Our last morning was marred by an unexpected shut off of the water in the area. I arose early to do a last bakery run to bring croissants back to NYC and I ran across the street to check out the new shopping center – just a run through. Since I was out and back early, I was lucky enough to have showered before the water shut down. I filled up with gas at the station in Lorient – beware, there is an absurd charge on my credit card – I am waiting to see if it’s a “hold” or fraud, status pending. But annoying to see. The airport was a zoo, all of the flights were held up, so there were long lines of people, and then when you got to the front, they didn’t let you check in if you weren’t on the next flight, and sent you to wait again (had I known, I would have crossed the street for more shopping or something.) But all of that was ok, because our Jet Blue flight was also delayed several hours. Travel to and from the island was most challenging, this trip. Especially since it was such a brief trip (note to self: Wednesday to Monday is TOO SHORT!)
I brought home enough croissants to hold on to my St Barth high, but I gained six pounds on this very short trip. Other than the croissants, I need to show some self discipline this week to reverse that!
My love for the island and the wonderful people (including my villa owner) remains strong. I was happy to catch up with old friends, and I missed one, sadly. Our group of 6 mostly got along well, some irritations, some “moods,” as someone said: “And not a single person murdered in their sleep, drowned in the pool or kicked out of the car and told to walk home!!! (But it was close.)” In truth, we had a lovely time together, lots of smiles – which is tough for 6 individuals all used to running on their own schedules! In such a short trip, we had no “misses” on the restaurants, although next time, I would skip Tamarin for another option (I’m sorry I didn’t get to L’Esprit, for one!). I walked through Le Coloniale, it looked nice, but I was still saddened by the change. Mapo is open all day, I bet it’s great for lunch too. Too many restaurants, too little time! And of course, I only got to Saline and Lorient, but I’m ok with that too.
I will frame my new artwork and hang it with the “Saline” sign from a previous trip. It’s good juju, until I can return to my beautiful little island. I already can’t wait!
