There’s a favorite song of mine that dates back to our KKSF smooth jazz radio days in The Bay Area, the title of which is “90 Degrees in the Shade.” I’ve had it in my head a lot lately, with the heat index in the high 90’s for the past several days and lows in the low 80’s at night. When we get weather like this at home in NC, we start thinking about hurricanes, and with hurricane season approaching, we are checking the weather several times a day to figure out when we can start heading north from here. Right now, it looks like we will leave Marathon on May 1. That should be a day of good fortune, being daughter Christine’s birthday.
In the meantime, each day brings certain boat chores and projects, the latest being the repair of our small dinghy motor (the big motor was also being temperamental and is now stored up on the stern rail mount). The replacement for the suspected faulty part is supposed to be delivered on Tuesday, so hopefully we’ll get in a few more sunset dinghy rides before we depart. We’ll be busy with reprovisioning and laundry this coming week, also. We did walk over to the produce mini-market at the gas dock the other day and returned to the boat with what you see below (plus eggs).
Our cruising buddies Diane, Bob, Jane, and David made it out of the Bahamas and are now north of Stuart, FL, enjoying some much needed rest after plowing through 8-10 ft. waves towards the end of their crossing. They have found coronavirus precautions to be a lot “looser” where they are now, which is a concern of ours. I firmly believe The Keys have done it right, with roadblocks into the islands, vacation rentals closed up (they have also arrested several violators who have rented out their properties through AirBNB), and plans to remain closed to tourists through the end of May. As we head north, we plan to anchor each night, with stops at marinas only for fuel or if a storm looks imminent. Most marinas are now open, with strict regulations on distancing and getting off of your boat. These upcoming 1,000+ miles will be like none other in our many years of cruising. We’ll be updating frequently during our travels.
Marty & Doug's Travels 
So glad you are continuing to be cautious and optimistic about travel plans. We miss you and look forward to you being home.
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Thank you!! If I could hold my breath the whole way, I would surely do so. ☺♥️
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Prayers for safe travels as you start home. I guess you have heard that Gov. Cooper has extended his”stay at home” order until May 8 & public schools will not reopen this school year. Remote learning continues until last day of school. Went to Lowe’s today–parking lot was full. Wore a mask & stayed at least 6 feet away from anyone. Take care!
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Thanks, Laurie! Glad you are taking precautions outside. Stay healthy and safe.
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We’ll be watching your posts closely to make sure you’re safe!
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Thanks, Betsy and Bob. Glad there’s a little bit of you with us as we travel. ☺♥️
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Hi Marty and Doug. Thank you so much for your concern and support during my trials here. We enjoy hearing of your adventures and will keep you in our thoughts and prayers as you travel north. Do you have any clue as to how long the trip will be? 1000 miles sounds so far to me. One day at a time. We had hoped to see you in Vero Beach but as you said this will not be the more usual trip. So we will see. Perhaps our next visit will be NC. God speed and always our love.
Kathie and charlie
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Thank you so much, Kathie and Charlie! Please keep us updated on news from your side. Yes, one day at a time for all of us. ♥️
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It is always good to see and hear of your travels even though you have been in 1 place you have made the most of your trip. Look forward to seeing more pictures on your return trip to North Carolina. Prayers and thoughts of safe and enjoyable return travels. 💗☀️🐬🐠⛵
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Thanks, Pam. We are on the fast track to get home – definitely a different sort of trip this time. Hope to see you soon. ☺
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