The Honeymoon Couple Trip Reports

[elcahun]

Honeymoon Couple Part 1 -- Wednesday


Well, the plane actually took off and we are on our way to Marsh Harbour. We have spent the last two days in Fort Lauderdale on Continental's dime. God Bless my new bride for her phone work with the airline. Looks like we will be coming back soon with our free roundtrip tickets.

Basically, they told us on Sunday night and again Monday morning they would be flying into MHH. It wasn't until we got to FLL that we learned the truth. By Tuesday morning we had them cold in their lies and were given seats for today.

On the plane we met Peter and Amy. They are going to Hope Town to check on a friend's house and stay a bit. When we told them our story they remarked "Oh, you are the 'Honeymoon couple' we read about on the board."

The airport terminal was closed still, but the damage was not as bad as reported. It was to reopen on Thursday. Once we landed, we got a cab ride with Peter Burrows. Remember that name and never get in a taxi with him.

The drive through town showed the mess. Almost any business on the ground floor had water damage. All the trees were leafless. But the water was on, power was back up for many, and the grocery stores were open.

Since phones were still down, we asked to make a couple stops. First on the list was Harbour View Marina/Blue Wave Rentals. The place was completely trashed, along with Mango's and the Conch Inn. We talked with Maurice and he says our boat will be ready in the morning. We then stopped at the Lofty Fig, but no one was around. We needed to make sure that the Hope Town Harbour Lodge was okay, and also wanted to get something to eat. We had two hours until the ferry left. Peter took us to the Abaco Beach Resort. From there we radioed the Lodge. They were up on a generator and our room was waiting.

We asked Peter if he could come back in an hour and take us to the ferry and he said "yes" and even offered to let us keep our bags in his van. We appreciated his help and went off to the bar to have a drink and get some food. We were a few minutes too late though; the Resort was shutting off power for an hour to check the generator. So we had a couple cold Kaliks and got news from the bartenderess. Apparently, the reports that there was no water were wrong. It was shut off purposely for a short time.

She seemed surprised that anyone would have told us not to come. We ordered one more beer and took a walk around the grounds. They survived well, and the marina was in good shape. Seems that the majority of damage was on the inner harbor, since Jeanne came from the north during high tide. Clearly, the devastation was profound. But life was moving along and we are glad to be here.

Peter was waiting for us and drove us to the Ferry docks. They were undamaged. When we went to settle up. Peter told us the cost was $50.00. (Yes, that is not a typo.) I asked him why and he said something about 'wait-time.' I knew we were getting ripped off but the ferry was leaving and I was not in the mood to argue. My bride had no idea and even tipped him another $10.00, our first contribution to the relief effort.

While getting on the ferry we once again saw Peter and Amy. He saw the Kalik can in my hand and whispered "Unless it's an emergency NEVER drink Kalik from a can." We also met Kitty and Dave(?), who were also going to check on a house. It seems we are about the first tourists since the hurricane.

I cannot adequately describe our first glimpse of the Abaco Sea and the Cays. I have never seen anything like it and no picture does it justice. During that twenty minute trip I fell in love. It was everything I believed it would be and more than I imagined.

As we entered the Hope Town Harbour different places were pointed out to us. Pete's Place was being painted, the Harbour's Edge dock was destroyed, Froggy's was closed. Most places had no power. Most of the dock?s were damaged and we had to call for HL to come get our bags.

There were several people in their golf carts picking up friends, yet no one had a bottle opener so they could properly greet them with a cold Kalik. Fortunately, I am a man of many talents and popped a few open with my fist and a hard edge. (By the way Peter, you still owe me a beer!)

Our bags are picked up and we make the short walk to the Lodge. Sand is everywhere. We are greeted by Candice in the office. They have already extended our stay an extra two nights. Once again, we are told we are certainly welcome and she can?t understand why anyone would be so negative and tell us not to come.

We meet Tom, the General Manager, who apologizes for the shape of the pool area. It looks like it is blanketed in snow. But it is that white powdery sand. Several workers are busy cleaning it up. So there will be no swimming in a pool; but who needs it when the Atlantic looks so inviting.

