Sunset glow at the beach at the marina
Jon, Susan, Patty and Don at the No Name restaurant
Sunday, 3-21-10
Spring has sprung, and so have I ! Can someone please explain to me how you can gain 4 pounds in three days ?
Thurs. we went to No Name pizza for beer and the deluxe pizza – (Large enough to feed a small village) with Don and Patty. We returned to our boat for a night cap, when someone started banging on our door. I looked up, and saw Jim’s face, followed by Kathy. I screamed and danced a jig I was so excited. They are our neighbors in Palm Coast, and were supposed to be here with us on their boat, but have had lots of boat problems also, so – they got in the car a drove down to surprise us – mission accomplished !
Friday we took a ferry with Jim and Kathy from Marathon, to a little island called Pigeon Key. It was a fascinating glimpse back to history, as it was a base camp for all of the workers on Henry Flagler’s railroad that he extended all the way from northern Florida, down the east coast of Florida to Key West. It was interesting to learn about the methods they used to build the railroad bridges over the water, and all of the trials and tribulations they endured. We walked the couple of miles back to Marathon on the old railroad bridge, and went to lunch at Burdines.
Now, Burdines was a life changing experience for me last year. Last year, I ate their chicken florentine burger, which I have now been making at least once week, and for anyone and everyone who will try one. That one burger has expanded my limited culinary abilities to now been able to prepare ground chicken in about 100 ways – simply amazing – all because of one chicken florentine burger at Burdines.
Friday PM we had a marina pot luck, with about 30 people, followed by our ritual sundowners at sundown, then did a bit of evening chatting on Don and Patty’s boat.
Yesterday, we went to a flea market with Jim and Kathy at Pine Key. It was very similar to the market at Dennis on the Cape, in fact one of the vendors is at the Cape, and I ended up buying a jacket from her for, France of course ! The only downsides were I forgot my wallet ;) and Jon and Jim were done with the whole market before Kathy and I got through the first vendor. Now, just when I thought my shopping would feel complete, I eyed a pair of black topsiders. Luckily, I had just told Jon the week before I needed a pair of back topsiders, and that I had googled them and was unable to find a pair. Why was this lucky you may wonder – well, Jon was precluded from complaining that I did not need these shoes because I did – for France of course. By this time, Jon was all too happy to slide me some cash so he did not have to listen to me explain how each purchase I made was vital to the epicenter of my joy, to prepare for our trip to France. Another stroke of luck was Jim had bought a pedometer that morning, so he and Jon were happy to walk around to get their pedometers spinning, and Kathy and I were left to shop.
Following our excursion to the flea market, we returned to Marathon and ate lunch at Castaways. We then hurried back, showered and went to the Marathon marina for, now get ready, brace yourselves, a dance lesson ! Actually, it was for a charity, so we were able to coerce Jim and Jon into going. We learned the basics of several “salsa” type dances, and laughed so hard that it does not matter that all we took away was remembering the count – 123 pause, 123 pause, but not a single step!
We then went to Annette’s for dinner, then came home and fell into bed full, tired, and bit sore from forcing our hips to swing side to side at our dance lesson.
We had planned to go for a long today, but while at Annette’s our server told us they are having a cook off and taste of the keys at Key Colony today. It was grueling decision, walk – sweat, huff and puff, or go to Key Colony, and sit – eat - drink and be happy – we are going to Key Colony !
Now, back to my original quandary, how is it possible to gain four pounds in three days – OK, I may have a slight idea……….
Spring has sprung, and so have I ! Can someone please explain to me how you can gain 4 pounds in three days ?
Thurs. we went to No Name pizza for beer and the deluxe pizza – (Large enough to feed a small village) with Don and Patty. We returned to our boat for a night cap, when someone started banging on our door. I looked up, and saw Jim’s face, followed by Kathy. I screamed and danced a jig I was so excited. They are our neighbors in Palm Coast, and were supposed to be here with us on their boat, but have had lots of boat problems also, so – they got in the car a drove down to surprise us – mission accomplished !
Friday we took a ferry with Jim and Kathy from Marathon, to a little island called Pigeon Key. It was a fascinating glimpse back to history, as it was a base camp for all of the workers on Henry Flagler’s railroad that he extended all the way from northern Florida, down the east coast of Florida to Key West. It was interesting to learn about the methods they used to build the railroad bridges over the water, and all of the trials and tribulations they endured. We walked the couple of miles back to Marathon on the old railroad bridge, and went to lunch at Burdines.
