Goodbyes and Farewells!

Jackamy
Paul & Derry Harper
Wed 24 Mar 2010 17:02
 
Wednesday 24th March
 
It's back to normality now. Jane and Kim left first thing on Sunday morning, the day we returned from the cruise and we watched the new guests board Coral 1 in the afternoon. It had been a long day but as it was Jack and Amanda's last night we arranged to eat at the Red Mangrove hotel. It has a sushi restaurant that we can see along the sea front from the boat so we thought we'd give it a try with Blue Magic. Mark had to drop out as he has the dredded bug again. It's still working it's way through everyone and showing no sign of letting up. Anyway, we had a lovely evening that was somewhat spoit by a monsoon shower. We sheltered for about 20 minutes until Amy and Jack made a run for it as they were already an hour late to meet someone. Paul, Chrissy and Ashley, Chrissy's brother-in-law who is sailing across the Pacific with them, followed soon after which just left me and Amanda waiting. When we eventually plucked up the courage to step out into the rain that was falling like stair rods I slipped over, landed on my back and bruised my coccyx. It is now very painful to walk up and down steps so it's a good job we only have 4 to get down the companionway!
 
  
 
At the restaurant
 
 
Sheltering from the rain
 
  
 
Soaked!
 
The next morning was emotional - it was time to say bye to Jack and Amanda! Amy is already missing her playmate and I'm missing my baby!
 
  
 
 
Last night Paul and Mark had arranged a party for mine and Chrissy's 50th birthdays. It was Chrissy's actually birthday yesterday so I kind of gatecrashed but I don't think she minded. I've been done even better than the Queen this year as I'm having 3 birthdays! The party was supposed to be a surprise but it was leaked out on the radio where we both heard the announcement, nevermind, it was lovely of them to sort something out. And they did a lovely job. The restaurant was in a perfect setting just at the entrance to the anchorage looking out to sea, very classy! And a great night was had by all!
 
  
 
  
 
We were truely spoilt! We were given so many lovely gifts from all the ralliers and it was a lovely way to spend our last but one night before we set sail for the Marquesas. 8 boats left yesterday and 14 are leaving today. We are setting off tomorrow with Blue Magic, Mercury Rising and Miss Tippy so there are lots of last minute preparations going on today.
 
We will be doing daily blogs on the crossing, although that is weather permitting. Some may be uploaded a couple of days late if we are in rough seas.
 
Bon voyage for now, Paul, Derry and Amy x