Winter hues

In the last month we’ve spent some time preparing the boat for the journey north, we had a visit from Kathryn ... and we’ve been braving the cold. I jest not. We’ve had some seriously cold nights. Doonas were required.

Matey was deserted for a couple of weeks while Captain headed south to sort out some 'important business'. Left alone, Matey and TC bonded and Captain returned to a new regime.

Some subdued hues of winter follow.

Young batfish(?) promptly thrown back

Smoke haze in Nara

'Rafted up' with Panacea

Johno from Panacea makes coffee with his special machine, revealing he is even more obsessed with it than the Matey

Almost beached at Windy Bay, Haslewood Island

The supermoon rises

Friend's rainforest garden 

Captain's birthday cake

Saying farewell, before our impending departure north

Oral system upgrade

May provided a brief diversion to the other side of the equator (but sadly, not by boat) as Captain’s teeth required an urgent upgrade. Word had it that Manila was the place to go, given the cost of involved dental work on home turf. Captain bravely spent many hours there in the dentist’s chair and now has numerous new chompers and an enhanced smile. Poor old Captain has hardly complained about the pain at all, and Matey is dazzled every time he flashes his pearly whites.

We couldn’t stray far from Manila but managed to see a few things there including having a quick peek at the old Spanish city, Intramuros. We also visited Tagaytay, beside the Taal Volcano, about 60 km from Manila. Getting there by bus was an experience in itself. Catholicism is alive and thriving!

Captain post upgrade (Version 2)

Taal Volcano views (smog-enhanced)

Jesus lives!

Oops. Matey opted for the diminutive version when transferring the following pics. Apologies.

 In Manila

Entrance to Intramuros