During all this time spent resting and soul-searching in Key West, we have become part of the liveaboard community at Garrison Bight (one of KW's city marinas). It's been an interesting experience.
Our neighbor on one side, Tim, is in a 2-room houseboat. He's a massage therapist, drinks quite a bit, and is playing host to his 20yo nephew and the nephew's best friend. They're pretty crowded in there, but they're having a good time. The other night, they threw an anti-hurricane party, celebrating the end of "the season," that was attended by folks from several boats around. The girls and I stopped by (Frank was retrieving the van) for a bit and had several inebriated Conchs tell us how silly we are to quit our cruise. It was entertaining.
On the other side of Tim is a young couple in a pretty Oday sailboat. They are both pilots for a local airline, so the $1000/month slip fees (which include utilities) probably don't make much of a dent. Their snazzy new 350Z sits in the parking lot between flights.
My favorite marina resident is 11-month-old Judah. He lives with his parents in a somewhat rundown but huge houseboat -- probably 1500 square feet of living space in there. He is as enchanted with our rats as I am with him and squeals with delight when we bring them out to visit. Mezza and Snowball are less entertained.
On the next dock over live a couple of guys in their 40's who are trying to break into the music scene. They had their first gig this past weekend. One of them looks amazingly like Frank. The other is a big black guy who wears dark shades at all times and has wonderful rasta dreads.
I love nighttime here. Warm air, sweet breezes, stars and moon, and a quirky shabby-but-ready-for-anything atmosphere. Frank and I agree that we wouldn't want to live here -- guess we like a little less Conch and a little more yup -- but it's an intriguing place.
KQR
Mojo Brew bio
6 months ago
5 comments:
Dear ZP Krewe,
we have so enjoyed your journey - I found myself cringing with the seasick parts! I'm so sorry the trip didn't include the luxurating tropical-style that you set out to find. No doubt you've found out new things about yourselves and each other that I'll bet will make you stronger people and a stronger family. You will go down in Maier family history as the most intrepid of adventurers!
I can't wait to see you when you come home!!!
Love, Sonya and clan
Garrison Bight sounds like a great place to hang out for a couple weeks. You will remember it fondly for years to come. For those of us who have never experienced living aboard in a marina, your writings convey a lot of the balmy night and close neighborhood atmosphere. I would love to experience it.
Remember to convey the story about the "Pork Fried Rice" that Frank fixed for dinner!!
Love to all......
Thanks to you all for letting me share a little in your escapade. I so enjoy your writings and descriptions of places and people.
It has been a pleasure to get to know you all just a bit.
All the best as you voyage along the rest of life's adventures.
What do you mean, conch? Floridian/Rasta??
Jerry has taken over the cruising for the family. He says it's very blue and lots of waves. He's taking some language lessons, no comment on what language, and he hopes it helps. The bunks are only 4 high, or 4 deep whichever way you look at it!
M
KQ Ronnie and Krewe,
Glad to hear you'll be wrapping up your journey with a full complement of warm bodies. It surely was not the vacation you had hoped and planned for, but it was a great adventure nonetheless, and you'll share a wealth of memories together.
Thank you for your entertaining and detailed account. It has become something of an addiction here.
Best wishes,
Mitch
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