Departure time, from Aitutaki back to Rarotonga:
It was the shortest flight ever, yet I thought my bladder would burst mid-air. I'd slammed down the rest of my water then had a cup of coffee by takeoff! What was I thinking? The flight attendant got the pilot's permission for me to potty even though we'd begun descent. It was the greatest relief I've ever experienced. Awww! TMI? Sorry, but it explains why I took a pic with a flight attendant - she saved me from embarrassment and a 'clean up' on seat 12 A:)
Landed in Rarotonga and got scooped up by friendly, familiar faces - Cassandra and Terry (from Monterey, CA). We then went on our very own island tour after a delicious lunch of fresh grilled tuna sandwiches (I don't think I can ever eat it from the can again). Terry got a turtle tattoo, we met Sara (a local school teacher), singing sisters Leilani and Kura, more wonderful locals, and spent the rest of time enjoying music, meals, ambiance, and locals. We all treasured the trip and our time together.
Fortunately, I saw Ida and Branko the following week during their long layover in L A, before returning to Vancouver. I'll reconnect with Cassandra and Terry in July at the Gilroy Garlic Festival!!!
Pics: Aitutaki airport, accommodations, Angel flight attendant, Cassandra and Terry/tattoo, their beach cottage/view, Sara and cousin, dude with pet dog and pig, vocalists/sisters: Leilani and Kura, Mr.Hopeless (bus driver), and other random shots.