We check into our room and are once again captivated by the views from our balconies. While a little worse for wear, we are certainly still in Paradise.

Later we have a fabulous dinner and chat with some of the other guests, who are all homeowners on Elbow Cay. Spirits are high and everyone is as nice as can be. We later take a short walk on the beach, enjoying the sounds of the ocean and the light of an almost full moon.

My bride and I agree that our decision to come was the right one. And we look forward to whatever the week may hold.

[elcahun]

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[flyingdogs]

how absolutely wonderful that y'all are going with the flow and enjoying the adventure put in front of you! a great time to be in Abaco - and hanging with locals and 2nd home owners, you will learn the real reason we all love it there - have a great time - don't forget to go down to tillou and up to nippers on sunday

[tailwind]

To the honeymoon couple............You Rock!!
My husband & I were married in Hopetown and we have property in Marsh Harbour. Although we live in Flordia - the Abacos are the best. I am glad you enjoyed it!

[ThermoTrent]

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You're attachments don't seem to be working.

TT

[elcahun]

They work for me but I would rather they just show in the message.

Got it figured out.

Views of pool area at HL.

[Mary O.]

Enjoyed reading your report and seeing the photos. So glad you are feeling the love of Elbow Cay as we did when we honeymooned to Hopetown in 1966. Thank you for sharing and look forward to your next chapter! Mary O.

[elcahun]

I got up early to catch the ferry and pick up our boat from Blue Wave. The ride over was just as beautiful as yesterday. I walked the mile or so into town and noticed right away the Castle. As I approached the Harbour the activity grew. People everywhere cleaning up.

There was already a barge at Harbour View Marina pulling up the pilings and demolishing the docks. Talked with Maurice and they were on their way to get my boat. It would be a couple hours.

We had planned on staying a couple nights at the Lofty Fig, so I went over there. Met Sid and we talked awhile. He did not have power or phones yet. But the damage to his place was a few inches of water and some shingles blown off. He asked me if this was my first time to the Abacos. I told him yes and that we were on our Honeymoon.

He replied "So you're the ones I read about on the board."

He also commented that there was a lot of misinformation coming out. He had even heard that the ferry docks were destroyed. His hope was that as people came and left, they would get the word out that they soon will be open.

He also mentioned that we were seeing views that no one has seen in years because all the trees were bare. I mentioned the Castle and he said "yes, I haven't seen it before like that."

It was a pleasant talk and he offered to store our bags if needed before we headed home. Hopefully on the next trip we will stay there.

Next I stopped by the Conch Inn. The bar was open and since they had no power, beers were two for $5.00. They too were cleaning up. All the rooms were being emptied out and cleaned. I guess they got about three feet of water. Most of their docks were damaged.

Went back to Blue Wave and they were prepping the boat. Two or three others were across the street on the ground. I met Troy, who told me he had lost everything, so he was just giving us the boat with no contract. He only asked that we return it and we would work out payment later. He did appreciate us stopping by and still wanting a rental if possible. We were the first ones that had.

"I cried Sunday, but now its back to work," he said.

And work they were doing. He was going to raze the entire dock area and new pilings were going to start being put in on Tuesday.

A short time later the boat was ready. They even washed it out, which I told them wasn't neccessary. "It's got to be done sometime" was the response.

After a quick rundown I was off to Hope Town to pick up my bride. I was finally in the Sea of Abaco, tooling along in its gorgeous emerald waters.

(to be continued)

Pics

The boat that's likely still there in front of Sapodilly's
The barge at Harbour View Marina/Blue Wave Rentals
Boat by Conch Inn
Troy recovering a chainsaw

[DrGecko]

You and your new bride certainly had a honeymoon experience to remember - I am glad you have been bedazzled with the Aabacos (which implies the wonderful people of Abaco!) as most of us have been! Many years of happiness to you both - cherish your special 1st visit - I am sure it won't be your last!
oh and thanks for the pics!