Now, Burdines was a life changing experience for me last year. Last year, I ate their chicken florentine burger, which I have now been making at least once week, and for anyone and everyone who will try one. That one burger has expanded my limited culinary abilities to now been able to prepare ground chicken in about 100 ways – simply amazing – all because of one chicken florentine burger at Burdines.
Friday PM we had a marina pot luck, with about 30 people, followed by our ritual sundowners at sundown, then did a bit of evening chatting on Don and Patty’s boat.
Yesterday, we went to a flea market with Jim and Kathy at Pine Key. It was very similar to the market at Dennis on the Cape, in fact one of the vendors is at the Cape, and I ended up buying a jacket from her for, France of course ! The only downsides were I forgot my wallet ;) and Jon and Jim were done with the whole market before Kathy and I got through the first vendor. Now, just when I thought my shopping would feel complete, I eyed a pair of black topsiders. Luckily, I had just told Jon the week before I needed a pair of back topsiders, and that I had googled them and was unable to find a pair. Why was this lucky you may wonder – well, Jon was precluded from complaining that I did not need these shoes because I did – for France of course. By this time, Jon was all too happy to slide me some cash so he did not have to listen to me explain how each purchase I made was vital to the epicenter of my joy, to prepare for our trip to France. Another stroke of luck was Jim had bought a pedometer that morning, so he and Jon were happy to walk around to get their pedometers spinning, and Kathy and I were left to shop.
Following our excursion to the flea market, we returned to Marathon and ate lunch at Castaways. We then hurried back, showered and went to the Marathon marina for, now get ready, brace yourselves, a dance lesson ! Actually, it was for a charity, so we were able to coerce Jim and Jon into going. We learned the basics of several “salsa” type dances, and laughed so hard that it does not matter that all we took away was remembering the count – 123 pause, 123 pause, but not a single step!
We then went to Annette’s for dinner, then came home and fell into bed full, tired, and bit sore from forcing our hips to swing side to side at our dance lesson.
We had planned to go for a long today, but while at Annette’s our server told us they are having a cook off and taste of the keys at Key Colony today. It was grueling decision, walk – sweat, huff and puff, or go to Key Colony, and sit – eat - drink and be happy – we are going to Key Colony !
Now, back to my original quandary, how is it possible to gain four pounds in three days – OK, I may have a slight idea……….
Jim, Jon, Susan and Kathy on ferry to Pigeon Key
Cottage at Pigeon Key
Looking through the pedestrian bridge to the new bridge on the left, and the old railroad bridge on the right
Remains of the old railroad bridge
Susan and Kathy goofing around at Castaways
Jon, Susan, Kathy and Jim with his honey bun
Marina potluck gathering
Instructor at the dance lesson
kathy, Jim and Jon doing the "bird"
Upper half OK - just don't look at our feet
Monday, 3-22-2010
Yesterday was a food junkies fantasy at the Taste of the Keys, complete with a silent auction, arts and crafts, a fashion show, and live music. Last night was dinner at Hurricane’s, then back to watch the sunset. Unfortunately, some weather came in, and there was no visible sunset. We were however, provided a fabulous light show as the lightening danced on the water. We sat on the deck of the stern of our boat with Jim and Kathy and enjoyed nature’s show, then wrapped up our night with good byes to Jim and Kathy who were headed back to Palm Coast this morning. It is warm and balmy today, but gray with off and on brief rain, so today is dedicated to boat cleaning, laundry, and catching up on this site and emails. It is amazing that when you live in a space that is about the size of our kitchen at home, how much constant cleaning you have to do – I guess the basics of real life follow you wherever you go…..
Yesterday was a food junkies fantasy at the Taste of the Keys, complete with a silent auction, arts and crafts, a fashion show, and live music. Last night was dinner at Hurricane’s, then back to watch the sunset. Unfortunately, some weather came in, and there was no visible sunset. We were however, provided a fabulous light show as the lightening danced on the water. We sat on the deck of the stern of our boat with Jim and Kathy and enjoyed nature’s show, then wrapped up our night with good byes to Jim and Kathy who were headed back to Palm Coast this morning. It is warm and balmy today, but gray with off and on brief rain, so today is dedicated to boat cleaning, laundry, and catching up on this site and emails. It is amazing that when you live in a space that is about the size of our kitchen at home, how much constant cleaning you have to do – I guess the basics of real life follow you wherever you go…..
