November 28, 2009

Florida!

Hello, all you armchair cruisers.



We loved Fairhope... so much more to see and do than we had time for. Fairhope is known for their wonderful downtown flowers, and they surely didn't disappoint! Also for the small shops, including ice cream shops and restaurants. The whole town has a special character. Happily we were able to attend Thanksgiving worship at the community service -- held at the UMC--- a wonderful service followed by a breakfast reception served outside on the lawn. What a great tradition. Then we shared Thanksgiving dinner with about 25 others from the area and traveling Loopers.

Today we moved on and passed some milestones of sorts: we successfully navigated our way from Fairhope to the GICW (Gulf Intercoastal Waterway) in Mobile Bay (18+ miles). That Bay is a lot of open water!!! After a few short miles of the GICW in Alabama, we crossed into Florida! Sometimes we're actually in awe that we're really here in the Eschaton. We were 'welcomed' shortly after by several schools (?) of dolphins in the channel all around us. All this Florida is nice, but the temps are still chilly and the sun is not shining brightly. We're still hoping for warmer weather eventually.

Tonight we are in Pensacola at the Bahai (ba-hee-ne) Mar Marina, which is 1.5 mi from the West Marine store, so we got quite a walk over there and back. We will leave here tomo morning early in order to travel the 40+ miles to Fort Walton Beach before the weather changes, since we have to cross Pensacola Bay to get back to the GICW. We look forward to being in Port St Joe later this week so --among other things,---we can be part of Advent worship in December.

Every day is an adventure... and we almost giggle sometimes that we are finally doing this. At the same time, we are learning a lot... our capabilities and our limitations (thankfully more of the first than the second), and our ability to innovate to resolve a problem.

We are always happy to get your emails, blog comments, and phone calls. We don't want to be forgotten! You at home surely aren't. Blessings to one and all.

Your waterway adventurers, nan and jack

7 comments:

  1. So glad you all are finally able to make some headway. We had pretty nice weather on Saturday.
    About 70 and sun shine. I am talking to a man that is buying a boat about him possibly renting your slip while you are gone. Will update you on that when I know more. Thinking of you all. Ray

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  2. I stayed at Panama City Marina when I was in the area. A city owned marina. Very nice transient slips with private showers and laundry room. About three miles to a store. Ray

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  3. I have thought about ya'll often. Priest Lake will be so boring when you return. Take care, Marylan/BDock

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  4. The man said he would like to rent your slip. He fully understands it's only til you return. Let me know if you are interested. Thanks, Ray

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  5. Arm chair cruising scenery is boring but does not cost much for gas. LOL Have wonderful day. Ray

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  6. So glad you are moving along in your travels! This "armchair cruiser" is enjoying your posts. :) I am happy you were able to enjoy Thanksgiving with friends. Wish I could have been on board to see the dolphins! What a wonderful sight!
    Praying for sunshine and safe travels! You two make a great team. So glad your dream is a reality.
    Blessings,
    Kathy :)

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  7. Nan & Jack

    Coming home from Opry Mills Thanksgiving Day I ran across your blog to find that you are indeed travelling. Sounds like you're enjoying the trip and the experience. Thanks for posting so we can enjoy from home.

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