[brock]

Yo Doc, your house is fine. Just a shingle or two and some gutters just like you were told. Have pics if you would like. Same for the house next to you going north.

Brock

[DrGecko]

hi Brock - thanks ...actually jim went down today hoping to find not much work needed on L'il G but being there to help some other folks/settlement out some. I would love to see pics ...alderman@dmv.com
also - are you going to be at the warehouse on saturday? i have offered my body but i think mindy and janet thought i was better suited to chid care than PT equipment breakdown????? they are a dedicated bunch - i can't wait until i am retired and spending more time at great Guana so i can give some time to ECC!
kathy

[elcahun]

Thank God for the Dodge Guide!

I was starting to wonder about my route to Hope Town, but it quickly put me back on track. I made it to the (damaged) HL dock and as I approached I could see my bride on the deck outside our room. She was a little worried it had taken four hours and I was remiss in not radioing the Lodge.

We packed up our stuff and then made a stop at Vernon's and the liquor store for beer. Vernon has got to be one of the sweetest individuals i have ever met (and he too had seen posts about 'the honeymoon couple.' I'm trying not to get a big head over it).

We bought some bread and lunch stuff and then I went to the liquor store while my bride went back to the boat. When I walked into the store, a young lad (10-12) wearing only shorts and what appeared to be a raccoon tail growled at me. He then proceeded to ask if I needed ice and showed me his beach glass collection. I tried to go with the flow, and since his mom/sister/keeper was talking to a local, I listened as he explained where each piece had come from.

Because of Jeanne, they only had Kalik Light left, so I handed over my $45 and took it and the ice.

Now supplied, we headed south towards Little Harbour. I knew Pete's was closed, but figured it was as good a direction as any.

What a ride! The sea was unusually calm and we made the run between Lubber's and Tilloo. We had to stop the boat several times just to stare at what was around us. I have never seen water so clear and colorful. Unfortunately, Troy had lost all his snorkling gear, so we had to be content with just jumping in the water and swimming when we felt like it.

We made it to Sandy Cay and we both got a little nervous about the passage. I just wasn't sure of the approach. We decided to go no further and watch the waves and swim some more. (We also hit a sandbar.)

After floating, eating and swimming we turned back. We took it slower and I enjoyed pointing out all the things I'd read about but was seeing for the first time. My bride is quite the boater I discovered. Quickly picking up the nuances of trim, speed and direction.

We headed to HT looking forward to a drink and our deck.

[elcahun]

We made it back to the HL and did, IMHO, a great job of dropping anchor and tying up the boat. (Thanks for the tips Dr Ralph.) Even though there wasn't as much as a dingy in sight, we didn't want to hog space.

The next couple hours were spent relaxing and then we went for dinner. Since the HL was the only place open it was a no-brainer. The food was excellent, but I wish they had some more variety. Seems like prices go from $6 for soup to $25 for steak. Where's a cheeseburger when you want one?

All in all, it was a great day. The people, the sea, the islands...We could not be happier with our decision to come.

Photos...sunset in Hope Town

[SunBaby]

Elcahun - Love reading your detailed report of activities, conditions, people and the Sea of Abaco !! I almost feel as if I'm back there. I'm so glad things aren't quite as bad as we had heard . At least people have a chance of recovering and getting back to "normal". And your pics make me wish for the quick passage of time till I get back to MHH next Easter. So glad you've fallen "in love" -- with your bride and with Abaco. Here's wishing you many years of happiness with both....

[norvell]

Elachun: In the midst of all the sadness and damage, it's very refreshing to read your trip report, and see the pictures of an Abaco slowly emerging from the storm's destruction, coming back to life. All the best to you and your lovely bride, and welcome to the Abaco's!










We made it back to the HL and did, IMHO, a great job of dropping anchor and tying up the boat. (Thanks for the tips Dr Ralph.) Even though there wasn't as much as a dingy in sight, we didn't want to hog space.

The next couple hours were spent relaxing and then we went for dinner. Since the HL was the only place open it was a no-brainer. The food was excellent, but I wish they had some more variety. Seems like prices go from $6 for soup to $25 for steak. Where's a cheeseburger when you want one?

