19 February: Rum day 8

It feels as though a marriage in difficulty has crystallised into a decision to part. The cooking, and budgets, for the four women will henceforth be separate from Scott (referred to as Simon in previous posts but what the heck – I don’t think anything I have written could give offence). We have £95 to last the week. Amélie says No to topping it up with our own cash. So we will ramp up the cheap carbs and do the best we can. Limiting fresh veg (it has been this which has blown our budget), and eating virtually no fruit. 😱 Funny old world. Luckily we are all decent cooks. And day 1 of the “starvation diet” is pretty fine, thanks to Leah’s stew and cornbread – a staple of Louisiana.

During my work shift I continue pressure washing around the bunkhouse. My thoughts wandering to future trips and when I can get away again. Alex gives welcome news that the work may all be finished by the end of Thursday. This would give a day to play on the island before I leave on Saturday. 

And I must admit I have been wondering about leaving even earlier than Saturday – what with the difficult group dynamic, food issues, my naggingly painful right arm, and a panoply of possible bike rides on the mainland. But I plan to sit out my restlessness. It has been such a humdinger of a journey to get here and I know when I am back in the south, this will seem like an incredible dream!