Tuesday. May 31, 2011

We had rain last night for the first time since we arrived here at Lake Park. But, this morning the sun came out and the breeze was lovely. Another beautiful day in Paradise. John got the oil changed in the generator this morning and then I went to Norm and Sue's boat to sew curtains for them. They are almost finished, but we ran out of Velcro. We had another enjoyable Happy Hour and ordered pizza for supper. All in all, a good day!

Memorial Day, 2011

After doing chores this morning, we mostly just chilled the rest of the day. We had an extra long Happy Hour with Norm and Sue. It was so much fun, we didn't want it to end, but we had to make dinner so we could eat at a halfway decent hour. Happy Memorial Day to everyone!

Sunday, May 29, 2011

John, Sue, and Norm

A small slice of the view of boats anchored, beached, and moving.

Yesterday when we were at the ice cream parlor, sitting outside enjoying our treat, a car pulled out of a parking space with an Ohio State license plate frame. As he pulled out, I did the O-H-I-O hand signals. I didn't think he saw me, but as he passed, he honked and waved. Cynthia, it made me think of you.

Today we went to church and then out for brunch. It really does seem like all we do is eat. It's a good thing that we are in a place where we can walk. There is an island here named Peanut Island and on the holiday weekends, people go there by water taxi or their own boats and beach, pitch tents, and PARTY!!!! It looks a bit like the fireworks weekend in Cincinnati. Tonight the Coast Guard brought a boatload of people into our harbor. They impounded the boat and arrested the captain. The other people on the boat were complaining that this is not where their cars are parked. The Coast Guard told them that they had to find their own way to their cars.

Saturday, May 28, 2011

We took care of more errands today and then had a nice lunch at Panama Hatties. There were so many good sounding things on their menu that we'll have to go back there again. Then we went to an ice cream parlor and had ice cream. They even had sugar free for John. When we got back to the marina, we had a hard time finding a place to park. Holiday weekend! Hope all of you are enjoying your holiday weekend.

Friday, May 27, 2011

We rented a car again for the weekend. The four of us left this morning and did some shopping for the boat, mostly. We had a really pleasant lunch at The Tiki Restaurant at the Riviera Beach Marina. The food was good and the service was even better, a completely enjoyable experience. When we got back to the marina, Sue and I went for a walk to a beauty salon so that Sue could get her hair cut. Then there was a "Sunset Celebration" at our marina. There were a few craft booths, a drink booth, and two food booths, one of which was run by the local Kiwanis club. John and I talked to the workers and were told that if we want to attend their meeting, to call the President of their club (she was the person we were talking to) and she would send someone to pick us up at the marina. How about that? Their meetings are Thursday at noon and I believe we will take them up on their offer.

Thursday, May 26, 2011

I spent the day cleaning. Yuck! But, it's done. My walking buddy is back, so Sue and I went for a walk. John fixed the forward head. Then, after all the work was accomplished, we had Happy Hour on Norm and Sue's aft deck. Life is back to normal.

We have reserved a car for this weekend as we did for the past two weekends. It's nice to be able to look forward to being mobile and able to see the area. Tomorrow evening there is a Sunset Celebration Party at the harbor. They have Sunset Celebrations every month on the last Friday.

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

John, the generator repair guy, came back today and finished working on the generator. Now John, my husband and Captain of our boat, has to change the oil in the generator , run it for about 10 hours and then change it again. We are both so happy that it is fixed. It sounds better than it has in a very long time. The only other thing that happened today that you would be interested in, is that Norm and Sue are back!!! They crossed from the West End in the Bahamas today, leaving there at 6:30 this morning and arriving mid afternoon today. They are about 3 slips away from us. We had a dinner of Papa John's Pizza on the aft deck of our boat and called it a night shortly after since they are both pretty tired. It was great to see them again. We are glad they had a safe trip back to the USA.

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Today was a very productive day. I finished sewing the tabs on the aft canvas and mending the dashboard cover while John finished polishing the rails. Then we walked to the grocery store. Then the guy came to work on the generator. It turned out that the problem was that the governor was stuck on the injectors. We were glad that it was something fairly simple and inexpensive. The guy (John) is coming back tomorrow to put the finishing touches on it. We received our mail from home today. So, after a nice chicken enchilada dinner, we are settling in to read our magazines. John said there is a picture of our boat (and Norm and Sue's boat) in Heartland Magazine from April (which we just got). Too cool! Oh, by the way, it didn't rain today either.

