Wednesday, April 2, 2014 – 3 PM – Leg 3/Part 1/Day 3 of The Great Loop – 18.1 Miles

Woke up this morning to a light rain and proceeded to check the forecast. Having determined that is was not going to be an issue traveling, it was off to the races as it were on Day 3 of The Great Blessing which is what it shall now be called. It is decided that no matter the outcome for the service on the boat, staying in the St. Lucie area for the night was the plan. So that afforded some extra time to relax a little bit and read while listening to the gentle rain tap tapping on the deck. The rain burned off early and the travel up to St. Lucie was uneventful.

Arrived at Hinkley Yacht Services and they were very friendly and helpful. Pulled in around 10:30 and it was no more than 10 minutes before they were wrenching away. They were kind enough to taxi me across the little bay to Finz Waterfront Grill where a delicious lunch ensued and ESPN was on the TV. In the past, I used to be such a sports nut, but nowadays I still enjoy watching when it's around, but I would much rather be sight-seeing life.

This is a completely different looking boat without the mast, almost appears toy-like. The goal is to make it all the way around the great loop and then pick it back up here on my way down to the Caribbean where sailing is expected to be the main motor power. But by golly-gosh, it looks like a toy racing boat. Vroom-vroom.

I took the time to call Preston and told him of the schedule. Preston, Jesse, and Colin are going to come aboard and the hope is to have them out on Sunday. It may get a little crowded, but to finally get to meet my nephew, it will be well worth it. So even if there is extra travel to make that visit happen, it will be Titusville by Saturday night.  So, the boat is gassed up and ready to go offshore to spend the rest of the day. It'll be an early start tomorrow to push on with this adventure.

God, please give my family the peace of mind to stop and be thankful for all your bountiful blessings.