...I miss my mind the most! I have been busy, and this time, some of it was fun! A wedding, spending time with family, and a trip to the beach. The photos are of Coquina Beach, south of here in Bradenton. Seems like all northern relatives want to go to the beach- not that I blame them!





The water was warm (over 80 degrees)and it is so clear one can see one's toes in waist-deep water. The beach is white sand and a ridge of sea oats separates the beach from the picnic area, which is under shady pine trees.

All of the thoughts I had for things to mention in my next post have plum escaped my mind. Must be 'old-timers' setting in.

I am getting ready for our District Conference. Yes, I will be receiving an award, but I will also be very busy. I am presenting one training session and have to pick up the awards for our district's newsletters that won in our district newsletter competition. Only publications that win at district level can enter the National competition, and I think I already mentioned that one of our flotilla newsletters also won at National level. I am so proud of this guy! He works his butt off and cannot even attend the conference to receive his award because he cares for an aging and invalid relative.

I wish I could tell you the stories about some of our members. They are incredible people from all walks of life; every socio-economic level, race and culture. The only thing some of us have in common is our commitment to the Coast Guard and the Coast Guard Auxiliary. They are true Patriots. Saturday we had a special flag raising (half mast) in honor of 9-11 before a training. It was moving beyond belief to see so many grown men tear up -try as they might to hide it! I am so proud to know them; to be counted as one of their ranks.

By the way- those of you that are looking for volunteer opportunities that are both meaningful and will accomodate your busy schedule, consider the Coast Guard Auxiliary. You can contribute as little as four hours a month (most flotillas hope you will give ten hours a month but will accept whatever you can give)and you might save a life, either indirectly through boater education, or directly on the water.