressor for dive tanks on board. Instead we had invested
in a Hooka. A Hooka is a diving apparatus that does not require a tank or a BC
(buoyancy compensator). There is a floating motor that pushes air through hoses
that are attached to regulators. I have to say that the Hooka is a bit akward
to use. It is big, loud and the hoses are a bit frustrating if they get tangled.
Thankfully, for our first dive, we borrowed tanks from Gustaf on the sailboat Caminante.
That dive went very well and we were able to observe the two pinnacles that are
referred to as The Chimneys. When I dive I feel like I blend in with all of the
ocean life…like I belong down there. They don’t mind me and I am in awe of
them. Because of this serene feeling and the beauty that I saw underwater, I
wanted to dive every day. UNTIL….<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The next day, Theo and I hauled the Hooka into our dinghy
and headed back to The Chimneys for another dive. There was a stronger current
that day and just swimming to the pinnacles was tiring. If we stopped swimming
for a few seconds, the current would spit us back where we started in no time!
Anyway, we descended down to about 35 feet and everything was going nicely.
Whenever I dive, I focus on taking deep, slow breaths because it soothes me. I
had just finished a long exhale, but when I tried to breathe air back in… there
wasn’t any. The air had suddenly stopped flowing through our hoses. I looked at Theo, but he just did an
underwater shrug and motioned me to surface.
I needed air and the only air available to me was on the surface of the
water. I had already exhaled most of the air in my lungs, so swimming up 35
feet was very uncomfortable and seemed to take forever. I reached the surface and immediately started
looking for Theo. I had assumed that he was right behind me, but he was nowhere
to be seen. I had my moment of panic and briefly imagined in my mind all the
things that might have happened to him.
Once I realized that he was not going to surface, I put my head back
underwater…and there he was. He was breathing comfortably through his regulator
in about 20 feet of water fiddling with the Hooka hose. Apparently, while he was swimming to the
surface, he found a kink in one of the hoses that was blocking our air supply.
Once it was all fixed he came up to where I was floating and said “Why did you swim
up? Just wait next time… I would have
figured out the problem”. My response to
him was, “Hell no, I like my life and would rather continue breathing”.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We tried to dive back
down, but at that point, the hoses were getting tangled because of the current
and we decided it was not worth it. Needless to say, the Hooka is not my favorite
diving apparatus and we will be investing in an air compressor and tanks in the
very near future. Theo continued to dive daily with his friends Mark and Gustaf.
In the meantime, I was more than happy to snorkel the gorgeous reef at the
surface of the water!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9T0S4UhDO3vXhtIeDNZqFa2ooe-tbJk9a-8qJu79xOn-CaljFTxXiaadEGC5lhQatdoP32JIaxUIpBmHDFT-p_XP7CTZIDDs6LG_jSFmzDQI6wF4G7yGftJMUzIZaccCNuBjAbnRQMY2m/s1600/P1000965+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9T0S4UhDO3vXhtIeDNZqFa2ooe-tbJk9a-8qJu79xOn-CaljFTxXiaadEGC5lhQatdoP32JIaxUIpBmHDFT-p_XP7CTZIDDs6LG_jSFmzDQI6wF4G7yGftJMUzIZaccCNuBjAbnRQMY2m/s320/P1000965+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy Birthday Theo! We had a small celebration on Et Voila</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRHThxwANmYCi31dugYq1dlGtdg0M9cxK54hfBZyk4CY1yg95X7l_ZTWuZIVtV6h3UUT9-XkWcQrUeMoVT4ynVXj4a-VV8Ml0oUUr0L-vy6ANU5dG03rcOCKFdJHPv_aZSfll99kavMdNG/s1600/P1000973+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRHThxwANmYCi31dugYq1dlGtdg0M9cxK54hfBZyk4CY1yg95X7l_ZTWuZIVtV6h3UUT9-XkWcQrUeMoVT4ynVXj4a-VV8Ml0oUUr0L-vy6ANU5dG03rcOCKFdJHPv_aZSfll99kavMdNG/s320/P1000973+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>LESSON:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-If using a Hooka, make sure the hose does not kink and do an
easy, shallow dive.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>QUOTE:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Either write something worth reading or do something worth
writing” – Benjamin Franklin<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>FIJIAN LANGUAGE:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Wasawasa – Ocean<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Cakau – Coral Reef<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Nunu - Dive<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Cegu – Breathe<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Vodea – Shallow<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>JUNE 3 – 5, 2015 <o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>MAKOGAI ISLAND, FIJI</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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We sailed another 25 miles to Makogai Island with our
friends on Field Trip and Caminante close behind. As we approached the island,
we could see the small village materializing before our eyes and we were certain
that the villagers had already spotted our sails approaching from miles away…having
visitors is a big deal! Once we dropped anchor, we quickly changed into
appropriate clothing and went on shore with our gift of Kava for the chief. As
expected, we were greeted as soon as our feet touched the sand. We told him of
our intention to visit Makogai for a few days. He then led us to his home for
the Sevusevu ceremony. We sat on the floor in a semicircle while he spoke for a
few minutes in the Fijian language. When he finished, we sensed that all had
gone well and he had accepted us into his village. We exchanged stories for a
while and then he took us on a tour of his village. The tour included
blood-sucking mosquitos…I hate them.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqpslI-DMN99PfmCQbyX0aIpe-IvDhwy7PK8l4jKAWGKq2P9cSSrc3BNlFDsz8-1gg7_JGLli33AeMUUprXCWTaGCzVS2t5GqUem3XsP5bw3xt3LMEXwQUtlao0zRUMvETGIcaYfbwqgcr/s1600/P1010024+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqpslI-DMN99PfmCQbyX0aIpe-IvDhwy7PK8l4jKAWGKq2P9cSSrc3BNlFDsz8-1gg7_JGLli33AeMUUprXCWTaGCzVS2t5GqUem3XsP5bw3xt3LMEXwQUtlao0zRUMvETGIcaYfbwqgcr/s320/P1010024+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the tool used to pound dried kava root into powder.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw3TrDTOnczGsdaGsXGipfoegUqTswkNuU0z4tkc3Yrh1zheWBkFjwaamdU3z8c9ak3lyFdsim2dgdvqNMzG6RpFX_T4o_JegNXYN4rKrG7XCT21HvtzKnjTQ86x1vDaKBURTxcf2zP29x/s1600/IMG_1158+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw3TrDTOnczGsdaGsXGipfoegUqTswkNuU0z4tkc3Yrh1zheWBkFjwaamdU3z8c9ak3lyFdsim2dgdvqNMzG6RpFX_T4o_JegNXYN4rKrG7XCT21HvtzKnjTQ86x1vDaKBURTxcf2zP29x/s320/IMG_1158+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The powder is strained and mixed with water for the Sevusevu ceremony.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxAoTdM_3uMMALddZGajZLrdX3p-iL6ykjEwMDwgOzeArVtowiyxbzoeQWOxYbQqqPJRHYHqdCEwCNvuQ4NETAZ4o_CVA3zNCiJA3zLA-Y-0vl04dvBQaiu7FlwoEaZLTDpWloJVpOf3yg/s1600/P1010153+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxAoTdM_3uMMALddZGajZLrdX3p-iL6ykjEwMDwgOzeArVtowiyxbzoeQWOxYbQqqPJRHYHqdCEwCNvuQ4NETAZ4o_CVA3zNCiJA3zLA-Y-0vl04dvBQaiu7FlwoEaZLTDpWloJVpOf3yg/s320/P1010153+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo drinking kava from a cup made out of coconut shell called a Bilo.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVqPClFmUIpZ5DlyRa04jcAcQl1nIC5GFNlmlWojsbod3GieLKspc2DMoECS89F-guHROmUvGAKptHu4jhN9c2vGw0W42wNT_J_NBQ0eyPBnuheb2CACdfSk9_MAy2k6NMwpw0HzkJ7t8r/s1600/IMG_1760+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVqPClFmUIpZ5DlyRa04jcAcQl1nIC5GFNlmlWojsbod3GieLKspc2DMoECS89F-guHROmUvGAKptHu4jhN9c2vGw0W42wNT_J_NBQ0eyPBnuheb2CACdfSk9_MAy2k6NMwpw0HzkJ7t8r/s320/IMG_1760+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The beginning of our village tour.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGKJigCZQjBVETxZZK1F0HCJ_gjbM8lP93ql8_M2CkLKdgMJJjQGIWxOEH6iNLOwk00Vx08BSxxcG-srKuQimaoRbXKj3l84Ia4dJK2iVCpAeb0Ua04mtkunbOIie4GO8hTZBi5BxUdPXW/s1600/IMG_1779+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGKJigCZQjBVETxZZK1F0HCJ_gjbM8lP93ql8_M2CkLKdgMJJjQGIWxOEH6iNLOwk00Vx08BSxxcG-srKuQimaoRbXKj3l84Ia4dJK2iVCpAeb0Ua04mtkunbOIie4GO8hTZBi5BxUdPXW/s320/IMG_1779+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The village representative that greeted us on the beach...he picked papayas for us.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOjLlD9V2u7QSRRhpUsxNr1-RTyQiCWxeH9lvppYIycuLyH6UxufaFPRfjz6KojKj2v-GiVzy5x-VPLvFTeVQXC8P8WDLkqsOkYC_5q0UaPVRip7bk07wSdD2ER3recFH1kvtZGBlVvK21/s1600/P1010173+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOjLlD9V2u7QSRRhpUsxNr1-RTyQiCWxeH9lvppYIycuLyH6UxufaFPRfjz6KojKj2v-GiVzy5x-VPLvFTeVQXC8P8WDLkqsOkYC_5q0UaPVRip7bk07wSdD2ER3recFH1kvtZGBlVvK21/s320/P1010173+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> There are over 1,000 graves at this leper colony era cemetery.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Makogai Island was once home to the only leper colony in Fiji.
It was transformed in the mid 1900’s and has now grown into a quaint village
with children and a school. The people of Makogai are also known for
cultivating several species of clams, and for their conservation work with
injured and sick sea turtles. While we were there, three men carried in a large
green sea turtle that was blind in one eye and, for some unknown reason, was
unable to dive down into the water. It
was amazing to watch them bring her in.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzax9N6zj9u2y0zpDEAL9-p69uiiU0VjUUxGTewXyC9JiKVRZywE9JvCx46XkUc_jlWGvdfb39h0O2F7g22K74zEft6Cznu5cIQt4ICSZrH45WnGaDXIhHXvm_DL47Ka_s-w-eUHUU7TWg/s1600/IMG_6440+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzax9N6zj9u2y0zpDEAL9-p69uiiU0VjUUxGTewXyC9JiKVRZywE9JvCx46XkUc_jlWGvdfb39h0O2F7g22K74zEft6Cznu5cIQt4ICSZrH45WnGaDXIhHXvm_DL47Ka_s-w-eUHUU7TWg/s320/IMG_6440+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Transferring the unwell green sea turtle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU71x09NguR43hj60bQ_DvRzMVyboEd8SR5Dc4Km9VJChAyGtv2BlFPTHqjeKZd4zM0ha4fXR-nIj8CCr_mvimuIKkEPSlqFgdgJY2Cqh491W7F9_9rOsPGRjUOyZKG1t3t-A1f3snqEz-/s1600/P1010070+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU71x09NguR43hj60bQ_DvRzMVyboEd8SR5Dc4Km9VJChAyGtv2BlFPTHqjeKZd4zM0ha4fXR-nIj8CCr_mvimuIKkEPSlqFgdgJY2Cqh491W7F9_9rOsPGRjUOyZKG1t3t-A1f3snqEz-/s320/P1010070+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Her new home for a while</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That evening, we dined on Yellowfin Tuna that Mark and Sarah
from Field Trip had reeled in during their sail to Makogai. While we were
enjoying our dinner, a cruise ship carrying about seventy passengers dropped
anchor in our tranquil bay. Its bright white lights against the darkness of the
night made it look like we had been descended upon by an extra-terrestrial
space ship. Oh well…at least it is good for the village and in the end, they
didn’t stay very long.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJSoxBAoPJDPaQ-_5Wd9cNLmM_q0XjSEWfiKzI1_hR2B1-4quGMK7ztQawmsOZ0uBhvQbLbvroBe-204WRphsfy4b1Wy1G4tNzB-4zb3z7L3_ZENIzZbntr7kW43YvadQscYzcuUsyyRFn/s1600/IMG_1817+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJSoxBAoPJDPaQ-_5Wd9cNLmM_q0XjSEWfiKzI1_hR2B1-4quGMK7ztQawmsOZ0uBhvQbLbvroBe-204WRphsfy4b1Wy1G4tNzB-4zb3z7L3_ZENIzZbntr7kW43YvadQscYzcuUsyyRFn/s320/IMG_1817+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo goofing around on Caminante after our Yellowfin Tuna sashimi night...the extra-terrestrial cruise ship is in the background.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Because of the presence of the cruise ship, the village was
hosting a special dance and Sevusevu ceremony. I chose my favorite (comfortable
and light) green dress for the occasion, accompanied by my squishy, bright
green flip flop sandals. Theo looked handsome in his black Sulu with a tropical
shirt. We approached the village in our dinghy and decided to anchor it by the
rocky side of the pier instead of the beach. As we approached the shore, I
gathered up my dress and stepped onto a rock, but when my squishy sandal made
contact with the water it suddenly became extremely slippery and my foot twisted
out to the side. I lost my balance and ended up in the water which,
unfortunately for me, was filled with sharp coral. I got myself out and slowly
limped onto the pier to assess the damage. I was bleeding, but they were not
deep cuts…mostly my right hand and my left knee and foot. I wrung out my dress
and used a towel to blot the blood. During all of this, Theo was calling me
from the dinghy trying to convince me to get back in so he could take me to Et
Voila for first aid. I stood on the pier defiantly saying “No, I don’t want
to!” I’m sure I sounded like a spoiled child, but I didn’t want to miss the
dance show! He ended up bringing the first aid kit to shore and we slapped some
bandages on minutes before the performance started. I was soaking wet and a bit bloody, but no one
seemed to notice. I have climbed in and out of that dinghy hundreds of times in
the past year. I even managed the truly treacherous dinghy dock back in Niue
without a scrape! Oh well, no real harm done…I just felt clumsy, old and silly.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizNkrCsqQi18AbNmXS3TuTBBIVaA7TThTxVXRgc_e6AhxhMcK4jR5I-6w6lOif-ay-uLYXzMRPEo-m6kKsgIozUwK5yL1Q_xkN46A6vR4fDE9MVkc2CjviAmIbw-hiAhz9IJosjMHssxe0/s1600/P1010132+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizNkrCsqQi18AbNmXS3TuTBBIVaA7TThTxVXRgc_e6AhxhMcK4jR5I-6w6lOif-ay-uLYXzMRPEo-m6kKsgIozUwK5yL1Q_xkN46A6vR4fDE9MVkc2CjviAmIbw-hiAhz9IJosjMHssxe0/s320/P1010132+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo looks handsome in his sulu. My dress is wet here (post fall) and those are the offending bright-green, squishy sandals.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEideSUlKFZCKvdqbPYlmphlgKqgm3raEzmLFXX-8ProEJH9i85KKr44PjpHLqFnIN7gctTJoFhmwMImlllOedCe_9u_Z4AmmEwla6Pn5DQKY-NjS8H5gbVd2igLm04CJ5PZvv1G8AyHQfuN/s1600/IMG_6460+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEideSUlKFZCKvdqbPYlmphlgKqgm3raEzmLFXX-8ProEJH9i85KKr44PjpHLqFnIN7gctTJoFhmwMImlllOedCe_9u_Z4AmmEwla6Pn5DQKY-NjS8H5gbVd2igLm04CJ5PZvv1G8AyHQfuN/s320/IMG_6460+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The villagers of Makogai Island</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHFrpqOTthyp2KOpB_jo-3KiS6Qe-NITV361N7g3XYg12hc7snUSb__Kc0s3MFZzw_z2dmaOYyAh8ecd_C3zISMFOrN-ZLFUrWLtHI3N_9W-KMU5i6Jw7tJ0sLp2D5aW4-sM5MFbmub3Pm/s1600/P1010103+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHFrpqOTthyp2KOpB_jo-3KiS6Qe-NITV361N7g3XYg12hc7snUSb__Kc0s3MFZzw_z2dmaOYyAh8ecd_C3zISMFOrN-ZLFUrWLtHI3N_9W-KMU5i6Jw7tJ0sLp2D5aW4-sM5MFbmub3Pm/s320/P1010103+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The dance show</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWmTHwKVJteY1HN33OoO58NpOpmA2VmekjOTgm1TS69mY5Zbq3HzcbleQTKngPxh-JnHYA2ILy9K54uY1R11Auuu_G-KeXwwLCl6aXy56u0nwlLEVZtPVV5v6CUaHq73r1ROT3_Ef9xq8T/s1600/P1010100+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWmTHwKVJteY1HN33OoO58NpOpmA2VmekjOTgm1TS69mY5Zbq3HzcbleQTKngPxh-JnHYA2ILy9K54uY1R11Auuu_G-KeXwwLCl6aXy56u0nwlLEVZtPVV5v6CUaHq73r1ROT3_Ef9xq8T/s320/P1010100+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Many of the children had never seen such a large group of people, so some stared at us in confusion most of the time.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMk2V7YLkO9ztj71vFoZmCWmjPhYEb0i5h1_FONNr2xMKkzYRtQB8Sr3t48gVVUTUHMtSHI71uVdK7bSsOnwZr1clxzEWJHoFgkblDr1vS2A32ZaIOJoQgoiqUTs6CXaEo5-XUqYm1t_Ec/s1600/IMG_0594+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMk2V7YLkO9ztj71vFoZmCWmjPhYEb0i5h1_FONNr2xMKkzYRtQB8Sr3t48gVVUTUHMtSHI71uVdK7bSsOnwZr1clxzEWJHoFgkblDr1vS2A32ZaIOJoQgoiqUTs6CXaEo5-XUqYm1t_Ec/s320/IMG_0594+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The lovely ladies...Tina and Sarah</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3BVtXAzYz8n4MhAxJ5ObqFXxlInkHwIMIm6dj5OlU90Yrh1Ze47k3Rjmvx_ooTsCfy7vVuu8u_BtcvWv4cjPIPI21Q8Kbs5A2wifbv9R_NnkBtZhPA8hAGCkbyPFYHZ0xLE5KTm6VE6Zn/s1600/IMG_1397+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3BVtXAzYz8n4MhAxJ5ObqFXxlInkHwIMIm6dj5OlU90Yrh1Ze47k3Rjmvx_ooTsCfy7vVuu8u_BtcvWv4cjPIPI21Q8Kbs5A2wifbv9R_NnkBtZhPA8hAGCkbyPFYHZ0xLE5KTm6VE6Zn/s320/IMG_1397+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More children from the school. They use this boat to travel from one side of the island to the other.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1geKmcujYIZhqSAgNfb5rYbjXtvBY5lIVz_44wD1MyhiZ5gYPy1hOv5F2D16T-fY_vLHA7CXIfL_TxKXvHNQBDh9Le_gqB2FNqHzqadmyj4bUiAHo0uD9ZGbSxM-DSSs3MFnr2eCpzYg1/s1600/IMG_6473+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1geKmcujYIZhqSAgNfb5rYbjXtvBY5lIVz_44wD1MyhiZ5gYPy1hOv5F2D16T-fY_vLHA7CXIfL_TxKXvHNQBDh9Le_gqB2FNqHzqadmyj4bUiAHo0uD9ZGbSxM-DSSs3MFnr2eCpzYg1/s320/IMG_6473+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leaving the beach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaPhxF80RTQeMJek40L94ebpUbd6banw2ajXUVsLHXAY0yrL5Z24VuQwubHDJSAKMRMURkQeGvtcgU2ru_22e58mD6r2qrZEnjNJND3xYwr-XAGc4ReRppMU-Mm-ESkrCJo6y2DJh4R1DN/s1600/P1010179+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaPhxF80RTQeMJek40L94ebpUbd6banw2ajXUVsLHXAY0yrL5Z24VuQwubHDJSAKMRMURkQeGvtcgU2ru_22e58mD6r2qrZEnjNJND3xYwr-XAGc4ReRppMU-Mm-ESkrCJo6y2DJh4R1DN/s320/P1010179+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo, Gustaf and Mark</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijKTT3PyvLAtFKr6_LTVDqOhM7x7ilOnB1WJPZR4B1k1W3jqP4b6j-xvu_533Jd5MLriBGSygPXjp3em8m7b_T-rnYq4XGz9jHrvNfEBt7m7L8MJi_2zLdOgevwQ6Gi6U7nfgCf7aazngu/s1600/P1010202+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijKTT3PyvLAtFKr6_LTVDqOhM7x7ilOnB1WJPZR4B1k1W3jqP4b6j-xvu_533Jd5MLriBGSygPXjp3em8m7b_T-rnYq4XGz9jHrvNfEBt7m7L8MJi_2zLdOgevwQ6Gi6U7nfgCf7aazngu/s320/P1010202+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A beautiful farewell</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Theo and I have found that a life of cruising is more about
the people you meet than the destination. It also means saying good-bye… A LOT.
We have spent time with other sailors
who have become dear to us, and at some point we must let them go, knowing very
well that we will probably never cross paths with them again. For example, we
met Gustaf and Tina from the Swedish sailboat Caminante over one year ago while
in the Marquesas. When we leave Makogai Island, we will have to say our
good-byes because they will be sailing from Fiji towards Indonesia. This is
incredibly sad for us… perhaps with time we will grow accustomed to saying our
goodbyes. Not all people we meet in life are meant to stay until the end. I
guess we will just have to learn what we can from them, hold on to the memories
and be grateful that we were with them for that brief time.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguNOLhF23d5gDp4HzduHXv7Ia-lou6dqymgSsqoAyFOzuP9sJs1p9XL21lYmX1n5r-haA7TOP3z15dlGfTPm85uNzOM-StJ70Y57dJy1g826tRmnn-6UEwi7Lp0ls7eheXqtS6kp4UGQ7g/s1600/IMG_0365+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguNOLhF23d5gDp4HzduHXv7Ia-lou6dqymgSsqoAyFOzuP9sJs1p9XL21lYmX1n5r-haA7TOP3z15dlGfTPm85uNzOM-StJ70Y57dJy1g826tRmnn-6UEwi7Lp0ls7eheXqtS6kp4UGQ7g/s320/IMG_0365+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Louisa, Gustaf, Corinne and Tina from S/V Caminante</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On our last, rainy morning anchored outside Makogai, we were
approached by a small boat. It was the chief’s son bringing a mountain of
gorgeous, ripe papayas and bananas from the village. We were very grateful, and
in return gifted him more Kava. This island was a wonderful cultural
experience.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK-AZhfgI0FUiDRUcmvUFGM4vd7hFKvS6mLJJuLWlrAOzXrk4T6W-LVPAsfM4mkfdgFhH_lMYgNVvVnrGGOdl-yc0MoqMLfzrSRAp0ADw7u1UmCBJyiSXiizgprs1zMFmmNoF0-SW2piiw/s1600/IMG_0597+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK-AZhfgI0FUiDRUcmvUFGM4vd7hFKvS6mLJJuLWlrAOzXrk4T6W-LVPAsfM4mkfdgFhH_lMYgNVvVnrGGOdl-yc0MoqMLfzrSRAp0ADw7u1UmCBJyiSXiizgprs1zMFmmNoF0-SW2piiw/s320/IMG_0597+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The chief's son bringing us papayas and bananas</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>LESSONS:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-If the villagers warn you about the mosquitos on their
island, take it very seriously….spray on the deet and then keep a tube of
Cortisone Cream on the night stand.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Do not try to be cute and wear bright- colored, squishy
sandals. Wear proper shoes…always.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>QUOTE:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Life is 10% what happens to me and 90% percent of how I
react to it” – Charles Swindoll<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>FIJIAN LANGUAGE:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Lutu – Fall<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mavoa – Injured<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dra – Blood<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dredre - Laugh<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>JUNE 5-10, 2015<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>MUSKET COVE AND VUDA MARINA</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We sailed on to Musket Cove and stayed for a few nights.
Mark and Sarah from Field Trip were with us and we had a very relaxing time
together.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Vuda Marina is where we will leave Et Voila while we fly
home to Los Angeles for a few months. Once we arrived there, we immediately
pulled up to the fuel dock to fill our tanks. The marina is configured in a
circular shape and it feels very tight once inside. All eyes were on us as Theo
maneuvered to get to the fuel station, and once there, we were greeted with
guitars and singing! It was a bit embarrassed to have so much attention on us
during our arrival...Oh well.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcXD-new6uNhK3g8Tz9wgrZ7EgCkp_LETsO_tCiXs2CPng2eHkFu9U8zn6tpQ3Gxyinffpl62DJcHAMU1mcJxCo6fZ_B_RBqaScqUawK7cMd0TvfzQhmnJmgi9oqJkqSSIlxGOsz9uP32a/s1600/P1010265+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcXD-new6uNhK3g8Tz9wgrZ7EgCkp_LETsO_tCiXs2CPng2eHkFu9U8zn6tpQ3Gxyinffpl62DJcHAMU1mcJxCo6fZ_B_RBqaScqUawK7cMd0TvfzQhmnJmgi9oqJkqSSIlxGOsz9uP32a/s320/P1010265+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is what awaited us as we pulled up to the fuel dock</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Theo and I talked quite a bit about the process of docking
the boat at Vuda. It is not your typical marina, and we thought we would have
to go stern in to our space. Thankfully, when it was time to take Et Voila’ to
the dock space, we were told that we would go bow in. We were both relieved,
but still asked for assistance on board. A young man named Lulu helped us to
get the lines ready. We needed two lines at the stern and two at the bow. We
also had a small motor boat helping at the stern and a man standing on shore to
get the bow lines....it was definitely a team effort, but in the end it went
smoothly with no drama.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Once settled, we hooked up to shore power and had water and
electricity. The only inconvenience was the ramp to go from our boat to
shore...it was a flimsy, narrow wooden plank that was not attached to anything.
We had to keep readjusting it because of the tide...not safe at all, but we
managed! Next was dinner and drinks at the sunset bar (just one drink because
we had to climb back up the flimsy ramp to our boat afterwards!) <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKIyzLqsx5XpyZxJX0kqoMrELGOCMREcK9T_HggS8cYT-vhlLN7uzfQswX7bXiJCh10lOnvVxcp2XrzY-f8BTLS7Xp58F9QOnMqJTr5G2IaBW5BRFXpNmtxKp3zj8m8W7Ugo2Ox-0ae5YI/s1600/20150805_134456+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKIyzLqsx5XpyZxJX0kqoMrELGOCMREcK9T_HggS8cYT-vhlLN7uzfQswX7bXiJCh10lOnvVxcp2XrzY-f8BTLS7Xp58F9QOnMqJTr5G2IaBW5BRFXpNmtxKp3zj8m8W7Ugo2Ox-0ae5YI/s320/20150805_134456+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo carrying supplies across the flimsy, narrow wooden plank</td></tr>
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We are flying to Los Angeles in a few days to be with family
and friends and will return in August to continue our sailing adventures in
Fiji. I am looking forward to our time at home.<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03471059532461159422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3358276371486559811.post-54729386606817021322015-05-27T18:08:00.000-07:002015-06-07T14:36:28.898-07:00Minerva Reef and Savusavu, Fiji<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>MAY 9 – MAY 19, 2015<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b>PASSAGE FROM MARSDEN COVE, NEW ZEALAND TO MINERVA REEF</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Theo and I cleared out
of New Zealand customs at Marsden Cove and swiftly left for Fiji with the hope
of stopping at Minerva Reef, weather permitting. Minerva Reef (north and south)
is a reef atoll submerged at anything but high tide. It is about halfway between
New Zealand and Tonga or Fiji and it offers some bad weather protection to
sailors. The water is crystal clear and the diving/snorkeling is amazing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Theo was fine during the
passage, but it took me a few days to get my “sea legs” back. The wind was not
as cooperative as we had hoped, but on May 15<sup>th</sup>, we finally arrived
at South Minerva Reef. We entered the pass without much drama and anchored by
three other catamarans that we know. We stayed in South Minerva for one night
and then sailed on to North Minerva, which was better protected from the
impressive 4 meter ocean swells. We anchored by the pass to be close to the
dive area. Right after we anchored, our full attention was on a small sailboat
(we later found out it was a Catalina 36) slowly going through the pass with
huge swells and braking waves behind it. To everyone’s relief they made it
through safely. The next day, a sailboat that entered the reef had lost its
mast just outside the pass. This is every sailor’s nightmare. Theo
and Gustaf went over to offer help and invite the captain and crew for dinner,
but they were quite shaken up and not in the mood to socialize…understandably
so. We were empathetic and humbled by their situation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">The remainder of our
time in Minerva Reef was filled with sleep, snorkeling, spear fishing, lobster
hunting and pot luck dinners. It was a good decision to take a few days pause
there.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXt2FC-mmXkhOtnSq-tJNvB2hd7dTQQZmDJ17DWD1oza0iJBXkAaTXbNcS5yc9rwo2CqyJ9qlrMdjC6SO7WoA-__897nP_mKq0SjyggIT_ZHzUZsnlk8nC7_K1NC5E9J12u2X0j2PGnwna/s1600/DSC_0347+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXt2FC-mmXkhOtnSq-tJNvB2hd7dTQQZmDJ17DWD1oza0iJBXkAaTXbNcS5yc9rwo2CqyJ9qlrMdjC6SO7WoA-__897nP_mKq0SjyggIT_ZHzUZsnlk8nC7_K1NC5E9J12u2X0j2PGnwna/s320/DSC_0347+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A bird resting on our speaker during the passage to Minerva Reef</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6vR0ZAj4DDf8UhIBCLPV_I9-uQafwRrwxEfeavmrsuMtkA1p4VVuau2yIPYIvOpVDqX33iECF3lAL3dd0QIxPlxVjVEaXltvT34TZgpjFyS8COIr1bRikkho01UFkeAZjtii9N4BhLqlm/s1600/Buddy+Boats+%25232+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6vR0ZAj4DDf8UhIBCLPV_I9-uQafwRrwxEfeavmrsuMtkA1p4VVuau2yIPYIvOpVDqX33iECF3lAL3dd0QIxPlxVjVEaXltvT34TZgpjFyS8COIr1bRikkho01UFkeAZjtii9N4BhLqlm/s320/Buddy+Boats+%25232+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Left to right- Field Trip, Exodus, Et Voila and Lumbaz in South Minerva Reef</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtWF1KbOjraMXZUhAiHdkz9ao2ghuObk0vMajJ05uzHAshQQErekVlyjKJleeeDoQH2s77d3fPTKWRms9fsc8NSia6ncQIB6aNjPsXx5eWnE_6Cc10ttbDJOCyqb0aitK0Qzm-Co2u6S_o/s1600/Et+Voila+and+Lumbaz+S+Minerva+%25232+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtWF1KbOjraMXZUhAiHdkz9ao2ghuObk0vMajJ05uzHAshQQErekVlyjKJleeeDoQH2s77d3fPTKWRms9fsc8NSia6ncQIB6aNjPsXx5eWnE_6Cc10ttbDJOCyqb0aitK0Qzm-Co2u6S_o/s320/Et+Voila+and+Lumbaz+S+Minerva+%25232+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Et Voila anchored next to Lumbaz in South Minerva Reef </td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHn6Ic94Tro6-aV3X-sd9QTV5lwlNdTy75XyT-8H13SSzTqJmsBRyrQLalzVCI2xRGL2YG3jeeNaNiF_SgklRzLqGrcIYwcdSIoG7U6ap9_XMFYk6snTJIsaKjFRgG7eYGzW7mz_s1BYL0/s1600/P1000023+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHn6Ic94Tro6-aV3X-sd9QTV5lwlNdTy75XyT-8H13SSzTqJmsBRyrQLalzVCI2xRGL2YG3jeeNaNiF_SgklRzLqGrcIYwcdSIoG7U6ap9_XMFYk6snTJIsaKjFRgG7eYGzW7mz_s1BYL0/s320/P1000023+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisGk3ba-wsmxoUgQaUdNU8eMA0VHM31DkG_As4hvROVqVu2R_nfpqssA9TbLyUsDwa6H7FL9scGmC9DPn38ySFocVCVFRfdtF4F6njZmJ57faWi5BiSEaZdMiog7d-fadpOB3mwJsCMPLx/s1600/P1000015+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisGk3ba-wsmxoUgQaUdNU8eMA0VHM31DkG_As4hvROVqVu2R_nfpqssA9TbLyUsDwa6H7FL9scGmC9DPn38ySFocVCVFRfdtF4F6njZmJ57faWi5BiSEaZdMiog7d-fadpOB3mwJsCMPLx/s320/P1000015+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Standing on the reef during low tide with my friend Tina from Caminante</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFac1UbjV4vUWqf-ICWEeJay3ex3IocX-673EB1FOYV_a2dYwQZdyAT4AvAqPyPuHQZv5br8WadDJxQiU7aUdmRTLkv_QELcWQapHiNlUxR_eit3go-DfhyphenhyphennRP330xHcotyanptgEIJis5/s1600/P1000952+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFac1UbjV4vUWqf-ICWEeJay3ex3IocX-673EB1FOYV_a2dYwQZdyAT4AvAqPyPuHQZv5br8WadDJxQiU7aUdmRTLkv_QELcWQapHiNlUxR_eit3go-DfhyphenhyphennRP330xHcotyanptgEIJis5/s320/P1000952+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A potluck with friends on board the sailing vessel Caminante</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-6R8qlGIQuNHCUzvHmMTHHM-MO1xctJpu2MU0jyjefO_yBBIOyPf3oIV9tgus-vxTQseawzIXd6DjWr8lwfI0WJpMHIU5pPrpwktHPD-KxJwsYr_R7cu3HRlkiQqG7puYWG5EaSPyrERP/s1600/IMG_0839+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-6R8qlGIQuNHCUzvHmMTHHM-MO1xctJpu2MU0jyjefO_yBBIOyPf3oIV9tgus-vxTQseawzIXd6DjWr8lwfI0WJpMHIU5pPrpwktHPD-KxJwsYr_R7cu3HRlkiQqG7puYWG5EaSPyrERP/s320/IMG_0839+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After dinner, the girls acted out a play they wrote themselves</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6juI1yjZmbIf2lVLnJF12KEgDVQDGZkOaUc1xSs-GEjN2vu88cCmX9_AdRoLMQS6KVlnMa1zIcd9KjtBx3FMWXAijYAzu_-nNjFDCpY1G4U6p7UQYtVSJcBXHiwqF8UGbNAHYMEPQEEIb/s1600/P1000941+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6juI1yjZmbIf2lVLnJF12KEgDVQDGZkOaUc1xSs-GEjN2vu88cCmX9_AdRoLMQS6KVlnMa1zIcd9KjtBx3FMWXAijYAzu_-nNjFDCpY1G4U6p7UQYtVSJcBXHiwqF8UGbNAHYMEPQEEIb/s320/P1000941+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo on his way to the reef to hunt for lobsters</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxFA6oQvuGQ-7By-H9BptZ9-YXp6y9UAzmWz59ieosNeQWk-7ctXrX4X7Fg9oGCrpFkYBL1aaKMtMCkwdhvQh8PGk9W3IMtr8zzILnjtg3tsbL1vy30vx1Oypx62vaCN9OUeRhu_aSseEU/s1600/P1000945+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxFA6oQvuGQ-7By-H9BptZ9-YXp6y9UAzmWz59ieosNeQWk-7ctXrX4X7Fg9oGCrpFkYBL1aaKMtMCkwdhvQh8PGk9W3IMtr8zzILnjtg3tsbL1vy30vx1Oypx62vaCN9OUeRhu_aSseEU/s320/P1000945+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifvbTuysoyZitc2A42Yh3culr28XudbPPcuL5AqIRWver8HRQlA0cCCY2vInSu4LvyMyOfizxQ49S3xDAJYZjx2K2zYZ2Y7WkK8zN1cTz-khy-R4hH6ori_QTVV-W3nG18NAxcamweWyRT/s1600/P1000947+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifvbTuysoyZitc2A42Yh3culr28XudbPPcuL5AqIRWver8HRQlA0cCCY2vInSu4LvyMyOfizxQ49S3xDAJYZjx2K2zYZ2Y7WkK8zN1cTz-khy-R4hH6ori_QTVV-W3nG18NAxcamweWyRT/s320/P1000947+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After a day of spearfishing, Theo and Brenan show off their catch!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHC_i1J0qujlzqnQRcnhwc6D4wweX-by15nUKe88o7a_seygyYxJnxLI9n2G8-eqrMMWBB0cuvAKQ6_HZGRxRto2hw6axpelWquLy3JQ2VvanYrtVFZwWtsYvLcNf-O8ZZkn02B8IbpC-B/s1600/IMG_0373+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHC_i1J0qujlzqnQRcnhwc6D4wweX-by15nUKe88o7a_seygyYxJnxLI9n2G8-eqrMMWBB0cuvAKQ6_HZGRxRto2hw6axpelWquLy3JQ2VvanYrtVFZwWtsYvLcNf-O8ZZkn02B8IbpC-B/s320/IMG_0373+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo, Mark and Tim doing maintanence on Mark's Hooka equipment.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoyGTXakm3J9LL4w-vmnAwCm5-xWroyZS9JUIIG0yPk590hYYDkU3Broorihl7pfPy4o52TFLUD5pWyq73hyphenhyphenAlnHtmxF15Yk4bvyWVErlpZuzDumyYXsGrPV-V7-zFXE2gcrn_yFsXMLcQ/s1600/IMG_1711+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoyGTXakm3J9LL4w-vmnAwCm5-xWroyZS9JUIIG0yPk590hYYDkU3Broorihl7pfPy4o52TFLUD5pWyq73hyphenhyphenAlnHtmxF15Yk4bvyWVErlpZuzDumyYXsGrPV-V7-zFXE2gcrn_yFsXMLcQ/s320/IMG_1711+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the pot luck dinners with Sarah, Jenny and Deanne.</td></tr>
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<b>MAY 22 – 28, 2015<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b>SAVUSAVU, FIJI</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">We entered the Copra
Shed Marina after sailing three days from Minerva Reef. The warm weather
and friendly people were very welcoming. The feeling I get in Fiji is different
than anywhere else. I is very relaxed and I feel whatever tension I have melt
away. It must be the fresh, cold coconut drinks! We have arrived in paradise.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">The marina was busy and
is a social hub for cruisers. It is a place to let your hair down after a long
passage and swap adventure stories with other sailors that are experiencing a
similar lifestyle. Theo and I quickly began stuffing load after load of damp,
smelly cloths and towels into bags for laundry service. A cheerful woman named
Marie happily took our belongings and later in the day returned them to us
soft, clean and folded…Yay! Simple pleasures.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">We walked into Savusavu
town and were impressed with the hustle and bustle. A lot seemed to be
happening. Right in the center is a bus station that is the main means of
transportation. I also noticed many taxis lined up near the buses, but from
what I could tell, no one ever got in one. The airport is five minutes away
from town and a taxi ride costs five Fijian dollars ($2.50 US) and if you want
to grab a Roti for lunch (Indian fast food), that will cost you one Fijian
dollar (you do the math). Amazing…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">When cruising to the
many islands in Fiji it is customary, if not mandatory, to partake in a
ceremony called Sevusevu. This is the essence of the Fijian culture. After
anchoring near a village, the captain and crew must meet with the chief and ask
to be accepted onto their island. Once onshore, a gift of Kava root must be
presented to the village headman. He will be on the beach waiting to greet you,
ask your intentions, and then present you and your gift to the chief and
village elders. Once the Kava has been drunk and stories exchanged, you are
considered to be part of the village and embraced by the people as one of their
own.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">When you are in a Fijian
village, it is best to be respectful and honor their way of life. One way of
doing this is to dress appropriately. Men wear a traditional Sulu (long skirt)
and shirt, while women wear a Chamba. A Chamba is a colorful, long skirt with a
matching top that covers the upper arms and shoulders. Knowing we would be
visiting many villages in the following months, I went shopping for one with a
group of friends. Many of the women I was with were tall and thin and the
Chamba fell just right and looked really pretty on them. I, on the other hand,
have a solid build and am vertically challenged. When I put the Chamba on, I
looked and felt miserable. It was way too much material for my body and the
fabric was stiff, scratchy, hot and made me sweat profusely. I know
when a Chamba is worn to the villages it is greatly appreciated in Fiji, but I
think life is too short to wear uncomfortable clothes. I did not buy a Chamba.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">During our time in
Savusavu, I noticed many stray dogs wandering around. They seemed very hungry
and I noticed that they hung around the outdoor market at lunchtime hoping that
someone would share their food. Theo and I still had kibble and cans of dog
food on the boat from when Mambo and Isabel were on board, so I began bringing
it with me whenever we went into town. It is a good thing we left when we did,
because in a few more days I would have been walking along with about ten
devoted dogs following my every step!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">As expected, we became
comfortable at the Copra Shed Marina. We had friends, conveniences and a solid
mooring ball… It was time to move on.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEKjFTkg6tXXBCMXmqwvUAIQF8ZU5bvxghlySLkzqnL3GvPL8b3uGWvaP3qtyB88qnfYKKB2uUtQbC1K30xjBmDX54FaLebWchj4htvygkI-yxNh4tyux_QhChFyjAiZd2xN1NUprOdyhK/s1600/DSC_0365+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEKjFTkg6tXXBCMXmqwvUAIQF8ZU5bvxghlySLkzqnL3GvPL8b3uGWvaP3qtyB88qnfYKKB2uUtQbC1K30xjBmDX54FaLebWchj4htvygkI-yxNh4tyux_QhChFyjAiZd2xN1NUprOdyhK/s320/DSC_0365+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Savusavu Marina, Fiji</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP8PRTEEmIiOaCGyysV1wk6Vne1E0HhpLXiKvFKNGrJopdJSye1tkRFpco0ENi5yJAy3eqQJcWzuWskx3MWpunE_8hrylXArrgg9T3aQukVDY1Oy8eskWwtPFtujl0EUKGlp_up_RhSXkc/s1600/P1000027+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP8PRTEEmIiOaCGyysV1wk6Vne1E0HhpLXiKvFKNGrJopdJSye1tkRFpco0ENi5yJAy3eqQJcWzuWskx3MWpunE_8hrylXArrgg9T3aQukVDY1Oy8eskWwtPFtujl0EUKGlp_up_RhSXkc/s320/P1000027+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Selling taro root at the vegetable market</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9EHt0w5cGDqSOZDPMn2xJ-4SsG92w6cAeHUeZ5X6v_i4pwHAnODSuGcHKTsvUt6NZ6uO1AU2PP4fk0yak3uzwbLyi52TLiRweIM607UmzGpcQx_Te3M0HBQbPZSl-XnHGDYoE1irQqzoi/s1600/P1000035+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9EHt0w5cGDqSOZDPMn2xJ-4SsG92w6cAeHUeZ5X6v_i4pwHAnODSuGcHKTsvUt6NZ6uO1AU2PP4fk0yak3uzwbLyi52TLiRweIM607UmzGpcQx_Te3M0HBQbPZSl-XnHGDYoE1irQqzoi/s320/P1000035+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is Kava...the real deal!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwasWpTXieAn3CFVP3-vq4fhOsv-a6eeZdgbd2jsSqSufNNt_NEhyphenhyphenyj-rMu6TGbGV0-LBylVXCExiHO6md29dp-0F9NY2Iv0FEhWVskcIk_aRxGovGUpYR5CnkfEKZFGwvKWQfSeAa-HSH/s1600/20150528_154627+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwasWpTXieAn3CFVP3-vq4fhOsv-a6eeZdgbd2jsSqSufNNt_NEhyphenhyphenyj-rMu6TGbGV0-LBylVXCExiHO6md29dp-0F9NY2Iv0FEhWVskcIk_aRxGovGUpYR5CnkfEKZFGwvKWQfSeAa-HSH/s320/20150528_154627+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Purchasing our bundles of kava for Sevusevu ceremonies </td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbhDLfKEqFAcFzoTzNh_UEXV7Bz7YM5W7FyhpvEX__6kXBR5JdXNnR12FmjodyxPMFjhAODpb8Dhkk-4BTJmImbu48Jwkqfz44MMoqhxohiOxqcIKAn_rws10Yk8_wc0TpZckBtAzl2LNZ/s1600/P1000047+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbhDLfKEqFAcFzoTzNh_UEXV7Bz7YM5W7FyhpvEX__6kXBR5JdXNnR12FmjodyxPMFjhAODpb8Dhkk-4BTJmImbu48Jwkqfz44MMoqhxohiOxqcIKAn_rws10Yk8_wc0TpZckBtAzl2LNZ/s320/P1000047+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEics1nSVVyOJXR2bdAX1zUcTOy2pdTRPfqzS4oNhs7uRvrmHXoOVQD5Zczfdr5Y6bkrGMtWETddSLdEgYPy3_Ca2AimLqzwXyqkiZQaKVTpBaxU2rSLZwihVKMTg2DBtAFt1rpAVVbC354W/s1600/P1000052+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEics1nSVVyOJXR2bdAX1zUcTOy2pdTRPfqzS4oNhs7uRvrmHXoOVQD5Zczfdr5Y6bkrGMtWETddSLdEgYPy3_Ca2AimLqzwXyqkiZQaKVTpBaxU2rSLZwihVKMTg2DBtAFt1rpAVVbC354W/s320/P1000052+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A member of the junior sailing club of Savusavu</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghqgYj_zL-C_Mrop0FANMsduZhnR7hcEOZVyL4EwXAeF0131U-MkJVj8Hov-t6lrCcK2qwDnQKNgC678UUqSSsxAnf-fgu-hIZSkjSKeTa53McaPLy0c8SNq5r-TSkEXCLH4SpeG8QNBVu/s1600/20150522_172933+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghqgYj_zL-C_Mrop0FANMsduZhnR7hcEOZVyL4EwXAeF0131U-MkJVj8Hov-t6lrCcK2qwDnQKNgC678UUqSSsxAnf-fgu-hIZSkjSKeTa53McaPLy0c8SNq5r-TSkEXCLH4SpeG8QNBVu/s320/20150522_172933+%2528Medium%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our first Fijian sunset as seen from the stern of Et Voila</td></tr>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">LESSON:</span></b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">-Ideally, I would have liked to respect Fijian culture and wear a Chamba into the villages, but life is too short (and so am I).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">QUOTE:</span></b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">-“Blessed is the person who can laugh at herself, for she will never cease to be amused”.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">FIJIAN LANGUAGE:</span></b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Bula – Hello, Greetings<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Turaga ni Koro – The appointed village headman (he is like the mayor)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Volivoli – Shopping<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Levu - Big<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Katakata – Hot<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03471059532461159422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3358276371486559811.post-14764641880631027762015-05-07T20:15:00.003-07:002015-05-07T20:26:24.669-07:00New Zealand - North Island<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>APRIL 12 – 17, 2015<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b>NORTH ISLAND, NEW ZEALAND<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b>WELLINGTON, NEW PLYMOUTH and the WAITOMO CAVES<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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We boarded the Inter Islander ferry again and crossed over
to Wellington. We were back on the north island. Wellington is the capital of
New Zealand and is affectionately known as “Windy Welly” because of the
blustery, cold, grey weather (seriously, don’t bother styling your hair here).The
city has a lot to offer with theatres, museums, great shops, gardens, farmer’s
markets and lots and LOTS of food! Cuba Street is the place to go for a meal
and there is also an evening market, with food trucks galore, serving every
type of cuisine imaginable. Thank goodness our pants had an elastic
waistband…yummy!<o:p></o:p></div>
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New Plymouth was one of my favorite cities. Theo preferred
Queenstown, but I liked it here better because there were hardly any tourists
around. I felt like I was able to experience the way city life truly is in New
Zealand. Everyone was extremely friendly and they were, obviously, very proud
of where they live. The beach and mountains are close by and the city has a lot
to offer. New Plymouth has it all and I
loved it.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Our last stop before returning to our boat was the Waitomo
Caves. This place is a huge draw for tourists because of the glow worm boat
tours. Theo and I skipped that and went caving instead. We did not know about
this sport until we began traveling in New Zealand. After being strapped into a harness, we
repelled 330 feet to the bottom of a gorgeous cave. It was early in the morning
and the light was streaming in through the opening. We attached ourselves to a
secured rope and climbed through the cave and up and out the other end. While
exploring we saw some really interesting rock formations and the popular glow
worms too. I would love to go caving again sometime…it was so much fun.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid4BVM5diurbPePzrQYLJBmz6KpdAZECsBXF6Lvc7zs2rs9vZqtyvjkkj7OWkeo5ATUWWvGKfT7mesjwzJs0mB3MFAfoAiBaNUbGQNct6xOT00-Plf47ynqigVegki3S8-ayEACoGt0CBX/s1600/16+April+@+8am+LW+Flyn+(%23)+002+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid4BVM5diurbPePzrQYLJBmz6KpdAZECsBXF6Lvc7zs2rs9vZqtyvjkkj7OWkeo5ATUWWvGKfT7mesjwzJs0mB3MFAfoAiBaNUbGQNct6xOT00-Plf47ynqigVegki3S8-ayEACoGt0CBX/s320/16+April+@+8am+LW+Flyn+(%23)%2B002%2B(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Preparing for our decent</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2cPwi6F-9jvfSShlaNnn_BJ4XzIsUfCgLl-UwpKBNgzhq74zGsb7vGrXtMIAnZpDTj0Fm7Aa5mmYeDtauzcTLEs-mZVcgDigIIWIaQpWQfBR0HO0VdHieCuFmIoIIJRblYJowTlSSXhT3/s1600/16+April+@+8am+LW+Flyn+(%23)+005+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2cPwi6F-9jvfSShlaNnn_BJ4XzIsUfCgLl-UwpKBNgzhq74zGsb7vGrXtMIAnZpDTj0Fm7Aa5mmYeDtauzcTLEs-mZVcgDigIIWIaQpWQfBR0HO0VdHieCuFmIoIIJRblYJowTlSSXhT3/s320/16+April+@+8am+LW+Flyn+(%23)%2B005%2B(Medium).JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Three hundred feet to go!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq146PXSJatjlk0Y3eeQmuKUczSMR4Bm0Q-A9BSYWd_DU-s93iEIRKrmRuc9qYeaE9ZNfe16g2TWvmp3uYH5SnF7j0BtP91QmAp-0uAVizFyrUIhCHJY7CLxXgVkzY9H-vK3Qg6HhpNbLw/s1600/16+April+@+8am+LW+Flyn+(%23)+018+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq146PXSJatjlk0Y3eeQmuKUczSMR4Bm0Q-A9BSYWd_DU-s93iEIRKrmRuc9qYeaE9ZNfe16g2TWvmp3uYH5SnF7j0BtP91QmAp-0uAVizFyrUIhCHJY7CLxXgVkzY9H-vK3Qg6HhpNbLw/s320/16+April+@+8am+LW+Flyn+(%23)%2B018%2B(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Almost to the bottom of the cave.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkU0Qxbpcgm3y_CQbjngLseE4-6JIN-cbg4nvo_zMHm7p8u7mDHr-esg9tL8IU-Y6t70VCLwCeviyzrrpPBDQqVCWxmS2GSIIJDEhH5h0qsuu820pqf6OzvuDVtqHD91fJjidMbWCATX90/s1600/16+April+@+8am+LW+Flyn+(%23)+056+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkU0Qxbpcgm3y_CQbjngLseE4-6JIN-cbg4nvo_zMHm7p8u7mDHr-esg9tL8IU-Y6t70VCLwCeviyzrrpPBDQqVCWxmS2GSIIJDEhH5h0qsuu820pqf6OzvuDVtqHD91fJjidMbWCATX90/s320/16+April+@+8am+LW+Flyn+(%23)%2B056%2B(Medium).JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The early morning sunlight peaking into the cave</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOSmsr1TnJRFjQLNdtnllE4aLDOH0kim0OTD93ibYiK0W5I0Xa-Km9-sOqBg-Tq080PGn_hrTeHV_J0i6dNe0RsiR-XNffTWIMKOFdeQDVG57P2X98cebIcBgoX25LAXFvcnZkuenbA9y-/s1600/16+April+@+8am+LW+Flyn+(%23)+054+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOSmsr1TnJRFjQLNdtnllE4aLDOH0kim0OTD93ibYiK0W5I0Xa-Km9-sOqBg-Tq080PGn_hrTeHV_J0i6dNe0RsiR-XNffTWIMKOFdeQDVG57P2X98cebIcBgoX25LAXFvcnZkuenbA9y-/s320/16+April+@+8am+LW+Flyn+(%23)%2B054%2B(Medium).JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnUOiP0oXrCyR3h4NnCJD1lr2tXON67cEXuSOcofyXHJAxNXWwZhXdX2b6xu-wnHIZgE5ClKB35-x0H75y-owwx350f3lXg0KrCN9Cs3LgcxwKz3OmfsvLhXz_CobEDWlBKSObcRxgp44Z/s1600/16+April+@+8am+LW+Flyn+(%23)+038+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnUOiP0oXrCyR3h4NnCJD1lr2tXON67cEXuSOcofyXHJAxNXWwZhXdX2b6xu-wnHIZgE5ClKB35-x0H75y-owwx350f3lXg0KrCN9Cs3LgcxwKz3OmfsvLhXz_CobEDWlBKSObcRxgp44Z/s320/16+April+@+8am+LW+Flyn+(%23)%2B038%2B(Medium).JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9lOmxENVIke0QG7sQHnqVeOroZn0i2UqS1Zvztow5nNmo_B1F_I4ifRQnvIshc_V6pm7dIo4cILXdVgi2w6ds6sl7F_wVjkpo4k1nra5vk7Lfp8yKy2NCxTPQDssggYf3rLVnr370uyL5/s1600/16+April+@+8am+LW+Flyn+(%23)+070+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9lOmxENVIke0QG7sQHnqVeOroZn0i2UqS1Zvztow5nNmo_B1F_I4ifRQnvIshc_V6pm7dIo4cILXdVgi2w6ds6sl7F_wVjkpo4k1nra5vk7Lfp8yKy2NCxTPQDssggYf3rLVnr370uyL5/s320/16+April+@+8am+LW+Flyn+(%23)%2B070%2B(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Glow worms during the day...gross.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ4Nhg68OGn8Abf167xDc7Vlf79gKw5jX8iPx5qhO78tUJCuI_Zue_fLAt4v1tQYEzqhcDSwowPVsxjvY69xeVzlpT6G6OeipW2ljBzXRhIJ2-oTjYaTShdx8PECifsiIT8WUNdak71FVN/s1600/16+April+@+8am+LW+Flyn+(%23)+072+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ4Nhg68OGn8Abf167xDc7Vlf79gKw5jX8iPx5qhO78tUJCuI_Zue_fLAt4v1tQYEzqhcDSwowPVsxjvY69xeVzlpT6G6OeipW2ljBzXRhIJ2-oTjYaTShdx8PECifsiIT8WUNdak71FVN/s320/16+April+@+8am+LW+Flyn+(%23)%2B072%2B(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Completing a very long climb out of the cave</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig8IXPU0TCqKpG1U_EOoGz60NUhellmnWhofX0KoLhmCLhdlVXVfkkD_ZQF2FBHPVKAojNUzXr7i8eCxKoHMqKkDpwUaNv8jN547ZQqcWa4hs-yFnH_k1XA3bdcvEC1hJ0oT3WIsuU30_b/s1600/DSC_0191+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig8IXPU0TCqKpG1U_EOoGz60NUhellmnWhofX0KoLhmCLhdlVXVfkkD_ZQF2FBHPVKAojNUzXr7i8eCxKoHMqKkDpwUaNv8jN547ZQqcWa4hs-yFnH_k1XA3bdcvEC1hJ0oT3WIsuU30_b/s320/DSC_0191+(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>APRIL 18 – MAY 9, 2015<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b>WHANGAREI MARINA<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>NORTH ISLAND, NEW ZEALAND<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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It felt good to be back on our boat and finally sleep in our
bed. We had been gone for 42 days and that is a long time! Anyway, we unpacked and
(very slowly) began getting the boat ready for our sail to Fiji. Theo and I are
very comfortable in this marina. We have gotten to know Whangarei and have made
friends here. Of course most of the people we have gotten to know are sailors,
and since winter is coming to New Zealand, they are sailing away as well.
Hopefully we will cross paths with some of them again. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVXXnaArCkhkw8avz_oSq8t-3-jHSUdiRcyhXuqqRmQQVAnJY5UhcK5ZtIAEqKyNdAObTodD_JFURAFsqDdPePA93PoU45iymu_oF8mEIUSVhRdaiAusa2Ir06HyBixpcqFjDU-RGV1ZF6/s1600/DSC_0222+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVXXnaArCkhkw8avz_oSq8t-3-jHSUdiRcyhXuqqRmQQVAnJY5UhcK5ZtIAEqKyNdAObTodD_JFURAFsqDdPePA93PoU45iymu_oF8mEIUSVhRdaiAusa2Ir06HyBixpcqFjDU-RGV1ZF6/s320/DSC_0222+(Medium).JPG" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying the International Rally of Whangarei</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT00sYm-VN90enSOBnbZo703dxixhr34wRSvEu6QQfAgg00v8jdvQdXpFEl1-GvqiDIiVcWMQqhlYrsDb8zYQBmzGF1IABKNal-9TrbEIYq2xHYMzaL9RxBnoW6SvnDURfRdQ7aol2g3TQ/s1600/IMG_2912+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT00sYm-VN90enSOBnbZo703dxixhr34wRSvEu6QQfAgg00v8jdvQdXpFEl1-GvqiDIiVcWMQqhlYrsDb8zYQBmzGF1IABKNal-9TrbEIYq2xHYMzaL9RxBnoW6SvnDURfRdQ7aol2g3TQ/s320/IMG_2912+(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A stunning night at the marina</td></tr>
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As I am writing this, Theo is studying the weather reports
intensely. The weather is worsening here and we have been waiting for a good weather
window to begin sailing north. It seems we will be leaving within the next few
days. We are also planning to stop at Minerva reef (a submerged atoll between
here and Fiji). There is amazing sea life and diving
there. Here we go again!</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03471059532461159422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3358276371486559811.post-25718021226763678352015-05-07T20:00:00.002-07:002015-05-07T20:22:09.480-07:00New Zealand - South Island<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>MARCH 15 – APRIL 11, 2015<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b>SOUTH ISLAND NEW ZEALAND</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Theo and I drove our car onto the Inter Islander Ferry for
the three hour trip to the South Island. We were both very ill. Theo had the
same virus as me with fever and sore throat. I was on antibiotics and feeling a
bit better, but Theo wanted to “get over it naturally”, therefore he was not
taking any medication to help himself out. I was exhausted and let it be. We both slept for most of the ferry ride.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>PICTON<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Picton is the gateway to the South Island. During the
summer, there are eight ferries per day bringing people and vehicles over from
the North. I could imagine how busy and fun it would be here if the weather was
warm. The middle of March is autumn in New Zealand, and Picton was quiet. This
is a place that completely transforms during the cooler months. When we arrived in town, we saw outdoor cafes
and people lazing in the sun enjoying drinks, coffee and pastries. We decided
to do as the locals do and took a table…very nice.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There are some lovely
walks here. The obvious ones are the Marlborough Sounds and Queen Charlotte
tracks. If you love to hike, New Zealand is probably one of the best places in
the world to do it, but make sure you research details about the track you are
going to tackle. A five hour tramp here is considered a “short walk” and some
of the more challenging tracks (and the most beautiful) can last days or even
weeks! Theo and I wanted to walk the Tirohanga Track while in Picton. It is a
two-hour loop and has exquisite views, but we needed to rest instead and
hopefully beat this virus that was wreaking havoc on our trip. We drove to a
B&B and slept. We can’t do it all I guess.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>NELSON<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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The drive to Nelson included a VERY winding road up a
mountain. Theo was driving, but eventually he got tired and said that he needed
to close his eyes for a bit. He wanted to pull over and sleep, but I insisted
that I could drive on while he rested. I am not accustomed to having the
steering wheel on the right side of the car or traveling on the left side of
the road. To make the situation more challenging, I was driving up a mountain
on a very squiggly course with crazy Kiwi race car drivers on my tail. I would have
preferred to be at the helm of a sailboat in the middle of the ocean any day! I
was beginning to feel very comfortable behind the wheel, but suddenly Theo woke
up and was saying (very loudly) “Pull over! You are scaring me! I can’t sleep
while you drive! You are going to hit the cliff!” Oh my gosh…I was NOT. I was
truly getting the hang of it, but he wouldn’t take no for an answer and he
never asked me to drive again after that…I think he was being unreasonable and
snotty…whatever.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The Nelson area is a very popular with travelers. There are
gorgeous bays (make sure to see Golden Bay if you are here), lakes, and three
national parks. If you love cycling, this is the place for it because one of
New Zealand’s most popular cycling trails is here. The 69km coastal route from
Nelson to Kaiteriteri can be done in a couple of days and there are plenty of
sights along the way, including yummy stops for food and wine. Theo and I want
to return in November and ride this trail.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The town center of Nelson is charming with brick- lined
streets paved with cobblestone. Certain areas had a European feel, especially
when we would go to one of the many bakeries and coffee bars. Speaking of
coffee, Kiwis are very serious about their java! I think their coffee rivals the coffee in
Italy...it is that good! When I left Los Angeles, I had quit drinking coffee
and was a tea girl, but I fell off the caffeine wagon when I landed at Auckland
airport in February. Before even exiting the terminal, I made a beeline to the
nearest barista for a steaming flat white… I love coffee.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>LESSON:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If Theo gets sleepy while driving, just let him pull over
and take a nap.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>QUOTE:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtUe8xyj1o2Nhne0H9K9xk4NAcmbNxERmE97KpEyCwNwdAzlsgPmb6ATeNKUhPINxVIU3GIdcqWZHjqYRu3onCDQEMPYfIAkYFJFodq0u9mvNMZ9bDyz6DRfr0H_mBo_2rLHZgRgRTHgBb/s1600/20150328_115153+(Medium).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtUe8xyj1o2Nhne0H9K9xk4NAcmbNxERmE97KpEyCwNwdAzlsgPmb6ATeNKUhPINxVIU3GIdcqWZHjqYRu3onCDQEMPYfIAkYFJFodq0u9mvNMZ9bDyz6DRfr0H_mBo_2rLHZgRgRTHgBb/s320/20150328_115153+(Medium).jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<b>KIWI TERMS: </b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Flat White = Café Latte<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Short black = Espresso<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Long black = Double espresso<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Fluffy = Steamed milk with marshmallows<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Pack a wobbly = to become angry, get snotty<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
- Spit the dummy = to act unreasonably<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Dummy = Pacifier<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>MOTUEKA<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Motueka is a small town that sits twenty minutes outside of
Able Tasman National Park. Hiking Abel Tasman was the main activity I was
really, really looking forward to when we first began thinking about our trip
to the South Island. Abel Tasman is a
very long track and many people choose to camp or stay in huts along the way.
