April 8, 2017

Miles traveled:  13

Total miles traveled:  3289

Several people have asked me what an average day is like on the Namaste so I have randomly selected today, Saturday April 8^th to share perhaps more detail than you might want.

7:30 a.m.

Awoke to the rising sun, brisk temps and bright skies – no alarm!  We make the coffee the night before so all I had to do was light the propane stove and wait the 15 minutes it takes to perk – that’s right we use our new $22 stove-top percolator because an electric drip pot takes up too much real estate and is useless when at anchor.  Jim walked Sammy and paid the rent (way over budget) and upon his return we checked our three weather sources deciding this was the day to leave South Seas Resort on Captiva Island.  Jim also made-up the v-berth consisting of a thick v-shaped mattress pad, two sleeping bags, two sheets and two pillows.  Mostly we sleep on top with just the sheets but last night crawling into the bags felt beyond cozy. I cleaned up the cabin and made myself presentable. We did our morning exercise routine of balance, stretches, bands, and steps but didn’t eat breakfast, always a mistake. but neither of us is hungry on travel mornings. Biggby coffee is best.

Cleaned up and ready for the day!

8:30 a.m.

Last night Captain Jim created the route on his iPad using an app called Garmin Blue Charts with the Active Captain overlay.  We decided on a short trip of 13 miles north to Pelican Bay across from Charlotte Harbor and at the tip of Cayo Costa Island where a Florida State Park of the same name is located.  The Waterway Guide describes it as the best anchorage in southwest Florida and not to be missed.  We went over the trip plan and then proceeded to get the Namaste ready to depart.  This includes: start the engine, turn on and check all instruments, take off the water hose and electric cord, close hatches, run bilge pump, check oil and fuel, and stow anything that might move about during rough water.  I email Curt with a float plan of exactly where we are, where we are headed and our ETA and then our actual arrival time and place.  This serves two purposes, hopefully he will know if we do not arrive plus at the end of the trip we will have an accurate record of all travel days, times and places.  Finally, we create a cast-off plan which was slightly more complicated today due to the wind direction – blowing us against the dock.  We both knew exactly which lines to release when, where the dinghy should be, who would be at the helm (Jim) and who would be working the lines (me).  It worked perfectly without dockside assistance and we cast off at  9:15 a.m. saying good-by and thank you for the wonderful stay on Captiva.

9:30 a.m.

The route required us to follow a narrow and winding channel back out to the ICWW (Inter-coastal Water Way) where we met a beautiful ketch almost identical to the Namaste, named “Lark”.  There aren’t too many of these around, particularly down here.  Both boats put up their yankee and mizzen sails and followed the channel to Cabbage Key where the course turned us directly North into the wind.  You cannot sail (nor should you pee) into the wind so down came the sails and with the motor running we ultimately passed and waved to Lark.   Delightfully, on this waterway there is always something to look at up ahead or coming from behind.  When it is a short travel day Jim does most of the helm work with me taking pictures, managing Sammy, checking Facebook, putting on sunscreen, getting more coffee.  Tough work but somebody has to do it.

Sailing with Lark

12:00

We knew that getting into Pelican Bay would be tricky and were hoping for some local knowledge, ie., follow a local boat. It worked as we followed a larger boat within 75 feet of the shore arriving in the middle of the Bay where we easily anchored with me at the helm and Jim feeding out anchor chain.  The hard part about anchoring is deciding exactly where to drop the hook.  You must be far enough from all other boats and shallow water that your boat can swing 360 degrees and not hit anything or go aground.   We are in about 7.7’ of water with two feet variance of tide over 12 hours.  This requires 50’ of scope (30’ of heavy chain and 20’ of ¾” anchor line) as the winds are predicted to increase tonight.  For the next couple hours we stayed aboard checking and recording the GPS position every 15 minutes to make certain that the anchor is holding.  It was! Now starving, I made lunch of sandwiches and fruit quickly opening and closing the refrigerator as it is a huge drain on the batteries so is turned off unless the motor is running.

Anchorage is on the left and beach on the right

2:00 p.m.

All seemed well with the anchor so we three piled into the dinghy for some exploration.   Our first stop was the State Park dock on the far west side of the bay.  The only way to access this beautiful park is by boat and we saw at least 3 ferry/tour type boats arrive with passengers mostly boy and girl scout troops with mounds of camping equipment.  Upon arrival we found not only a good dinghy and small boat dock but also a shelter, camp store, restrooms, trails, small cabins and large tenting area – everything you would expect at a state park.  With a $2 fee even a small tram was available to transport visitors to the Gulf beach on the other side of the island (1.5 miles).  It was a dusty road so we took the ride only to find out that dogs were not allowed on the beach.  We “trammed” it back to the store for an ice cream bar and set out in the dinghy for the Love Tunnel to Manatee Hole.  It was a beautiful covered channel that lead to a small lake where indeed we came very close to a very large snorting manatee.  Next we toured the anchorage looking at boats and boat names.  There was one other looping boat from Maryland (identifiable by our mutual burgee/flag) but they were not aboard, probably at the park.  My guess is that by sunset there were 50+ boats of every description anchored here along with us – pretty nice neighborhood.

Cayo Costa State Park Dock

Boy Scouts gathering to set up camp.

Manatee Hole4:00 p.m.

4:00

We spent the remainder of the afternoon reading (Jim has seriously out-read me), napping (he leads in this department as well) and catching up on email (me J) as there is surprisingly good phone reception here given its ruralness (is that a word?).  Then back out in the dinghy to a nearby dog friendly beach where Sammy ran, slowing only to sniff and roll in the good beach smells.  A cold beer with some cheese and crackers rounded out the afternoon.

7:00 p.m.

Dinner consisted of leftover chicken parmesan, cold veggies, and a cookie which we ate while watching the sun set and the almost-full-moon rise.  This is one of the great rewards for anchoring out.

Gally

Sunset dinner

Our day ended with a game of Euchre, dishes, making the coffee for tomorrow morning and setting up the v-berth for sleeping once again.  Jim then read as I am capturing this glorious day.  It has turned out well but when I committed to the idea this morning, who knew it would be a perfect day?  That is part of the fun.

10:00 p.m.

Well, time for bed. We will set the alarm to get up every hour and check our position on the GPS to make certain we stay in place!  Due to the 20-25 mph winds we will hear weird noises and bounce tonight but dragging anchor into another boat or going aground would make for a terrible night.  The numbers are exactly what they were an hour ago so all is well for now.  As I turn out the lights and look out over the stern, I see 50+ anchor lights twinkling amongst the stars and a bright almost-full-moon.

Sammy Sayz:  Don’t bother me I’ve been sleeping for over an hour.  It has been a tough day of guarding and smelling, eating and sleeping.

Quote of the Day:  “There is nothing – absolutely nothing—half so much worth doing as messing about in boats.”  Kenneth Grahame, The Wind in the Willows

Good Boat Name:  “Cinderella and Dumpy” on a beautiful boat sailed by  a gorgeous young couple.  I’m pretty sure there is more to that story.

Bad Boat Name:  Toad (yes, it was a less than attractive boat)

Happy Birthday to:  Lisa and Andrea today!!!