HOT HOT HOT

It was 90 degrees and humid today. We've only had about 10 minutes worth of rain since we've gotten here. That's just about opposite what you've had at home in Cincinnati. We have outside work to do on the boat tomorrow. So, it will most likely pour down. Time will tell. John spent a large part of the day working on the stainless rails. He rubbed the surface rust off and made them shine. They look really nice!

We met a new couple on our dock tonight. They came to look at our shades we hung on the back deck because they are thinking of doing the same thing. Their boat is a Mainship and their names are Ann and Howard. Very friendly people. There is a young man named Tom on the boat directly behind us. He works for the owner of the boat, looking after it while the owner is in New England. He's a nice guy who likes his job, but he's bored a lot of the time.

Saturday I picked up a BoatUS flyer on hurricanes and what to do with your boat in case of a hurricane. It scared the devil out of me. It makes it harder to fall asleep at night worrying about hurricanes. We've never had to deal with that before (and we hope to never have to deal with it in the future either).

Sun., May 22, 2011

John and I went to St. Paul of the Cross Church this morning. That religious bookstore in the vestibule is so tempting. They have medals for every Saint, statues galore, rosaries, necklaces, lots of books and videos. Their bulletin is printed on glossy paper and about 6 pages long. It's so different from the Churches at home. After Mass, we went out to breakfast and then back to JoAnn's for more fabric. Yea! Tomorrow the car goes back and if the same deal is in effect for next weekend, we will rent one again. However, next weekend is the holiday weekend, so I have my doubts about the same deal going on. When we got back to the boat, we went for a walk and then I sewed. What a mess I make when I sew. Everything ends up on the bed. So, I really have to want to sew to make that big of a mess that needs to be put away before we can go to bed. (It has been put away.)

Saturday, May 21, 2011

Today John went back in the engine room to work on the generator. After two more trips to the boat store, he finally got the pump hooked up and it ran fine. However, we still have an issue with the generator. Apparently, after an hour or so of running, it slows down and quits. So, John is thinking it's a fuel delivery issue. Monday he is going to call someone to work on it.

I got out the material I bought yesterday, and discovered that I didn't buy enough. Hopefully, we can go back to Jo Ann's tomorrow to get more. I did manage to get a haircut today as well. There was a fishing tournament here at the marina today. There were food booths and rides for the kids. There was also a car show about 2 miles away. Lots to do today. We had dinner at an Italian restaurant tonight and it was really good. I think we were really hungry.

Friday, May 20, 2011

Enterprise came to pick us up at 8:00 A.M. this morning and we have wheels until 8:00 A.M. Monday morning. We spent the morning trying to find the fittings John needs for the generator pump. Westerbeke doesn't make the pump any longer and so we ordered the replacement pump. The new pump came with one fitting, but we need two and can't seem to find another one. John dropped me off at Jo Ann Fabrics while he went to Home Depot. That was wonderful! I bought more needles to work on the canvas and two pieces of material to make shorts for myself. After dinner, we went to an outside bar with a man playing steel drums. There was a pretty loaded older woman there who was bugging the heck out of this drummer. The owner told her that he was paying this guy to play and that she should leave him alone so that he could play. I certainly hope she wasn't driving home. Tomorrow we attack the generator again.

Thursday, May 19, 2011

John and I went for a nice long walk this morning and then stopped to have breakfast on the way back to the boat. So much for the exercise. Once we got back to the boat, we both attacked our chores. John fixed the compressor for the horns and the anchor light and I sewed tabs back on the canvas panels on the aft deck. I still have four more to go, but the hardest one is finished. It's in the upper eighties here, but there is usually a nice breeze. Tomorrow when we get the car, we have a lot of errands to do. It's strange because last weekend I thought we had done all of the errands I could think of, and now there are so many more.

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

John worked on putting the pump on the generator. The pump is physically attached, but the hoses are not attached to the pump. John thought he had all of the fittings and clamps he would need, but there was one he didn't get that he needs. So, we have to wait until Friday when we have a car again to go and get the fitting he needs to finish the job. There isn't much else happening today. So, I'll blog again tomorrow.

Monday, May 16, 2011

Mother and Baby Manatee

This is the first time on this trip that we were on the top side of the drawbridge.

Claude, Yvette, John, and Carol at Carrabba's

Me and my friend Captain Morgan



We had to take the car back this morning. Boo hoo! But, we got our use out of it while we had it. We went to St. Paul of the Cross Catholic Church on Sunday morning. They had the coolest religious store in the Church vestibule. I've never seen a store of that kind so well stocked. Shortly after getting back from Church, our friends Claude and Yvette stopped here for the night on their boat to visit with us. We went to Carrabba's for dinner with them. We always enjoy their company. They had to leave this morning because of the way their boat insurance specifies about hurricanes.


