We have been in Nettles Island since Thanksgiving. Our laid back days here consist of walks on the beach, lying by the pool, happy hour at the tiki hut, playing cards, dominoes and dinners with friends, old and new. We've had some crazy weather with no good weather windows since arriving. Our plans are developing for leaving Nettles in January and heading South to the Miami area. The plan is to wait for a weather window to either cross over to the Bahamas or head to the Keys. One thing I've learned so far is that you have to be flexible and have a plan B. Our friends Don and Judy, on Nemo will buddy boat with us. They have a daughter getting married in April so this will dictate their decisions about leaving the U.S.

I jumped from one Island to another. When our plans developed for a January passage, I decided to jump ship, just for a little while. I flew from Nettles Island to St. Thomas to visit my daughter Heather. We had a fabulous week together. She showed me some new places and we visited old favorites. I met her new friends. I was so impressed with these young people making their own way in the world and enjoying life! They welcomed me and included me in on their fun. We hit their favorite happy hours after work, played card games at their homes, and enjoyed meals together. I should also mention the locals. They are so warm and friendly. Very spiritual people. Of course, Heather has made friends with them too. She's just like her Dad, never met a stranger. They all love Heather too and say "she is so beautiful and she gives good vibes". I hung out with Heather at work. She teaches sailing on the beach at the Ritz Carlton. I enjoyed sailing Hobie waves, kayaking, snorkeling, attempting to paddle board and relaxing on the beach. We took a day trip to Virgin Gorda on one of her company boats where we snorkeled, enjoyed a delicious lunch at the top of the Baths and drank "nilla killas"( a new twist on the famous pain killer) all the way back to St. John. We shared memories of our family charter in the BVI's when Heather was little and we made many new memories. I was sad to leave Heather, but excited to fly to Richmond to see my daughter Holly. Holly and I spent Christmas with my sister and her family and we"face timed" Heather. I enjoyed my week in Richmond and was sad to leave Holly, but excited to return to Carl ( and Perceptions) in Florida to continue our journey. Holly left the day after I did to fly to St. Thomas to visit her sister. I know they will have a great time! I returned to Nettles Island in time for New Years eve. Can't wait to get to the next island!