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Leave the Crew a Message...be sure to leave your email address so that you can be added to the emails.
Thanks,
Lesley
Keeper of the Stuff
Comment by: Visitor (11/10/2007 8:17:38 PM) What an adventure. It seems as though everyone is doing good.. Have a safe journey home. hootbj@aol.com
Comment by: Visitor (11/9/2007 7:39:13 AM) Congrats to Mom, Dad, Mike and Lauri! Enjoy New Zealand. I will see you next week. I can't wait to hear the stories and see the pictures. XOXO Christy and Brad
Comment by: Visitor (9/25/2007 5:54:38 PM) Hey Mom and Dad...Can I come back???? Christy.
Comment by: Visitor (9/7/2007 9:34:17 PM) Hi guys, glad to see you're back online and Mary Ann is on board. I hope she has a great time. I have been catching up on the pictures. Beautiful! Happy "late" 40th anniversary. Have fun, be safe. Linda & Larry
Comment by: Visitor (9/7/2007 12:03:54 PM) Hi Sweethearts! I'm missing you. I'll be headed to Gainesville, first time in three years, to pick up Holly's little car. Mine got wrecked! Go figure. I LOVE THE CITY...not! Anyway, thinking of you. Mom is doing well, send happy thoughts. She has three more treatments. One in September, two in October and then she's all done! She'll be sporting a new "look" by Thanksgiving. All my love...to my other family.
Love Liz
Comment by: Visitor (9/6/2007 6:44:47 PM) Hi Jim and Martha, we have been following your progress. Whew! All I can say is the FL Keys Mahi Mahi don't miss you. We do! Tom and Nadia
Comment by: Visitor (8/27/2007 7:29:56 AM) Dear Martha & Jim,
Really enjoyed the last comments and the pictures I would love to go to the little bar on the iland, You are right Jim could pass as French Polynesian with the nose and checks. Of course it wouldn't hurt if he had a tat or two. I loved the guy with all the tats that took Holly and Cristy on the horse ride way back. I know you two are having a great time. Saw Holly last week she said she had been doing most of her work at the Vet School she is always the same sweet smilling girl that she is and we love her, Mr.T also. Take care and have loads of fun. Oh can you eat dolphin? is it good.
Sandy and the Lab girls
Comment by: Visitor (8/20/2007 6:49:00 PM) hey guys i love you and miss you and i cant wait to see you have fun much love
brad
Comment by: Visitor (8/16/2007 10:27:22 AM) Hi guys I am just sitting here reading about your journeys.....I hope you guys are having the time of your lives, you deserve it!!! Thinking of you often.....safe travels.....love you
Kelly (Reno)Baker
Comment by: Visitor (8/15/2007 7:51:29 AM) Happy 40th Anniversary on Saturday! Enjoy your time and your adventure! We are so proud of you. Love, Christy and Brad
Comment by: Visitor (8/14/2007 10:28:34 PM) I miss you guys! I miss all of the other boaters out there too, tell everyone "hello" from me. Most of the stars must have fallen out of the sky on my way home...they are missing. Sure wish I could have gotten a picture of the Bowl of Stars. Enjoy Bora Bora and, Mom, go swimming with the whales to get a good pic from underwater...Love ya, Christy
Comment by: Visitor (8/11/2007 5:08:05 PM) Hi guys, I see that you made it to Tahiti. Hope you are taking in the beauty of the islands. We loved the scenery and the snorkeling. We are in Hawaii for a couple of weeks and thought you might be here by now, but I see you are having too much fun in the Polys. Hope you have a great time and a save return. Love, Cuz Patti and Jim
Comment by: Visitor (8/8/2007 8:56:55 PM) Hello from the Cooks. We are back home and very sad because our time was up. Cought 31 lobsters in the two day dive. Lots of fish, missed you guys at the fish fries. Now we are back in Polk County in the heat.hootbj@aol.com
Comment by: Visitor (8/3/2007 7:42:43 PM) I sure will be glad when Special Blend moves. This message board isn't fun to look at all right now. Blah, blah, blah. :)
Comment by: Visitor (7/21/2007 3:47:15 PM) This morning Lesley lost her loyal feline friend "Miss Coal" She was a black long hair kitty, that loved being with Lesley. She was around 15 years old, Lesley rescued her all those many years ago.
