After observing that 20-25 mile an hour winds on the nose might be more than enough fun, Dan and Old Geezer waited out the weather in Panama City. In the interim, we explored the area by land, stopping frequently for refreshments. On east bay, we were treated to a long and spectacular display of dolphins chasing mullet. The show was so impressive that we raised repeated toasts to them.
 
The end of the week promised better conditions, so on Tuesday afternoon the Expeditionary Force, augmented by Pam, set out for Carrabelle. Our first stop was at Mexico Beach, where we grabbed lunch at Toucan's, which is under new management. The previous owner is currently incarcerated, and the establishment is now in the hands of the IRS. The food and service were unexpectedly good, and we left a generous tip. I'm sure that it will be reported as income.
 
Moving east, we checked out Apalachicola, and then watched for hiding places along Dan's intended route. At Carrabelle, Dan picked The Moorings as his jumping off point. It is a first rate facility, and the people there were friendly, helpful, and well supplied with local knowledge. It is within walking distance of most everything you'll need, and power and water is at the slips.
 
The ramp is excellent, with a dog alongside for loading. The current was healthy when Dan backed out, but we walked his lines, and his departure from there was uneventful.
 
The slip the staff had selected for Dan and Old Geezer is in the shelter of the motel and parking lot. To say that it is unprotected is an understatement- It is hard to imagine a more sheltered place to wait out the weather.
 
After hearing Dan's assurances that he would be on the lookout for his cousin, we headed back west. Our departure was hastened by the fact that the setting sun marked suppertime for the no-see-ums. I hope Dan was not on their menu.  —Steve Haines