Tuesday 22 December Repairs, refits and replenishing

Our repairs are now complete; the new guard rail looks beautiful and much happier than the sad picture we were in January. The life ring is back, but lifebuoy and kayak are yet to be fitted; we want to admire the shine.

Philippines in January



damaged part cut off and away for repair

New rail fitted December

A new, thicker, stronger teak table in the cockpit and our 'sushi bar' (an extra table top which fixes to the arms of the helm seat when we're anchored) are the boat equivalent of a new haircut; a subtle and uplifting refit.

table and sushi bar

Yesterday was dedicating to replenishing our stores. We have guests coming for Christmas; Amy and Andrew from Perth, Australia, are visiting us until the New Year. This is a second visit and a late wedding gift. We met Andramy in NZ in early 2011 and they came to see us in Fiji later that year en route to moving to Australia. In 2012 they married on our wedding anniversary. Our gift to them was a holiday on Jackster. More than 3 years, two established careers and for once, coinciding availabities, we welcome them back tomorrow.



should we have bought more?

With the luxury of a car to reach the shops, boat alongside and a handy trolley we could max out. Probably the only thing we didn't buy were frogs. Yes, the fishmonger had dead frogs for sale - a delicacy for some which has passed us by.

frogs on a slab

And at the end of the day when all the shopping had been put away there was still time for a refreshing dip in the pool.