Triumph underway to Cyprus

Friday, May 18, 2007

We are underway to Cyprus...two hours down and 16 to go. It is so easy and comfortable with crew aboard, I dread the day they leave us in Israel.

Bad news today. An Unfortunate Fall in Alanya, Turkey Henry, captain of Tapestry (our buddy boat last year) fell down stairs in his boat and torn a muscle. He is undergoing surgery at the moment to repair it, but will be hospitalized in Alanya, Turkey for three nights and casted for weeks. An disappointing end to their rally participation.

On the positive side, we had a Group Four pot luck on a big local boat in port two nights ago. We had a good meal with lots of wine, song and dance. The Swedes brought an accordion and had us all swaying with them to the rhythm of their songs. The Brits brought a ukelele and a harmonica, and led us in singing many British songs. The Germans and Americans sang their country's songs a cappella with foot stomping and clapping. What a fun night.

Last night we were picked up by bus and taken to the Red Tower in Alanya for a lovely cocktail party, then transported again to a beautiful outdoor site for a formal dinner. We were the American flag barriers during the flag ceremony. Again, a great band and dancing.

Gail, Frank and I went to town this morning for market day. We absolutely love to see the Turkish men and women in traditional dress selling their just-picked produce. We loaded up again on mulberries, Malta fruit, melons, strawberries and oranges. Fairwinds, D&E