Comment by: Visitor (7/18/2007 11:54:40 AM) Hello Martha and Jim! Just checking in with you. I love you both and Holly and the girls so much. I know they've had a hard time getting back to "working" life. Funny, I haven't even been there and I'm having the same problem. I told Holly I hear "two pina coladas" calling....must be time for the Keys or the boat...one of the two! Things are going well here Mom is doing pretty good. Today is a great day! We're thinking about you and wishing you safe and exciting journeys...oh, and if your headed to Australia or New Zealand...I'm ready to barnacle scrape!!! Love Liz
Comment by: Visitor (7/15/2007 2:59:20 AM) Hey mom and dad! We miss you and the islands. Hard to get back into the American ways...Mae Ruu Ru Ra! Thanks to all of our friends on the net. It is so nice getting messages from home while we are out there bobbing around. Keep it up for them, they won't have a crew for a few weeks or even a month or so. Love to all....christy
Comment by: Visitor (7/9/2007 4:27:52 PM)
HI Jim and Martha and family,
I have been following your trip and am excited that you are in Moorea. Jim and I were there about 10 years ago and fell in love with this island. We stayed at the Bali Hai Club which is on Cooks Bay . If you get a chance it's a great place to stop and have a drink or dinner. They also have a great luau you can go to with an incredible dinner. You can anchor in the bay and take your dingy over to their landing. The Snorkeling around the reefs is the best we have ever done. Opunohu Bay is by far the most beautiful scenery I have ever seen. It was voted the world's most beautiful bay in Conde Nast several years ago. When we were there they were remaking Mutiny on the Bounty and were doing most of the filming on Opunohu Bay. If you have time stop and rent mopeds and do the island. There is some spectacular views from the mountains and the beaches are lovely. As you have probably found out the polynesian people are very lazy people. They don't worry about anything and never worry about tomorrow. They will do that when tomorrow comes. I had one tell me that they live for each day and only that day. If the go fishing they only catch what they eat that day never more. They spend a lot of time laying around talking and they love to drink. Sounds like a stressfree life style to me. Hope you are enjoying your adventure and keep the stories coming. Love to each of you, Patti (Lyle) Lewis.
Comment by: Visitor (7/8/2007 1:50:10 PM) send christy home we miss her jenny
Comment by: Visitor (7/8/2007 11:58:52 AM) Hello Martha and Jim! What a great adventure you and your family are having. Gary and I and the children were down at Long Key and learned about your amazing adventure. Just wondering if you both could use an onsite massage therapist onboard "Special Blend"? Belle and Gary
Comment by: Visitor (7/7/2007 10:10:14 PM) Sounds like you are having the time of your lives. The pics are amazing. The chronicles of your adventures have been fun to read and make me remember amny of our fishing and keys adventures as kids. Enjoy every minute. Becky
Comment by: Visitor (7/2/2007 8:18:14 AM) Dear All,
The new pictures are awesome, looked like Holly fell in love with an island dog, knowing her love of animals can see why. The rainbow was so beautiful, know you are having fun and sure do thank you for sharing it with us back at the lab.
Sandy one of the lab rats
Comment by: Visitor (6/30/2007 9:51:48 AM) Photos are fabulous. The water is so clear. Brad what a fish. That must have taken hours to catch. Lesley you are doing a great job as Keper of the Stuff. Have a Happy 4th of July. hootbj@aol.com
Comment by: Visitor (6/30/2007 8:30:59 AM) Hello, just missing y'all. everyday is a new adventure. Martha, you and Jim look wonderful. What wonderful memories y'all are making, when you are old and sitting in that rocking chair, it will not be boring, because of the memories. enjoy... Love to all Myrtle & Frank
Comment by: Visitor (6/29/2007 10:22:24 AM) Soundslike awonderful trip,we'll pass on Capt's Log and Martha's Memories to Allene and Jerry Bob and Shirley Turner bobcturn@aol.com
Comment by: Visitor (6/29/2007 3:41:12 AM) Hey to all, it sure is not the same here on the boat without Jim, gosh all we seem to be able to do is shop :) guess that's not all bad. Tomorrow is a Holiday here stores will be closed, guess we'll wash the boat!
Martha
Comment by: Visitor (6/28/2007 8:14:22 PM) To Martha & Jim- Travis had some wonderful pictures and story's to tell us about his adventure on his cruise. Thank you so much- And treating him kindly. Love, Lorie (Travis's sister from Maine.)
Comment by: Visitor (6/28/2007 10:49:14 AM) Leslley where are those pictures?
Comment by: Visitor (6/28/2007 10:48:36 AM) Okay now that Jim is gone who is Captain of the ship. Were catching lots of fish here and enjoying the tropical setting. July 4th won"t be the same without you. Enjoy your stay in Tahiti. hootbj@aol.com
Comment by: Visitor (6/23/2007 9:39:56 AM) I have enjoyed reading your posts and I wish you continued good fortune on you trip. I was wondering if you could tell me how you know in different parts of the world which fish may be tainted with ciguatera and which are safe to eat?
Take care
Scott
sevangelsta@deloitte.com
Comment by: Visitor (6/21/2007 9:10:43 PM) Just had a wonderful fish fry at the tike hut. Wish you were here....Martha I hope you had a good trip back. Enjoy your wonderful time together...................The Cooks and the Weinkauf's in C-7
Hey Princess.......How is your oddessy going?? Hi to everyone else!!!!
Comment by: Visitor (6/19/2007 4:56:24 PM) Greeting from the Cook's. We only thought we were in Paradise in the Keys. Sounds like your adventure is really it...Wish you were here but your fish are bigger and very exciting. It's kinda quite on Long Key today. Most people come on the weekends. Martha I hope you get back safely and Christy and Brad have a great time.