Jim, Kathy and Jon - Taste of the Keys
Fashion show finale
You never know who you will run into
Wednesday, 3-24-2010
Monday night we went to Frank’s for dinner – a first for us, but not our last time. Yesterday, Don and Jon fixed a leak in the air conditioning. I spent a good part of the morning copying crock pot recipes to my on line cookbook, from some cook pot recipe books Peggy loaned to me. This was a very constructive use of my time, however, with all of the recipes and cookbooks I have accumulated, if I cooked three meals a day, plus a dessert and appetizer, I would never try all the recipes I have.
Just in case you thought that all we do is eat, drink and socialize – you can now add gambling to our list of activities. We have been intrigued by a dice game that our boat neighbors Jim and Betty have been playing. Last night they invited us over, and told us to bring $3.00. We were joined by Bob and Sue. Can I tell you – I love this dice game ! Probably because I was the big winner – how big ? Well, I can not really divulge the total of my winnings because I do not want to alert the IRS, but when we both started with $3.00, you can probably imagine my new wealth. We then went to dinner at Hurricanes with Bob and Sue. We have been invited back to play tonight. At first I was flattered thinking they enjoyed our company, but then I realized they probably want to try to win their money back. Jim and Betty provided me with a Crown Royal bag for my winnings, I will have to be very vigilant tonight with my bag –
Today’s plan is to get the odometers spinning – we have been a bit lax. We plan to walk – to lunch of course, with Crew.
Monday night we went to Frank’s for dinner – a first for us, but not our last time. Yesterday, Don and Jon fixed a leak in the air conditioning. I spent a good part of the morning copying crock pot recipes to my on line cookbook, from some cook pot recipe books Peggy loaned to me. This was a very constructive use of my time, however, with all of the recipes and cookbooks I have accumulated, if I cooked three meals a day, plus a dessert and appetizer, I would never try all the recipes I have.
Just in case you thought that all we do is eat, drink and socialize – you can now add gambling to our list of activities. We have been intrigued by a dice game that our boat neighbors Jim and Betty have been playing. Last night they invited us over, and told us to bring $3.00. We were joined by Bob and Sue. Can I tell you – I love this dice game ! Probably because I was the big winner – how big ? Well, I can not really divulge the total of my winnings because I do not want to alert the IRS, but when we both started with $3.00, you can probably imagine my new wealth. We then went to dinner at Hurricanes with Bob and Sue. We have been invited back to play tonight. At first I was flattered thinking they enjoyed our company, but then I realized they probably want to try to win their money back. Jim and Betty provided me with a Crown Royal bag for my winnings, I will have to be very vigilant tonight with my bag –
Today’s plan is to get the odometers spinning – we have been a bit lax. We plan to walk – to lunch of course, with Crew.
Jon emptied handed and Susan grinning after her new amassed wealth
Bob watching Susan stuffing her winnings into her new Crown Royal bag
Friday, 3-26-2010
Yesterday Jon and I spent the day in Key West. We ate lunch at our favorite restaurant, the Half Shell. We first went to the Half Shell in 1996 when we vacationed in Key West. We went with a group of people we met, and - well, let’s just say it was a really fun night that went into the next morning……..This time just lunch, and a very quiet and relaxing meal. We got back in time for sundowners at sundown, then back to the boat for a homemade meal of roasted Chicken (store bought), on tortillas (store bought) with salsa (store bought) and guacamole (store bought), put on a –plate and served to Jon (homemade by Susan). Tonight we are going to the Marathon Yacht Club with our boat neighbors. You bring your own whatever you want to grill, then the Club provides the sides. I think because we are bringing the steak, this also counts for another home cooked meal.
Yesterday Jon and I spent the day in Key West. We ate lunch at our favorite restaurant, the Half Shell. We first went to the Half Shell in 1996 when we vacationed in Key West. We went with a group of people we met, and - well, let’s just say it was a really fun night that went into the next morning……..This time just lunch, and a very quiet and relaxing meal. We got back in time for sundowners at sundown, then back to the boat for a homemade meal of roasted Chicken (store bought), on tortillas (store bought) with salsa (store bought) and guacamole (store bought), put on a –plate and served to Jon (homemade by Susan). Tonight we are going to the Marathon Yacht Club with our boat neighbors. You bring your own whatever you want to grill, then the Club provides the sides. I think because we are bringing the steak, this also counts for another home cooked meal.
