Johnny and Jeanette flew into Sint Maarten for a weeks reprieve from the snow and ice in the Northeast. Daniel and Menno picked them up from the airport in the dinghy! We had such a great time with them and instead of hearing all of the tales from me, I give you; "Cruising with The Baars' as seen through the eyes of Johnny and Jeanette"

February 20, 2007 (Tuesday) We arrive in Sint Maarten. The Island is divided into Dutch and French. We began our jouney on the Dutch side: Sint Maarten. We settle on board Eira which is anchored in Simpson Bay Lagoon along with MEGA yachts and catch up with the Baars Family. That evening we go to dinner at the SandBar, the marina for those mega yachts all of which are bigger than our home, with other cruisers. There we met our first set of "Lisa and Steve" and daughter Kelsey aboard the sailboat "Walk About." It was a fun evening for all. And, we learned what a good dingy driver Daniel is, he drove us all safely home at the end of the night!

Note-- if you view the photo album of our visit you will notice that Johnny is wearing a hat that has the word FOX on it. Johnny said that he told everyone at work he was going on vacation to "St. Somewhere" and they all said "Wear the FOX hat?" So he did!

February 21, 2007 (Wednesday) We wake up to lovely fresh bagettes (bread), fruit, and more for breakfast. Then it was time to experience the Island. We visited the market and beach in Phillipsburg a short bus (van) ride away for only $1 per person. Upon returning, there was provisioning the boat and checking out of customs and immigration to be done to prepare for our departure in the morning to St Barts. The bridge to the Lagoon only opens twice a day, so you have to be ready!

We learned what a great "dingy parter" John is, many of the dingy docks are very crowded and "parking" can be a bit difficult. John sits in the front of the dingy and will "part the dingies" for us inorder to make room for our landing! Menno grilled the Mahi-Mahi (the 4 foot one!!) he caught for dinner delicious!