We decided to stay at the Holiday Park in Motueka for the evenings, and then
hike various points of the Abel Tasman track over the next three days.
Well…that was the “plan” anyway.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When we arrived at our cabin, Theo was a wreck. He was very
sick and his throat hurt so badly that he could barely swallow. We found a
doctor that could see him in the late afternoon, so we rested during the day
until the appointment. She checked Theo out and gave him a ten day supply of
antibiotics… the same ones that I was taking. My doctor (the comedian) had
given me enough pills for seven days, so she gave me more. This turned out to
be very good decision on her part. We were in no condition to attempt the Abel
Tasman hike, so it would have to wait. I will not mention how sick we were anymore
in this blog. It is boring and, frankly, neither one of us cares to remember it
anyway.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A few days later, we began the first day of our three day
hiking adventure. The track was very raw and peaceful. We walked for three
hours from Marahau to Apple Tree Bay and were feeling pretty good. The second
day we drove to Kaiteriteri to board the 9 o’clock sea shuttle to Awaroa Bay to
do the next section of the track. From there we walked to the Awaroa Lodge for
a quick lunch and coffee before starting the hike. We walked three hours to
Medlands Beach. The sea shuttle was there, waiting to take us back to our car
in Kaiteriteri. The next morning was day three of our hike. We took the sea
shuttle again…this time to Medlands Beach. The track from Medlands Beach to
Anchorage Bay is the loveliest stretch of coastline on the Abel Tasman track.
If you visit here and only have one day to hike, this would be the part I
recommend doing. I simply do not have
words for how beautiful this experience has been. Just do it!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The following morning we checked out of our cabin in Motueka.
We had intended to spend three nights there, but in the end we stayed about one
week. Since we did not have a set schedule or hotel bookings for the South
Island, we did not feel pressured to rush anywhere…thank goodness. We had
accomplished our goal, which was to hike Abel Tasman and we were happy.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2OwAHARRQZyGnbkT1i9Ul_nUKyJuBTpEPB2GDz3ZIOsE8MECp1-MOaBHoLVOZ-iEapBLzyGv2kFZ9itRIWRA2TzXLPEWrRTmTpAzNAynzIn9GWFQr_qIqjBUz5BkZbbgIM24EkgNbIHmh/s1600/P1000622+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2OwAHARRQZyGnbkT1i9Ul_nUKyJuBTpEPB2GDz3ZIOsE8MECp1-MOaBHoLVOZ-iEapBLzyGv2kFZ9itRIWRA2TzXLPEWrRTmTpAzNAynzIn9GWFQr_qIqjBUz5BkZbbgIM24EkgNbIHmh/s320/P1000622+(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Split apple rock</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz7fNzOjtKM6pg54ZZ92MIB_XwrdhdnpbGw14b2kYwN-zDDgL2XS2RxDXyN5_WV4wXJypNyhhS8xDqZIy9ZFyYkTu6b_jZO-_68SwiGgrjMwMR9GRMxzygrIbOpq7DXbjRyfweaGiINoC7/s1600/P1000682+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz7fNzOjtKM6pg54ZZ92MIB_XwrdhdnpbGw14b2kYwN-zDDgL2XS2RxDXyN5_WV4wXJypNyhhS8xDqZIy9ZFyYkTu6b_jZO-_68SwiGgrjMwMR9GRMxzygrIbOpq7DXbjRyfweaGiINoC7/s320/P1000682+(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our view during the hike towards Anchorage Bay on the Abel Tasman track...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtWQ89d3Rb034fM7XQXaveVp_OJ29l3Eq9yQ3YYBA8XkYKIaBkrhDqRMtPQg4Sanin0HZwlm0416FuVBxO3VR3DkukLJYQNsk5aupyvFMcWYlpl36CUhnPL1ffvEk7xQvrNNNhSBfqqSHE/s1600/P1000672+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtWQ89d3Rb034fM7XQXaveVp_OJ29l3Eq9yQ3YYBA8XkYKIaBkrhDqRMtPQg4Sanin0HZwlm0416FuVBxO3VR3DkukLJYQNsk5aupyvFMcWYlpl36CUhnPL1ffvEk7xQvrNNNhSBfqqSHE/s320/P1000672+(Medium).JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSKTEVoZFSvZv9OihIW7X0eJvzzHiXMwTbqIo_HPLo-8sjjjjycVsTPP_ZjM3cqw9Wa77r9XiK6qWuBXdnFDN3TggIWBTBEcQTruRXqVVEtO5ZRJD8DVYj57ehNgi9fJhtKDDWj7ogN08B/s1600/P1000703+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSKTEVoZFSvZv9OihIW7X0eJvzzHiXMwTbqIo_HPLo-8sjjjjycVsTPP_ZjM3cqw9Wa77r9XiK6qWuBXdnFDN3TggIWBTBEcQTruRXqVVEtO5ZRJD8DVYj57ehNgi9fJhtKDDWj7ogN08B/s320/P1000703+(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>LESSON:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Make sure you have the correct size and type of shoes for
hiking…my toenails became black and blue because my shoes were too small… I
cannot believe I did that.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>KIWI TERMS:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Holiday Park = A place that has spaces for camper vans to
park and stay the night… they are very convenient for families with small
children. A community kitchen, showers
and toilet are included in the price and they also have a few free standing
cabins that can be booked as well.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Anklebiter = a small
child, toddler<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Road snail = A camper van traveling on the road<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Loopy = A tourist driving around the south island in a
circular direction.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tiki Tour = To go on a journey with no destination in mind
(for example:” Let’s take a tiki tour around the south island.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>PUNAKAIKI<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We arrived in
Punakaiki late in the afternoon and we were tired of being on the road. We
wanted to see the Pancake Rocks in the morning, so I opened my Lonley Planet
book to find a place to spend the night. The retreat I had chosen turned out to
be more of a backpacker hostel, but they gave us an adorable little cabin in
the middle of the forest. I really liked it, but Theo was not thrilled. He kept
mentioning the I-sites throughout New Zealand and what a wonderful job Jackie
had done organizing our North Island accommodations. Anyway, aside from the
mosquitos, the cold and being a bit isolated, it was quaint. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Punakaiki is VERY small and we found one tavern open for
dinner. That is it…one tavern! Theo and I were very grateful for it because we
were tired and hungry. Once inside we realized it was extremely busy. I think the
entire town was there… Go tavern people!
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Theo did not sleep well in our little cabin in the forest, so
we woke up late. I heard him moving about and I pretended to be asleep (like I
do every morning) until he started making coffee. We heard a noise near our
window and saw a large brown bird there. She kept walking past and rubbing
against the door. Obviously, she was asking for some breakfast. Once we got a
better look, we realized that she was a Weka. They are flightless birds that
are found exclusively in this part of the south island.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We checked out of our cute cabin and drove to a famous
tourist stop called Pancake Rocks. We walked for 15 minutes on a beautifully
maintained trail. The limestone here is formed into what looks like huge stacks
of thick pancakes. There are also some impressive blowholes, and since it was
high tide, the Tasman Sea was putting on a powerful show.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8XvggVV7Whyphenhyphen5MPU4Q-eBZkXTywU6sND_WhMjskhmFJbIwu3Ol5YYo6bBg8_1-mioT26QRhANe9ZX8I8bWQgZeQg8HhwqdiGfhVYKI8I7169N4P2x0yWU4lS6yVz5gamMT0ywiZ6dwake2/s1600/P1000727+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8XvggVV7Whyphenhyphen5MPU4Q-eBZkXTywU6sND_WhMjskhmFJbIwu3Ol5YYo6bBg8_1-mioT26QRhANe9ZX8I8bWQgZeQg8HhwqdiGfhVYKI8I7169N4P2x0yWU4lS6yVz5gamMT0ywiZ6dwake2/s320/P1000727+(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The friendly Weka outside our cabin door</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggWJ7sluqtUzdPeBwTP2drxoI6xsx4inuyTPSmmbtC2M1GCjmkV8aTzCegU5opCB-aUZPZXwUl2yuejkkAbmbYmE-g_lxdP9u5BxxcYvLIbvb1QcZvhlFQNIGnL1pmmIPRARYtLaaEbHzN/s1600/P1000734+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggWJ7sluqtUzdPeBwTP2drxoI6xsx4inuyTPSmmbtC2M1GCjmkV8aTzCegU5opCB-aUZPZXwUl2yuejkkAbmbYmE-g_lxdP9u5BxxcYvLIbvb1QcZvhlFQNIGnL1pmmIPRARYtLaaEbHzN/s320/P1000734+(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pancake Rocks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWEwr9680B887wmwC_hgHmIx85nOTs809lLKNx8sbkoP1o5LcuPk9hMo8fG5Fip1mJV_P_e14UJh9WZvAYqdBSCKnKCYBUxr6VaYZStTsM_H91pXXuqyrkhzsemX7U1sn89ldvuF1zCe-V/s1600/20150323_110211+(Medium).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWEwr9680B887wmwC_hgHmIx85nOTs809lLKNx8sbkoP1o5LcuPk9hMo8fG5Fip1mJV_P_e14UJh9WZvAYqdBSCKnKCYBUxr6VaYZStTsM_H91pXXuqyrkhzsemX7U1sn89ldvuF1zCe-V/s320/20150323_110211+(Medium).jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The crazy Tasman Sea</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGT_GdZYCRQbT275AISciQ_zecb681LhbQ_Ge1vOh5fA6J208X70qTDeLh3W-Y_IZ9wdwFa8RSdkIwfkQN03SezaLy1SE2V84m-p0nJ3AEwMfBLV_soDbC_YFAYBOWMBeov1hatUHaeAGa/s1600/20150323_111723+(Medium).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGT_GdZYCRQbT275AISciQ_zecb681LhbQ_Ge1vOh5fA6J208X70qTDeLh3W-Y_IZ9wdwFa8RSdkIwfkQN03SezaLy1SE2V84m-p0nJ3AEwMfBLV_soDbC_YFAYBOWMBeov1hatUHaeAGa/s320/20150323_111723+(Medium).jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>LESSONS:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-The weathering process that causes the limestone to layer
like pancakes is called stylobedding.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Do not feed the wildlife…they will become dependent on the
treats.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>KIWI TERMS:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bush = forest<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Going bush = getting away from it all <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>FRANZ JOSEPH<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We came to Franz Joseph to see the glacier. It
is a leisurely two hour walk to reach there and it only gets steep for a little
while at the very end. It was very busy with tourists for this time of the
year. If you visit here and go to the
glacier, I recommend starting your walk very early in the morning… before the
helicopter tours begin. The hike is so pretty and relaxing, but there are MANY
helicopters constantly buzzing overhead. The noise makes the experience less
enjoyable.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX6PNOFfWqGHHXWphRKsKicJ12BqOdUHQwQkOdoC8h8jOWSjCfe3yLY-5qe5hiYip6U_f80oBfQPxjgJOlVKIH06a7OtBCls_UWG_BG6003IEoolGtsPA9J9cRF6qMMtzWp0RLLt3ysC5T/s1600/20150324_123201+(Medium).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX6PNOFfWqGHHXWphRKsKicJ12BqOdUHQwQkOdoC8h8jOWSjCfe3yLY-5qe5hiYip6U_f80oBfQPxjgJOlVKIH06a7OtBCls_UWG_BG6003IEoolGtsPA9J9cRF6qMMtzWp0RLLt3ysC5T/s320/20150324_123201+(Medium).jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Images at the Franz Josef Glacier</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj724IV0E7MFJyF7-7rcJmmXfeiBVXufGtU1P6-PlCJyjDsDZZxSqTeP75vJ49PNjjyxB4E6Axq97XzlzcbR8UHHhQHPkD4M7si5GpuNpRbVekhvrBwsqKRU3r5HYPu8pc2UvcNOcQ-t3Vh/s1600/20150324_113520+(Medium).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj724IV0E7MFJyF7-7rcJmmXfeiBVXufGtU1P6-PlCJyjDsDZZxSqTeP75vJ49PNjjyxB4E6Axq97XzlzcbR8UHHhQHPkD4M7si5GpuNpRbVekhvrBwsqKRU3r5HYPu8pc2UvcNOcQ-t3Vh/s320/20150324_113520+(Medium).jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7js00qsXFC8L_YLdU7k67S1tsR4t19gQA806inKiEjMmlKRMP3YoffdBp6SHp36I_B9Nt6lGHHeivMpcnCt_DrYQJ38Nu4ASSexonUtkpXrKcugnZBru5daS1x4oGfvSABxMF9W7Ifg4P/s1600/20150324_122411+(Medium).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7js00qsXFC8L_YLdU7k67S1tsR4t19gQA806inKiEjMmlKRMP3YoffdBp6SHp36I_B9Nt6lGHHeivMpcnCt_DrYQJ38Nu4ASSexonUtkpXrKcugnZBru5daS1x4oGfvSABxMF9W7Ifg4P/s320/20150324_122411+(Medium).jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We also visited the Wildlife Center while in Franz Joseph.
We were lucky enough to see three kiwi chicks. They were asleep, but we didn’t
care. The kiwi are very interesting to me because they have so many weird
characteristics. They are more like a mammal than a bird. They are flightless,
nocturnal and do not have good eyesight. When we watched the adults in the Wildlife
Center, they repeatedly walked back and forth digging in the dirt for food with
their long beaks…very single-minded. They have an amazing sense of smell and their
nostrils are on the tip of their beak. There used to be millions of kiwi in New
Zealand, but now the population is down to 70,000 and here is why…<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKC2Nux-xzhOg88_zoFcrfZShbeD1HKujeBcCLvHnWKVc8B3olD3ku8dpWl5XmdojwjPPMop7nn_x-cSmJ1eYNVCewBjvW3Ic3N8rEvzexmOSp_BxfRBx27LrP24jMsX_XtMcjTDosq5_V/s1600/20150324_150445+(Medium).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKC2Nux-xzhOg88_zoFcrfZShbeD1HKujeBcCLvHnWKVc8B3olD3ku8dpWl5XmdojwjPPMop7nn_x-cSmJ1eYNVCewBjvW3Ic3N8rEvzexmOSp_BxfRBx27LrP24jMsX_XtMcjTDosq5_V/s320/20150324_150445+(Medium).jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A three week old kiwi chick</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In the 1830’s, rabbits were introduced to New Zealand for
sport, food and fur trading. The rabbits bred very quickly (as rabbits do) and
they plagued the country by destroying the vegetation. So what did man do? He
introduced stoats to New Zealand to control the rabbit population. The problem
is that stoats do not prey solely on rabbits…they will kill anything they can
eat. Stoats look like ferrets, but are
smaller. They are a voracious predator to many of the native animals in New Zealand,
especially birds. The stoat population is out of control because they breed
very, very quickly. When a female stoat is born, she is impregnated before she
even leaves the nest! The introduction of stoats is commonly referred to as one
of the worst mistakes ever made in New Zealand.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Possum fur was very
valuable for trading back in the day, so they were introduced to New Zealand as
well. Like the stoat, the population is now out of control and they are a huge
problem. If you visit New Zealand and have
a car, the locals will encourage you to swerve to run over a possum on the road.
We saw many possum pancakes during our tour of the islands. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Because of these predators a kiwi chick has a 5% chance of
survival in the wild. That is why the Wildlife Centers are so important. They
recover the kiwi eggs from the nest, and after they hatch, they raise the chick
until it weighs one kilogram. Then they re-release it into the wild. At this
size, they have a fighting chance when attacked. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To watch a stoat in action, click here: <a href="https://www.google.co.nz/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CB4QtwIwAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DODEUK5sB5vE&ei=SBlMVdnAMsHYmAXnu4HQBg&usg=AFQjCNFCeLGGv5PWzbA9WNBTyiGOmzONgQ&sig2=H9JAy9HCp5QrSHbPwlU61w&bvm=bv.92765956,d.dGY" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Stoat hypnotizing rabbit video</a> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>LESSON: <o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
New Zealanders are NOT called Kiwis after the kiwi bird. New
Zealand (to this day) has a famous brand of shoe polish named Kiwi that the
soldiers in Australia used during WWII. The first use for the term “Kiwi” was
in 1917, and it referred to Australian servicemen who had “kiwied up”. In other
words, they had highly polished boots because they used the New Zealand Kiwi
brand shoe polish! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>QUOTE:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“A good stoat is a dead stoat” – New Zealanders<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>KIWI TERMS:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Possum pancake = a possum that has been squished flat into
the road by a car.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Suck the kumura = to die, kick the bucket<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Kumura = New Zealand sweet potatoe<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>QUEENSTOWN<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Theo and I loved Queenstown and quickly decided that it was
our favorite place along our tour so far. There was a good vibe there. Many
shops, restaurants and talented street musicians surrounded a stunning lake and
everything kept going late into the evenings. This is not a sleepy place and we
were in the mood for that kind of atmosphere!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Queenstown is famous for quite a few things and one of them
is a hamburger joint called Fergburger.
There is a long line wrapped around this place almost all of the
time…even into the very early hours of the morning. We couldn’t understand what
the big deal was about, but we felt a bit obligated to try a burger while we
were in town! A local told us not to stand in the long queue at Fergburger. He suggested that we call and order our food
in advance, pick it up for take away, and then eat it by the lake…a very simple
and logical idea. Of course we didn’t do it and while we were eating, many of
the tourists in line were pointing at our burgers and watching us eat….it was
awkward.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsZPgH4NV_CRkT1mWTRGcC8lOIh0tCnirVuRYNkorEYmBKZrC0J45YE0ggwbzm1rdOPscGUe2i66zDJByAh1RyWvNNLmFQ14eK2jOLC8iVSvi4mpyiGY6zegqGXf4fnKBKEXgnFhpElVul/s1600/20150326_115151+(Medium).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsZPgH4NV_CRkT1mWTRGcC8lOIh0tCnirVuRYNkorEYmBKZrC0J45YE0ggwbzm1rdOPscGUe2i66zDJByAh1RyWvNNLmFQ14eK2jOLC8iVSvi4mpyiGY6zegqGXf4fnKBKEXgnFhpElVul/s320/20150326_115151+(Medium).jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The famous Fergburger</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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We spent our days walking around town, eating great food,
enjoying the lovely gardens and lake views. Queenstown has so much to do and we
were never bored. Theo has always enjoyed high adrenaline sports, but I am not
a fan. I don’t like the sensation of falling or the prospect of seriously
injuring myself, but I have always been curious about paragliding. It looks so
peaceful from the ground. We decided to
do it and we are so happy that we did. It was incredibly relaxing… just as I
had imagined. I felt like a bird soaring above Queenstown…try it!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXJje1LntEP05dy2xi6OaBHe2PVjBY39-uoTG_v7dZKNxOPMWxe-yxfS4sM1_saYy8U7nJhnyycs8b5FWkjG5RObNxQmF2XmyAcBFgM_Hd6dTA3R-m_ujuS7CRuVV4Sgupp_4wv8VF-ImV/s1600/P1000774+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXJje1LntEP05dy2xi6OaBHe2PVjBY39-uoTG_v7dZKNxOPMWxe-yxfS4sM1_saYy8U7nJhnyycs8b5FWkjG5RObNxQmF2XmyAcBFgM_Hd6dTA3R-m_ujuS7CRuVV4Sgupp_4wv8VF-ImV/s320/P1000774+(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful Queenstown...getting ready for paragliding</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI9n5ZtQQHNEWmyBha19UsSKxmj05wogjVz9TV1yHXTMFtRCFMe_Jp3W3jsBn0J6GaoODWtFE5orNPyyVBNRH6jQ8bWlwWV9ux9EPucD_HOZXn78FXCaYPaCFuYYGpxGmguX9nJ8FQoa3s/s1600/20150326_153128+(Medium).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI9n5ZtQQHNEWmyBha19UsSKxmj05wogjVz9TV1yHXTMFtRCFMe_Jp3W3jsBn0J6GaoODWtFE5orNPyyVBNRH6jQ8bWlwWV9ux9EPucD_HOZXn78FXCaYPaCFuYYGpxGmguX9nJ8FQoa3s/s320/20150326_153128+(Medium).jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuNzbkVd4C2j-PcX0y3c3eUeVmwf9SgL2RnnvtxdQIluMK_bnpYAifPW5ESycXnTwT9uSIi1kVNbhyphenhyphenUCGmkgJqgrIhI9O0XqW67w4sG5BcK13VlTLfZN7Kyjd53igIDRkdletWvWKKO9y-/s1600/G0013472+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuNzbkVd4C2j-PcX0y3c3eUeVmwf9SgL2RnnvtxdQIluMK_bnpYAifPW5ESycXnTwT9uSIi1kVNbhyphenhyphenUCGmkgJqgrIhI9O0XqW67w4sG5BcK13VlTLfZN7Kyjd53igIDRkdletWvWKKO9y-/s320/G0013472+(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrXKjmvZRlpYW213VwAmU_Qv3iFn5jr4UCNtWlfZ1q-bWnhw4PTlmyy3eLBa6ZQUVSj8BHB93z4TZHJ5pnAlQwDHy025VRQFfADt4jtjnfkQU2WkLejfwOqYLyMgEXe9lOX5KVSZkCKiYG/s1600/GOPR1119+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrXKjmvZRlpYW213VwAmU_Qv3iFn5jr4UCNtWlfZ1q-bWnhw4PTlmyy3eLBa6ZQUVSj8BHB93z4TZHJ5pnAlQwDHy025VRQFfADt4jtjnfkQU2WkLejfwOqYLyMgEXe9lOX5KVSZkCKiYG/s320/GOPR1119+(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0QiD4rlqaAm0FwWeRE8c8SgrxTSUus5ec4Hq-XMQuyWZ0KXs6g6_MZysLJxgR4kXdPUM88LHccCCxGTFPBPm-SaC0XyfGcS3t2XouUnyXAlb2GRTjlrrwWCaHIb9vZpQysJtwLJ-Ssf9d/s1600/GOPR1139+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0QiD4rlqaAm0FwWeRE8c8SgrxTSUus5ec4Hq-XMQuyWZ0KXs6g6_MZysLJxgR4kXdPUM88LHccCCxGTFPBPm-SaC0XyfGcS3t2XouUnyXAlb2GRTjlrrwWCaHIb9vZpQysJtwLJ-Ssf9d/s320/GOPR1139+(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We did it...Phew!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<b>LESSON:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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-Do not stand in the queue at Fergburger<o:p></o:p></div>
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-Eat your Fergburger after paragliding, not before.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>KIWI TERMS:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Queue = Line<o:p></o:p></div>
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Scoff = Eat<o:p></o:p></div>
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Skull = Drink fast (usually beer)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Biscuits = Cookies<o:p></o:p></div>
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Pudding = Dessert<o:p></o:p></div>
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Lolly = Candy<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>TE ANAU<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Te Anau is the gateway to the Fiorland National Park and it
is also the polar opposite of Queenstown. When we drove into town, we found a
peaceful little village surrounded by a large lake and rugged mountains. We
kept up our routine of hiking, eating and sleeping by walking part of the
Kepler track. This track is very wild and a pleasant place to tramp. The ground
was soft, like walking on a carpet, due to layers upon layers of dirt, mud and
leaves. We continued on to the Moturau Hut and then returned back the same way
we came. .. three hours total. We were physically tired… Te Anau ended up being
a great place to relax for a few days.<o:p></o:p></div>
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If you visit here, we recommend the Redcliff Café for a
meal. It was the best in New Zealand and I wrote a stellar review on Trip
Advisor before we even left the table!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTrVeIqziFAg_LbmkFJjQY10octJL5_53W8yecLgLOBF66kmBk6HMKGQLgPzeNolEc5WvjjuV4qXpPKwB1otqbBq5DrI2WR_xUAg_NdBeszYzdTweJBR2GI9_PcU8-nT4KFHXvVl8sAG-7/s1600/20150328_160446+(Medium).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTrVeIqziFAg_LbmkFJjQY10octJL5_53W8yecLgLOBF66kmBk6HMKGQLgPzeNolEc5WvjjuV4qXpPKwB1otqbBq5DrI2WR_xUAg_NdBeszYzdTweJBR2GI9_PcU8-nT4KFHXvVl8sAG-7/s320/20150328_160446+(Medium).jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Kepler Track</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b>DOUBTFUL SOUND<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Fiodrland is the home of Milford and Doubtful Sound.
Doubtful Sound is three times larger and ten times the area of Milford Sound. It
is also not as easily accessible, therefore, much more peaceful and remote. With that in mind, we decided to skip Milford this
time around and go straight to Doubtful for an overnight cruise on the Fiodrland
Navigator.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH3SOU_Fbvn7T1gK_ABnmHwuBLLXf9n_G1nWd1mI1nEN2LwR_aT5YCD8lRHcjF9ssYnpbnqO7Z98H8DppIXpR5_FertSwbTJtHVGaxKpil_INzh82IF7XbEM6_vHXZLZSdenvGx_ELoxlv/s1600/P1000795+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH3SOU_Fbvn7T1gK_ABnmHwuBLLXf9n_G1nWd1mI1nEN2LwR_aT5YCD8lRHcjF9ssYnpbnqO7Z98H8DppIXpR5_FertSwbTJtHVGaxKpil_INzh82IF7XbEM6_vHXZLZSdenvGx_ELoxlv/s320/P1000795+(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our accommodation for one night in Doubtful Sound...we will never forget it.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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We took an hour boat
ride to an awaiting bus that would drive us a further 45 minutes to our ship.
While we were standing around to board the bus, we were swarmed by sandflies.
These tenacious, hungry little shitheads seem to reside in the most beautiful
areas of southern New Zealand, especially Fiordland. If you remain stationary
for just two seconds they descend on you. My body was fully covered; I had a
scarf on my face, a hat and sunglasses on. I covered myself the best I could
from head to toe, but they still got me… even on my eye. I looked like Quasimodo for two weeks. Their
bites are very painful, last a long time and I have yet to find a repellent
that works. I don’t like to complain, but I really hate them. Theo and I squished as many as we could
against the inside of the bus window during our ride. They made quite a mess. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Our time on the Fiordland Navigator in Doubtful Sound was
another major highlight of our tour. We saw crazy, beautiful wilderness with
jagged cliffs and mountains that spewed waterfalls. We even saw Fiordland
Crested Penguins, which were rare for that time of the year. My favorite experience took place early in the
morning. The ship stopped in a truly magical location, and as we were floating
there, the engines, generators and lights were turned off. Those few moments we
heard just the sounds of nature at work. The scenery was surreal…misty and
mysterious. The memory will always feel like a dream to me and I am so grateful
to have been a part of it….sandflies and all.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdAV8hLc6v1kEwNBY2vAzLYIlwsuPRmncD5diPS11OQqcZCKQnNoMW-Jkn76o3Eowj43OkomHpHUWeW8RIxzsmo5xaNKZW2ObpFURYSaQBjFc4qtdOfeieY6HNDxrWlW2vHQnEoROqoxPO/s1600/DSC_0101+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdAV8hLc6v1kEwNBY2vAzLYIlwsuPRmncD5diPS11OQqcZCKQnNoMW-Jkn76o3Eowj43OkomHpHUWeW8RIxzsmo5xaNKZW2ObpFURYSaQBjFc4qtdOfeieY6HNDxrWlW2vHQnEoROqoxPO/s320/DSC_0101+(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Images of Doubtful Sound</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWjQwJE8NlsIahD-HD72xsoDo9ySs8WJZkOTqoi99CcTDbUxlVQpHI4Xpilyavgu_S1c3t_mLHq4fKdxr-cz2gnWJXKey0qI3E4a-8DgsoRF1j6PMrMSO_i21xMGd73PMGLkhkQZhpJb1k/s1600/16+April+@+8am+LW+Flyn+(%23)+025+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWjQwJE8NlsIahD-HD72xsoDo9ySs8WJZkOTqoi99CcTDbUxlVQpHI4Xpilyavgu_S1c3t_mLHq4fKdxr-cz2gnWJXKey0qI3E4a-8DgsoRF1j6PMrMSO_i21xMGd73PMGLkhkQZhpJb1k/s320/16+April+@+8am+LW+Flyn+(%23)%2B025%2B(Medium).JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYe_V8VxNagGTXML0tGxlbmCF04NtOL32Jac7bahoy3gRIsl-kdGncv1Kp4Mvz3UrijbDaxQukVc0dD1LOMJNgXVvJWx2H7ZRHCmnkSIIB9iDcvbgxDfbL-bFLyA0qVhdzW5FWWQzZiHC4/s1600/P1000791+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYe_V8VxNagGTXML0tGxlbmCF04NtOL32Jac7bahoy3gRIsl-kdGncv1Kp4Mvz3UrijbDaxQukVc0dD1LOMJNgXVvJWx2H7ZRHCmnkSIIB9iDcvbgxDfbL-bFLyA0qVhdzW5FWWQzZiHC4/s320/P1000791+(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After the rain</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiDBXWojygc7DMTy_kdJ91TJ-CcC2vycyDW4FDD-JQ_eMlYE5V-Cx_2hYE6NW-7-kvYC63JeNTjmMVwLjoSdfp5GYOQHLu30rGDDePl9F6yFEteugBRvqkATlKlgPBHPCLXJ9jWPEHoOsV/s1600/P1000827+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiDBXWojygc7DMTy_kdJ91TJ-CcC2vycyDW4FDD-JQ_eMlYE5V-Cx_2hYE6NW-7-kvYC63JeNTjmMVwLjoSdfp5GYOQHLu30rGDDePl9F6yFEteugBRvqkATlKlgPBHPCLXJ9jWPEHoOsV/s320/P1000827+(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Misty and mysterious</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlgem5cEWnvlt1I51k1DuDPAPmF64O0xV02KXgkAmoQHm7cpK89Us37lDp8RjuazVXfQCLuNDQs5a2brqeb9yIBW2pQx2H83aJ_lPHp_po6lAPUATQBI4RmdwX6Unx5Y5S02HrxKjQOcxg/s1600/P1000829+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlgem5cEWnvlt1I51k1DuDPAPmF64O0xV02KXgkAmoQHm7cpK89Us37lDp8RjuazVXfQCLuNDQs5a2brqeb9yIBW2pQx2H83aJ_lPHp_po6lAPUATQBI4RmdwX6Unx5Y5S02HrxKjQOcxg/s320/P1000829+(Medium).JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Only the sounds of nature at work.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b>LESSONS:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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- A fiord is a narrow, deep inlet of sea (in this case the
Tasman Sea) with steep cliffs gouged out by a glacier. From above, the inlets
look like long, crooked fingers.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Doubtful Sound was named Doubtful Harbor in 1770 by Captain
Cook. He did not enter the inlet, because he was uncertain (doubtful) whether
it was navigable under sail.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>KIWI TERM:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Whinge = Complain<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>STEWART AND ULVA ISLANDS<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We drove to Bluff
(famous for its oysters) and from there took a very bouncy one hour ferry ride
to Stewart Island. This is what is called “the end of the road”. We could not
travel any further south than this! The weather was blistery and cold when we
arrived, but we just bundled up and got on with it. Our hotel room was very
cozy, and when we stepped out onto the balcony, we were immediately visited by
some curious Kakas (parrots). These islands are free of predators; therefore they
have the largest bird population of the entire country.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9xgjnOEVlHNTvZachrW08tTsD3sAHMTSvmVJrU36k4KJX4xIwHYtBjIxYpnK5sa08x9ryrbMmfKeLqAcHb-OUglPb8ckvzM0Yl8j6DuqNlb17qCiCxXq6I1C9UxlCRpP0AN4jhoXvtVds/s1600/20150331_184051+(Medium).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9xgjnOEVlHNTvZachrW08tTsD3sAHMTSvmVJrU36k4KJX4xIwHYtBjIxYpnK5sa08x9ryrbMmfKeLqAcHb-OUglPb8ckvzM0Yl8j6DuqNlb17qCiCxXq6I1C9UxlCRpP0AN4jhoXvtVds/s320/20150331_184051+(Medium).jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo has to touch everything!</td></tr>
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Ulva Island is a bird
sanctuary, so we dusted off our binoculars and took a short water taxi ride
over. Theo and I had decided to take a four hour organized tour and we are glad
we did. It would have been very
difficult to spot the flying critters without an experienced set of eyes and
ears. Aside from the elusive kiwi, our guide helped us hear and see every bird
that exists in the country! Ulva Island
was very, very fun and a reminder of what New Zealand used to be like.<o:p></o:p></div>
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That same evening, we had intended to go exploring and see
if we could spot the nocturnal kiwi bird. Unfortunately, the winds blew up to
40 knots by supper time, so… no wild kiwi sightings for us. Maybe there will be
a next time!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCrZNOlfB9qej5Yg7n7qNEnwoPDmqY2HEt3dIWHu7FB7Z8WWVEPhAMnPzT17bncm87AF-fRe0sCUDYeTfbDmDhBJQ-d9VEi4gjLCQtEzx4ydRXejWRdO-JAAC7eb9XRMnwkmtbfFAwfAsg/s1600/P1000832+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCrZNOlfB9qej5Yg7n7qNEnwoPDmqY2HEt3dIWHu7FB7Z8WWVEPhAMnPzT17bncm87AF-fRe0sCUDYeTfbDmDhBJQ-d9VEi4gjLCQtEzx4ydRXejWRdO-JAAC7eb9XRMnwkmtbfFAwfAsg/s320/P1000832+(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A camouflaged Kakariki</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My favorite bird....the animated Fantail</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunrise on Stewart Island</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-y9CMRGN_O-Agfl4cbZhm-HWbrZFFfTVh1wuVmnvfOS3CEWDqxLIh3mWbVroj3yWFFMuS2siBcyg9TJNxRSeQ46lMaf6fAnGXhw5suym6stCC8aGxYO7MHEg7zC1NtLDiX1G6EJbOM8iI/s1600/20150401_081551+(Medium).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-y9CMRGN_O-Agfl4cbZhm-HWbrZFFfTVh1wuVmnvfOS3CEWDqxLIh3mWbVroj3yWFFMuS2siBcyg9TJNxRSeQ46lMaf6fAnGXhw5suym6stCC8aGxYO7MHEg7zC1NtLDiX1G6EJbOM8iI/s320/20150401_081551+(Medium).jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A sleepy Theo, just after sunrise, waiting for the ferry from Stewart Island to Bluff.</td></tr>
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<b>DUNEDIN, LAKE TEKAPO, AKAROA and KAIKOURA (SOUTH ISLAND)<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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These are the rest of towns and cities that Theo and I
visited on our Tiki Tour of the south island. New Zealand is very diverse and we
have special memories of everywhere we went. Here are the highlights.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>DUNEDIN</b> - Famous for its peninsula, Albatross colonies and
penguins. There is a stellar Farmer’s Market on Saturday mornings by the Old
Railway Station.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjttyOxPYlqZ66dpRx4-EkNhjBMxMsgJqEbX1lFfrFFgiwOrTztK3j_y5UxQItwGV3xkuM16m77adIA1RmD1mvwDgg8lnIxkREQCadB8gsqPoU9PMdS6X034TEF4LmKrJnqA-pPKHaop-bh/s1600/P1000898+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjttyOxPYlqZ66dpRx4-EkNhjBMxMsgJqEbX1lFfrFFgiwOrTztK3j_y5UxQItwGV3xkuM16m77adIA1RmD1mvwDgg8lnIxkREQCadB8gsqPoU9PMdS6X034TEF4LmKrJnqA-pPKHaop-bh/s320/P1000898+(Medium).JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The rare yellow-eyed penguin...this is a young one</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2SCX13pw5dSe8wtJFbUNiZO62HdeSdatfQ2oZ5mxmDmSgBPX0KTaLfP3qxw6XIQu8yUZBb58oLB0PQTGOIJ_xUIkP-3mIRMK2L0-JHNTbEGg1s2nrcd6z5m7Z4vAy9spZTej8oX9f2b0a/s1600/P1000920+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2SCX13pw5dSe8wtJFbUNiZO62HdeSdatfQ2oZ5mxmDmSgBPX0KTaLfP3qxw6XIQu8yUZBb58oLB0PQTGOIJ_xUIkP-3mIRMK2L0-JHNTbEGg1s2nrcd6z5m7Z4vAy9spZTej8oX9f2b0a/s320/P1000920+(Medium).JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An adult yellow-eyed penguin</td></tr>
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<b>LAKE TEKAPO</b> – The water of Lake Tekapo is turquoise. We
walked to the summit of St John which has impressive views of the lake and mountains.
On Easter Sunday we visited the Church of the Good Shepherd.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5sRwsbCzmK7YDMKvuiG9DD_eUnW3DtqVbVguwJ0p6f__F-AUbsuAmk94xFzhI9jqDRLQ-ByrKrk56i6NsR3zzHraOaXYrtbVL0D7PVdXci5tWjgUtg0APaB5EUGVULzV9-5OHrd8-Li1S/s1600/DSC_0039+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5sRwsbCzmK7YDMKvuiG9DD_eUnW3DtqVbVguwJ0p6f__F-AUbsuAmk94xFzhI9jqDRLQ-ByrKrk56i6NsR3zzHraOaXYrtbVL0D7PVdXci5tWjgUtg0APaB5EUGVULzV9-5OHrd8-Li1S/s320/DSC_0039+(Medium).JPG" width="264" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Easter Sunday at the Church of the Good Shepherd</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrBUvCLwB02kqXTO3BKE37Eb-4cLX_eMHYacOQVQvOCYywDf9LZGuMILBJ3oOcGQrkXJYPUPEsFHBxWYSFdu4_GoiLdplr5gagfIfh-IwuYkiuBS9no7w3Zs6dAZzP3GgHfOHcVVBjeHP1/s1600/P1000928+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="72" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrBUvCLwB02kqXTO3BKE37Eb-4cLX_eMHYacOQVQvOCYywDf9LZGuMILBJ3oOcGQrkXJYPUPEsFHBxWYSFdu4_GoiLdplr5gagfIfh-IwuYkiuBS9no7w3Zs6dAZzP3GgHfOHcVVBjeHP1/s320/P1000928+(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lake Tekapo as seen from the Mt John Observatory</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Curious cows along our drive</td></tr>
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<b>AKAROA</b> - The stunning drive along Summit Road is a must do
here and the one hour walk along the coast as well. Hector’s dolphins are in
the Banks Peninsula and can only be seen in New Zealand.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>KAIKOURA</b> – This area has a lot of wildlife and is known for
its whales, dolphins and seals. The
Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway is one of the best things to do here .
Starting from town, it is a three hour loop that heads out towards Point Kean
and this is where the fur seal colonies are. From there, continue to walk along
the cliffs to South Bay and then back to town. If you get hungry along the way,
around the second hour of the walk, there is a roadside hut called Kaikoura
Seafood BBQ. Here you will find three hardworking women serving up extremely
fresh, local fish. Their crayfish is half the price compared to the restaurants
in town…don’t try it anywhere else! Along our drive out, we stopped at the Ohau
Stream to see the seal pups.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3ALiVpZH04qq2Jm18d8KZJA-v1zpYb0QAEIbAnqPZsg8pCLj3mLkNrCkAJsmmPXl9-qKqIP6r5H0hXJs72X5gGpiP3aFsCKsAQBamNHC7SOvdFE2QlDkuyhrLbIxZVidWP7B6zuFCX9qS/s1600/20150411_112705+(Medium).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3ALiVpZH04qq2Jm18d8KZJA-v1zpYb0QAEIbAnqPZsg8pCLj3mLkNrCkAJsmmPXl9-qKqIP6r5H0hXJs72X5gGpiP3aFsCKsAQBamNHC7SOvdFE2QlDkuyhrLbIxZVidWP7B6zuFCX9qS/s320/20150411_112705+(Medium).jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seal pups playing at the Ohau Stream</td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03471059532461159422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3358276371486559811.post-91244522257367199042015-04-29T20:20:00.000-07:002015-05-07T20:39:02.845-07:00New Zealand North Island Tour - Whangarei, Matamata, Rotorua, Taupo, Ohakune, Wellington<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>JANUARY 12 – FEBURARY 25, 2015<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b>WHANGAREI MARINA AND NORSAND BOATYARD<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b>NEW ZEALAND, NORTH ISLAND<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b>THEO</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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I flew to New Zealand earlier than Wanda to bring Et Voila
to the Norsand Boat Yard for maintenance work. This has been our first
cross-ocean trip and the boat needed quite a few repairs and adjustments. The
most important item was the replacement of the Yanmar saildrives. The SD50 saildrives
proved unreliable, as they started slipping in Tonga, to the point that I could
not control the boat in a crowded mooring field with gusting winds. I cannot
even imagine what would have happened if the saildrives started slipping while
we were entering an atoll with narrow entrance and high winds. I had about 400
hours on the drives and Yanmar recommends having the clutches re-lapped at 500
hours by a certified Yanmar mechanic… In case you are wondering, there are not
many Yanmar certified mechanics in the South Pacific, and the few that exist
are usually far away. So, I decided to replace the saildrives with the new SD60
model which have different clutch design to address the problem I experienced,
I hope.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boat on the hard.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqdVrX857E8qJ10cXoy6KqlgblQv0Hy_XwOvHdnuKsZvNC5ZNJXWCpXf4uCXi9LhWiWKy3GNWeLsfUHFB5mlJNmq1ySmaRqh8skYUWcWEQ88TXT5AxoJ1gnfXBqoSm0F76eCRwCvTZbRa4/s1600/20150226_173926+(Medium).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqdVrX857E8qJ10cXoy6KqlgblQv0Hy_XwOvHdnuKsZvNC5ZNJXWCpXf4uCXi9LhWiWKy3GNWeLsfUHFB5mlJNmq1ySmaRqh8skYUWcWEQ88TXT5AxoJ1gnfXBqoSm0F76eCRwCvTZbRa4/s1600/20150226_173926+(Medium).jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After a grocery store run.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Other repair items included sail work (minor holes from
standing rigging and UV covers replacement), fixing the non-working freezer
(thermostat problem), bottom paint and propeller prop speed (will see how this
holds up), fixing hull leaks at the chainplate areas, installing two SilentWind
generators, moving the watermaker intake (the existing one was sucking air when
the ocean was rough), checking the standing rigging, replacing the Raymarine VHF
with the Icom M506 (the flybridge remote was crashing the whole system), extending
the bow roller (the chain was cutting into the crossbeam aluminum “U” bracket),
some gelcoat work (aluminum hull dinghy against fiberglass), get New Zealand shore
power certification (in order to connect to shore power) etc., etc… This was in
addition to the list I had for myself to do, like servicing all the engines, checking
the running rigging, re-checking everything, fixing things I no longer
remember, etc. Wanda would have gone nuts if she was here with me. Thank
goodness she stayed back home.<br />
<div class="MsoHeader">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
Since I was alone, I did not think twice about living on the
boat while all this work was done. This meant I had to use the yard facilities
for everything except cooking. I also had to catch the grey water (dirty water)
from the sinks. All in all, it was not bad, and there were a lot of other
boaters around to distract me. My biggest problem was the FLIES!!! For some
reason, flies like boats and they would come in numbers. There were tiny flies,
medium flies and finger nail size (large) flies, which would buzz around and
manage to miss the open doors and hit every window at full speed! I cannot
understand how they do not get a head ache, or head & neck problems. Did I
mention the large ones buzz really loud? Well, while staying at the boat yard,
I realized that I really do not like flies. Then, there were the mosquitoes.
Did I mention that I do not like mosquitoes? I think they follow the flies
around but they take over when you, or the flies, go to sleep. Then, there was
the heat. A boat on the water is nice and comfortable when it’s hot out. A boat
on the hard is miserable. Then, there was the dust. There was no escaping the dust. It gets
everywhere. By the time I left the boat yard, everything was covered with dust.
There was no use trying to clean it because every time the wind blew it would
bring more dust, together with flies, mosquitoes and heat.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
Other than that, it was nice in the boat yard. even though there is something unnatural about being on a boat that is not moving. Much needed work was
getting done. The people were knowledgeable and nice. I really enjoy Kiwis.
They like to talk to everyone, something I am not good at. For instance, when I
would go to the grocery store, the cashier would always ask how my day was and
she never expected “fine” for an answer. She really wanted to hear how my day
was going and then she would go on about her day (while people are waiting in
line behind me)! Wanda thinks she is flirting, but I don’t think so. Most New
Zealanders I meet are that way... They really like to talk. Now, if I can only
understand what they are saying!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
Speaking of accents, before I took Et Voila to the boat
yard, I zeroed in on a car for our land based exploration of New Zealand. If
you need a car for a few months here, it is cheaper to buy one and sell it when
you leave than to rent one. So, I found a 2002 Toyota RAV4 AWD, which I thought
would be great for us. It was sold at Turner’s auction. I had never been to an
auction before, but I understood the concept. As I mentioned, I have a hard
time with the Kiwi accent. An auctioneers’ accent is Kiwi to the tenth power. I did not even know what language he was using!
I had a friend with me (a local of course) and I told him to nudge me when I
was supposed to raise my hand. He nudged me. I raised my hand. I bought the car. The
rest was a Kiwi blur.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy-zKXQmZh-khSb-KO3nxlC9FEYDbuJZBK3Rsw2etSZy5wk_bXuiBdOFQHr6kSswSVRLHHy_yyVtEaXO_uLI8ZQbkvhcu79N74_-qN9W8fz_siGnLk64SuiMNooQE2X9OO4KW4HikrIKsG/s1600/20150328_163400+(Medium).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy-zKXQmZh-khSb-KO3nxlC9FEYDbuJZBK3Rsw2etSZy5wk_bXuiBdOFQHr6kSswSVRLHHy_yyVtEaXO_uLI8ZQbkvhcu79N74_-qN9W8fz_siGnLk64SuiMNooQE2X9OO4KW4HikrIKsG/s1600/20150328_163400+(Medium).jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our ride for the next few months</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
Anyway, I digressed; I was at the boat yard for about month
and a half. I had two failed attempts to escape, both due to the new saildrive
leaks (fixed now). The first time, I was put in the water to be taken back out
right away. A week later, I made it to the Whangarei Marina (paradise, after the boat yard) and
started celebrating (beer), only to find out there was another slow leak. So, I
went back to the boat yard for another week. That was torture!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
Coming from the Norsand boat yard to the Whangarei marina,
you have to cross an opening bridge, something I have not done before. You have
to call Bridge Control on VHF 64 and tell them who you are, mast height and
that you want to pass under the bridge. The crossing area is kind of narrow,
especially for a 26 foot wide catamaran, and the mast looks like it is going to
hit the raised bridge. It was pretty nerve wrecking the first time, but as with
most things in boating, the result was worth it. I finally made it to the
marina with no leaks. I was now within walking distance to the town and stores.
I had one day (two actually, but I celebrated and talked to fellow boaters for
a day) to evict the flies, mosquitoes and wipe the dust (even from the ceiling)
before Wanda arrived.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<br /></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqUCcFJBV2mOCYbYBbuAeAtL0_sq0ZGK8NWRcfTBeImNCsztQwV2IdYVSt4ThyntyFct-_Cke3wWneTiGJLcWc5pNAFSVOU23H7H6Bukw8o93Ozb_NK931EVrkHG3xhKIr-IFLcIA77bSc/s1600/DSC_0004+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqUCcFJBV2mOCYbYBbuAeAtL0_sq0ZGK8NWRcfTBeImNCsztQwV2IdYVSt4ThyntyFct-_Cke3wWneTiGJLcWc5pNAFSVOU23H7H6Bukw8o93Ozb_NK931EVrkHG3xhKIr-IFLcIA77bSc/s1600/DSC_0004+(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boat Houses on the way to Whangarei Marina. Some of the boats, even sailboats, rest on the mud at low tide.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoHeader">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<b>FEBRUARY 26, 2015<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<b>AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<b>NORTH ISLAND<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<b>WANDA</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
I said good-bye to family, friends and LAX and boarded an
11pm flight to Auckland. I took my seat,
listened to some music, ate, watched a movie and then went to sleep. When I
woke up, there was coffee, breakfast and an announcement over the intercom
thanking passengers for flying Air New Zealand and welcoming us to Auckland
airport. It is 8 o’clock in the morning… I love red eye flights!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiASoU7E1rTb-C9pu5aw2it4g8wj-RTGo00l_uGLObR-fO2ejkRiXY-yj0DjJKoIYOd887ZQW71F6dwwO62LIgQS1t9u_hNNdWTI7VfX9Xt0EyeEWwG5DlG1f97NTspZz6vXRshuVMZry56/s1600/IMG_1494+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiASoU7E1rTb-C9pu5aw2it4g8wj-RTGo00l_uGLObR-fO2ejkRiXY-yj0DjJKoIYOd887ZQW71F6dwwO62LIgQS1t9u_hNNdWTI7VfX9Xt0EyeEWwG5DlG1f97NTspZz6vXRshuVMZry56/s1600/IMG_1494+(Medium).JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and my giant duffle bag leaving Los Angeles airport</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
After customs, I went to baggage claim and gathered my giant
duffle bag full of “stuff” that Theo requested for Et Voila. I was very excited
to be back in New Zealand to start a new adventure and I was also looking
forward to seeing my husband again. He had left home in early January with the
purpose to bring our boat to the boatyard and have some much needed maintenance
work done. We had been apart for 6 weeks and I don’t think we have ever been
away from each other for that length of time before. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
I exited the terminal and searched faces, but no Theo. I checked my phone and saw a message that he
was in Auckland traffic (brutal) and making an intense effort to get to the
airport, but he was still about one hour away. I took my backpack and giant duffle bag to the
nearest barista, ordered a flat white and sat down to people watch. There are
many aspects of New Zealand that I like, but I think one of my favorites is how
casually people dress. Almost everyone looks ready to spend a majority of their
day walking the town, or even ready to tackle one of the many tramping tracks.
Clothing and shoes are meant to be comfortable and practical...nothing flashy. I blend in
very well and I truly love that.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
Theo finally arrived and when I hugged him I got a familiar
sense of comfort… it was great to be together again. He looked really tired
though. He had woken up at four o’clock in the morning to get to Auckland on
time to meet me… Oh well. Since we were already in Auckland, we decided to
drive to the immigration office to apply for extensions of our tourist visas.
We knew for sure that Theo would outstay the three months that he was permitted
in the country, even if I didn’t. We have learned to just be on the safe side… no
need for problems in case we needed to stay in New Zealand longer than
expected. Auckland is big, busy and congested, especially when you are in the
city center as we were. After finishing with
immigration, we lunched on some fresh New Zealand green lipped mussels, and then continued
driving through the traffic to our floating home in Whangarei Marina.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPb2HuFa_m1OnljYQvMBZ01unbhi7XGr6W_CLnxsZc6oyK5-2cPryYzNgD5-4TpbvyMYqGB7S3T05HZgCR3sgpfKZRkLTeh8NjDLvFoyFGZnJgJai1AgK8UafEkEtwGd0mtLU-RUcDsH7J/s1600/DSC_0240+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPb2HuFa_m1OnljYQvMBZ01unbhi7XGr6W_CLnxsZc6oyK5-2cPryYzNgD5-4TpbvyMYqGB7S3T05HZgCR3sgpfKZRkLTeh8NjDLvFoyFGZnJgJai1AgK8UafEkEtwGd0mtLU-RUcDsH7J/s1600/DSC_0240+(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Whangarei Marina... Et Voila is on the end.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<b>LESSONS:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
-If you are going to have to wait one hour for your ride
from the airport, use the restroom BEFORE you get your giant duffle bag from
baggage claim.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
-Do not say “bathroom” or “restroom” in NZ. If you need to
relieve yourself ask where the “toilet” or “loo” is.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
-If you are planning to pick someone up from Auckland
airport early in the morning, drive there the night before and stay in a hotel
nearby.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<b>QUOTES: TOILET WISDOM</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirm_fukpjrNrs4s2x7gj3Js3pMZQcwOwqK6zIhSaTE_e-xYp27Gy2Kn38aLTGEnGkuhxXIM13WmRdXUTO6vZSc3BLbL_UxDIDMl7i2QBclBYk0_sKfpM81PrdqvYWgjuHuVSgYKroiRRHz/s1600/DSC_0055+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirm_fukpjrNrs4s2x7gj3Js3pMZQcwOwqK6zIhSaTE_e-xYp27Gy2Kn38aLTGEnGkuhxXIM13WmRdXUTO6vZSc3BLbL_UxDIDMl7i2QBclBYk0_sKfpM81PrdqvYWgjuHuVSgYKroiRRHz/s1600/DSC_0055+(Medium).JPG" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<b>KIWI TERMS:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
-Sweet As = Awesome or It’s all good<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
-Rellies = Family/Relatives<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
-Bach = A holiday home<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
-Tramping = Hiking <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
-Bust a Gut = To make an extreme effort<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
-Flat White = Café Latte<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
-Knackered = Tired<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
-Sparrow Fart = Crack of dawn or very early in the morning<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
-Bathroom = A place in a home where you will find a bath, shower
or hand basin (sink)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
-Restroom = A place in a home where you rest<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<b>FEBURARY 27 – MARCH 7, 2015<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<b>WHANGAREI MARINA, NEW ZEALAND<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<b>NORTH ISLAND</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
Et Voila felt larger than I remember her. Theo had “busted a
gut” cleaning after the long stay in the boatyard, but it was clear that there
was still a lot of work to do. We spent
our days wiping the boat down, organizing, visiting with other sailors, walking
the lovely trails nearby and resting. We know many of the other sailboats here.
Like us, people have gone home to visit family and, lately, have been returning
back to the marina and their floating homes. Every Tuesday night there is a pot
luck dinner at the marina office. Whoever wants to join in brings some food for
the barbecue and their drink of choice. It is a nice way to spend an evening
and catch up with what everyone else is doing.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
We also attended the wedding of some friends that we met in Bora Bora. Phil and Sara are traveling on the sailing vessel Lochmarin and were married on March 6<sup>th</sup>. It was one
of the most relaxed and entertaining celebrations we have ever been too. Phil
and Sara are from the UK and they managed to find a band that played very fun
Scottish dance music. We spent a
majority of the evening dancing … even Theo!! It was a fantastic time and
everyone was very happy. We are grateful to have been a part of the
celebration. Congratulations Phil and Sara! Thank you for a lovely and
memorable party.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf09EiQuvKnr4-_TXfBWJk3FFYzXzoDVINO20lb6arcCIOTRqqSmsm8tz5EuhGCIVoPdaYc_Cp4zLoASitK8gDm8aAwFdQNV2aQt5hByFH-m25w3-yXMypIWarErF5W-83uvBO77xbiCVh/s1600/P1000021+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf09EiQuvKnr4-_TXfBWJk3FFYzXzoDVINO20lb6arcCIOTRqqSmsm8tz5EuhGCIVoPdaYc_Cp4zLoASitK8gDm8aAwFdQNV2aQt5hByFH-m25w3-yXMypIWarErF5W-83uvBO77xbiCVh/s1600/P1000021+(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me, Sara (the bride) and Joyce at Sara's Hen party two days before the wedding</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbIA677H1c-By4ww5XNS0XhrmGJldNFznkUMuA5BKOu1oaosQ-c2zJ2qBRImj1ybjqJDNAhkFfldQ46ddTku5k4Ql8OkTl3nxgPEyxClPaOUrSAaboVaO5rw7tCpzT62gMvVuO1uHR_Ame/s1600/P1000038+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbIA677H1c-By4ww5XNS0XhrmGJldNFznkUMuA5BKOu1oaosQ-c2zJ2qBRImj1ybjqJDNAhkFfldQ46ddTku5k4Ql8OkTl3nxgPEyxClPaOUrSAaboVaO5rw7tCpzT62gMvVuO1uHR_Ame/s1600/P1000038+(Medium).JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The crazy New Zealand weather cooperated during the vows</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIw6kst4s6AvD7Q7LmFszJCw5kYqD7L3Crk_e9WPA4KU9uQHFIHtUom0WGTYIKLKnPuikezPmBANCm3zdTyaBBNY2WCc2U15MMP_bKzZlEGsuoBu2AEkGx_6z4xhNCcZRC8ahqvU-Y5GaM/s1600/P1000023+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIw6kst4s6AvD7Q7LmFszJCw5kYqD7L3Crk_e9WPA4KU9uQHFIHtUom0WGTYIKLKnPuikezPmBANCm3zdTyaBBNY2WCc2U15MMP_bKzZlEGsuoBu2AEkGx_6z4xhNCcZRC8ahqvU-Y5GaM/s1600/P1000023+(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Phil and Sara celebrating at the Butter Factory in Whangarei</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVqQUjI44iNcs0t7KkTfooxZ574Kdu2Yc9KRrJoUquc0PmkvgTQvqpZaQ4vWK-pFEmXfG8nMV3snJtEpRaTdQUKEPtOFYa1nonRV0QMg5T4DVY8eQmg653w5nM9zfeTPT8824uMeGELw9F/s1600/Wedding+1+(Medium).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVqQUjI44iNcs0t7KkTfooxZ574Kdu2Yc9KRrJoUquc0PmkvgTQvqpZaQ4vWK-pFEmXfG8nMV3snJtEpRaTdQUKEPtOFYa1nonRV0QMg5T4DVY8eQmg653w5nM9zfeTPT8824uMeGELw9F/s1600/Wedding+1+(Medium).jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wedding photos to remember...who are those people?!</td></tr>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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While I was in the United States, Theo went to a car
auction. Despite the fact that he could not understand a word that was being
said, he bought a 2002 RAV4. The car was in pretty good condition…except for
the layers upon layers of what we think is dog hair embedded in the upholstery, and the
unrelenting cologne smell that we could not seem to remove from the driver side
seat belt. While driving, my allergies did bother me a bit (sneezing and
itching in my throat), but otherwise the car seemed okay. It had all-wheel
drive for rough terrain, air-conditioning and wasn’t too expensive. In the end, everything worked out alright… hopefully
it will get us through our New Zealand adventures without any surprises!<o:p></o:p></div>
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We are leaving soon to tour the Islands with our car. The
ferry from Wellington to Picton (South Island) has been reserved for March 15<sup>th</sup>,
so we had better get going!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>QUOTE:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGMXGg7N6xufA1NqOGqtrUyQpN6UGi_rc1cdzBfq7WxoX3piw2ManYr4lAsn9J3aqW9Kt3PtBIA4eU_QHvt3XvTZm8MvBKh9eEdSBhMRyRBs8MVtehnyrI_-Ab-czIV67IZGf5bY59vF1u/s1600/P1000222+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGMXGg7N6xufA1NqOGqtrUyQpN6UGi_rc1cdzBfq7WxoX3piw2ManYr4lAsn9J3aqW9Kt3PtBIA4eU_QHvt3XvTZm8MvBKh9eEdSBhMRyRBs8MVtehnyrI_-Ab-czIV67IZGf5bY59vF1u/s1600/P1000222+(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>KIWI TERMS:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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-Dear = Expensive<o:p></o:p></div>
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-Panel Beater = Auto Body Shop<o:p></o:p></div>
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-Petrol = Fuel<o:p></o:p></div>
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-Bonnet = Car Hood<o:p></o:p></div>
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-Boot = Car Trunk<o:p></o:p></div>
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-Bun Fight = A social gathering with food<o:p></o:p></div>
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-Piss Up = A social gathering with alcohol<o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p> </o:p> </div>
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<b>MARCH 8 – MARCH 15, 2015<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b>Leaving Whangarei Marina<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b>Driving South towards Wellington, NZ </b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Theo and I are not planners. Before we leave for a trip, we
have a specific goal we want to achieve and an approximate return date, but
everything in between is usually left up in the air. We do this purposefully so
we are not on a strict schedule and can change paths along the way if we feel
like it. That being said, this time we went to the Information Center here in
Whangarei and met Jackie. Jackie was very willing to help us plan an itinerary
for our tour of New Zealand, especially since we had not booked anywhere to
sleep along the way. We decided to give it a go, and she graciously planned our
driving trip towards the Capital of New Zealand…Wellington. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I have to say that New Zealand makes everything so easy if
you are a tourist. Every city and almost all of the larger towns have an
Information Center (I – Site). All of their services are free and they will
arrange transportation, show you driving routes, book tours and accommodations.
Basically, anything you may need! This is so convenient and Theo and I have
never experienced this anywhere else that we have travelled before. They have
really got it together. Theo made me laugh really hard when he said (in a very
serious voice), “What do you mean? Italy has I-Sites everywhere!” Well, if you had been with us during some of
our crazy experiences in that country, you would think that statement was
funny… but explaining that would be a completely different blog!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>MATAMATA (North Island)</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Anyway, we gathered our itinerary, backpacks, tramping shoes
and cooler and packed them into our car. Once we filled up with petrol, we
began driving to our first destination… Matamata. The Lord of the Rings was
filmed throughout New Zealand, but Matamata is where Hobbiton, the hobbit
village, was built for the movie. It is on private farmland, so after filming
was over, the owner of the land arranged to keep some of the original hobbit holes
and opened it to the public as a tour. This is now known as the Hobbiton Tour
and is the heart and soul of Matamata (along with dairy, cows and sheep). Theo
and I were more than happy to start our adventures as true tourists and visit
Hobbiton. It was a great start and a fun time!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJfuzZiMY-6k-s7SezekoDumK-5yHurB06n145JC90lmn2remadupvQRkFqDsUEF8FU8JVpC-2vdPRqlPmayADo8U5zHLt_K_bsXyNBHrSeAjhiNqylRch2SpR2pSG0__qcyyRuTt6YjAB/s1600/DSC_0025+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJfuzZiMY-6k-s7SezekoDumK-5yHurB06n145JC90lmn2remadupvQRkFqDsUEF8FU8JVpC-2vdPRqlPmayADo8U5zHLt_K_bsXyNBHrSeAjhiNqylRch2SpR2pSG0__qcyyRuTt6YjAB/s1600/DSC_0025+(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In tourist mode</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyWtYtsOYVllNded7ip-xcW6LiKbkOjo71Pl0MqqV9PCPHh-_cCqTpUycCZbKWuUNKR41Uj5H2yIYSt6f9mCGBhh2HZJMiAoLSvoohXbQ4kt4F3xE_P-LFS5SyWmoSCqMTlm0Quh3z3JSK/s1600/20150309_111506+(Medium).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyWtYtsOYVllNded7ip-xcW6LiKbkOjo71Pl0MqqV9PCPHh-_cCqTpUycCZbKWuUNKR41Uj5H2yIYSt6f9mCGBhh2HZJMiAoLSvoohXbQ4kt4F3xE_P-LFS5SyWmoSCqMTlm0Quh3z3JSK/s1600/20150309_111506+(Medium).jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In Hobbiton...actually, this home is just my size!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinF9BftrfjEqmpXbT2CNGrjqoDO4j2wmy7c2JRWcUMXen3Zsaewc5EqbBieOQ9H8-YzTRGj-TTjdOegGxps6h6uA-W71QSl2MgcKbt6aAWMdYs48tG9sJQ_mnW2KKyp50SBNtwVVUVm-ry/s1600/IMG_2662+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinF9BftrfjEqmpXbT2CNGrjqoDO4j2wmy7c2JRWcUMXen3Zsaewc5EqbBieOQ9H8-YzTRGj-TTjdOegGxps6h6uA-W71QSl2MgcKbt6aAWMdYs48tG9sJQ_mnW2KKyp50SBNtwVVUVm-ry/s1600/IMG_2662+(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimoX33EGVQbmJlSF4HHmNMTUd0ytjSO1aYlDierhYemlv-VudPL9z51NErPvpBCsN609J_R2xBErl_tV8IzgxdlU4MrddjjUAzAlHjhkFKmzieQRTo68cg9c-pXNYCKvXVCWoWjjSPm-3a/s1600/IMG_2725+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimoX33EGVQbmJlSF4HHmNMTUd0ytjSO1aYlDierhYemlv-VudPL9z51NErPvpBCsN609J_R2xBErl_tV8IzgxdlU4MrddjjUAzAlHjhkFKmzieQRTo68cg9c-pXNYCKvXVCWoWjjSPm-3a/s1600/IMG_2725+(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<b>ROTORUA</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Next was Rotorua. This is a bigger city with MANY tourists.
