Ancient Tree and Slave Bell at Cocoa Processing Plant

July 8

Holy guacamole! You try to eschew socializing to concentrate on boat prep for imminent hauling and, like Michael Corleone in Godfather III says, "they pull me back in". Went to Clark's Court Bay Marina for Wednesday burger night and had physiology threatening special "make that with cheese, please, heavy on the fries". Met several new people and reacquainted with old friends. Also may have had a rum punch, possibly two after day bereft of sustenance. Agreed on a tour in the morning to, among other places, a chocolate factory and a river at which rafting, I'm told, will occur.

Here's the rationale: Rebuilt water system manifold yesterday (no untoward effects, to date). Cleaned dinghy on the beach and pickled watermaker today. Sunday is the weather window for Trinidad, so three days are available to clean bottom. Screw-off window opened for tomorrow and when a wind opens, you have to go with it. Of course Friday is the fish fry and then Saturday... well, like Scarlet O'Hara, I will worry abut that tomorrow, for tomorrow... (cliche deleted).

Prickly Bay is rolly, but I'm tucked close to eastern shore by marina for decent ride. Dolphins Mike & Barb on Astarte have found some protection behind a reef... reef relief. They will head west this weekend as I head south. Am considering heading toward Panama, instead of back into Eastern Caribbean, next season for reunion with many friends heading into the Pacific. "If it's going to happen, it'll happen out there". Captain Ron, a role model for us all.

Jack