Winters Almost Gone

Derby Girl

The winter cruising season is quickly coming to an end, and what a time it has been. After arriving a month later than scheduled, we have certainly made up for the lost time. There has been an over abundance of things to do and at times, scheduling has been difficult.

Cruisers tend to create reasons to gather for fun and frolic, and our friends at the Royal Marsh Harbour YC are no different. In early March there was an impromptu Kentucky Derby Party. The ladies created fanciful hats, and then paraded around the grounds for everyone to see. Judging was tough, but in the end the winner walked away with a bottle of Nassau Royale rum, making all the time and effort worth while. While Carolyn's did not win, she did get favorable reviews for her creativity.

On Your Mark

And if that wasn't enough, there was a Veggie Car Derby. Each each entry was created using a variety of fruits and vegetables, many of which are not common varieties. Again, a lot of fun. There were about thirty entries altogether - and the bell peppers, carrots and yucca plants were introduced to the crowd as Speedy Dick, Toy Box or Big John. Being somewhat of a nautical surrounding, a bell pepper entry sported a lettuce leaf sail, another proudly displayed the Canadian flag - not that any of these proved to significantly increase their speed.

The Aftermath

There are a few in the group that faced other challenges. Those are the ones who are convinced that they will never grow old and attempt the more youthful activities. Pickle Ball was the bone crusher that claimed two shoulder injuries, an Achilles tendon and a host of bruises, scrapes and wrist injuries. Those attending Yoga Class over stretched many a muscle, and our newest dock neighbor (shown in the wheelchair) was hit by a car as he slipped off a sidewalk during his morning walk. A series of falls, stumbles and missteps had several others on crutches or in slings.

As for us, we have thus far come away unscathed opting to stay away from the more physical activities by attending several musical concerts supporting Every Child Counts, the school where Carolyn volunteers. We are enjoying our individual art projects while relaxing on the boat, far removed from harms way.

Music Doing Good, a talented musical group from Houston, TX performed with the students from ECC in late February. It was a heartwarming experience to see the excitement generated following a week long workshop at the school.It was remarkable to watch and listen to the song and dance numbers they had put together in such a short time. The Houston ensemble travels to perform exclusively with programs for students having special needs.

So there you have it. The weathers been great, there are no broken bones, although Coco did fall overboard one evening when she misjudged the distance from the boat to the dock. We have enjoyed being with our many friends in the Bahamas, and continue to count our blessings that enable us to enjoy such a wonderful lifestyle.