March 30 – April 7, 2017

Miles traveled:  0

Total miles traveled:  3275

Upon arrival at the South Seas Resort on Captiva Island and awaiting Mike, Veta, Klava, Oscar and Ashleigh, we knew that once again we had to leave the marina over the weekend due to full slips reserved for two different boating rendezvous.  This meant that we would have to move the 15 or so miles back south to the Sanibel Marina in what turned out to be some pretty heavy weather plus we plan to continue our travels north after the family visit UGH!   As we get better at figuring out marina culture, we were hoping for cancellations due to the weather.  We procrastinated on our forced departure and sure enough folks were cancelling and the harbor master was more than happy to have our money for the full week!  Today we remain on Captiva waiting, once again, for the weather to settle.  Last night Sammy didn’t sleep a wink due to 20-25 mph winds with the doors rattling, the lines squeaking, the rigging whining and the dinghy bumping.  Having seen pictures of the snow in Michigan today and given the amenities at one of the nicest resorts on one of the nicest beaches in FL, I am truly not complaining.

Captiva Island Beach Beauties

The family visit exceeded expectations in one of the most beautiful places anywhere:  rest and relaxation for us with daily work-outs for Mike; catching-up with long morning conversations over coffee on the deck; swimming in 5 different pools; walking the beach selecting shells and swimming in the big waves; spectacular sunsets; delicious meals in funky and elegant places (The Mucky Duck, R.C. Otter’s, The Bubble Room, and Harborside Bar and Grille sitting at the same table as four years ago when were just getting to know Veta and Klava); girl-time of shopping for fun and fashionable stuff, doing nails and braiding hair;  playing Old Maid and hang man; ukulele/song serenades by Klava; continuous gazing and cherishing of  Oscar who found his toes and loved the ceiling fans.  His favorite pass-time consisted of long naps with Mom and the spinning, disco, mirrored globe in the Bubble Room coming in second.  A great time was had by all!  Again, a picture is worth a thousand words so here goes. . .

Pool fun

Ashleigh and Klava at sunset from our deck

Fun and Fashion

Tunnel of Love at the Bubble Room

They flew away on Wednesday afternoon (5^th) leaving Jim, Sammy and me to relish in the afterglow.  On Thursday and today (7^th) fighting a tinge of let-down, we decided to stay and enjoy the resort before heading North tomorrow.

Gonna miss them!

Currently we are tied up at the Offshore Sailing School dock where Curt taught sailing 15 or so years ago here on Captiva.  There are 26’ day-sailboats, 40’ open water boats and a 48’ cat.  It is entertaining to watch the students and staff work together, or not.  Yesterday during a docking exercise the spring and bow lines were looped (no pun intended) around a piling as the captain attempted to swing the boat in against the wind.  Under great strain and not as expected, the piling broke off at the water line sending everyone scurrying to figure out what to do next.  Believe me everyone had a different idea!

I think it was that black piling above that broke off right next to the Namaste

As I have said, it is the people we meet who make this adventure.  One morning while walking Sammy on the beach, I met Chef Lisa, from Cleveland, here recuperating and visiting her daughter.  We connected, had a lovely about-life conversation before parting ways.  Charles, the harbor master, is a kind guy and a wealth of information dealing masterfully with entitled people.  Last night a delightful young family from Minneapolis stopped by the Namaste as I was doing dishes to ask questions such as:  Do you live on this boat? Did you sail here from Michigan?  Do you sail across the ocean?

Sammy Sayz:  They think the family visit was great but I’m thinking what about me? My hang out places were limited to alone on the Namaste during the day or alone on the screened porch of the condo at night with maybe a few “atta girls” along the way.  What is it with this no pet policy?  Next time I’m gonna bark every 15 seconds all day and all night. On the other hand, I did get to run, run, run on the tennis courts at night.

Who’s pouting?

Quote of the Day:  “We don’t have WiFi so you will just have to talk to one another.”  Sign at R.C. Otter’s, a local watering hole

Good Boat Name:  Blew By You (in blue letters on a go-fast boat)

Bad Boat Name: none today

Happy Birthday to:  Lucy (belated), Lisa

March 13-29, 2017

Miles traveled:  170

Total miles traveled:  3275

It has been a long time since I blogged and the first thing I want to say is that I had a wonderful and much needed home-stay the week of March 13^th. Because Mike was away, I was invited north to spend the week with Veta and children but also visited with the CBLC and PHLAN families.  Everyone flexed their schedules to make it happen and I will let pictures tell the story!  Have I mentioned lately that I have the very best daughters-in-law ever?

Oscar at 3 months

Cedar’s new sweater

Lunch with Leonie

Nate on St. Patrick’s Day finding the leprechaun

Klava’s beautiful smile

Liam on Oboe – day #1

Ashleigh and friends for the MHS Charity Dance – Freshwomen

Lexi and Audrey going to the MHS Charity Dance – Seniors

My travels were easy except for the shuttle ride from Miami Airport back to Faro Blanco (door to door).  Upon touch-down my phone rang telling me to hurry as the shuttle, which wasn’t scheduled to leave for 45 minutes, was departing.  Fortunately, I hadn’t checked luggage so I hustled from the far end of the airport to the appointed spot to find the shuttle missing.  Ultimately, I found it about another ½ mile down in the frantically busy ground transportation lane. The Keys Shuttle, 12 passenger van was full to overflowing with two folks requiring three seats.  I piled in by two women, fortunately with the aisle and sliding door to my right thinking I would simply read my book and look out the window for the two hour ride.  Not to be.

In shotgun was a guy who knew everything and continually enlightened us all.  In row #1 was a grandpa with two teenage granddaughters listening through earbuds while laughing and talking at a volume that allowed us all to experience their enthusiasm.  In row #2 with me were two women whom I assumed were traveling together but were not.  In row #3 were a disagreeing couple and a lucky single lady who pretty much sat there in the corner and read her book!

Back to row #2, at some point the lady in the middle turned toward me and I instantly knew that boundary setting was not an option. It became diagnostically clear that this lady was traveling alone, was on overload and anxiety had taken her over.  She had missed her flight from Miami to Key West so the shuttle was her only option to Marathon that evening.  She was physically unable to get out of the van at the rest stop; could not find her bag or her wallet in her bag or her money in her wallet; and forgot the address where she was to be dropped, but kept telling me (and us all) the same beautiful stories about her life back in the day, in NYC. In the end the entire van was focused upon and caring for this delightful lady until we had her in the arms of her waiting friends.  Her gratitude was endless and I will never forget her determination and spirit. I only hope that the world will be as friendly to me and you one day! I was ecstatic to depart the shuttle after our 3+ hour adventure (there was also an accident on Highway #1) seeing Jim and Sammy happily awaiting my return.  I believe they both enjoyed some alone time at this beautiful resort but we were all happy to be together again.  We indulged ourselves with a stiff drink for me and a late-night order of lobster mac and cheese!

Jim accomplished much on the Namaste while I was gone:  painted the head, v-berth and rub rails; varnished the binnacle, cabin floor, hatch, companionway, mast-step, taft and toe-rails; installed a cigar lighter (like in a car) on the navigation pod to plug in an inverter and charge the iPad for navigation during long days of travel; and replaced the Velcro on all the screens. Oh yes, and the taxes are done, check!

