It was Thanksgiving here but a day early for other American friends. We had some folks from England here that we met on our Aquapackers boat in Abel Tasman. Caroline and John are from outside London and are leaving Kiwi land today. They had so many funny stories to tell about their trip. Two days ago their 4 hour return trip from Milford Sound ended up taking 9 hours due to a fatal accident ahead. Their bus driver was forced to drive south towards the southern tip of NZ to get around. Luckily he was an amazing driver who kept everyone happy, well toliet accessible, supplied with fast food, and safe.
Beverly and Rick were also invited to our Thansksgiving bash. We met them on the ship and became close friends as they acquired our extra luggage we used to haul essentials for Alicia our young friend living in Hawaii. He is a retired Air Force officer and reminds us of Bruce Burris. There "home" is in Sisters Oregon. They are spending 5 months here and then catching the same ship back to Seattle in the spring. HThey are amazing having lived for 12 years in Turkey, 5 or so in France, Bankock. They purchased a sailboat in Turkey and sailed all around the area for the years there. Keep in mind that Beverly is in a wheel chair having lost the use of her legs in a plane crash in the Phillipines. Rick told the story about living in France near Toulouse and dropping by the government office. He happened to ask about income taxes and the clerk said "Oh yes you must fill out the tax forms each year. You must see the tax office next door. I will see if he is available". They had been living there several years and had only filled out US forms. Rick asked to use the restroom to think about what to do. While in the WC he decided to climb out the window which ended the problem. It was a strategic retreat.
We are hoping John and Caroline can visit us in Paris next year. Here are some photos of our evening...
John and Caroline
Rick and Beverly
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