Well, we made it. We are safe and sound in Vero Beach at the Municipal Marina. It is located behind an island and all the boats are at moorings. We are in a wonderful spot, safe from nasty, stormy weather (I hope), and today is the first day since sometime in Sept. when I put on a pair of shorts and a T shirt. We had some rain on the way but when we arrived the sun was out and the sky was clear blue. I took the best shower since leaving home and can do that every day!!!!! Oh the little pleasures. Also great laundry facilities, picnic areas, and the best is a free bus service to the malls, groceries, restaurants, and of course West Marine (Bill's favorite store). We will start exploring tomorrow. In addition, right in front of us, on land, is a dog park and Simon has made many friends even though most are without leash and he has a leash there didn't seem to be any discrimination.
But the best part of this trip was on Monday when a pair of porpoises passed by the bow and decided to play in our bow waves. I was hanging over the rail (Bill later told me he was very worried that I was going over the side) and they stayed with the boat for about 5 minutes. The pictures didn't come out great but I was thoroughly entranced by the sight of them cavorting around the boat.
There is a sign up sheet for those of us who wish to share a Thanksgiving Dinner and I've been told that most people do come and bring a pot luck something.
It seems that my cousin Sandi and my friend Tara are both going to be out of town so I am very happy that they are organizing this dinner. We have already had many initial contacts with other travelers and are gaining much information about the Bahamas, Keys, etc. We still don't know how the rest of the winter will be spent but there are several wonderful options.