All in all, it was a great day. The people, the sea, the islands...We could not be happier with our decision to come.

Photos...sunset in Hope Town

[MeyersNpineapple]

Glad you all are enjoying your time in the Abacos - and thanks for the pix - wish I was there right now! Good to see things under repair and slowly getting back to normal, and know that any influx of visitor spending will help get the economy moving again...

[carol]

So glad to see your beautiful pictures, even though the poor palms have taken such a beating. And your reports of Marsh and Hopetown are so upbeat at such a dreary time. I hope you'll continue to return to Abaco in future years. It gets better! All three of our children spent their honeymoons in Abaco, so your reports are a real deja vu! Glad you posted pix of yourselves.We have stood exactly where you did to photograph the Hopetown harbour.Congratulations and best wishes for a happy marriage.

[Buckeye]

It great that you had a great time and made the best of a difficult situation. I am coming down in 2 1/2 weeks for a months stay and I am glad to see things progressing as they are. The best to you both
Howard

[Cynthia]

Honeymoons are a time of emotional and spiritual connecting. It is a time of new beginnings and optimism for the future. Your insistence on completing your honeymoon plans despite the imperfections and obstacles is symbolic of your determination and committment to your marriage. It also parallels Abaco's optimism to rise above tragedies and adversity, and to begin again. How very fitting.

My very best wishes,

[elcahun]

Both Beth and I appreciate your kind words.

I was going to save these pics for the various trip reports but what the heck.

1. The only people on the beach at Treasure Cay.
2. On the Atlantic below the HT Harbour Lodge.
3. Relaxing on our deck.
4. Getting ready to say goodbye to HT.

Jeff

[nancy mcdaniel]

exactly what the Abacos are all about. "Every path is the right path", and the fates brought you to innocent Abaco directly after the twin storms. Now you get to see the beauty of Abaco without all the wannabees. It's easy to go to Abaco when all is right. The Abaco Souls come on their honeymoon when only the hardiest of souls are there. Separate the wheat from the chaft. Sorry newlyweds, but there's no looking back. Not only hooked up to each other, but to this magical and crazy place... P.S. Don't tell anybody about this place except for like-minded folks such as yourselves. Most people don't understand...

[docb]

What an amazing thread! This should become part of the permanent "sidebar". The quintessential Abaco!

[elcahun]

Your kind words and generous thoughts together with with any enjoyment my groom has provided you is very heartfelt. My best thoughts and wishes are for those of you who are workers/natives/part-time residents of the Abacos and I thank you for your generosity of spirit. (And especially for those bartenders and great burger cooks on Treasure Cay and Great Guana Cay (Pat); also Karen and Sylvia at Hopetown Harbour Lodge.) Thanks for wonderful memories; I hope to see you again soon.

The Bride (beth)

[elcahun]

Getting into the island spirit, we spelt late, fianally arising to a beautiful lat morning. The wind was up a little bit, but the skies were clear, sans the occassional puffy cloud. Over coffee and fruit on our deck, we decided it was a great day to head to Treasure Cay.

The only problem was the tide had come up, and the bow of the boat had drifted under the upraised, damaged dock. The front cleat was wedged under. Well we are intelligent adults, so after several attempts of jumping up and down on the bow, we went for help.

A few consultations later, we took a piece of 2x4 and used it as wedge to push the bow down while reversing. SUCCESS! We were off and on our way.

(Note: always recheck your boat lines before going to bed.)

The sea was beautiful and a little choppy. I don't know what the swell was but there were whitecaps. The 21' Dusky handled it well and kept us dry; however, I think next time we will go for the 23' cruiser.

The 20 mile or so ride took and hour or so, and I think we only saw one sailboat the entire time. As we pulled into TC Harbor, it was like a ghost town. About a 1/10th of the slips were filled, and the bar/pool area was closed. We didn't figure we would be kicked out, so we tied up close and headed through the complex.

