By now you may have seen the U-Tube video of our fabulous afternoon taking in the joys of Long Island's Inaugural Annual Mutton Fest; a three day extravaganza of Long Island produce and crafts, cooking competitions, sea food preparation, livestock judging and Rake N' Scrape music.
Our week on Long Island was a huge treat because our great new "buddy boat" friends Bruce and Cathy on Serenade introduced us to their long time friend from teaching days; John Cotton who retired to Dead Man's Cay on Long Island with his Jamaican born wife Doreth. Before we could blink, John and Doreth had opened their home up to us as well. They let us have hot showers, internet, the use of their laundry machines, a truck to drive all over the island, produce from their garden, water for our tanks, beer like it was water and several amazing home cooked meals. John drove us to explore Chimney Rock and Dean's Blue Hole (see next entry) and personally guided us down his secret path to a beautiful, hidden cove. Their unbridled hospitality and friendship will make our stay on Long Island one we will remember forever. One day, when we settle down we hope to return their kindness to us.

It is easy to be depressed over world events and politics, but if we have learned anything from our travels over this year and a quarter, it is that most ordinary people are good and want to share their pride of home, and country. They work hard to feed and house their families and are unflinchingly generous with what they have to strangers like us who are just passing through. It is inspiring and humbling and makes the experience of travel rich with unforgettable memories.