Rotorua is like the Las Vegas of New Zealand. You will find every extreme sport
here. Sky diving, bungee jumping, caving, rock climbing, jet boating and I could
go on and on. If you visit here but don’t feel like being too physically
active, you can always go Zorbing. All you have to do is sit in the
center of a gigantic, transparent plastic ball and they will roll you down a
hill…seriously …I saw this happen!<br />
<br />
Click here to see it: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=35&v=qPKKtvkVAjY" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Rotorua Zorbing</a><br />
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Rotorua is a great
opportunity to learn about the Maori people. It’s a bit commercialized here,
but it is the best way to experience New Zealand’s indigenous culture. So…we
bought our tickets to visit the Tamaki Maori Village and we really enjoyed the
evening. We were taken by bus to the village and once there, were taken on a
tour that explained Maori history, art and customs. All of this was followed by
a concert and a traditional (and impressive) hangi feast. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4e4evv5rvIzb1_H7j6O8l3O3h5dsdIOyR2C-0SJAKz4gVaLVFK_yPvJSws66dsB3Z2f6sjEp6Oq_NRcLaSnLR2KYxUnVRLJSzcubuh1JhMnhdbg-xyXo9Xqct0Dvb9SBFlQ71iiGt-Sqa/s1600/P1000496+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4e4evv5rvIzb1_H7j6O8l3O3h5dsdIOyR2C-0SJAKz4gVaLVFK_yPvJSws66dsB3Z2f6sjEp6Oq_NRcLaSnLR2KYxUnVRLJSzcubuh1JhMnhdbg-xyXo9Xqct0Dvb9SBFlQ71iiGt-Sqa/s1600/P1000496+(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entering the Maori village </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Rotorua is also a thermal wonderland and, yes, it does smell
like rotten eggs in most places. We walked Wai-O-Tapu and also tramped along
the Waimangu Volcanic Valley. If you are here I recommend seeing both. They are
unique and beautiful. Just know that if you are visiting during high season the
trails will be busy. Be patient because it is worth it!</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqHmqcLcr6tZNgWSX55FzPzdjjeM7l-DL0z0mIPL7Udb_ZZbIG_sC9ci9CPjKDHL1sp0flWUPKgW4ZvaAmfq2AZZJeN78I-gXycmqaaHuFkvuBGkJbdTZWZuwq1BPAs6xfGSkty8arXG8D/s1600/P1000547+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="113" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqHmqcLcr6tZNgWSX55FzPzdjjeM7l-DL0z0mIPL7Udb_ZZbIG_sC9ci9CPjKDHL1sp0flWUPKgW4ZvaAmfq2AZZJeN78I-gXycmqaaHuFkvuBGkJbdTZWZuwq1BPAs6xfGSkty8arXG8D/s1600/P1000547+(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Images of Wai-O-Tapu. Amazing colors!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiybStuziCI3_dGwmlAnw0upw9VXjPpQg-c1Hq985_sYFnkYLL4A8UEYGc8lppVqn_7Cpc-9HV_J1qB9RTkee4Q8ILZ_CEHBvOtwRW6lcSIdTHYBVabfi6L0Xxk9QrpDDiHmZ7vLCE1-QUC/s1600/IMG_2840+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiybStuziCI3_dGwmlAnw0upw9VXjPpQg-c1Hq985_sYFnkYLL4A8UEYGc8lppVqn_7Cpc-9HV_J1qB9RTkee4Q8ILZ_CEHBvOtwRW6lcSIdTHYBVabfi6L0Xxk9QrpDDiHmZ7vLCE1-QUC/s1600/IMG_2840+(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrJfUL4Y4Axn4qA8cUzh0148jxxcBqx2YAnNYbeO6xci4DMsxCJkkjUBOQat7juD0-ivt9hiUIoxy3HmxyTLyt8SnC0YuGyu7v7Tp4oaZmUaWJ0r9DqtXk9XSiRHR2PMxd8q8fwRVwftx3/s1600/IMG_2856+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrJfUL4Y4Axn4qA8cUzh0148jxxcBqx2YAnNYbeO6xci4DMsxCJkkjUBOQat7juD0-ivt9hiUIoxy3HmxyTLyt8SnC0YuGyu7v7Tp4oaZmUaWJ0r9DqtXk9XSiRHR2PMxd8q8fwRVwftx3/s1600/IMG_2856+(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4piLyb0ULxvzUHHRh6AmxLBGZkNJiwCsGWOKQ7uQ4TOZL9BkMw8OHIK6btXVRMz6Etgc106DlPollAMa011YG6VKU2qHfU-70fwJMwur1zrax-Fk8bbEHUcwXAAlHyHRrEC5_tvPKir6P/s1600/IMG_2887+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4piLyb0ULxvzUHHRh6AmxLBGZkNJiwCsGWOKQ7uQ4TOZL9BkMw8OHIK6btXVRMz6Etgc106DlPollAMa011YG6VKU2qHfU-70fwJMwur1zrax-Fk8bbEHUcwXAAlHyHRrEC5_tvPKir6P/s1600/IMG_2887+(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXHJMCLBUaF9A4QGt52rOhWaAtkSTDy-O8uNf-fQsRT9ldmV2IOYeiHg5dsPQOQH_RmC1Z9AqPWyKg9kQyC9SafZV55Vm_IFlOAcvAIMyGe8OuATKBN062PVBZolXhqqzJccHlt8_AYko_/s1600/20150311_102748+(Medium).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXHJMCLBUaF9A4QGt52rOhWaAtkSTDy-O8uNf-fQsRT9ldmV2IOYeiHg5dsPQOQH_RmC1Z9AqPWyKg9kQyC9SafZV55Vm_IFlOAcvAIMyGe8OuATKBN062PVBZolXhqqzJccHlt8_AYko_/s1600/20150311_102748+(Medium).jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wai-O-Tapu Geyser</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
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<div class="MsoHeader">
<o:p>We also went to the Astrodome Farm Show. Here we were given a tour of their property and got to interact with the animals. They familiarized us with the many different types of sheep, showed us how a sheep is sheered and (my favorite) got to watch the dogs herding them. Here are some pictures of that day.</o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6XSTeBZsI8L0ymK1NBiT5bO8dxiesKHu_AmiJrMUBiumvJYGlbn6jp0xDQMpmC11xn3T8Fj8j0e3i3DdoIo5aQi9GZVLcoIXjMX4y1FewehfvZQ84gWb8kO4d8xVQVr2e1OnrXu0CTOCr/s1600/P1000327+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6XSTeBZsI8L0ymK1NBiT5bO8dxiesKHu_AmiJrMUBiumvJYGlbn6jp0xDQMpmC11xn3T8Fj8j0e3i3DdoIo5aQi9GZVLcoIXjMX4y1FewehfvZQ84gWb8kO4d8xVQVr2e1OnrXu0CTOCr/s1600/P1000327+(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Merino Wool comes from this gorgeous creature</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Four legged friends</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Feeding a deer by hand!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A kiwifruit orchard on the farm</td></tr>
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There is a lot to do in Rotorua, but if you are visiting here and have time, I recommend walking the loop at Hamurana Springs. Not only is the track gorgeous and peaceful, but an added bonus is that the water is cold and pure. It is a leisurely walk and at the end you can drink the cleanest water there is!</div>
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<o:p> </o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crystal clear, pure drinking water</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLkYEGN2TUwsgZqKZNweShvPYrJrm2mn06b7oMRbuokGevkTh0lI8X2Z3ibwfdxHaFb-4dEiDX19F_7D2bepYLfjzES7q3TOCBgVztn6DAB7KO5xl07ke5OC_oBuDjbfXK05c3NL-f5F8n/s1600/P1000481+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLkYEGN2TUwsgZqKZNweShvPYrJrm2mn06b7oMRbuokGevkTh0lI8X2Z3ibwfdxHaFb-4dEiDX19F_7D2bepYLfjzES7q3TOCBgVztn6DAB7KO5xl07ke5OC_oBuDjbfXK05c3NL-f5F8n/s1600/P1000481+(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo filling up our water bottles with cold water</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tramping through the Redwood groves</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYKfxq7LYfaJqzPq4y-Y4dgcW0FdmSp0VI0jv9fnuQK62hl6JkoOvsZDTZZ6-MFvX9mGLTcq8wZEBX1ndnI_sW9YFrcvvAxrfbEEJ46MPjzuh-SSgRUzeBbgzjjCW2yY2X0wSA898O07Zy/s1600/P1000465+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYKfxq7LYfaJqzPq4y-Y4dgcW0FdmSp0VI0jv9fnuQK62hl6JkoOvsZDTZZ6-MFvX9mGLTcq8wZEBX1ndnI_sW9YFrcvvAxrfbEEJ46MPjzuh-SSgRUzeBbgzjjCW2yY2X0wSA898O07Zy/s1600/P1000465+(Medium).JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBTvXsyt2ZdG7_teqA855yNYBxHfiIztqlqqR4cVJvPAN93QhZQFyrd00ABOEnRhy4y6p6k2ScSICJouky0xG_Ds7L0oYLzO24ImYEMdt7f5ZFoBJ3x27R4rsybNRPXkiIl3ODE5IK5WW6/s1600/DSC_0030+(Medium).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBTvXsyt2ZdG7_teqA855yNYBxHfiIztqlqqR4cVJvPAN93QhZQFyrd00ABOEnRhy4y6p6k2ScSICJouky0xG_Ds7L0oYLzO24ImYEMdt7f5ZFoBJ3x27R4rsybNRPXkiIl3ODE5IK5WW6/s320/DSC_0030+(Medium).JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoHeader">
<b>TAUPO</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Next was a one hour drive to a Euro style lakeside town
called Taupo. It is postcard-perfect
here. New Zealand is truly breathtaking and a fantasyland if you love being
with nature and enjoy outdoor activities. We were very tired from our
hikes, so we just had a leisurely walk around the lake, dinner at a bistro and
rested for the next day. At this point we decided we had done the right thing
letting Jackie help us with our accommodations. At least we did not have to
spend time searching the town for a place to lay our heads. Thank you Jackie!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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The weather had turned overcast and rainy as we drove two
hours further south towards Tongariro National Park. We stayed just south of
the park in a small ski town called Okajune. Our intention was to drive to the
entrance of the park in the morning and go tramping on the beautiful trails,
but when I woke up the next day, I felt like I had been hit by a truck. My
eyes, head and throat hurt and I had a high fever. I could barely keep my eyes open and most of
my strength was gone. Theo began calling around town to find a doctor that had
some time to see me. He quickly found out that there were no doctors in
Okajune, so he drove me to the next town where he was told to go to a green
building on the corner of the main street. When we got there we realized that
there are many different shades of green and there are also many street corners.
Anyway, we eventually found it and we were told it would be 60 NZ dollars to
see him. No big deal… I was truly miserable. When we met the doctor… he was a
comedian. I sat down on the examination table and here is how our visit went:<o:p></o:p></div>
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DR: Where are you from?<o:p></o:p></div>
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ME: Los Angeles<o:p></o:p></div>
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DR: I’ve been there! Wow, that airport is crazy! I was going down the stairs and there was a
great big picture of Obama’s face! I was expecting him to be wearing a crown or
something!<o:p></o:p></div>
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ME: (staring at him with no words and mouth slightly open)<o:p></o:p></div>
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DR: What’s your name?<o:p></o:p></div>
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ME: Wanda<o:p></o:p></div>
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DR: Like the fish!<o:p></o:p></div>
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ME: Yep (my skin was crawling from the fever)<o:p></o:p></div>
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DR: (to Theo) Are you Iranian?<o:p></o:p></div>
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THEO: No, I’m Greek.<o:p></o:p></div>
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DR: Oh, have you seen the movie My Big Fat Greek Wedding?
(Then he pointed at me) Why don’t you just spray her with some Windex? <o:p></o:p></div>
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THEO: I should have tried that before driving all the way
here to see you.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
(The fluorescent lighting in the bright, white room was
painful to my eyes, so I started exaggerating my cough with the hope of
speeding things up)…<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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DR: Don’t cough into your hand, cough into your elbow so
there is less chance of you getting someone else sick if you touch them.<o:p></o:p></div>
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THEO: Too late.<o:p></o:p></div>
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DR: So, is this your trip of a lifetime… New Zealand?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
(At this point, I was glaring at Theo and thinking… Pleeeeease
don’t! Just say” Yes” and let’s get out
of here!)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
THEO: Well, actually, we sailed here from Catalina Island
our catamaran.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
(SHIT! I thought I was going to pass out right there and
then. The doc was very interested to hear about our sailing trip… they went on
for what felt like an eternity. It is Theo’s favorite thing to talk about after
all. I just leaned my back against the wall and closed my eyes.)<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
DR: (Finally) So, Wanda, there are some serious brain
viruses that you might have… is your neck stiff?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
ME: My neck has been stiff for eleven years.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
DR: Have you been to Africa?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
ME: No<o:p></o:p></div>
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DR: Have you been with anyone that has been to Africa?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
ME: No… (cough)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
DR: Okay, here is some Tylenol, antibiotics, cough syrup and
my phone number in case things go funny… now go rest.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
DR: (to Theo) Let her watch whatever she wants on the telly.
There is a cricket match on today!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
(Then he went on to say that if we had Cricket in the United
States, it would revolutionize the world… I think if Theo and I would have met
the doctor under different circumstances, we would have had a great time
together!)<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
The next day I continued to feel very ill, but my fever was
better. Unfortunately, Theo was getting sick as well. Our itinerary had us
booked on the ferry early the following morning, so we drove the four hours to
Wellington. We were looking forward to beginning our tour of the South Island. It was March 14<sup>th</sup> and we had just
heard reports that Cyclone Pam has devastated Vanuatu with 230 km/hr winds and
13 meter seas...surreal. Meanwhile, the winds in Whangarei Marina reached 35 knots, so no harm done.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>LESSONS:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
-After having traveled the North Island with an Itinerary, I
think it best to have one. It keeps you on a schedule and moving along. We would have lingered longer at some places,
and because of lack of time, would not have seen as much as we did.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
-Bring antibiotics with you.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<o:p>-There is no negotiating with Mother Nature. She is the boss.</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<b>QUOTES:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
-“I love deadlines. I like the whooshing sound they make as
they fly by.” –Douglas Adams</div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<b>KIWI TERMS:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
-Chillybin = Cooler<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
-Two sammies short of a picnic = A bit crazy<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
-Lorry = Truck<o:p></o:p></div>
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-Crook = Quite ill<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
-Dreaded Lurgy = the Flu or Head Cold<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
-Go Funny = Take a turn for the worse<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoHeader">
-Telly = Television<o:p></o:p></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03471059532461159422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3358276371486559811.post-68674388019422354382014-11-07T23:04:00.003-08:002014-12-17T10:37:13.140-08:00Passage from Tonga to New Zealand.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>OCTOBER 19 – 28, 2014<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<strong>
</strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>PASSAGE FROM PORT MOURELLE, TONGA TO OPUA, NEW ZEALAND<o:p></o:p></strong></span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We awoke in Port Mourelle to a beautiful, calm day. We drank
our coffee and reflected on the fact that we were leaving paradise for a
notoriously rough passage to New Zealand. Theo and I had been preparing
ourselves mentally for it the entire week and we felt as ready as we ever would.
We left around 10 o’clock am with our friends Joyce and Bob just ahead of us on
the sailing vessel Chara. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bob called us
on the radio and said “It doesn’t get any better than this”! It was a
spectacular day for sailing… for a few hours... then the only way I can
describe it is that our boat got “hammered.” We did not have our sea legs yet,
so the result was that we all got seasick (even poor little Isabel). I was
lying on the couch with my eyes closed cursing our decision to do the passage.
We were travelling 1,300 nautical miles to New Zealand and I could not begin to deal with having 9 to 10 days of that crazy ocean!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhjNb__hJXu-6FG7dnMHZIpq9NrOLqBsbEF8mTbgru2n8EIV5s0hnVmgsvsOj5xJzjMEZfEiEYpvRmcvoEK2xRQBoKJ2zRiF7G9pml8MYjeLBUIwzjSEwsoNNAdN53DNcZ5PTcC4SpQxIl/s1600/IMG_2497+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhjNb__hJXu-6FG7dnMHZIpq9NrOLqBsbEF8mTbgru2n8EIV5s0hnVmgsvsOj5xJzjMEZfEiEYpvRmcvoEK2xRQBoKJ2zRiF7G9pml8MYjeLBUIwzjSEwsoNNAdN53DNcZ5PTcC4SpQxIl/s1600/IMG_2497+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The "Magic Reel" chewed, bent and broken by a 50 pound Mahi...it is officially retired.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMTsTab-Sbj1eOyPLDUCPZrqGVMh7mPLhpmJiLaGZ_w6AAg3lh_AnqyV-vqSgbnqcvMZ4I0BmIbY7OYjAF1Ilr_GbCx1KXYAl9VPoV7PB4OhQMKxY8j_FtFPzguOni3WTCvBnr7fSOFi78/s1600/IMG_2506+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMTsTab-Sbj1eOyPLDUCPZrqGVMh7mPLhpmJiLaGZ_w6AAg3lh_AnqyV-vqSgbnqcvMZ4I0BmIbY7OYjAF1Ilr_GbCx1KXYAl9VPoV7PB4OhQMKxY8j_FtFPzguOni3WTCvBnr7fSOFi78/s1600/IMG_2506+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo talking to Bob during our passage</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Thankfully, the next day was calm, and the next, and the
next.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Actually, there was hardly any
wind at all until the last few days and we motored for half of our trip. The
very last day and night we got “hammered” again. We experienced a very confused
ocean and huge waves crashed into the cockpit and over our bow, but we never
felt in danger. Our boat was built to withstand this type of treatment… Theo,
Isabel and I are another matter. It was extremely uncomfortable and we were very tired from alternating night watches for 8 days. Theo tried to sleep, but was not
able to on that last stormy evening. When we finally entered the bay, we didn’t
even speak to each other. We sat up on the flying bridge (comforting Isabel) in
our foul weather gear and just stared at the land around us. It was grey and
raining, but the beauty of New Zealand was undisputable. We had completed the
passage and we felt exhausted, relieved and rewarded.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCQ9_jRXygYur6Z5AHkmBPZlKD9RWGOwmQoEK90uiulxNb_gpk7lypYJCKbwOSkoP7nTb48y-UOuYoXYfor47HMxEMn5uys0RdXlpY7GE6yOqX0tCFn9_jpHGoz4JRqKk01XxST1PWDDHF/s1600/IMG_2530+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCQ9_jRXygYur6Z5AHkmBPZlKD9RWGOwmQoEK90uiulxNb_gpk7lypYJCKbwOSkoP7nTb48y-UOuYoXYfor47HMxEMn5uys0RdXlpY7GE6yOqX0tCFn9_jpHGoz4JRqKk01XxST1PWDDHF/s1600/IMG_2530+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our first glimpse of New Zealand (Scary weather)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWu-cmUs7OxfXZ05VtogI2CZ93-s53CuAN6GfNeKeg1mS4QNWs7S_tAEBuhMCUP2SGlaaTjY8CPHLhrtg2Q6MGISCGPElrptxM5_TXh_7xAyA9kLa2gyMKQiDPGmBd8ruWgDzDiJGqvn4C/s1600/IMG_2538+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWu-cmUs7OxfXZ05VtogI2CZ93-s53CuAN6GfNeKeg1mS4QNWs7S_tAEBuhMCUP2SGlaaTjY8CPHLhrtg2Q6MGISCGPElrptxM5_TXh_7xAyA9kLa2gyMKQiDPGmBd8ruWgDzDiJGqvn4C/s1600/IMG_2538+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pine Island as seen from Opua Marina</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimJ1q_l6mtzokwN0hyphenhyphenUjprhFcvnM-uZFk1oDWumPk2rWRXaqbZfbqF2scyWMhdiDuHzgwaRIi4O_CdQxUQ33pSRmjn4f4GRftUDv2W1oN56Mstk3CVUMY7kpF4H7xIXJw9EdxNafLT02BE/s1600/IMG_2534+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimJ1q_l6mtzokwN0hyphenhyphenUjprhFcvnM-uZFk1oDWumPk2rWRXaqbZfbqF2scyWMhdiDuHzgwaRIi4O_CdQxUQ33pSRmjn4f4GRftUDv2W1oN56Mstk3CVUMY7kpF4H7xIXJw9EdxNafLT02BE/s1600/IMG_2534+(Copy).JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo proudly raising our New Zealand flag</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>October 28, 2014<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<strong>
</strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Opua Bay Marina, New Zealand<o:p></o:p></strong></span><br />
<strong>
</strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Quarantine Dock<o:p></o:p></strong></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We were immediately guided to the quarantine dock and had
officers on board as soon as we tied up. Theo and I looked a mess, we still had our foul weather gear on and bewildered expressions. Isabel was not happy with
the strangers boarding her boat, so she was doing her best angry bark. She was
wearing a black fleece with a hoodie, so you can imagine that she got laughed
at! Everyone was welcoming and friendly. The whole check in process took about
an hour and a half and was painless. They did go through all of our storage on
the boat and removed quit a few things from the galley. Our quarantine
inspector, Mike, was rummaging around in our stateroom and finally came up and
asked “Do you have any more of these”? He was holding up two cans of bear
repellent that Theo had stashed away for our protection. This stuff is great... it is a bear pepper spray and can shoot up to 20 feet away. We have no
fire arms on board, so that was all we had if someone ever approached Et Voila without being invited. Since we forgot to declare them, Mike seized the cans
of bear repellent and said we would not be able to get them back. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He assured us we would not need them in New
Zealand anyway… he said “No need for that here Love”!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkuNaXuwkMxjl1AIuuO0_MXXYmVBSvjkZcQJQlw4uDXaXj-lnC2THEmuUZeZE1sMnGSM0BsZCuWhTRdxcjfjnDg33u7Cnnd5iSj52KmrBvyWuok0f59gwdBN-4jI1TJpWXx0rO_YLnxrGx/s1600/IMG_2505+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkuNaXuwkMxjl1AIuuO0_MXXYmVBSvjkZcQJQlw4uDXaXj-lnC2THEmuUZeZE1sMnGSM0BsZCuWhTRdxcjfjnDg33u7Cnnd5iSj52KmrBvyWuok0f59gwdBN-4jI1TJpWXx0rO_YLnxrGx/s1600/IMG_2505+(Copy).JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Isabel trying to look scary in her black hoodie</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Next was the discussion about getting Isabel on a flight to
Los Angeles. We still had to apply for a permit to travel and then she would
have to see a veterinarian to get more paperwork stamped and signed so she
could leave. This will take a while!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The final people to come on board were a man and a woman who
basically welcomed us to New Zealand and told us about services that were
available in the Opua Marina. I was told with a sympathetic smile that there was a spa
where I could get my hair and nails done… if I wasn’t so tired, I would have
cried with happiness!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>October 28 – November 5, 2014<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<strong>
</strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Opua Bay Marina, New Zealand<o:p></o:p></strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We decided to anchor by the Opua marina instead of picking
up a mooring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After anchoring all over
French Polynesia we felt very comfortable and had never experienced any
problems. We were exhausted, so we went to sleep early. When we woke up we were
sooooo cold. There were three blankets on our bed and we were wearing beanies,
sweaters, pants and socks. Springtime in New Zealand! I know” hate” is a very
strong word, but I can confidently tell you that Theo hates the cold. This man
has crossed an ocean with all of its squalls and various other challenges. Now,
he looks outside like he is about to walk into a hungry lion’s den. It is only
cold weather… Oh brother!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwMVp2PJI53IDbSupvoJQrn27r0Z-jSCXrAHwqGk1WE7yDSn6AE9bDVgDiweRxZc6uKB3zROIgU1ydm1RF95MvJd5EZDMwoA7XbmrFSxBYENH8P-5qHpUS0G-rH9uEdwBeXNXiCvhBj4dv/s1600/vlcsnap-2014-11-08-18h58m49s239+(Copy)%2B(Copy).png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwMVp2PJI53IDbSupvoJQrn27r0Z-jSCXrAHwqGk1WE7yDSn6AE9bDVgDiweRxZc6uKB3zROIgU1ydm1RF95MvJd5EZDMwoA7XbmrFSxBYENH8P-5qHpUS0G-rH9uEdwBeXNXiCvhBj4dv/s1600/vlcsnap-2014-11-08-18h58m49s239+(Copy)%2B(Copy).png" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big, strong, courageous man becomes whiny baby boy in the cold</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After we had our
coffee, we realized we were not in the same location as the night before. Theo
said “Wasn’t that boat behind us and on the other side”? Oh S*#T! The wind had
picked up while we slept and our anchor did not hold. We knew it was a muddy
bottom and we put out a lot of chain, but the wind was very strong. We were
extremely lucky to have not collided with another boat! We called the marina and asked
for a mooring ball. They had one left that could hold a catamaran, so we took off
immediately to pick it up. The problem was that the wind was over 20 knots and
gusting. It was difficult to control Et Voila. We managed to find the mooring,
but we lost our hook along with our patience… there was even a bit of cursing
(okay, a lot of cursing and some finger gestures as well). <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was a
scary and frustrating experience and is NOT to be repeated. We finally tied up
to the mooring and went on shore to blow off some steam…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoUe689bUANVMS7BpR6VAL5Ss42XPAqeAm5bNqct3eP9ZTdwnFflClDXgLGVQz3i4rubM1QFLM8b5tcthdSfvUzfc4HCY6Y9Oci94KzOmxAJcmaLAeeE77ahhrXPaGtJab4Ue3UbJ0EnKC/s1600/IMG_2548+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoUe689bUANVMS7BpR6VAL5Ss42XPAqeAm5bNqct3eP9ZTdwnFflClDXgLGVQz3i4rubM1QFLM8b5tcthdSfvUzfc4HCY6Y9Oci94KzOmxAJcmaLAeeE77ahhrXPaGtJab4Ue3UbJ0EnKC/s1600/IMG_2548+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My first green juice in three months!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">There is not much to do in Opua. We came here because we
were told that quarantine is better equipped to handle the situation with Isabel,
and that turned out to be the case. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Opua
is also an ideal place to work on your boat. There are marine parts stores,
sail makers, welders, mechanics, etc… Other than that, there is a yacht club
were we could mingle with other cruisers, one cafe (which was actually
delicious), a beauty salon and a convenience store… Yep, that’s it. So, we
decided to rent a car and explore<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the other towns close to Opua. Once Theo got somewhat comfortable driving on the left
side of the road, we found a great farmer’s market. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was live music, avocados, mushrooms,
strawberries, green vegetables and we even had a green juice!!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love New Zealand…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We had been waiting for the paperwork and veterinarian
appointment for Isabel. It took a week to prepare, but finally on November
3<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">rd</span></sup>, the pet transport company got the okay to pick her up for her
flight home. This was melancholy for Theo and I. We were comfortable and happy
having Isabel with us, and to send her off on a flight across the world alone
was nerve wracking. They took her away in a van for the four hour drive to
Auckland (in the rain) and then she took the long flight to Los Angeles. We
were so relieved when we got the phone call from our son Jonathan saying that
she was safely home. Now it was time to move Et Voila to Marsden Cove Marina
where she will stay for a few months while we go home for the holidays. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>November 5 – 9, 2014<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<strong>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Marsden Cove Marina, New Zealand<o:p></o:p></span></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The sail to Marsden Cove was uneventful. Calm until the end,
as usual. We are now docked in our slip and have spent the days getting our
boat cleaned and ready to stay put for a while. It is a strange feeling for us.
Theo and I have completed our first season of sailing! We have our passports
and backpacks ready for our flight home to Los Angeles. I will be having my one
year follow up with my oncologist. I feel great and know he will have good news
for me. Theo will return to New Zealand in January to begin working on <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the long list of repairs needed for Et Voila.
I will join him in February and we will explore New Zealand by land for a few
months before we sail the Bay of Islands. Until then, Happy Holidays to
everyone. We hope you have enjoyed reading our blog so far. Wishing you good
health and happiness every day!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEified9gRN2S6vuzgmY-Oa85-_Yl1eKRBQAvxwOOG3mT80olpTINpyoXuoMVUTwrDZe4d3T81B3aQBnqru2Xah76NP2raMp79Ft8nI7C1CYmICDFYrPyoZ1-mf1EBdX9uyGUheNjc2xHXOV/s1600/IMG_2563+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEified9gRN2S6vuzgmY-Oa85-_Yl1eKRBQAvxwOOG3mT80olpTINpyoXuoMVUTwrDZe4d3T81B3aQBnqru2Xah76NP2raMp79Ft8nI7C1CYmICDFYrPyoZ1-mf1EBdX9uyGUheNjc2xHXOV/s1600/IMG_2563+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbBGtVxohCLjAOt7s_Pzw5Cyb-d4LqBC8lTgfW_SeBvlDzLzkxNRfCbPNNbFFdB2WvldXpjzuuiCrjjzaXZ80rUZi43nsfmKXljwUUudQsiSuwDsmqwm2jlq4486Vh_mmNbXOVsPvqXwwa/s1600/IMG_2571+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbBGtVxohCLjAOt7s_Pzw5Cyb-d4LqBC8lTgfW_SeBvlDzLzkxNRfCbPNNbFFdB2WvldXpjzuuiCrjjzaXZ80rUZi43nsfmKXljwUUudQsiSuwDsmqwm2jlq4486Vh_mmNbXOVsPvqXwwa/s1600/IMG_2571+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>REFLECTIONS ON BREAST CANCER – October 2014<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Just before Thanksgiving will be one year since I completed
treatment for breast cancer. Four months of chemotherapy, surgery and 6 weeks
of radiation. When I was first diagnosed, my doctor told me that I would never
fully forget that I had cancer, but someday it would be in the back of my
mind…not the main focus of my every waking moment. I was skeptical. I am not in
that place yet, but I understand what he meant. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Like many diseases, cancer can feel very isolating, so it
was so wonderful to see the global awareness of breast cancer in the month of
October. In Tonga there were pink ribbons and clothing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Back home in Orange County, our children Jonathan
and Stephanie and their friends Kathryn and Kevin walked for breast cancer
awareness… thank you! Here in New Zealand, there was the Paddle for Hope in
Auckland. Over one hundred paddle boarders in pink… I love it! As a breast
cancer survivor I would like to say “keep going”… It is very, very helpful.
Feeling the love and support makes us happy, and happiness is healing…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Before Theo and I left Catalina Island for the Marquesas, I
had my appointment with Dr. V (oncologist). He is a stoic man that hardly ever
smiles (unless you mention medical insurance), but his no nonsense disposition
makes me feel safe. He puts his hands on my shoulders, looks me in the eyes and tells me I am doing well. The
last time I saw him in April we did the usual blood work… etc. I told him we were about to sail our catamaran to Tahiti. He pulled up a chair and sat very close
to me and asked for details of the trip. When I was done he smiled and said,
“Enjoy, I can’t wait to hear about it”. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dr. V saved my life, one of many, and I remind
him of that every time I see him… It is because of him that I was able to sail
to New Zealand and appreciate every moment along the way.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">At the time of diagnosis and treatment, cancer dominates
your every move and moment. This dissipates with time. I will never feel it was a "gift" as some survivors say. If it was a gift , I want a gift receipt so I can return it ASAP! That being said, cancer is not always the end of the world... It could actually be the
beginning of a new one. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I now see breast cancer as an invitation to reevaluate my life. It has made everything crystal clear. I know who I love, I know who my friends are, and I know what I want and what I don't want. Easy...</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>LESSONS:<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-New Zealand has extreme weather. You can experience the
four seasons in one day here. Layer your clothing!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Do not anchor in a muddy bay with strong winds, get a
mooring instead.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Declare your bear repellent so they will give it back to
you before you leave the country.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>QUOTES:<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-“We all have that voice that tells us we are too old or too
busy to try something new. Now, for me, I have a new voice that says, “Why not?
Give it a go”. I feel more adventurous, not as cautious”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Breast Cancer Survivor<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-“This is my Journey and I am letting it happen. Whatever
will be, will be. I just need to go through this test. Now I only make short
term plans. Live for the moment, you don’t know what is around the corner.”
–Breast Cancer Survivor<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03471059532461159422noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3358276371486559811.post-40295976504105886542014-09-29T17:47:00.002-07:002014-10-13T20:12:46.867-07:00Maupihaa, Niue and Tonga<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>AUGUST 28, 2014<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>LEAVE BORA BORA FOR MAUPIHAA, FRENCH POLYNESIA</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p><br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We officially checked out of French Polynesia yesterday
because Bora is the last place we could do this. It is almost exactly four
months since we arrived in the harbor of Hiva Oa in the Marquesas, however we
have one more island to visit before we exit French Polynesia for good. We will
sail twenty hours to a place that I will describe as a sandbar with palm
trees…it is called Maupihaa. Theo and I debated whether or not to visit there
at all because the pass to enter is very narrow (and our catamaran is very wide)
with a strong current. In the end we decided it was worth a try…Et Voila!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Our overnight sail was lumpy and loud with two squalls…not
bad. We took one reef on the mainsail and that got us through just fine.
Around 8 o’clock in the morning we were four miles outside the pass. It was a
grey morning, but we had been told that the pass was “beautiful and flat”.
Thank goodness because we could not wait to anchor.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpC-7Hu1_K6Y8fl_73Gai06pG7NGxtDixjvNDXlkb147P0fHnwMbxt8K3202bvt8ICgcALEAQrwx7gZjP0_MVP4abI5wSoLayrhQZU7t3QCbfMpZwCAsUyjWwTZsw1eoGka0UsYZYes3iD/s1600/P1020882+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpC-7Hu1_K6Y8fl_73Gai06pG7NGxtDixjvNDXlkb147P0fHnwMbxt8K3202bvt8ICgcALEAQrwx7gZjP0_MVP4abI5wSoLayrhQZU7t3QCbfMpZwCAsUyjWwTZsw1eoGka0UsYZYes3iD/s1600/P1020882+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The crazy, narrow passage into Maupihaa</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Beautiful and flat?? I do not want to know what this pass is like
when it is rough and stormy (dark and stormy?). It was frightening and Theo was
white knuckling it the whole way through. Our catamaran is about 26 feet in
width and this pass did not leave room for ANY error. Thankfully, one of the
other boats anchored inside the lagoon offered to guide us in with their
dinghy. Once we finally entered, there were no markers. There were the usual uncharted reefs and
Bommies with 20 knot winds. Once we navigated the Bommies and anchored we were
very happy to see six boats that we knew from other locations during our
travels. We were greeted by them and made arrangements to have a bonfire on the
beach around 4 o’clock that evening. We talked for hours at the bonfire. Some
of the boats had been in Maupihaa for three weeks! Wow… they told us the family
(yes, one of the two or three) that lives here is very welcoming and fun to spend time with.
Later that evening, Theo and I talked about how important the people you meet
are to this whole cruising adventure. It is important to interact with the
people who live here and the people on the other boats that are sharing the
experience with you. Bora was pretty, but not too friendly (except for the
Matira Beach Restaurant). Apparently, other boats had fishing poles and other valuables stolen in Bora
as well. It ruins the place when this happens. We are so happy we came to
Maupihaa before leaving French Polynesia for good.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>AUGUST 29 – SEPTEMBER 9, 2014<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>MAUPIHAA</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We are anchored at the Southern end of the island because it
is more protected from the wind here. It is raining and... COLD! I have not been
cold for four months and I welcome it. Theo had made coffee, so I ran down to
our stateroom and grabbed a cashmere scarf that was a gift from Christina and a
grey beanie that was a good luck gift from Rosie. I cuddled up with Isabel and
drank my coffee while it rained around me and I was so happy. As I was sitting around doing nothing, Theo
was working on a project. He is constructing a new fishing reel using materials
he found on the beach last night. An Australian couple at the bonfire gave him
the idea. They had heard that our reels and poles were stolen, so they showed
us a man-made reel that was on their boat when they purchased it. Theo’s wheels
began turning immediately! He took a
plank of wood from a beaten up boat that he found on the beach, an old broomstick and some pipes as well… he
is obviously not one to give up! Once he completed the reel, we wound some line
onto it and attached a lure. We jumped in the dinghy and rode back and forth
along the reefs hoping there would be at least one fish to catch for lunch. We
caught a small grouper! I am so proud of my husband, but I have to wonder how
he will feel when we return home for the Holidays. He hardly wears a shirt or
proper shoes anymore. He now climbs trees, husks coconuts, and the other night while
we were eating a chicken dinner, he was hurling the bones from the cockpit
dining table into the water. As I am writing this he is urinating off the port
side of the boat. I am hoping he will snap out of it when we get back to Orange
County.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLEIfeUw6BV-TPSS-6Y1rFtlnfylJgJlhNbjr6qyseEYzpikZgcr0tUV9Xvyv19RXaDPOjXrv2DRxs5c_S0r7Fp_q8Lughfs21C-yuJSdrGpFcjZ3V0md3QS_BqWtj7bu4sCMOJr1gTy_H/s1600/P1030176+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLEIfeUw6BV-TPSS-6Y1rFtlnfylJgJlhNbjr6qyseEYzpikZgcr0tUV9Xvyv19RXaDPOjXrv2DRxs5c_S0r7Fp_q8Lughfs21C-yuJSdrGpFcjZ3V0md3QS_BqWtj7bu4sCMOJr1gTy_H/s1600/P1030176+(Copy).JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My happy island boy!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When the winds calmed down we moved further north to an
anchorage that was close to the family’s home. We were excited to meet them.
Theo and I loaded supplies that they might need into a bag and went onshore. We
brought pasta, crepes with Nutella, fishing lures, a new journal to use as a
guest book and dog food for their five dogs. Once onshore we were greeted by
the son, Hio, and his oldest sister named Faimano. They were all smiles and
welcomed us like we were old friends. They introduced us to their mother,
Adrienne, and their two other sisters, Puaiti and Karina. We were invited to
dinner for that evening and when I asked what I could prepare for them, the
girls giggled and said PASTA! I could do
that….this was going to be fun!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p><br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dinner was a fantastic time. Most of the boats from the
anchorage were there and everyone brought a different dish to share.
Unfortunately, Marcello, Adrienne’s husband was not there. He had not been
feeling well, so one of the boats that was visiting the island offered to take him to
Maupiti where there is a hospital. He
will stay there for a while. Once in Maupiti, the boat decided ( since they
were out anyway) to continue back to Bora for more supplies (Beer). Now that's
a beer run… an overnight sail! It was
wonderful getting to know Hio and his sisters. One night, during a dinner at their home, they were telling stories and
Hio held up his hand to show us his index finger which was wrapped in a
bandage. One of the other cruisers went on to explain what had happened to him.
Somehow Hio got a hold of an air gun and tried to make the barrel bore larger
to fit 22 caliber bullets. When he fired it, it exploded and made a hole in his
index finger. He could have lost his eyes and hands altogether, or worse.
Everyone scolded him and told him to NEVER try that again. Hio just gave
everyone his big smile and pretended to be blind and catching lobsters with his
feet…. his spirit is amazing, but that was a frightening story. He is a very
lucky young man.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBKbCVMNbrUj28Y-J6lYu1QWGDqybVgPa01ExsNNxyyW1kTnv7fFMgwd5SzoBKTZGtTgL_BnU-VLdBprHyviLjpZb3lqo7Y17z-r2c7QozdXARgkIaOWYgTtRW89rABSLk0zr0TjIm4WmZ/s1600/P1020875+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBKbCVMNbrUj28Y-J6lYu1QWGDqybVgPa01ExsNNxyyW1kTnv7fFMgwd5SzoBKTZGtTgL_BnU-VLdBprHyviLjpZb3lqo7Y17z-r2c7QozdXARgkIaOWYgTtRW89rABSLk0zr0TjIm4WmZ/s1600/P1020875+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dinner with Hio and his family</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The next day, Hio called Theo on the radio and asked him to
come to shore. When he arrived, Hio gave him a Coconut Crab and two lobsters
(he was not supposed to hunt with his injured finger). When he got back to Et Voila, Theo radioed
the anchorage to meet on the beach for a lobster and crab barbecue with Hio's family. This is what cruising is all about. The people
you meet make it so fun. I made more pasta and everyone else contributed their
favorite dish as well. One of our friends made a huge jug of something very
strong to drink. I did not taste it, but Theo said it was almost too potent to
swallow. I asked his wife what it was and she told me that it was pure grain
alcohol, but her husband did not dilute it enough tonight! She said, “He is a
chemist, we do it all the time”. Theo kept dousing the bonfire with his drink
so it would light up like a volcano… simple pleasures.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSMXQGMIp1qSyhvMTv7Ix1A1MSN7SYSfkHxwL5Y5_ZDy4WNR7pN7985U5xAMayglxm7XgI8OyAyCQ2s8QThuXCK0xoWrvVqymEmU6Vkvz0p4B-43zIaAwSDPs72SAdY7UGKY_P5_iyb2A3/s1600/P1020949+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSMXQGMIp1qSyhvMTv7Ix1A1MSN7SYSfkHxwL5Y5_ZDy4WNR7pN7985U5xAMayglxm7XgI8OyAyCQ2s8QThuXCK0xoWrvVqymEmU6Vkvz0p4B-43zIaAwSDPs72SAdY7UGKY_P5_iyb2A3/s1600/P1020949+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sara, Faimano, Puaiti and Adrienne</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaXFIFPL1SQSAKLU8am8pSQeny3DAu4s_YyvESAHrTYs6LH_2ivwdf6bQ4Zqutl4L6MbFbbCdtF7OvvprltSxBU2nXZNqZk7rMJMrE70lvOILAfh2h4Bq4Z7ckfSbRItyVKbxCDTZKJENd/s1600/P1020967+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaXFIFPL1SQSAKLU8am8pSQeny3DAu4s_YyvESAHrTYs6LH_2ivwdf6bQ4Zqutl4L6MbFbbCdtF7OvvprltSxBU2nXZNqZk7rMJMrE70lvOILAfh2h4Bq4Z7ckfSbRItyVKbxCDTZKJENd/s1600/P1020967+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hio, Theo, Gustof (the chemist) and Isabel at the bonfire</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsxcNKWOtZWaouf47lGl6ks6e2IyER09TC76Mktmqc47kIBexnSB0tGONv5YmDbxDpjV_Ug4a3OBITvvXpgOcOgPduYu-7cprnCx-pmICawD6RtX68tKZLUTseRBGFa2kz-wOwBiEti38F/s1600/P1020896+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsxcNKWOtZWaouf47lGl6ks6e2IyER09TC76Mktmqc47kIBexnSB0tGONv5YmDbxDpjV_Ug4a3OBITvvXpgOcOgPduYu-7cprnCx-pmICawD6RtX68tKZLUTseRBGFa2kz-wOwBiEti38F/s1600/P1020896+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hio and his Coconut Crab</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I spent a lot of that evening talking to Faimano and her
sisters. I asked how she learned English so well and she told me that she
taught herself using a dictionary. She spoke beautifully. While we were
talking, Theo walked by and the girls started giggling. They told me that
during the first few days of meeting us they could not remember Theo’s name, so
they nicknamed him Triple X (XXX?). Anyway, they explained that this was a movie
they really liked and he looked like the main character. I don’t know this
movie, but I am guessing that the main actor is bald… I’ll google it when I get
a chance. I asked Adrienne if she was
going to go to Maupiti to visit her husband in the hospital, but she just
scrunched up her face like there was a bad smell in the air. She said
“Maupiti….NO! Here”, and she pointed to the sand on the beach. This is her
island and she is very content. I asked them about Maupiti and Bora Bora. They
said that the people are not warm to them when they visit, so they do not like
it there. I understood very well.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Hio is also very content and proud of his island as well.
Theo and I were wondering why people leave Maupihaa at all. This IS paradise.
When we asked Hio, he said that most boats leave because they run out of
supplies and want to go get more. He also explained that everything you need to
survive on the island is on the island. You would need nothing from the
outside…and he means NOTHING. Not even clothes are a necessity for him. They
live with solar panels for energy, no generator. They do not have refrigeration
or a freezer. He has a VHF and an SSB radio (which had an ants nest
inside). Hio is so great. He can climb a 7.5 meter
coconut tree in 3 seconds…we saw him do it! He has been climbing since he was 6
years old. He walks around with a machete and cracks coconuts and cuts trees to
get fresh hearts of palm. He even took Theo and some other men spear fishing.
They caught 15 fish while they battled the frenzied sharks that were circling
them. He explained to Theo that once you spear the fish, make sure to hold it
high up out of the water, then slap the top of the water really hard with your
other hand to scare off the sharks. Hmmm. Theo was swatting them like flies
with his spear gun. In the end they had to get back on the dinghy quickly
because the sharks were jumping out of the water to get the fish on the
spear. I am very relieved I was not there to see it.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBIf0aI0bCFOKCMrLzZlBBxOQOxddinnRZoYLpubApUnGScYmu9_PJf905lUQ8ZE5qDN2f6NUFXYNIQo4xg5AOR8scmyHHwmeLe-_Cx2pDGWevOsZQZv5aCH5twoQfwvtzKztUAmU9ZpZ-/s1600/P1030088+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBIf0aI0bCFOKCMrLzZlBBxOQOxddinnRZoYLpubApUnGScYmu9_PJf905lUQ8ZE5qDN2f6NUFXYNIQo4xg5AOR8scmyHHwmeLe-_Cx2pDGWevOsZQZv5aCH5twoQfwvtzKztUAmU9ZpZ-/s1600/P1030088+(Copy).JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Three seconds!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Theo and I love to walk with Isabel along the beach. She
walks in the water so she can pounce at the various fish that she finds. She is
incredibly serious and focused about her hunting and can do it all day! Once, she saw a shark and tried to attack it. Thank goodness the shark swam away.
Isabel has no idea what she is dealing with. One morning we noticed that there
were tracks from the ocean, up the sand and into the bush. We followed them and
saw a turtle nest… sea turtles were nesting!
We decided to come back that evening after dinner and see if we could
spot one. We knew it was a long shot, but well worth a try. We went with two
other couples around 9 o’clock pm. About 10 minutes down the beach, just as we
turned a corner, we were shocked to see a giant green sea turtle just emerging from
the water! I will never forget the feeling I had when I saw her. I could not
believe it was really happening before our eyes. I was so, so grateful. We
watched in silence as she heaved her body up the sand. She was about 400
pounds, so this was a very difficult thing for her to do. She would go forward
a few times and then stop and rest. Just hearing her breathing was enough for
me. It was about half an hour before she
reached the bushes, then she proceeded to go pretty far in. Once she started
digging the sand where she wanted to lay her eggs, we all settled down on our
bellies to watch. She was about five feet away from us. She worked for another
half hour, but she hit some roots in the ground and decided to find another
spot to lay her eggs. She was working tirelessly. After a few hours, we
reluctantly decided to leave and let her finish in peace. I do not have any
photographs, because the flash on my camera would have spooked her. I will
never forget this experience…ever! The next morning, we jumped in the dinghy to
go find where she finally laid her eggs. She had dug two holes before she dug a
third to finally make her nest. She must have been working until the early
hours of the morning before she finished and returned back into the ocean. Incredible.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH8KPTbHU2CsWNKHa2cwt9xiLbEkzxnOhdKDV9pkMo3dmUOxVnp6GzxyTpey3VMQoOYO59pH0v4eZLq4Iu2WHni00GHkbGh_Js5vxlGNFRaruUzH3h3kXNVBxb6t7hQry1AzlAfWm-WJPc/s1600/P1030157+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH8KPTbHU2CsWNKHa2cwt9xiLbEkzxnOhdKDV9pkMo3dmUOxVnp6GzxyTpey3VMQoOYO59pH0v4eZLq4Iu2WHni00GHkbGh_Js5vxlGNFRaruUzH3h3kXNVBxb6t7hQry1AzlAfWm-WJPc/s1600/P1030157+(Copy).JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Turtle tracks emerging from the ocean and up the beach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcfxcVTl36Xt-SXiHDUJ5TmZllJw2WtCrtVvdtkkoJ0algUtdvDNWBLGIntJ2d__xPxjwOpHE0LvUNsAxNBa0yKacQG4W_FHgeaV481yZx6mfPa3g4_GDy_45HMyn82CAQdidXMBWo5_v3/s1600/P1030159+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcfxcVTl36Xt-SXiHDUJ5TmZllJw2WtCrtVvdtkkoJ0algUtdvDNWBLGIntJ2d__xPxjwOpHE0LvUNsAxNBa0yKacQG4W_FHgeaV481yZx6mfPa3g4_GDy_45HMyn82CAQdidXMBWo5_v3/s1600/P1030159+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our turtle's final nest as seen the next morning</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Later that day we
went snorkeling with most of the other
cruisers in the anchorage. There are remains of a wreck just outside the pass.
The SMS Seeadler was a 83.5 meter WWI sailing ship that crashed onto the reef on August 2 ,1917. We
got into our dinghies, dropped our anchors and dove in. It was truly
spectacular. I was swimming back to the dinghy when I heard what sounded like a
child crying. There were two young girls in our group so I thought something
might have happened to one of them. I popped my head up to look, but they were
swimming around without a care in the world. I kept swimming and continued to
hear the sound. I got out of the water and asked someone if they had heard it.
They said, “Yes, it is a whale”. A few
minutes later I saw one of the women pointing. I turned and saw a Humpback
Whale breach out of the water. He jumped three times before diving down again.
This place is magic.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNCd4Pollx8BBzOPRXEhrb4TVfP07fwzUGJTG6cu8AA5sahDuFMaZanrMOEm8azQ4F6J0Bh66rf3KNVAWAp3jD4qHKWY_4wHoEMbo86WgE_Cbvf9lEi0sbzpgvSZaN20vlufqUMptjtfBz/s1600/vlcsnap-2014-09-29-09h23m19s9+(Copy).png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNCd4Pollx8BBzOPRXEhrb4TVfP07fwzUGJTG6cu8AA5sahDuFMaZanrMOEm8azQ4F6J0Bh66rf3KNVAWAp3jD4qHKWY_4wHoEMbo86WgE_Cbvf9lEi0sbzpgvSZaN20vlufqUMptjtfBz/s1600/vlcsnap-2014-09-29-09h23m19s9+(Copy).png" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snorkeling at the Seeadler wreck</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWKT9RzQQqiHYytTVwzKHIf-aKIfinPPqGNHcwYmjshOMxF5l6WfgZ-x3lnTnlbM_vJCFf2V3rgrKU1Dm8zAhhAKW2amGJPcg3C7EJvP2HIR8snEcHZLrl8InENXrJoaUW-qx1qAN7UtW_/s1600/vlcsnap-2014-09-29-09h27m44s73+(Copy).png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWKT9RzQQqiHYytTVwzKHIf-aKIfinPPqGNHcwYmjshOMxF5l6WfgZ-x3lnTnlbM_vJCFf2V3rgrKU1Dm8zAhhAKW2amGJPcg3C7EJvP2HIR8snEcHZLrl8InENXrJoaUW-qx1qAN7UtW_/s1600/vlcsnap-2014-09-29-09h27m44s73+(Copy).png" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More remains of the Seeadler</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We decided that Maupihaa is where we wanted to spread
Mambo’s ashes. There could not be a more special place than this, so we walked
the beach until we found a spot that he would have loved and said goodbye
again. We miss him and we will miss this Island. It is so peaceful here and I
don’t know if we will ever visit again. I made one more bowl of pasta for the
girls and we gave Hio some of our steaks from the freezer. We said our goodbyes,
signed the guest book and left paradise.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LESSONS:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Sharks are scavengers…once something is wounded, you can
count on them to show up… just slap the water with your hand to scare them off.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Theo can build or fix just about anything.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-A whale’s song sounds like a child softly sobbing.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Don’t stand or sit under a coconut tree. I have mentioned
this before, but it should be repeated. One night at dinner on the beach I sat
down. Faimano looked at me and then looked up high in the air. I followed her
gaze... I was sitting under a coco tree full of ripe nuts. Fact: Every year about 150 people worldwide are killed by a falling coconut. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Do not play with guns.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Nothing is perfect. There are nonos in Maupihaa…little s#!*heads.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
QUOTES: “Every human being’s essential nature is perfect and
faultless, but after years of immersion in the world we easily forget our roots
and take on a counterfeit nature” – Lao-tzu<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“The nice thing about rain is that it always
stops…eventually” – Eeyore<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>SEPTEMBER 9 – 16, 2014<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Passage from Maupihaa to Niue</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We reluctantly left Maupihaa , but we feel very fortunate to
have been able to spend so much time there. We have shared so many precious
and unique experiences with other sailors, and in the process we have nurtured
new friendships. We are now sailing 915 nautical miles to Niue. We left
together with another boat and are trying to stay close, communicate by radio
and keep a watch on each other. So far, the wind is steady and we are sailing at
6+ knots. If the weather stays like this, we will arrive in Niue in one week. I
had an overwhelming feeling of relief when we exited the passage in Maupihaa
and raised our sails. I wasn’t sure what brought this on, but after thinking
about it for a while I understand why. We have had so much stress dodging dangerous
reefs in strong currents, watching out for Bommies and just trying not to hit
anything in general. There have been quite a few vessels that ended up on reefs
here just recently. Now that we are on the open ocean again, there is not much
to be concerned about… it is not likely we will hit anything for at least one
more week! This is a good feeling.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Long passages are boring. We read, talk, fish, cook, eat,
sleep, adjust sails, play with Isabel, and every once in a while we will clean
something. We alternate 3 hour watches, which means we don’t even sleep at the
same time while we are underway. I asked Theo the other day if he is bored of
my company. He paused (a bit too long in my opinion), but I am sure he realized
this was a dangerous question to answer and he wanted to say the right thing… if
possible. He finally said “No… I am not bored. It’s just that we are together
all the time, so we see and experience the same things. There isn't much to
report to each other at the end of the day”. This is true, but I do know one
thing that we both agree on. This would not be enjoyable if we didn't have each
other to share it with. That is what it’s all about… to be with someone you love
and not know what each day will bring, but go through the adventure together. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWgtMyhT0l4PZA_jSQXCCJaQkaOcskw7OZ3rz9LhggKkIwdLb-TMB_qSm34oTK68cOC0jlzDoOANA0azLFmgTjQSF_TnFAV_lh1pRfpneYpHP_50yw2y7nzC1SNE_b86TlfJqEyxPZtlXw/s1600/IMG_1646+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWgtMyhT0l4PZA_jSQXCCJaQkaOcskw7OZ3rz9LhggKkIwdLb-TMB_qSm34oTK68cOC0jlzDoOANA0azLFmgTjQSF_TnFAV_lh1pRfpneYpHP_50yw2y7nzC1SNE_b86TlfJqEyxPZtlXw/s1600/IMG_1646+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Isabel keeps Theo company while he rests after his night watch</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We put Theo’s handmade fishing reel in the water… It is now
known as the “Magic Reel”. He attaches it to a bungee cord and then places the
reel on a stern step. When the reel falls one step down, we know that we got a
bite. We caught a Wahoo and we were so excited… In the past we have caught Tuna,
Mahi and Bonito, but never a Wahoo! Later on we hooked another Mahi Mahi. We are so happy to be able to fish again!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2CoOeg0zKXLHJnB_wvLM4I-EGTbBjg3hn8uaKbmFIoIYMuPbHjcAUgNht2SHQZz2nY5RkEN9mLeO0f0_1wVAddSS_mkCnqUa8xhux07bIS7pKdWCXt5SGtBe98HHEYuViTeEw1aSHv_jP/s1600/IMG_1659+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2CoOeg0zKXLHJnB_wvLM4I-EGTbBjg3hn8uaKbmFIoIYMuPbHjcAUgNht2SHQZz2nY5RkEN9mLeO0f0_1wVAddSS_mkCnqUa8xhux07bIS7pKdWCXt5SGtBe98HHEYuViTeEw1aSHv_jP/s1600/IMG_1659+(Copy).JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The "magic reel" and a Wahoo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeDOf-yOzhw4ZvWmU4S0-fT2KWUiLbE8lMQR61o0wCl49a6SJ8UCzKpAmpGHH2UwhoQFKIjp15xiYPAgUc5mocFG3A2PipafEYCEWVKEgcfR3_QFOu5C3GJx8GwcCNJqgVCNwsWNkDdr63/s1600/IMG_2131+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeDOf-yOzhw4ZvWmU4S0-fT2KWUiLbE8lMQR61o0wCl49a6SJ8UCzKpAmpGHH2UwhoQFKIjp15xiYPAgUc5mocFG3A2PipafEYCEWVKEgcfR3_QFOu5C3GJx8GwcCNJqgVCNwsWNkDdr63/s1600/IMG_2131+(Copy).JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The "magic reel" and a Mahi Mahi</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
During the last few days of sailing the wind just stopped,
so we decided to motor until it picked up again. This has been such an unusual
passage for us. There has been no rain or squalls during the night and that is
a first. There was only one day that was a bit lumpy and uncomfortable, but
that is all. This has been our best sailing experience so far. We will arrive in Niue early in the morning on
September 16<sup>th</sup>. It will be our 25<sup>th</sup> wedding anniversary!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>SEPTEMBER 16 – 22, 2014<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>NIUE</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><o:p></o:p></b><br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Niue is affectionately referred to as “The Rock” and is one
of the largest coral islands in the world.
It has steep limestone cliffs along its coast, few beaches and no
harbor. On land the coral has produced many stunning caves, caverns and arches.
The surrounding ocean is crystal clear, with visibility up to 230 feet. Niue is an independent nation in free association with New
Zealand, so the inhabitants have dual citizenship. The languages spoken here
are English (YAY!!) and Niuean. The currency is the New Zealand dollar, but
there is no ATM in sight. Niue’s economy suffers from geographic isolation,
very few resources and a small population. To make matters worse, in 2004,
cyclone Heta hit Niue with 30 meter waves and winds that caused massive
destruction. Since then, many of the inhabitants have moved to New Zealand in search
for a better life. The population used to be around 2,500 and is now somewhere
in the 850 range. The people here are extremely kind and always smiling and
waving. There is no crime as far as we could tell. Cars are left with keys in
the ignition and no one seems to lock their homes. There is a jail here, but
there is nobody in it and the police station closes at 5 o’clock during the
week and all day on Sunday.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p><br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We moored our boat early in the morning and went to shore to
check in. We were greeted by a tall concrete wharf with a large, rusted hook to
attach to our dinghy and haul it up. We had never seen anything like this
before and were concerned, because our dinghy is around 400 pounds! We managed to raise it to the dock, and using
what looks like a huge spatula, scrape it up and drag it into a dinghy parking
spot. We had been told to wait at the
wharf and customs would meet us there. They finally arrived and we all sat at a
picnic table overlooking our boats and filled out the paperwork to officially
check us into Niue. This was such a relaxing experience and the customs
officers were so friendly, so I casually asked about bringing Isabel on shore. The officer said “ If we see her on shore we
will have no choice but to euthanize her.” Okay, this was no longer a nice man.
Just try to take my dog from me… you will have to put us both down! I want to
fly her home. This is getting crazy…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After customs we checked into the Niue Yacht Club which is a
room with a few tables and a well stocked library. They had Wi Fi (it was so slow…like
watching paint dry) and cold drinks. Theo and I are now NYC members and have a
card to prove it! It was our anniversary, but we were so tired that we just
went back to the boat and took a nap. We woke up around dinner time, made
popcorn, ate it, then went back to sleep. We were just happy to be in Niue
after one week on the ocean.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5vs2Tc-Vs7Zi5yegAXFGMK8eDTjSlDgTtEa-VKsxPVkoEOiChEyOJGyYAesr9myMUwLwKbG9SPuTkSXiqnuFT7tv5Jf3LKLG33wrSg0_hHh7uEpu1EBQguOLrwtguAKaGBCAyO4zJ37C0/s1600/IMG_1677+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5vs2Tc-Vs7Zi5yegAXFGMK8eDTjSlDgTtEa-VKsxPVkoEOiChEyOJGyYAesr9myMUwLwKbG9SPuTkSXiqnuFT7tv5Jf3LKLG33wrSg0_hHh7uEpu1EBQguOLrwtguAKaGBCAyO4zJ37C0/s1600/IMG_1677+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our very casual customs check in</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiysFOgjsPbERldylvvi5V9Hzs-bViHETP-LiKiObVFWDwyy0YceDZEJAyPVp867TJ55NsjAMr-LHTpzqqQWiDtbwzkqWgC8WZl-El_1EoIgsvpMD46CdH3h6B5udlFceNBdlX1tysqhm52/s1600/IMG_2005+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiysFOgjsPbERldylvvi5V9Hzs-bViHETP-LiKiObVFWDwyy0YceDZEJAyPVp867TJ55NsjAMr-LHTpzqqQWiDtbwzkqWgC8WZl-El_1EoIgsvpMD46CdH3h6B5udlFceNBdlX1tysqhm52/s1600/IMG_2005+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo scooping up our dinghy with the "spatula"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIsnfnwOU-LybQV2pSd69mrJwcPiuhjA5b5UQjZ9I6pfmGdMrLgU0Ie-mYSSUnxRN5A9tYqs9vdvCFm8O3L9VLyg5i6e58n9QgS_GPUtJWhWfssDWbgABgtVi5bagvenP-mMGcbhNhMe0B/s1600/IMG_2103+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIsnfnwOU-LybQV2pSd69mrJwcPiuhjA5b5UQjZ9I6pfmGdMrLgU0Ie-mYSSUnxRN5A9tYqs9vdvCFm8O3L9VLyg5i6e58n9QgS_GPUtJWhWfssDWbgABgtVi5bagvenP-mMGcbhNhMe0B/s1600/IMG_2103+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jack, Theo and Phil getting dancing lessons after a dinner buffet</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhccwbjjdVumZUxb1hIdkppGHkJTBzQhgsvuDTml2OqHV1en7JGalCFJEVFbAa0xUMMIc54KWTBUy-0oG9E2FiDaTXCDIk90zAuQ4z6MlHFON2bsuU39QC9eY4LbpbxTTLtF1P-qPpI3doY/s1600/IMG_2114+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhccwbjjdVumZUxb1hIdkppGHkJTBzQhgsvuDTml2OqHV1en7JGalCFJEVFbAa0xUMMIc54KWTBUy-0oG9E2FiDaTXCDIk90zAuQ4z6MlHFON2bsuU39QC9eY4LbpbxTTLtF1P-qPpI3doY/s1600/IMG_2114+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our cruising friends on Et Voila. Our get togethers are nicknamed "Whiskey and Weather" (A lot of whiskey and a little bit of discussion about upcoming weather conditions)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We rented a car for the next few days with our new friends
Phil and Sara from the sailing vessel Lochmarin. We let Phil drive since he is from England and accustomed to driving on the “wrong” side of the road.