During our last week on Marathon/Faro Blanco we enjoyed the company of wonderful people.  Gypsy Spirit (Dan and Jenny Lynn from White Lake, MI) fed Jim spaghetti dinner while I was away and whom I am certain we will meet again. Gypsy Soul (Troy and Lori) we met at an anchorage in Marco Island weeks ago turned up again across from us in the marina.  They reported also seeing us in Panama City, up in the Pan Handle, Thanksgiving, 2015 and although we didn’t meet then, the Universe truly meant for us to connect.  Their youthful energy and interesting life stories were refreshing!  If you haven’t guessed by now, the people we meet and connections we make frequently fall into the “meant to be” category for us.  We had a memorable Faro dinner with both Gypsy families one evening!  Additionally, we were treated to Don and Barb on the gorgeous DeFever 49, Cavara.  Thank you for the lovely dinner and time together.  Also, Jim and Rita onboard Daisy shared incredible life stories from which to learn.  Please let our paths cross again sometime!

A day at Sombraro Beach, Marathon

A sunset dinghy ride home after dinner at the Fisheries.

Ozzy Osbourne and his son had lunch at the Faro Blanco Lighthouse Grille one afternoon – 30 yards from the bow of the Namaste.  His appearance lives up to the legend (he is 68 and looks 98).  We don’t need our paths to cross again but it was fun to watch the fuss of our friendly Faro staff. A special shout-out to Jose, Josh, Sabrina, Mike and Devon (Sterling Heights) – you are the best!

Ozzy is the one with the hat.

Meanwhile we were waiting for a weather window to cross the Florida Bay back to the west coast of Florida to meet Mike, Veta, Klava, Oscar and Ashleigh on Firday (March 31) at Captiva Island near Fort Myers.  The dilemma was that we had our slip rent paid through the 26^th but had a good weather window earlier in the week.  We decided to make a run for it only to change our minds upon wake-up as the weather had shifted once again and our window had closed.  So, on the 26^th, rent paid and things looking pretty good for the necessary 3 day window we departed Faro Blanco, 2017.

One of the many rain shower cells around on the crossing from Marathon to Florida

The weather was not what we would have ordered but fine for day #1.  Winds and waves increased with shower cells dancing about us throughout the 42 mile and 8 hour passage losing all cell connections in about an hour.  We pulled into Little Shark River in the Everglades where we spent the night with seven other boats.  It is as remote a place as I have ever been or probably ever will be at the very southern tip of western FL.  To say that the mosquitoes were thick is an understatement so at dusk we closed up for the night with only a dozen or so mosquitoes to fight down below keeping us awake along with an animal snorting and breathing just off the boat stern as well as a splash large enough to be a ten-year-old child. Both were probably a dolphin or manatee but could also have been a shark or a gator.  As an added feature there was some sort of a low-tone signal we heard every 15-30 seconds all night. After checking and rechecking everything Jim decided it was coming through the hull from one of the other boats in the anchorage but we will never know.   On day #2 we awoke to a cacophony of bird songs and pulled out before dawn followed by a swarm of happy-to-see-us mosquitoes. It was a perfect day and the 56 mile sail up to Marco Island with, at one point, 6 other sailboats was a truly beautiful open-water experience! We anchored about 6 p.m. in Smokehouse Bay and had cell coverage restored – amazing how much one misses LTE!  The mosquitos weren’t visiting yet so we spent a beautiful evening of supper in the cockpit over sunset, going in by dinghy to walk Sammy and enjoy an ice cream cone and then back to the cockpit for some romantic star gazing.  On perfect day #3 we left Marco Island and headed the 15 miles north to the Naples City Dock and a mooring ball where we were greeted by a dolphin playing around the Namaste for over an hour. I have many water pictures but not a single one with a dolphin visible. Day #4 was again beautiful and we sailed the 59 miles to Captiva (South Seas Resort) awaiting Mike and Veta’s arrival. Let nothing get in the way of a family visit!!!!

Leaving Little Shark River at Sunrise – Can you see the mosquitoes?

Leaving Marco Island

Leaving Naples – a parade of boats

Watching crab pots the whole way!

Sammy Says:  There is so much to report but most importantly, Jim and Jo have finally invited me  into the v-berth.  As I believe I have mentioned before, they left me as lookout in the salon – an impossible job on windy nights.  Perhaps they don’t trust me but more likely they have given in to my whining and pacing.  All I can say is, it’s about time and I love cuddling with the family.  On the flip side, I hate going potty on the deck but after 24 with 12 hours left to go…

This is me with my best friend in all the world – Jose!

Good Boat Name:  Sweeter than Wine

Bad Boat Name: Rumpshaker

Quote of the day:  “Do you ever look at your grandchildren and think…wow, how did I get so lucky! – “Share” Stuff

Happy Birthday to:  Sharron (belated)

March 6-12, 2017

Miles traveled:  0

Total miles traveled:  3106

We continue to live in slip B105 at Faro Blanco until March 26^th where we are having a wonderful time with anywhere from 6-10 other looping or cruising boats and their families.  The heavy blow (25-40 mph winds) that began last week lasted for five long days never letting up but the sun stayed out and it was warm the entire time. Two outdoor weddings with dresses and hair flying took place during the wind but even the brides didn’t seem to mind.  Also, a very large vessel attempted to leave the marina before things returned to normal and ran aground in the Gulf as he left.  Apparently, the strong winds had blown the water out of Florida Bay so depths weren’t as charted.  His two large propellers were bent beyond recognition but the captain just happened to have two spares (at $20,000 each) onboard.  A couple of divers and all was well again!

The calm before the storm

A palm in 30+ mph winds

Windy Wedding on the dock.  Note the concerned captain on the left checking his lines.

Captain Jim has been smoothing out a few wrinkles on and off the Namaste.  Most significantly were the bolts that attach our Mercury 6 hp outboard engine to the dinghy.  For some time now he noticed that the bolts were corroded and simply would not turn.  This just doesn’t happen in Michigan.  We had the helpful advice of our friends which included using a “blaster” penetrating spray oil and a heat gun.  When neither of these even budged the bolts and due to the fear of cracking the engine casting, we left it to the professionals.  Two hours and $258 later (everything is relative) the engine bolts turned effortlessly and Jim could check that off his to do list and yes, lubricating those bolts is now on our monthly checklist.  Secondly, the hatch (window over our heads in the V-birth) required refinishing but because it also required removal, it obviously would be accomplished when rain was not in the forecast.  Hours of scraping, sanding, five coats of varnish and a new seal made it look and act new again with only a couple of brief downpours during the weeklong process.  Finally, back to the dinghy, while the engine was off Captain Jim scrubbed the yucky barnacles off the bottom so we are ready for our next dinghy drift.  We have also purchased new cartridges for our self-inflating life vests – one of those pesky, unglamorous, ultimate necessities.

