January 16, 2009

Change of Plans
We’re coming home! After weeks of watching Ted’s back deteriorate we’ve decided that he’s getting too decrepit for this life, so we’ll be sailing back to NZ in May. We’ll be sailing into Opua and will go into the marina for the winter so we can be tied to the dock, hooked up to power and have access to nice, hot showers. That will give us time to decide what to do next. We have visions of maybe sailing around the Bay of Islands in the summer. You know, we’ve never even been to Russell!
I’m sure I can find work in the Opua area. I’m not going to be very particular. Even Kawakawa hospital would suit. I must admit I’m looking forward to some nice cool weather. And hills, and rolling green pasture. Now that we’ve made the decision we feel a big weight has been lifted off us. We’ve told many of our friends and some have said they kind of expected it.
Ted is still unable to be up for more than an hour or two at a time. He has cut back on his obligations and his only job for the next couple months is to get healthy enough for the passage. Actually, the passage itself shouldn’t be too bad, as he won’t be standing for long periods. As long as he can sit or lie down he does okay. He still has a lot of strength in his arms and upper body, so short bursts of activity are all right. Lifting doesn’t seem to bother him. It is just the compression of being on his feet that is the problem. He can’t walk any distance at all. When we’re back home we can get hooked up with medical care again and see if there is any help for the old man. Karen