Today began with rain that persisted for most of the morning. We decided to take advantage of a freebee service from our marina that provides a ride to the closest grocery store and back (too far to walk). Our slip neighbors went with us and we were able to load up on some fresh fruits and vegetables.

The rain held off till we got back, and then Paula prepared our snack contribution to a “Hurricane party” we were invited to later in the afternoon on the boat next to us. As the day wore on, the rain got heavier and the winds rose, the effects of Matthew now beginning to reach us. The party was great (there were six of us), and it helped relieve some anxiety about what was happening outside. Looks like we may all now be here until Tuesday.

We are very lucky thus far that the strong winds we are now getting are coming out of the north. There is a big 200 foot private yacht parked directly to the north of us and is blocking most of that wind. We are also shielded by a few big buildings from that direction, a benefit of being in a city marina. The wave screen employed by this marina also seems to be doing its job.

It will be a long night of this, but is supposed to finally clear out by late morning tomorrow.