Key West waterfront
Duval Street - Key West
A pup and his pop - Key West
Just like it says - Southernmost point in the USA
Jon checking out a Key West car
I think the concept of a "Land Yacht" caught his eye
Saturday, 3-27-2010
Last night we went to Jim’s and Betty’s at 4:30 to play dice before going to dinner. There were ten of us all together. Jim and Betty who are from Texas, Bob and Sue who are from North Carolina, Jim and Babs from Maryland, and Craig and Pam from Boston. I sat down with my Crown Royal Bag almost bursting at the seams, and my belief that I was dice player extraordinare. Well, Craig from Boston won, are you reading this IRS – yes, that’s Craig from Boston practically emptied my entire little Crown Royal bag in one game. After feeling a bit defeated, we all went to the Yacht Club. I am sure this is how life was meant to be. The women all sat at the bar, while the men did the man thing, and gathered around the grill to cook for us. We had a great meal topped off with ice cream sundaes, followed by several hours of dancing. Texas Jim pointed out to me that the Marathon midnight is about 9:00 PM, and we were out well past Marathon midnight.
We have decided to leave tomorrow because the weather looks sketchy for next week. I got up and went to the grocery store to provision, then Jon returned the rental car. We brought both of our electric bikes down here, and I never used mine once. I have been so busy with trying to get my 10,000 steps each day – there was no time for leisure biking. We will spend the rest of the day getting the boat ready to leave, then another game of dice tonight, and dinner at Baracuda's.
Last night we went to Jim’s and Betty’s at 4:30 to play dice before going to dinner. There were ten of us all together. Jim and Betty who are from Texas, Bob and Sue who are from North Carolina, Jim and Babs from Maryland, and Craig and Pam from Boston. I sat down with my Crown Royal Bag almost bursting at the seams, and my belief that I was dice player extraordinare. Well, Craig from Boston won, are you reading this IRS – yes, that’s Craig from Boston practically emptied my entire little Crown Royal bag in one game. After feeling a bit defeated, we all went to the Yacht Club. I am sure this is how life was meant to be. The women all sat at the bar, while the men did the man thing, and gathered around the grill to cook for us. We had a great meal topped off with ice cream sundaes, followed by several hours of dancing. Texas Jim pointed out to me that the Marathon midnight is about 9:00 PM, and we were out well past Marathon midnight.
We have decided to leave tomorrow because the weather looks sketchy for next week. I got up and went to the grocery store to provision, then Jon returned the rental car. We brought both of our electric bikes down here, and I never used mine once. I have been so busy with trying to get my 10,000 steps each day – there was no time for leisure biking. We will spend the rest of the day getting the boat ready to leave, then another game of dice tonight, and dinner at Baracuda's.
Lunch at Hurricanes with Don and Patty
Even Crew gets to go to lunch at Hurricanes
Playing dice - Betty, Sue and Craig
Bob. Jim and Jon
Jon, Pam and Babs
Jim and Betty
Sunday, 3-28-2010
MM 1135
Anchorage Resort and Marina
A little exaggeration about spending all of yesterday getting the boat ready. We ended up going to lunch at Hurricanes with Don and Patty and Crew, then took a nap, then it was time for dice ! We played dice with same group as last night, and I will make this short and sweet, Texas Jim won and I only have 2 quarters left in my Crown Royal bag – a true tale of riches to rags. We debated going to dinner because we wanted to get to bed early and be well rested for our trip today, but then remembered our mantra of you only live once - so dinner out it was, and poor Jon was deprived of another homemade meal by me on the boat.
We went to Barradcudas, and after a glass of olives with Stoli, the impact of my demise as a great dice player, began to soften. We enjoyed a great meal, fabulous company, and made it back to the boat near Marathon midnight. Jon and I knew we should call it a night, but wanted to say good bye to Don and Patty, so off we went. By the time we said our good byes and then Jon and I settled down, it was continental US midnight, and I had the alarm set for 6:23 AM this morning.
