The Christmas Spirit

Let me give you an example of why Dave and I have decided to stay in Oriental. They have the Spirit of Christmas here. It begins today. Cookies, cider, refreshments, open houses this afternoon and then an evening of luminary delight. Candles in paper bags lining the streets. The town is decorated with lights, wreaths and signs, Joy Joy Joy. There will be two boat parades beginning at 5pm,
 one for decorated kayaks, canoes and paddle boats and a second flotilla for larger boats, all decorated with lights from stem to stern. Then there is the Pamlico High School Choir who will lead the citizens in caroling while the star at the head of the harbor is lit. There is a Chorale of Christmas music at the Methodist Church and a Christmas pageant at the local theater. That's just today. Tomorrow there is more. A parade on Broad Street, open houses serving a variety of food, wine tasting, book signings and if you missed it the first time there is more music scheduled for Saturday evening. Now this is what I call Christmas Spirit and its just one reason for us to stay.

Reason number 2- at noon today a gentleman named Keith showed up at the boat with a box of wires, antenna, routers, and other paraphernalia. He proceeded to set up a WIFI system for me. Now it should be explained that I didn't ask or mention it at the coffee shop, he just came by and said, "Since you are staying the winter I thought it may be easier for you to have WIFI on the boat." No charge. I can now post on my blogger site, pick up email, pay bills and check out FB without leaving the Richard & Arnold. A couple of days ago I traveled three miles to the Yacht Club to use their internet to pay some bills, but then it got late and I didn't get to write to my friends. So now - watch out- you'll be hearing from me on a regular basis.

Oh, I paid Keith with reason # 3.
This morning some local fishermen were unloading their catch and Dave being who he is, went over to the boat to help with the offloading. The fisherman gave him a bag of shrimp, about four pounds. I cleaned them and put three bags in the freezer and one in the fridge for supper. Keith got one of the bags. Its the least I could do. Thank you Keith, it works like a charm!
I'm sure that the Spirit of Christmas is in all your hearts whether you know it or not, but here in Oriental there seems to be real effort to show it. God Bless you all,  now, during the holidays and always.  Fair Winds.