s/v Lastdance at Town Creek Marina

3 March – I spent several days with my daughter-in-law and grandkids this past week and also loaded stores and did boat chores in preparation for my voyage north. The engine problem we experienced last week turned out to be a broken ground wire. The break was at the terminal connector and not easily seen but after an hour of trouble-shooting, Eric, the able electrician at Town Creek Marina had me running as good as new…I hope!

   It’s now late Sunday afternoon and it’s been blowing 27 knots for two days with no end in sight. Michelle was here with my grandkids as well as her friend Lara and her baby. Along with Teresa, we had a great farewell meal at FishTales restaurant here at the marina. After a heartfelt goodbye with my family, Teresa stayed on a while longer but she just left to drive home to Raleigh. Now, I’m sitting here aboard Lastdance, sipping on some Goslings rum while surveying Town Creek and contemplating the last six months of my life here in Beaufort.

   There have been many changes to be sure. I am firmly embedded in the lives and collective memory of my grandchildren, and they in mine...I’m going to miss them big time but I plan on visiting them often during my summer visits to Raleigh. Also, six months ago I didn’t think I would even date again but I met Teresa, a wonderful woman with a keen sense of adventure and I fell in love.

   My bout of thyroid cancer was not even a skirmish compared to the battle Carol waged but I’ve had to deal with it. If nothing else, it’s a sobering a reminder that the clock is ticking and I simply cannot squander what time I have left. Still, no matter how good things seem emotionally, it’s always a struggle to move forward.

4 March – It occurred to me during the night that I’m paid up here at Town Creek Marina through May 10^th. So why am I leaving to go just 68 miles to Belhaven where I’ll be leaving Lastdance for 6 days at what will be an additional cost of $447, while I go to Raleigh to Teresa’s daughter’s graduation…Duh, it looks like Beaufort will be blessed with Lastdance’s presence yet another week.

   Sailboat Bill arrived in Lake Worth yesterday after a 3 day passage from Ragged Key and will be sailing up the coast in a few days. We may hook up here when I get back from Raleigh but more likely will connect back on Chesapeake Bay. Sail on, Bill.