Second Wind on the Great Loop and Beyond

Thursday and Friday, February 8-9. Trying to catch up . . . . . The cruise from Marathon to the beautiful "village of islands," Islamorada, was pleasant except for a virtual minefield of crab pots. The weather is at last delivering true Key's weather, with temperatures in the high 70's. We lucked out on our marina, Plantation Yacht Harbor -- beautiful, convenient, well maintained. Ahhhhhh! We have a little beach, there is an Olympic-sized pool, a walking path . . . . and very important. . . . pleasant shower/restroom/laundry facilites just a few feet away. Oh, did I mention that our slip is right by an ampitheater, where Arlo Gutherie will be performing on Sunday? We will enjoy the concert from our deck! A bit of serendipity, I'd say.

We are feeling incredibly fortunate. The first day we were here, I remembered where I had hidden Mary and Sterling Withington's phone number. They spend winters in nearby Key Largo. I called, and Mary graciously invited us to dinner at their delightful hideaway on the ocean. What a treat to have a delicious flank steak dinner with charming folks from home, (also thoroughly enjoyed the Withington's guests, from Huntsville too). The view was spectacular, the dinner relaxed and wonderful (did I mention homemade Key Lime pie?), and the company very, very fine.