Since my last post, Cindy and I spent a few days in Boston visiting our youngest daughter, Mariah. I flew home this past Saturday, while my wife flew on to Akron, OH, to be with family. I’ve been home alone for the past week. I’ve survived influenza (although, in my mind, the outcome was in doubt). Four days of fevers, chills, and achiness while I worked 27 hours in the emergency department has left me slightly weakened. Missing the woman who makes my life complete and worthwhile has weakened me further.

Otherwise, life aboard Beatitude continues. I’ve lacked both motivation and health to get much accomplished on our boat during the last week. I’ve attempted to pass the time as best I can. I’ve made a couple of trips to the beach, a trip to the Ringling Museum, watched Teaching Company courses on The Greatest Classical Piano Pieces and Photography, played a little ukelele, and did some reading. I look forward to worship tomorrow. Afterwards, I’m planning to go to the movie theater to watch the Royal Opera House’s presentation of La Traviata on the big screen.

Cindy rejoins me on Tuesday. Until then, here are some random photos of the past few days…

Beatitude to the left with our neighboring catamaran, Enchanted, to the right.

Even the sunset refuses to reveal its full glory with Cindy gone

Colorful Creature

My feet in the sand at Siesta Key

Foraging in the Surf

Bean Point, Anna Maria Island

The Gulls (sometimes joined by the Pelicans) play a version of king of the hill on the pilings next to our boat. One gull (the King) establishes his place atop the piling. Other gulls approach from behind. At times, the King’s squawking and threats fend off the usurper. At times, the usurpation is successful.

The King has been Dethroned

The sun sets behind Beatitude