There were many workers, but nothing we could see was open. We headed towards the beach and stumbled upon the Blue Cove Bar on the beach. They were open and we ordered a cold Kalik.

I guess in any disaster area it's the same. People still want a drink. They also were serving burgers! We ordered and also met Fred. He is from Argentina via Switzerland, and now lives in Abaco part time. I believe he and his wife post on the board. He joined us and we talked of Francis, Jeanne, the Presidential debates. He told us that as a youth, he had been jailed by Peron. Although only 30 minutes from Marsh Harbour, most in TC were eager to know its condition.

We also met Berke and Sandy from Michigan. They have a condo in TC and had come down just before Jeanne hit (their first time down in September). The food and the company was great. A few shops were open we learned, and the beach had just been cleaned of debris the day before. We decided to take advantage of this once in a lifetime opportunity: Being the only people on this incredible 3-mile beach.

While a few of the palaypas were down and the huge metal drum (if anyone is familiar with that) was in a different location, the beach was likely no different from its usual condition.

It was just beautiful. It is a view neither of us are soon to forget.

We swam and lazed for a bit, embedding the time in our memories. What could be better, we thought? (well, we would find out on Saturday.)

We packed up and went back by the bar to say goodbye, and also leave our mark. Seems people write there names on the walls, so if you are ever there, look west and up from the middle of the table area. You may see "The Honeymoon Couple" etched in the wooden crossbeam.

We did find one open gift shop and bought a few mementos. Although they still had no power, they trusted our credit card would go through. Bless them (since we were low on cash ;-)

We headed back in the late afternoon. Once again, my bride decided to captain, allowing me the opportunity to sit and stare at the glorious surroundings. Once again, we didn't encounter another vessel until we neared Elbow Cay.

There seemed to be more activity in Hope Town as we docked for the evening (and checked and rechecked our lines). There were a few more guests at the Lodge and the wedding party for Saturday were around.

We did our usual routine: a shower, a drink, a bit of time on the deck watching the water, and then went to dinner. Lights out by 9pm.

Photos

The Blue Cove Bar at TC
TC left
TC right
TC us

[flyingdogs]

y'all are SO cute!

[carol]

You guys are poster children for all of Abaco! MAny thanks!

[elcahun]

We woke up early to catch the sunrise over the Atlantic, but there was a bit of cloud cover. So back to bed for a bit. Finally got up mid-morning and did our usual routine of coffee on the deck.

The phones to the mainland came back up so the first thng we did was extend our honeymoon an extra day. After all the grief trying to get here Continental made the change with no charge. So we have one more day in Paradise.

Today we plan on heading to Great Guana Cay. The wind is up a bit but there's no nasty-looking clouds on the horizon. We pack the boat (and today it is not under the dock) and head over for gas. $140 later we head back to the Lodge for more cash since their credit card machine was not yet working.

My Bride, in her infinate wisdom, brought a lot more cash than I did. IÍve grown too accustomed to the ATM. Even in wilderness areas in the US there seems to be one somewhere. But not this week...DOH.

The ride over was definitely the bumpiest so far, and reinforced my desire for a bigger boat next time. But the beer was cold and the sea spray was refreshing. Saw a couple more boats on the water too.

We pulled into the Settlement and tied up at Nipper's Dock. There was damage to some of the moorage but didn't look nearly as bad as in MH and HT. We headed up the path to Nipper's, encountering several friendly locals along the way. I did notice that "The Fig Tree" was bare of any leaves.

We were finally at The Place we had heard, read, and saw so many pictures of: Nipper's! And once again we were the only ones there. The place was in fine shape it seemed, although the pool had been drained. We ordered Nipper's Punches from Pat the Bartenderess and (finally!) Cheeseburgers from Rosemary the Cook. The day was beautiful and the breeze delightful.

After lunch we went into the gift shop. They had a great selection of stuff and since it was likely the only stocked and open store (and they were accepting credit cards) we would likely find, did a majority of our gift shopping there. Bought an original painting by one of the local artists, some prints, shirts, jewlery, and a few other knick-knacks.