We settled in to a good sleep, but I awoke about 4:00 AM with the dreaded thought, did I bring the camera home from the restaurant ? As you may recall, we are already down one camera, and my dread became realized when I searched, but to no avail and did not find the camera. I had no intention of worrying alone, so I did what any good wife would do, and woke Jon up to share my plight with him. We spent the next hour ruminating over what we should do, when Jon asked me if I had actually looked for the camera. I did not dignify such a ridiculous question with a response, but decided to do another quick search and oops – there it was – the camera ! Well now, it was 5:00 AM, and Jon was actually kind of acting irritated that I woke him up about the camera. I reminded him that if I wanted to worry about things alone, I would not have gotten married. Neither of us actually got back to sleep, so as soon as it got light enough, around 7:00 AM, with Texas Jim and Don’s assistance, we bid Marathon farewell, and hit the dusty highway – or- the watery water – that does sound stupid.
We had a rough day on the water – very windy, choppy and lots of rude boaters with big wakes – aarrgghhhh……. We arrived at the Anchorage marina in Key Largo which has a seawall directly on the intracoastal so we literally just pulled over and tied up. We were busy getting things organized, and Crew was not happy being stranded on the bridge. As I went to look for the LL Bean bag to tie him up in so we could lower him, I heard a big thud, and then Crew came bounding into the boat. We were in shock, he literally jumped through the hatch opening, down about 8 feet to the stern deck. We could not believe he did without A) falling off of the boat and B) breaking his leg ! Crew was not happy to be leaving all his friends in Marathon at the Marina, and also jumped off the boat this morning when Don came over just as we were getting ready to back the boat out of the slip.
When I checked in at the office here, I mentioned I was hot and ready for a cocktail, and the receptionist looked at her watch and declared it was definitely cocktail thirty – now I like that.
We really had an excellent time this year in Marathon. We made some new friends and met a lot of nice people. If we can get our act together for next year, we discussed going back to Marathon in March, then crossing over to the Bahamas with Don and Patty. Lots to do between now and then so time will tiell on that adventure!
There is a band playing across the intracoastal at Gilberts which is only a stones throw away, and a band is playing at our resort. Lots of boats and activity. Plan for now, Bloody Mary, a swim, shower and then go check out the band scene.
They are predicting bad weather for tomorrow. If it is bad we are going to stay here – otherwise hope to make it to Ft. Lauderdale.
MM 1135
Anchorage Resort and Marina
A little exaggeration about spending all of yesterday getting the boat ready. We ended up going to lunch at Hurricanes with Don and Patty and Crew, then took a nap, then it was time for dice ! We played dice with same group as last night, and I will make this short and sweet, Texas Jim won and I only have 2 quarters left in my Crown Royal bag – a true tale of riches to rags. We debated going to dinner because we wanted to get to bed early and be well rested for our trip today, but then remembered our mantra of you only live once - so dinner out it was, and poor Jon was deprived of another homemade meal by me on the boat.
We went to Barradcudas, and after a glass of olives with Stoli, the impact of my demise as a great dice player, began to soften. We enjoyed a great meal, fabulous company, and made it back to the boat near Marathon midnight. Jon and I knew we should call it a night, but wanted to say good bye to Don and Patty, so off we went. By the time we said our good byes and then Jon and I settled down, it was continental US midnight, and I had the alarm set for 6:23 AM this morning.
We settled in to a good sleep, but I awoke about 4:00 AM with the dreaded thought, did I bring the camera home from the restaurant ? As you may recall, we are already down one camera, and my dread became realized when I searched, but to no avail and did not find the camera. I had no intention of worrying alone, so I did what any good wife would do, and woke Jon up to share my plight with him. We spent the next hour ruminating over what we should do, when Jon asked me if I had actually looked for the camera. I did not dignify such a ridiculous question with a response, but decided to do another quick search and oops – there it was – the camera ! Well now, it was 5:00 AM, and Jon was actually kind of acting irritated that I woke him up about the camera. I reminded him that if I wanted to worry about things alone, I would not have gotten married. Neither of us actually got back to sleep, so as soon as it got light enough, around 7:00 AM, with Texas Jim and Don’s assistance, we bid Marathon farewell, and hit the dusty highway – or- the watery water – that does sound stupid.
We had a rough day on the water – very windy, choppy and lots of rude boaters with big wakes – aarrgghhhh……. We arrived at the Anchorage marina in Key Largo which has a seawall directly on the intracoastal so we literally just pulled over and tied up. We were busy getting things organized, and Crew was not happy being stranded on the bridge. As I went to look for the LL Bean bag to tie him up in so we could lower him, I heard a big thud, and then Crew came bounding into the boat. We were in shock, he literally jumped through the hatch opening, down about 8 feet to the stern deck. We could not believe he did without A) falling off of the boat and B) breaking his leg ! Crew was not happy to be leaving all his friends in Marathon at the Marina, and also jumped off the boat this morning when Don came over just as we were getting ready to back the boat out of the slip.
