Conch-ing Around

Arriving 20 minutes early, we were the first to enter the plain sanctuary of Trinity Presbyterian Church in old town Key West for yesterday's 11 am Sunday worship service.  As a sparce number of congregants were arriving, we were warmly greeted and welcomed by Rev. Denise McLeod.  The service was a memorable one for several reasons:  (1)  Other than the 6 white visitors, all others were black; (2) All art and every music selection sung or played reflected black culture or artists; (3) The "Time with Young Disciples" message to the children:  Know where you come from, be proud to be black, and make something good of your life; (4) The preaching (based on Exodus 20:1-7):  Many voices compete for our attention in this world.  Hear what God is telling you.  Know that God's love is a jealous love for his children and He will hold on tightly to us as we strive to listen to his voice amidst the noises that surround us.  

As we left the church, Brenda asked a man who had served as an usher, "How many members does your church have?"  He said the church has been around since the 1800s and his father is currently one of its elders.  At one time, the membership was close to 200 but last year "something happened" and many left the church.  "But," he added, "Slowly many are coming back.  Many are coming back."

DID YOU KNOW?

Key West's frustrations with the federal government (cumbersome border security measures) sparked in 1982 the creation of the "Conch Republic."   While the "sovereign state of mind" seeks only to bring more "humor, warmth and respect" as a key tourism booster for the area, the faux secession was based on genuine concerns.

Today is the birthday of Marlys Finkenbinder, Mike's mother.  Marlys is the best mother, mother-in-law, grandmother and great-grandmother our family could ever wish for.  Happy Birthday, Mom!

This morning, February 17th, Kathy and Steve (MV "Red Pearl") became first-time grandparents. 
Congratulations, Steve and Kathy on your new grandson!!

Last Wednesday four dinghies with Loopers left the marina and motored out of the bay towards a destination for lunch in Key West. 

We dinghied to "The Hurricane Hole" marina and restaurant for lunch.

Kathy and Steve (MV "Red Pearl")

Mangroves, also called "walking trees" line many waterways in Key West.  These tropical trees tolerate salt and brackish waters and are great plants for our planet, taking carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere better than most any other tree on earth.

Our dinghy group exploring the waters of Key West.

Us.

Despite the time Steve and Mike put into working on Steve's outboard dinghy motor, the motor still isn't running optimally.

We got together with Jamie and Trish (MV "About Time") last Saturday night in old town Key West.  We met Jamie and Trish in Little Current in Canada and it was great to see them again!  Jamie and Trish live on their 40' Meridian and their home port is St. Augustine, FL.

Jamie and Trish took us to Mallory Square in old town Key West where the sunsets are spectacular and crowds can enjoy the many performing artists.  Jamie and Trish specifically sought out "Abby the Spoon Lady" and her band.  Jamie and Trish became familiar with Abby the Spoon Lady through her Youtube videos. 

The sale of Velsignet won't be a done deal until all issues have been resolved and we close on Feb 27th.  In the meantime, there is excitement among all parties.  This is posted by Ang at her place of residence in Miami.  If things continue forward, "Velsignet" will be renamed "Mermaid Life."

This is Trish, Jamie, Brenda and Mike with Abby the Spoon Lady and band in the background.