Laura’s 9pm Wednesday update

Our final day on the inlet started off with a jolt; I texted the homeowner to see what preparations were necessary for tomorrow’s departure and was told that our reservation ended today. And omg, she was right! The seven of us raced to clear out, but within minutes, our host - thankfully - texted that she was able to postpone the maintenance crew until tomorrow. We finished our coffee, ate breakfast, and soon Jack’s friends departed for Asheville leaving Bryan, Jack and Elli, and I to combine relaxation with intermittent clean up. Early heat gave way to storms that rolled in mid afternoon. Jack and Elli finally taught me to play chess: a promise that was made when Liza arrived at Mayo a month ago. Between showers, I ran outside to check for rainbows but none ever appeared. 

This evening, we boated across the inlet with the intention of ultimately dining at a nearby restaurant. But Bryan’s goal was to first get to us to a natural area free of houses; however, an unanticipated cold wind was working against us. After a bit, we gave up and Bryan turned the boat around. In front of us, over the restaurant, was my awaited rainbow reaching high into the clouds. 

After dinner just as the sun set, we rode back to the house guided by light of the lighthouse. Jack spotted dolphins in the inlet and we slowed the boat to get a closer look. With the silhouette and lights of St Augustine in the background, we watched several pairs of dolphins rise and dive around us. At one point a pair surfaced within five feet of our boat. If my newly-gifted book, Signs, is correct, Liza was at play tonight letting us know that she is right beside us. 

We’re now back at the house ready to snuggle up with one another and the beloved Beane for one last movie: Peanut Butter Falcon. I’ve never seen it but I’m assured that I’ll love it. I suspect that Edie and Liza will too. ❗️🌧️ 🌈 🐬 💛