November 8 we had a short day, it took 2 hours and 39 minutes to travel from our secluded anchorage to Emerald Coast Marina, Niceville, Florida. This deep water marina is located near Destin and we were able to connect with Lesa and Carl Klein from Ste. Genevieve! Carl picked us up in the afternoon and we were able to see their beautiful home in Santa Rosa Beach and have dinner with them at a local restaurant, “Blue Mabel Smokehouse and Provisions”, the food, atmosphere and company were second to none! Carl and Lesa accompanied us the next day on the boat from Destin to Panama City. We did have Strongs winds pre hurricane Nicole and some waves while in the Bay. The water calmed down in the intercostal.
Emerald Coast Marina! Wonderful amenities! I spent a few hours relaxing by the pool and hot tub!
Sunset on the porch at Lesa and Carl’s beautiful home!
Lesa has opened a new studio, “Yoga Bar”, a wonderful place for health, wellness, building community and healing!
We got into the marina in Panama City November 9, our .intentions were to stay one night and move forward to explore other coastal areas, specifically Apalachicola….However, Hurricane Nicole and King Neptune had other plans. We stayed in Panama City until November 12, due to the weather. We did meet a fun couple, other loopers, Mitch and Ann. We walked in the rain to “Gene’s Oyster Bar” and I had my first raw oyster!
We decided to tour Panama City Beach since we could not cruise. No small task, had to figure out bus schedule and ride our bikes to the bus station. The city bus was quite interesting, several homeless individuals decided to help us and became our tour guides. It was interesting to see their senses of community with each other. One lady swept the bus at the stop. Everyone needs a sense of purpose. I was grateful to have a home and shower and electricity.
The Blue Angel’s air show was over the weekend in Pensacola. We missed it but our friend Ann sent us the picture.
We were able to leave Panama City on November 12. We had calm waters on the intercoastal but still rolling waves out in the bays. We anchored out with our new friends Ann and Mitch. A very large alligator apparently lived at our anchorage and watched our boat all evening. Mitch and Ann were brave enough to come over by dinghy and we had happy hour and dinner on No Agenda.
A glimpse at what is going on back home!!!!
Looks like the medical staff had a great time at the Fall Gala!
My dear friend Jean is recovering from her fractures, keep her in your prayers! She is a jewel!