We may have been the only customers that day, but my Bride made up for it. The saleslady even came out after us and gave us some free sets of playing cards with 'Nippers, Abcao' printed on them. We ordered another round and met Bobby, one of the Cay's residents.

After chatting for a bit we headed back to the boat. I bought a case of Kalik, of course. We went over to Pat W.'s store but there was no one there. Just wanted to introduce ourselves. Next time, I guess.

Back on the water we headed to Baker's Bay. There was on sailboat moored on the far south end but other than that no signs of life. We dropped anchor close to the dock. We just were in awe over the beauty that surrounded us. BakerÍs is truly a magical spot.

I was busy putting a few things away and grabbing the camera when I heard a splash, looked up, and saw my Bride, sans suit, floating in the ice-clear water. Not wanting to appear prudish, I quickly joined her with a couple cold Kaliks.

I would have to say that this moment was the most perfect one of the honeymoon.

To be continued...

Photos

Pat, Rosemary, Bobby at Nipper's
Helping with the Clean-up
The Fig Tree in background
My Bride at Baker's Bay

[Abacoparrott]

Bakers Bay moment.........

[elcahun]

After a good time in the water we decided to take a trek into the "DisneyLand" that was still there.

Now, we are not stupid people, but apparantly, we have that gene in us. Although we had plenty of deet spray on the boat, we forgoed it.

We followed the trail up to the former bar and outdoor theater area. It wasn't long before Beth noticed she was covered with blood-sucking insects. I too, had a few on me, but they don't have the same need for Swedish blood, I guess.

As i was taking a few photos, my bride was doing the best imitation of Jesse Owens she could muster. I turned around and all I saw were tree branches swaying. No wife in sight.

I made it back to the beach and found her in the water. Her white cover-up had about a dozen or so large red splotches on it. If you didn't know better, you'd swear she had been shot with an Uzi. Thankfully, none of the hits were fatal, and i grabbed the "Bug Stick" and rapidly applied it to my brides's many wounds.

(If you don't have a Bug Stick, get one at REI. Works like magic.)

Not being a doctor, I suggested another Kalik and some Vernon's bread to ease the itchiness. It seemed to work.

The day was drawing to a close so we lifted anchor and headed back to HT. The seas were still a little rough but again the ride was fun. In the last couple days we had learned to look for the lighthouse. Aiming towards it was even a better idea. Soon we were pulling back up to the HL dock.

We were told Sea Spray was now open so we made our reservations for dinner and began our routine: a drink, some relaxation on the deck, a shower, another drink, more mindless time looking at the ocean, and then the harbor. A perfect time.

We were picked up around seven and while it was dark, we still were able to see where the road had almost been knocked out. From what we understand the concerns over future storms may move it to the west side. Got to Sea Spray and quite a few people were there. Because of the earlier incident with bugs we chose to sit inside.

The food was just great, although we were truly on Bahama time. I think they had to find the chicken and chase it down after cutting off its head. But no worries and while we love the Lodge, having a different place to chill for the evening was nice. Heck, being in another place with power was a treat.

And once again, we found ourselves surrounded by locals and others who were eager to move on after Jeanne.

We rode home and took a short walk on the beach. Our time in Abaco was drawing to a close. There had been a wedding today on the point just north, and the celebration was continuing. The pool area was slowly transforming. A few more lights were on than the night before. We again considered ourselves blessed for being here.

Photos

Baker's
Baker's with our boat
Relaxing on the balcony
Palms around the HL after trimming

[George McR]

Jeff

When you get return your boat to Troy at Blue Wave - if you can - would you tell him that I will be in MH on November 3rd around mid-day to collect the 24' Ocean Pro that I had booked for Nov 3rd to 13th.

Thank you, George McRobbie

[elcahun]

Our last full day in the Abacos. Seems like we just arrived.