Hey all I'll be headed out tomorrow morn at 8:00am from Tampa Fl. Will stay a night in Tahiti then on to the boat Tues am. Mother is doing fair at this point heart seems to be ok, but they are keeping her heart rate and blood pressure very low as not to put strain on the disected area. Plus she pulled her back in the hospital and is having severe muscle spasms, and the meds for that make her real drowsy. Lesley will post pictures I brought home with me as soon as she gets a spare minute. She'll be Grandmom sitting at night . It's been a real busy time for both of us. Can't wait to see Jim and the crew.
Love to all
Martha
Comment by: Visitor (6/16/2007 1:54:18 PM) Hey Brad, just checking out the website and catching up on all of the great and fun things you are doing. Sounds like some great adventures and fish catching!! We so enjoy reading about all the fun you are having. Miss you a ton ! Hope you all continue to have a wonderful and safe trip.
Lots of Love - Tiffany & Albert
Comment by: Visitor (6/13/2007 2:19:23 PM) Hello Crew! I just wanted to check in with everybody. Ms. Christy I miss your voice! Remind me to tell you a funny story about a skirt being tucked in panythose when you get back...it's too funny and it wasn't me! Mr. Jim, Travis, and Brad, I hope you all are having the time of your life. It sounds amazing. I talk to Holly everyday....YEAH!!! and catch up with Ms. Les every couple of days. I'll be in Florida in August sometime and hope to see most of you there. Christy, mom should start treatment at the end of the month or first part of July. Keep in mind we all want to go to Vegas later this year when she's better for my 30th birthday!!! Oh, I did get to hear Ms. Martha's voice and of course I cried...I didn't realize how much I missed her. All of you are in my prayers Love you ....be safe. Love Liz
Comment by: Visitor (6/12/2007 10:11:25 AM) I just wanted to say Hello, to the newest squid on the boat.... Ms. Christy. I hope your travels went fine. I am sure you are basking in the sun, fishing or swabbing the deck. Whatever your doing has got to be better than being stuck behind a desk. Just wanted you know that I miss you and Im wishing I was there. Hope to hear from you soon. Catch a big one for me. Barbie Taylor barbie.taylor@lakelandelectric.com
Comment by: Visitor (6/10/2007 11:06:47 AM) Hey Jim, Martha, and the Crew, Just wanted to say hello. I have been following your journey for awhile, but always forget to send greetings! We have been enjoying the pics and logs. Everything looks and sounds Amazing! We will be trolling the "hump" in a few weekends so I will give you a report and hopefully some pixs. Stay safe. Brad Wright steelers147@comcast.net
Comment by: Visitor (6/8/2007 11:35:31 AM) Dear Martha,
I have been living your journey vicariously, as it sounds many others have been doing. Our last trip to the Keys, while visiting Bob Plyer, I met the lovely Bonnie. Laura, Johnnie, my husband, Peter, Bob, Bonnie & I had a fund time in the spring. We heard about your start, and then again when we were there visiting Bob for our annual fishing tournament last weekend, that you and your husband were in Tahiti.......WOW!......while walking the bridge, Peter and I met Barbara and Hootie. (More great folks!) I told Barbara about how you and I modeled together.........and I am sure that you are camera ready everyday, even in the Pacific. So sorry to hear about your mother, however, happy to hear about the great blessing. Obviously, her time is not up! We will all be praying for a full recovery! My best is sent to you and Jim. Warmest regards, Laura-Leigh Wood. LauraLeighWood@earthlink.net
Comment by: Visitor (6/7/2007 9:19:11 AM) Hey from Martha, I am back in the States, my Mother gave us a scare Tues and we were not sure what the outcome would be, with lot of prayers and my Mothers strong faith she is doing very well. Lesley will update everyone what was going on, seems we had a miracle.. Will write soon will be with Mother for a few days.
Love to all Martha
Comment by: Visitor (6/5/2007 10:50:30 AM) Hey Travis, mom wants a black and white pearl necklace or ring ( size 7) Probably too late. Love, Lorie & Mom
Comment by: Visitor (6/5/2007 8:46:42 AM) Hey there brother, read the "Barnacles scraper chonicles" about the black pearls, after all that did you get them ? Will let mom read it. Love and miss you. See you end of this month in Maine :)
Comment by: Visitor (6/3/2007 11:38:46 AM) Hey Travis, Hope you're enjoying yourself. Kegging this weekend (mild ale, kolsch and our griffen spit ). Take lots of pics and have a great time. Oh yeah, get to work you scurvy deck ape! D-
halster213@bellsouth.net
Comment by: Visitor (6/2/2007 3:47:05 AM) Travis, you are "missing" a weekend of rain in Florida! Finally we are getting a soaking. Hope all is well.
