email from Heidi Aug19

The things that happen in the RMI are completely random and exciting. Last night myself and a couple of girls were enjouying the sunset at the MIR (Marshall Islands Resort) and we met a few fun people there. We got invitied to a mixer, hosted by the owner of the hotel, a birthday party for a very old, rich "yachter" as they call themselves, and we got invited to go tour a Chinese fishing boat. Since we all have such pressing social schedules here (ha ha ha!) we decided to head to the fishing boat. Today (Wed. Aug 19) we met the very nice (and might I add handsome) New Zealand helicopter pilot that works on the boat for our tour. We had some problems getting past the gate at the dock because the security guard there told Daren (our guide) that no women are allowed on the fishing boats (whcih is true to Marshallese culture because women are bad luck on boats.). After a failed bribe (beer) and a short call to customs (as if we were planning on leaving the country) the guard finally let is on to the dock. The fishing boat was a decent sized boat housing about 40 crew and it was quite interesting. We got to see the living quarters (about 8 to a room, but they did have air conditioning), the helicopter, the bridge, the mess hall, and the place where they store the fish. They were actually unloaded fish while we were on so we got to see a bit of that process....not a life for me. Anyway, what a random morning activity, but it sure was fun!The birthday party is tomorrow night, and anyone who is anyone (and white) will be there so you better belive we will make an appearance! The mixer is on Friday night and we will also be making an appearance at that. My departure from Majuro is still TBD, but I'm in no hurry what with all of my social events!Thanks again for all the mail. I love mail days! :)