Just before we left Grenada we got together with a bunch of sailing friends for pizza at Big Fish on August 15. While there, our friends surprised Jim by making the evening an opportunity to give him an extra thank-you for his help along the way.....

Jim and Marlene, crew of Blue Heaven, wrote a song for Jim and sang it that evening:

AN ODE TO JIM (to the sound of an old sea chanty)

Jim Jim its always him, who's quick with a smile or to help you a while
When your mind's in a bend he is such a great friend
He's a sailing buddy that's not after your money
He's eager to please as they sail Emerald Seas
A gold star on his jacket aboard their Island Packet
You're so happy you've got um when he's cleaning your bottom
He's quick with a wink or to change out your zinc
Jim Jim it's always him, that puts a smile on your face
and makes us glad to be in the human race
He is quick with a quip that brings a laugh to your lip
We love our Jim and when he's not here we really miss him
Jim Jim it's always him, so we made up this song
hoping he won't be gone long
While we go thru these phases singing his praises
What makes him so hotta is that hes got Renate

And a poem written by our sailing buddies, Terry and Barb, on Wind Whisperer

WHAT'S THE REAL DEAL?
From the bottom of the bilge
To the top of the mast
Jim is always there to assist
Neva needing to be asked

So methodical and capable
he'll figure things out
A generator or windlass
Jim knows what boats are about

Snorkelling and diving
have just been the best,
Without Jim and Renate
the fun will be less

Soon Jim and Renate
will be gone until October
Wind Whisperer, Absaroque and Blue Heaven
hope no systems go asunder

Words can't express our gratitude to Jim
for his friendship and help
He's the real deal
and that's how we feel!

Wow! What wonderful friends we have! They too deserve a huge thank-you for all their help and advice generously given along the way! Cruisers help out each other whenever possible- makes for a great basis of friendship.

Jim & Renate