Dinghy (Dink) scraping

In addition to watching the wind blow, nature has been a focus of the past week.  We have seen iguanas sunning themselves and running around on docks.  In the water have been manatees, lobsters and parrot fish particularly visible at night with the neat underwater boat lights. Jim and I also went to the Crane Point Museum and Nature Center at mile marker 50 Bayside which is one of the most understated attractions in the Keys.  The Crane Family preserved the area as the 3^rd largest white coral barrier reef in the world that houses the last remaining thatch palm hammocks containing rare and endangered species.  Its volunteers are truly environmental stewards that maintain the natural habitat of the old Florida Keys!  Included are 1.5 miles/63 acres of nature trails marking plants, trees and palms that lead to The Point offering a spectacular view of the Florida Bay.  A Museum of Natural History, Butterfly Meadow, Wild Bird Center and three historical homes also adorn the property.  There is a 1990’s Wyland mural painted on one wall.  On our hike we saw a nesting Osprey, a rather large spider hanging over the path in its arching web, countless butterflies and a beautiful Lionfish in an museum aquarium just like the ones Ashleigh and I saw snorkeling last year.  There is one small sign marking the entrance across from Publix, it is not to be missed!

Iguana  This guy matches the cement but usually they are in the grass and are lime green

Two Lobsters.  The white lines are slats in the dock with the sun shining through

Lion Fish

Nesting Osprey

Large spider hanging over the trail on his web

White coral barrier reef (3rd largest in the world)

Thatch Palms

On the social side of life, we went to the local movie theater to see La-La-Land.  Emma Stone was wonderful, Ryan Gosling easy to watch and the music/dancing inspirational – highly recommended!  The rest of the story, however was walking the 1.5 miles into the 30 mph winds and spits of rain not in the forecast.  Additionally, the entertainment began while waiting in line outside the theatre with our friends plus several other retired couples and a few Marathon locals.  We were slightly late so were at the end of the line when the ticket agent disappeared into the theatre to count empty seats.  Next the cash register and/or credit card machine weren’t working properly and the 2:00 show-time came and went with about ten of us still standing outside in line.  The local flavor got a little restless and thus providing us with perhaps more information than we needed about their life in Marathon.  Eventually the lady returned, got everyone through the line and into seats before the show began, probably 30 minutes late. Our new friends were in the front row, asleep and snoring within minutes.

We hosted docktails on the Namaste one windy evening which lasted 2 ½ hours which is saying something since the air was hot and the seating hard and sparse. Obviously, the company, food and conversation were lasting.  We have also shared meals with large groups of friends and are headed to my personal favorite, the Sunset Grille, tonight with Kenny and Jeanne of Daybreak as well as Anne and Mel of Morning Star.  As I write this, though, many of our boat buddies have already either left or are preparing for leave taking to the Bahamas or to begin their journey back up the ICW to the north country.  Sunset Delight and Shell Bell left last week, Seascape, Tranquility and Miss Bailey left yesterday morning, Our Plan and Kharma are leaving tomorrow and Morning Star and Sweet T are leaving Monday.  Each of these departures requires a docktail party or celebratory dinner.  Daybreak, Gypsy Soul, and the Namaste remain as well as the new boats that arrive each day.  Oh, and I didn’t tell you about the 110’ Freedom, sister boat to Sequoia which was the yacht serving nine presidents from Hoover to Gerald Ford.  It was totally restored for $6M in 2007 and could not be more beautiful and was the marina highlight for an afternoon and evening.  We never did figure out who was aboard and the dockhands aren’t talking!

Docktails on Namaste

Docktails on the dock

Dinner at the Lighthouse Grille – our own private room

Sunset Grille – The best tiki bar and restaurant anywhere!

Freedom – nothing else to say!

Faro Blanco is next to a Coast Guard Station and the sunset cannon will fire right now!

We mastered Active Captain today!  We downloaded a new navigation app (Garmin Blue Chart) and then added the Active Captain interactive data.  We have tried to do this several times over the last 18 months but finally decided to make it happen today as Kenny offered us a user tutorial.  After many moves, backtracks, changes of Apple password on our ipad, and a long call to Apple support we had SUCCESS!  After a French Horn concert by Jeanne, Kenny sat with us for over an hour and coffee this morning.  Practice will be the key to continued success so Jim is currently creating routes for our future plans.  This stuff is fairly intuitive but not nearly as much as we require.

Sammy Sayz:  All good here.  I did escape again the other day but they didn’t get as upset when I came tearing back to the boat upon Captain Jim’s whistle.  These high winds are most annoying.  How am I supposed to protect them and the boat at night with winds whistling in the rigging, the boat creaking against the fenders, stuff shifting about in the cupboards, the dinghy bumping against the side of the Namaste?  I don’t know what to bark at first so I just shake and whine which usually gets their attention.  My favorite cays are spent laying in the shade by the pool. 

Good boat name of the day:  Freedom

Bad boat name of the day:  Sorry (on the back of a boat going fast enough to throw up a big wake)

Quote of the day:  You have brains in your head.  You have feet in your shoes.  You can steer yourself any direction you choose. – Dr. Seuss

Happy Birthday to:  Katie, Heather and Ilene

Congratulations to:  Ashleigh for earning her varsity letter in skiing as a fresh-woman at Milford High School

February 24 to March 5, 2017

Miles traveled:  30

Total miles traveled:  3106

Our initial four day stay at Faro Blanco concluded when we were informed that we must vacate our slip by Thursday as a 60 plus go-fast-boat rendezvous had reservations for the weekend.  This was a major headache for us and the dock staff but I suspect lucrative for the resort.  We, along with several other boats headed out into the Florida Gulf for various destinations.  We decided to literally move across the street which necessitated traveling 15 miles out, under the Seven-Mile bridge and back into the Marathon City Marina between Vaca and Boot Keys with little rain squalls all about.  Nothing dangerous and we didn’t even get wet!

  One of several squalls but fortunately moving away from us!

This marina/basin consists of 200+ mooring balls with room for safe anchorages as well.  Since all the mooring balls were taken and there was a waiting list, we hunted for and finally found a good anchorage, closest to the marina dock where we could tie up our dinghy for $22/day.  Additionally, this fee included a boater’s lounge with TVs available on a first-come-first-serve basis; a large leave one/take one library; rest rooms; boat work room; showers; laundry at $3/load to wash and $3/load to dry (we are paying for water here); a huge bike rack, the city recreation area for baseball, soccer, small concerts, etc; and the Marathon Detention Center.

Dinghy Dock at Boot Key – not always this calm!

Boot Key Community

Namaste enjoying Boot Key

There were several interesting things about our stay here.  First, this anchorage is where Curt lived on a sailboat after college (approximately 2002-2004) while he taught for the Colgate Offshore Sailing School here in the Keys.  We visited him once and stayed on his boat but living here as he did fifteen years ago provided us with a better sense of his experience.  This basin full of boats is a community of diverse folks from those just getting by who would likely be homeless in Michigan to those who are working a couple of jobs and enjoying the Keys lifestyle to those doing the loop and those cruising in million dollar boats.  There is a VHF radio network that broadcasts every morning at 9 am with the news and events of the day.  There are a few rules such as don’t anchor too close to the next guy; have a light on your dinghy and go slowly at night  but otherwise everyone seems to look out for and get along with everyone else, much like an old fashioned neighborhood where people live outside.