When I checked in at the office here, I mentioned I was hot and ready for a cocktail, and the receptionist looked at her watch and declared it was definitely cocktail thirty – now I like that.
We really had an excellent time this year in Marathon. We made some new friends and met a lot of nice people. If we can get our act together for next year, we discussed going back to Marathon in March, then crossing over to the Bahamas with Don and Patty. Lots to do between now and then so time will tiell on that adventure!
There is a band playing across the intracoastal at Gilberts which is only a stones throw away, and a band is playing at our resort. Lots of boats and activity. Plan for now, Bloody Mary, a swim, shower and then go check out the band scene.
They are predicting bad weather for tomorrow. If it is bad we are going to stay here – otherwise hope to make it to Ft. Lauderdale.
Same church as last year, but took pic this year
Monday 3-29-2010
Still at the Anchorage Marina
Just when we thought we were ready to relax yesterday – Crew sounded the alert, and we looked up to see pirate ship on a direct course to us with a pirate flag (The flag is flown to frighten pirates' victims into surrendering without a fight, since it conveys the message that the attackers are outlaws who do not consider themselves bound by the usual rules of engagement—and might, therefore, slaughter those they defeat. )blowing in the wind. My first thought to defend ourselves was to man our cannon – but oh, that ‘s right – we don’t have our cannon. Why do we not have our cannon on board ? Well, because last year we were politely notified by a police officer visit to our house in Palm Coast that an anonymous neighbor did not like us shooting our cannon off, so we left the cannon in Cape Cod with our other cannon, (at my insistence knowing that Jon would shoot the cannon again with our devilish neighbors – and yes – you know how you are, egging him on) leaving us defenseless. Luckily, Crew feeling extremely fearless after his leap down from the bridge earlier in the afternoon, barked at the pirate ship, so they changed course and ran in response and all was well.
After some celebratory libations to celebrate our narrow escape, we went to Pontunes to enjoy some music and pub grub.
It rained off and on during the night, and the wind was blowing a steady 20 this morning, so we decided to stay put. The only danger we encountered today were increasing winds to a steady 30, with rains, and tornado warning just north of here. Jon tried to solve the puzzle of why the new battery system is not holding it's charge- yes the new system that was put in when we got stuck in West Palm on our way down. It actually was a relaxing day - not allot of choice there...........
The only part of being on the boat that is never pleasant, and at times darn right difficult, is getting Crew off and on the boat. For example here, we are being blown off of the dock, making pulling the boat in a Herculian task, plus we have about a foot gap from the boat to the dock because of the large pilings. It is always a leap of faith in which we hold our breath, when Crew jumps off and on the boat. Back to Pontunes for dinner tonight, and hopefully these winds will lie down so we can get to Ft. Lauderdale tomorrow !
Still at the Anchorage Marina
Just when we thought we were ready to relax yesterday – Crew sounded the alert, and we looked up to see pirate ship on a direct course to us with a pirate flag (The flag is flown to frighten pirates' victims into surrendering without a fight, since it conveys the message that the attackers are outlaws who do not consider themselves bound by the usual rules of engagement—and might, therefore, slaughter those they defeat. )blowing in the wind. My first thought to defend ourselves was to man our cannon – but oh, that ‘s right – we don’t have our cannon. Why do we not have our cannon on board ? Well, because last year we were politely notified by a police officer visit to our house in Palm Coast that an anonymous neighbor did not like us shooting our cannon off, so we left the cannon in Cape Cod with our other cannon, (at my insistence knowing that Jon would shoot the cannon again with our devilish neighbors – and yes – you know how you are, egging him on) leaving us defenseless. Luckily, Crew feeling extremely fearless after his leap down from the bridge earlier in the afternoon, barked at the pirate ship, so they changed course and ran in response and all was well.
After some celebratory libations to celebrate our narrow escape, we went to Pontunes to enjoy some music and pub grub.
It rained off and on during the night, and the wind was blowing a steady 20 this morning, so we decided to stay put. The only danger we encountered today were increasing winds to a steady 30, with rains, and tornado warning just north of here. Jon tried to solve the puzzle of why the new battery system is not holding it's charge- yes the new system that was put in when we got stuck in West Palm on our way down. It actually was a relaxing day - not allot of choice there...........
