Memorial Day Weekend

Jeff and I were invited to spend a weekend with some good friends who live down in El Centro but also have a boat at Shelter Island.

A little history on our friendship. I met Jill at TMC my freshman year ('94) in the HE Dept. She married Mike in 1996 and instead of purchasing a house, they bought a boat (Reel Love) and lived on it for quite some time. They eventually bought a house and settled down in El Centro but the love of boating/sailing/fishing has never subsided. Lucky for us! They live a unique life that we get to enjoy from time to time.

Our weekend was awesome and so special to say the least! We arrived at the Kona Kai Marina early afternoon on Friday. After settling in our stateroom, Jill and I were able to spend some good quality time catching up with each other. It has been 18 mo. since we had seen each other last. Mike and Jill were the friends that took me (us) to that scary food place for my birthday.

Mike had mentioned that we were also going to be sailing with another couple, Mark and Hope. They are a cute, young married couple who are stationed in El Centro for a few more years, and they met Mike and Jill through their church. Once Mark and Hope arrived, we set sail of a short cruise around the harbor.

We decided to anchor within the confines of the harbor and head for the Coronado Islands, MX first thing in the morning.

Saturday morning was so beautiful--

Once we made our 1.5 hr trek to where we would anchor, I decided I should take some Dramamine. Directions: Take 1-2 tablets, 30 min prior to activity. Do not exceed dose within a 24 hr period.

I have never taken motion meds before, so I took two 'just in case'. Bad idea.

I don't remember Saturday...

Sunday, we were still out in MX waters and we went kayaking, snorkeling (not me), I road in the dingy, we fished (unsuccessful), and Mark found all sorts of interesting sea life! It was a gorgeous day with spectacular views all around! That evening we decided to head back into the marina and go out to eat. After dinner we returned to the boat for our last night.

Monday was Jill's birthday! We had flowers and a card for her to enjoy (but forgot about having to tie them all down while the boat was in motion!) Oh well. :o)

We said our good-byes to Mark and Hope and to our wonderful hosts. We could not have asked for a more memorable way to spend our holiday weekend.

Though my thoughts were never far from the reason we honor Memorial Day (well, maybe Saturday they were) it was a relaxing and well needed time away from the nitty-gritty.

Thanks again Mike and Jill--when it comes to hosting, you are the tops!

(the above photos were taken from my iPhone. I will upload the camera pics soon)