We received our order from Defender this afternoon, including the pump for the generator. So, I suppose that will be tomorrow's order of business, to install the pump. We also had to order a new splitter because ours shorted out when we were in Homestead. We bought some heavy duty thread so that I can work on our canvas. The fender covers and dashboard cover need mending as does the canvas on the aft deck. So, it seems we both have our work cut out for us. Why was I anxious to receive this package? It only means more work.



The weekend deal for the car was so good that we went ahead and reserved a car for next weekend too. Til next time.....

Saturday, May 14, 2011

John and I have rented a car for the weekend. Yesterday we found a West Marine online that was nearby and when we got there, we were commenting that it looked like a new store. Once we were inside and speaking to the employees, we found out that it was their very first day. They had been open only a couple of hours. We, of course, did our part and bought a few things. We found a Jo Ann's Fabric Store and spread a little money around there as well. We bought a new grill at Home Depot, socket wrenches at Sears, and beer and soft drinks at Target. I can't believe John lasted shopping that long. It was fun. We have the car until Monday morning. So, I wonder where we will explore today.

When we were out and about yesterday, a woman stopped and asked me for directions. I told her that I didn't have a clue because I am from Cincinnati, Ohio. She said she is also. She asked which part of Cincinnati. I told her Delhi. She said she is from Delhi as well. She asked me if I went to Seton High School. I told her that John and I owned Billies Pony Keg until 2009 and she said she and her husband owned Wagner's in Price Hill. What a small world!

Wednesday, May 11, 2011

We moved our boat to a floating slip because it's supposed to be less rocky and we won't have to worry about the tide. We went for a couple of walks today and spoke to a lot of our family on the phone. We are still at Lake Park Harbor Marina. The people who work here are nice and helpful. I gave John another haircut. So you think I should let him give me a haircut? I need one and don't know where to find a beauty parlor, but I'm afraid, What's the worse that could happen? Hair grows back eventually. We'll see. We may have some company this weekend. That would make us happy. We love having guests.

BACK IN THE STATES

We left our anchorage at 6:15 A.M. and headed for Florida. We had chosen a good day to make the crossing. The waves were 1 to 2 feet high, a gentle breeze, and temperatures in the mid 80s. We didn't encounter any issues. We decided to go to Lake Park Marina on Lake Worth and to stay for a month. The rates are much better if you stay for a month as opposed to paying by the day. So, we have great Internet service here, free water, laundry, showers, and a grocery store right next to the marina. Our first order of business was to walk over to the Winn Dixie to get some fresh fruits and vegetables, ice cream, and a pizza. Yummy! We had gotten a local boaters option card at the customs office in Key West when we were there. It was free and allowed us to check in with customs and immigration without physically going there. It only took a phone call. That saved taking a cab or renting a car and going to Miami Airport. Much easier when you are tired and ready to just take it easy for a few hours. We had a good time in the Bahamas, but we are glad to be home.

Monday, May 9, 2011

We left Ocean Reef Resort this morning around 9:00. We had a beautiful day to cruise, good temperature, low winds, and not to big of waves. We went 30 miles to the West End on Grand Bahama Island. We didn't go to the marina, however, because it costs $3.00 per foot plus electric. We anchored out instead. We are fortunate to be able to pick up a WIFI here. Hopefully, we will leave here in the early morning and head to Florida, either Lake Worth or Stuart. We will check in with you then.

MOTHER'S DAY

It seems that every time I tell you all what we plan to do in the future, we change our mind and then I have to tell you that I fibbed. Well, I fibbed. We are still at Ocean Reef Resort in Freeport, Bahamas. The weather looks better for crossing to Florida on Tuesday rather than Monday. So, we shall see.

Today we spent the day at the pool. Because this place is a time share vacation place, the guests turnover on Saturday. So, we are meeting a whole new batch of people. We met 2 couples from London, Ontario. They are both here on their boats and did not know each other before coming here. It's holidays like this that make being away from home harder.

