CURRENT LOCATION: Anchored in Mosquito Cove, just outside Jolly Harbour in Antigua
17 04.612' N, 061 53.679' W

I often wonder how this experience will stand out in my memories several years from now. I can imagine a casual conversation at some dinner party in the future, where someone will ask, "So, what did you do with all that free time in the Caribbean?" They will be expecting tales of excitement from offshore passages, snorkeling encounters with all manner of incredible creatures, and endless hours of beachcombing. I know that they will be disappointed at my response, for the image which will immediately come to mind will inspire me to reply, "I opened and closed hatches."

That has been the epicenter of our existence over the past few days, as some squally weather has moved across Antigua. We have remained on the boat while a constant stream of rain showers has marched over us, the rain lasts for several minutes then halts to allow the sun to peak through and warm up the boat enough to force us to open the hatches in order to provide air movement below. As soon as we are seated, enjoying the fresh breeze, raindrops begin (again) to sprinkle down upon our living quarters. This cycle has repeated itself more times over the past two days than I can count.

The winds have been fierce, as well. Often blowing at better than 30 knots, it has kept us on the boat for the better part of this week. Trips to land would have been accompanied by a good saltwater soaking, and there was nothing much we needed that could encourage us to beat through the chop. Instead, we read, watched movies, and (of course) opened and closed hatches.

Just to let you know that the views out our portlights are not always a postcard event:





But even rain brings its own kind of natural beauty:




We look forward to an easing of the winds this weekend (and, hopefully, the rains as well), as we are considering moving further south. Of course, only time will eventually make this consideration a reality, so stay tuned.

TECHNICAL NOTE: Our internet booster appears to have given up on us for good. Therefore, our internet access from here forward is bound to be sporadic and quite limited. Please forgive any delays in e-mail responses and what may turn out to be less-than-frequent blog postings.