The only part of being on the boat that is never pleasant, and at times darn right difficult, is getting Crew off and on the boat. For example here, we are being blown off of the dock, making pulling the boat in a Herculian task, plus we have about a foot gap from the boat to the dock because of the large pilings. It is always a leap of faith in which we hold our breath, when Crew jumps off and on the boat. Back to Pontunes for dinner tonight, and hopefully these winds will lie down so we can get to Ft. Lauderdale tomorrow !
The approaching pirate ship
Note the pirate flag
In response to Crew's fierce barking, the pirate ship changed couse and turned tail
Celebrating our narrow miss with the pirates
Once dark, we snuck up to the ship for pics
The Captain and his fearless "Crew"
Wed. 3-31-2010
MM 1016 Lake Park Marina
Memo to self, do not, I repeat, DO NOT, travel during Easter week school break – arrgghhh…I think every dad has decided this year, to take their kids out boating for the first time, including the dads first time – we were continuously weaving and dodging small arks full of children. We left the Keys, with predicted winds of 10, try 25 with gusts to 30. We arrived in Ft. Lauderdale, and decided to stay at Bahia Mar marina so we could fuel up, and get assistance with docking. So much for the best laid plans – the fuel dock had two large boats on it staying the night – so no fuel, and the dockhand never materialized as we approached our slip. We cruised down to our slip, followed closely behind by a boat that was too close to us in a swift current. We made our approach, ka – bang ka boom, into the dock and suffered a large black swipe down the side of the boat. During his period the lady on the boat next to us – was yelling out “Did you call a dock hand – no one came for us, we almost did not get in, we crashed into the dock etc……. Blah blah blah” all while we were trying to get in, and all I could think of was, “if it was so terrible, then come help us you bird !” So once again I had to jump off of the boat, rope us in, pray Crew did not jump down of the bridge, and listen to the incessant chatter of the women next to us. Once we were all secure- guess who came? The dockhand ! When I pointed out our new black imprint on our side, and explained the trouble we had docking – his comment was, “in a situation like that, it is always best to re approach.” My first thought was to respond – something like “gee really – I never would have thought of that,” then I thought about explaining about the current, the boat right on our stern, and the narrow space between the piers, but I just sweetly smiled, and responded , “Oh thank you for that advice, I will keep that in mind for next time.” (My mom’s voice was in my head telling me you get more bees with honey that you do vinegar!) We settled in, did boat stuff, then went out for dinner. Another note to self, just because the restaurant has a special that a bottle of wine is half price, does not mean you have to buy two bottles. Today as I indicated, was a rough day of dodging, and weaving all of the thoughtful boats wakes. We are happy to be snugged in tonight, revitalizing ourselves for tomorrow’s adventures.
MM 1016 Lake Park Marina
Memo to self, do not, I repeat, DO NOT, travel during Easter week school break – arrgghhh…I think every dad has decided this year, to take their kids out boating for the first time, including the dads first time – we were continuously weaving and dodging small arks full of children. We left the Keys, with predicted winds of 10, try 25 with gusts to 30. We arrived in Ft. Lauderdale, and decided to stay at Bahia Mar marina so we could fuel up, and get assistance with docking. So much for the best laid plans – the fuel dock had two large boats on it staying the night – so no fuel, and the dockhand never materialized as we approached our slip. We cruised down to our slip, followed closely behind by a boat that was too close to us in a swift current. We made our approach, ka – bang ka boom, into the dock and suffered a large black swipe down the side of the boat. During his period the lady on the boat next to us – was yelling out “Did you call a dock hand – no one came for us, we almost did not get in, we crashed into the dock etc……. Blah blah blah” all while we were trying to get in, and all I could think of was, “if it was so terrible, then come help us you bird !” So once again I had to jump off of the boat, rope us in, pray Crew did not jump down of the bridge, and listen to the incessant chatter of the women next to us. Once we were all secure- guess who came? The dockhand ! When I pointed out our new black imprint on our side, and explained the trouble we had docking – his comment was, “in a situation like that, it is always best to re approach.” My first thought was to respond – something like “gee really – I never would have thought of that,” then I thought about explaining about the current, the boat right on our stern, and the narrow space between the piers, but I just sweetly smiled, and responded , “Oh thank you for that advice, I will keep that in mind for next time.” (My mom’s voice was in my head telling me you get more bees with honey that you do vinegar!) We settled in, did boat stuff, then went out for dinner. Another note to self, just because the restaurant has a special that a bottle of wine is half price, does not mean you have to buy two bottles. Today as I indicated, was a rough day of dodging, and weaving all of the thoughtful boats wakes. We are happy to be snugged in tonight, revitalizing ourselves for tomorrow’s adventures.
