Leaving American Samoa…. and arriving in Kailua!

Leaving was super-hard. Mostly because my friends, and especially my neighbor Kelley were so amazing when I had to be gone unexpectedly for several months. They took care of my cats and dog, fixed up my yard, filled my fridge, and took care of me when I needed a shoulder. I’ll also really miss my outrigger paddling crew!

The good news is that EVERYONE has to fly through Honolulu at some point, so I’ll get to see them all again!

I really enjoyed my time on AS overall, though I won’t miss having to deal with the AS government. I feel great that the veterinary project got off to a good start, getting the clinic at Agriculture opened and staffed and getting into the villages for spay/neuter clinics. I feel even better that I was able to find an awesome replacement so the good work can continue. Thanks Dr Kristen!

So, back to Oahu. I was a nervous wreck that the ground crew in Pago wouldn’t get my cats onto the flight. But they arrived with no problem, just a bit of complaining (read howling). Tim took a job with US Fish & Wildlife based out the Honolulu office, though he’ll be on Palmyra Atoll about six months out of the year. And I can restart my veterinary house call and relief business.

We decided to live in Kailua, which neither of us has done before. I am still overwhelmed by choices: of stores, of things in the stores, of different routes to drive… But after one week, I feel like I’m getting settled. Everyone seems so friendly and helpful. I’ve found a good group to paddle with, a good yoga studio, and I only have to walk a few blocks to the lovely sandy Kailua Beach!

A few departing gifts!

A very cute and funny card from Ian and Relly

I feel like I’m camped out in a dorm, waiting for our container to arrive. The cooler coffee table is my favorite!

Sabrina has licked a sore on her back, so she is actually tolerating wearing a onesie! Probably the only one I will ever own, and it is on my cat. I warned her that she’d get an e-collar…