More Provo

January 29 - February 3, 2014

When we arrived in Turks and Caicos, we had to declare if we would be here for a week or longer.  We told the Customs Agent that we hoped to be on our way in less than a week.  OK, the fee is $50.  Stay longer than a week and a cruising permit is required -- an additional $300.  If you read my last post, you know that we are here indefinitely!  The customs agent came back after a week and we were resigned to pay the $300.  As we chatted, I said we are waiting for a weather window.  "Oh, Mam, don't worry about the cruising permit.  If the weather keeps you here, we won't charge you."  I thanked them profusely.  "No need to thank us -- it is the fair thing to do."  WOW!  How nice is that?  'The fair thing to do.'  I haven't heard that phrase in a long time.  Sometimes out of no where -- a random act of kindness gives you a big hug!  Luckily for him -- he was on the dock and I was in the cockpit or he would have gotten a big squeezy hug!

One might think from my reports of delays and harrowing moments that we might decide to shorten our trip.  WRONG!!!  We have decided to go all of the way to Trinidad.  We will have the boat pulled in Trinidad and leave it there for hurricane season.  This will give us several months to visit family and friends back in the states and perhaps do a little land travel to New York and/or Maine.  In September we can fly back to Trinidad and wait for the end of hurricane season as we explore the immediate area.  Once it is safe to travel again we will begin our voyage north taking time to visit all of the islands that have been recommended.  Arriving back in Stuart in June of 2015.  Sounds like such a logical plan.  Now stay tuned to see what really happens!           

Abraham and Wilma are a Dutch couple that docked next to us.  We  spent several evenings chatting about travels and life.  They are on their way north to the US.  We were able to give them some suggestions about their upcoming stops and they were a wealth of information about our travels south.  Spending time with them  has made us even more excited about what lies ahead.  It sounds like the islands just get better and better!  Most of the boats down here have a crew on board and are on their way to pick up owners.  They are all business and working a fast schedule.  It was a nice change of pace to share time with an interesting couple.         

We found this deserted little beach, pulled
 the dingy up and had a picnic lunch.

Since the rental car was returned we are  spending more time in the dingy and on our bikes.  Brian loves to be in a car, but I am happier with these options.  

My new knees are enjoying the bike riding.  6 - 7 miles
 each morning with stops at a variety of shops including
the grocery & French bakery.

A remnant from the past. The Loyalists had 
Sea Island Cotton plantations here in the
late 1700's and early 1800's. 

The main shopping district in the resort section.

We haven't caught any fish, but I have
found some nice shells.  The two starfish
are from George Town and the sand
dollars from here.  So beautiful, delicate
and perfect.    

           Gotta smile -- we're lovin the ride!