Together we hiked, explored caves, swam in translucent pools of water and
lunched at various places around the island. Having a car here for three days
is ideal because there are so many stunning caves to explore and pools to swim
in. When we hiked to Togo Chasm, it was like being on another planet. Coral
spikes coming out of the earth like a dense forest. Eerie and unique…we had
never seen anything like it before. Niue now has one flight coming in from New
Zealand a week. Thankfully, this brings tourism to this gorgeous and friendly
atoll. It is a lovely spot and a must see if you are cruising.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSfMVL1nui3PRjfEvBlcjtY74yw8PVpNGCYBgrWska1z56xDy3A0SVAZn388qxnJNxfw0li0qMWS2Xlxn9mWz4r8EF3fBSohyt0Zon6UGGo8scrJ6HmWKATUMSFdxUeW0DsEWYQZiQ3kfd/s1600/IMG_1754+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSfMVL1nui3PRjfEvBlcjtY74yw8PVpNGCYBgrWska1z56xDy3A0SVAZn388qxnJNxfw0li0qMWS2Xlxn9mWz4r8EF3fBSohyt0Zon6UGGo8scrJ6HmWKATUMSFdxUeW0DsEWYQZiQ3kfd/s1600/IMG_1754+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The spectacular pools of Niue</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5CPhBvwvnO6fSEF6046HMgWUAY5e0UiZA1BId2nXObjdRTcbzyUJ2onbRqD5p48JxpE4NsHUOzdjdpGppGMRaDtLkJMnQ246PbqT5iZchUGme2_MA75sQxZPOv_2hWQ-yVo0ZY_Ojqm4j/s1600/IMG_1788+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5CPhBvwvnO6fSEF6046HMgWUAY5e0UiZA1BId2nXObjdRTcbzyUJ2onbRqD5p48JxpE4NsHUOzdjdpGppGMRaDtLkJMnQ246PbqT5iZchUGme2_MA75sQxZPOv_2hWQ-yVo0ZY_Ojqm4j/s1600/IMG_1788+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A tiny rock pool in the center of a coral platform during low tide</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEyGZCyAgKTGj5Sz09sW-CMC2LnsKl4HvtRClwfqqTsIaKJWIJahGv0CaWayh0wwyXObnv9wJaCB_80dIMmbG25sQgIpxtbQvzJ3quwq3HHEceKE5aMu5qHo9ov3faYcSJr9P70w03n9hQ/s1600/IMG_1881+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEyGZCyAgKTGj5Sz09sW-CMC2LnsKl4HvtRClwfqqTsIaKJWIJahGv0CaWayh0wwyXObnv9wJaCB_80dIMmbG25sQgIpxtbQvzJ3quwq3HHEceKE5aMu5qHo9ov3faYcSJr9P70w03n9hQ/s1600/IMG_1881+(Copy).JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Limu pools</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6z8dDZV_5kLtUrQzWVZ9rZrTXYHqybThSC5A366ZvnRmPun0h_gLBTPVxgHFFyZG1de6-LwTC2EnpGolL3crl5zc2v0D8GTnVmwCuLeez0FhzCwzCqCA-p80azsMbX24Zky3tD-9nfdKS/s1600/IMG_1819+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6z8dDZV_5kLtUrQzWVZ9rZrTXYHqybThSC5A366ZvnRmPun0h_gLBTPVxgHFFyZG1de6-LwTC2EnpGolL3crl5zc2v0D8GTnVmwCuLeez0FhzCwzCqCA-p80azsMbX24Zky3tD-9nfdKS/s1600/IMG_1819+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An immense cave </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWhAoewCT6PlEtB_2THZ9vJ_vtQwkjSfNtlVfDdcgOxeFaGrK9JeS3IDEf4fuaVr_pIYV9vlvnkp1lLq-JOfpvwoLIrbQaSd_gDaj08zG0eVJPNbHv_29LdonYQ7QFYp0EvVqSjIGGTVb4/s1600/IMG_1832+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWhAoewCT6PlEtB_2THZ9vJ_vtQwkjSfNtlVfDdcgOxeFaGrK9JeS3IDEf4fuaVr_pIYV9vlvnkp1lLq-JOfpvwoLIrbQaSd_gDaj08zG0eVJPNbHv_29LdonYQ7QFYp0EvVqSjIGGTVb4/s1600/IMG_1832+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The alien landscape of the Togo Chasm</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW_wPCHwDAOlaRbYEtNa87H7guJe-mxifmGJSIS8MWzfCtmbZw913uEaQne3aSzmHId9-9I5_dyY5dOYUttl3WwP1N4MqA0G6UCUuR8mwpOTqF00grZxItaF1raM8XIF_orHJrLJ4uwVPz/s1600/IMG_1847+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW_wPCHwDAOlaRbYEtNa87H7guJe-mxifmGJSIS8MWzfCtmbZw913uEaQne3aSzmHId9-9I5_dyY5dOYUttl3WwP1N4MqA0G6UCUuR8mwpOTqF00grZxItaF1raM8XIF_orHJrLJ4uwVPz/s1600/IMG_1847+(Copy).JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The only way in and out!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfIQs7rPsEq4mV8fmmb1cuiLba2QjO-dp0x6v7wIu10vfIJeQSd2aEuFxZxQwrTFuoU5zYuF-juug0mBN3pFUk-CPWIqXLkuMclhgwrPiXzseFVGvEUROFAgzrNF2GSbD-AHFVBBf2Erkn/s1600/IMG_1917+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfIQs7rPsEq4mV8fmmb1cuiLba2QjO-dp0x6v7wIu10vfIJeQSd2aEuFxZxQwrTFuoU5zYuF-juug0mBN3pFUk-CPWIqXLkuMclhgwrPiXzseFVGvEUROFAgzrNF2GSbD-AHFVBBf2Erkn/s1600/IMG_1917+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happiness!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We left Niue on Monday September 22<sup>nd</sup>. There is a
big swell coming in and the mooring has become a bit uncomfortable to stay… not
to mention that boarding our dinghy at the dock was becoming dangerous! We are
traveling for two days to Tonga. We have sailing vessels Lochmarin and Chara
close by. We have crossed the international dateline, so in a matter of seconds
we were one day ahead. Theo continues to catch fish with the magic reel and we
are very excited about our next destination…Tonga.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
QUOTES: “Do not anticipate trouble or worry about what may
never happen… keep in the sunlight.” – Benjamin Franklin<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
THE NIUEAN LANGUAGE:<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Most Niueans speak English, but it is always nice to know a
few phrases if you encounter the older generation…Also, it is great fun to sit with friends after a
cocktail and practice saying these phrases out loud.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Fakaalofa Atu! – Hello!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Fakaalofa Lahi Atu
- Great greetings to you<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Fakamolemole – Please<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Fakaue Lahi – Thank you<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Fakamolemole La – I’m sorry<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Kia Fakamonuina ma I he Atua a tautolu oti Tukulagi! – May
the Lord’s blessings be upon us all everlasting!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Fakaholo Fakasekiseki
h e po neke mapela e tau uga! – Be careful of Coconut Crabs
(Ugas) when driving at night!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>SEPTEMBER 25 - OCTOBER 14, 2014</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>TONGA</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was doing my watch while Theo got some much needed sleep.
It was 5 o’clock in the morning and pitch dark outside, but I knew we were
rapidly approaching the island on our Port side. I stared at the radar and
could see the huge red blob that was Tonga. I went outside, but only saw blackness.
This is a feeling that I do not care for… knowing there is land close by and not
being able to see it freaks me out. I made coffee and went up to the flying
bridge for a glimpse of anything at all. I could not wait to see just a pinch
of daylight so I could orient myself and relax. Finally there it was, just as
the radar had indicated, but I was happy to see it with my own eyes. I suppose
I still don’t have much faith in electronics.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tonga is the only island in the Pacific that was never
colonized. It is a Polynesian country of over 150 islands, but only 36 are
inhabited. The language is Tongan and English. Currency is the Pa’anga (of
which we have zero). With its numerous anchorages, clear water and Humpback
Whales… this is cruising paradise.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As I write this we are waiting for customs officers to clear
us into the country. So far two have come on board… two more to go. This is a
very strange experience for us. It is customary
to offer them refreshments and snacks, so I have hot tea, juice and cookies
on the dining table. So far they have helped themselves, but Theo and I noticed
that they just hang around and sit quietly, even after we have finished the
paperwork! We played this waiting game (If I wasn’t so tired, I would have
giggled) because we didn’t know what else to do. They didn’t talk, so we didn’t talk. Did they
have a late night? Are they resting on our boat before continuing back to work? Finally, one of the officers
said “So, Wanda, do you have any fish for me”? Oh really… he wanted a bribe! Okay, that is fine with me,
but seriously, I cannot read minds…especially a Tongan mind. I just arrived
after all! Thank goodness he came out and said what he wanted or he would have
hung around all day. I gave him what was left of our frozen Wahoo and he was
gone. Two more officers are coming on board. There goes our Mahi Mahi. What a
weird experience… welcome to Tonga!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The highlight of our sailing adventure so far has taken
place here in Tonga. We were fortunate enough to snorkel with Humpback Whales.
This was one of the most incredible moments of my life. Once we dove in, I
looked up and saw a male, female and her calf. They were just floating there
and I was completely mesmerized. They did not stay long because the role of the
male escort is to keep the female and calf safe and moving along… he is like a bodyguard
and will put himself in front of anything that is a potential problem. Then we
watched from the boat as one lone whale breached and frolicked about. It was
like he was doing a happy dance! At one point, he was floating on the surface
on his back and rocking side to side with his enormous flippers slapping the
water! We did not swim with him because he was a bit too playful. Next was a
magical encounter with a mother and 2-3 week old calf. Her head was underneath
the baby and gently nudging it to the surface for air. At one point, the mother
went down deeper with the baby, and as we watched on, the calf just floated to
the surface right in front of us. We felt so, so grateful to be with them and
share such a special moment. It was the best day ever.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3LeXwRoEv8OD6eibPLB91iAXI_TUlFMePM_34ZZ8fxs9jvXuKxacpnMAbXmJbuNqOZ1zf1JngbWEQ8pbX-w4oFBtBejnPZJGMjNOMkEnmFGojxv2yqPTFJ6lCjCNu2qquinCh3UEOMbds/s1600/IMG_2184+-2+(Copy).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3LeXwRoEv8OD6eibPLB91iAXI_TUlFMePM_34ZZ8fxs9jvXuKxacpnMAbXmJbuNqOZ1zf1JngbWEQ8pbX-w4oFBtBejnPZJGMjNOMkEnmFGojxv2yqPTFJ6lCjCNu2qquinCh3UEOMbds/s1600/IMG_2184+-2+(Copy).jpg" height="150" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The playful lone whale</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUSkzL8noW_jluZtDL6qE3mlD1MeyCEVUTtoxG2RbnXWzxGYPk9l4z3ApEkldK_yy9cpekHM9chYBjkEXjxJ58Pqs7e6F_eILnnBaqkzwpmbHNEtCsz8clSqvv_hvA9sN7SSQ2eFHW2P-R/s1600/IMG_2269+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUSkzL8noW_jluZtDL6qE3mlD1MeyCEVUTtoxG2RbnXWzxGYPk9l4z3ApEkldK_yy9cpekHM9chYBjkEXjxJ58Pqs7e6F_eILnnBaqkzwpmbHNEtCsz8clSqvv_hvA9sN7SSQ2eFHW2P-R/s1600/IMG_2269+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Humpback yoga?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW9YpvDmCnWpnQvLtgkK9BN1WMr5q5I2FpJDuK7Xm86i5q0F4cXq68_NWvtP5LPKZ0bI_FLdCb12HnGpJHX0_7ypECpr96oP9t3yHH4YYaWAmZjAu_JAW3l4B4QTzpYeGLxHa6CN6sWX2h/s1600/IMG_2306+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW9YpvDmCnWpnQvLtgkK9BN1WMr5q5I2FpJDuK7Xm86i5q0F4cXq68_NWvtP5LPKZ0bI_FLdCb12HnGpJHX0_7ypECpr96oP9t3yHH4YYaWAmZjAu_JAW3l4B4QTzpYeGLxHa6CN6sWX2h/s1600/IMG_2306+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The male escort and female diving deep</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8-maFmO0K6zkoLZGkyX4eFvGVCdE6BdHOe9XMBbCaqvUJK3wzCZgG4z7pICbVzBOH_krX9_BC5eGWXMtEiD6wEUM00uEOLp__JSBYgX2VW2Iuv1A87F_dUWl3udU1HRoaRtNTkNpk8VQV/s1600/vlcsnap-2014-09-29-09h38m11s39+(Copy).png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8-maFmO0K6zkoLZGkyX4eFvGVCdE6BdHOe9XMBbCaqvUJK3wzCZgG4z7pICbVzBOH_krX9_BC5eGWXMtEiD6wEUM00uEOLp__JSBYgX2VW2Iuv1A87F_dUWl3udU1HRoaRtNTkNpk8VQV/s1600/vlcsnap-2014-09-29-09h38m11s39+(Copy).png" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Male, female and calf</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWn4q_cp5XEBqV0xlb0DkSgZGKjZ0PKYiv2pSZTf2pj2X8cR9YzUyvp675fvV4qc3R9rZkBIaMJEpAQEaOgA3GaiwKMVU7W4A-fxl-gDBv05d2Mg9H48w2YnyQerhbkPSkHPI4vJVqn56O/s1600/vlcsnap-2014-09-29-10h03m40s233+(Copy).png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWn4q_cp5XEBqV0xlb0DkSgZGKjZ0PKYiv2pSZTf2pj2X8cR9YzUyvp675fvV4qc3R9rZkBIaMJEpAQEaOgA3GaiwKMVU7W4A-fxl-gDBv05d2Mg9H48w2YnyQerhbkPSkHPI4vJVqn56O/s1600/vlcsnap-2014-09-29-10h03m40s233+(Copy).png" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The mother with her 2 - 3 week old baby</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcSPETGHEcqUVZCBl4WH1svkwgbxqVDT7i6CAIUUpX1Jpnvl1hISmUTUMfn5BWsgVGR3AMWhJ-kCmvu4xyXoXvRidRiFp43PqEh62eDOsDNntxI0rtzY2BUGiBfqAx7tmO1CmO2rl8aK7S/s1600/vlcsnap-2014-09-29-10h07m03s130+(Copy).png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcSPETGHEcqUVZCBl4WH1svkwgbxqVDT7i6CAIUUpX1Jpnvl1hISmUTUMfn5BWsgVGR3AMWhJ-kCmvu4xyXoXvRidRiFp43PqEh62eDOsDNntxI0rtzY2BUGiBfqAx7tmO1CmO2rl8aK7S/s1600/vlcsnap-2014-09-29-10h07m03s130+(Copy).png" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We were so fortunate to see these breathtaking moments</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Saying goodbye</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The best day EVER!!!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I woke up to the church choir singing and chickens crowing.
I never know what I will hear in the morning. Sometimes it is dogs, goats,
birds or even crickets. We went to shore and the town was bustling with energy.
It was market day and the produce was a welcome sight. Theo and I have been
enjoying the wi-fi access here and the many shops and restaurants. Neiafu is
very cruiser friendly and even has a net in the morning informing us of all
that is happening during the week. There were Tongan feasts, sailboat races, visits
to local schools, cricket matches, a pub crawl and even a girl’s night out! We
had been enjoying it all, but after a while we decided to chill out and visit some
of the other many anchorages in the Vava'u Island group. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ6_zytyhwmeQOzuiTcH5puVuEtK9Usa4hXJILQbtsu20EG9NnkvpV1PhcOMSP7OaBn3M9mbsLDlxHZoeZcWoL_D74xRRT5x0UZ5qDn0dls0Ewzhfzw_DuExf8kf6HOHdQCh7QRdGH7skQ/s1600/IMG_20140926_112738+(Copy).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ6_zytyhwmeQOzuiTcH5puVuEtK9Usa4hXJILQbtsu20EG9NnkvpV1PhcOMSP7OaBn3M9mbsLDlxHZoeZcWoL_D74xRRT5x0UZ5qDn0dls0Ewzhfzw_DuExf8kf6HOHdQCh7QRdGH7skQ/s1600/IMG_20140926_112738+(Copy).jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entering the morning outdoor market</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh produce...Yay!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCw3W-EBm3G_vbDJul9kIdtz85WMtJWzzzwHfvrROi0wQBWGKBQJint5Al0gaItYgFF-nuMG7ONQo_Nu0cAiGDJakrJ6XygR8TjKXX2vRzl0mTD6Rno3BCxSMaLsZBUOHveIEUwPto9pKW/s1600/20140928_092036+(Copy).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCw3W-EBm3G_vbDJul9kIdtz85WMtJWzzzwHfvrROi0wQBWGKBQJint5Al0gaItYgFF-nuMG7ONQo_Nu0cAiGDJakrJ6XygR8TjKXX2vRzl0mTD6Rno3BCxSMaLsZBUOHveIEUwPto9pKW/s1600/20140928_092036+(Copy).jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The children are always ready to smile for a photo</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Girl's Night Out</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihjQqOo-BiKvkugaCoaM7NyOOC3ETjJwxQmvBHFFDxlOBAbvvWnYsZ2HtGImaCk1c6LgVbCvjEACNOZHelrCzyHG2uS5HN9VFlmGcfWuhVW-CXlYnpztVVjCgfL42N2VTsnnGboDAanxBi/s1600/IMG_2369+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihjQqOo-BiKvkugaCoaM7NyOOC3ETjJwxQmvBHFFDxlOBAbvvWnYsZ2HtGImaCk1c6LgVbCvjEACNOZHelrCzyHG2uS5HN9VFlmGcfWuhVW-CXlYnpztVVjCgfL42N2VTsnnGboDAanxBi/s1600/IMG_2369+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entering a school</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4UvC9hNiWbkDwhzfLcK3cuAlsGkGZtirBsqBKVs-M6ZdYwZRtB0bkm7bLxqO3IjdIsPX0RJjQXYrbB-9b4qEekGLP42_88z2Lo7PhlAQXG2zt2GMOuh2PrGrBG-i7YvA8PD0mmZ60w-W7/s1600/IMG_2404+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4UvC9hNiWbkDwhzfLcK3cuAlsGkGZtirBsqBKVs-M6ZdYwZRtB0bkm7bLxqO3IjdIsPX0RJjQXYrbB-9b4qEekGLP42_88z2Lo7PhlAQXG2zt2GMOuh2PrGrBG-i7YvA8PD0mmZ60w-W7/s1600/IMG_2404+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They performed for us...look at their costumes!</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJN0-314kEu20Mpj8HrTL_9BF-TVNUUhqOfFn3kLBHQYsEY08feHkO2EMgCmMES3aQ-l5KPXP681fbtdxtSnZjRNOz4gS2pDFOF_ecMEAeQbTXrCzz0sUlL8OjiqHJHe6k_lgOR8hnRw6Y/s1600/IMG_2424+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJN0-314kEu20Mpj8HrTL_9BF-TVNUUhqOfFn3kLBHQYsEY08feHkO2EMgCmMES3aQ-l5KPXP681fbtdxtSnZjRNOz4gS2pDFOF_ecMEAeQbTXrCzz0sUlL8OjiqHJHe6k_lgOR8hnRw6Y/s1600/IMG_2424+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1CVcM_RI77H2OckvbE-x9GV80NG2nxvcRkbRFB45V1WmEAG9YFD07N2LKAPgDZiakUcmfYZ4OntUHaFMFT5Na6CJSBoiAPT76xkFn69Xp1rPoyBIBk7kW39RqpGJ_xkR4biFaQe8aMC3N/s1600/IMG_2448+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1CVcM_RI77H2OckvbE-x9GV80NG2nxvcRkbRFB45V1WmEAG9YFD07N2LKAPgDZiakUcmfYZ4OntUHaFMFT5Na6CJSBoiAPT76xkFn69Xp1rPoyBIBk7kW39RqpGJ_xkR4biFaQe8aMC3N/s1600/IMG_2448+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dancing after the performance...the parents prepared an amazing buffet lunch for us.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe6OFdeNgKko_PtAK3GvFmkNJijzyp6D5aBR4abgEwyJrvXkkFAwPq5pXoquUpI2WfbsUJXXeM6Fu7WRK70-Drvkpc3dSqrt_2AFMMJXjNStXs8hjKNfjL5HXdx7StpSZnzMGD3TGj3v9s/s1600/IMG_20140926_123118+(Copy).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe6OFdeNgKko_PtAK3GvFmkNJijzyp6D5aBR4abgEwyJrvXkkFAwPq5pXoquUpI2WfbsUJXXeM6Fu7WRK70-Drvkpc3dSqrt_2AFMMJXjNStXs8hjKNfjL5HXdx7StpSZnzMGD3TGj3v9s/s1600/IMG_20140926_123118+(Copy).jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Such enthusiasm...I want some of their energy!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We anchored in a cove called the Blue Lagoon. The water is
of so many various depths that it is every shade of blue and light green that
you can imagine. Many boats do not stop here for the evening because it is not
well protected and a bit “rolly”. We stayed anyway because we were completely alone
and our location was spectacular! The next morning, I walked into the galley to
make coffee and realized that our boat was unusually still… much too stable in
fact. I glanced at the water outside and saw that there was not much of it. I
grabbed the portable depth gage and it read 3 feet. We were beached! I woke
Theo up and he was so excited… beaching the boat is an advantage of having a
catamaran, we just had never done it before ( Okay, we did it by accident, but
we were so happy)! Theo walked all around and under the boat to scrub the hulls…he
even changed the zincs. After lunch the tide came back in and we sailed away.
What a fun experience!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdLUnB5NQY_tIUyrZaQz1DO6MYBXEHwJfMHnN3ZF1dUJ2kogX5nsAi_GlDVqDusrSgLp7BYBMOy8oruMvCKHUFyvCOnv7tSXtuML4yZLzDlgRERBaK7QIO__ce0iX9VJ620fCRxcJK0vL8/s1600/DSC_0227+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdLUnB5NQY_tIUyrZaQz1DO6MYBXEHwJfMHnN3ZF1dUJ2kogX5nsAi_GlDVqDusrSgLp7BYBMOy8oruMvCKHUFyvCOnv7tSXtuML4yZLzDlgRERBaK7QIO__ce0iX9VJ620fCRxcJK0vL8/s1600/DSC_0227+(Copy).JPG" height="214" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Et Voila sailing...a great photo taken by Chara</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3SSzQiKa4wy_o6hJl0eyY8DfoOgyNohUcvFyJci9rNXPxVLOU_ZuwBL8r988dlrZbrj40D0kSJyBfBmmcLJjOi8ohF5RXL5kl-1VNtfSIrwvo2Ukhzn-SnJSVIJszCVgsosbBmdZFWT9M/s1600/IMG_2486+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3SSzQiKa4wy_o6hJl0eyY8DfoOgyNohUcvFyJci9rNXPxVLOU_ZuwBL8r988dlrZbrj40D0kSJyBfBmmcLJjOi8ohF5RXL5kl-1VNtfSIrwvo2Ukhzn-SnJSVIJszCVgsosbBmdZFWT9M/s1600/IMG_2486+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Blue Lagoon</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1zfp-oVitlGIeT-Suw_pEwTkA1QJTgWSej91-iwktBavjbeq1XJx8Kv9FyI-5gaY5nANWddVEqbRmf41klYqdU5TReMhSp5ik6G8_2CNqM-HvgTwWTwnl0-SeoGskpg6COVvlu_SgQS2J/s1600/IMG_2352+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1zfp-oVitlGIeT-Suw_pEwTkA1QJTgWSej91-iwktBavjbeq1XJx8Kv9FyI-5gaY5nANWddVEqbRmf41klYqdU5TReMhSp5ik6G8_2CNqM-HvgTwWTwnl0-SeoGskpg6COVvlu_SgQS2J/s1600/IMG_2352+(Copy).JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo scrubbing the hulls in 3 feet of water</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixwSxFdb0crlpYez7bqJqknTPjpSqLbxFRLF8P5mTSZhtUEEuV0W5BRueWH-Clh9gz0rrD4psUtt9iaONypU-X7ZWRMM2bmgmAEqv9BeL4chDZsVN_i4dm7GvvI-J47Dd_XU8tRzvP76rV/s1600/vlcsnap-2014-10-13-10h35m48s36.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixwSxFdb0crlpYez7bqJqknTPjpSqLbxFRLF8P5mTSZhtUEEuV0W5BRueWH-Clh9gz0rrD4psUtt9iaONypU-X7ZWRMM2bmgmAEqv9BeL4chDZsVN_i4dm7GvvI-J47Dd_XU8tRzvP76rV/s1600/vlcsnap-2014-10-13-10h35m48s36.png" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The boat was balanced on the keels... the rudders and saildrives were not touching</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We visited a few other anchorages and they are all beautiful
and relaxing. Our favorite was anchorage #11 which is Tapana Island. There is
not much there… a small floating houseboat called the Ark Gallery and two
restaurants. La Paella is a Spanish Tapas restaurant and it was highly
recommended to us, so we made reservations to go with our friends Bob and Joyce
from the sailboat Chara. The four of us walked up a trail and eventually saw
what looked like a house with tables set on an open patio. As we approached, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>we were welcomed by a very sweet dog and a
friendly goat. The atmosphere, food and company were unbeatable! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As we watched the sunset from our table, giant
fruit bats flew by our table and landed heavily in the trees surrounding the
restaurant. We enjoyed a fixed menu of never ending tapas as the dog slept
soundly by Bob’s feet. We were about to pay and roll ourselves down the dark trail
when the owner told us there was going to be musical entertainment in a few
moments. A group of men that had been smoking and talking in the corner (including
the cook) took their places in front of our table. There was a vocalist with
his guitar and the other two men were the keyboardist and percussionist. They
began playing and were really good!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">What happened next was surreal and I will do my best to
explain, but it is one of those times that you just have to be there. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As soon as the music started, the dog woke up
and started dancing around… he was scooting and twisting on his back with his
tongue hanging out! Just when we thought it couldn’t get any weirder, the goat
walked into the restaurant and stood staring at the musicians and the dog.
Joyce and Bob got up to slow dance to Hey Jude, but the goat started repeatedly
butting Bob in the leg with his head. This went on for a while… unfortunately,
the goat began eating the dried palm leaves that made up the walls of the restaurant,
so he was chased outside by the cook. It was an unforgettable time for all of
us. If you find yourself on Tapana Island in Tonga, this is not to be missed!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXTEYKSnkO9id6eAZlas3Um-zLbz-gSc0odfr3HNqrbzCY9UC4RCymg4TUT5Fau5946JONCnkfZ6lUB7CRATp2LvhX5hzhY-RjJcTLyQe3_CINzcgYPltROIlQs3taPAAp4B3WgJWyQA01/s1600/IMG_20141005_201028+(Copy).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXTEYKSnkO9id6eAZlas3Um-zLbz-gSc0odfr3HNqrbzCY9UC4RCymg4TUT5Fau5946JONCnkfZ6lUB7CRATp2LvhX5hzhY-RjJcTLyQe3_CINzcgYPltROIlQs3taPAAp4B3WgJWyQA01/s1600/IMG_20141005_201028+(Copy).jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A bit blurry, but here are the musicians, the dancing dog and the black and white goat on the left.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We also sailed to an anchorage called Port Mourelle on Kapa
Island. This was a calm anchorage with great water. We drove the dinghy to
Swallow’s Cave and snorkeled inside. It was the perfect all around place… until
it wasn’t. I was preparing dinner on the boat and got overheated by the stove.
I decided to jump in the water to cool off, but eventually I began feeling
electric shocks all over my body. I swam back quickly and climbed out. I looked
at Theo and told him what happened. My loving husband said, “Oh yeah, there are
jellyfish… but they are really small”. I was not happy… I was the opposite of
happy. I am tired of being stung by things!!! Now I have itchy, red, swollen
welts all over me. ENOUGH!!!! (Yes, I am complaining).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaUzIY-pQgyQkuVOGQJo_Ju1oN4Ke8DGYgJDR-ohuKQSBSdmWyJnzpOHrbQucHH3f76yBV-aspMzMmG3ErlI1Lo_uR7tNXsFL8tb2c3lTotnv0d9ITKrgDD8B9xWY9JgM3V5d5JV8X3d47/s1600/20141012_152646+(Copy).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaUzIY-pQgyQkuVOGQJo_Ju1oN4Ke8DGYgJDR-ohuKQSBSdmWyJnzpOHrbQucHH3f76yBV-aspMzMmG3ErlI1Lo_uR7tNXsFL8tb2c3lTotnv0d9ITKrgDD8B9xWY9JgM3V5d5JV8X3d47/s1600/20141012_152646+(Copy).jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Approaching Swallow's Cave</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-QGdWLBDdFGyOGucmuby2RicGXVGxLBhcXaCW_qmjJuxNL3vZJ2666NuapBFWzI7y_MX7VpRPLj-VK_7DvogI1VrJy03-hpjmu-y2rOsOJJbltlcOqc-Jmk3zmOpp3AThZkrGNNdYw7y_/s1600/vlcsnap-2014-10-13-10h42m18s26.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-QGdWLBDdFGyOGucmuby2RicGXVGxLBhcXaCW_qmjJuxNL3vZJ2666NuapBFWzI7y_MX7VpRPLj-VK_7DvogI1VrJy03-hpjmu-y2rOsOJJbltlcOqc-Jmk3zmOpp3AThZkrGNNdYw7y_/s1600/vlcsnap-2014-10-13-10h42m18s26.png" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snorkeling inside the cave</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimM2IQB1t9GwnDnCbhAeGhfJDGOKauh70EsZvMj8ADxsKQIdvc9gGki9dIRaWnbF2Uv-gHHF_qsV1cR6lpeLoIynzvQyB5aAo_gSP65s_dSTH4oG5fLLxdJYd3yPHBCsfmqYr4yAhHDPCj/s1600/IMG_0364+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimM2IQB1t9GwnDnCbhAeGhfJDGOKauh70EsZvMj8ADxsKQIdvc9gGki9dIRaWnbF2Uv-gHHF_qsV1cR6lpeLoIynzvQyB5aAo_gSP65s_dSTH4oG5fLLxdJYd3yPHBCsfmqYr4yAhHDPCj/s1600/IMG_0364+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sea Snake</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTfAosmZXZkP8QQjnwsCvBBo64aAjpGWFCNghietrvHe2XLNJy6IBlmYuv9_Mdbo96ZdJuOirkm3yBNgIAA1FVFSZfQzh-daTrz9nakQSOANdloAfOGkEksMTF99-AJpmr6SH2Mvozbc33/s1600/20141004_133423+(Copy).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTfAosmZXZkP8QQjnwsCvBBo64aAjpGWFCNghietrvHe2XLNJy6IBlmYuv9_Mdbo96ZdJuOirkm3yBNgIAA1FVFSZfQzh-daTrz9nakQSOANdloAfOGkEksMTF99-AJpmr6SH2Mvozbc33/s1600/20141004_133423+(Copy).jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo wearing his traditional Tongan "skirt"...Orange County, here we come!</td></tr>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We are <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>back at the
main port of Neiafu and we will be checking out of Tonga soon. As soon as we
see a good weather window, we will sail from here to New Zealand. We have a
slip reserved for Et Voila at Marsden Cove Marina. We have also made
arrangements with a pet transport agency to help us get Isabel back to Los
Angeles from New Zealand. We are taking it day by day and slowly everything is
falling into place. All is as it should be!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">LESSONS: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Look before you jump into the water.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span> <span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Goats, pigs and dogs… they all have their own unique
personalities. I can’t eat animals anymore.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span> <span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Always wait for good weather… there is no rush.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">QUOTES:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">“Size matters not” – Yoda</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">“The first 40 years of childhood are always the hardest” - Anonymous</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">“It is better to travel well than to arrive” - Buddha<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03471059532461159422noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3358276371486559811.post-45669119420062690592014-08-27T18:35:00.000-07:002015-01-03T17:09:34.696-08:00Tahiti, Moorea, Huahine, Tahaa, Bora Bora<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>AUGUST 6 - 10, 2014<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>PAPEETE, TAHITI</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It is so quiet on the boat. Theo and I are alone with
Isabel. We are tired, but need to clean up and do laundry. We are grateful to
be in Marina Taina because there are washers and a dryer here. We gathered all
of our sheets, blankets, etc… that needed to be washed and hauled them to the
machines. We remembered to bring coins, but we both forgot to bring detergent.
Luckily, someone had left some white powder which resembled detergent in the
room, so we used that. We had lunch at the Pink Coconut while we waited to put
our stuff in the dryer. When we went back to the laundry room, we realized that
the dryer had a broken door. We hauled the wet clothes and stuff back to Et
Voila’ to hang dry on the lifelines. When we did this we realized that the
white powder we had found left white splotches on everything… Oh well, at least
they smelled clean! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Next was the marine supply store downtown. Theo needed to
buy some items to make repairs and I was on the hunt for a fishing net (which
is remarkably difficult to find here) and rust dissolver. I found the rust
dissolver right away and was ecstatic… I couldn’t wait to try it out on my
knives! The only fishing net I found was big enough to scoop up a fish my size
or larger. I asked the gentleman that worked there if he had anything else, and
he showed me a long pole with a large hook on the end and a wooden club. If I was
alone here I would not be catching and killing fish, even if I have the
intention of eating them. I cannot kill anything. Anyway, no fishing net. <o:p></o:p></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjOPTAdS-nhYqGxBecULDfcOuFImHNvaQx9fJyzD0rli9PFdsd3yvRxXmjgTu1J2oBJepjvZBi-ExhmIQqkuR8RDj-UNfA1e7D5Hbl_C71QavHhJiEpvDuU4jwvkD4HYx30iKMFBATYTch/s1600/P1020477+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjOPTAdS-nhYqGxBecULDfcOuFImHNvaQx9fJyzD0rli9PFdsd3yvRxXmjgTu1J2oBJepjvZBi-ExhmIQqkuR8RDj-UNfA1e7D5Hbl_C71QavHhJiEpvDuU4jwvkD4HYx30iKMFBATYTch/s1600/P1020477+(Copy).JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Check out this net and lure!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTV00mLnIdaVTSzpggD5HZ42cLP_WJrg3CrMaOXJkk5XHTu_SVnNQq39zYAUwbpevxytNpi9YGC4qpgf-LViVWD4c7HPWt93ae6qlxKE4isF_CLYCu0Er8azhDdBeafQkEZtGbEKzsBLu8/s1600/P1020735+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTV00mLnIdaVTSzpggD5HZ42cLP_WJrg3CrMaOXJkk5XHTu_SVnNQq39zYAUwbpevxytNpi9YGC4qpgf-LViVWD4c7HPWt93ae6qlxKE4isF_CLYCu0Er8azhDdBeafQkEZtGbEKzsBLu8/s1600/P1020735+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is how the locals do it</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSGyH0di_s6mh-JHW-huq4q9klpHlmZHCwIZOo_R-citpr-ZC6EFRenUdCOGDkITWG34tdy9XFGd-LWp_R07coVs0PM95kqKxQ-NuCSf0D8KT3k6iTSWYWnK09pvJHajWj0YfniTTTrFEP/s1600/P1020744+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSGyH0di_s6mh-JHW-huq4q9klpHlmZHCwIZOo_R-citpr-ZC6EFRenUdCOGDkITWG34tdy9XFGd-LWp_R07coVs0PM95kqKxQ-NuCSf0D8KT3k6iTSWYWnK09pvJHajWj0YfniTTTrFEP/s1600/P1020744+(Copy).JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The local fisherman brought in their catch to be weighed</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Next were the wind generators. Theo has two that he wants to
have installed. We have solar panels on the boat, but it is not enough. No sun,
no charged batteries. No batteries, no refrigerator, etc. We can charge the
batteries with the generator but it is noisy and we try to avoid it. Theo had
called a company to install them last week, explaining that we were sailing out
of Tahiti on the 11th. They came out to measure… this was LAST WEEK. Theo has
been trying to call and get them to start the work. The guy finally calls back and says he would
like to return now to measure AGAIN. Why? We don’t know. He comes back and
measures AGAIN and tells us he can do the work tomorrow and that it will take
three days. Theo explained AGAIN that we were leaving Tahiti in two days and
could he please complete the work in that time frame. He said it was not
possible. No wind generators until New Zealand… it would have been nice.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We had received a phone call earlier in the day from
Jacques. He is Charlie’s best friend and he will be sailing with us towards
Bora Bora. Jacques was in Tahiti already with his wife, Kathrin, and wanted to
know if we would like to join them for dinner. We said yes, so they picked us
up at the marina and we drove downtown. Every night starting at 6 o’clock there
are food trucks by the main port. They serve almost every type of food here and
it is delicious! We feel we would have missed out if we did not experience it. There
are lots of families with children running about and there is usually live
music. We saw Chinese food, pizza, kabobs, seafood, fondue and fresh crepes.
Theo even found kangaroo on the menu. He ate it… of course. After dinner we
went for a stroll. It was an enjoyable, relaxing evening and we were very happy
to spend it getting to know Jacques and Kathrin.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The next day we continued to clean up. I was anxious and a
bit edgy. I felt a pull telling me that
I should be home with my family and friends. We have been in Papeete longer than
expected and I am sure once we begin sailing again my mood will improve. I am
doing my best. Theo was on the computer most of the day trying to store our
photos from the trip… all of our photographs are on his computer and an
external backup drive. I could feel he was a bit stressed out, so I just left
him to do his work. I was doing the dishes when he looked at me and said “I
just lost all the pictures. They are gone.” Okay, I had a meltdown and it was
not pretty. I was so upset and frustrated. All of our photographs!! It took a
while for me to calm down and, meanwhile, Theo was trying desperately to figure
out what had happened. Thank goodness he was eventually able to get them back
up. I know he will never tell me any bad news again unless he is absolutely
certain that it is true! Poor guy…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It is Sunday and Charlie, Jacques and Safar are on board. We
met Charlie three years ago at the Long Beach boat show. We purchased our boat
from him and remained friends. He has graciously included Theo on sailing trips
and racing events in the past. His most memorable trip was to the Bahamas on a
Lagoon 400. They flew there to sail a client’s boat to Florida and had a great
experience. Theo has learned a lot from
sailing with Charlie. Now he is here with his two friends to sail with us to
Bora Bora. Charlie and Jacques are originally from France and Safar is from
Syria. We have an international group! We will go to the grocery store to provision
the boat for our trip, return to the food trucks for dinner and then pull our
anchor up tomorrow morning. It is our last night in Tahiti. Theo and I are
ready.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioa-uan9YIm8QEk5AymtLGUZVSc2K6LIXCB7G6COGGT2GtXBJcG8GGTt__9W-P-L1WxIymEX042-lg8RzpjxGwjAso1X2Exj5bn2mLDLjo80VUU4B2_hnBr2x8gf9_HJ1prDAEK5E4Thy7/s1600/P1020488+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioa-uan9YIm8QEk5AymtLGUZVSc2K6LIXCB7G6COGGT2GtXBJcG8GGTt__9W-P-L1WxIymEX042-lg8RzpjxGwjAso1X2Exj5bn2mLDLjo80VUU4B2_hnBr2x8gf9_HJ1prDAEK5E4Thy7/s1600/P1020488+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The food truck scene in Papeete...Safar, me, Theo, Jacques, Kathrin and Charlie</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>AUGUST 11, 2014<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>MOOREA<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We are sailing to Moorea first and will spend one night. We anchored and went to snorkel with the rays
and sharks. I love watching people go in for the first time… so entertaining!
Charlie was so excited about the sharks and Safar (who cannot swim) got in as
well. I love that we were able to return to the stingrays one last time. Theo
kept saying “I will miss these guys!” He knew how to recognize them and understood
their individual personalities.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Afterward, Theo and I went back to the boat to rest while
the three boys went to shore to run some errands. When they returned, they had
fresh tuna to make sashimi. Apparently Jacques is very good at preparing fish,
so he went at it while I chopped and sliced whatever he needed to go with it.
Charlie began making cocktails with rum and juice (Safar nicknamed him
“Sir-Mix-A lot”) and then the Bob Marley tunes came on. It was fun and in the
end we had Sashimi, Poisson Cru, Carpaccio and wine. I was so full and happy… delicious
meal. I thought we were done… Charlie
started heating up some leftover pasta from the night before and opened a
bottle of something very strong called Arak (It is similar to the Greek Ouzo).
Okay, so we ate and drank that too. I thought we were done… Jacques went to the refrigerator and brought
out some French cheese with baguette. Of course, we had to have a special red
wine that complimented the cheese, so we ate and drank that too. I thought we
were done… Theo started cleaning and slicing fresh pineapple for dessert. I
could not eat one more bite. I was done… Fini! Lunch is not a game for the
French. It is taken very seriously… more seriously than even the Italians if
that is possible. It is an experience to be cherished and never rushed… I love
it, but unfortunately, my stomach does not.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_nnT0Bz2UJ_aEFYu88Qaldy2Bc_MWdy7N86eunJtZC3W0-J-CBDweKPVJ1PP5adYYLJ1PZ5in2iLRbYGJrvufwzS1bvM6jMKAldPuL7zWcZSBcCLGGG6UCtRWaoVnX8lXs5nPLH3TiLwe/s1600/IMG_3539+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_nnT0Bz2UJ_aEFYu88Qaldy2Bc_MWdy7N86eunJtZC3W0-J-CBDweKPVJ1PP5adYYLJ1PZ5in2iLRbYGJrvufwzS1bvM6jMKAldPuL7zWcZSBcCLGGG6UCtRWaoVnX8lXs5nPLH3TiLwe/s1600/IMG_3539+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jacques preparing our Tuna "appetizer"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIBfT0_pAYHmpeSH7jHLmuM-ax53B-f1w2Fiw4M5orMF160BIHqQpKrL7dahgzfCaCCxawVOxLt2T_nmZSt9496x-M8zIzQngHRw_jUtL3IANoiIDTkojwHS-hRJsTO7wEeKNIOoEflxCJ/s1600/IMG_3835+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIBfT0_pAYHmpeSH7jHLmuM-ax53B-f1w2Fiw4M5orMF160BIHqQpKrL7dahgzfCaCCxawVOxLt2T_nmZSt9496x-M8zIzQngHRw_jUtL3IANoiIDTkojwHS-hRJsTO7wEeKNIOoEflxCJ/s1600/IMG_3835+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Sir-Mix-A lot"</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFmsqOxCTKi4lsb708zOO2kZpDHdFjhhK9MLnReBrnwyi-sKKZc_g01djUIH5mN8AOpGXHCYaX4TmeP8OU-sNs2fNEBLyqFFbJvhEmE1F8BlxS2AiPQKwZXFv1mdmmKYfzf5yUIxbjI3vI/s1600/IMG_3544+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFmsqOxCTKi4lsb708zOO2kZpDHdFjhhK9MLnReBrnwyi-sKKZc_g01djUIH5mN8AOpGXHCYaX4TmeP8OU-sNs2fNEBLyqFFbJvhEmE1F8BlxS2AiPQKwZXFv1mdmmKYfzf5yUIxbjI3vI/s1600/IMG_3544+(Copy).JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Safar is ready to enjoy</td></tr>
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<b>AUGUST 12 – 14, 2014<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b> HUAHINE<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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We anchored in Avea Bay in Huahine. It is peaceful. There is
not a lot of tourism because it is difficult to get here. The islands between
Moorea and Bora Bora are not as well known, but they are lovely. The water is gorgeous and we enjoyed swimming,
snorkeling, kayaking and using the Polynesian Canoe. This is a nice place to
rest before sailing on and we are all very appreciative to be here. Each one of
us has experienced serious accidents, health issues, and lost friends too soon,
so when one of us says “Life is short”, we all dwell on that for a bit and
understand that we must enjoy every minute of every day. We are genuinely happy
to be where we are, and you will not hear anyone in this group dwell on the
past or complain about anything. We are
where we want to be. I love it.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6a3KnRF2JwuacAlpVqap49lni_v_Xo1aSCci2H2uOIURcBohlgp_cIaiyvgfUODEc68T2dr9Ot79NATgXEGwM94vEQ_22LOzyx1HdBcLLkOHmKLvvlMGqri5q1q3mFLAHfn1Xqso8Bzx_/s1600/IMG_1333+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6a3KnRF2JwuacAlpVqap49lni_v_Xo1aSCci2H2uOIURcBohlgp_cIaiyvgfUODEc68T2dr9Ot79NATgXEGwM94vEQ_22LOzyx1HdBcLLkOHmKLvvlMGqri5q1q3mFLAHfn1Xqso8Bzx_/s1600/IMG_1333+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jacques and Charlie were very happy to spend time together</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9prJKJ7ieGd09A9NKQO6rZ_-EDGGDcuuMZh8l_TT0tgi_yCOrJPXPXnYmURo2lsC1vUvjZD5KN4kainQsApqUVIWpKAXq4FmX2_mzWiKX5SIFdNSOQrAg9QqAQQHEDJ9_qKX_Yhlmju2u/s1600/IMG_1362+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9prJKJ7ieGd09A9NKQO6rZ_-EDGGDcuuMZh8l_TT0tgi_yCOrJPXPXnYmURo2lsC1vUvjZD5KN4kainQsApqUVIWpKAXq4FmX2_mzWiKX5SIFdNSOQrAg9QqAQQHEDJ9_qKX_Yhlmju2u/s1600/IMG_1362+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jacques trying out the Polynesian Canoe</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt2UDh50zjRpBARsJtMDbNcjU43qYgZAiiCybm5Sl_4f_t2TUh1QIoI11LYu7PsHN1W8PozqXHbQvNV4XsvvPWZm_p8kHSh2FG005F4Ifi_qUJU2-ByMzTnvE_cgvr6pBy-YbKQMffSxH6/s1600/IMG_1372+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt2UDh50zjRpBARsJtMDbNcjU43qYgZAiiCybm5Sl_4f_t2TUh1QIoI11LYu7PsHN1W8PozqXHbQvNV4XsvvPWZm_p8kHSh2FG005F4Ifi_qUJU2-ByMzTnvE_cgvr6pBy-YbKQMffSxH6/s1600/IMG_1372+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I really enjoyed swimming in Huahine</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHu62MxSneq2cypiwTyvCcZRFiZG0cmhOMRlAe3TJ0eJBWjNbuZAT5HtBxT3_uHHPeFMeh7y9tdS6aw3Fmc6d1owq1Df-g8PQm8PDMM4c_QLiqTEywFvwYoaXUc4LCsAClf59VURS4z9yD/s1600/IMG_1562+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHu62MxSneq2cypiwTyvCcZRFiZG0cmhOMRlAe3TJ0eJBWjNbuZAT5HtBxT3_uHHPeFMeh7y9tdS6aw3Fmc6d1owq1Df-g8PQm8PDMM4c_QLiqTEywFvwYoaXUc4LCsAClf59VURS4z9yD/s1600/IMG_1562+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our anchorage</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg622kvzE51eWqD4jt8QdaZiCTaZ0qWFqmYRJAWOPMgkkSkRn6fmIyyOfYxHlK70ldcvdu67yUyKbo-ZT8oGIBA42osX780_eqHj53SqA2EWUEZGLXfSW2rLDqB1KEwv1qQrmOcGH3tXtuZ/s1600/IMG_3988+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg622kvzE51eWqD4jt8QdaZiCTaZ0qWFqmYRJAWOPMgkkSkRn6fmIyyOfYxHlK70ldcvdu67yUyKbo-ZT8oGIBA42osX780_eqHj53SqA2EWUEZGLXfSW2rLDqB1KEwv1qQrmOcGH3tXtuZ/s1600/IMG_3988+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Et Voila' by night</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7D_e2WkwiXBupM_-HpgPnUzXkT9U88sEHkat72j540yjIP19qv5RHWOCOiK5lysfMb5-SNPXKPTjKRp9-2I7wjYnkhId08Fw4fLLgwo3_HZbh_nw5mYoJo2M854bpoVn4z1mROC_0-cf-/s1600/P1050834+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7D_e2WkwiXBupM_-HpgPnUzXkT9U88sEHkat72j540yjIP19qv5RHWOCOiK5lysfMb5-SNPXKPTjKRp9-2I7wjYnkhId08Fw4fLLgwo3_HZbh_nw5mYoJo2M854bpoVn4z1mROC_0-cf-/s1600/P1050834+(Copy).JPG" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYwPCeeVq7z_17Am_ognlSNCvu4DdAPkwnGMmMhyE4qknCbjJXib6pK-rSlFS3IwJU_YhgOM28408gR1GxOUJLZxeA5UJ5pcRofmjnUZcLkA-n3t8-k6FNu87tmSAw-sZvnquyjpu2LGB_/s1600/P1050945+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYwPCeeVq7z_17Am_ognlSNCvu4DdAPkwnGMmMhyE4qknCbjJXib6pK-rSlFS3IwJU_YhgOM28408gR1GxOUJLZxeA5UJ5pcRofmjnUZcLkA-n3t8-k6FNu87tmSAw-sZvnquyjpu2LGB_/s1600/P1050945+(Copy).JPG" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A sunset kayak with Isabel</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3VWkRiEeLWfHrv1pRipuTN-KuBnIhEJ3u_Fr3xCd6hDjSftr9syhZcPeysgmn3YmnN8A9DMXhcKFw2MzeJc_wE3RO5h1xpTAa_vlmvTz_eYm9_imiYxK9EHcmpJs3zz1UpDVLBDZ_4ihu/s1600/IMG_1420+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3VWkRiEeLWfHrv1pRipuTN-KuBnIhEJ3u_Fr3xCd6hDjSftr9syhZcPeysgmn3YmnN8A9DMXhcKFw2MzeJc_wE3RO5h1xpTAa_vlmvTz_eYm9_imiYxK9EHcmpJs3zz1UpDVLBDZ_4ihu/s1600/IMG_1420+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Good Night</td></tr>
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<b>AUGUST 14 – 16, 2014</b></div>
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<b><o:p></o:p></b><br />
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<b>TAHAA<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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We entered Tahaa through the Toahotu Pass and were welcomed
by beautiful weather and small islets. We anchored and went snorkeling
immediately. Once we arrived close to one of the motus, we received hard stares
from the people on it. I went to talk to them and they told me we had to pay to
step foot on their private island. We just wanted to swim… so that is what we
did… Oh brother! No warm and fuzzy feelings so far. Now the boys are dreaming
about buying a private island and opening a bar with fish tacos on the menu,
good music and friendly service. People around here would certainly pay for
that! I hope they really do it…</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgswl1Zm5JXI_VM-scp7DafSzWt4W5H7io3Brzd2ZPco6jNlKp3OXqRgAQistqiecPkMZ6jhKq7ERNVLXkQzKh0CMuc-Jhew5WBfXrMh3QLc06cA0wQNfxg5Obyc5mFHZNQvgg_KYM6rlXd/s1600/IMG_1407+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgswl1Zm5JXI_VM-scp7DafSzWt4W5H7io3Brzd2ZPco6jNlKp3OXqRgAQistqiecPkMZ6jhKq7ERNVLXkQzKh0CMuc-Jhew5WBfXrMh3QLc06cA0wQNfxg5Obyc5mFHZNQvgg_KYM6rlXd/s1600/IMG_1407+(Copy).JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The beautiful but unwelcoming islet</td></tr>
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After snorkeling, we moved to Haamene Bay. This is a very
deep Bay and we motored two miles before we anchored. It is very beautiful and
picturesque here. From our boat we see two very small motus in the center of
the bay and children playing basketball on shore. There is only one other
sailboat here with a couple and their toddler. Charlie and Theo went to check
out the situation on shore. There was no restaurant and one market. The woman
at the market told them that if we wanted fresh baguettes in the morning, we
would have to wake up at 6 o’clock a.m. because all bread is gone by 7 o’clock.
We did wake up on time and it was raining. Charlie, Theo and I put on our rain
jackets and went. Fresh hot baguettes with jam for breakfast! It was great.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLDoD8Y-CCKERUQ7Axy7GVHnpqjrZ3lNPj1z2IWExqRH_Ys0lSsv2HhxnP5JX-TMOvCl2cRv6yYwwWngCeGnSJauYj7KZnXPtLgRXUQRhKkDXGdZkQDZ_19QjA1AZrlHmGDs8qPcQc38_z/s1600/P1020529+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLDoD8Y-CCKERUQ7Axy7GVHnpqjrZ3lNPj1z2IWExqRH_Ys0lSsv2HhxnP5JX-TMOvCl2cRv6yYwwWngCeGnSJauYj7KZnXPtLgRXUQRhKkDXGdZkQDZ_19QjA1AZrlHmGDs8qPcQc38_z/s1600/P1020529+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Haamene Bay anchorage</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyutIrEoACzWTTPxeTSWN9U2PCMa-UPoiNvQWoLEZdv1mxjGV2xhsM3U_9qfQA6eqZZfBFan35kYOCTOn5hD93sqhr7ViefXJbbyNrZovfQQwTok8jnfbXsABPD2sdDgzFKdLEKDTIG9fA/s1600/P1020530+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyutIrEoACzWTTPxeTSWN9U2PCMa-UPoiNvQWoLEZdv1mxjGV2xhsM3U_9qfQA6eqZZfBFan35kYOCTOn5hD93sqhr7ViefXJbbyNrZovfQQwTok8jnfbXsABPD2sdDgzFKdLEKDTIG9fA/s1600/P1020530+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shopping in the rain for fresh baquettes</td></tr>
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We left Haamene Bay and motored to a beautiful little motu.
The only thing you will find here is a resort called Vahine Island. You MUST
visit this place… do what you have to do. Start playing the lottery, arrange
for someone to watch your children, sell something, whatever… just get here! It is a 23 acre
private island with gorgeous landscaping, coconut groves and a white sand
beach. There are six bungalows nestled
on the island and three overwater bungalows on the lagoon. It is breathtaking and very special. Unfortunately,
we had not informed ourselves well about this place. Apparently they only have
one table in the restaurant that is available for cruisers and it was already
booked. The rest of the tables are for hotel guests only. The reason is food
supply. So, we could not stay for lunch, but the staff who worked there were
very welcoming. We were able to enjoy the island and have appetizers and
drinks. We were all very happy. Even Isabel had the best day of her life there.
She swam with the fish by the dock for hours! This is paradise… If you come
here by boat, call the hotel by VHF channel 16 and reserve THE table! Do not
miss this.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihtP-2CODvgU8j0YnxMNJ9RGTX7Pd7heQ6cbvcuPAF8b16DP9Ah58jrMnuElUOHFT1u-_gwwToRVWDIry4tE4SMQCmqHi6-CxAuBbMB1frts5WNztnXXcsCr9ZFnspw-MRmtTvUqy6h67t/s1600/P1020608+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihtP-2CODvgU8j0YnxMNJ9RGTX7Pd7heQ6cbvcuPAF8b16DP9Ah58jrMnuElUOHFT1u-_gwwToRVWDIry4tE4SMQCmqHi6-CxAuBbMB1frts5WNztnXXcsCr9ZFnspw-MRmtTvUqy6h67t/s1600/P1020608+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Do what you have to do...spend some time here</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5QnRRLYBFuk4dgolOKQxpEROCM_ULXH7_DOrqSIj3omMZoRdI6TW7bj_-78AkZ53KuyH7upNtAzlJoExDaZiVLWzmSDUwD8An3c-bDc0w4PJF1IICV1Gxd3asudKdF11OyUarwZCeknh8/s1600/P1020537+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5QnRRLYBFuk4dgolOKQxpEROCM_ULXH7_DOrqSIj3omMZoRdI6TW7bj_-78AkZ53KuyH7upNtAzlJoExDaZiVLWzmSDUwD8An3c-bDc0w4PJF1IICV1Gxd3asudKdF11OyUarwZCeknh8/s1600/P1020537+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The three overwater bungalows</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8cu-BWv2pO9s68Ow8ixSfLtMzmXItEdhJ_BoF-scX-dYqC1WelZ3GDZ-QXSSv55SNmt_nQd0WWBFZ6Xhi-HkLNlZkbOCpCBal2NPdL3VuFu9g2dgjfedAhY5Bl5ehVGFRZfWb6JMGhDAD/s1600/P1020598+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8cu-BWv2pO9s68Ow8ixSfLtMzmXItEdhJ_BoF-scX-dYqC1WelZ3GDZ-QXSSv55SNmt_nQd0WWBFZ6Xhi-HkLNlZkbOCpCBal2NPdL3VuFu9g2dgjfedAhY5Bl5ehVGFRZfWb6JMGhDAD/s1600/P1020598+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT02ININ6wnubQI1uyVrKLiAPqqDcL7zTFZLB4rrIPfihRQOZLECYJGkQo-XokFbQyIagzOb3ISm4eznY8Yhmul71JastdZf7X_QExLNZFilufO_F43VbD5hvp_Gs70-I_Ys5f7KhhRfjR/s1600/P1020617+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT02ININ6wnubQI1uyVrKLiAPqqDcL7zTFZLB4rrIPfihRQOZLECYJGkQo-XokFbQyIagzOb3ISm4eznY8Yhmul71JastdZf7X_QExLNZFilufO_F43VbD5hvp_Gs70-I_Ys5f7KhhRfjR/s1600/P1020617+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The "Boys"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx5QWTLZu5cbIXH3eKt3_0GLtzp1Y-DnNS6glRDlMqEqxM-JubiEwgsOgdw6WFcV7KUAmC7XYVOHfljP5RpUdpT9R-cbqQX_xZzZiScsLnAq9mCX1eO0h6VP4XHdUBy0K6qRo36TreiA5D/s1600/P1020673+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx5QWTLZu5cbIXH3eKt3_0GLtzp1Y-DnNS6glRDlMqEqxM-JubiEwgsOgdw6WFcV7KUAmC7XYVOHfljP5RpUdpT9R-cbqQX_xZzZiScsLnAq9mCX1eO0h6VP4XHdUBy0K6qRo36TreiA5D/s1600/P1020673+(Copy).JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo babysitting Isabel</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2ZqYUMygAhbQ3I4Zst06-Lzr7u0o2RJEzLi1KLoDuaYHJaiiZ9MQ4zywPoSbLT9sOkkLoodWEPr6L1tniBiBi8WhNx2H43sBvmXVFJBCuqK-R-C3SG2nhR0zNfVN5e2vkn9VpMhQQ6luA/s1600/P1020600+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2ZqYUMygAhbQ3I4Zst06-Lzr7u0o2RJEzLi1KLoDuaYHJaiiZ9MQ4zywPoSbLT9sOkkLoodWEPr6L1tniBiBi8WhNx2H43sBvmXVFJBCuqK-R-C3SG2nhR0zNfVN5e2vkn9VpMhQQ6luA/s1600/P1020600+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Isabel's best day ever</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We reluctantly left Vahine Island and motored to Islet
TauTau. I am not sure what happened, but we were towing our dinghy behind Et
Voila and it came loose and drifted away… twice!! Theo had tied a knot that he
was certain would not slip, but it did. He will be teased about this for a very
long time (not by me). The boys enjoy giving each other a hard time. Safar is
always picked on because he doesn’t swim and insists that there are big waves
at night while we are sleeping. He also brought a pair of red sandals that
bleed red whenever they get wet… which is most of the time. His feet are always
red and he has to keep the sandals in a bucket outside! He has a great sense of
humor about it. We dropped anchor and made pasta for dinner. Charlie loves
pasta! When I woke up the next morning it was raining, so I quickly put on my
bathing suit and sat in the rain with Isabel in my lap. It felt amazing. I love
the rain and of course there is always a beautiful rainbow once it stops.
Sailing on to Bora Bora.<o:p></o:p><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOplKnC-le64sqp26AizwAYkIwJgQQB_pzMkEJsC3lrH3CGzoXMK4zVH5DRaIBnVOpfsTpA4mi-GNXRIFwKfAmmHdniyrKqIqg-civnbTnSqE5S_Kj5tyGPt01GNbaUXd1BJ73a-K150CP/s1600/IMG_1432+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOplKnC-le64sqp26AizwAYkIwJgQQB_pzMkEJsC3lrH3CGzoXMK4zVH5DRaIBnVOpfsTpA4mi-GNXRIFwKfAmmHdniyrKqIqg-civnbTnSqE5S_Kj5tyGPt01GNbaUXd1BJ73a-K150CP/s1600/IMG_1432+(Copy).JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our dinghy floating away</td></tr>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>AUGUST 16 - 28, 2014<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>BORA BORA<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The sail to Bora Bora was calm and uneventful. We fished on
the way and lost another lure… we are frustrated that we are not catching anything.