Saturday, May 7, 2011

The morning was spent doing ironing for me and washing the boat with fresh water instead of salt water for John. Then I worked some more on my quilt. The top is sewn together now. The border is all that is left to do. I spent the afternoon swimming. There is a pool and a hot tub, so I went from one to the other and back again. Everyone we've met here have been so friendly. Most of the people own time shares here and come every year. So, they know a lot about what there is to do and how to get around. They are happy to share that information with you. Tonight we went to Grouper's for dinner and to watch the Kentucky Derby. That was some race! I wish I had bet a lot of money on the winner. He paid rally good odds. After dinner, we went for a walk around the complex and I took some pictures which I am sharing with you now. We are getting ready to leave here tomorrow, providing the weather is going to be good tomorrow and Monday. This will probably be my last blog until Monday night or Tuesday. Happy Mother's Day to all of you who are Mothers.

FUN DAY!

This morning we started out walking to Port Lucaya on the Bell Channel. We walked about a mile when a charter bus stopped and asked if we wanted a ride to Port Lucaya for $1 each. So, we rode the rest of the way which was about another 1 and 1/2 miles. We had breakfast at Le Med and watched all of the cruise ship passengers parade through on their way to their shore excursions. We heard one couple say how rough it was on the ship the previous night and that they hoped tonight that they wouldn't be seasick. We walked through the shopping district and the straw market. There were 2 ice cream stores in the shopping district and the one even had sugar free ice cream. Then we went across the street to the casino. We couldn't figure out how the casino stays in business. There were very few people gambling and it's illegal for the Bahamians to gamble. I ended up being $1.95 ahead. Woo Hoo! But, that's better than losing. We bought a bottle of Ricardo's Banana Rum, a loaf of bread, and a dozen eggs. Then we took a taxi back to the resort.

Later, we both went swimming. And then we played Texas Hold 'Em with a couple named Hank and Diane who are from Ontario, Canada. What an enjoyable day!

(John lost at the casino, but I don't think it was much.)

Thursday, May 5, 2011

Today we had rain showers off and on all day. We did chores and had launch at the restaurant here at the marina. I went swimming this afternoon and met some very nice ladies who gave me more information about things to do and where different things are located. One lady named
Donna told me that a boater named Diane is planning a grocery trip to a new grocery store. Supposedly, it is newer and cheaper than the one the marina runs shuttles to. The shopping trip is Saturday morning at 10:00. Milk, bread and eggs are all I really need. Some fresh fruits and vegetables would be nice too. Tonight the resort had a movie at the outdoor pool side restaurant. It was called "Limitless" and had Robert de Niro in it. That was one weird movie. John only lasted for about 30 minutes before he gave up on it. I stayed to the end, but I didn't like the movie. Well, that's it for tonight.

Wednesday, May 4, 2011

We left Great Harbour Cay Marina this morning at 6:00 A.M. and had a wonderful cruising day. The waves were small, the wind was nonexistent, and the temperature was around 80 degrees. It doesn't get better than that. We went 74 miles in 8 hours and 43 minutes, arriving at Ocean Reef Resort and Yacht Club near Port Lucaya (Freeport). This harbor has a lot to offer. It has free WIFI, free water, electric (55 cents a kilowatt), a pool, a restaurant, a dive shop, laundry facilities, car and bicycle rentals, and condos they rent out. A couple named Maggie and Jim who also have a 42 foot Jefferson, helped us with our lines upon arrival. They were really nice and told us a little about the marina. They are from Nevada and have been here since December. We are glad to be here. We walked around the facility to figure out where everything is. They have scheduled activities each day and a shuttle that will take you to the grocery. Now, if I can just find ice cream. I am so hungry for ice cream. It's been so long. Who knows, maybe ...........

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

Tonight is Tuesday night and we are hoping to be moving on in the morning. So far, it seems to be favorable for cruising, but we will reevaluate in the morning. It feels weird to not be consulting with and traveling with Norm and Sue. We did get an email from them today. They got to Marsh Harbor yesterday. We were happy to hear that they are safe and sound. Not much else is happening. We plan on taking off tomorrow at 6:00 A.M., weather permitting. So, it's going to be an early night.

Monday, May 2, 2011

Wow! We heard the news this morning about Osama Bin Lauden. Amazing after all this time. We are still hanging out at Great Harbour Cay Marina. It looks like we will be moving on the day after tomorrow (Wednesday). John and I had dinner Saturday night at the pool bar restaurant. We met several people sitting at the bar. One couple from England were sitting next to us. They had a 7 and a 10 year old daughter. We enjoyed all of the conversation and meeting people from all over the world.

I spent all morning yesterday and today sewing on the quilt I started last year. All of the squares are finished. Now it's time to join them together and put the border on it. I can't wait until it's finished, so I can start something new. Til tomorrow.