I'm getting too relaxed now?

So much for writing up everyday as I'd planned. Chilling out far too much, obviously.

This is a quick catch-up before the laptop battery gives out on me.

Saturday evening we joined the Hash House Harriers on a run through the jungle. Apparently this is a long standing tradition in former colonies... read up about it here
Basically they are known as 'drinking clubs with a running problem' We ran for about 40 minutes, then got iced water poured over us and were forced to down ice cold beers! Having survived that, we all adjourned to a Thai restaurant for a meal. Pictures are here
it was all good natured fun, the meal was tasty and we had a chance to see a bit of the 'interior' I've never run through a rubber plantation before now!

My son asks how we're getting on with the language. Before we left France I found a really good website that teaches you Malaysian. Unfortunately I just didn't have the time to pursue it. it's just as well that everyone, but everyone, speaks very good english here, however I have learnt 'hello' (apa kabar) and thank you (terima kasih) so using those at every opportunity! Always gets a smile - not sure if that's because they are pleased I'm trying or they find my accent amusing!

Yesterday, Jon the skipper took us both across the island to the Cable Car ride. Now that was something special! I haven't uploaded the photographs yet, but will try to do it before we leave on friday... Yes! we have a date for departure! We'll be spending about a week sailing around the island and the nearby Thai islands to get familiar with the boat. 1st mate Drew has warned us he'll be working us hard!. He seems to be making good progress after his operation.

Today, Drew took us through the boat systems, above and below decks. I just hope he doesn't start asking questions, there is SO much to learn. Remains to be seen how much we've retained for future reference! He's said I can help when he services the engine - now that I am looking forward to. I guess it's just a case of listening and learning as we go along, hell, no-ones born with all this knowledge!

Interestingly, we haven't left port yet and we're finding that we're already thinking hard about what we want in our boat. Plenty of ventilation for a start!! It's like an oven down below and I find it hard to do anything. great excuse!!

Ok, battery is about to die so signing off now. Hope you're all well and coping in that cold weather!!

A week has flown by!

Hard to believe that we've been here exactly seven days. We're both looking less tired - the weather and the routine are working their cure. We haven't been thrown overboard yet so I guess the skipper is happy with our work!

Rene and Jon disappeared into town this morning to get a few provisions, whilst I popped round to see 'how the other half live' as Jane puts it! Nicoletta is a 12m ketch, roomy inside and well organised for two to live aboard. I just love seeing how different folks arrange their space...

Sounds as though we'll be setting off within a day or so for a little sailing around the islands to get Rene and I used to Rallentando then we'll return here for Drew (1st Mate) to see the Doc for a follow up and then, if all's well, the adventure begins (well actually, for us, it started a week ago, but you know what I mean!)
And now, I must catch some zedzzzzzzzzzzZZZZZZ
whilst I do that, you can check out a few photos here

Languishing in Langkawi!

Made the ferry to UK with 15 minutes to spare, saw the kids and made it in good time for the flight from Heathrow. Arrived at the boat about 1pm Saturday, What a difference from Normandie!! Hot and Humid here.
Early mornings we wash down the teak deck and clean the brightwork. By 11am the sun's too hot to do anything but head for the pool and the shower. Afternoons are spent catching up on emails, reading and recharging the batteries after those frantic days of preparation.
Looks like we'll be setting sail in a few days time....
Jon the skipper is an interesting guy - makes a hot green Thai chicken - i was looking for the fire extinguisher after tonights meal...
The island is lush and green with some interesting insects, beautiful tropical fish in the marina, monkeys by the roadside robbing the bins...

The 11th hour arrives!

We've made it to a hotel near Heathrow!!
I'm so tired I can't get excited yet. Flight takes off at 12 noon Friday and we'll be in Kuala Lumpur 7.30am Saturday.