April 2nd - Long Pants Again

On Friday we spent the evening with Robert and Karine in their home for
dinner. The food was terrific and the company wonderful.

One Saturday morning we returned the car rental (they had simply asked if I
wanted to pay when I brought the car back when I picked it up (no credit
card info required), and did not try to sell me any kind of additional
insurance).

Then we went over to Robert and Karine's again for juice and coffee and to
talk about the possibility of them visiting Colorado. And, of course, since
I am their children's adopted American grandmother, to hug and say my
goodbyes to them (and their cats and dogs).

Then it was time to load up the luggage and head over to the ferry. We took
the 10:45 ferry over to Papeete, Tahiti to begin our long journey home.
Since our flight was not leaving until 11:59 that evening, we checked into
the Sofitel and enjoyed their pool and air conditioning.

I could not resist adding some flowers and one last Polynesian sunset.

We arrived home about 10:30 last night. I took JIII home and stopped the
store for some groceries and planned on getting right to bed. It was not to
be, sleep eluded me. Between the four hour time difference and excitement of
being home, I was wide awake. I decided to go ahead and start the unpacking
process and doing some laundry. Finally got to bed a little after 4AM. I am
tired today!

A friend called me this morning from the Red Sea about 8AM, so I decided to
stay up and try to get back on schedule today. Was glad to hear that he is
safe since he is presently sailing in the "pirate waters" on his way to
Egypt.

The trip was great and exceeded all my expectations. I met many wonderful
people and was fortunate to have so many be so kind as to invite me into
their homes. The French language is so musical. The men all sound so gallant
when they speak, and then they kiss you on the cheeks and make you feel so
pretty. Who cares if you can't understand a word of what they are saying. I
have not been kissed so much since I was a child. My great Aunts were big on
kissing your cheeks .I have fond memories of the lovely whiffs of perfumed
powder they always wore.

Saturday was the first time in long pants since January 3rd, and it looks
like I will have to be in them again today, what's up with that?

This has been the first time I have done a blog, I hope you have enjoyed it
as much as I have. I found the process made me more aware of the beauty and
people around me, it added to the experience.

Not sure yet where I will head to next, but as soon as I know I will let you
know!