Contrast

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The winter of 2008/9 was 'memorable' for us as we completed the final preparations for our long awaited trip. Our choices were few. We tried to save our boat from being locked in to a potentially unstable marina. Instead, we chose to be almost locked in to the ice by unprecedented cold and snow at a stable marina. Frank's unbelievable ice patrol was the outcome for many months.


Contrast Frank... same time next year, in the dinghy at Vero Beach City Marina, making a template for anchor roller modifications. The sun was pretty bright so Ginger had to wear her UV shades while she supervised the project.


Any questions about our choices and state of mind? Yeah, well okay... the water bowl was frozen a week ago so we're not giving our long johns away and Ginger's not ready for her summer, schnauzer cut yet.

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Photos

MELODEON on ice
This time last year... 2008/9

Frank on patrol
Nightly vigilance, checking the ice fans and heaters.

Frank designing rolllers
Same time next year: Winter 2009/10

Ginger in shades
Keeping an eye on Frank's project.

Comments

[Dorothy]

Good Choice
Great shots! We understand and support your choice. Love the supervisor in shades! Keep the photos coming.

[Elizabeth]

So what's your point?
You guys look lovely and warm - is that a movie star dog? can i have her paw print? We on the other hand are in Montreal, weather is behaving - didn't have to plug in the truck (I hope ...) and have finally reconnected with our email, thank goodness - has been a little grim in that department the last week! Love you! Eliz

[Ruth on svwitchcraft]

catching up
Are you still in Vero Beach. We liked it there. There are lots of cool places ahead of you. Have you decided where to make your crossing from yet? Take care Ruth and Mark SV Witchcraft www.mytb.org/svwitchcraft

[MELODEON]

Witchcraft
Hi Ruth and Mark Yup, we're still here at 'ole Velcro. We're going to get hauled out to paint the bottom so we're trying to choose a boatyard. Any suggestions? Where are you now? ILost track of your blog. C/F

[Mike Moore]

Sunny Days
I like the shades on Ginger. We are with friends in Palm Beach area 'til 28 Jan. Have enjoyed the weather. Spent the last week in Orlando. Been wondering how it has been going with you three. We will have to get back to reality next week... but the sun is gaining more power in the north and we are chaged to deal with what is left with winter... been pretty good so far compared to last year. Cheers, Mike

[MELODEON]

Mike
Thanks for your call. So near and yet so far. Hope you and Marilyn and your friends can find a few hours to come see us at this gorgeous, friendly marina in Vero Beach before you head back. Visits from 'home' are a rare and precious events for us. Cheers, CFG

[Lin Cory]

email returned from Yahoo
Hi Chris I tried to respond to your email regarding mentor and Florida but it came back - no customer at Yahoo The boat looks beautiful in snow!

[Wayne]

Bon Voyage
A friend at work told me about your journey. I am glad now that I told him to email me the blog site. I have never before "blogged" but this is a great adventure to be part of...even if vicariously

[Kathryn]

Oh my gawd!
Hi Chris and Frank, What a horrid thought -- all that ice! If you read my latest and last travel blog, you'll know that I'm now home, having arrived to frozen pipes and likely the need for a new pump and tank. My trip was wonderful and I have a dark tan to show for it. Next year, I'm going to save to go to Cuba in February with my writing group and hope that if I can get enough money together that you'll be in the vicinity and I can sail with you for a week before flying home. Something to dream about. Take care of each other...and in your next blog there are kudos to drs and new friends. What happened to Frank? Hope all is well now. Love, K.

[jude]

memories they say are made of this...i bet the ones you are making in warmer climes are easier to live with . stay warm and cosy Jude