Long, long ago in a world far, far away there was a frog – not unlike another frog we saw this morning. We once lived in Ramona, CA when our children were still young. We loved it. We had lots of animals; dogs, cats, horses, chickens, a cow named Buster, rabbits, ducks, (even a mean one that wound up on the table for Thanksgiving dinner) but this is about the smallest pet we ever had. Liana had a frog.
Our bathroom was on the north side of the house. There was an elephant plant outside the window with leaves as big as umbrellas. In this plant lived a little green frog who would visit our bathroom every morning. Liana would leave the window open just enough so the little frog could come and go as it pleased. Liana kept a soap dish clean and upside down with a hole just big enough for her frog. Every morning as she did her hair and makeup she would talk with this little green guy.
This morning we got up early and the water was still and smooth hardly a breath of wind. We were preparing to get underway today. We have been in St. Augustine a month and it’s time to move north for hurricane season. As I walked up on deck a little green frog just like the one in Ramona showed up while I was dumping out some cold coffee. He jumped on the cup I was using so I brought him down to meet Liana. She got a little sentimental remembering her old friend from years gone by. My guess is he has lived on board for awhile. After his visit he hopped on one of the sheet lines with his sticky feet and went back to wherever he has been residing. So, I guess we have a new crew member. I hope he likes mosquitos and no-see-ums! Just saying… each crew member has to pull their own weight around here, no free loaders.
Last night we had some new friends over to visit – Wade and Tracy. Wade made a video of our boat for us using his drone . He called me up a few days ago and asked if we would like one, so we made a morning of shooting some pictures of Silhouette at anchor from the town dock. Wade has been flying remote control air craft for years and he even has his own photography studio. We met Wade a few months back while we were looking for some extra scuba tanks on Craig’s List. Wade said he had dreamed of one day seeing the world by boat but time for that had passed. Life has a way of changing course sometimes. So after their visit to Silhouette they took us out to dinner at Harry’s right on the waterfront. Harry’s is a great place to eat. We talked about life and kids and our love for the Lord. It was a truly wonderful evening. There is just something about getting together with other Christians. Even though we had known them just a short time it’s like visiting with old friends. I am pretty sure that’s the way it’s going to be in heaven. I guess the saying is true, ” A stranger is only a friend you have not met yet.” Wade and Tracy thanks for a wonderful evening! I am sure we will see you again.
We are now at sea on the Atlantic. The sails are full, the engine is off and the only sound is the water slipping by and our flag flapping in the breeze. Silhouette is back in her element doing what she was made for. Feeling the power of wind in the sails is a truly awesome thing! We are not burning diesel, no noise, but with 16 knots of wind we are heading north at six knots. What a feeling of freedom!
I feel bad sometimes that Silhouette does not get to stretch out her sails more often. It’s like a dog on a leash in the yard that just wants to go for a run. For now Silhouette can run with the wind! We are going to sail north as long as the wind and weather allows. Thank you Lord for good friends and a wonderful few days at sea.
Drone view of Silhouette courtesy of our new friends Wade & Tracy
I sure am enjoying the ride, albeit as an engaged follower. I am so happy for you guys, I hope to convince Kathy to let us come and visit. Be safe, and sail well.
Continued Blessings,
Jeff B.
Rats! Wish I knew you were in St Augustine for a month. We could have come visit you. We drive up there often (from Orlando) to spend the day.