Theo is remaking the lures using steel lines to make them stronger. Anyway, we
experienced only one squall and the sail took 4 hours. Not bad. Just before we
arrived, we decided to make smoothies to use up our pineapples. I made them
tasty and healthy, but when I served them to the boys, “Sir-Mix-A lot” quickly
added rum and they drank them down… Oh well, I tried.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am very excited to see Bora. I have always imagined it to
be a magical island. It has been called one of the most beautiful islands in
the world. I am so excited…I hope I haven’t built a picture in my imagination
that is too unrealistic. Once we arrived, we moored outside the Bora Bora Yacht
Club. It was raining again, so we put on our rain jackets and went to have
dinner. I don’t really understand why it is called a yacht club... it is
really a hotel. We were seated inside because of the continuing rain. The boys
have been giving Theo a hard time about our fish getting away. He is so
frustrated! Anyway, as we were talking about this, a young Aussie from the next
table came over and said that he had overheard our conversation. He had just
caught a big Mahi Mahi earlier in the day and did not have a freezer… would we
like some? Absolutely! When we went back to the boat later that evening, he
came over with the more than half of the fish. Isabel got so excited she fell
into the water. We were appreciative and asked him if he needed anything
from us. All he wanted were some limes… so we gave him limes. We sat on the
stern to cut the fish into fillets and freeze it for tomorrow. It was very fresh
and we were grateful.<o:p></o:p><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD3-a4qoz_Fj68kd5TYDyCV3KwM1UU6HTKSo4TPehqZKt2xKi6P3o-w_ndyAIyKJWQPQJ1Obx3hNQLBSE2MpgMiLopQdfDA4rx1HE9PAhPW81QCRPvk19lez5ZcmbnVGhkK-jzeRxDcHk5/s1600/IMG_3881+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD3-a4qoz_Fj68kd5TYDyCV3KwM1UU6HTKSo4TPehqZKt2xKi6P3o-w_ndyAIyKJWQPQJ1Obx3hNQLBSE2MpgMiLopQdfDA4rx1HE9PAhPW81QCRPvk19lez5ZcmbnVGhkK-jzeRxDcHk5/s1600/IMG_3881+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Approaching the Bora Bora Yacht Club</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8crpT_JChdQkCRcbnOyWmecZ5Upuf_U1giqpUPCMHiyQDXtihRKyPpiD3B2qtnuu24BRSPoS06Ujq8Kd2tt4K1llW2NTfSCPjqQStmWb_k9Rh5ZEUtEb_WgSMrhQJzxbwvjgvCN8fajPg/s1600/IMG_3802+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8crpT_JChdQkCRcbnOyWmecZ5Upuf_U1giqpUPCMHiyQDXtihRKyPpiD3B2qtnuu24BRSPoS06Ujq8Kd2tt4K1llW2NTfSCPjqQStmWb_k9Rh5ZEUtEb_WgSMrhQJzxbwvjgvCN8fajPg/s1600/IMG_3802+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just another day at the office</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlAi2lOglfVaYc8_5JVJBHDkc7Yd7QkrVg6-usMHsirEqIrPdQveG3JRiK7cpBC3D5h7MZH4hmUaQ8Jyy4JTONh7HKRd5-U2i_AxrXBxsHA_9hGF4K7Zs635fQEHHlzHDM5twoaNV4O2vN/s1600/IMG_3716+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlAi2lOglfVaYc8_5JVJBHDkc7Yd7QkrVg6-usMHsirEqIrPdQveG3JRiK7cpBC3D5h7MZH4hmUaQ8Jyy4JTONh7HKRd5-U2i_AxrXBxsHA_9hGF4K7Zs635fQEHHlzHDM5twoaNV4O2vN/s1600/IMG_3716+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes!!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ8vJb8q4p-KGFrcOIpbqirxOKwoBvipv00HUZUoq64klN8EjllPBuTRIpDbiCSStay-C-r2h1AMQAyc0Au-qXT562ecGqWdrGPaBH_624m1LZJlgc3uerntX4AXnkp8TocLhyJ2rFbLhf/s1600/IMG_1483+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ8vJb8q4p-KGFrcOIpbqirxOKwoBvipv00HUZUoq64klN8EjllPBuTRIpDbiCSStay-C-r2h1AMQAyc0Au-qXT562ecGqWdrGPaBH_624m1LZJlgc3uerntX4AXnkp8TocLhyJ2rFbLhf/s1600/IMG_1483+(Copy).JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Mahi given to us by the young Aussie</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrTLX5rdqC20ByN-jbXvvQb3q3rkDD0_IJtZt4go5ed4Ky94iHjEgSAfef2qcbnbHFiwz1HfG1CUxHB8OdNnDULw4NAg3Zu0epq4r0kwNO0zxooRfGBwW_aKVk7K8I-4HIfSePsSPDUI5G/s1600/IMG_1484+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrTLX5rdqC20ByN-jbXvvQb3q3rkDD0_IJtZt4go5ed4Ky94iHjEgSAfef2qcbnbHFiwz1HfG1CUxHB8OdNnDULw4NAg3Zu0epq4r0kwNO0zxooRfGBwW_aKVk7K8I-4HIfSePsSPDUI5G/s1600/IMG_1484+(Copy).JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fillet of Mahi by night</td></tr>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
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<div class="MsoNormal">
We woke up, had coffee and motored to Matira Beach where the
snorkeling is supposed to be amazing. There were Bommies everywhere and by past
experience we have learned not to trust the charts, so it was nerve-racking.
Theo eventually asked Charlie and Jacques to go ahead in the dinghy and check
the depth for him and Safar and I were on the bow watching. It was so
stressful. You can be in 100 feet of water and in a few seconds be in 15 feet
of water. I realized at a certain point
that I was holding my breath! We hear stories about boats hitting reefs all the
time and until sailing in French Polynesia, I could not imagine that ever
happening to us… now I can. It can happen to anyone. We eventually made it through
and anchored. What a huge relief.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijkd3WZdKH_8n9vT_1TTOH5FvPOYBTbL9zUPwA8Q4_UUoAvfovi9bUIma2PVdt9wmBpifBow2iRr95NLTD5-5vWUTJMInV3ufTLc4z3O5gyuuDwf6FC9J-BAtb1GCoViUzQE6Fhg3sPHq7/s1600/IMG_1514+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijkd3WZdKH_8n9vT_1TTOH5FvPOYBTbL9zUPwA8Q4_UUoAvfovi9bUIma2PVdt9wmBpifBow2iRr95NLTD5-5vWUTJMInV3ufTLc4z3O5gyuuDwf6FC9J-BAtb1GCoViUzQE6Fhg3sPHq7/s1600/IMG_1514+(Copy).JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo and Isabel looking for Bommies</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Charlie and Jacques checking the depth of the water</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg50uxVnR7eHqADlbapYYiJxgMDtAjfvqeFACLOeaEkXacA0pd2d8VrfdNDoAEOziPjxsIkUrPpSCRkN-3VPHrbBIqnOl3YgWWrbSrqA0XonzZnm9zbu-daXEONcgMCEWh1g-kYL8h9hKKA/s1600/IMG_1470+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg50uxVnR7eHqADlbapYYiJxgMDtAjfvqeFACLOeaEkXacA0pd2d8VrfdNDoAEOziPjxsIkUrPpSCRkN-3VPHrbBIqnOl3YgWWrbSrqA0XonzZnm9zbu-daXEONcgMCEWh1g-kYL8h9hKKA/s1600/IMG_1470+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Uncle Safar</td></tr>
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We took the dinghy to a place called the coral gardens. The
snorkeling is truly remarkable here and we enjoyed ourselves. If you are in
Bora, you must do this. It is located behind the Sofitel Hotel. Speaking of hotels,
all of the large chains are here. There is the Sofitel, St. Regis, Meridian,
Four Seasons, Hilton, etc… The older hotels, like the Hotel Bora Bora, which
was at one time the most beautiful hotel on the island, has been closed for
four years now. I can’t help but wonder how building all of these large hotels
with their many (and I mean MANY) overwater bungalows has affected the coral
here. As we snorkeled the coral gardens I saw people stepping and walking on
the coral and a local dive boat even dropped anchor on it. This made me sad. I
am beginning to realize that the image I had of Bora is probably what it was
like many, many years ago. Now it is overrun by tourism, cruise ships, jet skis
and boat tours led by men in brightly colored thongs. I realize how spoiled Theo
and I have become by the raw beauty and the genuine kindness and simplicity of
the people in the Marquesas and Tuamotu. It took us a while to get used to it
there, and now we will have to get used to being back to a more modern, money
driven society. I am not complaining… I am just telling it how I see it.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOmyQkScX7aKloZasgNvyBOedGRTTfn3dEwfCIIAPnyNEJycGkF-aH7jmGhSQfYq6IA0H1SaphKakVImpK3h8hiadjN7kF7fva9qeck8HqHoNbSiDTYxdxIHf8GTZ2VmaqkPOyOyp6_Zxw/s1600/P1020755+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOmyQkScX7aKloZasgNvyBOedGRTTfn3dEwfCIIAPnyNEJycGkF-aH7jmGhSQfYq6IA0H1SaphKakVImpK3h8hiadjN7kF7fva9qeck8HqHoNbSiDTYxdxIHf8GTZ2VmaqkPOyOyp6_Zxw/s1600/P1020755+(Copy).JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yellow thong man</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyduU9WlqTtzXYgXGUEEvIR-yySkn3KyQVJUEPOU4XOxPbiG7aGD4X42o9j_iXVxFC0IK_QNjWcrc6_uW69OIokHhsJVwq-g0rKd4BXR_tqUiZppzHnHb1ndFD6EG_-lk6bP7rl1dg6cnb/s1600/vlcsnap-2014-08-26-18h35m22s213+(Copy)%2B(Small).png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyduU9WlqTtzXYgXGUEEvIR-yySkn3KyQVJUEPOU4XOxPbiG7aGD4X42o9j_iXVxFC0IK_QNjWcrc6_uW69OIokHhsJVwq-g0rKd4BXR_tqUiZppzHnHb1ndFD6EG_-lk6bP7rl1dg6cnb/s1600/vlcsnap-2014-08-26-18h35m22s213+(Copy)+(Small).png" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Green thong man feeding an eel</td></tr>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv-uA5AJDC38A0Ov5e2uG8c9nwJR7Ofk4T-Bz-z-8oWLVIxONsOz8SYICUt9PnJz2Bxc5niT6XjJI4l9PqyFm9SdYFy7NLDJbpn1SJBQY8HovEJCvxqaOH1yTPo2nwwaO40gXB5LtgzC_2/s1600/vlcsnap-2014-08-26-18h38m09s73+(Copy)%2B(Small).png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv-uA5AJDC38A0Ov5e2uG8c9nwJR7Ofk4T-Bz-z-8oWLVIxONsOz8SYICUt9PnJz2Bxc5niT6XjJI4l9PqyFm9SdYFy7NLDJbpn1SJBQY8HovEJCvxqaOH1yTPo2nwwaO40gXB5LtgzC_2/s1600/vlcsnap-2014-08-26-18h38m09s73+(Copy)+(Small).png" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Do you see the octopus?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgW9XKdRxq5A7Zenk4hGqNvMGpD_ueCuLNHt9TOIT4HaxIUWVl_JtACyXLNYkocdRormKzLcaqPpr5G7JyJfAMKkCWqmIseLJT4zAIIsjbfKvMZivRZx9wk-MubOyGV_YABPZ46OFtK2lc/s1600/vlcsnap-2014-08-26-18h39m40s175+(Copy)%2B(Small).png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgW9XKdRxq5A7Zenk4hGqNvMGpD_ueCuLNHt9TOIT4HaxIUWVl_JtACyXLNYkocdRormKzLcaqPpr5G7JyJfAMKkCWqmIseLJT4zAIIsjbfKvMZivRZx9wk-MubOyGV_YABPZ46OFtK2lc/s1600/vlcsnap-2014-08-26-18h39m40s175+(Copy)+(Small).png" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spotted Eagle Ray</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPcBtdu0SBqdCMz1aNzqTQdCMOtVvlV9BVWZX35jslW68qKP-jOXAqDutdKBmW5Pgvucyl9k1sHOTZnJAUDKzuxgpVa74lGuEbzWsKHurppwH8e99Z04BgGVfT9EMnsIW1f9D2QKD6YWqN/s1600/vlcsnap-2014-08-26-20h22m31s141+(Copy)%2B(Small).png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPcBtdu0SBqdCMz1aNzqTQdCMOtVvlV9BVWZX35jslW68qKP-jOXAqDutdKBmW5Pgvucyl9k1sHOTZnJAUDKzuxgpVa74lGuEbzWsKHurppwH8e99Z04BgGVfT9EMnsIW1f9D2QKD6YWqN/s1600/vlcsnap-2014-08-26-20h22m31s141+(Copy)+(Small).png" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Coral Gardens</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
After snorkeling, we returned to Et Voila' and grilled the
Mahi Mahi the nice young Aussie had given to us. It was the best I have ever
tasted… really! Charlie had brought a special bottle of wine with him that he
wanted to open in Bora Bora. A few years ago he lost a very dear friend of his
and wanted to toast to his memory and drop the empty bottle in the water. The
last trip his friend took before he passed away was to Bora, so this island has
a special meaning for Charlie. The two friends were supposed to sail to the
Marquesas together, but fate did not let that happen. Life is short… enjoy
every moment. It was a very special
afternoon.<o:p></o:p><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR3_qOg1ENYM61Ueau08VIvbsV6_nne9QPz_VJ9IM_xxOeGie70U9NbTKmuJxKAp1h_onsAnwkwwGdXJkI2kMZYBiVrlmY8EeIFl0DgUhtXiwAV0i8QlML7iZJ7mmnUXWbJJT22PXQxUBI/s1600/IMG_3939+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR3_qOg1ENYM61Ueau08VIvbsV6_nne9QPz_VJ9IM_xxOeGie70U9NbTKmuJxKAp1h_onsAnwkwwGdXJkI2kMZYBiVrlmY8EeIFl0DgUhtXiwAV0i8QlML7iZJ7mmnUXWbJJT22PXQxUBI/s1600/IMG_3939+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Charlie's special wine bottle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3RDZpfYjKnr-yEJ6nckpnAiaKLINJz6LfY7L8G3vOeaIqKH2KfMBLygc-6poNy0NX0AdD2LBi7AH7Lgjyjha9VU8tBBD9IBrUnDe5kziOx3ottjqczoSvkfFSvpfKSX4YuQ5sCoA3x-xp/s1600/IMG_1472+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3RDZpfYjKnr-yEJ6nckpnAiaKLINJz6LfY7L8G3vOeaIqKH2KfMBLygc-6poNy0NX0AdD2LBi7AH7Lgjyjha9VU8tBBD9IBrUnDe5kziOx3ottjqczoSvkfFSvpfKSX4YuQ5sCoA3x-xp/s1600/IMG_1472+(Copy).JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4BczctFfUjo37yqPy_XBxJ8kCZPpkCVIsOxQKsjddR_NBlJ3p5_MqnEb44Sn-FbAesoCpr521F2xL_Hzcq9E21gv6o6SpGXNUTNT_NSe0DLEA9X6nVeVA5_Uk_c-0Ha36fra5iPdnYhqU/s1600/IMG_1532+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4BczctFfUjo37yqPy_XBxJ8kCZPpkCVIsOxQKsjddR_NBlJ3p5_MqnEb44Sn-FbAesoCpr521F2xL_Hzcq9E21gv6o6SpGXNUTNT_NSe0DLEA9X6nVeVA5_Uk_c-0Ha36fra5iPdnYhqU/s1600/IMG_1532+(Copy).JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our new lazy bag</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After naps the boys began installing the new sail bag that
Bruno had made for us (remember that Theo and I had ripped the original one in
the Marquesas). This one has been made to last and we are very happy with it.
It is even a beautiful copper color which I like a lot… thank you Bruno!
Afterward we went to a restaurant that was located on the water and close to
our anchorage called Matira Beach. We sat at a beautiful table outside and the
food was amazing. When we first arrived, we were admiring some hand crafted
ukuleles that were on display. Charlie decided he wanted to purchase one as a
souvenir of the trip. While we were all
trying to decide which one he should choose, a man came up to us and began
playing one… beautifully! He was the artist who had carved them and he was
having dinner with his wife at the restaurant. He serenaded us for a while and
then introduced himself as Varii. He is originally from Ua Pou in the Marquesas
(our favorite island there). When he saw Theo’s Marquesan tattoo, he became
very emotional and embraced him in a long hug… brothers. Varii is also a
tattooist and really wanted to do some work on Safar! He introduced his wife,
Celina, and announced that we must drink together. There was a round of cognacs
for all ( I did not indulge), which eventually turned into many more rounds of
cognacs (5 maybe?). Varii continued to sing and play the ukulele and Celina
danced. Eventually some drums and various other instruments appeared, and more
crafts were purchased from Varii’s collection. At one point, Varii was
embracing Safar affectionately and even gave him his hat to take home as a
memory. It was a fun time, but Theo and
I were tired and the boys showed no sign of slowing down. We left them on the
beach with the restaurant gang and a strong flashlight. They were going to
shine the light on our boat when they were ready to be picked up by Theo… I
went off to bed.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIPsfbEbKZ8u9pnshY2Xkm6V1YzH0LwZ8G6kk7lhjPCClHXjnmIl_dVSZHbZjPghHRViXYaNuvmHGvOkrveSqza0MLNGH8HRKa-OPWQll9sy1UuRvJ2QQSWos10JUkVp9J1M9ISKETs2a3/s1600/P1050969+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIPsfbEbKZ8u9pnshY2Xkm6V1YzH0LwZ8G6kk7lhjPCClHXjnmIl_dVSZHbZjPghHRViXYaNuvmHGvOkrveSqza0MLNGH8HRKa-OPWQll9sy1UuRvJ2QQSWos10JUkVp9J1M9ISKETs2a3/s1600/P1050969+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matira Beach Dinner</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv1_PPboj3jda84WwSJdK5lJ6_BjMwHBWxkL0_paVFXxUN41pGXOCUrOkoW68ujvKrY62bA2CkK6WIYqFLzOhNTsEqtYBCONvN_CyowuvIWzLT0OWanYCpeing9jh03rprvimr9LSEgOFo/s1600/P1020710+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv1_PPboj3jda84WwSJdK5lJ6_BjMwHBWxkL0_paVFXxUN41pGXOCUrOkoW68ujvKrY62bA2CkK6WIYqFLzOhNTsEqtYBCONvN_CyowuvIWzLT0OWanYCpeing9jh03rprvimr9LSEgOFo/s1600/P1020710+(Copy).JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Varii and his ukulele</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7dXBnuBhoTDtc_HR_ObPwujy42YevmuVPbs_wTHfewuxHlk9ELQ-2Gwkgj9hBcb5PQvSCcjGSckZdkgq5xiaOKDLtwW8I6ZEqnhzUJ6-KynLuFOaIfc9WHdAofD7-fXX3r1zu8dB7v7FI/s1600/P1020705+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7dXBnuBhoTDtc_HR_ObPwujy42YevmuVPbs_wTHfewuxHlk9ELQ-2Gwkgj9hBcb5PQvSCcjGSckZdkgq5xiaOKDLtwW8I6ZEqnhzUJ6-KynLuFOaIfc9WHdAofD7-fXX3r1zu8dB7v7FI/s1600/P1020705+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Varii and Celina singing and playing as Jacques looks on</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi18a9neGbSbxXAHZwzd4t7SBp611bk_6ML7Cz1GZaLnT4dfIJ8bDbpsNQgpZxKcM-LEuuFEjZd7Kl7x3ahSxQ7GnslM8kDPUbkz-Zgh8UMkyze2UmXqfLm80w0PNCl1jrERh1KVQ9hVP2r/s1600/P1020730+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi18a9neGbSbxXAHZwzd4t7SBp611bk_6ML7Cz1GZaLnT4dfIJ8bDbpsNQgpZxKcM-LEuuFEjZd7Kl7x3ahSxQ7GnslM8kDPUbkz-Zgh8UMkyze2UmXqfLm80w0PNCl1jrERh1KVQ9hVP2r/s1600/P1020730+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Charlie chimes in</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8YCAdf5wU7USLM0O3I6j2-wV9y1E7x_nmD_OU8Zb7dh9Yq2brzWKC7RXGVTI5ZOvvKEODlGUokP7sBfPy-gOtZHFNaXEraaaS_ETQc0Lkn83iWumkMF3-g5mjqzyBNxJEil_o9rXJAr9E/s1600/P1020721+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8YCAdf5wU7USLM0O3I6j2-wV9y1E7x_nmD_OU8Zb7dh9Yq2brzWKC7RXGVTI5ZOvvKEODlGUokP7sBfPy-gOtZHFNaXEraaaS_ETQc0Lkn83iWumkMF3-g5mjqzyBNxJEil_o9rXJAr9E/s1600/P1020721+(Copy).JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marquesan tattoo brothers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZY9h5JvKzY9u36_VDs65IZSsYXfqCC_sjFSfr_CBBYBDMp3f9IvIDImgRsSTlAwozAcNHEvEXKLTfUsWLshYrowl7PYoinDKTLykfObH-yc3KylSjbRAWkwlZ4vkKUsMOv9KVgPw1wBFM/s1600/P1020733+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZY9h5JvKzY9u36_VDs65IZSsYXfqCC_sjFSfr_CBBYBDMp3f9IvIDImgRsSTlAwozAcNHEvEXKLTfUsWLshYrowl7PYoinDKTLykfObH-yc3KylSjbRAWkwlZ4vkKUsMOv9KVgPw1wBFM/s1600/P1020733+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Matira Beach Restaurant " gang"... a fun night</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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</div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In the morning, I was very surprised to see Safar and
Charlie awake (and without tattoos). The restaurant was going to open up
especially for them at 7 o’clock to make them espresso. Jacque was unable to attend because he wanted
to stay in bed… no kidding!! Theo and I enjoy the coffee we have on the boat,
so we stayed behind as well. What a wild
night… fun, fun, fun!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We motored to the Vaitape Wharf which is a landing place for
shuttle boats to and from the airport. The boys are flying out of Bora in the
late afternoon, so it was time for souvenir shopping and lunch out before they
took the shuttle to the airport motu… yes, the airport here is built on its own
motu… we all loved that. We watched as
they left. It was great time and we have special memories of our voyage
together… It was a pleasure.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBFpcTzOgVjty-3VwpFi6SEmemjVwEMpFzhkexrjCoEznlSZg8odzZlKaA_TtPHYTvotZ9QiPM1y7Xm0FIJ-jt2W0m2Gw_15Hl_VUk9JX1UQcPU2mFlrF-NEhDN-D0JKyrQG2FQPBGrsQg/s1600/P1020750+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBFpcTzOgVjty-3VwpFi6SEmemjVwEMpFzhkexrjCoEznlSZg8odzZlKaA_TtPHYTvotZ9QiPM1y7Xm0FIJ-jt2W0m2Gw_15Hl_VUk9JX1UQcPU2mFlrF-NEhDN-D0JKyrQG2FQPBGrsQg/s1600/P1020750+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Some of the boats that we have known since Hiva Oa in the
Marquesas are here. It is fun to see people in various places along the way.
Cruising is like spending the day at Disneyland and running into your friends
in different lines throughout the day. Since we installed our SSB radio, we can
listen and check in on the Isabella Net which helps to keep us informed on
locations of other boats and weather conditions as sailors are underway. Every
morning at 8 o’clock, boats check in to the net and give their coordinates.
This is a huge thing for safety. The net knows where you are and where you are
headed. I am so relieved we took the time to install the radio in Tahiti.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We were going to be leaving town soon to explore the
southern part of Bora, so I decided to find a hairdresser to fix my hair. I had
attempted to cut it myself the week prior and it wasn’t pretty. I trimmed my
bangs and the top of my head, but didn’t cut the side or back. Whenever I took
my sunglasses off or if the wind blew a certain way, I looked like Bozo the
clown (the younger generation will have to google Bozo). As I walked through
town I found a small salon with just two chairs and a woman named Pascal who
was more than happy to cut my hair. She gave me a wash, had me put on a plastic
robe and sit. As she was inspecting the hair situation, she kept looking at me
and shaking her head. She pointed at me and said “You do this?” She began
cutting and I began perspiring. In the beginning she was blotting my face and
neck with a towel, but the longer I kept the plastic robe on, the more I was sweating
profusely. Pascal finally closed the door and blasted the air conditioning for
me. Now the wind can blow as much as it wants and my hair will not budge!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQC-NUPy7UVDZlWjiE7LR3g9ylJK13lNTyxpOrq33PuxFIaW5QKM0RUUxk7UNfi7ZjO4xpiFDaZl3lMlZwJg_F4ORT_Yf82FIhR14a3FyWpyYIm7NWGUqjCyRdjftYtbEg6RlBf9Ky9mch/s1600/P1020787+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQC-NUPy7UVDZlWjiE7LR3g9ylJK13lNTyxpOrq33PuxFIaW5QKM0RUUxk7UNfi7ZjO4xpiFDaZl3lMlZwJg_F4ORT_Yf82FIhR14a3FyWpyYIm7NWGUqjCyRdjftYtbEg6RlBf9Ky9mch/s1600/P1020787+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Polynesian hair dresser Pascal</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We motored south and anchored in front of the St. Regis. We
have heard there are Manta Rays in the pass here and we are excited to swim
with them again. We have not seen them since Hiva Oa. We looked for them four
times on different days and at different times, but no luck. We have seen many
spotted eagle rays, stingrays and even an octopus, but no mantas. The water in
Bora in unbeatable. It is clear with many shades, like the color of mouthwash,
and perfect for swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, whatever… it was so nice to be
here. We were having lunch and suddenly Theo asked “Where are the fishing
poles?” Our hearts sank. They must have been stolen while we were sleeping the
night before. We know we should never have left them out in the first place,
but we have always felt so safe since the Marquesas and Tuamotu. Nobody would
steal there and we slept every night with our boat door open. Not anymore. We
are so upset because the reels and poles were a gift from my father. We know we
cannot buy a new pole and reel in Bora, so our fishing days are over. Theo got on the internet to research for
theft in Bora and found out that a considerable number of dinghies have been
stolen from the back of cruising boats. This is disheartening. Now we have a
lock on our dinghy as well… we are not in the Marquesas anymore.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We motored further south towards the coral gardens and
anchored in a lagoon nearby. There is a shallow shelf of water with a deeper
drop off and Theo managed to anchor so that our stern was right at the shelf.
It was perfect, except for our loud neighbors. There was another catamaran near
us and four of the people on board had jumped in the water with glasses in
their hands. It seemed they had been indulging for a while and had become very,
very loud (it was 10 o’clock in the morning). Oh well, at least Theo and I
would be there if they needed rescuing later on. Seriously though, cruising and
alcohol do not go together… You are surrounded by water after all! When Theo
and I were in Nuku Hiva in the Marquesas we saw a sad accident. We were sitting
at a café by the dinghy dock and a boat came in at full speed yelling and
signaling for help. We ran over and there was a young man that appeared to be
having a seizure and had a large, bleeding wound on his back. I thought it was
a shark bite. People managed to get him off the boat and onto the concrete. It
took the ambulance a very long time to respond. It actually sped right by with
sirens and everything. Five minutes later it came back… not good. Anyway, the
story turned out to be that this young man was on his boat with his girlfriend.
They had been drinking (the accident occurred around 10 in the morning) and he
managed to fall and hit his back on the swim ladder and then pass out in the
water. The family in the boat next to them managed to resuscitate him and bring
him to shore for help. Scary… we don’t
know how he ended up. I like to think that he is okay and grateful to be alive.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We motored back north to stay in town for a few days. We went to the grocery store to buy some
supplies, but not much there. We bought two rolls of paper towels, coffee,
water and a carton of eggs. We will be moving on soon.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LESSONS:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
- Do not wear red shoes in the rain, on a boat or anywhere
else that there is water.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Plastic makes me sweat.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Once you reach the Society Islands, lock up anything of
value.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-A big, strong flashlight is very useful.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Tie a double knot when towing your dinghy behind the boat.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Take the time to call and make a reservation.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
QUOTES:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You will find it necessary to let things go simply for the
reason that they are heavy.” –C. Joybell<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You can spend minutes, hours, days, weeks, or even months
overanalyzing a situation, trying to put the pieces together, justifying what
could’ve, would’ve happened… or you can just leave the pieces on the floor and
move on.”-Tupac<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“The past is a trail you leave behind, much like the wake of
a speed boat. That is, it is a vanishing trail temporarily showing you where
you were. The wake of a boat doesn’t affect its course – obviously it can’t,
since it only appears BEHIND the boat. So consider this image when you exclaim
that your past is the reason you aren’t moving forward.” – Dr. Wayne Dyer<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CHEERS!! FROM OUR INTERNATIONAL GROUP!!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="FR">Sah’a – Syria<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="FR">Sante’ – French<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="FR">Yer Nat –
Bretany, France<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="FR">Salute – Italy<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ya’su – Greece<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Maa nu’ia – Tahitian<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mokai - Marquesan<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03471059532461159422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3358276371486559811.post-78246095469463893252014-08-19T18:10:00.000-07:002014-08-19T18:10:02.691-07:00Home, Tahiti & Moorea<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>JULY 1 – 23, 2014<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I arrived at LAX airport around 11am after taking a red eye
flight out of Papeete, Tahiti. It is a good flight. I go to sleep … wake up… breakfast
… land in Los Angeles… done. It is an eight hour flight, but it feels like 2 or
3 hours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I recommend it highly. Our son
Jonathan picked me up at the airport and we went directly to our favorite
Vietnamese restaurant. Being with him again was a wonderful feeling and we had
a very, very nice time together. He is a smart and kind young man and I am
proud of him. I am happy to be home.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">That being said, modern life is stressful. I am a bit uneasy
about how easily I slipped right back into the daily grind. I barely made it on
time to places I needed to be, had an endless to do lists… rush, rush, rush. I
saw as many friends as I could while juggling my various appointments.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>During this trip home, I realized just how
much I truly missed my family and friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>That is just how it will have to be for now. I can’t have it all! The
good news is that my oncologist said that my blood work looks good and he will
see me again in November … YIPPEE!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Happiness and a huge relief… onward.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">As I write this, it is evening and I am in a quaint hotel
room in La Jolla, San Diego. My patio door is open and there is live music
playing from a restaurant across the street.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>James Taylor, the Eagles and Dave Matthews Band… right up my alley. I love
San Diego. Theo and I met here 26 years ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>After dating for a year and a half, we married in a small church in
Italy and then moved to Orange County. We have spent our adult lives together
and have been through most of the ups and downs that come with it. Right now he has friends visiting in Tahiti will I am gone, so I know
he is having a great time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I am in San Diego with our daughter Stephanie and her boyfriend
Will who has flown in from Australia. She is going to attend college beginning
in August and we are getting her settled before I leave for Tahiti again. It is
so strange to be in San Diego, our old stomping ground, but this time our daughter
is driving ME through town! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Surreal… Will
is a wonderful young man and is great with Stephanie. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They seem very comfortable and natural
together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Stephanie had traveled to South Africa and was
working with children at a school. Will was also volunteering and helping with a building project nearby, so that is how they met. They have a lot in common and
complement each other in a very nice way. I am so grateful to have had these
days with them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Their company has been
very, very enjoyable. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Will is returning
to Australia to do a job in Perth for the next year or so. There is always the
issue of geography for them, but it’s only geography. Nothing is impossible,
and if you truly want it to be… it will be. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I believe that with all of my heart.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">FUN THINGS I DID WHILE HOME:<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Vietnamese lunch and talking with Jonathan.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Bike ride with Stephanie along the coast on the Fourth of
July and then watched fireworks at home with Jonathan and friends.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Lots of visits with very dear friends. My childhood friend
Christina even flew from Monterey so we could spend time together, which was
especially nice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Evenings with my Mother and Father (and their dog Lyla).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Attended a book club meeting with “the girls”.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Got many, many comforting hugs from people that mean the
world to me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Was able to go to the 3<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">rd</span></sup> annual paddle and swim
in honor of our friend Michele.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Went for my favorite walk in the wetlands with Claire.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Spent time with Stephanie and got to know her boyfriend
Will.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Ate Mexican food every day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Cooked meals with Jonathan.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Attended the OC Fair and rode the Euro Slide. Stephanie won
a beta fish there. His name is Gandolf (after the wizard from the Lord of the
Rings).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Rode bikes to Seal Beach and went to the annual Fish Fry.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Picked up my Italian cousins from LAX on July 18th and have
been having a great time with them ever since. They will be joining Theo and me
in Tahiti!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOTJjJiAcYFl8IZwzPCkgC28fW2E0yVKv5xs31eLHtdIKRpIPfjtSe24pkPKde5MG-dgMDNcP8JYi_znyHsGwVQ43nrqmSs9iap77v16V96ZGJyrpgYuw_x-8eBpaEfUNi-f-do1zLA4V3/s1600/20140708_173122+(Copy).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOTJjJiAcYFl8IZwzPCkgC28fW2E0yVKv5xs31eLHtdIKRpIPfjtSe24pkPKde5MG-dgMDNcP8JYi_znyHsGwVQ43nrqmSs9iap77v16V96ZGJyrpgYuw_x-8eBpaEfUNi-f-do1zLA4V3/s1600/20140708_173122+(Copy).jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jonathan and Mummford went for a July 4th kayak</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8J6RZan55yCpzWJHP8wicFN8rYQi_YVyjer3c3SsPI8K4uJYDytLArCAbb5jLWU1rpzq7qxgm3Ixh3W1jwkYPOjOjN5w5ZODaFhzUEh0OB0cC6Lc9WoQ52N_u77Zp9pqn6NfKgUnHVlsU/s1600/20140715_215255+(Copy).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8J6RZan55yCpzWJHP8wicFN8rYQi_YVyjer3c3SsPI8K4uJYDytLArCAbb5jLWU1rpzq7qxgm3Ixh3W1jwkYPOjOjN5w5ZODaFhzUEh0OB0cC6Lc9WoQ52N_u77Zp9pqn6NfKgUnHVlsU/s1600/20140715_215255+(Copy).jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying time with our friends the Stanleys</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw5MkAL7iULsBWgv3wlrNab0InQfanGaRiSq2_cjDcM7flqwbEb5K4u269E6BO8obkk5iwg5pZMSCZfgbOTy8oeAVH7g0A6F98XZSJJA6yLrsBT3IypFWomiDmQ2zHxTcwSfFfCyT8rYvv/s1600/20140713_082453+(Copy).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw5MkAL7iULsBWgv3wlrNab0InQfanGaRiSq2_cjDcM7flqwbEb5K4u269E6BO8obkk5iwg5pZMSCZfgbOTy8oeAVH7g0A6F98XZSJJA6yLrsBT3IypFWomiDmQ2zHxTcwSfFfCyT8rYvv/s1600/20140713_082453+(Copy).jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The third annual Paddle and Swim in Seal Beach</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPR7gVTmSUIlVHCR0yYJOSNQXUaOJdoOnVXEdkk5Ii_pRsF8Xzt9cP1J_V-Pc6KJPKGJ2Zc4uHJk7d0YhYmk0Ez9xbVIarU-iytOv4RVwghE0vbDS3gQ-aNOBITULmy1nDXICpCD65C0LL/s1600/20140713_200710+(Copy).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPR7gVTmSUIlVHCR0yYJOSNQXUaOJdoOnVXEdkk5Ii_pRsF8Xzt9cP1J_V-Pc6KJPKGJ2Zc4uHJk7d0YhYmk0Ez9xbVIarU-iytOv4RVwghE0vbDS3gQ-aNOBITULmy1nDXICpCD65C0LL/s1600/20140713_200710+(Copy).jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My mother, Stephanie, me (holding Lyla) and my father</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTIpPjUa68DDYHr2kj3gWD9TGzhy_QVKlIObiRQxnJQFRiKCxzmxqFELAKP1GQbYxxIQHHHQ6PoSOC8I5JDYzKKgMm-hi1HyEfwyKd76wRmHCZFzW8zqPLJiBLoZdrTv36skS3EIyk0i1L/s1600/20140717_190737+(Copy).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTIpPjUa68DDYHr2kj3gWD9TGzhy_QVKlIObiRQxnJQFRiKCxzmxqFELAKP1GQbYxxIQHHHQ6PoSOC8I5JDYzKKgMm-hi1HyEfwyKd76wRmHCZFzW8zqPLJiBLoZdrTv36skS3EIyk0i1L/s1600/20140717_190737+(Copy).jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Will and Stephanie participating in the potato eating contest at the OC Fair</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9VNiQpokna0W8k3_kZeFY0Dw57Mp2Dca8K9YgT6rIj1Hqf1gry0lgjVRES_Prsph-tcIM68EHYojmf4Bjdb1RHdOfQ90zKPp5PEHahoWHtZGojZhy_e6brtbnumm_vp2mUTQtKVq61K3Q/s1600/20140719_112702+(Copy).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9VNiQpokna0W8k3_kZeFY0Dw57Mp2Dca8K9YgT6rIj1Hqf1gry0lgjVRES_Prsph-tcIM68EHYojmf4Bjdb1RHdOfQ90zKPp5PEHahoWHtZGojZhy_e6brtbnumm_vp2mUTQtKVq61K3Q/s1600/20140719_112702+(Copy).jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the Seal Beach Fish Fry with Bruno, Giulia, Daniela, Ernesto, Lucia</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Will and Stephanie</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>JULY 24 – AUGUST<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>5,
2014<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>PAPEETE, TAHITI AND MOOREA<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">As soon as I stepped foot outside the Air Tahiti Nui flight
from Los Angeles to Papeete I was welcomed by the weather. Warmth with that
humidity… there is no doubt where I am! My Italian cousins are with me. Their
names are Ernesto, who is my first cousin on my mother’s side, his wife Daniela
and their two daughters Giulia and Lucia. They have traveled so far to be with
us, so Theo and I want to make sure they have a great experience. That being
said, they are not accustomed to living on a boat and sailing. We will take
time to explain water conservation, how to minimize trash, turning off the gas
when it is not in use, etc… When our son Jonathan and his friend Ethan arrive
in a few days, there will be eight of us living on board. They will have to work
out the sleeping arrangements. We will see how it goes!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">One of my friends asked me what I was bringing back to
Tahiti with me. I am not sure what she was expecting me to say, but she seemed
surprised when I began reciting the list that was in my head. One Honda BF 20
outboard propeller (just in case we hit a prop killing rock), more fishing lures,
a new cell phone for Theo, a Canon EFS 17-85mm camera lens to replace the one
that broke at the very beginning of our trip, LOTS of hydro cortisone cream for
insect bites, a soldering gun with base and spool, more stainless steel cups
and storage containers, marine grease… and I could go on and on. I barely had
room for anything else.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I was so happy to see Theo and Isabel again! I could tell
immediately that Theo was a bit stunned by all of us and the amount of baggage
we had. He wasn't speaking much. We managed to load everything and everyone into
the dinghy and onto Et Voila. Once on board I saw that Theo had brought Mambo’s
ashes back to the boat. I am not sure why, but this was and continues to be a
very big relief to me. We will scatter his ashes as we sail between the Society
Islands. He loved the water, so that is where he will be… In the most stunning
blue ocean we have ever seen!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Theo is trying to have a SSB radio installed on our boat.
Many of the boats that we have gotten to know tune into this radio at 8 o’clock
every morning to share information. Without this radio we cannot participate,
so we feel disconnected. It should have been installed before we left from the
United States where it would have been very simple. Here… not simple. We have
two men working on it who are supposed to be the “specialists” in the area.
They are like Laurel and Hardy, Lucy and Ethel, Mo and Larry, Beevus and
Butthead… you get the picture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They do
not know what they are doing and Theo is beyond himself with frustration. His
blood pressure must be crazy high. I try not to pay too much attention because
I wouldn't be surprised if Theo grabs them by their hair and launches them into
the water at any moment. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thankfully, our
friend Randy is still here with his son Sam, and they have been Theo’s extra
eyes and hands to help finish the job.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the meantime, we
have arranged for my cousins to take a tour of the island while we finish what
needs to be done on the boat. When they returned, they were going on and on
about the beauty of Tahiti… It was obviously a very good tour. They left at 8
am and returned at 7 pm! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Papeete is not
our favorite spot, but once outside, the island is lovely. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Despite how busy they were that day, Theo and
Randy still managed to buy live crabs from the back of a local’s van for our
dinner. The crabs were very large and their claws were held closed with rubber bands.
When it was time for the pot, we realized that two of them had managed to
remove the rubber bands and a third had already escaped into the water (or was
scurrying about the boat). Theo grabbed one of the crabs that was loose from
behind, but it rapidly lunged his huge claw under his body and cut Theo’s finger.
This was scary and painful, so of course Theo claimed that crab as HIS dinner.
The other escaped into the water right before our own eyes and Theo almost went
in right behind him. This is called working for your meal!! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Theo and I have managed to keep all of our
fingers and toes attached to our bodies during this voyage, so we will not push
our luck by messing with fighting, angry, Houdini crabs again. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqG_ZYeXuQoi9RAOvSGDhL49N0DqtN8Ybo9i2J9MmqTVwnDWRliCPz8FOqiCsbB4IQf5jyjA2152183xWu-laxL9R2kcU8Ry7mdKkwJAC6L4oJDf-GZTcBhGJMnbwYZ57-iO_ho7MeqGih/s1600/20140805_162832+(Copy).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqG_ZYeXuQoi9RAOvSGDhL49N0DqtN8Ybo9i2J9MmqTVwnDWRliCPz8FOqiCsbB4IQf5jyjA2152183xWu-laxL9R2kcU8Ry7mdKkwJAC6L4oJDf-GZTcBhGJMnbwYZ57-iO_ho7MeqGih/s1600/20140805_162832+(Copy).jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jonathan and Ethan arrive in Tahiti</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0S0g3fk5BRYQ95VoxQ9OIyIaztq7apzsYw2zKCUS6Hk_uuQ-opd90UY6rcIV6Wminjkm5lqZmX15D15YXiynVRO_uvzgTSZAIMNenXRIypSzPqCZCszysVrzxGWrgLF0GSlXqAUSBbjlZ/s1600/IMG_1258+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0S0g3fk5BRYQ95VoxQ9OIyIaztq7apzsYw2zKCUS6Hk_uuQ-opd90UY6rcIV6Wminjkm5lqZmX15D15YXiynVRO_uvzgTSZAIMNenXRIypSzPqCZCszysVrzxGWrgLF0GSlXqAUSBbjlZ/s1600/IMG_1258+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Exploring</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_k84h2v_EUqUhZjK4boX_0lzldUUKAX74a0rDn4A_EAbVDgh0-s3mawnrBHHBULC5jd6ZzAnHGG5-LCcuAiJHVMj_020sC4NTQYlLnGFH9rqNq_DGY50RWS9onRtiCZvEu80RBsNqbyeJ/s1600/IMG_1200+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_k84h2v_EUqUhZjK4boX_0lzldUUKAX74a0rDn4A_EAbVDgh0-s3mawnrBHHBULC5jd6ZzAnHGG5-LCcuAiJHVMj_020sC4NTQYlLnGFH9rqNq_DGY50RWS9onRtiCZvEu80RBsNqbyeJ/s1600/IMG_1200+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo and his Polynesian Canoe</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNDk6AIY87rS1SKYTvkl5L2zNrYbZepNWuOf_PEAsxbRNZpmVMf90w_YlDYor5vmy1aZ_WJPAz0eC7qUcAnmjS8F4coSGL5xyXdtP7AXiu8JdUoiRQi3hPQB-IKjyVw-pZPhyphenhyphenHCh5i2fYX/s1600/IMG_1274+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNDk6AIY87rS1SKYTvkl5L2zNrYbZepNWuOf_PEAsxbRNZpmVMf90w_YlDYor5vmy1aZ_WJPAz0eC7qUcAnmjS8F4coSGL5xyXdtP7AXiu8JdUoiRQi3hPQB-IKjyVw-pZPhyphenhyphenHCh5i2fYX/s1600/IMG_1274+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Canoe races passed by our anchorage on a beautiful Saturday morning</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBkjB-429at1LGh4wGF8fNTjDHE7AXqhWrfFxGm9tJ6Y13VD5YA3SXLX2Eg_xwoSo0kZGuj-w1FQbmjqYJNhWhvmx40938XVu3BBQSxJGy0VvT56ctzw_bdr6HlwiiAF7J1eSt355PpmYw/s1600/IMG_1263+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBkjB-429at1LGh4wGF8fNTjDHE7AXqhWrfFxGm9tJ6Y13VD5YA3SXLX2Eg_xwoSo0kZGuj-w1FQbmjqYJNhWhvmx40938XVu3BBQSxJGy0VvT56ctzw_bdr6HlwiiAF7J1eSt355PpmYw/s1600/IMG_1263+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The sun setting behind Moorea as seen from our anchorage in Tahiti</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjud5iMUv_0Phi7RddsnyYYwHsLBXVF_W0dmZAEZsK4nM7fz-m6DDz6vODNDX8VbcwI3PLszKywYbW-ofDCW6UkwY94o9yNwBpwoPmMLz5WuR3yN0orLYnOad_hmiSh_uvX99-wp1Oi_SRL/s1600/P1020473+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjud5iMUv_0Phi7RddsnyYYwHsLBXVF_W0dmZAEZsK4nM7fz-m6DDz6vODNDX8VbcwI3PLszKywYbW-ofDCW6UkwY94o9yNwBpwoPmMLz5WuR3yN0orLYnOad_hmiSh_uvX99-wp1Oi_SRL/s1600/P1020473+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I have been replaced as first mate...these two are inseparable</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>JULY 26, 2014<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>MOOREA</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We have left Papeete for Moorea Island. Theo has been to
this island before with friends, but I have not experienced it yet and am very
curious. We are motoring because Et Voila is heading straight into 30 knot winds.
It is a bumpy ride. We are used to it, but the Italians are not. When we initially
left the harbor the girls were in bathing suits, lying on the bow with
beautiful wraps and their long hair flying free. It looked like an
advertisement for Yachting Magazine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
was in running shorts and T-shirt with my sun hat strapped under my chin. I
watched on as the colorful wraps almost flew into the ocean and the loose hair
was quickly tied into tight buns on top of their heads. Thank goodness they had
taken sea sickness pills as we suggested.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Despite the rough ride to Moorea, we put two fishing poles
in the water. We were determined to catch a fish for dinner. After a while we heard
the familiar sound of the fishing reel’s high pitched buzzing. Theo ran
downstairs to get the pole with the fish, while I put the boat in neutral and
began reeling in the second fishing pole. We understood very quickly that this
catch was way too much for our pole. It was a big one! It took all of our line,
which was a first, and eventually freed itself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>During our time cruising, we have lost a total of four fish and four
lures. We have a lot of wasabi and soy sauce on board, so we will keep trying…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We arrived in Moorea and were greeted with spectacular
shades of green trees and plants that contrasted with turquoise water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We see the mountain slopes and spires reminiscent
of the Marquesas and the crystal clear water like the Tuamotu… a stunning
combination. We have anchored at 10 feet of water just outside of Opunohu bay,
which is a very deep, pretty and natural bay. We put on our snorkeling gear and
went to a location that Theo only described as “a surprise”. Once we had jumped
in we were greeted by hungry stingrays. I have to say it was very intimidating
at first (which is why I was clamped onto Theo’s back like a baby monkey). We
had some small frozen fish with us and the stingrays swim up your body to get
them because their mouths are underneath their bodies. After a while you can
recognize different personality traits among them. Some are very gentle, while
others are more aggressive. All the while we were feeding the stingrays, there
were also sharks swimming nearby. ALWAYS keep your hand holding the fish OUT of
the water so the sharks don’t go for it! This seems like common sense, but if
you are in the water and you have eight rather large stingrays swimming all
over you, it is easy to forget about where your hand is. Anyway, it was fun and
I eventually got off of Theo’s back to feed them myself. When the sharks got too
close for my comfort, I jumped back into the dinghy and used the excuse that I
had to take pictures.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">That night we wanted to go out for dinner. We are still
recovering from our live crab experience, and the fact that we are occasionally
finding and cleaning crab goo from various parts of the cockpit and stern is
just gross… so out for dinner we went (despite Theo’s warnings that it would be
too dark on the<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>dinghy ride back). We
rode to shore at sunset, had a delicious meal and enjoyed each other’s company.
It was a great evening… until it wasn’t. Theo never said “I told you so”, but
he should have. The sky was filled with stars, but we still did not have any visibility
going back to the catamaran. We had a small flashlight with us, but it just
blinded us more. This was serious because it was pitch black and we were on the
water with coral platforms everywhere! We have learned by now that if you are
going to hit something, try to hit it slowly. Sure enough, we eventually took a
wrong turn and hit something (slowly). We were stranded in the middle of a knee
deep garden of coral. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was not scary
to me, but the girls were very uncomfortable about being on the water in the
dark. We were stranded and disoriented. Theo and Ernesto got out and pulled us
safely away. What we did not know was that Ernesto was wearing flip-flops and
cut his toe pretty badly. Theo kept saying over and over “We are NEVER doing
this again”… We eventually DID do it again. More on that later!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The next day we walked to the Belvedere lookout. I call it a
walk and not a hike because it is on a paved road and about a quarter of the
way to the top, there is a stand where you can get fresh, cold fruit and juice…
we were not roughing it! I had the best pineapple juice I have ever tasted. The
scenery along the way is rugged and wild. Tall green trees and plants that have
grown over the path give much appreciated shade, and bright colored flowers of
the island are all around… they are my favorite. We continued on and when we
reached the lookout point we saw a spectacular view of both Cook’s Bay and
Opunohu Bay. I recommend experiencing this if you are here. Try to go on a
sunny, clear day so you get good pictures.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Jonathan and his friend Ethan have arrived in Papeete and
are taking the fast Ferry boat to meet us in Moorea. This takes 30 minutes. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can’t wait to have them here. They have been
friends since they were ten years old and roommates for the past three years.
After staying with us for a week in Moorea, they will continue on for a two
week adventure in New Zealand (cold!!) and then back to Los Angeles. Good for
them! Once they arrived at the boat, we took them to the stingrays and sharks.
I loved watching strong young men scream like teenage girls… it was a good
laugh. Afterwards we met the Italians for lunch at a small outdoor restaurant
called Coco Beach. It is located on a small motu that you can only get to by
boat and the view and the food is the best. We lounged on the beach and swam
until sunset. Once we were back on the catamaran, we began preparing dinner. I
had defrosted the huge octopus that Liza had given us in Fakarava and we were
going to do some on the grill and some in a pasta dish. It turned out amazing
and everyone enjoyed it. I was a bit concerned about cooking for eight people,
but it is really not that bad. The cleaning up is what gets you! Thankfully,
Ernesto and Daniela have been a great help with that. The real issues we have
had is water. Our tanks were down to one quarter full on the first day of
having four more people on board. At this point in time we are almost empty,
and now we have two more people living onboard!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The next day, July 31, was Jonathan’s 22<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">nd</span></sup>
birthday. I made two loaves of pumpkin bread to go with our coffee. I wanted to
put candles in one of them to sing happy birthday, but when I did this the
candles melted inside the bread. We saw pink, green and blue blobs of wax
inside when it was cut open. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Who needs
candles anyway?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">After breakfast everyone jumped into the water to snorkel. A
long time went by and we realized Theo was not back. We looked and looked and
finally spotted him swimming by himself a ways off. I sent Jonathan on the kayak
to get him. Two hours went by and still no Theo and Jonathan. I was happy they
were having father-son time together, but I was also concerned because I could
see the kayak, but not the boys. Finally, I decided to go get them. The dinghy
was still on the davit, out of the water, from the night before, so I released
it back down to get in and go. As I did this, I saw that they were in the kayak
heading back. I forgot about the dinghy and went about doing other things. Once
they were on board, we all prepared ourselves to go onshore. As we were about to
board the dinghy, Theo said, “It is full of water”. Yes, it was. When I had
lowered it into the water earlier, I forgot to close the drain plug.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am ashamed to admit that I did this, but I
swore to myself I would disclose everything that happens in this blog, no
matter how embarrassing it may be. After getting a murderous look from my
husband, the bailing began. The water eventually came out and luckily it did
not short out the battery. We were able to go on with our day. Phew… Lesson
learned.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Once on shore we relaxed on an isolated beach. We pretended
we were Tom Hanks from the movie Castaway and even decorated a coconut to look
like Wilson… It was fun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On the way back
to Et Voila, it started pouring down rain. We were all laughing so hard because
we were soaking wet and everything we had brought with us was soaked as well.
When we got closer to the boat we saw not one, but two rainbows. Ernesto
serenaded us with the song Somewhere Over the Rainbow and all was good again…
until it wasn’t. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had left all of the
hatches and windows open on the boat. There was water everywhere, inside and
out. We had left pillows and blankets in the cockpit and those were completely
soaked, as were all the beds in the staterooms. I don’t know why Theo and I
have regressed in the common sense department. We know exactly what needs to be
done before we leave the boat. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Oh well,
no major damage so far. Onward!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I find myself reliving my first few months onboard through
Daniela. I hear things like “Nothing dries here” and “The clothes smell
strange” or “All the knives are rusted!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I know this and do my best with it. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am accustomed to the fact that my shoes are always
a bit damp and my clothes are wrinkled. My kitchenware has aged rapidly in a
short four months. I am accustomed to occasionally finding random items, like
night vision goggles, resting on top of my bra and underwear basket… I just
move them aside and go on. I do not find it to be a serious problem. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It goes with the lifestyle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is the way it is and it’s okay.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We wanted to go to the dinner and traditional dance show at
the Tiki Village. The problem was that it began at 7pm and finished at 10:30pm.
That meant that we would have to drive the dinghy back at night again! We
talked about it and finally decided to do it and bring the brightest spotlight
we had. It was a very interesting evening. We had a tour of the village and
then sat in a square area with a pit in the center. They uncovered it and we
saw that they had cooked pork and other traditional dishes underground for six
hours. The buffet was amazing and we were all in food paradise!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Afterwards we watched the dance show and even
did some dancing ourselves… It was lovely and we all enjoyed ourselves. The
dinghy ride back to the boat turned out to be slow (as usual) and uneventful.
We even managed to avoid a partially submerged metal marker which had been
knocked down earlier in the day by a distracted ski boat. We were all very
happy and relaxed. Tomorrow will be August 5<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> and we will leave for
Papeete again. Jonathan and Ethan have a flight to New Zealand in the afternoon
and the Italians are also flying to Los Angeles for a few days before
continuing home to Rome. Theo and I will be alone for just a few days, and then
our next group of guests will arrive.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">LESSONS: <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While
feeding the stingrays, keep your hands filled with fish out of the water if
there are sharks around… better yet, do not feed the stingrays at all.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Dinghies have a drain plug. Do not forget to use it. We
keep an empty, plastic olive oil bottle with the bottom cut out in ours at all
times in case it inexplicably takes on water.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Memorize your route back to the boat during the day before
you have to do it by night, or get the strongest spotlight you can find.
