Where in the World???: I Tarzan

So today is day five and it turns out that the "ruby dawns" wifi connection is a little more difficult to use than I had hoped for, so sorry about the slow updates. Well anywho, we awoke this morning and ate breakfast, then dinghy'd in to shore to the world renouned 'Bitter End' yacht club. While the others looked around at the shops I tried to find a wifi signal. After we finished up onshore we made our way back to the ship, raised sails and headed out of the sound with mosquito rock at our back and open waters ahead. Twas an amazing day for a sail. We had about 20-22 knots of wind with 6-7 foot swells! Amy was our captain and she was up for the challenge. The waves were taking us on our starboard side. Each swell would try to force the bow of the boat to come up into the wind and off of our chosen course. It requires quick concise action to be able to keep us on a steady heading, reacting to every will that the sea was trying to impose on us. Fortunately for us, Amy was more than up for the challenge! Mike gave us all a quick description of the needed adjustments and Amy got the hang of it in smart fashion. We then all took turns on the helm, giving others a chance to experience the true willings of the Caribbean. I was fortunate enough to have had prior experience with these conditions, so I was longingly looking forward to my opportunity. We sailed on a beam reach point of sail with great speed. We hit 9.5 knots/hr at one point (our current speed record for this trip)!! Just as we did two years ago, we kept a keen eye out for Anegada, as it is a true danger with its extensive coral reef system. We found the red and green buoys that formed the gateway to our anchorage. Amy threaded the needle as she expertly navigated the entrance. We then turned bow into the wind and dropped anchor. We made such good time that we had the whole afternoon to relax, tan, swim, snorkel or just whatever. Having personally resolved that I would not need a vacation after my vacation, I grabbed my beach towel, iPhone n buds, laid on deck and commenced bronzing to Jack Johnson's greatest hits.. It was nice, real chill :) Mike invited the crew of the Ruby dawn over for Tarzan rope and appetizers before dinner ashore. They arrived about 430. Mike and I brought the spare main halyard from the port to starboard side, then I tied figure eight and bowline knots in the end of the line. Mike then demonstrated and we all followed with our best interpretations the famous "ayyyayAyayayayayahhaaa!!" Most of our crew gave it a try. Sean and Kevin made good showings for ruby dawn, but try as we might we couldnt get Whitney and Mary Beth to give it a swing. Maybe next time... We enjoyed company and apps as the sun set slowly on the western horizon, dipping gradually into the ocean.

Our guests then went back to the ruby dawn to freshen up and get ready for dinner ashore. As i was stowing some stuff before we left for dinner, Mike paid me a very kind compliment. I'm not sure if it was the rum pain killers talkin or what?!?!? (just kiddin). I wouldn't spoil the compliment with too much detail, but he said i was a great young man with a purpose, and had so many other kind words i was about ready to blush...lol. I dont generally have a huge amount of respect for many people (outside of the common courtesies and dignities deserved by all) , but i do have alot of respect for Mike. So the compliment really meant alot coming from him. I wanted to put it in the blog, not to brag, but just so i wouldn't forget it . We had joint reservations for 7ish. The restaurant was right on the beach. Between the calming sounds of the waves of the ocean, and the beautiful lights, it has a great ambience. Before dinner we all talked and made some drinks in the bar of the restaurant, (this place let's you mix your own. Sweetness!!!!)

Our table was very long, seating 16 people in all. We enjoyed entertaining conversation, including Sue's infamous story about her encounter with Mr. Mexico, which has somehow oddly found a way into the inner recesses of my memory, I know I'll never forget it..even if I tried...lol ;) And Whitney made special request to make it into the blog so here you go Whit, your famous now! lol