November 6th, Thursday Cumberland Island, GA

Happy Birthday Debbie!

We left Charleston shortly after 6 a.m. and headed for Florida where we hope it will be warmer. This has been a chilly year. We sailed nicely for about four hours and then the wind died. We actually had anticipated motoring all the way, so this was a pleasant surprise. The rest of the way was flat and easy. We arrived in Fernandina about 7 a.m. for fuel and were anchored at Cumberland Island by 9:30.

We took showers and Mike tried to sleep, as he did not really sleep last night. He had opportunities, just couldn't sleep. I don't think he slept today either, so I finally did the dishes and we got the dinghy down, put the motor on and went to pick up Kim and Steve for some exploring of the park.

We walked across the island through the live oaks with the beautiful hanging Spanish moss, to the ocean side and walked on the beach. It was a warm, sunny day for a change and people were on the beach enjoying the sunshine. We saw lots of shells and I am proud to say I did not pick up one. We have too many shells on the boat already.

We went for a dinghy ride along the side of the island after our hike and then invited Steve and Kim for dinner. We had Steve's fabulous steak tartar, Kim's wonderful salad and Mike's fabulous ribs. We had a nice time and again ended the evening early as we are all tired and are leaving for Fort Pierce at first light tomorrow-a 30-some hour trip. Then Mike and I will rest in Vero Beach, FL for almost a month. Whew-this has been a quick trip.

And yes, we know there's a hurricane out there. We are big weather-watchers.