Just a quick note to let you know where I am and where I am going. Arrived in Ft. Lauderdale yesterday at 1230 and made my usual trip to a West Marine and met a sailor there (the store manager) named Bill. He was fabulous in terms of helping me order some parts I have been looking for, pointing out some good anchorages near Miami, and helping me find a place to do laundry. More good people!

Ft. Lauderdale calls itself the yacht capital of the world, and I believe it. I have never seen so many yachts, and many mega yachts. Missed a photo op of one with a helicopter on the back - unbelievable!

On my way to Miami today, and will leave early so I can find a good place to anchor. Plan to be there through Sunday. Nikki flies in Saturday afternoon at 1530. I can't wait to see her again. It was 15 Jan. when we said goodbye. She will be with me until 4 Mar. We are headed to the Keys Monday, and if all works out, will be in Key West before she has to fly back to VT. One of the first things we will have to do is hit the grocery store. She won't be impressed with my pantry, and given her propensity to be a gourmet cook, we will need a few things.