Keys and kegs and kisses (and some work too)

We were in Marathon for about 30 minutes (maybe a little less) before plans were made to go to Key West (we’re back with our Social Director, Bob).  Bil Kraus, a friend of Bob and Steph’s, was playing at Irish Kevin’s and they were anxious to hear him.   Turns out Steph had contacted him that morning to tip him off we were coming, so when we walked into the bar he said “Nancy!  My ex-wife!”  He was lots of fun, taping people into their bar stools with painter’s tape, wearing silly hats, and generally being hilarious (without being nasty, which is quite a feat).  Surprisingly (thanks, Steph), I ended up in the cage onstage (no, kids, don’t be scared…I didn’t sing or dance or undress).  We were there for quite a while, but still managed to hit a few more places (Schooner Wharf, Rick’s, Smokin’ Tuna) before dragging our silly selves back to the boats.

caged Admiral

we're baaaaack

amen

this tuna was definitely smokin

On our next trip to Key West, Judy ended up on stage at Irish Kevin’s (I think Bob gets credit for that tip-off)  then William joined her for a serenade.  Bob told every female we met (from cradle to grave) that it was William’s birthday, so he got lots of hugs (and of course Bob got lots of photos).  Jay wants to have the next birthday!

Judy in the spotlight

Jay trying to get some of William's birthday kisses

maybe we've been on the boat too long?

We did sprinkle a bit of work in between games.  Captain Wade and Jay worked to repair the mast compression post (which decompressed last year as we crossed from the Abacos to the U.S.).  They lifted the mast up with bottle jacks, had a new plate made and re-welded to hold the post, then tweaked and retweaked (and sanded a bit) to ensure the perfect fit and stability.  There was just a brief time when the bathroom door wouldn’t close and the floors sounded like elephants were marching through).

Wade playing in the floor

pass the duct tape

no, that's not a gallows; it's the mast-holder-upper Wade and Jay built

new plates to hold compression post

We met some great new friends -- Steve and Kim (m/v Maya), Steve and Rose (s/v Gypsy Queen), Bill and Patty (m/v Conched Out Too), Jill and Richard (m/v Finally); and we were thrilled to see old friends again -- Phred and Candy (Sunset Dancer), Rick and Therese (m/v Capt’n and Hook), Stephen and Pam (m/v Tides In), Bob and Stephanie (m/v September Song), Bob and Katie (m/v Rolling Stone).