Happy 2012 and Goodbye 2011!

 Finally we can kiss off 2011. It was a rough year for the market, and for us, a difficult year to cross the Gulf Stream. We've been in Hope Town a full week now and the notion that we are here has crept into our minds allowing us to relax. We don't have all of the concerns over the weather and the boat delivered us safely.
 So we struck out to see how Elbow Cay fared in consideration of Hurricane Irene. I know that between Irene and Tropical Storm Lee many lives were left in waste, and we saw plenty of it when we drove out to Sayre Pa. just after Lee left that area. A major arterial Route 17 was underwater in many places and closed to traffic between Vestal and Elmira NY. The devastation that was brought upon so much of the East Coast and inland areas of the United States by those two storms is mind boggling. Our hearts go out to those that have and are still living a nightmare as a result. But now we are in a different environment and let's face it, a direct hit by a hurricane here is as significant but fortunately it does affect less people.
 However Elbow Cay seems to have survived in style! From what we have seen the beaches have some weak spots and serious erosion but by and large they managed to avoid destruction the likes of which New York and other New England states saw. The worst of this storm damage is focused at the cliff road leading South to the Abaco Inn, and the beach area just North of Sea Spray. The roads are safe and open but there are some pot holes and other repairs that are still needed. The locals have responded quickly to make restorations that can be depended on.   
 In spite of the bad weather, the Hope Town Inn and Marina is quickly taking shape and we look forward to the point that it comes online completely. It's going to be a very special stop for mariners willing to make their way to the Abacos and for a number of reasons. It is well located with regard to Marsh Harbour and it is in central Hope Town. Everything is a short dink away across the Hope Town Harbour and there are many facilities within the harbour that cater to travelers. It's going to put a stamp on the Abacos for sure.
 Since we were held up in Florida for an extended stay we had some extra expenses and we have to curtail some of the extra spending on dining out. In support of this we immediately ate out at the Edge, Sea Spray, The Reef Bar, Cracker P's and we also celebrated New Years Eve at the Hope Town Harbour Lodge. Maybe next week we'll settle down but some steam had to be let out and it was worth it.
 Friday evening we were fortunate enough to hitch a ride down to Tahiti Beach where many folks reviewed the fireworks display John Bull puts on for everyone. It was a great show and a lead in to the New Year's Eve festivities that take place in Hope Town. Up at the Reef Bar we had dinner and a D.J. along with all sorts of party favors revolving around a theme based on the Blues Brothers. Everyone had stern faces and cheap sunglasses on making for a fun evening. At midnight we sat on one of the porches overlooking the harbour and were treated to a great fireworks display put on by the Lodge. It was full of color and noise and right in our faces. Once in a while the wind shifted carrying the display overhead.
 After the fireworks everyone joined in with the Junkanoo parade that marched all around Hope Town and then back to the Lodge where free champagne was waiting for us. Not too shabby.
 With that, we hope everyone has a Happy Healthy and Prosperous New Year. Let's all make 2012 better than the past!
  Some extra photos are in the bucket here Photo Bucket Link
 The Garmin Tracks are up to date excepting perhaps the Lubber's dink ride. I have to create a new file for 2012 yet.