Saturday, August 7, 2010

Huahine Highs

The following pictures tell the story of a fabulous time on the wonderful Society Island of Huahine. The wind has definitely played a roll in curtailing some activites, but for the most part we have had so much fun with good friends, Jodie and Mike from Savannah and Bambi and Geoff from Alexis, and exploring the south west end on our own.

Right out from the first anchorage at Fare, we surfed and were humbled by the reef and wind. When we moved half way down the west coast, we had  some great snorkeling, surfing, exploring in the dinghy, playing horseshoes and bocce ball, and sharing drinks, food, and lots of laughs. David taught Geoff how to play horseshoes and proceeded to be beaten by the beginner, while Bambi, Jodie, and I watched. We then had a great time learning from Siki how to make basket/trays out of palm leaves. After Alexis and Savannah  moved onto Tahaa and Raiatea, Sidewinder  meandered her way to the southwest end of the island, and we anchored her in Avea Bay, where we still are this evening. 

Adventuring out around the south point in Worm (our trusty dinghy), we checked out the surf and then found some fantastic clear, colorful snorkeling. That evening we had a great dinner at the nearby restaurant and vowed to pay attention daily to this amazing life we are blessed to have. The following day, David tried to surf, but the many coral heads deterred him from staying out, while I again found crystal clear water to cruise. We explored the motu, looked for shells on the wonderfully soft sandy beach, and came home to our secure Sidewinder.

Touring around the entire island of Huahine on a motor scooter, we found several archealogical sites called maraes, ancient areas of political, social, and religious importance as well as some ancient fish traps which are still being used today. The island is lush and green, neat villages with exotic plants and flowers everywhere are nestled along the coast and in the valleys, and the people all smile with friendly ease. I am sure there are struggles and problems here too, but it just seems that the slowed down lifestyle really helps everyone feel the gentle flow of life. The people certainly seem to love their island and their own culture, welcoming us to enjoy it all as well.

Yesterday Robert and Kelita showed up on Freedom, and we all snorkeled and enjoyed being together last night. We leave tomorrow morning for Tahaa and will be in Raiatea by Wednesday. What a fantastic life we have. We miss you all and thank you for being with us once again.  Suzi

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