Newish Player Questions

I just downloaded the game about 2 months ago, I have been enjoying it a lot and grinding everyday. But I have a few things I have questions about.

Why the hell am I swimming so slow I was on a quest and had to follow Chococat in the water and he was lightyards ahead of me, is the only way to have Hangyodon as companion or use a bunch of potions?

Also I really want Macaron to visit but I’m missing 4/5 event furniture required is there any other way to get it beside waiting a whole year until the event happens again?

Also wheat flour wonderland has been very annoying, is it even worth it to make all the wands and do all the challenges or even fix the lampposts? I’ve also gotten a couple daily quests to turn into a Flubby but I’ve never seen one and when I looked it up I haven’t even unlocked that mailbox yet so it’s frustrating they keep giving me that quest.

Anyways I think that’s all my concerns, I appreciate any help in advance. :)