Friday February 21: Back to Home Alone

We had a great time with Steve's brother, John, and his wife, Daisy! They had never been to Crane Point so we went there yesterday. It was a perfect day with warm winds blowing.

Standing in front of a life size manatee gives you some sense of how large these very docile animals are compared to people!

The tram ride around the property was very well done. This is the same one Joe and Joy went on except our guide yesterday was a "newbie" but still very knowledgeable about the area's plant and animal life.

This picture is near the part of the grounds which contained a private swimming area for the owners. It's salt water but very pool like. Of course now it's pretty overgrown with mangroves.

We were all tired last night - what is it about being outside in the sun and wind that is so draining???

Regardless, we managed to finish the game of dominoes that was started the night before. It's amazing how we can actually play a full game with the limited space on our small table!

Mmmm ... today was their last day here - must need to go for a ride, right? We were too tired last night so off we went this morning (thanks for the picture, Terri!).

With two extra deck hands, the getaway from the dock was smoother than ever!

The water was very clear but the chop on the water from the winds didn't allow us to see down into the water. We were looking for turtles on the surface but no luck.

Steve tried his hand at fishing but no takers there either. We did however manage to try out the anchor after adjusting the clutch on the windlass. Worked like it always should have but never did. Check off one more thing on our 'to do' list.

And before sending John and Daisy on their way, Steve thought it would be good for John to fully experience a boater's life: how to empty the holding tank!!

So off to the marina office they went, brought back the portable hose, hooked it up to the drainage system at the dock, hooked the other end to the boat - and done! An empty holding tank.

Who knew it would be so easy :-)

Tomorrow? Not sure but too windy to fish so I suspect there will be some work involved. After all, it's been almost a week ....