One of the intriguing things about going cruising is the possibility of meeting new people. While I was planning my cruise I heard over and over from former cruisers of how many people they had met and become friends with. As I begin my slow return to San Diego I often think of not only all of the places I've been, but also of all of the people I've met. I had expected to meet plenty of other cruisers, and I have. I guess I never really thought about how many others I would come in contact and become friends with. Some of the most enjoyable people which I've gotten to know are the local folks. There are the families that run the local tiendas, the owners and their employees of the restaurants and bars, the marina personal, the list goes on and on. Of course there are also fellow cruisers, some are people you meet once share stories with, then never see again, even though you're both going in the same direction. There are others whom you become good friends with and enjoy time and adventures together.
The bad part of all this is that many times when you weigh anchor (or untie dock lines), you never see them again. Often times you may think you'll cross paths, but for whatever reason you never do.
My last day in La Cruz as I was thinking about what I had to do to get ready to leave, who should should pull up in their dinghy but Verdo and Gaby from S/V Larrikin (pic), whom I hadn't seen in almost a year. We went out for dinner and were joined by a former (and possible future) crew member Beth, who I also hadn't seen for a few years. there were several others that joined us that night that I had also known from past years of cruising.
As I write this I'm left wondering about the many folks that I haven't seen for so long, I wonder how the Family that runs the tienda in San Carlos is doing, where S/V Sol Seeker is and how they are, whether I'll ever see Alex and Oliver from the Huanacaxtle Cafe again, and when will I see Jim and Linda on S/V Liebling next.
San Diego is still several months away, so it gives me some time to reacquaint with old friends.....and to meet more new friends.
I am currently in Paradise Village Marina where I'll be until the middle of February.