Bill Ahrens
mrbill201@cfl.rr.com
Comment by: Visitor (6/1/2007 5:24:08 PM) Greetings to the Captain and crew of the Special Blend. Lauri and I continue to enjoy your journey via "The Keeper of the Stuff." Incredible "stuff" happening, including but not limited to: Academia Bay, Ascension Bay, Baie D'Anaho, Baie Hanamoenoa, Barefoot Cay, Bay of Virgins, Belize, Cancun, Colombia, Cozumel, Dry Tortugas, Ecuador, Fatu Hiva, French Polynesia, Galapagos, Hol Chan Pass Reserve, Honduras, Isla Isabella, Isla Mujeres, Lake Gatun, Manihi Atoll, Marquesas Islands, Mexico, Nuku Hiva, Panama Canal, Pearl Islands, Puerto Aventuras, Puerto Ayora, Puerto Morelos, Roatan, San Andres Island, San Miguel, San Pedro, Tahuata, Tuamotus Islands, Xcalak, Yucatan (channel and peninsula), and many more yet to visit, whew! I've learned more geography in the last three months than I did in the high school "Introduction to Geography" class taught by one Robert Cloud at the old FMHS. The teacher was fine, his student was the challenge. Seriously, we look forward to each posting and wish for you to "keep up the good stuff." Our love to you all! Lauri, Boomer and Mike
Comment by: Visitor (5/31/2007 7:18:50 PM) We are off to C-7 tomorrow for a couple of months. We follow you everyday. The trip sounds awesome. We will miss not having you there this summer. We will be in touch. Waiting for those pictures. Hootie
Comment by: Visitor (5/31/2007 4:56:28 PM) Hello everyone on the Special Blend,
Travis will be missed but I can truly say it is wonderful to see Holly and have her back. She looks wonderful and is well rested (she may beg to differ). Have a wonderful time for the rest of your trip and I hope Travis finds the adventure as wonderful.
Love Holly's Neighbors the Smolas
Comment by: Visitor (5/31/2007 7:57:09 AM) Hi Crew,
I have enjoyed Life at Sea every morning when I get into work(ACS), just want to Thank you for sharing the fun with all us Lab Rats, saw Holly yesterday and she looked great, Mr. T you have your work cut out for you taking Holly's place, cooking, fishing and of course making everyone laugh. Thank you Martha and Jim for the wonderful stories.
Sandy Williams and the girls in the Lab
Comment by: Visitor (5/30/2007 11:31:42 PM) Well I finally made it back - but I hated to leave. Oh what a wonderful time, what beautiful places, and great people. It was the adventure of a lifetime and I had my mom and dad to share it with. I have such special parents - thank you mom and dad for the laughs, the tears, the fun, and for the adventure I will never forget. But mom today I took a LONG shower, had a glass of REAL milk, went to TACO BELL and drank a DR. PEPPER. Miss you already!
Love you,
Holly
Comment by: Visitor (5/29/2007 7:43:07 PM) Hi Crew! I have to say I was so damn excited to hear Holly's voice on the phone I thought I would pee myself. I couldn't peel the smile off my face or take the bounce out of my step all day. Only talked to her for about 20 minutes...but she called me right back and I had to kick myself to realize I did just hear her voice TWICE in one hour! God Love DADDY'S BABY GIRL! I know I sure do love her. Anyway, mom is doing well she starts treatment in a few weeks from what we know right now. Things are much better than we thought...by the grace of God. Her and Daddy, officially, want to be barnacle scrapers anytime, anyday, anywhere...just let them know and they'll pack their bags, bring money, anything that you all need!...as soon as she's finished with some of her stuff here. I love you all so much and Gosh Darn I miss ya's!! Always, Liz
Comment by: Visitor (5/28/2007 6:22:32 PM) Just spent an hour reading the adventures. WHAT FUN! (for you - not me...tee.hee.hee) Martha, you are my hero - you know I could never do it! We will miss you guys in the Keys and haven't broken the word to my girls that Brad may not be in the Keys when we are there. They will be so disappointed. Love to all. Be safe but most importantly LIVE LIFE! Paige and JT
Comment by: Visitor (5/27/2007 6:19:56 AM) Travis,Holly,Jim,Martha & Brad, So glad to hear your all having a wonderful time. Trav I got your e-mail, read it to mom and dad on phone. Thank you. Stay safe. Take lot's of pictures. Love, Lorie
Comment by: Visitor (5/26/2007 10:43:14 PM) Travis, Holly, Marth and Jim.
Just thought I would let you know the horses and dogs are ok...lol. I know ya'll are having the time of you lives. See ya When you get home!
Ron Sanderson, High Springs
Comment by: Visitor (5/25/2007 6:31:30 PM) Dear Martha and Jim - you guys have been through a "life altering" experience, and there is now nothing that you cannot do or accomplish!! What a feeling to be on top of the world, and know it!! Have fun, enjoy and take lots of photos. We Love You - BE SAFE! Mike and Lauri
Comment by: Visitor (5/24/2007 9:25:44 PM) Dear Jim and Martha:
Congratulations on your big crossing. I spoke with Eric Grab the other day, what an amazing feat for your two 43's to accomplish in tandem. Hope you will get to tie up side by side and get a good photo. Thanks for posting all of your adventures and continued success! Seems like you were just in Florida...
