This is the most unbelievable place ever. I know - you think I'm going to talk about the ocean life, the corals, the amazingly clear blue warm waters, the perfect stand up paddling conditions, and the totally unique picturesque Rock Islands. But NOOOOOOOO. That's not it at all.

For a few days about a month ago we were teaching Fuanes' wife Lani to drive. We've donated a chunk  of our boards, paddles and other gear to them to start their own business here: Stand Up Paddle Tours. When we leave, we plan to give them our car as well, so they can pick up their paddling guests. For that to be useful, Lanie needed to become a licensed driver, something she's never really needed to do.

Our friend Debbie arrived a day ago and she has never snorkeled or been on a stand up paddle.  Well, here is proof that Debbie enjoyed her day paddling today...

Debbie was standing up paddling away today, the weather was great - a few clouds and not too hot!  Snorkeling was an adventure as well...  Check her blog for more in the days to come...

Ok, so my mom came to visit and the only thing she wanted to do was see a crocodile.  Well, ok, that may not be entirely true, but this croc sure did want to see her. :)

Here is where she sat so as not to get in the way of the food the croc was trying to eat.

So, we've just returned from Thailand and the Philippines.  Wow, what a trip!  Since we are now back in Palau and still on dialup, I can only upload a few pictures, but the videos of the whale sharks are amazing!  Sorry I can't share them with you. :)

These gentle giants live at an Elephant Conservation Sanctuary.  They have all been rescued and live happily now a bit north of Chiang Mai.  Here they are at bathtime...