The first of many bridge - entering Miami
Crew heard bridges and became worried about his stress colitis
Ft. Lauderdale beach right behind those trees
Sunset Bahia Mar marina
Full moon rising Bahia Mar marina
Full moon setting - leaving Fort Lauderdale
Captain Jon doing his Captain thing
Crew being sweet
Jon practicing the rumba with Jon
Thurs. 4-1-10 Happy April Fool’s day !
MM 948 – Loggerhead Marina - Vera Beach
I have a theory, that once something bad happens, the rest of the day goes great. Luckily, the bad happened early, but unluckily, at my expense. Now I swear, I am not clumsy but………. After we left our marina this AM, I was putting fenders and lines way, when the side sliding door got stuck, a big and heavy sliding door. I am not sure how I did this, I could not do it again on a bet, but somehow when I yanked the door, it came up and off of the slider and landed on my right big toe. Fortunately, I had topsiders on and was not barefoot for once, so I did not amputate my toe. I have sustained the weirdest swelling and bruising – bruised on top of my toe where the door landed, but the pressure forced a big bulge out the bottom/backside of my toe, along with a big bruise. It doesn’t hurt unless I move, smile, read, drink, think etc…… I would not normally post pictures of my injuries – because really – who does care, but after the last request I received for pictures of my chin, I decided to go ahead, and take pictures of my toe. Have you ever tried to take a picture of the bottom of your toe ? This is not easy, and I pray no one saw me doing it or they would think I was ready to be committed. Besides not begin able to easily walk at this point, and the possibility of mistaking my toe for a black and purple Easter egg, all is well. We did have a very relaxing day today on the water. The passage through Miami up to West Palm is not fun because between the narrow intracoastal which results in all wakes banging again and again off of the edges, the boat wakes and the bridges – it is not fun. We are now to the pleasant part of the trip thank goodness. I am cooking again tonight – yep, chicken tacos – Sundance specialty. I will consume some liquid pain killers, then up to do it all again tomorrow. If all is well – which is 50/50 chance with us, we will go to Cocoa beach tomorrow, and then New Smyrna Sat., and home to Palm Coast on Sunday for a late Easter dinner !
MM 948 – Loggerhead Marina - Vera Beach
I have a theory, that once something bad happens, the rest of the day goes great. Luckily, the bad happened early, but unluckily, at my expense. Now I swear, I am not clumsy but………. After we left our marina this AM, I was putting fenders and lines way, when the side sliding door got stuck, a big and heavy sliding door. I am not sure how I did this, I could not do it again on a bet, but somehow when I yanked the door, it came up and off of the slider and landed on my right big toe. Fortunately, I had topsiders on and was not barefoot for once, so I did not amputate my toe. I have sustained the weirdest swelling and bruising – bruised on top of my toe where the door landed, but the pressure forced a big bulge out the bottom/backside of my toe, along with a big bruise. It doesn’t hurt unless I move, smile, read, drink, think etc…… I would not normally post pictures of my injuries – because really – who does care, but after the last request I received for pictures of my chin, I decided to go ahead, and take pictures of my toe. Have you ever tried to take a picture of the bottom of your toe ? This is not easy, and I pray no one saw me doing it or they would think I was ready to be committed. Besides not begin able to easily walk at this point, and the possibility of mistaking my toe for a black and purple Easter egg, all is well. We did have a very relaxing day today on the water. The passage through Miami up to West Palm is not fun because between the narrow intracoastal which results in all wakes banging again and again off of the edges, the boat wakes and the bridges – it is not fun. We are now to the pleasant part of the trip thank goodness. I am cooking again tonight – yep, chicken tacos – Sundance specialty. I will consume some liquid pain killers, then up to do it all again tomorrow. If all is well – which is 50/50 chance with us, we will go to Cocoa beach tomorrow, and then New Smyrna Sat., and home to Palm Coast on Sunday for a late Easter dinner !
Early start at sunrise this AM
Looking for Tiger Woods at his golf course - Jupiter Island
Just because I liked the reflection on the water
Sitting on the deck of the bridge, watching the tide roll away....
One of the many tug and barges
