This is a quick update with a story or two.

First of all - kudos to Cap'n Jim who has been single handing Madcap for two days now. He traveled about 50 miles through the ICW on Saturday, has anchored twice and is now enjoying the sights and sounds of St Augustine, FL. Tomorrow he heads on toward Daytona Beach.

I suspect he has wonderful stories to tell of his stay in Fernandina Beach - of Thanksgiving Day and Mary's Birthday celebrations in the fine company of local hosts, Steve and Sandi, and a rousing group of other sailors.

I have been spending quality time with my Mum in the Moncton (NB) City Hospital and with Dad in Amherst, NS. I am so very glad I came back because every moment I've spent here feels just right. Mum is continuing to improve. The bypass on her leg has taken so she has circulation again in her foot, her appetite is coming back and we hope she will be able to move to the Amherst hospital this week, and then home within another few days. It has been good to share the care and planning with Dad, as he decides on how best to continue his care of Mum.

The marvelous synchronicities we have been discovering continue here. Mum's hospital room mate, Val, and her husband Ned, have friends in Baie Verte, NB who are wending their way south. Those of you who have been reading this blog for a while now will be nodding your heads already. Yes indeed - the friends are Sally and Steve of Sea Duck. It was such fun to be able to tell them that I not only know of their friends, Jim and I enjoyed their hospitality just this past Tuesday in Fernandina Beach.

I have also been able to hang out a bit with Mary Beth and her friends. It has been a delight since they have such enthusiasm and energy for life. They have some important things figured out: the treasure of dear friendships, clearly defined personal values, the ability to stretch and push themselves, and a great capacity for laughter. It kind of reminds me of our sailing community!

Thanks again to readers, fellow travelers and well-wishers. Your support warms our hearts - and at least one of us is warm on the outside too. The other one is f-f-f-freezing!