Divide and Conquer
Early December 2021

Thanksgiving was spent at anchor off Yasawa Island. After a couple weeks we were in a scuttle to get back to Vuda with a couple of low pressure systems building around Solomons West of Fiji. Of course, this early in the year, they turned out to be nothing big but it gave its a chance to retrovision and order some parts.

John has begun to organize his work plan for the off season and it includes some pretty aggressive projects like redoing the part of interior flooring, replace water heater, canvas repairs and getting materials and parts takes some coordination. I have decided to return to the States for the holidays and take care of routine health appointments after almost three years and avoid the construction/destruction. Just as soon as I booked tickets, another variant of covid developed. Fiji has opened its borders to air flights again December 1 but returning may be another problem.
Once we had everything in motion, we decided to spend our last two weeks together playing around in the islands.

Summer in Fiji is really very lovely and some of the calmest water and best sunsets. It is officially a "La Nina" year so we've had off and on rain and lightening most afternoons in 90 degree temps. It is great to visit familiar spots and find new anchorages but I am seeing them all with new eyes knowing that I will be away a while.

Cell service is marginal some places so we have to get back into range near a resort every other week to catch up on the covid news and get incoming emails about changing forms, tests and affidavits I will need in order to travel. So far it is still a go despite the new variant. There is so much more commercial boat traffic now that Fiji is open to tourists; between supply barges and guest delivery boats we have to keep a good watch between islands. No more going down to start lunch or read an absorbing book. There is a feeling of excitement and dread to know we again share this paradise.

Looks like a possible cyclone forming, this time predicted to hit New Caledonia but that is fairly close so time to return to Vuda Marina and get me set up to travel. Our yoga group has remained strong despite al the comings and goings so we had a holiday lunch and took a 2021 group picture. It gives me great memories thinking of all the people I have met through Vuda yoga time. Today I will have my last Kokoda Fish for several months at the BoatShed Restaurant. I look forward to seeing family and loved ones but miss this home away from home.

I will get word out once John confirms his travel plans so we can see as many of you as possible - after the holidays.