Boot Key Community by night  (anchor lights are a requirement)

Two boats of particular interest included one quite nearby with a pit-bull aboard who spent his day barking at passers-by and longingly searching for his owner’s dinghy to return.  The first 24 hours we never saw the owner and I was getting ready to take him/her some of Sammy’s food when Jim wondered aloud how I thought I might get a plate onto the deck without losing a hand.  I decided s/he didn’t look all that hungry.   In the end, however, a young woman returned with hugs and wild celebration.  My made-up story is that she works long hours and has the dog on the boat for protection which works for them both.  The second interesting boat was a very large catamaran sailboat owned, I am certain, by a hoarder!  I have never seen so much stuff stacked on, tied to, hanging from this boat with literally no room for people.  Looks as if s/he has been there since before Curt.  We also knew the folks on three nearby boats – two from last year (Elizabear and Nordguest) and new friends we met at the Bahama meeting (Blue Moon) who aren’t leaving yet either due to insurance concerns.

Note our adopted Pit Bull – on watch at the center of the picture, sitting on top of the deck just under the boom

We stayed three nights on the hook enjoying beautiful sunrises and sunsets interrupted by calm and beautiful days before heading back to the Faro Blanco resort.

Sunrise and one of my favorite pictures this year

Well deserved relaxing days

Sunsets (we see more of these)

Since we aren’t going to the Bahamas and because it is a good deal, we decided to contract with Faro Blanco for a month stay here where the amenities are many and the worries few.  Nightly fees are $4/foot/night while monthly rates are $1.50/foot/night which is comparable to marinas on Lake Michigan during summer.  No brainer!

Ev and Clark aboard Sunset Delight (see previous posts) are here along with Jeanne and Kenny aboard Daybreak and Anne and Mel aboard Morningstar – all friends from last year.  There are many new friends, both Loopers as well as cruisers including Rich and Paula next door aboard Blue Heaven from Ionia/Saugatuck who are still working in Michigan and love their local Biggby Cafe.  We happily supplied them with a pound of home grown coffee.

Fun events this week included:

• Trip Up-Key for the Gigantic Nautical Flea Market with Ev and Clark

*Two pictures above contributed by Clark Woodworth

• Sunset Celebration at Banana Bay with 150 boaters in progress and Gold Loopers

• Farewell dinner for Clark and Ev at the Lobster and Steak House with Jeanne and Kenny

Caught in a downpour on the way back to the boat with Jeanne and Kenny  Note: we are at the sea turtle hospitalSadly, Ev and Clark leave on the Sunset Delight to head back north to New Jersey and home.  The good byes are hard!

• Birthday dinner at the Lighthouse Grill

Kenny, the birthday boy with Jeanne and us.  One fine dinner!

Cake at the dock party for Kenny thanks to Mel and Anne

• Dinghy drift of 9 boats rafting in the gulf for happy hour and a beautiful sunset

Note the Seven Mile Bridge at the left-center of the picture

• New bilge pump (automatic option on the old one didn’t work, so not good for leaving the boat alone) diagnosed and installed by Captain Jim

• Shopping for doggy necessities and a new bathing suit technologically accomplished by Jo

Sammy Says:  Hi everyone, I sure do miss you-especially Gio, Gillie, Mellow and Brutie!  I haven’t yet met my new relative Nia but miss her too.  My human and extended family here are good to me except for the not so small issue that they won’t let me leave the boat by myself.  I know this place well from last year and there are lots of people to greet and dogs to sniff.  Seems everyone has treats so whatever is their problem?  Anyway, they did get me a good haircut the other day, a relief from the heat and the humidity which we traded yesterday for winds of 25-40 mph. So now the Namaste rocks and rolls all day and night with strange noises and occasional shutters which make me anxious – who knows what could happen – see below.  Anyway, last night Jo Ann was nice enough to sleep with me curled up next to her in the main salon.  I’ll keep you posted about the freedom thing!

Look at this would you!  It is really hot here at the Flea Market and I am so jealous of these guys.

See!  Treats Everywhere

Comfort and protection!

*Italics are Sammy’s words

 Addendum:  A true boat angel story! We learned this morning that Michigan Looping friends had a terrible fright with a happy ending last night!  They are in the Bahamas (ELeuthera) on a mooring all.  While they were off the boat having dinner with friends and in the same 25-40 mph winds and 8 foot waves we’re having here in the keys, their boat broke loose from its mooring ball and drifted 4 miles out to sea with their Daisy Dog and Sammy’s friend, Molly aboard.  After dinner as they tried to return to their boat by dinghy in the dark they realized the boat was GONE but luckily they could see lights far out at sea.  The authorities would not help until daybreak since no human life was in danger but a wonderful local boater ferried the captain who somehow boarded his boat in violent seas, got the boat started and brought it and Molly back to safety.  I tell you this story only because I am feeling so very grateful and happy for their bravery and safety today.  A special thanks to the local boat captain and to the friends traveling with them for their caring support.

As I sit in the boater’s lounge here at Faro Blanco watching the waves crash over the break-wall, I am reminded of the times sitting at Johnson’s Marina in Frankfort waiting for a weather window to return to Boyne City.  The difference is today I’m posting to a blog instead of matching students to social work liaison assignments!

Good boat name of the day:  Living Life (a 27 foot Looping sailboat from Peterborough, Ontario carrying a family of four including Lucas 10 and Marcus 8.  See Lucas’ u-tube video about the loop:  https://youtu.be/XmYGFY27VGI )

Bad boat name of the day:  Prodigal

Quote of the day:  “If you are more fortunate than others, build a longer table, not a taller fence.”   -Canadian Memorial Center for Peace

Happy Belated Birthday to:  Vicki Montgonery and Kenny Beach

February 18 – 23, 2017

Miles traveled: 110

Total miles traveled:  3076 (note: we passed the 3,000 mile mark today!)

It is time to leave the Florida mainland and head south again into the Florida Keys.  We made this 110 mile trip in the open Gulf last year alongside Sea to See so setting out on our own was a new adventure.  We met and had cocktails with another couple who were planning to make the same crossing but they delayed by a day and our weather analysis of several sources told us that the Saturday (18^th) to Sunday (19^th) weather window would be best for us and it was.  Our route was set for Marco Island to Little Shark River (66 miles) on Saturday and Little Shark River to Marathon (44 miles) on Sunday.  Remember we cruise at a maximum of 7 mph.   We up-anchored at first light, snaked back out the narrow marker to open water, waving to a few early risers enjoying their decks and balconies.  Jim engaged in bird calls with someone we could not see – pretty sure it was not a bird.

Leaving Smokehouse Bay, Marco Island

It was calm at first but the breeze picked up and stayed with us most of the day.  Unfortunately, it was on our nose (coming directly from our destination) so sailing was not an option and we motored the entire day.  There was a storm predicted for further north and Coast Guard warning broadcasts on VHF 16 made us slightly uncomfortable but radar assured us that we would be well south of any bad weather.  At the end of the day we never even saw a storm cloud.

Even though we left without a buddy boat, as we came out into the open Gulf we saw two sailboats on our exact heading.  We followed them, eventually catching up and passing them by mid-afternoon.  We tried hailing on VHF 16, the channel which everyone usually monitors, but got no response which seemed strange.  Not friendly we surmised.

