Coconut Grove, Florida

Friends, Forgive the absence of communication from the Natie M.  I have been busy with the holidays at my Mom's place and also doing some last minute upgrades on the boat.  I plan on writing about my time in sunny Florida later on.  As I intended I departed Ft Lauderdale on December 26 in the company of my dear friend Christina, who was able to join me for a couple of weeks vacation, with the intention of making for Bimini as soon as the weather allowed a safe and comfortable passage across the Gulf Stream.  Alas, the desired weather conditions did not materialize once arriving at the jump off point on Key Biscayne.  As and altenate sail plan we've been sailing some remote areas of the northern Keys, just south of Miami.  The past couple of days weather reports are now forcasting a possible window starting tomorrow morning, so even though a little frustrated at how long it has taken to get offshore, its looking promising for a crossing tomorrow morning at 2-3 am.  It was time for Christina to return home today and we made the rendevous with her son here in Coconut Grove.  She was a great companion and shipmate.  Gonna have to get used to being by myself again, but will be busy with some last minute preparations to make and some sleep before making the jump.  I will be catching up with the log as soon as I get to the Bahamas and more consistantly afterwards. Hope everyone had a great holiday and thanks for your words of support.  The voyage begins.  Mark