Cheers,
Jeff Merrill jeff.merrill@nordhavn.com
Comment by: Visitor (5/24/2007 4:25:36 PM) DEAR MARTHA AND JIM,
SEEMS LIKE YESTERDAY YOU GAVE ME A TOUR OF THE SPECIAL BLEND BEFORE YOU SET OFF ON YOUR ADVENTURE.ELAINE AND I HAVE FOLLOWING ALONG VIA YOUR LOGS.I LOOK FORWARD TO A LONG TALK BACK AT THE CONDOS NEXT WINTER. THATS IF YOUR NOT OFF ON ANOTHER ADVENTURE. GOOD LUCK AND MAY GOD BE WITH YOU.
JERRY SOMERVILLE
Comment by: Visitor (5/24/2007 3:28:38 PM) Dear Captain, Admiral and Crew of the Special Blend,
My name is Bob Webb. (bobann49@knology.net). I am Sylvia's 1st cousin. I may have met you down on Long Key several years ago. My whole family and my brother have been following your trip daily.
What a facinating trip. How I wish I could be with you. My brother "Horton," Sylvia and my wife and I have been long time boaters and fishermen. I have also been to French Polynesia rather recently. It is so beautiful. Diving is the best I have ever seen. Watch out for the sharks. There are plenty of them around but they don't seem to be too aggressive, except for the bullsharks. If you want to learn a little Polynesian, here is a standard greeting you might try: "AH-HOT-TEE-WHO-LU." Think of a cup of hot tea. They will think you are really smart. You will have to handle the French on your own. Bless you all and have a safe trip. Bobby Webb (as Sylvia calls me)
Comment by: Visitor (5/24/2007 2:12:10 PM) Hey everyone!!!! I hope you are having an amazing time!!!! Tell Christie and Brad that Kasey says Hi!!!! Have fun and good luck!!!! E-mail-- Kaster0323@aol.com
Kasey Skoll
Comment by: Visitor (5/24/2007 11:37:12 AM) Hi Guys, things are good here. Missing you like crazy Holly Renee...poor Leslie and Christie...I don't think they realized I could talk so much :) The island sounds enchanting! Be safe and keep smiling.....love you guys. Liz
Comment by: Visitor (5/23/2007 9:23:55 PM) Hello Martha, Jim & Holly, Travis talked to me from LA. he's all exited ! Like a kid in a candy store.LOL. Holly he misses you so much and I think alittle lonely. Trav. e-mail when you reach Special Blend. Love ya big sis, Lorie (Pictures & more pictures.)
Comment by: Visitor (5/23/2007 6:16:25 PM) "The sea does not reward those who are too anxious, too greedy, or too impatient. One should lie empty, open, choiceless as a beach - waiting for a gift from the sea." Perhaps Anne Morrow Lindberg new what she was writing, and I believe that you have truly found your "gift from the sea". I hope all is well and I check your website daily. David Burry
Comment by: Visitor (5/23/2007 10:13:28 AM) YOU'RE A LONG WAY FROM THE CURVE ON KOKOMO! FANTASTIC TRIP NEWS & CONGRATS ON SUCCESSFUL CROSSING. MITCH GRADUATING FROM ALL SAINTS 5/24. WE WILL BE IN CHINA MID JUNE. STOP BY TO SEE US IF YOU'RE IN THE AREA!BE SAFE. LOVE FROM THE DAVIS FAMILY.
Comment by: Visitor (5/22/2007 11:48:54 PM) Tuesday, 11:50 PM...Their bags are packed, ready to go. They are leaving on a jet plane...we just have to wake up in 3.5 hours to get to the airport by 5 am. Brad and Travis should reach the Special Blend sometime in the afternoon on Thursday. Talk about a long journey! Of course, they have plenty of snacks...would you expect less from me? I will be headed out on June 7! .....Christy
Hi Martha and Jim, YOU MADE It! Great news. Hope you guys are having lots of fun. Sure
sounds like it. Not much in the big city of SANFORD, FLORIDA right now. Crazy weather we are having along with the fires.
