The winds continued blowing from the northeast until Wednesday, November 9 when we finally made our escape to Amelia Island, FL. St. Andrew's Sound was still rocky/rolly; however, it has been worse. And, as it turned out it our travel was well-timed with other cruisers who also stopped in Fernandian Harbor Marina. We had drinks on Palmetto Moon with our friends Jim and Laurie of S/V Kismet followed by dinner at Brett's with Chris and Susan of M/V Forever Friday. Since the weather was nice, we continued south with stops in St. Augustine, Daytona Beach, Merritt Island, and Vero Beach.

On Monday, November 14, we cruised for about 2 hours arriving at Ft. Pierce City Marina where we think we'll spend the winter. We had another boater's first experience on this short trip -- we passed a 40' Sea Ray that was cruising at trawler speed!! Jim called them on the radio and asked if they wanted a slow pass, and the reply was "pulling it back to idle and thank you".

After visiting with Larry and Sue on M/V Sue Sea Q, Thanksgiving with Su's sister on Palmetto Moon, and then visiting with Ken and Evelyn on M/V Sea Level, we have settled into a routine of relaxing and doing our boat chores. On Saturday, Jim walks to the Farmers' Market and buys breakfast and usually returns with some goodies for other mornings. Su walks over later and picks up the vegetables for the week and wanders through the Arts & Crafts section looking for gifts for others. As you can see, Alex has his routine of sleeping most of the afternoon. We caught up on all the gossip, meaning marina news and city news, from the locals who have become friends over the years. Su and Sue, our friend from Vero Beach, have designated Wednesday as the day of shopping, lunch, drinks on Palmetto Moon, and dinner.

We are truly enjoying our stay as the weather has been wonderful -- most days in the low 80s/high 70s and nights in the high 50s. This is the life.