Pleasure in this Palau Paradise

We are truly enjoying this anchorage and the sense of stationary security, along with the perks of fresh warm water showers, yummy food, laundry facilities close by, several well stocked supermarkets in town, a good internet connection, and having the time to stop for a while. It has been wonderful rendesvousing with our friends, Katie and Jim, on s/v Tenaya, whom we had not seen since New Zealand, and we still are having a great time with Jesse and Chari on Maaliwalas. The Rock Islands are waiting for us to explore, perhaps next week and there is a lot of incredible diving to pursue here, as we also try to figure out where we are going next and what the seasons will allow us to do and when.  Sidewinder needs to be pulled out of the water and a new bottom paint applied, but we are not sure if that will happen in the Philippines or Borneo. We have a lot of decisions to make at this time and we will know more next week.  Meanwhile, I will compile pitures and journey notes to briefly tell the story of our last few months, flying way too fast through the incredible islands of Vanuatu, the Solomons, and PNG, warmly welcomed by all those wonderful human beings we encountered. What fond memories we have again, and how very lucky we are  to be here, where we can take a breath and reflect on how grateful we are for the freedom we have to be out here so far away. There have been many times we both have longed to be back home, with all of you, and we know that you, too, are  pursuing your lives with family and friends in the most meaningful way.  We miss you all and send lots of love~