After squeezing out of the Marina Del Rey slip like a bad zit, we headed for the small town of Avalon on Catalina Island. Avalon has been the playground of the Rich and Famous for decades, and we were determined to show them how the Poor and Unknown do things.

Nancy spoke of the USCG boarding, so I won't. What I will speak of is how Avalon is NOT the place to be during a southerly storm. The entire California coast was hit by an "unseasonable" weather system, during which thunder, lightening, flash-floods, and water-spouts (!) were all forecast. I know they were forecast, because I was listening to the forecast in the cockpit...at 2 am this morning. We were bouncing around pretty good on our mooring ball, and I wanted to be close to the action in case we, or anyone close by, broke loose. In the end all was fine, though I did witness several close-calls and a few good saves.

So, today is Friday, September 21st. Not only is it my folks' anniversary (Happy Anniversary, Mom and Dad), but it is also Madeleine's 8th Birthday. Though its still a bit snotty outside, we'll go to shore in a bit to grab a bite, and play miniature golf. After that, back to Meridian for cake and presents. She's been looking forward to her b-day for weeks (who doesn't?), and we're not about to let a few water-spouts ruin her fun.