Ideally, do both.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Never get into the water here without shoes… you will step
on something sharp.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Crabs can reach their claws underneath their bodies (in a
split second).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-If you don’t know what it is, don’t pick it up. Deadly
creatures here… when in doubt, leave it alone.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">QUOTES: <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Alma’s first
glimpse of Tahiti had been of abrupt mountain peaks rising hard into cloudless
cerulean skies. The sight grabbed the breath from her chest: not its beauty,
but its strangeness. She had no idea the place would be so tall, so
extraordinary. These were verdant and wild slopes – shockingly steep,
alarmingly jagged, staggeringly high, blindingly green. Everything about the
place was overdressed with green. Even right down to the beaches. Coconut palms
gave the impression of growing straight from the water itself.” – The Signature
of All Things – A Novel by Elizabeth Gilbert<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span lang="FR" style="mso-ansi-language: FR;">FRENCH: <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hop-la! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Desole.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Je ne l’ai pas fait expres – Oops! </span>Sorry about that. I didn't do
it on purpose.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span lang="FR" style="mso-ansi-language: FR;">Y a pas de mal! C’est pas grave ! – Don’t
Worry ! </span>No problem !<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">On va prendre un verre, si tu veux bien ? – Let’s<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>go out for a<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>drink, shall we ?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">OCEAN SIGHTINGS: Stingrays, Spotted Eagle Ray, Sharks, Sea
Turtles, Puffer Fish, Needle Fish, Parrot Fish and Flying Fish.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5sRbl8QO8OtRffltLoUGXXNtq6AXxzgam8aARM7tkvjmSK6GoeFUL9YQrWQm1Ok2g8GbAWcNMWKEF3gtCsRykfHnsKwSGO3K76wVnjUSAz4Zjr5OYs2E93sxj905PLy3yddR60FWkdKwR/s1600/IMG_1262+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5sRbl8QO8OtRffltLoUGXXNtq6AXxzgam8aARM7tkvjmSK6GoeFUL9YQrWQm1Ok2g8GbAWcNMWKEF3gtCsRykfHnsKwSGO3K76wVnjUSAz4Zjr5OYs2E93sxj905PLy3yddR60FWkdKwR/s1600/IMG_1262+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jonathan blowing out imaginary birthday candles</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYcr-oOS-vinR8k3tOLrfEpLEDAwHJ9uPCAgGIyBbDuMA0omEUxR-rIsQCJJ1FxxdCHyCuQtEoNqlXtMQBRh7sHTQ77jFLem0nlHc6z2oyzRvqeBun9j2Pz8TI88iegUkh08U7sk34y3rq/s1600/IMG_1231+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYcr-oOS-vinR8k3tOLrfEpLEDAwHJ9uPCAgGIyBbDuMA0omEUxR-rIsQCJJ1FxxdCHyCuQtEoNqlXtMQBRh7sHTQ77jFLem0nlHc6z2oyzRvqeBun9j2Pz8TI88iegUkh08U7sk34y3rq/s1600/IMG_1231+(Copy).JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ernesto and Theo getting dance lessons from Lucia</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYwam7tIFDAzv9FzQ3bz3HsNSzd-TC9qI4QKroZpyC-MdrAamnr3IEpeaCzTKzBcl0c940xPNpJz29gjb0HcXw0kGa2wS6ASJmAsugmp0br4oblgVQ4sqa2uMmmdit6v-toA3AqDGaxMpU/s1600/P1020004+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYwam7tIFDAzv9FzQ3bz3HsNSzd-TC9qI4QKroZpyC-MdrAamnr3IEpeaCzTKzBcl0c940xPNpJz29gjb0HcXw0kGa2wS6ASJmAsugmp0br4oblgVQ4sqa2uMmmdit6v-toA3AqDGaxMpU/s1600/P1020004+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This bird would not leave our dinghy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpJwzqd7lJeE3CTQ0q3KPtMALFXWGKLMl3cnZl1XMB5C_3PyBLh8qkoZ0af4z4ywHryg_9w1SgPYhIH3Y5zPoy9CqnAiYhrOZmeRvCKPmDQ4ximrvRWqhEtMzp5jurGlSZ-2Ry9nsJisNO/s1600/P1020082+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpJwzqd7lJeE3CTQ0q3KPtMALFXWGKLMl3cnZl1XMB5C_3PyBLh8qkoZ0af4z4ywHryg_9w1SgPYhIH3Y5zPoy9CqnAiYhrOZmeRvCKPmDQ4ximrvRWqhEtMzp5jurGlSZ-2Ry9nsJisNO/s1600/P1020082+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just another fish in the water</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimmCB_hkDo8CU9t0J1gmcGZC4QkvcdRtwgpnh1MfDss-aOtR5Wpu0kYgXAejsMReWRVofalsOG13-mt2IL8EC3Ne27nCR2LanKgo0OCjE_WS_1dcdlLRs3Es89CzcjFg2eyE5LGGM53S-9/s1600/P1020083+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimmCB_hkDo8CU9t0J1gmcGZC4QkvcdRtwgpnh1MfDss-aOtR5Wpu0kYgXAejsMReWRVofalsOG13-mt2IL8EC3Ne27nCR2LanKgo0OCjE_WS_1dcdlLRs3Es89CzcjFg2eyE5LGGM53S-9/s1600/P1020083+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jonathan surrounded by sharks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOh1a4VDT6-uUzeA0r8kitSjJa-vobQI7b9nl5xWoPA4369gUSspeXzeE3sIYJM42oIFQpz4ERf6O-nSAKcLyh774YsGanGsJl5pjvA2Z_RLRCluAyJMpn2KYJwzlPRX5pfECKPhQ3M3pH/s1600/P1020081+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOh1a4VDT6-uUzeA0r8kitSjJa-vobQI7b9nl5xWoPA4369gUSspeXzeE3sIYJM42oIFQpz4ERf6O-nSAKcLyh774YsGanGsJl5pjvA2Z_RLRCluAyJMpn2KYJwzlPRX5pfECKPhQ3M3pH/s1600/P1020081+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ethan screaming</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV_-oo-jyavxVg8gfLGFlUo1BNJbalHvOXkvBQg0fV5bXtkJpjn7g93LrvS_TRJzbZgQo87TEHflDi3hlMwTyRNKx3x0UmWJTOddCrYmI5-3hkrPJKB4Yu0itZXc6FbjrAbL3qViSNddK8/s1600/P1020096+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV_-oo-jyavxVg8gfLGFlUo1BNJbalHvOXkvBQg0fV5bXtkJpjn7g93LrvS_TRJzbZgQo87TEHflDi3hlMwTyRNKx3x0UmWJTOddCrYmI5-3hkrPJKB4Yu0itZXc6FbjrAbL3qViSNddK8/s1600/P1020096+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jump in..I dare you</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi44V0Pm9zARS5Tn_BjsdK53rSquiAeeIa9AkS6pv4Ipp5Y8ZZ4Qe3afwugTYQVbcR0MgW5hExJJkAJY9IEL20azB6h1H5RwRVV4fyeAqRXU7AVsLHV05e4b5IFsJdIDSDsSqs7evTAxHnM/s1600/P1020087+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi44V0Pm9zARS5Tn_BjsdK53rSquiAeeIa9AkS6pv4Ipp5Y8ZZ4Qe3afwugTYQVbcR0MgW5hExJJkAJY9IEL20azB6h1H5RwRVV4fyeAqRXU7AVsLHV05e4b5IFsJdIDSDsSqs7evTAxHnM/s1600/P1020087+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo and friends</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSxO7-QpekwxaI81jO-pGwJKJnfmsUMzDIf8Cq0U4sUTmOreYbag6AyYOLiRanvfiM6VssqUWwHtDCISTZp94pT01Cn9U2RYPmmYVxpNvHl2DkMYhLZVyGcy-M4Ty_SekDfEm1nyyeTBfp/s1600/P1020097+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSxO7-QpekwxaI81jO-pGwJKJnfmsUMzDIf8Cq0U4sUTmOreYbag6AyYOLiRanvfiM6VssqUWwHtDCISTZp94pT01Cn9U2RYPmmYVxpNvHl2DkMYhLZVyGcy-M4Ty_SekDfEm1nyyeTBfp/s1600/P1020097+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They follow him like puppies</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1j9Nux3KJ6dgtz_n5kvlWO5swSjgF1Oc9b0hhg3QSXWedd-2ACm5yU1fezKVvM9AqkxVg2u_c4izNr2pWQZASjbDRHd1u2oX0DY0sn2u7MyrAktH-eKn6tmnwud4GJcHgChBpAhvhBLFs/s1600/P1020331+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1j9Nux3KJ6dgtz_n5kvlWO5swSjgF1Oc9b0hhg3QSXWedd-2ACm5yU1fezKVvM9AqkxVg2u_c4izNr2pWQZASjbDRHd1u2oX0DY0sn2u7MyrAktH-eKn6tmnwud4GJcHgChBpAhvhBLFs/s1600/P1020331+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Stingray Whisperer</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwBSAXVCceaMAzhLgfY9eRgOCbcUYo8Phxilkqk4DvKDz6wc6-RuevQikxRIRSvjQZyOypLbPRbGQm_3BgREhrRFWMrx_fw3l3Afgk25VxZrXyeZIfWbRaa9F_kAdgbzuFEEdxvBSW2YZz/s1600/P1020392+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwBSAXVCceaMAzhLgfY9eRgOCbcUYo8Phxilkqk4DvKDz6wc6-RuevQikxRIRSvjQZyOypLbPRbGQm_3BgREhrRFWMrx_fw3l3Afgk25VxZrXyeZIfWbRaa9F_kAdgbzuFEEdxvBSW2YZz/s1600/P1020392+(Copy).JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo and Jonathan</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl9rU3xHrxmPR7aHIcUlW1RwUMDfYK9TMYdo4m0wIswh2AjqQ0KIEgTD2NjLtKpxivhHSDJI3WYvSCe5oqNm6rj6rgNFxn9nRCFxomz8NwvGOK5QdVGtopezbBxvok_ePF8O7OadhCeuzT/s1600/P1020429+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl9rU3xHrxmPR7aHIcUlW1RwUMDfYK9TMYdo4m0wIswh2AjqQ0KIEgTD2NjLtKpxivhHSDJI3WYvSCe5oqNm6rj6rgNFxn9nRCFxomz8NwvGOK5QdVGtopezbBxvok_ePF8O7OadhCeuzT/s1600/P1020429+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No caption needed</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPV0RCrxMP0Ws6t3ypBF6lH4TMGHBhg7iYiFhpPu1n75MmPfLX94gxTgZCLrDG14t-JNsrTI9XoMc3QiDRuV4o94PK5Tt4dDeH7bCVMb-7fTDpDZ6qWJJtM7YcrXbyRBUKr8GiilMwvMIu/s1600/P1020507+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPV0RCrxMP0Ws6t3ypBF6lH4TMGHBhg7iYiFhpPu1n75MmPfLX94gxTgZCLrDG14t-JNsrTI9XoMc3QiDRuV4o94PK5Tt4dDeH7bCVMb-7fTDpDZ6qWJJtM7YcrXbyRBUKr8GiilMwvMIu/s1600/P1020507+(Copy).JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Isabel never misses out on an adventure</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCcO0gsGTnhKe2HHwnM-1rjif5DVu9nJpEdakGXAhJ_8Te8SCfyqbCN08yAmXGcPlgHAdiqck2e7I0srxLooXJgKdjQcj7e2Q1WWYghrvn4G0iqy3uHwUUErcuBhLCG1bkzq3QSEM1Xi-m/s1600/P1020374+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCcO0gsGTnhKe2HHwnM-1rjif5DVu9nJpEdakGXAhJ_8Te8SCfyqbCN08yAmXGcPlgHAdiqck2e7I0srxLooXJgKdjQcj7e2Q1WWYghrvn4G0iqy3uHwUUErcuBhLCG1bkzq3QSEM1Xi-m/s1600/P1020374+(Copy).JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Like father...like son</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjGIAtYwfdAhqv4GVVelmlZ6NaxM6xhJMMoETrEkl36hE4vi6VksdCd7YM5l2mM097xZysebqbSSZ-DMOq5GsEuoh5-bsXi-VQyz1Hp4kxjcqTegl2VC2xWJX05zw3iruKfbtWffDE9tWu/s1600/P1020043+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjGIAtYwfdAhqv4GVVelmlZ6NaxM6xhJMMoETrEkl36hE4vi6VksdCd7YM5l2mM097xZysebqbSSZ-DMOq5GsEuoh5-bsXi-VQyz1Hp4kxjcqTegl2VC2xWJX05zw3iruKfbtWffDE9tWu/s1600/P1020043+(Copy).JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Daniela and Ernesto</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgydtWy6YV_nfAyOFP7fTdQDRGPg1jTLaxRSB6xOCrwEonA-EJwGlDxWyBe0bSN7TFJfklp3ysBuGJHw8I_9EmhlPqN7-v19tuH9w6NEVjsB59BIjct9Qa8prOMqIMkkVNY8xcN0uOIcpgu/s1600/P1020106+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgydtWy6YV_nfAyOFP7fTdQDRGPg1jTLaxRSB6xOCrwEonA-EJwGlDxWyBe0bSN7TFJfklp3ysBuGJHw8I_9EmhlPqN7-v19tuH9w6NEVjsB59BIjct9Qa8prOMqIMkkVNY8xcN0uOIcpgu/s1600/P1020106+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All of us</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0aGUR9CKUD5ee4Zyi7PIujCmWAPoEICLOQ5GP80kFWm15HEu8ABztqz5ZT-WzJEmL2Zx4AUOrdXI_EDrjRc55gvojCJgwUxt63ZemrpNH3hAv_kxUdfWrYe74n2Pv7_WUfXC4nsYf-dUp/s1600/P1020116+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0aGUR9CKUD5ee4Zyi7PIujCmWAPoEICLOQ5GP80kFWm15HEu8ABztqz5ZT-WzJEmL2Zx4AUOrdXI_EDrjRc55gvojCJgwUxt63ZemrpNH3hAv_kxUdfWrYe74n2Pv7_WUfXC4nsYf-dUp/s1600/P1020116+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Best friends</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgElUgBVCWCquqAy8ME1sIbur6cizVs8DQSDssG2sofug851_DiiixdEJ2Mmdk75tWF-a8YDqmP3j1x2ujFPg4IGeMUin6HXNl5lrtjIA9R9Io_qf6CUWcBy-9loTsre_Kq9IaXqSvLGsF-/s1600/P1020122+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgElUgBVCWCquqAy8ME1sIbur6cizVs8DQSDssG2sofug851_DiiixdEJ2Mmdk75tWF-a8YDqmP3j1x2ujFPg4IGeMUin6HXNl5lrtjIA9R9Io_qf6CUWcBy-9loTsre_Kq9IaXqSvLGsF-/s1600/P1020122+(Copy).JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ernesto is a lucky man</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc70HlA0-g_8lQuh_9OagSWetie10YzRTkXO5fDOwUuNXPuIvJ01yanWBRQ4d1ACvPiJiibskws_RUrbwrxyNCIdL3Je1gv8mVliBh5grRhv7TAjA5iPooem0UYGd8p3RA3h23bnRsbzEX/s1600/P1020103+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc70HlA0-g_8lQuh_9OagSWetie10YzRTkXO5fDOwUuNXPuIvJ01yanWBRQ4d1ACvPiJiibskws_RUrbwrxyNCIdL3Je1gv8mVliBh5grRhv7TAjA5iPooem0UYGd8p3RA3h23bnRsbzEX/s1600/P1020103+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Birthday lunch with Jonny</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiLNNGfmLZHUep3Rgmn7_HEzccOkIsssEstMMqOYGcygERbCxIa9nbWiD-BQYeCiuCBO5kffElsUvDCZfttNoZ3m7ru3vUGVwOlMYqn_rW3j4nC1_t-jzF3m6ox4xdEJP28BazeCijwOiv/s1600/P1020326+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiLNNGfmLZHUep3Rgmn7_HEzccOkIsssEstMMqOYGcygERbCxIa9nbWiD-BQYeCiuCBO5kffElsUvDCZfttNoZ3m7ru3vUGVwOlMYqn_rW3j4nC1_t-jzF3m6ox4xdEJP28BazeCijwOiv/s1600/P1020326+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jonny and Lucia</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBlWThElfFD4w2zZRZkkhfRt4GdnCubuQJ5LgjlCUlsptorkJvbOS9_ZsC4p0SRln9vNPYTtv-77V9CptJ-gfleXun2SwgOolNxPbDKSBRteDmEp82PxR-is_Nr2dwdakYBfDpDB1Lvcna/s1600/P1020304+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBlWThElfFD4w2zZRZkkhfRt4GdnCubuQJ5LgjlCUlsptorkJvbOS9_ZsC4p0SRln9vNPYTtv-77V9CptJ-gfleXun2SwgOolNxPbDKSBRteDmEp82PxR-is_Nr2dwdakYBfDpDB1Lvcna/s1600/P1020304+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ernesto thinks he is in Venice, Italy</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj75bI3a1bp3FQ2Nx7CktY2PJJbgiHcOY_F5T4ys4ATBaPM89hecYgIQ2ZDpa0nqpTAzit53EjTslkq7SocSqxZQpVpPUM950o_bOVXkOCBiQKSzK_gVYUJYrlK-3Xv1hTT4qqHDfiVefSI/s1600/P1020353+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj75bI3a1bp3FQ2Nx7CktY2PJJbgiHcOY_F5T4ys4ATBaPM89hecYgIQ2ZDpa0nqpTAzit53EjTslkq7SocSqxZQpVpPUM950o_bOVXkOCBiQKSzK_gVYUJYrlK-3Xv1hTT4qqHDfiVefSI/s1600/P1020353+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Giulia and Lucia....they are so close...I love it!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9AFcGTF64zMS6FYYeIKSb5ojsWZe-7-kWvXPlYzdjhjNOpdGnmgeEokP7IMbdlI9QZhyphenhyphenl5Dv3v86O96Cq2aPGS5mgCvT-4ktbm8tze-r9w9P4yYCYl6BttHNA0IJrm-pKUUk-GrRwnJM9/s1600/P1020033+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9AFcGTF64zMS6FYYeIKSb5ojsWZe-7-kWvXPlYzdjhjNOpdGnmgeEokP7IMbdlI9QZhyphenhyphenl5Dv3v86O96Cq2aPGS5mgCvT-4ktbm8tze-r9w9P4yYCYl6BttHNA0IJrm-pKUUk-GrRwnJM9/s1600/P1020033+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A fun dinner out...this was taken just before our famous dinghy ride back to the catamaran in the dark.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw8atR9XE4N8Tsg4C5O9fXrqi5AKauas72ZwSMOlLAPCzonAGWqljaU6rJ5e_89t6rKWb6LVx8HtmNyOAFNgT-I9xci7JQhhW0mq2igPzu5zZ_o2_EJ-pu0UHfDqSw1TtKGwwcv5cZAIp8/s1600/P1020142+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw8atR9XE4N8Tsg4C5O9fXrqi5AKauas72ZwSMOlLAPCzonAGWqljaU6rJ5e_89t6rKWb6LVx8HtmNyOAFNgT-I9xci7JQhhW0mq2igPzu5zZ_o2_EJ-pu0UHfDqSw1TtKGwwcv5cZAIp8/s1600/P1020142+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Watching our dinner being excavated</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Our special dinner at the Tiki Village...uncovered! Pork and other traditional dishes</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tiki Village dinner and dancing</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The girls were infatuated with the tall drummer!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dancing with Giulia and Lucia</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Entering Opunohu Bay for our hike</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Keep climbing...you are almost there!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the Belvedere lookout...you can see Opunohu and Cook's Bay</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03471059532461159422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3358276371486559811.post-36485363385225861082014-06-30T16:44:00.001-07:002015-02-06T13:46:59.513-08:00Tuamotu & Tahiti<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>June 10-15, 2014<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Rotoava<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Fakarava, Tuamotu<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We sailed to the North coast of Fakarava and anchored in
front of a red roofed church in the village of Rotoava. We really enjoyed our
stay here. The diving and snorkeling was better in the South pass, but the village
and people here made it very memorable. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For example, Theo woke up “early” one morning
to buy a fresh baguette for breakfast. When he arrived, all the bread was sold
out. As he was walking away empty handed (and undoubtedly sulking), the woman
from the bakery ran after him and gave him a baguette that she had saved for
her family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He did not want to take it,
but she insisted. Later that day, we bought many things from her store. Everyone
is so kind and generous.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">There is one thing I have not mentioned yet. The locals can
pronounce our last name correctly, but no one (and I mean no one) can pronounce
THEO. We introduce ourselves, and when I say “Wanda” they say “Like the fish”
or “Ooh La La!” and shake their hips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>When we say “Theo”, there is a painful look of both confusion and concentration
on their faces, and then after much thought…”PHIL?” So after many attempts of
being sincere about Theo’s name, we have finally settled on Phil… so, there it
is. Et Voila… Phil.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We love meeting people on the boats around us. We had drinks
onboard Andiamo, a catamaran from Florida, sailed by a nice couple and their
son. We sat around and laughed at our silly sailing stories, and quietly
pondered the more serious ones. While at lunch we met Claudia and Tierry from Switzerland.
We have found out that word gets around quickly here... cruising the South
Pacific is a small community after all. We are known as the boat with the two
dogs and the <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>boat that customs officers
fell in the water in Ua Pou. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have now
been told that the same customs boat hit a coral reef somewhere in the
Marquesas. This does not come as much of a surprise to us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I could get really, really comfortable in Fakarava. The
atoll is peaceful and lovely. We have a nice balance of feeling far away from everything,
but at the same time, we have conveniences. We can walk or ride bicycles to get
anywhere we want. We have found a few restaurants with enjoyable food and the
markets have greens, eggs and I even found tofu!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Happiness… simple.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Theo and I bantered a bit about whether or not to leave.
Finally it was decided that we should move on to Toau. I really want to
experience this atoll, so we are moving on. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fakarava North Pass...our dinghy dock.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No words needed...<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Et Voila' anchorage</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRq1zEXHQ6JXpRE4TAOc1xq8fOq4KYmwFD2UZPrp0eAbw2Hk_dj8VzilOX_vAxkLltSIgArkXdH8468IVq3LkwrSl2b4PiZYhakE9xu8SN69B0jIFS3tcbWifl6jLA26S43YzFUYWIrVPj/s1600/P1010580+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRq1zEXHQ6JXpRE4TAOc1xq8fOq4KYmwFD2UZPrp0eAbw2Hk_dj8VzilOX_vAxkLltSIgArkXdH8468IVq3LkwrSl2b4PiZYhakE9xu8SN69B0jIFS3tcbWifl6jLA26S43YzFUYWIrVPj/s1600/P1010580+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Children playing while we were riding our bicycles through town.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKZQrorh5zmSlXHvb0__bZXwUQ89Ojy8OcCjAMf0M7jwhO7FhIGYWzBX6f4SNplJgB_Ol6768Jk6cyqRRVUhnfKNs_hbHB2T14kMdFWR0R_S0ulQWuafEvqdL3iI8ZHhqoEMSIZ4yvo7hw/s1600/P1010615+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKZQrorh5zmSlXHvb0__bZXwUQ89Ojy8OcCjAMf0M7jwhO7FhIGYWzBX6f4SNplJgB_Ol6768Jk6cyqRRVUhnfKNs_hbHB2T14kMdFWR0R_S0ulQWuafEvqdL3iI8ZHhqoEMSIZ4yvo7hw/s1600/P1010615+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSV3fpMT0s5759uLLVTGdFwHS2OsEADFv7g4JxMjuGrOz5ohpJghPQqAJ5fLIm4LYm0EH-cifpHor4QBxkzdWnJhO-dXFoXIqIswnV7_9rbjUlFR_IP3oLN9JHkAits1QPs6CdD0gVA5Ui/s1600/P1010617+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSV3fpMT0s5759uLLVTGdFwHS2OsEADFv7g4JxMjuGrOz5ohpJghPQqAJ5fLIm4LYm0EH-cifpHor4QBxkzdWnJhO-dXFoXIqIswnV7_9rbjUlFR_IP3oLN9JHkAits1QPs6CdD0gVA5Ui/s1600/P1010617+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I had not ridden a bicycle for one year!!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fakarava Pearl Farm</td></tr>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Lesson: You must go to the market VERY early to purchase
bread here.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Quotes: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Wherever
you go, go with all your heart.” Confucius<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Kindness
is the language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see.” Mark Twain<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I
still believe, in spite of everything, that people are truly good at heart.”
Anne Frank<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">French: Velo – Bicycle<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ya-t-il
une boulangerie par ici? – Is there a bakery around here ?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Oui, il
est tot – Yes, it is early<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>C’est gentil de votre part – That is
kind of you<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>June 15 – 19, 2014<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Anes Amyot<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<strong>
</strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Toau, Tuamotu<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We arrived in Anes Amyot around 4:30pm. This is an extremely
tranquil anchorage on the northern tip of Toau. Gaston and Valentine live here
and that is pretty much all there is. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After we moored, we jumped in the dinghy to go
say hello to them. Once on shore we saw that they had an intimate little party
going on. Gaston had made rum drinks and it seemed they had been enjoying them
for a while! This did not help the introductions AT ALL. I told them my name
was Wanda and they said “Oh, you are a fish!” I am used to this and I am okay
with it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When Theo introduced himself to
Gaston, he got an alcohol fueled look of confusion and concentration. Gaston
looked him straight in the eye and said “Steel, it is nice to meet you…Valentine,
this is Steel!” Theo and I just glanced at each other and shrugged… Steel it is.
We sat down and had a taste of Gaston’s Rum creation and it was quite good. We
asked if they needed anything because they are so isolated it must be difficult
to get any supplies delivered. Valentine said she needed kibble for her five
dogs and olive oil. No problem, we had plenty of that to share. Gaston gave
Steel a big emotional embrace, and very genuinely told him that no one ever
asks if they need anything… (What??). He went on to say that he had drank too
much rum to think at the moment, and if we could please ask him again tomorrow.
No worries…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The next morning, we brought the dog food and olive oil to
Valentine. She was a bit cranky, but grateful. It turned out that their diesel generator
and telephone were not working. They were in the dark and disconnected! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She told us they had a gasoline powered
generator as a backup, but they had no gas. We went to the boat and brought 8
liters of fuel so they could cook and have lights in the evening. They were
very happy and decided that they were going to prepare a special dinner for us
and any other cruisers that wanted to join. Valentine told Steel to go to the
pigpen and pick a pig so they could prepare it for the special dinner…. My husband
loves pork, but he could not do this. Who was he to decide the fate of a poor
pig? Gaston ended up going lobster fishing on the reef instead. Personally, I
was very relieved.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We spent the day of the dinner with Valentine and Gaston
cleaning and preparing the food. I swept the floors, cut vegetables for poisson
cru, set the table and gathered flowers. Meanwhile, Steel was raking the yard,
husking and grating coconuts, and made milk for the coconut cake and bread. It
smelled soooo incredibly wonderful! Somehow, Steel got the job of “chopping”
the live lobsters in half for the barbeque. He was not comfortable with this,
but other people were watching and he had to put on an act of bravery. If it
were not for his deep tan, he would have been white as a ghost. Poor lobsters… In
the end we had the table set for ten, and the company and food was fantastic. I
ate too much, which gave me bad dreams, but it was worth it!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When I spent the day
with Valentine helping to prepare dinner, we talked about our lives. Theo is my
best friend, but he is a man. I needed some girl time! She eventually told me
her mother had died of breast cancer, so I told her about what I had
experienced a year ago. She began talking of Jesus and her faith… I listened
with an open heart and mind. I am not a religious person. That being said, this
world is vast and there are so many things that I have no explanation for. I
know there is an energy that powers it and guides us as humans. I have learned
to trust it. The morning we were to leave Anse Amyot, Valentine and Gaston said
they wanted to sing and pray for us. We were honored and felt it was the best
gift they could have offered us. We read from the Bible and sang songs while
Valentine played her ukulele. In the end, they put their hands on us and prayed
from their hearts. It was beautiful and I will never forget it… (I felt a bit
guilty when they were praying for “Steel” though). We had our tearful goodbyes
and Valentine said I was like her sister. When we left the mooring, Gaston blew
three times into a conch shell to say goodbye. I will miss them very much… It
was the best feeling ever.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Valentine and Gaston’s Menu:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Appetizer – Homemade focaccia with tomato, herbs, peppers,
cheese and fish<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Main course – Chicken curry with vegetables, Poisson Cru,
Fried freshly caught fish with rice and coconut bread. The grand finale was the
Lobster, right off the barbeque. Delicious…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Dessert – Homemade coconut cake<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaJdVrTLes2GCuJl12EG67aDl-1yZu8jubUcWN_KgkXbKwjDnSgUtfo62Z6Ww3tKm5Akz243X7kYA4eLrzu5Ao4xFS_hTiha6Khodk5Ju4KKLkdtjLb1kDA9SkGkBXz8h9ewhyX7N-W6vf/s1600/P1010736+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaJdVrTLes2GCuJl12EG67aDl-1yZu8jubUcWN_KgkXbKwjDnSgUtfo62Z6Ww3tKm5Akz243X7kYA4eLrzu5Ao4xFS_hTiha6Khodk5Ju4KKLkdtjLb1kDA9SkGkBXz8h9ewhyX7N-W6vf/s1600/P1010736+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Steel" and friends husking coconuts for dinner.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWn_9zBJqaHNNMsKzbRJ0-UpD9j1h1sH8g-hPDlXuA-TIYycEq7894eGGqUi7Q-mQfr7h0EbTG7E3n0KSi4kYLiWz4i3cT1zpn-hHed5bqn9kXzPHNm_BQlONdRJ36F6E21TAn-bOzu70j/s1600/P1010772+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWn_9zBJqaHNNMsKzbRJ0-UpD9j1h1sH8g-hPDlXuA-TIYycEq7894eGGqUi7Q-mQfr7h0EbTG7E3n0KSi4kYLiWz4i3cT1zpn-hHed5bqn9kXzPHNm_BQlONdRJ36F6E21TAn-bOzu70j/s1600/P1010772+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shredding and cracking coconuts<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJJXrJt9r1uBmQF5xpK0ejZTnGCYBz9Gj-ItAu-yN0Qnz_gM_WGlV70BRAD76F7t7KJTSkMYFGpJRid6arEjkIAhSvuaLd8B9ia6krWhDzlBmJkG8EbFc00YOCzm_qb2T1xyW3hZNhFqoh/s1600/P1010780+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJJXrJt9r1uBmQF5xpK0ejZTnGCYBz9Gj-ItAu-yN0Qnz_gM_WGlV70BRAD76F7t7KJTSkMYFGpJRid6arEjkIAhSvuaLd8B9ia6krWhDzlBmJkG8EbFc00YOCzm_qb2T1xyW3hZNhFqoh/s1600/P1010780+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Making fresh coconut milk.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZtdOuk1joXiJz5-L432PJkE4U9EZ-uGadbOxwMf0KxXvQ4ci8O4UyDC1gCFYBw-gTN6y8npmEAC_mPnrIS47YIBIycsK5Ayy36wiwq4gXW1VvqPMwSixodxKmQnGKELifczWoT2ikwadG/s1600/P1010752+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZtdOuk1joXiJz5-L432PJkE4U9EZ-uGadbOxwMf0KxXvQ4ci8O4UyDC1gCFYBw-gTN6y8npmEAC_mPnrIS47YIBIycsK5Ayy36wiwq4gXW1VvqPMwSixodxKmQnGKELifczWoT2ikwadG/s1600/P1010752+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweeping the yard.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglW64ATAbq3VSYgyHw3vCyoJu9YCIyE5D2CQYoe7suRDZQtVRAWblWVUWHmD72_tlK9x6B2eCLgN9siKLdifOMDMfxDjZ4lYf4i-GEo8CYbs8q2fBhuNpFVHuxoHm2Ok_nsYEUosOnCd2s/s1600/P1010758+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglW64ATAbq3VSYgyHw3vCyoJu9YCIyE5D2CQYoe7suRDZQtVRAWblWVUWHmD72_tlK9x6B2eCLgN9siKLdifOMDMfxDjZ4lYf4i-GEo8CYbs8q2fBhuNpFVHuxoHm2Ok_nsYEUosOnCd2s/s1600/P1010758+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Preparing vegetables and having girl time with Valentine.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arranging flowers gathered from the atoll.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The boys putting lobsters with eggs back in the pen.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY62l2_LHAvkVmsseFDe04OO3SirrZDKUj_Le5jlwxRaWgUH1LaODnSf3LCP635aVBAf2inQ0HIgX0teZQuNR0kK3VyX93Y-oz9NeOPBE9vFpVT5SkvRxI23HGU-EyiZtiEHVVdZx6J45v/s1600/P1010808+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY62l2_LHAvkVmsseFDe04OO3SirrZDKUj_Le5jlwxRaWgUH1LaODnSf3LCP635aVBAf2inQ0HIgX0teZQuNR0kK3VyX93Y-oz9NeOPBE9vFpVT5SkvRxI23HGU-EyiZtiEHVVdZx6J45v/s1600/P1010808+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gaston's catch.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh65o9UwlAQhaU1yBbkjZRonU9ZC3B_8RgaYjRHiq25wptKUuFtyOtzcPeZiNqJJQdCmwzRmvXUMzyS_RNU6fcqOr7lLg8Cz8cU1e7HUUgar075ND9ARyupjow8nMcrjoK6gYoP5HrI7yw5/s1600/P1010842+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh65o9UwlAQhaU1yBbkjZRonU9ZC3B_8RgaYjRHiq25wptKUuFtyOtzcPeZiNqJJQdCmwzRmvXUMzyS_RNU6fcqOr7lLg8Cz8cU1e7HUUgar075ND9ARyupjow8nMcrjoK6gYoP5HrI7yw5/s1600/P1010842+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chopping.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbo3VlmNFuiBk-38h6eSijatLwEu8QtgTmzEdIsalLwwFnOqg7P3AlXgGo9cgI2N8UVzjdPz3eppugSQ4HJn0BYhAnJYWp2Jddi2nSkAb-OT0lb2m7VT6uWukvY7bETS8I9oUjB1XL77Cn/s1600/P1010849+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbo3VlmNFuiBk-38h6eSijatLwEu8QtgTmzEdIsalLwwFnOqg7P3AlXgGo9cgI2N8UVzjdPz3eppugSQ4HJn0BYhAnJYWp2Jddi2nSkAb-OT0lb2m7VT6uWukvY7bETS8I9oUjB1XL77Cn/s1600/P1010849+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The freshest Lobster ever...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhedcnHTpoBroaxY5cCNJ43GOl25rljVJK-snAa6r3QUTQMwKQWB86lbiYdPMdV4DTFwcevZ7QcpfaLhCAPt8XCO5V2zgnLNIMwCRDpWoLaUBNwwNP9QRsA79f9hQ1yyqPBPGTZ4eD-F0rS/s1600/P1010799+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhedcnHTpoBroaxY5cCNJ43GOl25rljVJK-snAa6r3QUTQMwKQWB86lbiYdPMdV4DTFwcevZ7QcpfaLhCAPt8XCO5V2zgnLNIMwCRDpWoLaUBNwwNP9QRsA79f9hQ1yyqPBPGTZ4eD-F0rS/s1600/P1010799+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our dinner location.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our dinghy and Et Voila' in the background.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Lesson: Do not wear a white shirt while you are “chopping”
lobsters for dinner.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<o:p></o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Quotes: “People are just about as happy as they make up
their minds to be.” Abraham Lincoln<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Happiness does not depend on what you have or who you are; it solely
relies on what you <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>think.” Buddha<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value.” Albert Einstein<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Prayer is not an old woman’s idle
amusement. Properly understood and applied, it is the most potent instrument of
action.” Mahatma Gandhi<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">French: Il s’appelle Theo – His name is Theo<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>C’est une plaisir – It’s a pleasure<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>C’est du gateau – A piece of cake<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>C’est
beaucoup – It’s a lot<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>C’est
pour vous – It’s for you<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>June 19, 2014<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<strong>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Totoro Motu<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<strong>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Apataki, Tuamotu<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We are sailing to Apataki, but we are apprehensive. Mambo is
not well. He has been swimming with us a lot while in the Tuamotu and seems
relaxed and happy, but he is unusually tired. He sleeps all day after the
swims. One morning I noticed that he was not walking normally… he looked like
he could not keep his balance. Suddenly his whole body tensed up and he could
not move.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We made him as comfortable as
possible and after a few hours, he seemed to go back to his regular free
spirited self. We still don’t know what happened to him. We called our veterinarian
back home who has known Mambo since he was a puppy, and he said it may have
been his heart. He still wants to go swimming and kayaking with us, so we have
been doing that with him, but suddenly he does not want to eat or drink. We will
leave for Tahiti and find a veterinarian as soon as possible.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOPe07ySpeTem-uQ5TD3OO0JnTRdzLHRahLhJgEswzyjOhy6TihUZp0NYfVmBntmVkVZoWYK7-qJ6CWidej4sUT2t5PpNJFq2y-clP2VQAwLNVfitEZvPKEr96zujNEOSXXfoaDQl7c3ia/s1600/P1010867+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOPe07ySpeTem-uQ5TD3OO0JnTRdzLHRahLhJgEswzyjOhy6TihUZp0NYfVmBntmVkVZoWYK7-qJ6CWidej4sUT2t5PpNJFq2y-clP2VQAwLNVfitEZvPKEr96zujNEOSXXfoaDQl7c3ia/s1600/P1010867+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entering the South Pass</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIsAs7kHKL2KklqotqNgWl7xAzHDNQVTYAnaS9FQaFem3agkuqOLJ0jsXGK_6CRiK_8fk0QVsgs-b7kzJKDlzCd2KSujeVFxK_B1Uv4RTyBhxn0qbPCNMvt5ZQZ0KRdvu9NubmJcPNeU7-/s1600/P1010878+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIsAs7kHKL2KklqotqNgWl7xAzHDNQVTYAnaS9FQaFem3agkuqOLJ0jsXGK_6CRiK_8fk0QVsgs-b7kzJKDlzCd2KSujeVFxK_B1Uv4RTyBhxn0qbPCNMvt5ZQZ0KRdvu9NubmJcPNeU7-/s1600/P1010878+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The dangerous current...do not attempt this at home.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZlXdg0FLZ3PgJE05lCVQRJQQnMa1gJ9h0BjWkLobv95dzhyphenhyphengQBg1zNYDVJmHNs98vw2zx5cMFsbZ8UOG_C2KSgb0uqShEuOmF6V7taszdeycR4xS9R7585n5sg-j8J1UVqPt4lXA8JJwq/s1600/P1010883+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZlXdg0FLZ3PgJE05lCVQRJQQnMa1gJ9h0BjWkLobv95dzhyphenhyphengQBg1zNYDVJmHNs98vw2zx5cMFsbZ8UOG_C2KSgb0uqShEuOmF6V7taszdeycR4xS9R7585n5sg-j8J1UVqPt4lXA8JJwq/s1600/P1010883+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our anchorage</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKhmo9Ka2NF0a-EhBGNB5pRJNOLMkcv05KmoQ73KkglvlyoBVHKMZeyRW15GQbPS0EXxhq3mHoN3vOcSSuLPFZigeXJsWUBo22H6vAR26mzKaV7PPDq5S9INopCGyKAULo-1qUynw46r3j/s1600/P1010911+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKhmo9Ka2NF0a-EhBGNB5pRJNOLMkcv05KmoQ73KkglvlyoBVHKMZeyRW15GQbPS0EXxhq3mHoN3vOcSSuLPFZigeXJsWUBo22H6vAR26mzKaV7PPDq5S9INopCGyKAULo-1qUynw46r3j/s1600/P1010911+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sometimes strolling you see the weirdest things....???</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>June 21, 2014<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<strong>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Sailing to Tahiti<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We have left Apataki for Tahiti. We want to leave the atoll
through the Northern Pass because the Southern Pass is too scary. There are
many dangerous coral platforms in the atoll that are not charted. We left at a
time when the sun was facing us and it was very difficult to see. Theo and I
both watched from the bow for two hours. It was stressful, but we managed to
not hit anything. One of the catamarans that we have gotten to know did hit a
reef in Fakarava. They lost a propeller and bent one of their rudders badly. We
were grateful and relieved when we finally exited the atoll.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We are hoping there is a Veterinarian in Tahiti
that can help Mambo. Our sail to Tahiti was two nights. The ocean was kind to
us, thank goodness. Not much wind, so we motored most of the way. Theo and I
switched watch every two hours. We continued to give Mambo love and tried to
keep him comfortable. He was not doing well at all… his breathing was labored.
I made his favorite chicken and he managed to eat. I think he enjoyed it, but
he was still not drinking water.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>June 23 - 29, 2014<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<strong>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Papeete, Tahiti<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We arrived in Tahiti, anchored at the Tahiti Yacht Club and
had a veterinarian on board within the hour. He thought Mambo had developed an
infection. He gave him an anti-inflammatory shot and antibiotic shot, gave us
his card and left. Mambo passed away a few hours later. Theo and I are
bewildered. We knew he was older and there was a risk bringing him with us, but
we were hoping for the best. I desperately want to believe that he was happy.
Mambo spent the last few months of his life being loved, cuddled and swimming
in the ocean… his favorite pastime. Three days before he died, he was swimming
while we were snorkeling in Apataki. He was loved and we were with him at the
end. Our arrival in Tahiti is incredibly sad.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2qyyjYjcLuxuOD5lRZWte0BUGQPQO76JW03Rk5OF9kkHmTdtDEbt8xgLwoZdspXT1GwrvufxFHQxKpk3VZCEgfQ8T5wrga_QxIvHIu1yBTVYsAw4nGXU0HBq2Ebl9CniE3AIDQOCT5c95/s1600/P4050039+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2qyyjYjcLuxuOD5lRZWte0BUGQPQO76JW03Rk5OF9kkHmTdtDEbt8xgLwoZdspXT1GwrvufxFHQxKpk3VZCEgfQ8T5wrga_QxIvHIu1yBTVYsAw4nGXU0HBq2Ebl9CniE3AIDQOCT5c95/s1600/P4050039+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leaving Catalina for the Marquesas...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQQNZlv3xkJobiBNx3kbcuxq3dB_Sf0Kg4RCyPY78DZ7JcVX8L1ndIaOpOswWi6s9Iv-GMgM3Gy0LwUxaC96Stc5Ejj7apV4ERnGbHqOaTaI5_NVUX-P7uTIw817aixs3i9jRrE6JdIWvL/s1600/P1000463+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQQNZlv3xkJobiBNx3kbcuxq3dB_Sf0Kg4RCyPY78DZ7JcVX8L1ndIaOpOswWi6s9Iv-GMgM3Gy0LwUxaC96Stc5Ejj7apV4ERnGbHqOaTaI5_NVUX-P7uTIw817aixs3i9jRrE6JdIWvL/s1600/P1000463+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Comfortable on the Catamaran...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ1DhGkD31D1wqNN-Rg_E-wq1axyK7dNB-h53nokcHg3Geyf3B2vOkCw5NQw1T3Ppf2aoYGT3BKx54bdeY7KgZwKssB3QSExD22cEVYi7tqpRyX4i65RxcJMm5SvJnQw1GN7wCOirWyrTo/s1600/P1010382+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ1DhGkD31D1wqNN-Rg_E-wq1axyK7dNB-h53nokcHg3Geyf3B2vOkCw5NQw1T3Ppf2aoYGT3BKx54bdeY7KgZwKssB3QSExD22cEVYi7tqpRyX4i65RxcJMm5SvJnQw1GN7wCOirWyrTo/s1600/P1010382+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy in the ocean...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmuwYQqiwzeJoXBi12j2udwT7V0737X1JuQeUMHex9pgSHTIKDGIgnDCHEgoVsLfl74_mbRNYgeBZ2tIRPrRroIODZfkHHB3DTLO6C2SGqYt_inp8nw7N7kpKMNV1VvHVidYaFgjxqn1P3/s1600/P1010471+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmuwYQqiwzeJoXBi12j2udwT7V0737X1JuQeUMHex9pgSHTIKDGIgnDCHEgoVsLfl74_mbRNYgeBZ2tIRPrRroIODZfkHHB3DTLO6C2SGqYt_inp8nw7N7kpKMNV1VvHVidYaFgjxqn1P3/s1600/P1010471+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Best Friend...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnSqEJYD3ZxiGcR7fvfi7iL2mAA40gOI6Xul6E5A_ERZwm3F2LW47Mp1Tkz27HSzGSVQbrrVztmECzt0CehjwuWNzYAsk6tmUdSx4SAdxNpFdqL2cjTbm_t0HDTjzDpKJpD833WDxxKlSw/s1600/P1010709+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnSqEJYD3ZxiGcR7fvfi7iL2mAA40gOI6Xul6E5A_ERZwm3F2LW47Mp1Tkz27HSzGSVQbrrVztmECzt0CehjwuWNzYAsk6tmUdSx4SAdxNpFdqL2cjTbm_t0HDTjzDpKJpD833WDxxKlSw/s1600/P1010709+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Swimming companions...always.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheOKTw98StjJONiDhkj47fl_X0CLEksSY94z5M64MFjAbCa0yEXc4Ft0rRx2p9gAZUiPyOw727C0EG2YwESD3UI9AibNyIeaImHKD-Tf-1cg1rv6HhF-Wozso3srgFK7zXklKNGhf0lQOn/s1600/P1010689+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheOKTw98StjJONiDhkj47fl_X0CLEksSY94z5M64MFjAbCa0yEXc4Ft0rRx2p9gAZUiPyOw727C0EG2YwESD3UI9AibNyIeaImHKD-Tf-1cg1rv6HhF-Wozso3srgFK7zXklKNGhf0lQOn/s1600/P1010689+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Admiring the coconut crabs in Toau.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKZH9SOEEnDgesYteNRGA6HvQXCWKP8fLDdBGI2qoqIwPm0Z_CgjgD56ObF-ZcFeMfxYdForfE8AHUt8qaRw4gl3GF9YRVEDt8ub2CsT-f1jwfef3hmzFRlQi4-mOQzr1yjPTpvPSiLQvh/s1600/P1010711+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKZH9SOEEnDgesYteNRGA6HvQXCWKP8fLDdBGI2qoqIwPm0Z_CgjgD56ObF-ZcFeMfxYdForfE8AHUt8qaRw4gl3GF9YRVEDt8ub2CsT-f1jwfef3hmzFRlQi4-mOQzr1yjPTpvPSiLQvh/s1600/P1010711+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="320" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The oldest puppy we ever knew... keep swimming big boy...We will always love you.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Theo and I are stunned and walking around in a daze. Loosing
Mambo will take time to accept. Isabel seems okay, but she is alone now when we
go onshore. We showed all of her documents and immunization records to the
Department of Agriculture, but they still do not want her on land. This is
troubling news and now we have to decide if it will be best to fly her home to
live with our daughter when we go to New Zealand in November. I have faith that
it will all work out somehow.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We are currently anchored at the Yacht Club (sounds fancy,
but it isn’t) because it was the first anchorage to get to. Now we are
contemplating going to Marina Taina, but we wanted to go look at it before
moving the catamaran. We got our bicycles ready and rode the 12 miles to the
marina. The only good thing about doing this was that it was so incredibly frightening
that it temporarily distracted our minds away from Mambo and onto our present
predicament. It was like bike riding without a helmet in downtown Los Angeles
during rush hour, only there is hardly a sidewalk or bike lane. For me
personally, crossing the Pacific Ocean was much less scary than riding a
bicycle on the streets here. After two and a half months of being in quiet,
remote places, Tahiti will take time to get used to. We are back in a world of
traffic, billboards, exhaust fumes, sirens, leaf blowers (my pet peeve) and
cell phone hypnotism. I am not complaining… just stating the facts. Once we arrived
at the marina, we saw that we recognized a lot of the boats that were there. On
the upside, the marina has a marine parts store, laundry machines, water, two
restaurants and it is walking distance to a giant grocery store. We are moving
tomorrow.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It is Saturday and there is a lot going on in Tahiti, markets,
dancing and canoe races. It is fun to see. I am flying home on Monday to visit
family and friends and to go to my various doctor appointments. Theo is staying
here and will be visited by friends while I am away. When I return to Tahiti on
July 24<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup>, I will bring our son, Jonathan, and my cousins from Italy
with me. I am really looking forward to that.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5NQ8B9wcAW9Crm8wkMAFLQnOlQl-x-2YNGif5xGPppFfjmb7nCLPcDcBoGlNxLmTh0GKmrsB9DpmvrBUiI0ux5LyF8gF2eqdHxcui9rHhA7Q5mekLwXz_gwcdAGRRprLO8KPV2gyeV3Hs/s1600/P1010918+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5NQ8B9wcAW9Crm8wkMAFLQnOlQl-x-2YNGif5xGPppFfjmb7nCLPcDcBoGlNxLmTh0GKmrsB9DpmvrBUiI0ux5LyF8gF2eqdHxcui9rHhA7Q5mekLwXz_gwcdAGRRprLO8KPV2gyeV3Hs/s1600/P1010918+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tahiti</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTfV1fwvf2L5y6xEVAvSeSW-v-MeK814u-bIjHXG-3DACC1LAvbQ49Li3NJP2fTNo5IycCK977_uZ3SVMhzf3wYb7NBqvo8Jt3SUaR46OLAdvjK1gbxUqokg9Rteb9ZJcN-Z4Yz2GSPcAx/s1600/P1010922+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTfV1fwvf2L5y6xEVAvSeSW-v-MeK814u-bIjHXG-3DACC1LAvbQ49Li3NJP2fTNo5IycCK977_uZ3SVMhzf3wYb7NBqvo8Jt3SUaR46OLAdvjK1gbxUqokg9Rteb9ZJcN-Z4Yz2GSPcAx/s1600/P1010922+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finally, veggies!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaqBBawOOGelJ4VjsXrggP2tsb8uyeHj1T1f7a9MMkIyWnK64gjg6Wb7puh3ILmEeOADQ2Fz8lrQfBkLbX2ZcX8vrJukQ4dB2Xq5WbqaFcHnWrhtn1ZrGIB2iQWpgDWQMEoQOecDGVKjCk/s1600/P1010953+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaqBBawOOGelJ4VjsXrggP2tsb8uyeHj1T1f7a9MMkIyWnK64gjg6Wb7puh3ILmEeOADQ2Fz8lrQfBkLbX2ZcX8vrJukQ4dB2Xq5WbqaFcHnWrhtn1ZrGIB2iQWpgDWQMEoQOecDGVKjCk/s1600/P1010953+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dancing on Saturday.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIpSsVhKT7LSSY3ePX1s9O8qKwv4VK0zQ4ALhztujVx0ZVuYNoL4ip4XH_C1njJEKYkeuTtRW6T2mJplw424JWrp5UxmU0LcdgUx8qBeHdB7XpGEJq7RHzLCHhyphenhyphenVaZYH27nJoFubL3GNoQ/s1600/P1010961+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIpSsVhKT7LSSY3ePX1s9O8qKwv4VK0zQ4ALhztujVx0ZVuYNoL4ip4XH_C1njJEKYkeuTtRW6T2mJplw424JWrp5UxmU0LcdgUx8qBeHdB7XpGEJq7RHzLCHhyphenhyphenVaZYH27nJoFubL3GNoQ/s1600/P1010961+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No liquor sold on Sundays...What???</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_6KeTzDu-9arebDGPXllT46fPHZaVmU2-I9-JBrwA-1GwxBH6xJt0kyGQ-rL5PHDDy_RJwgZRASaq3ChQjvLysUzjvUyLXPCYxEqTtV0pEkFv15eID7Vf3W9DVOpmcihCkVb6ZdB7V2Ih/s1600/P1010969+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_6KeTzDu-9arebDGPXllT46fPHZaVmU2-I9-JBrwA-1GwxBH6xJt0kyGQ-rL5PHDDy_RJwgZRASaq3ChQjvLysUzjvUyLXPCYxEqTtV0pEkFv15eID7Vf3W9DVOpmcihCkVb6ZdB7V2Ih/s1600/P1010969+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo schlepping groceries to the dinghy dock.. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7QtTdLL02v018NNT7e1RgQGJNJp9vLiWoM8vhijpK4UCT7JdCjRRQpVZHXYMfyVYx2sJyyDJGy4LPowU2LtMDcc1HG2ZenzmDto6h3LM7-7U6vAzlMXbeJPCd_5sdrqBGlsedlU995A19/s1600/P1010930+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7QtTdLL02v018NNT7e1RgQGJNJp9vLiWoM8vhijpK4UCT7JdCjRRQpVZHXYMfyVYx2sJyyDJGy4LPowU2LtMDcc1HG2ZenzmDto6h3LM7-7U6vAzlMXbeJPCd_5sdrqBGlsedlU995A19/s1600/P1010930+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Canoe races in Papeete.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGRzS-7fWA-TYNwupvkapzRbZ7wNIjQ2qeBS7cCZcuQsh6FeJkQJenf8I-BTnlG2JRQ5oG2p11HC1ui5H0wYJbQQ43yQrR4BSuNFc8ozL7Ylv0jhHRgDbKCC6LMdaZo-JaZ49BaG4RfqcY/s1600/P1010944+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGRzS-7fWA-TYNwupvkapzRbZ7wNIjQ2qeBS7cCZcuQsh6FeJkQJenf8I-BTnlG2JRQ5oG2p11HC1ui5H0wYJbQQ43yQrR4BSuNFc8ozL7Ylv0jhHRgDbKCC6LMdaZo-JaZ49BaG4RfqcY/s1600/P1010944+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Every canoe in Tahiti was here...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Rih_jUiDrAxHaFik5wRK1_aw40cmleLAe99zSfIeU09kslW_2rri7Fxb27U_XYrnu8TKFa2R9I63hyphenhyphenq0Q9JoBe_36nvTyNIY9TGISOb7gEp9uCXmu9R59jx3m74pVltOcVD0J2-VoFzN/s1600/P1010970+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Rih_jUiDrAxHaFik5wRK1_aw40cmleLAe99zSfIeU09kslW_2rri7Fxb27U_XYrnu8TKFa2R9I63hyphenhyphenq0Q9JoBe_36nvTyNIY9TGISOb7gEp9uCXmu9R59jx3m74pVltOcVD0J2-VoFzN/s1600/P1010970+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marina Taina</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Lesson: Call a taxi<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Quotes: “Man was made for joy and woe and when this we
rightly know, through the world we safely go. Joy and woe are woven fine, a
clothing for the soul divine.” William Blake<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It is
some relief to weep; grief is satisfied and carried off by tears.” Ovid<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">French: En larmes – In tears<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03471059532461159422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3358276371486559811.post-50625388697313356632014-06-14T15:26:00.002-07:002014-06-30T17:36:09.392-07:00Nuku Hiva and Tuamotu<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>May 28 – June 1, 2014<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Leaving Taiohea Bay for<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Taioa Bay,
Hakatea (aka: Daniel’s Bay), Nuku
Hiva</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We have sailed a short distance to Taioa Bay. This bay has
two coves and we have anchored in the more protected one which is Hakatea or
Daniel’s Bay. Once inside, you don’t see the open ocean anymore. It gives a
feeling of being on a lake. There are quite a few boats here, but we managed to
find a very nice location. The water is clear and the series of cliffs
surrounding us are spectacular. We were told this would be a quiet bay to get
some rest before our three day sail to the Tuamotu. It is obvious everyone here
is doing just that. This bay is very peaceful and we hear no noise whatsoever. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYohHSPdNBW_eZYZkwEFns767fiTvMaAg7H2Qo3uApp9MiQMjzwjCbYl6e7BEXVxk774r57PAOpn-BWe0ZKqUaITG7gijwq0zI5k4KFOIvzPwMfCFvYvRAyns99ZPLMt4JrXCHHvJtXeqQ/s1600/P1010012+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYohHSPdNBW_eZYZkwEFns767fiTvMaAg7H2Qo3uApp9MiQMjzwjCbYl6e7BEXVxk774r57PAOpn-BWe0ZKqUaITG7gijwq0zI5k4KFOIvzPwMfCFvYvRAyns99ZPLMt4JrXCHHvJtXeqQ/s1600/P1010012+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tranquil Daniel's Bay</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There is a beautiful white sand beach and paddling our kayak
onshore was easy enough. After tying it to a tree, we went to explore the
island. Theo and I kept saying that we felt like we had gone back in time. I
tried to capture the beauty and colors of this place with the camera, but it is
not just the way it looks… it is the calmness we feel here as well. We walked
for a while and came to a flow of water about thigh deep (for me it is thigh
deep, for most people it is knee deep). We waded across and met a man named
Teiki and his wife. They were telling us that there was a very beautiful
waterfall that we should hike to the next day. He said it was not too far and
an easy trail (he used two fingers and made a slow walking motion while he
whistled casually) and then he told us to come back to his house after for
fresh, cold coconut water and fruit salad… we were in!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The next morning we kayaked back to shore and began our
hike. The trail was pristine and the nature surrounding it was beautifully
maintained. We were gazing at fruit trees bursting with mangoes, starfruit and
noni. There were giant red and white hibiscus flowers and fragrant tiare
flowers everywhere… Horses, cows, pigs… you name it, we saw it. We must have said “wow” about fifty times.
This was the loveliest and most memorable hike I have ever taken.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjHjQrPlUO3VWrR57pr8KOR2EwNdwoV-NrGPK0xl0IlGwqAAeY9sxXN2R80UVziVTmYER44SXqIMkX1AZLu1iJSmViafATbqpZnijts1sa3mHNQK5MC8c_BY3NN4FHkYW-7PcVtV9MUHdX/s1600/P1010078+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjHjQrPlUO3VWrR57pr8KOR2EwNdwoV-NrGPK0xl0IlGwqAAeY9sxXN2R80UVziVTmYER44SXqIMkX1AZLu1iJSmViafATbqpZnijts1sa3mHNQK5MC8c_BY3NN4FHkYW-7PcVtV9MUHdX/s1600/P1010078+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The beginning of our hike</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhISQZalnS58UPCo_GHz5atUSZk6vE3Cd5FgnT8QpUzca2oNTM_n-LUfAzaO51yNLIaBuvqBmLQmfyUvyxk6IhZuUcK7f05gfLsyapf0DSc3NV2ubbgJ8c2jklxshhevzWUR6SZIRnkrrcF/s1600/P1010097+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhISQZalnS58UPCo_GHz5atUSZk6vE3Cd5FgnT8QpUzca2oNTM_n-LUfAzaO51yNLIaBuvqBmLQmfyUvyxk6IhZuUcK7f05gfLsyapf0DSc3NV2ubbgJ8c2jklxshhevzWUR6SZIRnkrrcF/s1600/P1010097+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguKFIhjzGql2b1DHIYlUJZLq6I19j3mz8CRfZarrGi3qQsmEaoDaWp-Lit-TbpAywdNYQSsM3yYsDlIky4wWPB1n_zXCObiB23Ugdjf1U_dlmk1Hs5pvroa9rnRkB7KVaeBwurMNA4ek49/s1600/P1010056+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguKFIhjzGql2b1DHIYlUJZLq6I19j3mz8CRfZarrGi3qQsmEaoDaWp-Lit-TbpAywdNYQSsM3yYsDlIky4wWPB1n_zXCObiB23Ugdjf1U_dlmk1Hs5pvroa9rnRkB7KVaeBwurMNA4ek49/s1600/P1010056+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic5o2YFhvKSRlSFlMRqPW_cusGpHySYRx2bSc8vWCWLh9AsWnRyp1oNVn5EYqRuque4WVXBJslBfnvnG_W9Av5BmP8Y6ncLJ6LsF1gwxFfIFzmvqch9C6kyh7-PsIdqsPogJ6ITLNylRrK/s1600/P1010019+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic5o2YFhvKSRlSFlMRqPW_cusGpHySYRx2bSc8vWCWLh9AsWnRyp1oNVn5EYqRuque4WVXBJslBfnvnG_W9Av5BmP8Y6ncLJ6LsF1gwxFfIFzmvqch9C6kyh7-PsIdqsPogJ6ITLNylRrK/s1600/P1010019+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A tree bursting with gorgeous starfruit</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZJS4lzbnrShvwrfqJEamr5aF8lURePAAquBG7mHuSiM4YbBwQWlNM6unsLopprmo7PaxgmaWqc7JJCXezvP1HDR9UvpVxP7f5eCql5rIfTLwTcphUy5DnNbFoPo646vxeGWFoKIytQqKA/s1600/P1010090+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZJS4lzbnrShvwrfqJEamr5aF8lURePAAquBG7mHuSiM4YbBwQWlNM6unsLopprmo7PaxgmaWqc7JJCXezvP1HDR9UvpVxP7f5eCql5rIfTLwTcphUy5DnNbFoPo646vxeGWFoKIytQqKA/s1600/P1010090+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An unexpected outdoor chapel</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We continued to walk for two hours. As we continued the
trail became more challenging and there was also lots of mud because it had
rained the night before. We could hear the waterfall get louder and louder as
we got closer. At one point, I looked to my left and saw it. This was not just
any waterfall… It was a giant! So high up and we just kept staring in awe. The
other thing we noticed was that it was at least another hour away. That would
make at least 6 hours round trip. We
continued on as far as we dared and then decided to head back. In the end it
was a good decision. A year ago I couldn’t walk slowly through the grocery
store, let alone hike for four hours on a slippery trail. I was so grateful and
proud of myself. I felt strong and did the hike with ease, my joints were not
hurting at all, I had enough energy to walk longer if I had wanted to, and I
only slipped and fell on my butt four times in four hours… Now that is
progress!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyVuJ8GJaF9fy7kaqhUsALaWye3ZPudheuKVkbZjYHcoS6dqXT18dNI7fx3rP3j8L9zKYyBmcThpKMCZlBaoLPfXRZJ33aqJB28JY1mSDldPNsVlciF9nXfV9K3JscKZU3V_tuh4vP-xhl/s1600/P1010111+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyVuJ8GJaF9fy7kaqhUsALaWye3ZPudheuKVkbZjYHcoS6dqXT18dNI7fx3rP3j8L9zKYyBmcThpKMCZlBaoLPfXRZJ33aqJB28JY1mSDldPNsVlciF9nXfV9K3JscKZU3V_tuh4vP-xhl/s1600/P1010111+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We stared at the waterfall for a long time...beautiful.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We walked back towards Teiki’s home for cold coconut water,
but before we got there we were approached by a woman with a very sweet smile.
She asked us if we would like to “mange” which means eat. Before we could even
answer, she was scooting us into her home. We met her husband who was even more
enthusiastic than she was. He told us to remove our shoes and come inside. The
first thing we noticed was that there were cats everywhere… at least ten. Then
we saw a long dining table already set for seven people with cold lemonade and
fried bananas. I pointed to the other
places at the table and shrugged my shoulders as if to ask a question… the
woman pointed outside and laughed. I guessed there were more people coming. A
few minutes later we heard her telling others to take off their shoes and come
in. They were five people from Denmark who had also hiked to the waterfall and
they all had the same bewildered faces as Theo and I had when we first entered
the house. Apparently, this couple counts the number of people that hike past
their home in the morning, then they prepare lunch accordingly!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCEpz3AKVxbA3waPIS1SK59jCeZ6iLjZKtbm_4g6RdMWe6Pahz-xobCHo0NKtEOmkD_c8XlrJHec_ErsBg_F_8YSgzdR0wZaP59ioMny43DEnmva-3x-bnxEcjVwiJlJbhtOSOmt-3OPEU/s1600/P1010121+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCEpz3AKVxbA3waPIS1SK59jCeZ6iLjZKtbm_4g6RdMWe6Pahz-xobCHo0NKtEOmkD_c8XlrJHec_ErsBg_F_8YSgzdR0wZaP59ioMny43DEnmva-3x-bnxEcjVwiJlJbhtOSOmt-3OPEU/s1600/P1010121+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our gracious hosts for lunch...(they made me sit in the chair!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We were ordered to sit down and they brought us plate after
plate of food… it was so good! We all ate until we were about to burst, then
talked about future sailing plans and the current mosquito problem (they were
attacking us as we were having lunch, so we were slapping with one hand and
eating with the other). We all left together and we explained to them that we
were going to stop at Teiki’s home because we had promised we would. We were
all a bit nervous about this because we had eaten so much and didn’t know if
Teiki and his wife had prepared a large meal for us as well! Thankfully, it was just fresh coconut water
and fruit salad. Teiki was kind enough to teach Theo how to husk his own
coconut without hurting himself. He also told us that the waterfall we just
hiked to was the third tallest in the world! Maybe we should have walked the
extra hour? No, we would have missed lunch…</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p><br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSrafPi7-kNnPoeHnd-LqjXNUSCeDaKdcKwoehuNE_gNUTIztkfxx1ShWVYS2g6pmTY8AlQ7f77iv2ZAyNkgxo8mDEUJhNUfrFMjRa_eqoDGDPqrKNV0oRWzRgHFKv6_S_OZgWqwtxdR9V/s1600/P1010049+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSrafPi7-kNnPoeHnd-LqjXNUSCeDaKdcKwoehuNE_gNUTIztkfxx1ShWVYS2g6pmTY8AlQ7f77iv2ZAyNkgxo8mDEUJhNUfrFMjRa_eqoDGDPqrKNV0oRWzRgHFKv6_S_OZgWqwtxdR9V/s1600/P1010049+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Teiki and Theo... Manly men!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiCU5E03KLHMsN2_xq11pcZkvBKQ3nbUV61vav9RVy_rNOLSFYzNdRNbNmPMiNDsTvgSFXy7gVydjjJZWlLN1Z-_lU1t1YnFsmIFe6GNUMYQNAi3YBMTlUCbuNGCWmNQAB3lFE77Ei8JEC/s1600/P1010139+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiCU5E03KLHMsN2_xq11pcZkvBKQ3nbUV61vav9RVy_rNOLSFYzNdRNbNmPMiNDsTvgSFXy7gVydjjJZWlLN1Z-_lU1t1YnFsmIFe6GNUMYQNAi3YBMTlUCbuNGCWmNQAB3lFE77Ei8JEC/s1600/P1010139+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo the student</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTupBtWRyQm9HCMlDYTg8F6L00TQvnzGfBhKWsNB_2tfXH0RRmItaY7ydtkK_3aPeyk5FJLg-UXOVZaAX7AzuXbNJbD-jy6mcIFUyCuzJ29Tn8KKicFbCNKgorNKwnDUbsD2jtiLI6BMd5/s1600/P1010132+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTupBtWRyQm9HCMlDYTg8F6L00TQvnzGfBhKWsNB_2tfXH0RRmItaY7ydtkK_3aPeyk5FJLg-UXOVZaAX7AzuXbNJbD-jy6mcIFUyCuzJ29Tn8KKicFbCNKgorNKwnDUbsD2jtiLI6BMd5/s1600/P1010132+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo the teacher</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg93OG75aXzTzaorwHYKi6dI5UgtUKb0LVpHT1xm6-iDLh3vtZTt2a4q42-LivLg0qYVnW1sL0olPXMGk-u2Skkh1eYoq86pgVFNRq5DuKAEvw45eBDeeuCcPSsjUnYzHMBrLRDlJarHI9E/s1600/P1010126+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg93OG75aXzTzaorwHYKi6dI5UgtUKb0LVpHT1xm6-iDLh3vtZTt2a4q42-LivLg0qYVnW1sL0olPXMGk-u2Skkh1eYoq86pgVFNRq5DuKAEvw45eBDeeuCcPSsjUnYzHMBrLRDlJarHI9E/s1600/P1010126+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Refreshing coconut water</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
We waddled back to the kayak and
paddled back to Et Voila. After I showered, I realized I had mosquito bites all
over my face, neck, hands, legs and feet. Before we left California, Theo and I
bought mosquito repellent that is used by our military… it even has Deet in it.
I was slathered in this stuff AND had bug repellent full length pants on… how did
they bite me through my pants!! I will not give up the fight, but I am baffled
and frustrated by the bugs here… @%!#heads. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The weather report looks favorable the next 3-4 days, so we
will leave the Marquesas tomorrow for the Tuamotu. It will be Sunday June 1<sup>st</sup>,
Theo’s birthday.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Lesson: Teiki was burning coconut husks. He told us that the
smoke keeps the mosquitos away and laughed at the fact that we use bug
repellent. However, when I mentioned Nono’s, he got very serious. He nodded
sadly and knowingly, but didn’t say anything. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Quote: “Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed
by the things you did not do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the
bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails.
Explore, Dream, Discover.” Mark Twain<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
French: Mes beaux chats
Translation: My pretty cats<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
La Limonade
Translation: Lemonade<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On a fini?
Translation : Are we finished?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Sunday June 1 (Theo’s birthday)<sup> </sup>– 4, 2014<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Passage from Daniel’s Bay, Nuku Hiva for<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Tuamotu, Tahanea</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After checking the weather report, we decided to leave on
Sunday around noon so we could arrive in Tahanea by slack tide. After
Wednesday, the weather was supposed to get unpredictable and rough. As we
pulled our anchor up, a sea turtle swam by our boat. Sea turtles are said to
bring safety to sailors during long passages, so we were happy to see him. He
was wishing us well.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TWO WORDS: <b>NOT FUN<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As soon as we exited the bay, we were slammed by 25 knot
winds…the weather report said 15 knots!
The first hour was challenging for us, but then things settled down. We
figured we just had a rough start and the worst was over. Theo put a fishing pole
in the water and we caught a nice size Bonito for his birthday dinner.
Everything was great and we were happy. Later on I noticed Theo was very quiet.
He told me his stomach was upset and he did not feel well at all. He was sick
that night during his watch (Mambo threw up right after Theo). We postponed his
birthday dinner until we reach Tahanea.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The next morning Theo continued to feel sick (and Mambo was
extra loopy). We think it was the allergy medication that the doctor prescribed
him for the rash on this thigh, so he had to stop taking them. We were having a
calm enough sail… 20 knot winds and cruising at 7-8 knots on average. I have
been reading and cooking to pass the time.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On our last night, Theo came to relieve me of my watch and
said “Tonight is going to be a very calm one”. WRONG! One hour later I hear
Theo yelling for me from the flying bridge. I ran up there naked and barefoot
because I didn’t know how urgent the matter was. “Put clothes on… Big Squall!”
he screamed. Okay, I put on my clothes and shoes and went back up. We reduced
the sails some more. We had 37 knot winds and the rain was pelting us from all
directions. Waves were crashing up onto our flying bridge and drenching us. The
wind was howling so loud that we could not hear each other trying to shout over
it. I tried to find just one star or the moon, anything to give us some
visibility, but the storm clouds made the night pitch black. We could not see
anything at all. It was the worst
experience so far. Our sail bag ripped again, a main sail car broke, a lounge
cushion and a huge container of dog food are now floating toward China. Breath
in, breath out… repeat.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Neither one of us slept much. Once the weather calmed a bit
we continued our watch schedule. We were exhausted and the dogs were stressed.
I tried to sleep until 2:30am and then did watch until 5:30am. I made strong
coffee and ate a dark chocolate bar. It was better than a Red Bull! We were hit
by more storms and rough conditions until we reached the atoll. Slack tide was
4pm and it was 3:30pm…perfect. Just as we were about to enter the passage, we
had another squall pass over us (really??), so we just waited for it to go by.
We were frustrated… so close to getting in and having shelter.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Once we were finally inside, we saw four other boats
anchored. There was one monohull and three catamarans. We recognized two of
them. They were Mark and Sarah from "Field Trip" and Bruce and Toni from "Remi De".
