the crew of the good ship Gelena

This tan and rested group had just landed on the island of Grenada in March 1989. You might even spot your faithful correspondent and spouse in the toothsome lineup. The picture was taken in the little apartment we rented in the Blue Horizon's Garden Resort on the beach. This event would not be of immediate interest but for tomorrow's excursion down to Pescadero where five of the original Eastern Coastal sailors are vacationing. (We'll miss you, Joanie!) We are joining them for a couple of days of what is sure to be high hilarity and marvelous friendship.

In February, 1989 we flew to St. Lucia and met up with the other six. We had chartered a sailboat, The Gelena, for a 2-week sail down the Grenadine Islands from St. Lucia to Grenada, with stops at several islands along the way; St. Vincent, Bequia, Mustique, Canouan, Carriacou, the Tobago Cays, and finally to Grenada. We had on board a commercial pilot, a pilot/doctor, a lawyer, three therapists (one a sex therapist ~ always good to have in mixed company), a writer to tell the story and a pianist to set the whole thing to music. Five of the eight were experienced sailors/navigators, two had some time on the tiller, and one was a total novice. But all pitched in and kept the boat on top of the water. We ate, we drank, we swam, we snorkled, we shopped, we read, and most of all, we laughed. It's the BEST vacation I've ever had. We've talked from time to time about doing it again, but I don't think we could possibly recreate that adventure. The only thing that would be the same would be the laughter.

The easterners see each other frequently. It's only now that one couple's son has moved to the Bay Area and is a new father that they make the trip to California. And the others decided to come along this year. Goodie for us. The drill in the kitchen for such visits is that one couple/family/guest does at least one meal a day; spreads the work. So today I am cooking boeuf bourguignon for nine. We'll have it tomorrow evening, along with noodles, a green salad, and some Tuscan melons for dessert. I also made some slow-roasted cherry tomatoes for bruschetta as an appetizer. Oh, and wine, of course. The simmering stew is currently filling the house with a delicious scent.

NOTE: The mystery of the unnamed flower giver has been solved. Yesterday's mail brought a card from the flower company with a message from Jim's sisters. Donors ID'd. Thank you, Jane and Judy.