We awoke to another beautiful day and spent the early morning doing some light packing and lazing on the deck. Then we cleaned up the boat and prepared to return it to Marsh Harbour. Being a Sunday, it was very quiet around the Lodge. Tom was able to find us a mask and snorkel, so we planned on coming back to swim and sun on the beach that afternoon. Unfortunately, no one had any snorkel gear available during the week, so we'll have to save that for next trip. (But a great reason to come back.)

We headed the boat back at a leisurely pace, trying to mentally capture all the beauty surrounding us. As I'd mentioned before, I had never seen waters like the Sea of Abaco, with its multitude of colors. Any description or picture simply can't do it justice.

As we approached the docks on Marsh Harbour, you could quickly see that much progress had been made. Most debris had been removed. And we had gotten used to the sight of few boats or people around. Troy at Harbour View/Blue Wave had completely removed his docks and Snappa's had been completely razed. Mango's, Sapodilly's, The Lofty Fig and Conch Inn were all closed. And the boat was still on the side of the road.

We met Troy and turned in the boat. He still had no power so he took our phone number and said he'd be calling us in a month or so to settle up. Didn't even want a credit card number, since he had no way of running it. What a guy!

Being Sunday, everything was closed and we had an hour or so to kill before the ferry, so we went over and visited with Sid at the Lofty Fig for a bit. He'd started clean up but still was awaiting power. Same with the Conch Inn. They were drying out the rooms and the outdoor bar was open for a couple cold beers. Chatted with the owner for a bit then grabbed a taxi to the ferry.

There was another couple there who had just arrived, and were heading to Hope Town to get their sailboat for a barefoot cruise. They were from San Francisco and it was their first time in the Abacos. Of course, we sounded like the "Old Experts" after being here for five days, and we tried to fill them in on what we had encountered. Once the ferry took off they quickly developed the "Abaco Stare" of looking out at the water and surrounding environment. Both my bride and I could relate.

Also on the ferry were a couple that live on a sailboat in the area (I can't recall the name...need to find their card.) They have been here for several years and were heading to HT to see how it had made out after Jeanne.

Once back we headed to the beach for some sun and swimming, spending most of the afternoon just enjoying doing nothing. We were able to do a little snorkeling but the water was a little rough and still didn't seem as clear as it could be. But the life around the reefs was still impressive. Some local kids and adults came out for a swim and it was just fun to sit back and watch them play. For all the headaches and work they had been through, I'm sure they deserved it.

Like it always seems to be, just about the time you relax completely and get in the swing of the vacation, it's time to leave. We planned a later dinner, so we stopped in to Ray's Place for some conch fritters and a cocktail. Then back to the room to enjoy our last Abaco sunset.

We finally dragged ourselves into the shower and downstairs for dinner. Sat in the bar for a bit talking with other guests and locals. Was a good crowd for a Sunday night. We were having so much fun we forgot about dinner. Finally about a half-hour late the waitress "made" us go to eat. We both decided to have the lobster to celebrate our final night.

Imagine our surprise and delight when a large bottle of champagne was delivered to our table, compliments of the owners, Mr. Ray and his wife Catherine. We don't know if it was because we were honeymooning or the first tourists back after Jeanne, but it was greatly appreciated and made us feel very special.

From what I remember, the lobster was delicious and we made it back to the room without falling.

Photos

Daybreak
On the beach
The Lodge
Just your typical sunset.

[norvell]

Have thoroughly enjoyed your honeymoon trip reports, positive attitude, and wonderful photos! And...I will have to borrow your phrase "Abaco stare".
That is a good one.

[elcahun]

a couple notes...

The couple on the ferry were Dave and Barbara. The boat is the "Chablis" and I am not sure if its a sailboat or not.

Also my apologies to Mr. Ray and his wife at the HL. My bride says Mrs. Ray's name is Barbara. (I hope I haven't offened in any way on this.)

And I left out Karen the Bartenderess (who presented our bottle of champagne), Lisa and Candice in the office, Nancy the Schoolteacher in Hopetown we had a delightful talk with, and the young lad who was our busboy every night. (I must be suffering from halfheimers.)

I was too late to edit the last post...

[elcahun]

A friend wanted to read this so I had to do a google search and post so they coupld find it.