We reached Little Shark River at 5:10 p.m., exactly 10 hours after departure from Marco. This had been a long but lovely day. Little Shark River is the recommended anchorage in the heart of the Everglades just before jumping off to the Keys.  To say this place is remote is understating the reality.  There had been no cell signal of any kind since two hours out of Marco Island meaning we had no communication with the world except for VHF radio – no phone, email, text, weather, FB, internet, NYT. . . a really strange sensation in today’s world. Being in the heart of the Everglades, this anchorage is well known for its no-see-um population so as soon as the anchor was set we put up screens and stayed below where I made Snow-on-the-Mountain, a simple but favorite family dish (recipe available) and went to bed early. Hence, no pictures to add.  On the other hand there is also no light pollution and the place is teaming with wild creatures so the night lights and sounds are staggering.  We shared the large anchorage with 8 boats of every size and shape imaginable but the two sailboats following us never arrived which again make us curious.

We rose before dawn preparing to set out on the next leg to Vaca Key, usually called Marathon.  By now it was dead still and hot with some hazy fog and a cloud of no-see-ums surrounding the boat.  I digress to last year remembering when I had so many bites and an allergic reaction that landed me in the ER for a prednisone injection.  Thus, I sprayed myself with Deep Woods Off containing 25% Deet and covered every inch of my body with light clothing hoping for prevention but no such luck!  Because it was dead calm, the cloud followed us across the Florida bay so along with swatting bugs and dodging crab pots we were always busy. Namaste had no crab pot entanglements but I arrived with a couple dozen bites. I have been using topical and taking oral Benadryl and for some reason my reaction this year seems to be less – Jim hardly experienced any reaction to the bites.  Not fair!

You might wonder what happened to the two sailboats from yesterday?  Well, as we set our course for Marathon we looked back to see both up-anchoring from a nearby bay and following us.  It turns out they had unsuccessfully attempted to stay out of the no-see-um anchorage. Eventually, they hailed us on channel 16 and we chatted the rest of the way across promising to meet some day which turned out to be two days later (Tuesday 22^nd) at a gathering of captains planning to go to the Bahamas in the coming weeks.  It was like greeting long lost friends, we shared cocktails and indeed have much in common.

Our new best friends

Speaking of the Bahamas, we went to the meeting of 40 or so people discussing their plans for cruising either the Abacos (northern) or the Exumas (southern) islands.  What we very quickly realized is that we are not even remotely prepared to make this journey.  From customs paperwork to navigation planning and from provisioning to finances we have a great deal of detailed homework to do next summer to get ourselves and the Namaste ready.  As a result we will spend March in the Keys doing things we didn’t do last year and then beginning our meandering up the east coast of Florida back to Indiantown and our Tiguan waiting to bring us home.  We are both slightly disappointed but feel this is the prudent decision.  Captain Jim has begun the spreadsheet. . .

Since our arrival on Marathon, we have been at the Faro Blanco Marina/resort where we spent a couple of weeks last year.  It is a lovely place with two pools, a great restaurant, laundry facilities and access to everything along Highway #1 in Marathon.  So far we have been to Publix and West Marine – I can hardly contain my excitement!  Immediately after our arrival we attended a birthday party for the youngest Looper who we have been following on the AGLCA Forum.  Mia turned six  and the whole marina celebrated complete with cake, balloons, a human sized turtle and pirates.  She is traveling on a 32′ trawler with her parents and 3 sisters.  Add to the story that Mia has significant health problems that require oxygen and a wheelchair.  The family is beyond an inspiration.

Mia, in purple with the crown

Mia’s family leaving for Key West (Mia is in the fly bridge patiently watching)

We are currently experiencing a tropical storm with high winds (30+ mph) and lots of rain so I am personally relieved not to be at anchor.  As I look out over the marina and across the gulf the water is bright turquoise and the sky dark gray, almost black.  Captain Jim is out rechecking and securing the lines.

 Sunset over the bow

Someone recently asked me about our daily routine.  I have to say our activities fall into two categories:  travel days and lay days.  On travel days, depending on where and how far we are going, we are intensely focused on what needs to happen to get to our destination such as plotting a course, watching the weather, following our check lists, securing everything including Sammy, planning simple meals, and sharing “watch” responsibilities.  On lay days we drink coffee and chat for a couple of hours before planning our day.  Often we go sight-seeing or enjoy a restful day by the pool.  Other days we tackle shopping, laundry, long walks with Sammy, never-ending repairs, varnishing, cleaning, or blogging such as today.  Early to bed and early to rise we often take short naps, play cards, read, and share news websites and stories.  We say it is a simple but not always an easy life.

Everyday life!

A word about Sammy.  We have prided ourselves that during her six boating years she has never tried to jump off the Namaste onto a dock. We always gently lift and carry her to safe ground. However, we are currently tied to a marina wall busy with people and dog traffic that is the same height as our deck.  Yesterday, overcome by social urges,  she jumped the 6” onto the dock running after anyone who would pay attention.  We were busy and didn’t even notice she was gone until the dock hands corralled and brought her back.  Sadly for safety sake, her life will change drastically.  Instead of having freedom to run the deck, she will either need to be secured on deck or enclosed below.  Our efforts to reason with her have not produced behavioral change.  Also, at the risk of TMI: over the two day crossing Sammy did not go ashore – hear alligators, eagles and snakes.  When she got restless I attached her leash and said let’s go outside for a walk.  We marched to the bow where I told her to “go potty”.  She promptly complied, returned to the cockpit and with a sigh of relief settled back down for a nap – a big hurdle mastered.   She looks like a ragamuffin but has a grooming appointment next Tuesday which cannot come soon enough for the sake of anyone!

  Hey y’all

Good boat name of the day:  Leap of Faith

Quote of the day:  The best thing about dogs is that you can act like something really great just happened and they’ll instantly start celebrating with you.  They have no idea what context is. . .they’re just always ready to party no matter what!  _Rebel Circus

Happy Birthday to:  Colleen, Shawn, and a very special birthday wish to my wonderful co-grandma, Ollie!  Wish we were there to celebrate with you!

Welcome to the world:  Elliott Ryan Poteau with congratulations to Katie, Ryan and Grandma and Grandpa Littlepage!

February 12 – 17, 2017

Miles traveled: 5 (one side of Marco to another)

Total miles traveled:  2966

Well, it has been a week of fun and lovely surprises.  We stayed on Marco more than a few days, in fact a week, at the wonderful Marco Island Yacht Club and Marina.  This is one of the most expensive stops on the loop but the “weekly rate” meant that by staying seven nights the last two were free so instead of $110 it was $70/night.  Staying also allowed us to leave Namaste in a safe place, rent a car and go to Miami.

Marco Island Yacht Club and Marina

On Monday (13^th) we drove two hours along Alligator Alley across the Everglades into Miami as our Valentine to one another.  It was a nostalgic trip for me in that I made this trip in 1962 with my paternal grandparents – Howard and Dorothy – who welcomed me back to the U.S. from my AFS exchange student experience to Brazil. They drove me from Miami to their home in Venice, FL for a brief visit.   There wasn’t much along the way then and not any more now except miles and miles of mangrove swamp teaming with all crawling, swimming, flying, slithering things.

