Monday, February 20, 2006

We’ve traveled many, many miles on many, many levels since our last entry and our Junkanoo photos. We received word of my mother’s death on January 25th as we were about two hours out of George Town, Exuma. As we all know, death changes reality and focus in a heartbeat and by the next day we were on our way back to Montana. Mom’s services were held in Dakota on January 31st and our entire family gathered once again to say good-bye to a Precious One. Losing both Mom and Dad in two month’s time has been a challenge and has altered our reality considerably.

After returning to Helena, we closed Mom and Dad’s apartment at the Waterford, took a quick trip to the lake house to do taxes and check on things there, and traveled back to “Take Two” on February 10th.

We were fortunate to be offered a place at the St. Francis Marina for our boat while we were gone. The folks who own it are representatives for our boat and are from South Africa. They’ve been helpful to us beyond our expectations. We’re staying here until Mary arrives from Montana on Wednesday, February 22nd. Then will head out island for a week or so. We’re really looking for time with her on board! She’ll be with us for two weeks.

We are sending a photo of our “home away from home” at the St. Francis Marina. Also one of Phil’s maiden voyage on his new kayak. His has a clear bottom so he can enjoy chasing manta rays and watching starfish as he travels. The kayaks have been a great addition to the toy arsenal on our boat this year.

George Town is a busy, social place. We’re going to race “Take Two” in the local regatta on March 4th. We have our sights set on the “Mirth and Merriment” award. We’re importing some ringers for that one!! I’ve enjoyed yoga on the beach and Phil has been involved in a local “Habitat for Humanity” effort spearheaded by the boaters here.

Hope you are all staying warm wherever you may be. Sending you sun, sea, sand, and ocean breezes!

Judy and Phil
S/V Take Two