Some cruisers call them the “Kid boats” or “Kiddy Cats” because they have
children onboard. We were very happy to
see them. As soon as we anchored they came over to welcome us. We must have
been quite a sight. They were in their bathing suits from snorkeling and Theo
and I were in full foul weather gear soaking wet. Apparently, their trip from
Nuku Hiva was bad too. Mark and Sarah have been sailing for the past two and a
half years and they said that this passage was the worst they have ever been
through… wow. They ripped one of their sails and another friend of theirs lost
their main sail. We were grateful to still be somewhat okay and hobbling along.
Et Voila is a bit beaten and battered,
but able to continue… she is a tough cookie like us. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Lesson: The weather report ALWAYS says 15 knot winds.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Quotes: “A ship in the harbor is safe, but that is not what
ships are built for.” Anonymous <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Do
what you have to do and then move on.” Anonymous<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
French: Toujours
Translation: Always<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Fatique Translation:
Tired<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Du Café
Translation: Some coffee<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Du chocolat
Translation: Some chocolate<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Es-tu Inquiete?
Translation: Are you anxious?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
La bie’re, s’il vous plait
Translation: Beer, please<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ocean Sightings: Sea turtle wishing us well, One Bonito on
our pole<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Book: You Can Be Happy No Matter What by Richard Carlson<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>June 4-7,2014<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Tahanea, Tuamotu</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Tuamotu are the largest group of coral atolls in the
world… there are 78 in the group. Of the 78 atolls, 47 have no pass to get
inside. The rest have one or two passes that can be entered carefully at slack
tide. We picked Tahanea because the pass
is wide and the snorkeling is supposed to be great. This particular atoll is
uninhabited and we understand why. As
Theo and I were exploring he asked me if I thought I would survive being
stranded on the atoll. Physically, I think so. There are crabs, snails, clams,
fish and coconuts. If there was some way to collect the rainwater, I would be
okay. Psychologically, I would be totally nuts. That being said, the water is
every shade of turquoise you can imagine… crystal clear like pool water. We are
in a lagoon in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. We don’t even need to snorkel
because we are in 10 feet of water and can see the bottom perfectly.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzcxCL6Skf8ODzJ1EKd6k6ZQ12Jci_GhVkrQ2Ezf_ULR0kzzLdlHw1-PpOXopuCkYjxpDSuz3nc7BipJRs2Q7INVuyQDg27cw8T8-Sxtl3o54IkpX4ryqZXwtze-cmUvvOH_O6HPI4Bhoy/s1600/P1010248+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzcxCL6Skf8ODzJ1EKd6k6ZQ12Jci_GhVkrQ2Ezf_ULR0kzzLdlHw1-PpOXopuCkYjxpDSuz3nc7BipJRs2Q7INVuyQDg27cw8T8-Sxtl3o54IkpX4ryqZXwtze-cmUvvOH_O6HPI4Bhoy/s1600/P1010248+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A lagoon in the middle of the Pacific Ocean</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFuTm4W-NvzlyaYCly_b7UDMMo3irXUUzdDGU3MVJ5BMtSth-Hvy6J5LYRp31-Rhsf8XtnaStZZiYYXJoGLJOpu8hb785v6pBwxacW06Bxgk77y76GPo9g3lIEphJK2Fk3pVwSjWvLXqrQ/s1600/P1010284+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFuTm4W-NvzlyaYCly_b7UDMMo3irXUUzdDGU3MVJ5BMtSth-Hvy6J5LYRp31-Rhsf8XtnaStZZiYYXJoGLJOpu8hb785v6pBwxacW06Bxgk77y76GPo9g3lIEphJK2Fk3pVwSjWvLXqrQ/s1600/P1010284+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo says Coconut Crabs are tasty, but I won't eat them. They look too much like Sebastian from The Little Mermaid movie.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrlw98UAUehqZwJ1o1fYY0rBQK1ZFvhixszpONiKK9ic688XhobBRLm0kxUocncRm0c6MfWwT-NTx6Sv_s5hMrj_GDwe_ieX-fv0n6Kwh99fh9shqn8YPhyphenhyphenPNMF1s_lDFfih94j5b-0a6e/s1600/P1010311+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrlw98UAUehqZwJ1o1fYY0rBQK1ZFvhixszpONiKK9ic688XhobBRLm0kxUocncRm0c6MfWwT-NTx6Sv_s5hMrj_GDwe_ieX-fv0n6Kwh99fh9shqn8YPhyphenhyphenPNMF1s_lDFfih94j5b-0a6e/s1600/P1010311+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and my "shadow"... Isabel</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD1OfMRmS0klYnX8bZf8iaUNEteZ04Jm8BBlpfUgEH9au5UbjXIsDau-6AHg-MB7CG9AYmCh1tR_rr_9Od8LcaFbG9Vt7NWZxkaL9ttfZ9RjSLYvOFuD1n3NTU8A_ECTP7O4C7cynE3mLW/s1600/P1010324+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD1OfMRmS0klYnX8bZf8iaUNEteZ04Jm8BBlpfUgEH9au5UbjXIsDau-6AHg-MB7CG9AYmCh1tR_rr_9Od8LcaFbG9Vt7NWZxkaL9ttfZ9RjSLYvOFuD1n3NTU8A_ECTP7O4C7cynE3mLW/s1600/P1010324+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Get us out of the boat!!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mark and Sarah had told us about a beautiful location on the
other side of the atoll, so we pulled anchor and went over there. We arrived
and saw that there were no other boats around us. We were alone… weird. While
we were anchoring, the dinghy line got caught in one of our propellers (I know…
duh). Theo went to the stern steps to jump in and untangle it. Meanwhile, I was
on the flying bridge watching a 6ft shark swim directly toward where he was. I
yelled as loud as I could, “Stop, Shark!”... he said “Where? Ooooh.” Just then
it went right by him. If he would have jumped in, he would have probably landed
right on top of it! That was close. Once untangled and anchored, we both agreed
that the scary passage was worth it. We were in paradise.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMbrHYUKCh3jAgzOToMUgvwHoX3R20J4G2a_rcGOXhiKIjC7WCQbtOYdqK2HBUrkopp3ZkMmpwLQHoahTjDUK0Jd4S7urj6xKW-GfV4l6QuU2YLd_kGwEan_szzVdJYhpq55lt1lLZu_2W/s1600/P1010360+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMbrHYUKCh3jAgzOToMUgvwHoX3R20J4G2a_rcGOXhiKIjC7WCQbtOYdqK2HBUrkopp3ZkMmpwLQHoahTjDUK0Jd4S7urj6xKW-GfV4l6QuU2YLd_kGwEan_szzVdJYhpq55lt1lLZu_2W/s1600/P1010360+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A refreshing swim</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJruzPngwIuM-9ZEmfagpiQ-_2oJrafFpq_LIpqZiUUi7P1THrh-sIct4PgNK3VUS93wmqMQAR9EYAqZ_qwGyzUnLsbeSLvPPsncNdyeCfJNdszl25P_88CsDMDajOC88qSfmlHkXysydR/s1600/P1010416+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJruzPngwIuM-9ZEmfagpiQ-_2oJrafFpq_LIpqZiUUi7P1THrh-sIct4PgNK3VUS93wmqMQAR9EYAqZ_qwGyzUnLsbeSLvPPsncNdyeCfJNdszl25P_88CsDMDajOC88qSfmlHkXysydR/s1600/P1010416+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our backyard for a while</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVCTCPJOoqA71k9bHAAcYogj_TK5RTOngLprh5iAFJrFkfDK6Vt0P9p1OE-4h-DTbS4kNERe2jL_xzBEmP1U86s6ugWRduI_3cbQvhnEGmdmCLCFdVH4XRRYiWZXxFdJRRRFBu9Lt3CFf1/s1600/P1010346+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVCTCPJOoqA71k9bHAAcYogj_TK5RTOngLprh5iAFJrFkfDK6Vt0P9p1OE-4h-DTbS4kNERe2jL_xzBEmP1U86s6ugWRduI_3cbQvhnEGmdmCLCFdVH4XRRYiWZXxFdJRRRFBu9Lt3CFf1/s1600/P1010346+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coral platforms close to the surface of the water... AKA: Bommies</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsb83Mm-ygW7mDtL3Mp-0j-7C-Kfhrlg38GqHj2unh7KuhyuMgU_93fmi1Ue1sunOgSTVp9TRBOj1Us1oX4UzxnJ8d9bZdiBci7Iv2hlvBdY7EkZMtCWs_QS3OmJLiJQ1XoX1L493KdWkP/s1600/P1010442+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsb83Mm-ygW7mDtL3Mp-0j-7C-Kfhrlg38GqHj2unh7KuhyuMgU_93fmi1Ue1sunOgSTVp9TRBOj1Us1oX4UzxnJ8d9bZdiBci7Iv2hlvBdY7EkZMtCWs_QS3OmJLiJQ1XoX1L493KdWkP/s1600/P1010442+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our last sunset in Tahanea... look how calm the water is!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When we woke up the next morning, we were floating on an
underwater fantasyland. Strangely, there was no wind whatsoever. Believe me
when I say the water was completely flat, not even a ripple. We were mesmerized.
The afternoon was spent making water and repairing the damage to our lazy bag
and sail. Tomorrow morning we will leave for Fakarava.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Lesson: 1) Watch out for “bommies” when sailing inside an
atoll. These are like platforms of coral that are very close to the surface of
the water. Not all of them are on the charts, so you need an extra pair of eyes
on the bow.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2) Blacktip Reef Sharks: I read up on these sharks because I wanted to
get the real story… We are swimming with them after all. The book said they
grow to 6 feet in length, generally do not bother divers, but may bite waders
on the calf… Hmmmm. We are okay with that.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Quotes: “Selfishness is not living as one wishes to live, it
is asking others to live as one wishes to live.” Oscar Wilde<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I show
up, I try to listen, I try to laugh.” Ann Quindlen<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Look at the view.” Anonymous<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
French: A’ la piscine
Translation: To the swimming pool<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ocean sightings: Sea turtle, spotted eagle ray, parrot fish
(teal, royal blue, purple and fuschia pink!), needle and angel fish, white and
purple clams attached to the coral and Black tip sharks.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Book: The Signature of All Things by Elizabeth Gilbert<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>June 7 - 10, 2014<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Leave Tahanea for Fakarava, Tuamotu<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Tumakohua pass, southern entrance</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We sailed towards the southern coast of Fakarava and entered
through the Tumakohua Pass. The trip was wet and uneventful… wet is okay and we
really like uneventful. As we entered the pass there was a crazy current. Our
boat could handle it no problem, but it was impressive to watch. As we entered
more into the atoll we were hyperventilating a bit. There were coral platforms
(bommies) all around us and I was on the bow trying to help Theo navigate
through them, but they were everywhere! In the end he had to completely trust
his chart, which is nerve wracking to say the least. When we finally anchored,
he had to take some alone time. That is how stressful the situation was. Phew!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQh-ij9DpPdzw56bPD8r7Hor4KjfKoBoIj_xZtoRszHGSa8Lh1rXXgI3odgWC76j1ITrDue7UGWhrhTqR0qXwr0x2xwbBQHOjogzHkC7VyBQjD4QBKdFFJ4eOXAMKf1okW4cOhWAIk9Gq2/s1600/P1010459+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQh-ij9DpPdzw56bPD8r7Hor4KjfKoBoIj_xZtoRszHGSa8Lh1rXXgI3odgWC76j1ITrDue7UGWhrhTqR0qXwr0x2xwbBQHOjogzHkC7VyBQjD4QBKdFFJ4eOXAMKf1okW4cOhWAIk9Gq2/s1600/P1010459+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fakarava South Pass</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We recognized many of the boats here. Everyone arrives at
different times, but most of us seem to meet up again eventually and we like
that. The southern pass in Fakarava is famous for drift diving and snorkeling.
Theo went for three dives with Mark and Sarah from Field Trip, and I snorkeled.
Swimming with sharks was NEVER on my bucket list. One of the dive shops here has the logo “Any dive
without a shark is free”. Simply put, if
you want to snorkel or dive the pass in Fakarava, you must swim with them…so I
did. I was once told that if I ever felt extremely uncomfortable in a situation
to send love outward. As the sharks came closer I kept saying over and over in
my head “Love, love, love… I LOVE YOU, I LOVE YOU, I LOVE YOU and please love
me back!” Most of us are so conditioned to
be fearful of sharks… myself included. Thinking back on it (because nothing bad
happened), they were awesome to watch and I feel privileged that I was able to
share the ocean with them. It was just a matter of mutual respect (and love).
You stay out of my space and I will stay out of yours… easy. This place is a diving
and snorkeling fantasyland! Trumpet, angel, butterfly, coral and parrot fish,
puffers, giant Napoleon Wrasse… every reef fish you can imagine. If you can, do
this dive. I know we will not forget it.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizQNPciYTdTZsx0aCxbsdM0FwXOCXTFut0KxbcZIPifJQMJV5lTjd_JcmfOz9CQTxSN1D-_g9u5ptaXRyI0ZQfrJr3JUH2MwOblOBm-piFcmI6QM1GPRKpDZ8cCwZuyaYx7qi0Uq_ctwq2/s1600/G0020218+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizQNPciYTdTZsx0aCxbsdM0FwXOCXTFut0KxbcZIPifJQMJV5lTjd_JcmfOz9CQTxSN1D-_g9u5ptaXRyI0ZQfrJr3JUH2MwOblOBm-piFcmI6QM1GPRKpDZ8cCwZuyaYx7qi0Uq_ctwq2/s1600/G0020218+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fantasyland!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikSWR5kClLII6IbKiyc_tfp2H4aHNT1mgIcI0-4eykI2poBy1jIz-Rwl7l6iN980VqnNoyMR3KgpcUE-aOYn2hk6jBPaT6gWnSyRZJXs29vpFwiEl98A6OI72kEBYjSxAo_vSQlQpgV5pd/s1600/P1000091+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikSWR5kClLII6IbKiyc_tfp2H4aHNT1mgIcI0-4eykI2poBy1jIz-Rwl7l6iN980VqnNoyMR3KgpcUE-aOYn2hk6jBPaT6gWnSyRZJXs29vpFwiEl98A6OI72kEBYjSxAo_vSQlQpgV5pd/s1600/P1000091+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"All you need is love..." - The Beatles</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdLuNBflECa3KOBhvFkRLBgblLYpK3w2GjDAIvcVEhn6f6kNGK4TxHnzAEK3p-wCFceqKW9wQ1VTtKEkznN99_CXGJh8NPhUcVjnKGQHpU8JjA9oV9x_5UvKRIa6Yq2qnvF7BjibtfgO0E/s1600/P1000096+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdLuNBflECa3KOBhvFkRLBgblLYpK3w2GjDAIvcVEhn6f6kNGK4TxHnzAEK3p-wCFceqKW9wQ1VTtKEkznN99_CXGJh8NPhUcVjnKGQHpU8JjA9oV9x_5UvKRIa6Yq2qnvF7BjibtfgO0E/s1600/P1000096+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Napoleon Wrasse</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiis834iqgBsgZm5hk708vEwIwPdtD8EqieWiFuzGP3BJl4KFMOowxk8nMeCCIQUDaw9ipAcsTwCaXrDmROvKHX4YcHxTcj_KDALCTQ3mk7DLCKUIaKPjc6_WFztFpEbbzQ7ZeZ7uG4hLr-/s1600/vlcsnap-2014-06-13-19h33m39s249+%25282%2529+%2528Copy%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiis834iqgBsgZm5hk708vEwIwPdtD8EqieWiFuzGP3BJl4KFMOowxk8nMeCCIQUDaw9ipAcsTwCaXrDmROvKHX4YcHxTcj_KDALCTQ3mk7DLCKUIaKPjc6_WFztFpEbbzQ7ZeZ7uG4hLr-/s1600/vlcsnap-2014-06-13-19h33m39s249+%25282%2529+%2528Copy%2529.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo's drift dive in the pass</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1BGWhMKTALo3ASEhbInaBQ-GHGa4aGMU7fQTA8_S4cqJKnpfHDn-dZHdesqPgYM0Jx8I9EYu8c7HuD9LOAerXaYNTuub8bHzMO8y7GgF3_4vjVlQZ3dDGCsW8MjWLTCuJ_RBvdCKRw-1P/s1600/P1000157+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1BGWhMKTALo3ASEhbInaBQ-GHGa4aGMU7fQTA8_S4cqJKnpfHDn-dZHdesqPgYM0Jx8I9EYu8c7HuD9LOAerXaYNTuub8bHzMO8y7GgF3_4vjVlQZ3dDGCsW8MjWLTCuJ_RBvdCKRw-1P/s1600/P1000157+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A cute new friend we met walking in the village</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We pulled our anchor up and sailed to the south east corner
of Fakarava. It is a beautiful location with one hut on the beach. This hut is
owned by a woman named Liza and she will cook for you. We introduced ourselves
by her pigpen and she swiftly told us that we had the choice between chicken with
french fries or beef with french fries. We chose chicken. We had a great time
with her. She pulled up a chair and talked to us about family, the tradition of
tattoos, she showed us her handmade tool for cleaning a coconut, explained what
can be done with copra… and on and on. She told us that she catches octopus
just outside her house. Our eyes lit up when she said this, so she went in her
kitchen and came back with a large octopus for us to take with us! She would not let us pay for it, so we brought
back fishing line, hooks, hats and all of the candy we had left on the boat. In
the morning when we left, she was outside waving and blowing us kisses. I will
miss Liza.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtgCvxWyjDGS6dV8Qxh6HhoqABOKOytWO_kBP51qBrKu9MTMQDjxNIP-kSbhe2osXN3vnVqSs9q3h-NAc09LtpaUZDvvtZ9XVk4-cdtJDcLpQw6w_cwdUFFhLrZ6mrMLtMlvT_rS7LD_ZB/s1600/P1010501+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtgCvxWyjDGS6dV8Qxh6HhoqABOKOytWO_kBP51qBrKu9MTMQDjxNIP-kSbhe2osXN3vnVqSs9q3h-NAc09LtpaUZDvvtZ9XVk4-cdtJDcLpQw6w_cwdUFFhLrZ6mrMLtMlvT_rS7LD_ZB/s1600/P1010501+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A stroll before dinner at Liza's</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHqzOI-G4BT95OdmqCFKYVS-IwSUDyITwoV3zuKeMgrOvdRG_5Vgwe7vZoKXjPUDki7xoI5n9TIOm03-76hZ9ZmrAWP1b_jDg5HTP4nurcS6zMx_KGhzB3tHhGISUgfVcvK4uK7EJqV0E5/s1600/P1010510+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHqzOI-G4BT95OdmqCFKYVS-IwSUDyITwoV3zuKeMgrOvdRG_5Vgwe7vZoKXjPUDki7xoI5n9TIOm03-76hZ9ZmrAWP1b_jDg5HTP4nurcS6zMx_KGhzB3tHhGISUgfVcvK4uK7EJqV0E5/s1600/P1010510+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The gracious and delightful Liza</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Lessons: 1) If it starts pouring down rain while you are on
the boat, use it to your advantage and collect water. We put a tent up and
gathered about 15 gallons for our tanks!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2) Do
not leave the boat hatches wide open because Mambo will eventually fall
through. Thank goodness he fell through the main cabin hatch and landed on our
bed… patience.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Quotes: “Love isn’t a state of perfect caring. It is an
active noun, like struggle. To love someone is a strive to accept that person
exactly the way he or she is, right here and now.”- Fred Rogers, Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
French:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Douze
requin = Twelve sharks Inquiet = Apprehensive Amour = Love<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
C’e’tait
de’licieux = That was delicious. Et
avec ceci? = Will there be anything else ?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ce sera
tout, merci = That’s all, thanks.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ocean Sightings: It would be faster to write what we did NOT
see this time. Whales, dolphins and
Mantas<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03471059532461159422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3358276371486559811.post-87001226731342494192014-05-29T13:59:00.001-07:002014-05-29T14:00:22.703-07:00Taiohea Bay, Nuku Hiva, Marquesas<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>May 23-28<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<strong>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Nuku Hiva<o:p></o:p></span></strong><br />
<strong>
</strong><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Taiohea Bay, Marquesas<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We have spent most of our time on Nuku Hiva relaxing and
doing errands. This is the capital of the Marquesas and it has all a cruiser
needs to provision a boat before leaving for more remote places. The lazy bag
for our main sail needed to be sewn together because we managed to rip it on
the way here. We have been getting fuel and water, faxing papers that needed to
be sent, and getting things we need at the pharmacy…etc… We got to experience
almost everything here. Theo has a nasty rash on his thigh. Nothing we have on
the boat is making it better, so we got to visit the hospital. They were very
helpful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hopefully his problem will get
resolved in the next few days.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEojZ0V5F6xBYJdjdj12WLRH1kBSLC-EDX6uZT1FQTpHJvi5ny1TC5Cdd5hAvhAYzotsR3ukpSENO76ynmj0XE3YYSzw3Hbd07F_lwN9-EBEGfyRgDA6-MQmBbg_6rshj09ShOyyNzOAYE/s1600/P1000932+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEojZ0V5F6xBYJdjdj12WLRH1kBSLC-EDX6uZT1FQTpHJvi5ny1TC5Cdd5hAvhAYzotsR3ukpSENO76ynmj0XE3YYSzw3Hbd07F_lwN9-EBEGfyRgDA6-MQmBbg_6rshj09ShOyyNzOAYE/s1600/P1000932+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Taiohea Bay</span></strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I will take you through a typical day for us… Coffee, jump
in the dinghy and tie up to a very crowded dock that has a slippery ladder that
we climb and then hoist ourselves up to a concrete slab… (For anyone who is
planning to visit this bay, be aware that this same ladder will destroy your
inflatable boat during low tide. We see deflated dinghies all the time outside
Yacht Services). Once stable we look to the left and, if we are lucky, the
fisherman will be there with their fresh catch of the day. This is usually
Wahoo, Tuna or Lobster. Once we buy our fish, we watch as they throw the fish
scraps and heads into the water which causes a frenzy of 6 foot sharks very
close to where our dinghy is tied. The locals call them Marquesan cows. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We will have to climb down the slippery ladder
later with all of our “extra stuff” and lower ourselves onto a very rocky
inflatable boat. Knowing what is lurking nearby, we are always very, very<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>careful… especially when we have fresh raw
fish in our bag.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span> </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiDaG1h5utO_pgpagA-r_ZJWs7bhBvOlPItWlTT9GD9pz0Tqua78EEjTE0dAkjCrgCZy3c8uB54V3Tcr_X41xiRHl_rtl63XRr3ZW1rBHH8Yo_-M8rFR4vzAF51X5mgAgWBRdVEfofxN_n/s1600/P1000990+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiDaG1h5utO_pgpagA-r_ZJWs7bhBvOlPItWlTT9GD9pz0Tqua78EEjTE0dAkjCrgCZy3c8uB54V3Tcr_X41xiRHl_rtl63XRr3ZW1rBHH8Yo_-M8rFR4vzAF51X5mgAgWBRdVEfofxN_n/s1600/P1000990+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fish Market scenes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span> </div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUyCvNgxc2fRm53eA7xTUGPg9Gir7IhpOwkw4vML8PwWOENG_lY2qoY73q1tiTZDtPleku24CQOpCno-kr37Ctzsb5KvlwBPd4WA5278-cbAx-8kKutrsmcTVQkypYbak3Un7J1Xi0b4p5/s1600/P1000992+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUyCvNgxc2fRm53eA7xTUGPg9Gir7IhpOwkw4vML8PwWOENG_lY2qoY73q1tiTZDtPleku24CQOpCno-kr37Ctzsb5KvlwBPd4WA5278-cbAx-8kKutrsmcTVQkypYbak3Un7J1Xi0b4p5/s1600/P1000992+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just caught tuna.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUqNBF3o6oMUB50MOOZRhphQqe3cvvR54MDTuO4QxdmaQs3eJ0mZAQOcvxQYOjgIZ9e1ywv9AaiQLlKPO2XvpfyAI3HNuzCBAeaA0Wd_EVP0cCBFzwV_k4bStj3T2fhnODM7hcYf-LOWcO/s1600/P1000975+(Copy).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUqNBF3o6oMUB50MOOZRhphQqe3cvvR54MDTuO4QxdmaQs3eJ0mZAQOcvxQYOjgIZ9e1ywv9AaiQLlKPO2XvpfyAI3HNuzCBAeaA0Wd_EVP0cCBFzwV_k4bStj3T2fhnODM7hcYf-LOWcO/s1600/P1000975+(Copy).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hungry sharks by the dinghy dock</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Just a few steps away is a busy Café (Snack Vaeaki) that has free Wi-fi. We
go there every morning to check our email and news. Then we usually go to the
market to stock up on whatever vegetables are available that day. I have really
enjoyed the fact that there are vegetables here. The other day we went to a
restaurant and I had a green salad (not cabbage) AND green beans… a very good
day for me!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">After lunch onshore, it is usually back to Et Voila to
repair what has broken and clean up. There is always something to do. Then we
have an early dinner and read a while. We have been going to bed when it gets
dark and waking up when the sun rises. Very nice for us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We love the way everyone helps each other here. For example,
we had met a young man in Hiva Oa. He had asked us if we could buy him a carved
rosewood box in Fatu Hiva. He didn’t buy it when he was there and he regretted
it…he wanted it as a gift for his mother. We agreed we would buy it and if we
ever ran into him again, we would sell it to him. Here in Nuka Hiva, we saw the
boat he was crewing on. The young man was gone, but we gave the box to the
captain of the boat and he will send it to him. In exchange he gave us 5 very
clean fuel cans that we needed very much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Easy…simple. It is always this way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you have too many groceries,
someone from the market will drive you back to the dock. If we are seen
struggling with heavy fuel cans, a person will come over and help us load them.
If you want to know where fresh drinking water is, someone will show you where
to find it on the island. The cruisers say “Pay it forward”… in other words,
just help the next person. That is what we do and it feels good.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We are ready to move on. Needless to say, we have not been
swimming here, so we will go to Hakatea Bay (aka: Daniel’s Bay) for a few days.
After that, we are off to the remote Tuamotu. We may not have internet until we
reach Tahiti towards the end of June. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Lesson: Do not tie up your dinghy in front of the
fisherman’s tables. They will hose of the fish parts and blood into your boat.
you will smell bad and be more interesting to the sharks as well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Quote: “I never had a policy; I have just tried to do my
very best each and every day”. Abraham Lincoln<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">French: Un café tres chaud<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Translation: Hot coffee<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Jusqu’ou allez-vous?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Translation: How far are you going?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Vous etes tres gentil<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Translation: You are very kind<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Aller<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Translation: To
go<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Books: The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The invention of wings by Sue Monk Kidd<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Ocean sightings: Manta rays, hungry sharks<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Nono’s: Zero<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03471059532461159422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3358276371486559811.post-23257459109147238202014-05-22T19:44:00.001-07:002014-05-22T19:44:52.001-07:00Ua Pou<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>May 14-15, 2014<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Hakahetau Bay<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Ua Pou</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We sailed from Hanaiapa Bay at 5 am. It was a wet ride with
clouds dumping on us and the wind was all over the place. It was late afternoon
before we reached the island of Ua Pou (Poe) and we still had a way to go to
reach the anchorage we wanted. We tried to stop at Hakamaii Bay, which was a
bit closer, but our instinct told us to move on… too unprotected and we would
not have slept that night. We finally reached Hakahetau Bay and spent the night
there.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When we woke up we saw an impressive skyline. Huge spires
rising out of the island and they are truly striking. We had our morning coffee
and decided to kayak to shore and explore. We tried twice to do this, but we
did not make it (a humbling explanation in lessons section). Our instincts
finally screamed at us to move on. We did not see the village of Hakahetau…<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Lesson for today (with humility and embarrassment):<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Do NOT assume anything… communicate with your partner
ALWAYS.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Explaination: Our Kayak Drama (or as Marie would say “A
little movie”).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We had read that it was tricky to get onshore in Hakahetau
Bay. Motorized inflatables were not recommended, so we decided to take our
double kayak and drag it on shore once we arrived. Our kayak routine is that I
sit in front and hold on to our “stuff” and Theo sits in the back, gets the
paddle and we go. There was a crazy current and swells. I got into the kayak
and when I felt Theo sit down behind me… I let go of Et Voila. A huge mistake that will
not be repeated… EVER. I heard Theo say “I don’t have the paddle”. We look back
at the boat and, sure enough, there it was. The current was so strong that we
had already drifted an alarming distance away in just seconds. I began using my
arms as paddles and Theo jumped in and tried to swim and pull me to safety. He
reached the boat, but the rope had slipped from his hand.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was still adrift and all this time I was still using my
arms like crazy trying to move, but it was not happening. I will never forget
the force of the current that day and how I used all of my strength with no
results whatsoever. Thankfully, Theo managed to get me the paddle and I got back
on the catamaran. We were exhausted. Okay, this was totally avoidable and in
normal conditions would not have been a big deal… In this bay, it was a very
big deal. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We are not ones to give up, so we tried again (with two
paddles this time). The current and swells were too treacherous. We pulled
anchor and left for Hakahau…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Quote for today: “If it is a mistake, at least you learn something,
in which case it is no longer a mistake.” Eckhart Tolle<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
French Words: Oups Translation: Oops<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Desole’ Translation: Sorry<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Les faute Translation: Mistakes<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
C’est une ide’e bête Translation: Foolish Idea<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ocean sightings: zero (thank goodness)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Books: The Shoemaker’s Wife by Adriana Trigiani<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Love With
a Chance of Drowning by Torre DeRoche<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
NoNos: Zero <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tears: Zero<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>May 15-23, 2014<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Hakahau Bay<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Ua Pou</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We anchored and saw another impressive skyline. It is cooler
here with a light breeze and we have a protected spot next to shore. Hakahau
Bay has one of the nicest dinghy docks in the Marquesas and the water is clear
and inviting. We will stay a while. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilXwXYTVjTImk1fqcFCFE0CLGCHQNBWMavTvkNvVW7qQ4th5p3xHNQAeTiFse0EwCGpCTD0stDDul81WcNtCG2-49jbmCknMqCGzCz_-uoGCTbGsDwnWbb-lgPNAFFC5LW327gc6CbqPiV/s1600/P1000764+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilXwXYTVjTImk1fqcFCFE0CLGCHQNBWMavTvkNvVW7qQ4th5p3xHNQAeTiFse0EwCGpCTD0stDDul81WcNtCG2-49jbmCknMqCGzCz_-uoGCTbGsDwnWbb-lgPNAFFC5LW327gc6CbqPiV/s1600/P1000764+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hakahau Bay skyline</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD3_9x_yhL2xJg1wsswWJ5IakB_skuHHXYS_F0qr44CImjO2BpSshxlHrI0ev147rG88Y-ooGb32u3RU5DLaKC3v1bH6iNCLXC9MnXgso2_2c3DpLEuZ1YF9q7P2QX8s11z4Qg_TYbKzI5/s1600/P1000782+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD3_9x_yhL2xJg1wsswWJ5IakB_skuHHXYS_F0qr44CImjO2BpSshxlHrI0ev147rG88Y-ooGb32u3RU5DLaKC3v1bH6iNCLXC9MnXgso2_2c3DpLEuZ1YF9q7P2QX8s11z4Qg_TYbKzI5/s1600/P1000782+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Et Voila</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Our fresh vegetables
have decreased to onions, garlic and two cabbages. I tried to make salad for
lunch and Theo (who is usually quite tolerant) clenched his jaw and hissed “I
do NOT want any more cabbage”. We heard there were a few well stocked grocery
stores here, so we set out to find them right away. We found fresh croissants,
pastries, potatoes, onions, garlic and cabbage. Thank goodness the pastries
cheered Theo up for a little while. If
any of our friends want to play a prank on him while visiting us, just buy some
cabbage before you come onboard!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Typical things we see around the village:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_QJ3zVonpXyfiFgtzqiG2gpAkDEVK_gCi0-8YhNtfQkqcrnzVccSG14wPYOUO7EPRLhATWUzPcU09W7rb0-_IPuiJw_ussV7CtVpzTiTDaoSD5N8_d-qV2JiaqMWiZu1ruvzrNQptgqr0/s1600/P1000892+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_QJ3zVonpXyfiFgtzqiG2gpAkDEVK_gCi0-8YhNtfQkqcrnzVccSG14wPYOUO7EPRLhATWUzPcU09W7rb0-_IPuiJw_ussV7CtVpzTiTDaoSD5N8_d-qV2JiaqMWiZu1ruvzrNQptgqr0/s1600/P1000892+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIknOsEhF67Qz9-sDIumWWK48SqhCZeuX5Ny7OSR-7BMekRvIhmbxx8z2b9dqpMo61Z8a587afXwkrBH7hLtc3TbZEodfVJiB9lkqcF_JbRANWhfjScveFppTx9Nstr1wp_qA8hE4HLJOj/s1600/P1000770+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIknOsEhF67Qz9-sDIumWWK48SqhCZeuX5Ny7OSR-7BMekRvIhmbxx8z2b9dqpMo61Z8a587afXwkrBH7hLtc3TbZEodfVJiB9lkqcF_JbRANWhfjScveFppTx9Nstr1wp_qA8hE4HLJOj/s1600/P1000770+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtB9fPWuZWaMmGpyYZZ7oGKioLsiZIOZjIzAgXxEk37cYYN5ghj_EZfPdMtCByjogU2DSzukYaRBONegW5C0kpVKMPfbRfD6on-fh_IEVMpQKgAIq1EBtLpzRadMPXSCw7RYUyXVaXyPtL/s1600/P1000735+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtB9fPWuZWaMmGpyYZZ7oGKioLsiZIOZjIzAgXxEk37cYYN5ghj_EZfPdMtCByjogU2DSzukYaRBONegW5C0kpVKMPfbRfD6on-fh_IEVMpQKgAIq1EBtLpzRadMPXSCw7RYUyXVaXyPtL/s1600/P1000735+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrki2B8Sn_YeK0O91_PPjnqS1n5Exnn-aJBMX-Jv0vFDkpYiGHHRQaa9iBgylFS4p4cRsmwD-7J7MRiQAOuZz_oXWA6U3hK8MtQUBA1KCvyDyuvbF8E5FnAnWStCxLynOaaB61zjMrLjGi/s1600/P1000864+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrki2B8Sn_YeK0O91_PPjnqS1n5Exnn-aJBMX-Jv0vFDkpYiGHHRQaa9iBgylFS4p4cRsmwD-7J7MRiQAOuZz_oXWA6U3hK8MtQUBA1KCvyDyuvbF8E5FnAnWStCxLynOaaB61zjMrLjGi/s1600/P1000864+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shopping for starfruit.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
On the way back to the boat we saw a sign that said “Pizza”.
This sounded like a dream, especially with an ice cold Hinano Beer. We sat down
and the owner, who was delightful and spoke English, showed us the written menu
of the day. There was no pizza in sight. I ordered the Poisson Cru and Theo
said he wanted to try what the locals eat. For those of you that do not know my
husband, he loves to try different types of food, and over the past 26 years I have
seen him eat some daring things. That being said… one plate arrived with
different kinds of raw mussels and crabs ( we have seen these clinging to the
rocks at every dinghy dock), different varieties of fish which were both cooked and smoked, fried
bananas and cucumber salad…. amazing. Not what we expected. The owner even let
us use his Wi-fi… we were extremely
happy and will definitely go back.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbV22xdpJlQcq3ekSv4dfOjkR1rQfpJV3IAqXqXlQJYGBBgqjh9B2IlH1NmJS9qACn0ygA-_SWDynsZzPWR11ppTYJAdOBOiXfFudDFJeEh3OMiKVuBoC37DvAIIXiq_HpxabueHlH0c3m/s1600/P1000828+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbV22xdpJlQcq3ekSv4dfOjkR1rQfpJV3IAqXqXlQJYGBBgqjh9B2IlH1NmJS9qACn0ygA-_SWDynsZzPWR11ppTYJAdOBOiXfFudDFJeEh3OMiKVuBoC37DvAIIXiq_HpxabueHlH0c3m/s1600/P1000828+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crab on rock</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNgxAd2AwgLmTByw63VSQ-HIDJRu7Cmf1NiqIeUcb2osxL65fEH5VXZCeasIIc2QD0MbuIihnoLID3y0W-7UOjKGEjg_2wywjjYuKXXEO6IPjTNO2Qi0-3ckrPRli0AHdbKvPL3L552WuH/s1600/P1000793+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNgxAd2AwgLmTByw63VSQ-HIDJRu7Cmf1NiqIeUcb2osxL65fEH5VXZCeasIIc2QD0MbuIihnoLID3y0W-7UOjKGEjg_2wywjjYuKXXEO6IPjTNO2Qi0-3ckrPRli0AHdbKvPL3L552WuH/s1600/P1000793+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crab for lunch</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivMC2dV1D3gusQSb-iD4MR624oUj0zuyf0ABm90Xm8AGpTBID8Jwv1-W2j3mTdBAaiVEXB9reaA1UZOghkQdCf932CZdYKaeKsrcjjjHAcx3O5Mp0TieqJwTisK_GrU9hD5jBeIWkw03qw/s1600/P1000796+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivMC2dV1D3gusQSb-iD4MR624oUj0zuyf0ABm90Xm8AGpTBID8Jwv1-W2j3mTdBAaiVEXB9reaA1UZOghkQdCf932CZdYKaeKsrcjjjHAcx3O5Mp0TieqJwTisK_GrU9hD5jBeIWkw03qw/s1600/P1000796+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No comment...</td></tr>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
There is also a pension that will serve you dinner if you
reserve ahead of time. It is called Pension Pukue’e and the owners, Eliza and
Jerome, are lovely. This is actually their home, but you can stay in the extra
rooms and eat meals with them. The large covered patio is very pretty and has a
nice view of the harbor. We ate our dinner at a communal table with the owners
and some guests that were visiting from France. The company was fun and Eliza
made us an unforgettable meal of lobster, sashimi, slow cooked goat with
mangos, a breadfruit casserole ( I could have eaten the whole thing), and for
dessert a homemade tart made of passion fruit, mango and kumquat marmalade with
ice cream… Yum.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<div class="MsoNormal">
It is interesting to experience the “vibe” here during the
week versus the weekend. This is a very traditional way of life. We can hear
the school bells ring as children attend classed during the week. On Friday
night we hear music as locals gather on the beach. We can smell the BBQ they
prepare and serve on the picnic tables. On Saturday most of the kids are out
laughing, swimming and playing together on the beach and in the evening there
is more music. They seem really, really happy. When we walk through the town,
children will lean out the window of their cars to give us a high five and then
laugh hysterically when they touch us. We
sit at the stern of our boat and watch people ride their horses on the beach
and swim. In the evenings everyone around us is sitting outside watching the
sunset. On Sunday there are the church bells and after mass it is a
family day. All businesses are closed and there is peace and quiet in the
village. That is it… Simple.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCz-8NLAhohd2cN9s_FRRJJs_9bRVTKfrDLpg3IJNNLJ3h7vIZB3MsFzNEjWmDnV_9sQTjeP50cJnjCArfcQrHD9FsXI_xmUiSM7ckPFM748DglDJCDyxI81M2Vx3zQ2uuC3WPNhmxdKQD/s1600/P1000749+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCz-8NLAhohd2cN9s_FRRJJs_9bRVTKfrDLpg3IJNNLJ3h7vIZB3MsFzNEjWmDnV_9sQTjeP50cJnjCArfcQrHD9FsXI_xmUiSM7ckPFM748DglDJCDyxI81M2Vx3zQ2uuC3WPNhmxdKQD/s1600/P1000749+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhOBmEc2SPQvMV1bZcykD1ahPsCKP_2QHGalyflCbXjKFh4oHqA7yPOzbP71oZEoaahY92kUP7UNo37INslSZn7t4WnkPDvueUAJaIQrEpQ3dC7KhWOY1bx-xieXxUC94q_nUJufi2I8Kx/s1600/P1000851+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhOBmEc2SPQvMV1bZcykD1ahPsCKP_2QHGalyflCbXjKFh4oHqA7yPOzbP71oZEoaahY92kUP7UNo37INslSZn7t4WnkPDvueUAJaIQrEpQ3dC7KhWOY1bx-xieXxUC94q_nUJufi2I8Kx/s1600/P1000851+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stunning beach and spires.</td></tr>
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One afternoon, customs officers dropped by our boat to check
our paperwork. I will try to explain this the best I can, but it was so strange.
Three officers approached Et Voila with their inflatable (no shoes). I locked
up the dogs and Theo grabbed their boat line. After that, it was all in slow
motion. One man jumped on board no problem, but then the second man grabbed our
stern ladder. Our ladder is NOT fixed in place. It is meant to swing down into
the water so swimmers can get back onboard. So you can imagine when he grabbed
the ladder, he fell backwards as the ladder moved towards him taking the man
behind him down as well. The two of them were in the water with guns, phones,
sunglasses and everything else… Oops. I offered them towels, but they wanted to
go change and said they would come back later. Theo and I giggled the whole
time we waited for them to return. We had our serious, responsible faces on
during the inspection and it went fine... Awkward though.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo, Mambo and our famous ladder.</td></tr>
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There is one gentleman on the island that is extremely
social with the sailing crowd. He was born in France, but now lives on Ua Pou
among the Marquesians. He knows English so we were able to communicate just
fine. Theo and I have nicknamed him “The Floater” because he floats around the
anchorage on an old body board wearing his crocs. Every day he comes by for a
chat, and when he is ready to move on, he floats to the next boat and repeats
the same with them. One day he joined us on Et Voila for a lunch of French fries
and Rum drinks and we all exchanged stories. The cruisers are like his family.
Thank you for your time… We will remember you always!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo, Mambo and "The Floater".</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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On the morning of May 21<sup>st</sup> a huge ship, the
Aranui , docked in Ua Pou. All of the
cruisers were out on their boat bows at 6am with coffee to watch it maneuver
into place. Fascinating! If I wouldn’t have seen it with my own eyes, I would
never have believed a ship that size would be able to dock here. Today is a big
celebration on the island because the Aranui’s arrival means more tourists to
entertain and feed, and also new provisions for the island from Tahiti. In the
afternoon, we walked through a local artists exhibit and after we saw a
traditional dance performance. In the evening there was a concert and barbeque
put together for all the cruisers. The people here are generous and gracious
hosts. We are thankful that we experienced this special day.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arrival of Aranui</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_O1JsszcfZSWv3Wfm0ddISYUoFKrrNqGaKteOzvGYf4oMKUnSRwdzPR_b8rzkfB4gqn38sPqsUM3gabpBzcvuMzCyNsxUJmUC807ew69l6yQzJKnTYSDdlZ67FKit38m1JZWJug3ucqUQ/s1600/P1000903+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_O1JsszcfZSWv3Wfm0ddISYUoFKrrNqGaKteOzvGYf4oMKUnSRwdzPR_b8rzkfB4gqn38sPqsUM3gabpBzcvuMzCyNsxUJmUC807ew69l6yQzJKnTYSDdlZ67FKit38m1JZWJug3ucqUQ/s1600/P1000903+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kids playing with the Aranui dock lines</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnoCU7zkIxePC5aABlCCivmE9uffik46WDsFKBWHFJN1OxUSjCfgZwauLVG51mw6qfnoSd-p6bpKNSypVgapO_apWsXi6NodnOEvLQL41_ifwMDEe_SXJ5mzNfQPp4i2ChAoK1ucS-EhTL/s1600/P1000882+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnoCU7zkIxePC5aABlCCivmE9uffik46WDsFKBWHFJN1OxUSjCfgZwauLVG51mw6qfnoSd-p6bpKNSypVgapO_apWsXi6NodnOEvLQL41_ifwMDEe_SXJ5mzNfQPp4i2ChAoK1ucS-EhTL/s1600/P1000882+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Traditional dance by Meheani</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUetq7wPNoduWywz6YMxOfg2h3ndILr-09HJSeZvKcDOKUKRGpaysy8m9OvlCmvJMmtG5i3HIS-87FoNY30_auy7CakhWadeGn80HEbgqWEzkzzRW6YIyVhjbvUw9pIedSpnAZuN-KyRuk/s1600/P1000891+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUetq7wPNoduWywz6YMxOfg2h3ndILr-09HJSeZvKcDOKUKRGpaysy8m9OvlCmvJMmtG5i3HIS-87FoNY30_auy7CakhWadeGn80HEbgqWEzkzzRW6YIyVhjbvUw9pIedSpnAZuN-KyRuk/s1600/P1000891+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dancers and us.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRrHcVVEvn9lTDOi0I_L6ygMl_VtSyfsV0TlhrLUJxdUwrJO-PZ7qLR86Iy1lXTK1rW9Ilti6VqJ7lEFUzfHAhUFlNKyoG8tPdbpf9HMibBhMKVyayCaziIxAkRawSqZkMmf_2c6gBOE5O/s1600/P1000895+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRrHcVVEvn9lTDOi0I_L6ygMl_VtSyfsV0TlhrLUJxdUwrJO-PZ7qLR86Iy1lXTK1rW9Ilti6VqJ7lEFUzfHAhUFlNKyoG8tPdbpf9HMibBhMKVyayCaziIxAkRawSqZkMmf_2c6gBOE5O/s1600/P1000895+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Meheani and me.</td></tr>
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We will be leaving Ua Pou soon. We have lingered longer than
expected. That’s fine because we are
meeting people on the boats around us and exchanging ideas about where to go
next. We will definitely sail to Nuku Hiva tomorrow to buy some fresh
vegetables and fish at the early morning market on Saturday. Then we are off to
the Tuamotu Archipelago.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Lesson: Sharks are only a problem in the anchorages where the
fishermen clean their fish on the docks. In Ua Pou, the fishermen only clean
their fish outside the bay. They are very strict about this. It is so the
children can swim without danger. Very nice.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Quote: “People will forget what you said; people will forget
what you did; but people will never forget how you made them feel”. Maya
Angelou<o:p></o:p></div>
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French: Au marche’
Translation: To the market<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span lang="FR">Voulez-vous une chou? Translation: Would you like a cabbage?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="FR">Oui, oui !
Duex choux s’il vous plait Translation: Yes, yes! </span>Two cabbages please.<o:p></o:p></div>
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C’est bête comme choux Translation: That’s foolish as cabbage<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="FR">La Douane Translation: Customs<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="FR">Flotteur Translation : Float<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03471059532461159422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3358276371486559811.post-11999983078388530052014-05-17T19:45:00.002-07:002014-05-17T19:46:59.002-07:00Fatu Hiva & Hiva Oa<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>May 4 – May 7, 2014<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Fatu Hiva <o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b>Hanavave “Bay of Virgins”</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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We had a very relaxing sail from Hiva Oa to Fatu Hiva. We
left around 7 in the morning and arrived in the Bay of Virgins by early
afternoon. I encourage you to go online and look at these places and read the history.
For example, this bay was named something else (I will let you figure that
out), but when the Catholic priests came they promptly changed the name. This
cove has dramatic volcanic cliffs and trees that show every color of green
imaginable. It is crazy beautiful.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVXz9CVALrHqvcSt3RXImZsIhft3CNmBgH2ecvNEoHn-cIvYArYzte0Ox3k3iVJJMK72TSjShbPESc4TPqX9njBRwqwo3Daczri2i1t_eKNpKjnQxNhTaDHLE351qwEv0yhP2WmEAUY8Gc/s1600/IMG_0874.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVXz9CVALrHqvcSt3RXImZsIhft3CNmBgH2ecvNEoHn-cIvYArYzte0Ox3k3iVJJMK72TSjShbPESc4TPqX9njBRwqwo3Daczri2i1t_eKNpKjnQxNhTaDHLE351qwEv0yhP2WmEAUY8Gc/s1600/IMG_0874.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bay of Virgins</td></tr>
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Once on shore, we realized that there is just one paved road
here. It will lead you to the main village. Along our walk we saw a school, a
church, one very small market, and the medical and post office took up the same
small structure. We repeatedly tried to go to the post office, but it was
always closed. A local told us to knock on the door, but no one was there. No
way to get cash or wi-fi here. <o:p></o:p></div>
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We have met many other cruisers. Everyone is extremely
friendly and willing to share their stories with us. When we first anchored in
Hanavave, we were surprised by the number of Catamarans we saw. There were at
least eight. People are from all over the world…Sweden, Australia, New Zealand,
Canada, Italy and Brazil. Some are
couples like us, some are solo and some, especially the Catamarans, have
children. When I asked about this, they explained that they had been sailing
for years and were home schooling the children onboard… Wow! One boat has six
children onboard, two in diapers! This is something that I never considered
(the home schooling, not the six children). Good for them… The kids seem very
happy.<o:p></o:p></div>
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We hiked with a big group to the waterfall. Once you go past
the paved road the trail is marked by small stones stacked on top of huge lava
boulders. It is a gorgeous 300 foot waterfall which goes into a large pool. It
was a one hour uphill hike, so the cold water felt amazing.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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On the walk back, locals came out of their homes and asked
if we needed various things. We always asked for fresh fruit and were always
given a baguette as well. We would
either buy some of their wood carvings or give them dollars. This is the last
island in French Polynesia where tapa cloth is still made by hand. As we walked
we could hear the sound of women pounding the tapa.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0DXxuR0IoWNy6FxYT-a7W9kgEA8ICoJj3o_VlLx430fbzsqr_jnlshM4Oz7y46JUBOe0DDK1_wLDV_sBAIWTU1HWuGXZniAy2lJRXP0zD1sheVTA_c-EZgJ-KVaGevxwFNs8dSbLa3URA/s1600/P1000628.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0DXxuR0IoWNy6FxYT-a7W9kgEA8ICoJj3o_VlLx430fbzsqr_jnlshM4Oz7y46JUBOe0DDK1_wLDV_sBAIWTU1HWuGXZniAy2lJRXP0zD1sheVTA_c-EZgJ-KVaGevxwFNs8dSbLa3URA/s1600/P1000628.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From generous locals! The bread did not make it to the boat...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
One day, while
getting back on our inflatable boat to leave, the children started asking us
for things. One of the things was candy. My sweet, generous husband casually
said “ Bonbons” and I swear we suddenly had a swarm of kids clinging on to our
boat and they would not let go. We
managed to leave most of them behind, but four refused to get off…One girl
Caroline and three boys. We went to Et Voila and gave them their Bonbons, some
goggles and snorkeling masks. They promised us they would share with the other
children… Hmmmmm… doubtful. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwI8LtRW0T6fCh15LlloHicumKixsmNAc5gxruCBXF6nS6o5nmKlZ7Wn07sQ9if2D9d334Bf3_8RpP2VoUEdrODK8bhFkJjgm8XVV0_durMj2Tg1sq0IiYynvhBlRUH1yZImtyjCleIgrS/s1600/P1000631.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwI8LtRW0T6fCh15LlloHicumKixsmNAc5gxruCBXF6nS6o5nmKlZ7Wn07sQ9if2D9d334Bf3_8RpP2VoUEdrODK8bhFkJjgm8XVV0_durMj2Tg1sq0IiYynvhBlRUH1yZImtyjCleIgrS/s1600/P1000631.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Caroline.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAtNw5rZbUYv6dugKhFv_uIN3JvzFrvNqZa1qvWba8PqOW4sUiX9N3ZFJ6SjFaQ9twk0_RrIvAoJNfEYui5K5TLErg-NvucRkCzOmfj4SiB4UDdJyM0PiWJC2ktNL5WvqnKUFLAxCPBo9N/s1600/P1000633.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAtNw5rZbUYv6dugKhFv_uIN3JvzFrvNqZa1qvWba8PqOW4sUiX9N3ZFJ6SjFaQ9twk0_RrIvAoJNfEYui5K5TLErg-NvucRkCzOmfj4SiB4UDdJyM0PiWJC2ktNL5WvqnKUFLAxCPBo9N/s1600/P1000633.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They wanted to go fast!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There are no restaurants here, so the locals invite you for
dinners in the evening. When we went onshore to go to one of these dinners, a
girl came up to me and gave me a big hug… Caroline. The dinner was at her home.
They served amazing fresh lobster, papaya salad and my favorite Poisson Cru in
coconut milk. After there was music played by our hosts and Caroline was
dressed beautifully in traditional costume dancing for us. Lovely. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh83TJDSLt5K3NCE7iMS9PKL_UJywJewjR_847GwlY3MkZNqs4nvGg4BxzYngRcv9D0LeDjqaEmXYXcrzlwK_yS5bEz9BSA9W9Gi0mEEicGgcgSfRtPuEmS2AeaeL1EC_GklQ4eUrCZIf55/s1600/P1000639.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh83TJDSLt5K3NCE7iMS9PKL_UJywJewjR_847GwlY3MkZNqs4nvGg4BxzYngRcv9D0LeDjqaEmXYXcrzlwK_yS5bEz9BSA9W9Gi0mEEicGgcgSfRtPuEmS2AeaeL1EC_GklQ4eUrCZIf55/s1600/P1000639.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Caroline dancing for us after dinner.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Lessons: Do not feed the children.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Quote: “If your heart is in your dream, no request is too
extreme”. Pinocchio<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
French word: Bonbon Translation: Candy<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Books: Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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WHY I LOVE IT HERE (In no order whatsoever):<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*There is no need to think about fashion. We can wear
absolutely anything and it is acceptable… no shoes are required.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*No makeup here, just sunscreen and bug juice, which rapidly
slides off your face and body anyway.<o:p></o:p></div>
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*When we call for Alec to drive us somewhere we are told that
he has gone fishing…and he really has.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*Just before sunset, we can see the locals with their kids
lined up at the dock with fishing lines to catch dinner.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*My Vitamin D levels must be soaring.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*I love how easily the locals roar with laughter when
we explain that we have two dogs with
us.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*If you slip on gravel and fall on your butt while walking
and gazing up at the fruit trees, people will actually run over to help you and
ask if you are alright.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*Small children run around naked and shoeless.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*I love how some locals tell you the sharks don’t bite in
Taahuku Bay. Then you ask someone else
and they tell you there are no sharks. Then you ask someone else and they say
that they are everywhere and they will most definitely bite you. We just try to
stay out of the water.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*Gorgeous fruit trees everywhere. There are Mangos, Bananas,
Grapefruit, Papayas, Coconut, Star fruit and wild berries. I especially love
the limes. They are good on our fish and to flavor our water.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*Every day I feel like I have done a Hot Yoga class.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*My joints do not bother me at all.<o:p></o:p></div>
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*The air is very, very clean.<o:p></o:p></div>
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*Theo is happy.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*I am happy.<o:p></o:p></div>
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*I ate worms and I don’t care.<o:p></o:p></div>
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*We can take a shower outside with chickens roaming by.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*I am sunburned, scarred, bruised and sweating profusely,
but no one questions this here. If I was at home I would be asked all day long if
I was feeling well or if I was a victim of abuse.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*The customs agent was surprised when we explained to him
that Greece is a part of Europe.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*I have no idea what time it is and have no to do list until
July.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*We can hitch a ride anywhere very easily…no thumb required.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*The people here all seem genuinely happy and are always
laughing…maybe at us, I don’t know. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*The only scales in sight are to weigh fruit, vegetables and
fish.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*So far, the dogs have nothing to bark at…or they are just
too hot to make the effort.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*People here pronounce our last name correctly .<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*We meet people from all over the world and get to hear
their stories.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*No one ever asks what we do for a living …ever! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*No CVS, Walgreens or Gossip Magazines in sight.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
* I have not seen anyone texting and walking at the same
time.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*When it rains here, people go outside.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
* I get to fall asleep to the sound of gentle waves.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>May 8 – 11, 2014<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Tahuata<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Hana Moe Noa Bay<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We are now anchored in an uninhabited, idyllic bay on the
island of Tahuata. This is the first place in the Marquesas where the “white
man” came. Moe Noa means “long sleep”. We will always remember this anchorage
because it is simply paradise. It has a white sand beach with palm trees, turquoise
water that is clear, rainbows, and there is no noise….just peace and quiet. We
have been swimming, snorkeling and kayaking. At night there are campfires on
the beach. This has been a good time for us to clean the boat really well.
Before it was too hot, but now we scrub for a while and then jump in the water
for relief. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_fSU2EgpORIxdIblC-s24tEk8rmFcGzN1IOePI4lcxVnuFhOEQP2FRV9uDmGHAVGLu89NN4oHlY8bGQRkNqEEW4yvqUZfo9HSgMwc4Q2AIzVFDqm0EhRJdaKwQMgt7MY6uDuUWIcLGNL3/s1600/IMG_0998.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_fSU2EgpORIxdIblC-s24tEk8rmFcGzN1IOePI4lcxVnuFhOEQP2FRV9uDmGHAVGLu89NN4oHlY8bGQRkNqEEW4yvqUZfo9HSgMwc4Q2AIzVFDqm0EhRJdaKwQMgt7MY6uDuUWIcLGNL3/s1600/IMG_0998.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Nothing is perfect… I have read there are NoNos on the beach
here. NoNos are blood sucking sand flies that attack during the daytime. I am
not afraid of much, but I dread the NoNos. Their bites are supposed to itch
terribly and last a while. Theo doesn’t believe me, so he went to the beach
today to scout the situation (without bug repellent)… He came back with
coconuts and a bright red crab clinging to a stick. Needless to say, he boiled
the crab and ate it. We will find out later if he met the NoNos.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhga0I39LLxjVE2oWJVSDfYHEuwtgC0n7aD09_Pyi1PpyV0rnIr6E-hVWbZKl2c2212ELASZFCyTfccLIqxOE95bbs6BNA-7ePAtXX4bZQod8UirSY-Wq4R6VzPlcg-5nnAEJuaQ44lu92z/s1600/IMG_0991.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhga0I39LLxjVE2oWJVSDfYHEuwtgC0n7aD09_Pyi1PpyV0rnIr6E-hVWbZKl2c2212ELASZFCyTfccLIqxOE95bbs6BNA-7ePAtXX4bZQod8UirSY-Wq4R6VzPlcg-5nnAEJuaQ44lu92z/s1600/IMG_0991.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our view for a while</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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On our last day here we swam and snorkeled all day. The
Manta Rays were in the bay and we could not get enough of them. At first I
hesitated to get out of the kayak, simply because I have never in my life been
in the ocean with a wild creature bigger than myself (or Theo for that matter).
I finally jumped in with my fins and snorkel. I immediately felt peace. They
were so graceful and calm. The closest I have ever come to this feeling was in
Hawaii with the Sea Turtles, but this was something completely different. The
wing span on them was at least 6 feet and they have huge mouths that open to
eat plankton. There were three of them and the largest one was the most
“playful”. He would swim straight toward me with his big open mouth, and when
he was really close he would quickly dive just below my body. I had to stay
completely still so I wouldn’t kick him with my fins. He kept circling and doing
this over and over…amazing. We are hoping to see them again tomorrow before we
pull our anchor up.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv_2cnvI5onGLAwa2QbIiuRzpaJLWmhrlDLLjmRROKveLl2Rm2lQothNfZewuaehwTdjhOzUjHZLhFUT5R12nVPbAQ2S6nLullHBH6MulUO1_Xb94Bwr16JmJi1bfyxeguNbuR-ptJoRGz/s1600/IMG_0785.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv_2cnvI5onGLAwa2QbIiuRzpaJLWmhrlDLLjmRROKveLl2Rm2lQothNfZewuaehwTdjhOzUjHZLhFUT5R12nVPbAQ2S6nLullHBH6MulUO1_Xb94Bwr16JmJi1bfyxeguNbuR-ptJoRGz/s1600/IMG_0785.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnNQIcl2jFSOqqDaEMN2lDdoam_RZjdZWDOi_wFQJxUFKd7xhyKZkuVUGO1X326WM6hO-xuYwtk7awlGpahaJKpge3aiKAcFIs3Lc4EkNt6UoARXWNbxhg2-wQbWAocJTospe26XhnuWpB/s1600/IMG_0816.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnNQIcl2jFSOqqDaEMN2lDdoam_RZjdZWDOi_wFQJxUFKd7xhyKZkuVUGO1X326WM6hO-xuYwtk7awlGpahaJKpge3aiKAcFIs3Lc4EkNt6UoARXWNbxhg2-wQbWAocJTospe26XhnuWpB/s1600/IMG_0816.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Happy Mother’s Day!!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Lesson: Do not crack open a coconut on the stern steps of
your boat…coconut stains terribly and it lasts a while.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Quote: “When you seek happiness for yourself it will always
elude you; When you seek it for others you will find it yourself”. Dr Wayne
Dyer<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
French word: Dormir Translation: To Sleep<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ocean Sightings: One very large Manta Ray that jumped
completely out of the water twice as we were arriving in Hana Mae Noa Bay…
Later we snorkeled with three of them. All kinds of reef fish, one octopus, Sea Urchins.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
NoNos: Zero<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>April 12, 2014<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Hiva Oa<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Hanamenu Bay<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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We swam one more time with the Manta Rays and then sailed to
Hanamenu Bay on the Island of Hiva Oa. This bay has a completely different feel
than the last one. We are in a lava canyon and there is a small beach with palm
trees… it just doesn’t seem to go together… strange. It looks like a mirage you
might imagine in the desert. We can hear goats on the cliffs around us but
cannot see them. Two other boats are anchored
here with us.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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After lunch we went
onshore to explore and search for a fresh water spring that is supposed to be
very beautiful. We could hear the water and followed the sound to a very well
maintained oasis. All the rocks were placed perfectly around a pool of clear
water which was surrounded by breadfruit and palm trees. There were some young
adults at the pool when we arrived. They were from LA and Santa Barbara. They
seemed very, very nice but my gut flipped a little when I realized that one of
them was holding a large machete (for coconuts). It just went against my better
judgment to hang around, so we jumped in the pool. The water was really cold, but we didn’t care...
It felt great. We explored more and found passion fruit and lime trees. We
filled up our bag and headed back to the boat. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWe1QtGFTy1dPKYeE9LU8sgJY_CFdVcOtE665zhbheEyyzW9cUr8d1i1RUhyyPFJkkfPuxsjK3bkj0n2-72OKeTMRUmyOl2STcz-sXBQOtDzDmuPjDqr3iIJ8fdO0Xdi8pcJyO5lWdhky9/s1600/P1000650.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWe1QtGFTy1dPKYeE9LU8sgJY_CFdVcOtE665zhbheEyyzW9cUr8d1i1RUhyyPFJkkfPuxsjK3bkj0n2-72OKeTMRUmyOl2STcz-sXBQOtDzDmuPjDqr3iIJ8fdO0Xdi8pcJyO5lWdhky9/s1600/P1000650.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh water oasis</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiABbzKe9CrA0k_GHC_sI7feDlppAMlwOnd6x2pdusZv6q2wb3HcLmfyoe5pcOlTbNFrLj_4q7VZvbig1SZnF_LG7QCx68N_J5Og2MULKCRP0uxoryxApZQOd5A7QKURjnhVhoIXXPsiK6r/s1600/P1000681.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiABbzKe9CrA0k_GHC_sI7feDlppAMlwOnd6x2pdusZv6q2wb3HcLmfyoe5pcOlTbNFrLj_4q7VZvbig1SZnF_LG7QCx68N_J5Og2MULKCRP0uxoryxApZQOd5A7QKURjnhVhoIXXPsiK6r/s1600/P1000681.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We walked over a creek that led to the ocean… really pretty.