Our purpose was to meet Curt, Brooke, Leonie and Cedar who were vacationing in South Miami.  It turned out to be the perfect day of loving the grandchildren, swimming in the pool, walking the beautiful Miami waterfront, enjoying a delicious BBQ thanks to Blake’s hospitality and catching up with Shannon and Elena.  Leonie at four loves life, is curious about and up for anything, mostly all at once.  Cedar at one bestows sweet and random smiles and kisses while proving his newly acquired physical prowess.  Stroller naps allowed precious adult time with Curt and Brooke too.  Seeing them gave us a real boost as being away is the hardest part!

Nothing better than time with our beautiful grandchildren!

Back at the marina we took long walks trying to get our 10,000 steps in each day, sat by the pool most afternoons, met great people, toured another beautiful Krogan and were mesmerized by a dolphin who swam alongside our dinghy locking eyes with Sammy about 12” away.

Sunrise over the Intercostal Waterway

Sunrise over the Marco Island Marina

Boat at dusk passing under the S. S. Jolley Bridge to Marco Island

Thursday (16^th), when our week was up and with a good dose of local knowledge, we cast off for an anchorage on the other side of the Island.  In strong winds, high tide and fast current we traversed a tricky channel to enter a small but protected lake where we put down the hook just off the “Esplanade”, a complex of condos, shops, restaurants, and a marina with a dinghy dock. I got a pedicure while Jim figured out and fixed a break in the fuel line from the gas tank to our 6hp Mercury dinghy engine.  We celebrated with dinner at Davide’s Italian Restaurant complete with table-side serenades by the resident virtuoso – a late but romantic Valentines dinner together.

An Osprey on every navigation post.  Many with nests and newborns. Watch the channel, not the birds!!

Namaste anchored in the middle of Smokehouse Bay

Sunset over Smokehouse Bay

The Esplanade at night from the water

Our next step will be traveling from Marco Island, off the mainland of Florida to Marathon on Vaca Key.  One hundred and ten miles – stay tuned!

Good boat name of the day:  Free Wind

Bad boat name of the day:  Who Cares

Quote of the day:  “Trying to understand the behavior of some people is like trying to smell the color 9” – Sarcasm Society

February 5 – 11, 2017

Miles traveled: 14

Total miles traveled:  2961

I haven’t commented on our weather recently so I will simply say that it is perfect.  Every day is in the high seventies/low eighties and we have had only one day and one night of rain since January 10^th.  Not good for the environment but nice for tourism.  We use a couple of fans during the heat of the day plus at night and we are all good. This time last year it wasn’t nearly as nice in the Keys.CBS Days (clear blue skies)

Report on our time in Naples.  We stayed on the mooring ball four nights (the maximum allowed), went into the dock for two nights getting everything charged up, and back out on the ball for a night.  It was a wonderful stay for many reasons but mostly because everything was convenient, the people were great, and we had friends who treated us to some of the local pleasures of Naples.View from the mooring ball

On Saturday (4^th) we set out for a long exploratory walk.  We literally ran into the Naples Farmers’ Market and believe me, not like any ordinary farmers’ market.  Several blocks long it was colorful, high energy, and high fashion with everything for sale from beets to bikinis.  The baked goods gave way to several unique vendors and displays.  From there we headed away from the crowds and to the beach.  Naples is unique in that every street that runs perpendicular to the Gulf has public access with parks and resident parking.  We walked a long way with our feet in the water enjoying the wildlife, both human and animal.  It was quite a display!  About ten blocks up we left the beach and headed to the grocery market – Wynn’s for some provisioning.  By this point it was hot and a long, long walk back to the Namaste carrying provisions so we Ubered back for $5, well spent.

Naples Farmer’s Market

Another day we went back to the beach by way of the Bad Ass Coffee Shop (the name has something to do with donkeys that carry the coffee) and required window shopping.  The beach was even more wonderful as it was earlier and cooler.  We next braved the unknown and walked back through neighborhood after neighborhood of multi-million dollar homes.  The auto-parade is yet another story.There are no words

Additional highlights included meals at Nemo’s and the Ciboa Grille – both excellent – and a walk through the lovely Naples botanical Gardens.  Something we learned:  there are 65 thrift (resale) shops in Naples.  Why you wonder would this community need thrift shops?  The answer lies in the age and stage of its residents.  It is a relatively new community beginning development in the early ‘60’s with lots and lots of older folks buying homes and condos over the last fifty years.  When the inevitable happens, there are lots and lots of gigantic homes and posh condos full of stuff to be disposed.  Families simply call one of the 65 shops who show up and evaluate the goods.  No drop off here, they don’t take anything that is even slightly worn!  The store layouts (one was previously a car dealership) and bargains are astounding.

In the Asian Garden – One of several gardens representing this latitude around the world.

The Botanical Gardens Origami display – paper through to metal sculptures

Orchids everywhere

I may have reported on laundry experiences before but recently gave the prize to a couple who washed two very large loads, threw them both into the same dryer and allowed it to run for well over an hour – never coming back to check on drying progress.  When the dryer shut off I removed their clothes which is a breach of the marina laundromat ethical code but enough was enough.  Since there were only two washers and one dryer we invested over two and a half hours in accomplishing one reasonable sized load of laundry.  No multi-tasking here.  The good news was being outside with an incredible view.

What have we been up to besides meandering down the SW coast of Florida?  Jim has been working hard on varnishing the exterior teak while I perfect the wet-varnish-dance.  Step here, don’t touch there!  Currently he is sanding the binnacle – the post that holds up the compass just ahead of the wheel.  Sammy finds a shady spot in the cockpit and settles down for what she knows will be a long nap!  Hear boring, zzzzz!

Keeping the Namaste beautiful

Today I learned that the manatee is no longer on the endangered list.  Although not sure why, I suspect this is a good thing.  Pelicans (not endangered) greeted us at the breakwater coming into the Naples channel and then gathered for dinner below where the charter boat fishermen were cleaning their catch.  We loved watching the Sandpipers gather on a windy day, in rows like soldiers, facing into the wind. We also identified a Royal Tern.

Naples Greeters!

Where is dinner?  This scene was just off the dinghy dock where we parked to go ashore. Sammy was somewhere between ecstatic and terrified.

The dinner scramble

Sandpipers all in a row

Beautiful Royal Tern

One of my personal favorite, random, beach pictures.

On Thursday (9^th) we sadly pulled up anchor – really released lines to a ball – and headed back out into the Gulf for Marco Island.  It was a short but lovely 14 mile sail.  Upon arrival, we had the choice of either anchoring out in a bay (remember free) or heading to one of several marinas.  Since we knew the weather report was calling for high winds the next day and a few other variables, we opted for the most expensive, Marco Island Yacht Club and Marina complete with pool and beautiful, quiet setting.  What we didn’t know was that due to the spectacular full moon, the tides would be at their lowest of low.  The first morning here we woke up to Sammy’s insistent whining because our keel was resting into a couple feet of soft muddy bottom and the boat was pitched forward.  Our watch dog warned us that something was definitely wrong!  We were tied to a floating dock which kept us upright and were delighted with our decision not to anchor out that particular night.  Sammy has two wonderful playmates, Izzy and Sprite.  Izzy is a black lab who carries two toys in her mouth at all times and Sprite who keeps Sammy in line as it is her dock.

We will stay a few more days in Marco before we head into the Everglades and on down to the Keys.

Good boat name of the day:  Magic Happened (Makes you wonder?)

