Saturday, April 5, 2008

Marco Island to Marathon, Florida

Because of strong headwinds coming from the South, we opted to journey down the West Coast of Florida rather than the 100 mile open seas trip directly to Key West. Even with this, we were confronted with 3 to 4 foot seas, sometimes the waves would crash over the bow, drenching the bikes we mounted on the railings (even though covered). But the boat performed flawlessly. It's made to take this. We were a little weary after 4 hours of pounding waves, however.

Glad we went this way for another reason. We got to see Everglades City, a small quaint town nestled in the heart of the Everglades 6 miles up the Barron river. The town's main industry appears to be crabbing and air boat excursions. We tied along the docks at the Everglades Rod and Gun Club, a beautiful old majestic building which has been reopened recently. The entire interior looks like a piece of fine furniture, a true work of art.

Then, further down the coastline we anchored in the Little Shark River. It had a very remote feeling. No phone access, just us and nature in the dark along with some mysterious sounds. Several times in the night I heard what sounded like a large animal exhaling from somewhere on shore. Or was that an alligator in the water? Marlene, of course, made sure I kept the doors on the boat locked. (by the way, she won't know I heard those sounds till she reads this blog)

Today Saturday, April 5, we continued south to Marathon, Florida, dodging crab pots all the way. Marathon is part of the 100 mile string of islands called the Florida Keys. I've rented a car to drive the 50 miles to Key West. We'll be at Glad Tidings Assembly of God there tomorrow.

1 comment:

Team Hasselhoff said...

This is Sara... we created the handle 'Team Hasselhoff' for our Fantasy American Idol league, so when you see a post from TH, that's us!!

I told Mom via Troy that Tim Skoog said he woke up this morning with an urgency to pray for you. He had heard about weather where you are, so I am glad to hear that you did not make the trip across open seas! I should pass this blog address on to him so they can keep up with your journey.

I saw Dawn tonight and she said she could get used to the idea of making a trip like that! She said the boat looks great, and that Mom had made it a home. I can't wait to see it!

Ruby had her 9month check up this week. She is 16 pounds, in the 25% for size, and right on track with everything. She says, really just this week, dada on cue. Mama is more like a nana, and it is harder to coax out of her.

Lisa invited Becca and I over to learn the art of decorating Ukrainian eggs. It was amazing! I can't wait to get a kit and teach Grandad. He is going to go crazy. it was fun to learn it from Lisa since she remembers decorating eggs with her mom and dad. We decided that it will be a tradition to use Lisa's extra dye after Easter, so you can join us next year mom!

We love you and miss you! I will keep reading about your adventures, and will send pictures when we take them.

Kirby got first place in the Pinewood Derby (in his grade, not overall)! He has been carrying the trophy around with him for two days. Toby sang in the children's program tonight starring Jack and Josie... they did great! Jack is following in his father's footsteps.

love you,
Sara