Dawn Sun Rise on a Culebra Hill

I know rainy days aren't for everyone, but even when I was working every day I welcomed an all day of coolness; the rain, the grey skies. Because it doesn't happen very often around here, maybe it's the differentness of it. 

After, when the sun is out and the skies, especially in winter, are an indescribably clear tone of blue (though we've all tried to describe it), it never fails to amaze me how quickly the muddy roads, the splashy puddles, the diamond beads on leaves and grass are gone, poof! Plants grow extra fast with the magic water of rain, it's almost observable - the greening of the island, the buds turning to blossoms. A transformation, a show of Nature, all for free.

This morning's dawning and sunrise gave another show. I paid my ticket in early rising, dogs doing their yips of get up! It's walking time! and the grand running just because they could. I didn't run, but a walk to start the day is a very good thing, even without coffee first. I need to work on that plan. 

Have a tantalizing Tuesday. Do something thrilling. 

Lady of the Harbour

The sunrise yesterday was widely glorious. What else can I say about that? Nada.

Later in the afternoon, I was walking canines when the beauty below caught my eye. She was mentioned to me the other day, as perhaps an old Feadship. While for me, the newer Feadships don't ring any bells, push any buzzers or pass on any tingly thrills, the old ones warrant respect, a glimpse into a past when cruise ships meant white tie and gowns, something out of 1940's movies for most of the hoi polloi. While I champion underdogs (and far under represent the hoi-est of the polloi-est), I don't have to own beauty to appreciate it.

As a review in Yachting says, quite simply, two pros of a Feadship are thus: time tested and visually pleasing. The cons ring in at only one. Very expensive. The article puts the price of being in this rarified air on the sea as between "$495,000 (1964 86’ model) to $131 million (2009 214’ model)." I don't know what their latest ship built goes for...but I have a feeling it is beyond my pocketbook. I'd trade eggs for an old one though. 

Once upon a time I was a boat sitter on a 100' yacht in Fort Lauderdale, at the Bahia Mar marina. There were a few Feadships around, but only one struck my fancy, one I saw when we were both in the yard at the same time (yes, this 5 million dollar brand new boat was in the yard already - it wasn't my fault!! I only broke a wine glass, I swear) and I met the owners, who happened to be there as well. Not quite the same; they were visiting their boat for a weekend, down from Palm Beach, farther down from New York. I was living aboard caretaking. But as I say and believe, we were both where we wanted to be, despite our wallet count. Funny how that works.

The boat was old and so were the owners. Even in her vastness, there was an elegant simplicity that softly but strongly reeked of how to be rightly rich. Beautiful lines, simple, well made furnishings, glowing rugs of that slightly threadbare sort that whispers, you've kept me all these years, from that shining day in Morocco when I was new and you were young... The couple were gracious in a comfortable way, they as interested in my wandering gypsy stories as I was in their much longer and far more traveled years. The time passed quickly, the weekend waned. Their boat was still being
worked on when myself and the Italians (both ship and captain) headed back to the marina, where newer Feadships preened without pleasing me.

All of this came fluttering to mind yesterday, watching this ship re-anchoring farther out in the bay, perhaps preparing for an early leaving. They were still there this morning. I waved.

photo credit: William Kunke

On the other hand, I did not see the above boat leaving early this morning, but Bill did and recognized her from earlier posts. Farewell, tan-bark sailed, nicely built sailboat, I hardly knew ye! Thanks, Bill.

Have a time travel Tuesday. Do something tenderly tantalizing.

Sunrise At the Oasis

Take my llama to bed.*

It's Monday, some coolness in the air still; glory glory! Except that these photos are from yesterday. If you know Culebra, you'll know this sight (I think they should have a pull-off Scenic Overlook here, instead it is in a pretty awkward place to stop unless you are there around this time and very few, if any, other cars will be coming up behind you). If you don't know Culebra, this is overlooking Zoni beach. Often you can see St. Thomas, St. John and a number of the Bristish Virgin Islands as well. This time it was all Culebra close.

A little bit later in the morning:

Somewhere there must be grant money to stare at the sea all day. Maybe some sunglasses manufacturer. Or hair colorer. Tanning products. Beach towel representative. Water evaporation content scientist. Grains of sand counter.

I need to think about it. Suggestions welcome.

Have a mesmerizing Monday. Do something melodious.

*that's a joke

Sun, Moon, Dogs, Library, and Orchids...

Late in the day but it is Sunday, after all...

First, a farewell to Ren, who fought long and well and love and strength to Marsha, who is one of the strongest women I know. Rest in peace, Ren, fair winds.

 Sunrise this morning

Moon set this morning

Second, Terrie asked me to post this in hopes of a generous traveling companion for the following (and to those who adopted these two satos, may you long enjoy your Culebra companions). Once again, thanks to Marsha and all who have worked so hard with her to place these homeless satos over the years.


AWC (Animal Welfare of Culebra) seeking travelers on AA direct to JFK (or Newark) AND BOSTON for two dogs recently adopted. AWC will meet the traveler at AA, check the dog in, pay for the dog's travel, & organize the pickup upon arrival.

Please contact Terrie at 787-235-6736 or animalwelfareofculebra@yahoo.com of you can help! Thanks!"

My orchids have started to bloom...purple next!

An update from the Library Caretakers! Write this down!!!

The Culebra Community Library is open from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. on:

Monday

Tuesday

Thursday

Friday (bilingual staff available)

Saturday (bilingual staff available)

-

Our phone # is 787-533-0725

Come on in and check us out!

Enjoy the rest of your Sunday ~ may it be tranquillo.