Bad boat name of the day: Nervous Wreck

Quote of the day:  At times I’m grateful that thoughts don’t appear in bubbles over our head-Kushandwizdom

Happy Birthday to:  Jim, Bernie and Happy Valentine’s Day to all!

Our very best thoughts to:  Michele, Roger

January 30 – February 4, 2017

Miles traveled: 59

Total miles traveled:  2947

On our last night in Fort Myers we had one of those rare but wonderful, I feel like have known you all of my life experiences.  We had been watching a dock-mate carefully sand, tape, stain and then varnish the bright work on his boat.  He was meticulous and painstaking, just like someone else I know.  We never got around to saying hello until another boater mentioned that John, Luann, and the boat Sandpiper were also from Michigan.  I then made it a point to go over, admire his work and mention Michigan.  The litany of what we have in common is endless including they’re home on Lake Michigan just down the beach from Camp Lookout, our shared time at MSU, as well as Jim and John’s engineering and sailing histories.  We enjoyed an evening together with the promise to meet up again in the Bahamas and/or eventually Frankfort!

And we thought we were the only Namaste?

After a rainy Sunday, we left Fort Myers on Monday, January 30^th heading to Fort Myers Beach which is not as close as it sounds and which required navigating the multiple and confusing channel markings at the convergence of the Caloosahatchee River and the Gulf.  We mostly stayed out of trouble.  Since we are attempting to see and do different things this time around southern FL, we called ahead to several resort/marinas along the way but found that they charged more than double our nightly dockage budget which is already way too high.

The pretty part of the channel

The hair-raising part of the channel

Arrived at Salty Sam’s

While at Salty Sam’s we met Loopers Nick, Barb, and Ziggy (Ziggy Zaggy Scallawaggy) who looks like Sammy with long legs.  I mention them because when they pulled up to the dock next to us, I thought she looked familiar.  Through conversation we realized that she had been sitting at our table at the Looper Palooza Conference.  After the first session break her notebook and water remained at the table but she never returned.  By her admission, it was a beautiful day and she has no attention span! Exactly, who needs an indoor boating conference!  They are having boat repairs done but hopefully we will cross paths again soon.

While here Captain Jim got the dinghy outboard motor running again.  Note to selves:  don’t let it sit in the hot FL sun for eight months with gas in the carburetor = syrup.  Another day we walked across the waterway bridge and had a beautiful beach and shopping day.  I found the best  bathing suit store ever, did I just say that?  The pictures (of the beach, not the bathing suits) tell the story!View walking across the bridge in the early morning

Perfect Beach!

Pausing for a moment of reflection, or is it planning?

This White Egret and I share similar coiffure challenges

Continue reading →

January 20 – 29, 2017

Miles Traveled: 2888

We left River Forest Marina on Monday (January 23^rd) grateful that our repairs were done and ready to be on our way after two days of 25-35 mph winds with gusts above 50.  It was an uneventful trip the final 40 miles across Florida to Fort Myers managing two locks and several lift and swing bridges through rural turned high-end Florida. We tied up at the FM Yacht Basin wall, not a pretty but a successful docking under 25 mph crosswinds. This city-owned marina meets our needs well:  good, clean, new showers; large outdoor laundry with a view; dependable internet reception; a ship’s store that has everything and more; a one block walk to the historic district with great shopping and restaurants; close-by post office and library; friendly people and lots of dogs to entertain Sammy.

A swing bridge.  Note the lady in yellow in the right picture – the bridge tender who walks out from shore to open the bridge for each passing boat!

A railroad lift bridge that stays open unless a train is coming.  Just imagine the train engineer coming along (from either direction) realizing someone forgot to put down the bridge!

Namaste safely docked beside the wall in Fort Myers.  We have since moved to a slip.  Note the Looper Flag flying.

Provisioning here isn’t easy with the local Publix a mile or so walk away.  We planned on riding the Trolley back with our many bags.  However, in the lucky and small world category, we ran into our yacht broker who drove us to within 100 steps of the boat.  Thank you, Michael!  Need to provision again today, think we will use Uber.

There have been several highlights to our days here. The social report includes saying good-by once again to our boat buddies Vickie and Ron who are wintering near Orlando and then bumping into a happy-hour group of ten or so Loopers. Many were gold Loopers meaning they having already completed at least one loop.  Some we knew from last winter and several are currently in progress so conversations were fun, interesting and helpful.  Another day we spent with Jim’s cousins Judy and Beth and their husbands Gary and Dean.  We had lunch at Ford’s Garage, ice cream at the local ice cream/popcorn shop and the afternoon by the water catching up with the Kelly/McFall families – the best of family soup!  Then yesterday we accepted an invitation to join Ev and Clark on their beautiful new boat, Sunset Delight – a 52’ Krogan Express.  We went on a day excursion, anchoring for lunch and enjoying Fort Myers from the water.  She is by far the most beautiful boat I have ever traveled aboard and I have been on a lot of boats!

A day with cousins!  Same time next year?

Reflection in Restrooms of Ford’s Garage.  Gotta love the creativity!

Captains Clark and Jim enjoying the day on Sunset Delight!

Another day we hopped aboard the free Trolley and headed to the Edison Ford Estates – really a museum remembering Thomas Edison and Henry Ford.  To say it was interesting is an understatement but for me the depiction of their father/son, turned peer relationship was the best! The two family’s neighboring winter estates and their camping trips into the Everglades alongside the prolific achievements of both men made for an attention focused afternoon.  There was also a Banyan Tree on the property whose canopy covers more than ¾ of an acre.  I fondly remember sitting under that tree with my mom while visiting in the early 1970’s when they first came to Florida.  Today I sat under the same tree having a pretend glass of wine and enjoying a phone conversation with my friend Sally. Captain Jim was watching a movie about Henry Ford and reminiscing his 40 year auto industry career.

Statues of Edison (under the Banyan tree) and Ford along with Edison’s winter estate and a 97’Royal Palm along the Caloosahatchee River – about a mile downriver from where we are.

A word about birds. The brown and most common pelicans catch their food by diving below the water surface which is hazardous to their vision followed by cause of death when they can no longer see their prey. The more rare and somewhat smarter white pelicans simply scoop up the fish with their bills and massive gullets.  We have seen a couple of white pelicans and my hope is to see one while feeding. Also, Sammy and I unintentionally scared up a large flock of white Ibis the other day but I am not sure who was more scared.

A word about books.  Captain Jim is enjoying a book he found on a marina “free” table, Your Boat’s Electrical System,  published in 1973 and a perfect manual for our 1976, Namaste.

We will be here through Monday, January 30^th, catching up on boat chores like laundry, filling water tanks and varnishing the sole (floor) of the cabin.  Today we had lunch outside at the Lodges with beautiful but surreal north country lodge décor which made me a little homesick.  Great food was followed by a walk down main street closed for the local car show.  It is supposed to rain tomorrow which will be our first since leaving Michigan.   Wishing you peace in these turbulent times!

Jim having lunch at the lodges and yes that is a ’65 Corvette over his right shoulder.

Boat Names of the Day:          

Watercolor, beautifully painted

Evergreen, totally white plastic with not a lick of wood or color

Happy Birthday to:  Curt and Roger