Just ordered our Gator tickets. Stay safe and we love hearing about your fantastic trip. We loved Tahiti.. Jean & Frank Clontz
Comment by: Visitor (5/19/2007 11:46:14 AM) YEAH YEAH YEAH!!! YOU MADE IT! I'm so excited for you. I hope all of you feel better soon. Things are going well here. Mom's doing awesome. She came home yesterday and is already on email. Love Liz
Comment by: Visitor (5/18/2007 9:43:55 PM) Mom, the leaves on the new sapling Maple tree in the front pasture taste GREAT! I've been eating them all day! Thanks for the extra foliage. Love, Gracie
Comment by: Visitor (5/17/2007 7:41:22 PM) Hello again. Mom made it through with flying colors...what a stressful day. She was a champ though and just as graceful and beautiful as always. She's my hero. I was ever so grateful to hear my Miss Holly on the phone. I'm sorry I cried the entire time...but I figured you didn't expect much else from. Mr Jim and Ms. Martha from the bottom of my heart, thank you for all of your sweetness this year and every year I've known you. God Bless and I can't wait until you hit land!!! Hugs and Kisses! Liz
Comment by: Visitor (5/15/2007 9:07:50 PM) Hi guys. Tomorrow is mom's "day". We're all getting very nervous. Please say some prayers for us. She's just ready to get it over with and the healing to begin.Miss you Holly, love you all. Liz
Comment by: Visitor (5/13/2007 2:25:35 PM) The seas and days pass fast when your having fun. You guys are amazing..........Life at sea sounds great ! Wanted to wish you Happy Mother Day. The exercise sounded like a great idea.........you may have to just get out and swim.............really with all that water. We look forward to hearing from you every day. Baarbara and Hootie
Comment by: Visitor (5/12/2007 9:48:56 PM) This is Mary Ann Hornsby, down in the Keys at the condo. I'm following every step of your trip! I still want to join you somewhere in the South Pacific. Have double bag, will travel. Love, Mary Ann
Comment by: Visitor (5/11/2007 7:23:46 PM) It's been great fun reading about your adventure. Keep an eye out for Kosmos, another Nordy 43 that is traveling out your way.
Comment by: Visitor (5/11/2007 7:09:33 PM) What incredible pictures. I am a friend of Travis and also Doug Kranich. Travis mentioned the voyage. You are to be commended. I love the opening quote by Mark Twain.
Congratulations and God's Speed!
Bill Ahrens, Melbourne, FL mrbill201@cfl.rr.com
Comment by: Visitor (5/11/2007 3:46:51 PM) Dear group, recieved the email. Love you all. Keeping close contact with the girls. We need a girl trip! Counting down the days.
Liz
Comment by: Visitor (5/9/2007 11:33:16 AM) Holly, I keep trying to email but no response. Not sure if you're getting my mails or not. A little bunny told me that Jim is notorious for deleting the emails... If you can't mail I understand but missing you and found out your arrival date home! Counting down the days...love you all be safe. Liz
Comment by: Visitor (5/9/2007 6:14:35 AM) Happy Anniversary Holly, I know I'm a day late. Was suppose to e-mail last night but got busy. Hope your having a great time. Love you, Lorie
Comment by: Visitor (5/8/2007 4:50:57 PM) Where's Dr. Smith
Danger, Will Robinson
Comment by: Visitor (5/8/2007 4:32:17 PM) Hi Jim,Martha and Miss Hol,
Everything here in STL is going well, just welcoming some warm weather finally.....Liz is sure missing you Hol, we talk about you guys daily...hope you are having the time of your lives!! Mom's doing well, surgery was postponed until May 17th....we'll keep you posted. Be safe we love you guys!! I love following your travels....
Kelly (kellyrenolmt@yahoo.com)
Comment by: Visitor (5/6/2007 8:39:27 PM) Hi All - sounds like the weather has not been as cooperative as it could have been. Hang in there - think of the $$$ you are saving not having to use shampoo, makeup etc. Just a note - I was published in Birds & Bloom magazine this month - a surprise since I sent in the picture over a year ago! Take care and continue to HAVE FUN!! Love you all - Lauri & Mike P.S. Happy Birthday, Leslie (I still have pictures in my photo treasure box from your 1st BD party)
Comment by: Visitor (5/5/2007 4:38:45 PM) Holly, we miss you and all your children are doing well (including Travis). Stay safe and we'll see you soon.
Love The Smola's
Comment by: Visitor (5/4/2007 4:14:40 PM) You are 1/3 of the way there! Holly and mom, the fog over the boat can only be seen by the natives. Don't worry about the shower until the Space Station sends out a message to Huston about the spooky cloud moving across the Pacific. Just think how nice your dredlocks will look in the islands. Brad is getting excited, he is counting down the days. He will see you on the 24th. Passport has arrived and ticket purchased.
Comment by: Visitor (5/1/2007 10:18:59 PM) Hi Gang, It is great fun to get to follow along as you go on youre adventure.Life is good out on the farm.Some frends gave me a retired
rope horse for my girls. Emily Grace rode him in the Grand Entry and the barrel race at River Ranch.IT WAS AWSOME.Fred is 29
and is still in good shape. Paige was scared.Gracie asked me if it mattered if her jeans were to short,I said "You look so cute no one will
notice" that made her smile. He reminds me of that old horse Holly had. I wish I could be there for the horseback rides.
