Friday December 17th 2010

Happy Holidays! Just a quick update. We spent most of the last week in Vero Beach, Florida, riding out the cold weather front that came through. Got down to 27 degrees for 2 nights, highs in the mid 50’s. We were on a mooring ball, so had to use a small propane heater, and lots of blankets at night. This is central Florida??

Vero Beach was very cruiser friendly, and we did enjoy our time there. There were a lot of people to get information from about the Bahamas, and for Dave to talk to about mechanical issues. The city also has a very good, free bus service that allows you to get to the ocean, and to the downtown area for almost any retail store you could need.

By Wednesday the 15th, the temperature warmed up just enough, so we left Vero Beach and headed for Fort Pierce. We decided that the boat needs new batteries before we cross to the Bahamas, so we have arranged to have them put in while we are here. It will take a few days. In the meantime, the temps are back up in the 70’s, and it may even hit 80 tomorrow. We are staying in a marina, and they are having a holiday potluck Saturday evening, with live music and smoked hams. Sounds like it could be fun!

As soon as the new batteries are in, and the weather is right, we will head on down the coast to Miami. In the meantime, we are preparing for Christmas. The cards have been mailed, packages have been sent, and all of the shopping is done. I’ve never been ready for the holidays a week before!! In fact, we won’t celebrate Christmas until the 29th, when Austin and Cindy will be with us, so I’m really ahead.

I hope all of your holiday preparations are going along as scheduled. If you don’t hear from us again before the big day, have a fabulous Christmas!!

Love & Hugs,

The Admiral