Once we were on the beach we became very, very sad. NoNos… They attacked from
everywhere and we could feel them biting us. They are aggressive, obnoxious,
hungry little s***heads and they gang up on you… Bullies. There was no getting
away from them and we are covered with nasty bites… banana pancakes tomorrow
morning and then we are out of here!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Lesson: ALWAYS reapply your bug spray after swimming in a
stunning fresh water pool.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Quote: “Be who you are and say what you feel, because those
who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind”. Dr. Seuss<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
French: Mil moustique Translation: A thousand mosquitos<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
NoNos: A thousand<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ocean Sightings: Zero<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>May 13, 2014<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Hiva Oa<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Hanaiapa Bay</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We had a very rolly ride to Hanaiapa, but it is a very
beautiful anchorage. Arriving into the bay we had dolphins enter with us. There
is a waterfall, blowhole, palm trees, little white dots on the cliffs (goats) and
there are no other boats here. We took the kayak onshore to explore and ended
up walking for nearly 3 hours. We had no idea that there was so much to see.
This part of Hiva Oa is very well maintained with paved roads, streetlights and
immaculate plants, trees and flowers. The natural beauty of it made us want to
keep walking to see more. We were already tired and by the time we turned
around to go back to the boat and we had forgotten to bring water with us.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We heard someone calling to us from a house to our right. We
stopped and a man was waving us in to his home. He kept calling it the “Yacht
Club”. We walked up his driveway and, sure enough, there was a bright colored
sign that said William Yacht Club. We told him where we had traveled from and
he pulled up some chairs and served us each an ice cold citrus drink which was
the best tasting thing ever. Then he continued to bring out fruits and shredded
coconut. William has lived in Hanaiapa for a while and he has three books
filled with messages from cruisers that have walked by his home over the years.
From what I saw, the first entry was made in 2003. We were honored to write in
his famous book. We waved goodbye with bags filled with grapefruit, bananas and
papayas. As we continued to walk down
the road we heard another gentleman calling us to his home. He greeted us with kisses, showed us pictures
of his family and offered us more fruit. We tried to explain that we did not
need any more fruit, but he would hear nothing of it. We hauled all the fruit
plus a huge stalk of bananas that he insisted we take with us to our
kayak. Getting in the kayak with all of
this AND the bananas was very tricky given the high tide and waves crashing on
the dock… but we did it. Once we unloaded everything we went back to the
village to give our generous hosts some new shirts and baseball caps we had
brought with us. They loved the hats!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN5lEiLwabID-70SPFcCGy0-18vdD2jsgrwT1uxNQjLnBWzDQJaGE4usvbxPpERau0ao9bpKAkmp1tyC9HyuglWm6RZWkqbUe8nTu71RlYEuqHag52Qj6K5NVOXtywOAxF5axDwpHiMaaN/s1600/P1000703.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN5lEiLwabID-70SPFcCGy0-18vdD2jsgrwT1uxNQjLnBWzDQJaGE4usvbxPpERau0ao9bpKAkmp1tyC9HyuglWm6RZWkqbUe8nTu71RlYEuqHag52Qj6K5NVOXtywOAxF5axDwpHiMaaN/s1600/P1000703.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Et Voila</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTkiae041n6DiQ4Tt8k3yi-rpQZMgtVJ7GwXGNcTW_Q4s6F4cPIg9bMDtpoB4A-YnUOa44PBRh39WqrAk_edd3Lk0w-F4Bao4d6TXZJi9HJqHw_i6FT44VDuQuXKGmlEm8yYsfqCu75bwu/s1600/P1000704.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTkiae041n6DiQ4Tt8k3yi-rpQZMgtVJ7GwXGNcTW_Q4s6F4cPIg9bMDtpoB4A-YnUOa44PBRh39WqrAk_edd3Lk0w-F4Bao4d6TXZJi9HJqHw_i6FT44VDuQuXKGmlEm8yYsfqCu75bwu/s1600/P1000704.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkIyTIt_aksIwIIlqv_EdAhzU4ad6q0V1Xglp6cPGdAU1Xrdjij0MYaEx4whp23zs989N5Q844_75TXqm1AbOxJph_Q6aDEatr-fm4K0KucyP_6CCk0Y9CIFBSE5FWjmw2WR1-YtOI08ke/s1600/P1000726.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkIyTIt_aksIwIIlqv_EdAhzU4ad6q0V1Xglp6cPGdAU1Xrdjij0MYaEx4whp23zs989N5Q844_75TXqm1AbOxJph_Q6aDEatr-fm4K0KucyP_6CCk0Y9CIFBSE5FWjmw2WR1-YtOI08ke/s1600/P1000726.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">William and Wanda</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixAo-Sx0R-CkL9TU4Ek2OeImBTVTXVk5rCeYOxdqV7WVAk6IkzPwXTvweGwKyHPJQqjHXJSHZzfmcSGGZQ6RCGFg54LIXbVeojG5SNzp3kApC4lqTHHkMRtZmaDPNdu4f8bVAdcUT13a0O/s1600/P1000714.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixAo-Sx0R-CkL9TU4Ek2OeImBTVTXVk5rCeYOxdqV7WVAk6IkzPwXTvweGwKyHPJQqjHXJSHZzfmcSGGZQ6RCGFg54LIXbVeojG5SNzp3kApC4lqTHHkMRtZmaDPNdu4f8bVAdcUT13a0O/s1600/P1000714.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A happy goat!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We were exhausted from walking all day and went to sleep as
soon as the sun went down.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvNUwXtGizSXh8LKvXpzp5YjkfH9fjGTfgImj0qr_I262SROFRHI7p084hM9aTwNICkB9PyaV0HSTQbbvAz8RkM9X4uaQ9yipYdHZ_DYKeqgpsSNuDlmpcWGmSWoXG9bymI5bc6GINVqUZ/s1600/IMG_0905.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvNUwXtGizSXh8LKvXpzp5YjkfH9fjGTfgImj0qr_I262SROFRHI7p084hM9aTwNICkB9PyaV0HSTQbbvAz8RkM9X4uaQ9yipYdHZ_DYKeqgpsSNuDlmpcWGmSWoXG9bymI5bc6GINVqUZ/s1600/IMG_0905.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mambo and Isabel are enjoying their vacation.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</o:p></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit6DLy0CCFDPMrYYNFIocaQBiqIL0MiuQMpp65kkW2w4qn6h7PbnCaqizlc-yuv_ZfJnbGBIluytKqsQKsMVkD3QFTI-431a8nedBwYkFZnokPPPQyEMOeNBDJXnZtS0rbx5M9ss7mH_q9/s1600/IMG_0976.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit6DLy0CCFDPMrYYNFIocaQBiqIL0MiuQMpp65kkW2w4qn6h7PbnCaqizlc-yuv_ZfJnbGBIluytKqsQKsMVkD3QFTI-431a8nedBwYkFZnokPPPQyEMOeNBDJXnZtS0rbx5M9ss7mH_q9/s1600/IMG_0976.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mambo was exhausted too!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisMdQoUPZIS9z2VT7lC-T69rELbgWUYti9sMFbm1T2zUU_FNW9_4DBs0BwnPIK8ZqLPJYn2baqxQIhZjbDWeN-P9ydLDqjOS0_R6zk-7d8tFKWmIowheP20L5nH9VUiLnUYGeqzUsz9V5B/s1600/IMG_1020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisMdQoUPZIS9z2VT7lC-T69rELbgWUYti9sMFbm1T2zUU_FNW9_4DBs0BwnPIK8ZqLPJYn2baqxQIhZjbDWeN-P9ydLDqjOS0_R6zk-7d8tFKWmIowheP20L5nH9VUiLnUYGeqzUsz9V5B/s1600/IMG_1020.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A beautiful sky!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03471059532461159422noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3358276371486559811.post-44573679487763450862014-05-03T11:04:00.000-07:002014-05-03T11:20:27.520-07:00Hiva Oa. Marquesas.<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>April 25-May 2,
2014 <o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Hiva Oa<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Once we were safely anchored, Marie, Bruno and I went to
shore. Bruno stayed with our inflatable boat and the sharks, while Marie and I
went to check things out inland and find a cold beer for Theo. If you have been
on a boat for 20 days and suddenly go on land…you feel like you are floating.
It is okay if you keep moving, but if you suddenly stop, it can be unsettling.
This lasts for an average of four days.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Marie and I walked to what looked like a bar area and went
in… It was someone’s home. They had a lovely large lawn with Roosters sprinting
from one side to the other. They enthusiastically waved us in; we introduced
ourselves and told them what our goal was for the evening. The Marquesians are very
friendly and helpful. One of the women
drove us to an ATM to get cash so we could by Theo’s beer (No Euros or Dollars
here) and then told us that her husband would meet us tomorrow morning at the
marina to take us to the Gendarmerie. This is like the Coast Guard and Customs
combined. We returned to the boat with cold beer and a frustrated Bruno who, in
his efforts to secure our inflatable boat, met with a shark. After a bit of
cursing, deep breaths and beer, all was good. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Theo and I set our alarms so we would be on time to go to
customs in the morning with our arranged driver. We brushed our teeth, dressed
and made the morning coffee. Then we were joined by Marie, who told us it was
actually 4 am. We stayed up anyway, drank our coffee and talked until it was
time to go. Bruno was the only smart one who stayed in bed until we woke him.
When we reached shore, our shirtless and shoeless driver was waiting for us
smoking his morning cigarette. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Customs turned out to be fairly simple (other than having to
hold on to the desk or sitting down because I was unable to stand in one spot
and not fall over). The dogs are another story. They will have to stay onboard
until a veterinarian in Tahiti can see them… We were pretty sure it would go
that way. This is actually fine. I can only imagine the scene when Mambo and
Isabel see all of the wild poultry running around everywhere. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After customs, we went to a restaurant and had a traditional
breakfast. Beautiful warm baguettes, butter, fresh Mango and Grapefruit, homemade
fruit spread and strong coffee with real milk… Merci!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Theo and I wanted to go back to the boat to check on the
dogs. As we were walking, one of the locals offered us a ride to the marina so
we hopped in. He explained to us that it was unusually scorching hot for the
island. We believed him. The heat is like nothing I have experienced before. I
am sweating profusely at all times. My clothes and hair are wet. There is no
escaping it. Usually we would just jump in the water, but the sharks make it
not worth it here. Once our local friend dropped us off at the marina, he gave
us three very ripe, gorgeous papayas. He kept telling us that they were Bio
(organic). We thanked him very much and continued on to by freshly caught Wahoo
for dinner. We bought it fresh off the boat and 2 ½ pounds cost us 5 US
Dollars. Wow…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_XFnQq0XVA2zTOy4Di6jWR1PM3vUJ4k-LzjQj665g49eTnRYsWkn_yESO4jdSupXBchoCRgty4OspEhM4LCEmW2-OdlIsb2Q70x60-Ttd5iesTrBKRZZwEkuvHupmNIS0RczumjAhvZcy/s1600/IMG_0721.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_XFnQq0XVA2zTOy4Di6jWR1PM3vUJ4k-LzjQj665g49eTnRYsWkn_yESO4jdSupXBchoCRgty4OspEhM4LCEmW2-OdlIsb2Q70x60-Ttd5iesTrBKRZZwEkuvHupmNIS0RczumjAhvZcy/s1600/IMG_0721.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grilled Fresh Wahoo. Amazing tasting fish!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The next morning we woke up without any alarms. We went
onshore to see Sandra. She is in a small building overlooking the marina and
she answers any questions you may have, does your laundry, will drive you
anywhere…etc. She is a very popular lady here. Merci…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEm0Xl4TxSWtOQiE5usP6E36hv7FO3cF3WOWn8R4-C64VigBqORsdTjc0EEZMyVQf4gfkfTNCB8_qEu2mkBzY31buSNglGgwX5xWVuv2wZCL4EBvYFlh4s4vVAWkYMsaM1HrGVT47QjU8w/s1600/P1000524.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEm0Xl4TxSWtOQiE5usP6E36hv7FO3cF3WOWn8R4-C64VigBqORsdTjc0EEZMyVQf4gfkfTNCB8_qEu2mkBzY31buSNglGgwX5xWVuv2wZCL4EBvYFlh4s4vVAWkYMsaM1HrGVT47QjU8w/s1600/P1000524.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Local Tourism office</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEykBg-tIvMw8Ut_jaz2XaqKNenrWZZsl8PaURdZvvJmoInIJiTyGT0oXecwk7miYpLj3XnjbddgbP95X_Kkfi3I-pVWNtAb-Y-Pf4qLMKbAiVCocVmxXk7gnDzHqF_1X7SJLJR9Wm14sq/s1600/P1000534.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEykBg-tIvMw8Ut_jaz2XaqKNenrWZZsl8PaURdZvvJmoInIJiTyGT0oXecwk7miYpLj3XnjbddgbP95X_Kkfi3I-pVWNtAb-Y-Pf4qLMKbAiVCocVmxXk7gnDzHqF_1X7SJLJR9Wm14sq/s1600/P1000534.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Local Launch Ramp...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLY3A-22oWOw_mzngl7FgVXTsK4xgkshpb0bhhN2wgQlTRmohEoBKYIijRbH_ZOkrLvPnIyn-x1XpEEGQQpY-BpznGiO_6oyi9Mft59Culwwrt9iq1khfCg_9KnPd_Wk1qwvbIruboDpTg/s1600/P1000576.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLY3A-22oWOw_mzngl7FgVXTsK4xgkshpb0bhhN2wgQlTRmohEoBKYIijRbH_ZOkrLvPnIyn-x1XpEEGQQpY-BpznGiO_6oyi9Mft59Culwwrt9iq1khfCg_9KnPd_Wk1qwvbIruboDpTg/s1600/P1000576.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amazing Picture of the coastline with our boat in the harbour.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivhnHaTiRfQ8ajmFPT1op_2sIYkdCCcAIqFRJi40q0WOCQAHetinG1vCiz9qflKC8Hj99juKLCY6uriVo0SKJjHuuu-wkADGU0NRp-wDwwLqXlBAnz6C9tdKziG1j0jpIZMJ933J9Z87-S/s1600/P1000580.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivhnHaTiRfQ8ajmFPT1op_2sIYkdCCcAIqFRJi40q0WOCQAHetinG1vCiz9qflKC8Hj99juKLCY6uriVo0SKJjHuuu-wkADGU0NRp-wDwwLqXlBAnz6C9tdKziG1j0jpIZMJ933J9Z87-S/s1600/P1000580.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chicken everywhere!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When we returned to the boat, Theo and I decided to eat the
organic papayas from the friendly local yesterday. We sliced them in half and
devoured them with some limes. We said
it was the best thing ever and ate more. While I was eating, I saw something
move. Worms… HHHMMMM. The papayas were definitely organic… I just hope we
chewed it up properly… That’s all I have to say about that.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The next day, Theo finally figured out the problem with the
water maker. He is sooooo happy. I always knew he would fix it. The parts would
have taken a long time to get to us here, so it is a huge relief. We can use it
until Papeete and then order parts to arrive in Tahiti. Shower tomorrow!!!! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAMlywngc8XHk7wa7uEjlul0ZS9fhqieFW78spaup9GFf6EvzP5Uen-Os4cahyFHJiU8BGnlHEZtPlzFbOhHitvr0NfzHFrMPq1Et4ZJSthvCpVLrrZK93CvQGklB08QRmKF5LFinkwVio/s1600/IMG_0466.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAMlywngc8XHk7wa7uEjlul0ZS9fhqieFW78spaup9GFf6EvzP5Uen-Os4cahyFHJiU8BGnlHEZtPlzFbOhHitvr0NfzHFrMPq1Et4ZJSthvCpVLrrZK93CvQGklB08QRmKF5LFinkwVio/s1600/IMG_0466.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Isabel helping Theo fix things</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Marie- Jo is another very popular lady here. She drives us
everywhere and is lots of fun. The first time we met her, Theo was still
struggling with anchoring the inflatable boat onshore. When he appeared to get
into the car, he had accidentally fallen into the water and was soaking wet.
Marie-Jo said he could not get into the car like that. Theo took his shirt off
and started squeezing all of the water out of it so he could sit in the car.
All he got was a side wards glance and a disapproving expression. He finally
said..” I am going with you!” So the compromise was to dust off a dirty floor
mat from the car and have him sit on that. By the time this was figured out, he
was dry and I was profusely sweating and completely wet…but no one seemed to
notice. I need to expand on this and explain that this is an island where it is
no big deal to see a grown man peeing behind the tourist office, poultry
sprinting freely everywhere and horses tied to the back of moving pickup
trucks.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE_3jSkXKAYOA50kYVM_qPCBxv1DVfo9_5Fa6KdP5eNKXGPzz_N1XedsBiYL4Hm_uTHOUigniYgY_asyx3vMK96hx_gHVSIJ46hnwzH4o8N1-5wdyUtR9l3weFWfoz0X_TDg3WfRGGsTLf/s1600/P1000562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE_3jSkXKAYOA50kYVM_qPCBxv1DVfo9_5Fa6KdP5eNKXGPzz_N1XedsBiYL4Hm_uTHOUigniYgY_asyx3vMK96hx_gHVSIJ46hnwzH4o8N1-5wdyUtR9l3weFWfoz0X_TDg3WfRGGsTLf/s1600/P1000562.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marie Jo and our boat in the background</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The next day, we called for a ride to go to a very nice
hotel on the island for dinner. It has the most amazing view and food. When our
driver came to pick us up, it was Marie-Jo again. She told me I looked
beautiful and then took one look at Theo and scrunched up her face. His shorts were wet all the way to his crotch
because he had to wade through the water again to get onshore. He tried to
explain that this was a new fashion trend from California, but she just sighed
and put a towel down on the seat for him to sit on… When we arrived at the
Pearl Lodge for dinner, the hostess took one look at us and asked if we would
like to sit on lounge chairs by the pool. Yes… Merci!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The next day, we went onshore to go to town. There was
Marie-Jo again. She is like the Butler in the movie Mr. Deeds. She appears out
of nowhere. When she saw us approaching she applauded wildly. Theo was
completely dry!! She was driving us into town when I mentioned that Theo wanted
to get a tattoo. She stopped the car and pointed off to the side of the main
road. She said “My nephew, Renaldo, does tattoos”. We said we would think about
it. At lunch, the restaurant owner was covered with tattoos, so we asked him
who he recommended on the island. He pointed back to the kitchen and said “My
cook does tattoos”. I looked at Theo and he said that he would like someone
that does tattoo work for a living… not a cook. I understood. He called someone
else that was recommended to him, but he spoke no Engish and hung up on him.
Renaldo it was. Theo has a beautiful tattoo….Merci Renaldo!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8eGJlWsSZDtJAqw4TGvp4OYDVyP6VgmBErii9rN6OMgDwsKavDGBNMgZw4XrzRpn3k5OV54uSwap_FHl_P5MbwuM6nQOqZGrO7WxoflYZbXKVYUz4J1gED7JnQSwTVh-uK01DmzF90LBx/s1600/P1000596.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8eGJlWsSZDtJAqw4TGvp4OYDVyP6VgmBErii9rN6OMgDwsKavDGBNMgZw4XrzRpn3k5OV54uSwap_FHl_P5MbwuM6nQOqZGrO7WxoflYZbXKVYUz4J1gED7JnQSwTVh-uK01DmzF90LBx/s1600/P1000596.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theo getting a Tattoo...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On Thursday we did a tour of the Island. It was wild and
crazy beautiful. In the past, there were wild horses on the island. If you
could capture one you could keep it. Now they are tied to trees like we would
tie our dog in front of a store. They go from place to place tied to the back
of trucks contently trotting behind to the next location. Goats and pigs are
everywhere here… Occasionally, you will see a cow. Poultry is free to anyone
that can catch them. We asked our tour guide how they usually catch the
chickens and he said “Do you have a 22?” We said no, and he made a motion of
firing out the window of the car. Ohhhh… So, if we are on the dock and manage
to catch a chicken it is ours for dinner. No one spoke until lunch because we
were so mesmerized by the scenery and stories. At lunch we all exchanged our
life experiences and future sailing plans. No one asks why you are here, why
you chose to do this voyage or what you do for a living. We all understand each
other. Nice… <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjszzaialHindfLNWgBD6J-C82F9mGIpQXVksSS1d2adEmAMNr1-IYF0eYgaFU0kjAXE8Eb5pNkdUhD6KIZOgQ381-sexLO_u8JQLTyZkbhtcVnKDhPvDFAlRLR8EbIlDIliCtq-keWuKzx/s1600/IMG_0748.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjszzaialHindfLNWgBD6J-C82F9mGIpQXVksSS1d2adEmAMNr1-IYF0eYgaFU0kjAXE8Eb5pNkdUhD6KIZOgQ381-sexLO_u8JQLTyZkbhtcVnKDhPvDFAlRLR8EbIlDIliCtq-keWuKzx/s1600/IMG_0748.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Horse tied behind a car</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3_B0EmLCFXEx-FfK9_jCrEvCN61Q619nIMyvYcuKdHNGVp1l462xWS8l5yiLYBN6APNBfLr8D2y-vIdeRMo3WuEb4yFyXORrzovhv_6fGcn5MCDdS2bOf7wZEDrHNIx3OiPcGUnbbRz19/s1600/IMG_0756.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3_B0EmLCFXEx-FfK9_jCrEvCN61Q619nIMyvYcuKdHNGVp1l462xWS8l5yiLYBN6APNBfLr8D2y-vIdeRMo3WuEb4yFyXORrzovhv_6fGcn5MCDdS2bOf7wZEDrHNIx3OiPcGUnbbRz19/s1600/IMG_0756.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Tour guide had some diesel problems. We made it though!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMnHrLBkHq7v9DyEX6qwQsH_OnOgNdbPBXhNGc0tjK6yrBuJhW8i4oUqay3JjeD56ywOFd-ICQKW2bmV47tI1UrS51LHysbNk_pwxnGPtLBO00MfpZwz63oz-FrdwI-O4vwYxgM_DfHZqC/s1600/IMG_0808.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMnHrLBkHq7v9DyEX6qwQsH_OnOgNdbPBXhNGc0tjK6yrBuJhW8i4oUqay3JjeD56ywOFd-ICQKW2bmV47tI1UrS51LHysbNk_pwxnGPtLBO00MfpZwz63oz-FrdwI-O4vwYxgM_DfHZqC/s1600/IMG_0808.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Local Ruins</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJF37UtJ5rV5AQDNzmLjuMZEo_cT4nYucXTGDyP8ovniCunm_KbcLKQkLuxZJxr_KS2T91C0sMOPkRQgrf6W4cE40kUuGzIgocqwoBY75FYoXghBOMqsbma93iT0DaUwqU5heoL3G08_bP/s1600/IMG_0819.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJF37UtJ5rV5AQDNzmLjuMZEo_cT4nYucXTGDyP8ovniCunm_KbcLKQkLuxZJxr_KS2T91C0sMOPkRQgrf6W4cE40kUuGzIgocqwoBY75FYoXghBOMqsbma93iT0DaUwqU5heoL3G08_bP/s1600/IMG_0819.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Local kids</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We got back to Et Voila and had some visitors from a boat
next to us. We opened red wine and talked. All of a sudden we heard yelling and
it was a friend of Bruno’s named Matt. He had just caught a fish and was
rushing over on his inflatable to share it with us for dinner. When you catch a
fish here, you find a local to ask if it is edible or not. If you get a smile
and thumbs up, eat it. We ate it…Thank you Matt!! See you in Tahiti!<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bruno left for Tahiti today to meet Erin, Marie and Marie’s husband.
We are alone. Weird… As I am writing this, there are Canoe races. Behind the
canoes, there is a small boat with a motor and one man and two young girls. I
watched and the girls’ only purpose was to use cups to bail water out of the
small boat as it followed the canoes… We are not in Catalina anymore….<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03471059532461159422noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3358276371486559811.post-38544506199518205932014-05-02T15:21:00.002-07:002014-06-30T16:49:17.994-07:00Up to Marquesas Arrival<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 18.39px;"><u>From Wanda</u></span><br />
<span style="line-height: 18.39px;"><u><br /></u></span>
<b><u><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></u></b>
<b><u><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Friday, April 4, 2014<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">We will be
sailing to the Marquesas Islands tomorrow with Bruno Bomati and Marie Laroche.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Marie has
flown here from France to join us on this passage. We are grateful to them both
for their knowledge and wonderful companionship. Merci!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Marie,
Bruno, and his wife Erin met us at the boat this morning and then we went
shopping to finish our provisioning of fresh fruits, vegetables and French
Cheese. Our cart was overflowing and food was falling off on the way to the car.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Theo and I
had bought refrigerated and frozen items from Costco to bring with us for our
trip, but we forgot a lot of it at home. Ironically, Bruno and Marie had done
the same with many of the things they had bought from Trader Joe’s. Theo has a
printer on board and even forgot to bring paper for it (thank you Charlie for
the paper!). We had to laugh. In the end, we had the important things here with
us. We had each other, our fearless dogs Mambo and Isabel (cough), our
passports and, of course, we remembered to bring wine… All is very good.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">It is a
sailor’s superstition that one should never start a long voyage on a Friday, so
we moored in Catalina for the night. On the way there we had a whale surface about
200 feet on our starboard side. Unfortunately, I was on the port side. I
listened to my husband for the next 15 minutes telling me “she was right
there!” pointing at the water next to our boat. Patience…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">After
mooring in Two Harbors, we were joined by Charlie and friends for a little
going away bash. We broke open the Pata Negra prosciutto leg from Spain (from
now on known as the Magic Ham), Charlie brought a huge bottle of very special
French wine (the Magic Bottle) that we drank willingly. When we reach the
equator, we will fill the bottle with our messages and throw it into the
ocean. We had a very fun and special
evening. Friends, laughter and great memories… Thank you to all! Merci…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqtaXXSBIIjjS40rz6ziuoYs1gQsH3_k9oUMRRm8aQ1M0XPQfB5Do7RK1uxrXOVThZdAGSYMQK57JrANwZRO2ihKVi1T39ezz5KqBZczWDad17W1mi_oB-Z5H4BXjO8jqszjucTalfjrHm/s1600/IMG_0184.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqtaXXSBIIjjS40rz6ziuoYs1gQsH3_k9oUMRRm8aQ1M0XPQfB5Do7RK1uxrXOVThZdAGSYMQK57JrANwZRO2ihKVi1T39ezz5KqBZczWDad17W1mi_oB-Z5H4BXjO8jqszjucTalfjrHm/s1600/IMG_0184.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pata Negra. We are not roughing it...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjInm0vo8HgAl_u3o0SaWLKlpDaDGUq6tDKKNgctTdi4XcQlJiZfJ8dzG-788EsCG1YUggNmtLMhht9UKzh_KndSBML1p3wOmiqzZANS_gbq-cZ2cW58gm9BxTuTs4bG4MBJ87ndsN0fThh/s1600/IMG_0206.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjInm0vo8HgAl_u3o0SaWLKlpDaDGUq6tDKKNgctTdi4XcQlJiZfJ8dzG-788EsCG1YUggNmtLMhht9UKzh_KndSBML1p3wOmiqzZANS_gbq-cZ2cW58gm9BxTuTs4bG4MBJ87ndsN0fThh/s1600/IMG_0206.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Crew. Theo, Wanda, Marie, Bruno.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeBo_bC3hgwWEQddBMTjlmhp_hA_FncRrsv_Jlo_1shkNqJuHL9msmrLCxbzi66u-p92Tj_4L2cHjCPj-8zVoey2ytd5nmSlvPppw4a9omr3Vd8ARi6cEoUTEnA8cFcaEm-5y7Mb1Ofgut/s1600/IMG_0223.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeBo_bC3hgwWEQddBMTjlmhp_hA_FncRrsv_Jlo_1shkNqJuHL9msmrLCxbzi66u-p92Tj_4L2cHjCPj-8zVoey2ytd5nmSlvPppw4a9omr3Vd8ARi6cEoUTEnA8cFcaEm-5y7Mb1Ofgut/s1600/IMG_0223.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arthur and Charlie in Catalina</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTZvBRMNM-DUl2Orm1WfxFrxttiQCsNpiojOf2apr2NhRPCl_WiJQ6B-tDfchfyEHnP79gEu_t8h1DRYms-qBNJwHPDSuD-Y3fbHiQwC9oJIrSSAx0t6xDOXz2_AGF9fGP_kGSgNzkTa11/s1600/IMG_0272.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTZvBRMNM-DUl2Orm1WfxFrxttiQCsNpiojOf2apr2NhRPCl_WiJQ6B-tDfchfyEHnP79gEu_t8h1DRYms-qBNJwHPDSuD-Y3fbHiQwC9oJIrSSAx0t6xDOXz2_AGF9fGP_kGSgNzkTa11/s1600/IMG_0272.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dolphins playing by our bow</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Lesson for
today: Perhaps it is better to leave on a bad luck Friday sober than to leave
on a Saturday after a big going away party.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Quote for
today: “You are not old until regret replaces your dreams”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">French words
for today: Vin Rouge <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Translation:
Red Wine <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">OCEAN
SIGHTINGS: One Whale (by everyone else except me…)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><u>Saturday
April 5<sup> </sup>2014<o:p></o:p></u></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Departure
from Catalina Island<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">In the
morning we went onshore with the dogs and walked from Two Harbors to the Cat
harbor (this is not a long walk). It would be the last time we would be on land
for 20 days… even longer for Isabel and Mambo. We spent more time with our
friends from the Naos Group, had some cheeseburgers and then literally sailed
into the sunset. It was a great way to start our voyage. Theo and I have spent
the last 21 years sailing to Catalina. We have watched it evolve and change. We
have so many memories on that island. We know that it will be a long time
before we return. It was very special for us to leave from there. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Just as we
sailed past the last part of land we would see for a while, dolphins surfaced
and swam with our boat. I felt as if they were wishing us well. We are finally
making our big sailing adventure happen!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Lesson for
Today: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">If you tie
up your dogs outside the restaurant at Two Harbors, every child in the
immediate area will play with and pet them… very nice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Quote for
Today: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“This time,
like all other times, is a very good one, if we know what to do with it.” Ralph
Waldo Emerson<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">French words
for Today: Nous commencons notre voyage aujourd’hui. Translation: We begin our
voyage today<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Ocean sightings:
Dolphins wishing us well<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Tears Shed:
A few when I said Goodbye to Charlie in Catalina. It was an emotional moment
for many reasons.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><u>April 6 – 12<sup>
</sup>, 2014<o:p></o:p></u></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Week One<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The mornings
are very special. Coffee with dolphins, Coffee with Whales…It is all good. We
were outside of the United States on the first full day of sailing. The last
piece of land we saw was Guadalupe Island (known for Great White Sharks). We
will not see land again until we reach the Marquesas. Et Voila is performing
beautifully. Not much to do… She is taking care of herself and our auto pilot
(Wilson) is working constantly to keep her moving towards our destination, more
or less (it is a sailboat after all…). The weather, wind and the ocean vary
frequently. Some days are warm and we are gently moving and rolling along.
Other days are gloomy and we feel like a pin ball being bounced around. Boing, Boing, Boing (I’m sure you get the
picture)... I should tell you that I have never felt unsafe. I know our boat
was built for much rougher conditions than what we are experiencing. I was
lying in bed listening to the sounds and just taking in the sensation of being
in the open ocean. I have to say it is like being in a safe bubble in a washing
machine. That is all my brain could come up with. There’s lots of swishing,
groaning, cracking, banging and rocking… but not too bad. On some of the more
challenging nights, it feels like I am still in the washing machine, but instead
of being on gentle cycle, it is now on heavy duty cycle. Also, every so often,
it feels like that T-Rex from Jurassic Park is ramming the washing machine
trying to get to me. Yeah… that is what it feels and sounds like.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Theo is in
his element… so he is happy and working hard.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Marie and
Bruno are lovely. They are wonderful company, amazing and responsible sailors.
We are so grateful for their knowledge and companionship. Bruno was teaching me
how to trim the sails. I am honored. Marie has become a good friend. I know my
experience would not be as comfortable without her. She has taught me how to
make Panna Cotta and I help her with her English. She told me that she believes
very strongly that after two months in French Polynesia, I will speak French
well. I will do my best. The dogs have been a tremendous comfort for me personally.
They had a rough time of it the first few days, but now they are calm and have
adapted well to our new reality. They lift our mood and make us laugh… a lot!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 12pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">We have caught two fish so far. One was a Mahi Mahi (ceviche)
and the other was a Yellowfin Tuna (Sashimi). We will not need to fish again
this week.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 12pt;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGLQQXWJAcwR2FfXeNP1YhKWHywmCfgJ4Zo2CwO-__uMxbNEFwmnZ_nP-SmMvp_qRXEF2Uk3-0R5VXEuTyC2AtJEgiRzUefhRYw8gE2IQx2JyVat-5H0BmKcZSdFRTdS_lmagOCq0S00Ro/s1600/IMG_0402.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGLQQXWJAcwR2FfXeNP1YhKWHywmCfgJ4Zo2CwO-__uMxbNEFwmnZ_nP-SmMvp_qRXEF2Uk3-0R5VXEuTyC2AtJEgiRzUefhRYw8gE2IQx2JyVat-5H0BmKcZSdFRTdS_lmagOCq0S00Ro/s1600/IMG_0402.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yellowfin Tuna. Very strong fish yet it has very tender meat.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLa3HiPh48zCqAimhfyUB0CT1oquBKSBKSzSwr_5sMN3fqgbar13dC4EcAk1pJJINT4dbF0lo29RFpCYcfBGUpQBcg8DNWHeHZOyult-4QjfdZ1D82c4pT8J7AKMJojJNBGoO9jaUMyPhE/s1600/IMG_0353.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLa3HiPh48zCqAimhfyUB0CT1oquBKSBKSzSwr_5sMN3fqgbar13dC4EcAk1pJJINT4dbF0lo29RFpCYcfBGUpQBcg8DNWHeHZOyult-4QjfdZ1D82c4pT8J7AKMJojJNBGoO9jaUMyPhE/s1600/IMG_0353.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting the Spinnaker ready.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ8tmzPNYoMn7DJXqjjM0WM1RU1cFDEq_rgbgv26sU9XJ-SyVQOW0M3m1JsYkxiPj2WNahPk8g640RoM6gnzeUFegpfet_Ds-a_era1H_xRWv-DwTuWvwZBzFTfaYhl5WoMTyEvi_AlA9k/s1600/IMG_0415.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ8tmzPNYoMn7DJXqjjM0WM1RU1cFDEq_rgbgv26sU9XJ-SyVQOW0M3m1JsYkxiPj2WNahPk8g640RoM6gnzeUFegpfet_Ds-a_era1H_xRWv-DwTuWvwZBzFTfaYhl5WoMTyEvi_AlA9k/s1600/IMG_0415.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wanda and the dogs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR-SDWD9oFyhMKVK6ba2_XPPvPkQgMq4JovsSyNCCnAx9E4njHwG7ePShCzidjGpUxCApEMPk94rSH77acmZVAAyKFq_h887wyEPWBxLXm9Qb3EdxIPyueD3QnqJEs6GaGMVqCUgVVefjB/s1600/IMG_0478.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR-SDWD9oFyhMKVK6ba2_XPPvPkQgMq4JovsSyNCCnAx9E4njHwG7ePShCzidjGpUxCApEMPk94rSH77acmZVAAyKFq_h887wyEPWBxLXm9Qb3EdxIPyueD3QnqJEs6GaGMVqCUgVVefjB/s1600/IMG_0478.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bird resting on our boat.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQc9FsHwnBfvQolqrdHvL8EF0baGeVXA3qhOq6pinOBR-nJ7a-5lc0-gCYkQhXdS5DIkHM36CrjsuJnZ6rJbqunD3zvghkhGUfU-kmou5yXrLqhqQrZ4PuylnTpuYfYjD9jI951OTe6b66/s1600/IMG_0565.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQc9FsHwnBfvQolqrdHvL8EF0baGeVXA3qhOq6pinOBR-nJ7a-5lc0-gCYkQhXdS5DIkHM36CrjsuJnZ6rJbqunD3zvghkhGUfU-kmou5yXrLqhqQrZ4PuylnTpuYfYjD9jI951OTe6b66/s1600/IMG_0565.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Isabel checking the flying fish.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Lessons for
this week:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">1) Do not
try to trim or pluck your eyebrows while on the open ocean.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">2) If you
catch a fish on your pole while eating lunch, do not leave Mambo unattended at
the table.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">3) Always, leave
one hand free at all times to hold on to something stable.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Quotes for
this week: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“How much
pain they have cost us, the evils which have never happened” Thomas Jefferson<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“I have not
ceased being fearful, but I have ceased to let fear control me. I have accepted
fear as part of my life, specifically the fear of change, the fear of the
unknown. I have gone ahead despite the pounding in the heart that says: Turn
back, turn back; You will die if you venture too far” Erica Jong<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“You have a
brain in your head and feet in your shoes… you can steer yourself any direction
you choose” Dr. Seuss<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">French words
for this week: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Le Chien a
Faim. Translation: The dog is hungry <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Passe moi le
poisson s’il te plait. Translation: Please pass the fish<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Café avec les
dauphins ce matin. Translation: Coffee with dolphins this morning<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Je mo sens
heureu se et de’tende. Translation: I feel Happy and Relaxed<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Ocean
Sightings: Whales, dolphins, flying fish, one military airplane that did a low
level fly-by (I will never forget Marie’s horrified expression), a black bird
with yellow and red wings that hitched a ride with us for an hour or so, a
butterfly (I swear…Theo saw it too), a 620 foot Cargo ship heading in our
direction between 2 and 4 am, one Mahi Mahi and one Yellow Fin Tuna on our
fishing poles and now in our bellies.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Books: The
Sex Lives of Cannibals by J. Maarten Troost<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">An
Embarrassment of Mangoes by Ann Vanderhoof<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Artists on
my playlist: Rusted Root, Peter Frampton, Colin Hay, Gypsy Kings , Michael
Franti and the Spearhead, Bee Gees, Bob
Marley<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Tears Shed:
Zero<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><u>April 13-19,2014<o:p></o:p></u></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Week Two<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">As of Sunday
the 13<sup>th</sup>, we have sailed 980 miles. We are between the Hawaiian
Islands and the Galapagos. We will be in the Doldrums in 6 to 7 days. This is
an area with no wind or light variable winds just north of the equator. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The wind is
picking up to 20 knots and the ocean is choppy. Et Voila is surfing the swells
and handling it very well. The boys are
busy with the sails and I am trying to cook dinner (this experience will be in
the Lessons section which follows). Marie has nicknamed me Cordon-Bleu, after
the famous French cooking school, because I love to cook. I have been spending a lot of my time chopping
and peeling. I enjoy creating different meals with what we have available on
board. Our water maker has stopped working. There is enough water for the four
of us and the dogs to drink, but no showers and only salt water to wash the
plates and glasses. Theo is so frustrated.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The ocean
really affects your mood. When it is sunny and blue skies I feel happy. When it
is storming, grey and choppy I feel sad. It is very intensely felt here. Every
day is like a different season. Is it summer today? No, it is winter today… Yesterday
was summer…Darn. The wind changes very quickly. It picked up to 26 knots during
Theo and Bruno’s shifts. During mine it calmed to 16 knots and we were sailing
at 8 knots steady. As of day 10, we have sailed 1,300 straight miles.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">There have
been three birds soaring over our boat all day. Our boat is stirring up the
flying fish and the birds are diving after them. I have never seen so many
flying fish. They are not like the larger ones we see in Catalina. Much smaller
and everywhere!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">No one
sleeps very well. T Rex is becoming more aggressive. Our larger dog, Mambo, has
been sleeping on a dog cushion at the foot of our bed. He gets startled by the hull
banging, so lately we feel his wet nose
on our feet at night. Now it is the four of us in the tiny bed and Mambo is not
considerate with the amount of space he takes up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I woke up
the next morning and was really tired. I was greeted by Theo (before my cup of
coffee) who enthusiastically asked me to clean a flying fish he had found on
the deck. He has never eaten a flying
fish before, so he wanted to fry it up. I knew what my answer was immediately.
Remember, NO is a complete sentence. Unfortunately for me, I couldn’t stop my
mind from imagining myself actually cleaning the fish. I was very green for the
rest of the morning and wanted to punch Theo in the nose. He gave me some
crackers and ginger tea… all was forgiven. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Before our
departure, I envisioned that the dark nights would be frightening. Now that I
have experienced them, I have to say it is peaceful and gorgeous. It is perhaps
my favorite time of the day. It is not dark. The moon is big and bright. You
can watch it rise from the horizon like the sun rises in the morning. The stars
are a meditation for me. I have never seen anything like it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The big
swells (10-15 feet) continue and Et Voila is surfing them. They look like they
are as tall as the boat, and then we are lifted up as they passed underneath
us. If you want to see it with a glass half-full attitude, it is like the
swells are helping by pushing us along toward our destination… Yeah, that’s
it… If you want to forget your past pain
and future worries, jump on a boat and go to the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Watch
the swells. You will be in the present moment and you mind will be quiet. It is
awesome and humbling. We are nothing at all actually, in this ocean. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">On our
radar, we can usually see a storm coming. One was approaching during my shift
(2-4 am). It is unsettling to watch a really huge red and yellow blob on the
radar screen coming closer and closer. Our autopilot, Wilson (in wind Vane
mode), actually turned our boat around to get away from the storm… We were
headed back to California. Wilson is smart.
It was the most intense night. The rain and wind picked up tremendously
and changed direction (that’s why Wilson, who was following the wind, turned
around). Lying in bed, I realized that Godzilla has joined T Rex in his efforts
to get into the washing machine.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh-lNKj-qfbpqDRI9zD1YXj9rKi7PCIyhiyXBwp9MHaUKAJ1TBiEsHTlxWF8KiA4J62i7P2vqZ_t5p9DySAbMxA2NaIZClihRaa3VS8WmcRKwuoFt2x5TZLTRJmQB3FdNLzaEXPzyjbK7n/s1600/IMG_0485.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh-lNKj-qfbpqDRI9zD1YXj9rKi7PCIyhiyXBwp9MHaUKAJ1TBiEsHTlxWF8KiA4J62i7P2vqZ_t5p9DySAbMxA2NaIZClihRaa3VS8WmcRKwuoFt2x5TZLTRJmQB3FdNLzaEXPzyjbK7n/s1600/IMG_0485.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Squall showing on the Radar. We were right under it...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMNLbDJ-6LRex1e7C04v7p_6TnaYLWST4LiTFbnnzKs5VOJZvB0ITiMP5r0ynoDJz8C_uNavXW4EVrcD8m50R3wqjo-qksxg7psDpwEgMVgCm_OB6o_l90s0ql6dlmPkvMKRUKmIQLdd1R/s1600/IMG_0500.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMNLbDJ-6LRex1e7C04v7p_6TnaYLWST4LiTFbnnzKs5VOJZvB0ITiMP5r0ynoDJz8C_uNavXW4EVrcD8m50R3wqjo-qksxg7psDpwEgMVgCm_OB6o_l90s0ql6dlmPkvMKRUKmIQLdd1R/s1600/IMG_0500.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Lessons for
this week:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">1) Do not
bring more chocolate than you can eat before the equatorial heat hits. You will
have chocolate fondue.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">2) Corelle dishes
are not break and chip resistant after all.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">3) Boiling
water for pasta is not a super smart
idea during a squall… Have a can of tuna instead.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">4) Flying
fish are quite tasty when fried in butter.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">5) Bringing
make up or lotions here is pointless… Whatever
you put on your face slides off within seconds.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Quotes for
this week:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“Don’t wait,
the time will never be just right” Napoleon Hill<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“I don’t
know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everyone”
Bill Cosby<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“I can be
changed by what happens to me. But I refuse to be reduced by it” Maya Angelou<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“Hold on to
your Butts” Jurassic Park Movie<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">French words
for this week: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Il fait
tre’s chaud pour le moment. Translation: It is very warm at the moment<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Poisson
Volant. Translation: Flying Fish<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Le lune est
belle. Translation: The moon is beautiful<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Mon esprit
est tre’s tranquille. Translation: My mind is very quiet<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Il ya un
dinosaur a l’exterieur. Translation: There is a dinosaur outside<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Ocean
Sightings:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Flying fish
everywhere (one in our shower, one in Bruno’s shower, one on our bow
trampoline, one in our bed, and one dried up small fish we found between our
headboard and mattress. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Three birds
kamikaze diving for the fish.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Dolphins.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Books: The
Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The Dive
From Clausen’s Pier by Ann Packer <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Artists on
my playlist:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Train, Paolo
Nutini, Eels, Pepe and the Bottle Blonds, John Cruz and Pharrell Williams<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Tears Shed:
Zero<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><u>Easter Sunday
April 20,2014<o:p></o:p></u></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Crossing the
Equator<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">It is a
beautiful morning. It is sunny, blue skies and smooth sailing. Phew! Marie is
making Panna Cotta for our dessert tonight and I am preparing Hard Boiled Eggs
and Fresh Boat Bread for our Easter lunch. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Today is very
exciting and important for all of us. We have 55 miles until we reach the
equator. We will be there around 8 o’clock tonight .This is a tremendous
accomplishment for all of us. None of us has experienced it before. We will
reach Hiva Oa in the Marquesas in 700 miles. Hopefully the wind and ocean will
stay consistent from now on… Ha!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">For our
Equatorial Crossing dinner, Bruno cooked up some amazing scallops with a
balsamic sauce. Next was Pasta with Langostinos, panna cotta and champagne. We
are all happy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">When we
reached the Equator it was about 9 PM and very dark. We dropped the sails, turned
on the underwater lights and jumped in. Theo was the first one to dive in and
he jumped from our flying bridge. For my jump, one hand was holding Marie’s and
in the other I had the journal that I kept during chemotherapy, surgery and
radiation treatments. It is now at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean. I have no
desire to remember one second of it. Done with that. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The water
was warm and we were very happy with the calm, star-filled night. I don’t know
how to describe the feeling of knowing you are swimming in the middle of the
largest ocean. Surreal I guess. Who knows the depth of it or what is lurking
around you. Once we were all back on board, we filled Charlie’s empty wine
bottle (the Magic Bottle we drank in Catatlina, remember?) with our individual
messages and released it into the ocean. Then, the four of us stood at the
stern for what felt like a very long time. We just stared up at the stars. They
are so vast. Mesmerizing. I don’t think I have ever seen anything so
spectacular. I believe that moment is the closest we will ever come to feeling
like we are in outer space. It was the best experience ever… Really.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDlKM1_460rylCpK_we-1xTxxuoow0AtBBP0gmSfCrMHxpIzQ2-DHlfWAP1NGYYGQNKW3D6eUrrn1511WZ12VyFkk9olz4erlypmlZAIe4uWMg47acjekj1GSBZdWTbZOYAIoYGOSm6TJa/s1600/IMG_0545.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDlKM1_460rylCpK_we-1xTxxuoow0AtBBP0gmSfCrMHxpIzQ2-DHlfWAP1NGYYGQNKW3D6eUrrn1511WZ12VyFkk9olz4erlypmlZAIe4uWMg47acjekj1GSBZdWTbZOYAIoYGOSm6TJa/s1600/IMG_0545.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The bottle is ready for the messages. Tee-shirts supporting ALS by NAOS Yacht Sales.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-SqtXp9TNTr8CH6Mviy9xxSteR1g_v4fEoPGN18gMy83OIlowsy__r36-rLAsRtelJsAByAD5zDMWXkMg2O_tzFeiY3CiGKrSWpNMp1wBbVZxY7MoL_lSYVzuGjrwUG6a3ispbAdi3UhX/s1600/IMG_0554.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-SqtXp9TNTr8CH6Mviy9xxSteR1g_v4fEoPGN18gMy83OIlowsy__r36-rLAsRtelJsAByAD5zDMWXkMg2O_tzFeiY3CiGKrSWpNMp1wBbVZxY7MoL_lSYVzuGjrwUG6a3ispbAdi3UhX/s1600/IMG_0554.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">If you find this bottle, let us know!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqht1fY7hxzt4Gha-eG4JivHUf4YIbF6FiR80F6dwYKjOqeJ2z41K8uViAajNapg2yBMWUZutVf25TcA0Cnj5g-xlGxcilA0x3WcqJi0aV9M4iZTfzrVjrU_pY93c1q_F70HKRZ6QsNttr/s1600/P4210196+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqht1fY7hxzt4Gha-eG4JivHUf4YIbF6FiR80F6dwYKjOqeJ2z41K8uViAajNapg2yBMWUZutVf25TcA0Cnj5g-xlGxcilA0x3WcqJi0aV9M4iZTfzrVjrU_pY93c1q_F70HKRZ6QsNttr/s1600/P4210196+%2528Copy%2529.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our swim at the equator...an unforgettable moment.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX-_IOVD-ggMB07r5TRIcMiOqGvVaE_hOISEz4VThZr2vM-7ce1U-T7Ti8mjxQz1jnCIYFWTr_GbRYVmCllGGtGlPZ36O6EoiGEIqyWrI2HA6Ce50WEaPL-cUZ7lUDreaTnDWBVVkLgwnV/s1600/IMG_0556.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX-_IOVD-ggMB07r5TRIcMiOqGvVaE_hOISEz4VThZr2vM-7ce1U-T7Ti8mjxQz1jnCIYFWTr_GbRYVmCllGGtGlPZ36O6EoiGEIqyWrI2HA6Ce50WEaPL-cUZ7lUDreaTnDWBVVkLgwnV/s1600/IMG_0556.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Celebrating at the Equator, in the middle of the Pacific after a swim under a clear star-filled sky.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Quote: “We
live in a world where man has walked on the moon. It’s not a miracle, we just
decided to go” Jim Lovell<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">French
Words: Oce’an tres somber Translation:
Very dark ocean<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Lesson: Tie
Mambo and Isabel to a secured leash attached to the boat before you jump into
the dark ocean<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Ocean
Sightings: Thankfully nothing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Song for
today: Waiting for my real life to begin By Colin Hay<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Tears Shed:
Zero<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><u> April 21-24, 2014<o:p></o:p></u></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Week Three<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The water
maker is still not working. Theo has tried everything he knows, but he can’t
work on it until we are anchored somewhere calm. We are salty, sticky and very
hot. We have been taking bucket showers on the stern. Not so bad…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Have I
mentioned that everything remains damp? You can hang things to dry in the
scorching sun and it always remains wet and smells a bit strange. This goes for
everything… Our table, the sheets, pillows, floor, clothing, mirrors… I could
go on and on. I am so grateful we bought airtight containers to store the
staples for our meals. Food goes stale very fast. Theo left a few shelled
pistachios in a bowl. When I tried to eat them 10 minutes later and they were
soggy. Once they get hit with the humidity, they are done.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">We are
getting many squalls at night. The wind has picked up again and we hardly have
any sails up. Steady at 5 knots. The mornings are grey and wet. For me, the
last 3 days were the most challenging. I was tired of holding on to the walls,
galley, lifelines… whatever I could find. The wind is all over the place. Just
when I think it might be clearing up, a fast moving dark cloud comes and dumps
on us. Wilson is still occasionally trying to return to California.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">As of April
23<sup>rd</sup>, we are 360 miles from Hiva Oa. So close. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Meanwhile,
Theo is still troubleshooting about the water maker. He thinks we will have to
have parts shipped to Hiva Oa. That will not be easy… Patience.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I truly feel
that the Pacific has been kind to us. Et Voila has been extremely strong and
safe throughout our crossing. I have never felt fearful that something bad
might happen (except for Mambo and I will explain that later). Of course we had
Bruno and Marie’s knowledge and help. Bruno is an amazing sailor and has taught
us many things that we were not aware of. Marie has been a great companion and
comfort to me personally. She is fun, smart and has made me laugh a lot. Plus,
they love our dogs and that is wonderful… Merci.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Speaking of
the dogs, let me share some stories. We were quite worried about how our
Cockapoo, Isabel, would handle this trip. She is usually quite the princess,
but in this case she has adapted to her new environment extremely well. She
stays close to us and loves looking at the water. We sit on the bow with her
and she is so happy to watch for fish, birds, whatever. When we caught a fish
the other day, she was whimpering and jumping and trying to bite it. This went
on for about 20 minutes. One night, a flying fish landed on Theo’s chest while
he was sleeping. Isabel was so, so happy… Theo was not. You are probably asking
yourself at this point “Why the hell don’t they just close the window in the
bedroom?” The answer is “No… too hot. We would rather sleep with fish”.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Mambo is a Portuguese
Waterdog and he is lovely, but usually not very aware of his surroundings. He
has handled these days very well. He will lie on a cushion on the stern and
waves will crash on him and he does not move. Every time he climbs up to sit
with us for lunch or dinner, be bangs his head on the table (he has done this
for 3 weeks). I am very impressed about his yoga-like ability to stand on three
legs and pee at the same time during a storm. I realized he had truly adapted
when I was having coffee one morning and watched him slide across the entire
length of the stern while pooping at the same time. Impressive!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Quotes for
this week: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“My goal in
life is to be as good of a person my dog already thinks I am” Anonymous<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“Let’s go
fast and get out of this shit” Bruno
Bomati<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“If you are
going through hell, keep going” Winston Churchill<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“Everything
will be okay in the end, if it’s not ok, it’s not the end”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Lessons of
this week: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">1) If you
decide to travel by boat to the South Pacific, do not bring anything of value.
It will rust, mold, deteriorate or just fly away.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">2) The
French believe that if you step in dog poo with your left shoe you will be
lucky for the rest of the year… Marie will be very lucky. Mambo made sure of
that…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">3) Ziploc
bags are priceless.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">4)
Clothespins can also be used as hair clips.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">5) Always
make sure the hatches are closed and the pillows inside when you see a black
cloud coming… You will have about 1 minute to do this.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">French words
of this week:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Glisser.
Translation: To slide<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Il ne fait
pas… tre’s chaud. Translation: No …too hot.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Je n’aime
pas ce temps. Translation: We do not
like this weather<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Allons nous
en. Translation: Let’s get out of here<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">C’est une
bonne ide’e. Translation: Good Idea<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Ocean
Sightings: One fish on our fishing pole… Ate it<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Books:
Exploring the Marquesas Islands by Joe Russell<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">On my
Playlist: Rod Stewart, Natalie Merchant, Matchbox Twenty, Dave Loggins and
Chris Isaak<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Tears Shed:
Zero<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><u>April 25,
2014. Land Ho!<o:p></o:p></u></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Our last
night was a stormy one. We are all tired, but excited because today we will see
the Hiva Oa island. Bruno and Marie said we should be able to smell it soon. I
never considered that you could smell land. We have 50 miles to go… It is a
wonderful day. I am calm and happy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">We began to
see the island on the horizon in the late afternoon. We had lunch and drank
champagne on the bow, silently watching as the shape of land became larger and
clearer. It is a very emotional and powerful moment when you realize you have
arrived….We have crossed the Pacific Ocean!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkvyUqpKbzhKDzTQDp6aRe02Kqu3cK0eTCK8ZF7XIYxSb6pt8UvzNBM2JjITW1BkO5_VzAbF37vxZ9aVUyvqMCC2dkam861TDfFqeln6Ru85-ISWxlu7XR9MCh_5yR1jtVW4Yb-ccZ3VfE/s1600/IMG_0586.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkvyUqpKbzhKDzTQDp6aRe02Kqu3cK0eTCK8ZF7XIYxSb6pt8UvzNBM2JjITW1BkO5_VzAbF37vxZ9aVUyvqMCC2dkam861TDfFqeln6Ru85-ISWxlu7XR9MCh_5yR1jtVW4Yb-ccZ3VfE/s1600/IMG_0586.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Land is in sight.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaleb3ARJyXaeaVLBoexK5EfC-UjP1yakLgmq4qhG-SUwrCMjtiCBaKjX2djmJe5RnfHmfPdyXtZioHvOdFioGYakhighm9Uai_bAc01uwyh6QSLc2Vh55TdYNk0E31CPHJXynMG9ke2uq/s1600/IMG_0600.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaleb3ARJyXaeaVLBoexK5EfC-UjP1yakLgmq4qhG-SUwrCMjtiCBaKjX2djmJe5RnfHmfPdyXtZioHvOdFioGYakhighm9Uai_bAc01uwyh6QSLc2Vh55TdYNk0E31CPHJXynMG9ke2uq/s1600/IMG_0600.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hiva Oa in the background.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Quote for
today: “Nothing is worth more than this
day”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Lesson for
today: You can smell land after being on the open ocean for 20 days<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">French Words
for today: Nous sommes fous. Translation: We are crazy<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Tears Shed:
Quite a few when I first saw Hiva Oa, but they were happy tears<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03471059532461159422noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3358276371486559811.post-47857849947311819842014-04-03T05:39:00.000-07:002014-04-04T13:08:52.209-07:00The Beginning<u>From Theo</u><br />
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Hello Everyone!<br />
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My wife (Wanda) and I (Theo) and our two dogs (Mambo, a Portuguese Waterdog and Isabel, a CockaPoo) aboard our <a href="http://www.cata-lagoon.com/lagoon_450_video_uk.php">Lagoon 450</a> sailing catamaran are about to start a sailing adventure to South Pacific and beyond... We have been thinking about doing this for a long time but there was always something to stop us. Finally, we realized that there will always be something. We just had to make the decision and do it. So, here we are, two days away from the start of our adventure!<br />
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6cMKWzbumdZcXMMzcj4jO6eFtYxnjX5xjV3_s2i1eMNT7g9tQQOLGvXxJnkxm0xHwgb03nmmMfTFMPt4Dwo8YsCjF_3UwCm-PUIe_m98YAYA-r9xEYP7LLh6Sk6WPYQRw_zV6EOO0SbSZ/s1600/P1020640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6cMKWzbumdZcXMMzcj4jO6eFtYxnjX5xjV3_s2i1eMNT7g9tQQOLGvXxJnkxm0xHwgb03nmmMfTFMPt4Dwo8YsCjF_3UwCm-PUIe_m98YAYA-r9xEYP7LLh6Sk6WPYQRw_zV6EOO0SbSZ/s1600/P1020640.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">At delivery day in Marina Del Rey.</td></tr>
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We have been working on our boat for close to a year now. Trying to learn it, as we were powerboat people, adding and fixing equipment, etc. Again, there will always be something. It is a boat after all and, as you all know, there is no such a thing as a perfect boat. There is always something to work on, which I seem to be constantly doing... Overall, the boat is great and is working fine. There are no major issues. It is fully equipped with the latest/greatest safety equipment, charts, etc. I must confess that I enjoy researching and, most of all, I always over prepare, almost to a fault. So, I have at least two of everything, almost...<br />
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieHcSjS1EK8SH4TiXu5_44Cr5SmCRXg61oD9yJ1A8IwiLLI62EEH45v6dGJx-N69-eLpCdnCMAJ1cVbmmQU_3k0sjeXum3sjkkrEIOjbF2k0sLU1xm7KydCJfdaDDROB_7u9Mtyj53_S6F/s1600/Los+Angeles-20130324-00294.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieHcSjS1EK8SH4TiXu5_44Cr5SmCRXg61oD9yJ1A8IwiLLI62EEH45v6dGJx-N69-eLpCdnCMAJ1cVbmmQU_3k0sjeXum3sjkkrEIOjbF2k0sLU1xm7KydCJfdaDDROB_7u9Mtyj53_S6F/s1600/Los+Angeles-20130324-00294.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">One of our first times sailing alone.</td></tr>
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I know that real sailors will be laughing at me when they see our poor overloaded boat. But, we are planning to enjoy this trip, in every way possible. I am really looking forward to start slicing the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jam%C3%B3n_ib%C3%A9rico">Pata Negra ham</a> leg I have on board! As much as I am looking forward to the fresh sashimi from the fish we will, hopefully, catch along the way. I really expect us to gain weight during our 3 week sail to Marquesas.<br />
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Did I mention that we will have two French friends with us? Bruno, a VERY experienced sailor and sailmaker (<a href="http://www.uksailmakers.com/">UK Sails</a>), and Marie, a way more experienced sailor than us who flew from France for this trip, will be with us for the trip to Marquesas. Thankfully, they speak great English and do not mind my almost constant questions. It also goes without saying that we will have lots of French wine on board, at least for the majority of the trip.<br />
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Our official departure date is Friday but, since sailors are superstitious, one never starts a trip on Friday. So, we will sail to Catalina, meet our friend Charlie (owner of <a href="http://naosyachts.com/">NAOS Yacht Sales</a>, our favorite Lagoon dealer), eat and drink lots of wine, spend the night and start our S. Pacific trip on Saturday. Can't wait to leave the marina.<br />
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Finally, I have to say that I am very proud of my wife of 24 years who suffered incredibly through her breast cancer ordeal. She is finally problem free and ready to experience life with much more focus and hunger. I am also changed from this experience. Many things that used to be important, do not even register now. I guess you can say that we are both hungry to experience life. Life is too short and no one knows what happens moment to moment.<br />
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<u>From Wanda</u><br />
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Hello to my family and dear friends,</div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I am not nuts...I swear. I just wanted to make that clear </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">from the get go. Let’s start by explaining how the idea </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">of sailing to the South Pacific began. My husband Theo </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">and I have always loved the ocean and owned a power boat. He is from Greece and </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">I am first generation Italian and most of my family lives in </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Rome. Obviously, these are beautiful places with many islands </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">and we have been fortunate enough to visit some of them. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">We would walk through the marinas there and see the sailboats </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">and dream about what it would be like to have a boat in Greece. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">We love Catalina, but we decided we wanted to explore more of the </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">world. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Et Voila!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The giant light bulb appeared and the idea was </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">permanently </span>embedded<span style="font-family: inherit;"> in our brains. This was a long time ago. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Gradually we felt the time was right to begin actually doing something </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">about our dream. We purchased a 450 Lagoon Catamaran on December </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">31st 2012 and wanted to race in the Trans Pac to Hawaii in July. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">We were almost ready, but on May 15th, 2013 I was diagnosed with Breast </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Cancer. Our life flipped on a dime, but we knew that our plans were not canceled, just postponed. With support from family and </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">loving friends I endured what I had to and have now moved on to have </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">even more determination to reach not Hawaii, but the incredible Marquesas Islands. With the help and companionship of our </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">new cruising friends, Bruno and Marie, the time has come and we could not be more excited. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Planning, packing and long goodbyes. Now the adventure </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">begins!! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Et Voila...Here it is!!! Love to all...W</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03471059532461159422noreply@blogger.com16