WE MISS YOU! Nancy&Bud
Comment by: Visitor (4/29/2007 12:57:19 PM) Hi Jim and Martha - Greeting from Long Key. . . you neighbor Joan Vernon... The Pesch family is down with me for the weekend. Bob brought us a print out of your Log! What an adventure. Now that we have your website we will keep updated. Sounds like all your dreams are coming true. Travel safe- we are waiting for the next chapter! Joan, Lizzie, Billy, Macky & Caroline
Comment by: Visitor (4/29/2007 9:25:19 AM) Howdee Jim and Martha Carol and crew ,
Enjoying the pix and script.. Keep "em" coming .. Bobby gave me your website info so we are tagging along (dreaming) ..
Keep an eye for "Blackbeard" and the boys.. Hugs to all ..
Russ and Sharon Heard
P.S. Jimmy , you've come along way since being that "skinny" kid in Avon Park .. Congrats !!
P.P.S. Email Sharla8709@cox.net
Comment by: Visitor (4/27/2007 8:26:07 PM) Hi Jimmy and Martha Carol,
This is your cousins Jim and Patti Lewis(Lyle). We have been following your adventure and anxiously awaiting each of your trip entries. Sounds like you are having a lifetime experience one that each of us dream of. Keep the trip logs coming and we wish you an exciting trip and a safe return.
Love to each of you, Jim and Patti
Comment by: Visitor (4/26/2007 3:34:46 PM) Holly, so glad you made it, I am keeping up more now that you are there just to see how much fun you are having. If you are anything like at work I know your Dad will be glad to have you on board. Us girls in the lab say Hi, Sandy and the rest of the lab rats.
Comment by: Visitor (4/23/2007 11:40:12 AM) To Holly: So....I've called Leslie only about 8 dozen times...I have to remind myself if I've told her some stuff or if I told you and I'm blending stories...not sure. I miss you like crazy...but I'm so happy for you knowing you have a chance to see your mama and Mr. Jim. All is well here. Things are calming down. We got mom's patio done for her, my cousins all came to help, she's happy. They will head out to the Keys on Weds. and they are very excited! I know you are safe from Leslie's update...but I still miss you. Called your phone three times just to hear your voice...marking days off on the calendar. Looking forward to pics when you guys can. I'll pencil myself in as the barnacle scraper sometime in October...or the closest opening. Tell Jim to gear up....Liz is coming! Love you all-Liz
Comment by: Visitor (4/22/2007 1:41:42 PM) opps! I forgot to post who that last comment was from.....Shannon :)
Comment by: Visitor (4/22/2007 1:41:10 PM) Holly!!!! Glad to hear you made it safely. How is it? I am sure it is absolutely beautiful. You better take tons of pictures to show me. Well, I hope you have a great time.....I am sure you will- your in good company :). Thinking of you.....
Comment by: Visitor (4/22/2007 10:24:20 AM) Greetings from Bridget and Susan from the airport in the Galapagos that were playing Scrabble. Great talking to you and we are glad that your daughter arrived. Getting ready to leave Quito for the USA. Will check on your Web page to keep in touch! Mahalo
Comment by: Visitor (4/21/2007 12:44:44 PM) Just wanted to say hello to you two. We're following you every day. Sounds like you are having a great time. Hope you catch some fish and can dive soon. You know Holly will want to do that. Having her there will be a treat for you two. Barbara and Hootie
Comment by: Visitor (4/21/2007 10:05:18 AM) Hooray Martha I finally figured out hoe to get back to your Webpage. I saw Holly Friday and she was so excited about joining you all this week. Johnny and I are leaving the Keys tomorrow, April 21st. We are heading to Port St. Lucie for a few days and then own to Orlando to get the bus ready for the trip to Colorado. Johnny has decided he can drive the bus - so wish us luck. May take us a little longer than 4 days, but that's O.K.It sounds like you two are having the thrill of a lifetime on your journey. Needless to say we miss you in the Keys, but know we're looking forward to tracking you every inch of the way. Well gotta run my friends - you have a wonderful day and we'll keep in touch. Love & Hugs - Johnny & Lora
Comment by: Visitor (4/20/2007 10:40:48 AM) jim, about losing an anchor and flopper stopper. trey wants to pass this handy tip on to you *if you cant tie a knot, tie a lot* great going and good job, love bill and margaret
Comment by: Visitor (4/17/2007 8:40:56 AM) Silvia, have a good flight home! I will wait a while, and then call you so we can hopefully have a good chat. Have a continued good trip, Jim and Martha. Remember I am somewhere on that boat. Love to all, Carol L. (School's Out)
Comment by: Visitor (4/15/2007 8:00:28 PM) Go Holly! Go crew (or should I say, shellbacks?)! LOVE the updates. Dan and I were down in some of the spots you cruised through in Mexico recently. How gorgeous was Tulum? Isla Mujeres has a special place in our hearts, too. I decided to post to help Martha through the "bitchy days" because what woman can't relate? Ha. Jealous of all the fun you're having. Have a fantastic time down there, Holly. Please send me a photo of the blue-footed boobies, as I think it will make my life complete.
Love to captain, admiral and crew!
