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Athena of Southampton - Athena log 11



Athena log 11 – Friday December 13th 2013 – 15 36.84 N / 55 51.51 W

Why is it the last few miles of any journey seem to stretch, is it the anticipation of what? A long shower with unlimited water?  Or maybe the thought of a beer or a meal sat at a table that doesn’t move, that steady meal which doesn’t need lifelong curled arm around the plate to prevent the food joining previous meals in the bin.

 The curled arm locked around the square plate dates back to Nelson’s day. This necessary habit was often used as evidence by the press gang to prove a man was a sailor, or had been. Hence the common wail of modern day mums “sit up straight, get your elbows off the table” So not a measure of manners, but an ancient ruse to fool those who would offer the Kings shilling.

As another crossing comes to an end for me there is a measure of sadness, softened by the promise of a crew and friends meal in the best restaurant in St Lucia and probably the Caribbean RAZZAMATAZ!!  This delightful venue with a fabulous Himalayan chef and the established professional team supervised by Susan the lovely owner. Incongruously when her husband was alive he would sit and play country and western guitar, so unlikely but so very quaint.

Sadness because after many crossings, and a seventieth birthday looming will there be many more? If I have my way yes oh yes it is so good to be part of a wise and critical crew. A crew of mathematicians and philosophers in equal share, of those who take the busy lead in any task or those, like me who will take the tired measured approach but eh age must have some benefits.

Those of you who read these Blogs, or in our case Boggs, for five members are Irish and me the lone but happy Welshman, we wish to let you know that over the few days Sunday or Monday we will be in the above restaurant dining and singing a short medley of well-practiced Irish and other tunes.

So lift a glass me hearties to the crew of Athena of Southampton and safe home to Rodney Bay

Taff Pearce.


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