Sara (sara@saralyle.com)
Comment by: Visitor (4/15/2007 9:52:49 AM) They did it! The Special Blend threw the anchor in the Galapagos islands Sat morn in the fog. The "keeper of the stuff" is having tech problems and will soon update the site. All is well with the Special Blend and crew. Congrats to the trusty shellbacks... Daddy, Mom, and Sylvia! Much love, Christy and Brad
Comment by: Visitor (4/13/2007 6:55:31 PM) Cpt. Bligh & Crew,
Traditiion calls those who have not crossed the equator "Polywogs" & those that have are called "Trusty Shellbacks". Congratualtions on becoming "Shellbacks". Champ brought a globe to coffee at John's today and many now realize the earth is round and where the crew of Special Blend is located. Fair winds and following seas. David Burry
Comment by: Visitor (4/13/2007 2:44:16 PM) Oh Holly girl...if anybody can sweet talk the Ecuadoran Government it would be you...LOL So excited your going...you get to see your mama and Big Daddy Jim....no phone calls..what will I do?....thank God for the website. I'm not worried about you swimming those last few hundred miles...you've always been a strong swimmer....taking boat parts might be another story. All of you have a WONDERFUL time. I read the page everyday...missing you all and praying for calm seas. all my love-Liz
Comment by: Visitor (4/13/2007 10:34:13 AM) All right mom and dad - I will be on my way in a few day. It has taken an act of congress (or Ecaudor Government) to get my tickets and I may be traveling with 200lbs of boat parts and I may have to swim the last few hundred miles but I will arrive in the Galapagos. Love you guys and see you soon - Holly
Comment by: Visitor (4/13/2007 6:08:32 AM) David Gill at Gill mfg our thoughts are with you be safe and have a great time David Gill
Comment by: Visitor (4/12/2007 7:00:21 PM) Hey you guys. You have to walk down the steps backward when the seas are rough. That makes it easier. Well you're half way to the next stop. Hootie says you need a ski belt to keep from bruising those hips. Push on..........Barbara and Hootie
Comment by: Visitor (4/12/2007 1:26:04 PM) Just got web site from Larry Wray, great reading of your trip and following virtually along. Stay safe, enjoy. Muriel & Jerry - Islamorada
Comment by: Visitor (4/12/2007 6:37:00 AM) Hang on you guys! Do hope today is better. Give the captain an onion, and can of three bean salad! We are cold here in Marietta, OH. Talked to Lynn at Sea Bird yesterday. Love, Carol
Comment by: Visitor (4/11/2007 12:35:13 PM) I am dying to see photos of this sailfish Jim caught! Enjoy your trip to the Galapagos. I am researching fishing spots in the Marquesas as we speak. -Travis
Comment by: Visitor (4/10/2007 10:39:19 PM) Hi Jim and Martha - boy, have you kept us glued to the screen! I suspect Mike gets up in the middle of the night to check the latest, although he denied as much this morning. We love you guys and miss you much - tell Sylvia hello - can't wait to see you at Christmas! P.S. - Jim - congrats on the sailfish, although without pictures it's just another "fish" story! Be Safe - LOL - Mike and Lauri
Comment by: Visitor (4/10/2007 7:21:32 PM) good talking with you and martha the other night we will follow you all the way love jerry and donna
Comment by: Visitor (4/10/2007 9:37:38 AM) Being tech challenged, I am wondering if we are on the email list..!! We read the latest on the web site each day... Hello to Sylvia. When will you be back at Sea Bird, or do you know yet? Oh, yes, I do remember boat cruising does not go by the calendar! Love to all, Carol
Comment by: Visitor (4/9/2007 2:54:24 PM) Hi Jim and Martha,
Finally got this site on my computer at home after hearing all about it from Bob and have had fun viewing all of it today. What a wonderful trip! Keep on sailing and enjoying yourselves to the fullest, Nancy Had a good visit with Andy and Tina this past weekend.
Comment by: Visitor (4/8/2007 10:09:31 AM) Glad to hear you both made it through the canal! Holly and I were huddled around a computer at work on Friday watching you guys. It was really interesting. Holly and I kayaked down the Santa Fe River yesterday -- 6 miles, so we now have plenty of nautical experience under our belts for the Marquesas! <grin>.
Dear Martha and Jim,
It feels as if the last couple of days are all a dream. I can not believe that I have just seen you much less crossed the Canal on the Special Blend!!
I had such a wonderful time. I had been thinking about the summers of twirling, Royal Crown Cola and Moonpies recently. I guess that all of this thinking and reminiscing brought me this wonderful experience. I have wanted to go through the Canal for the longest period of time. I had almost given up on this opportunity since Tom retired. Now that I am "mutilado" even less. To be able to go through the Canal with my best friend, AKA, "someone from my past" was more than I could ever hope for.
I down-loaded the pictures on to my e-mail and sent them to my girls. Can't wait to tell them all of the stories.
I will be reading the log everyday to follow all of your adventures.
Please return to Panama. We will take Jim fishing and you shopping. There |