Spring 2022 in Punta Gorda

 Time in wonderful Punta Gorda Isles flies by and this year is no exception.  

In February, I (Joanne) finished my year as Fleet Chaplin at IYC.  I was happy to pass the role onto the capable hands of our friend, David Pflantz. 

At the Change of Watch

Farewell Party on Michelle's lovely lanai

Also, in February, our Friendship Force Club welcomed its first Inbound Journey visitors since before the pandemic.  We had a great time time with mid west clubs - Detroit, Ohio, Wisconsin and others.  Although we did not house any visitors this time, we had fun attending events.  We will especially remember the FareWell Party at Michelle Kemps because we took our visitors there via pontoon boat.  They were delighted to land at Michelle's Peace River Dock and walk up to the festivities on her expansive lanai.

Farewell Party ride on Pontoon

At Welcome Party in Ft Myers

In March, I participated in the St Vincent de Paul Fashion Show.  Dr. Jonelle McDonnell asked me to dress as a character from the Outlander's Series.  That certainly was novel and fun!

Me and Jonnelle in our Outlander Costumes

We had a sensational time hosting our friends, Pam & Stan Sackett from FF of West Michigan.  They stayed for a week and we became educated about Tesla cars.  Stan made a terrific video of my Mom riding down Lido Drive in it. (Search utube for Marie, Stan and his Tesla) We also took them on Lickity Split to a Kite Flying Contest in Pelican Bay where I received the Women's Trophy!

Joanne won trophy for kite flying

Richard and I placed second in a charity contest at the Isles Yacht Club.  We had very stiff competition and we were delighted to advance to such bocce heights!

We were surprised to win this bocce
competition & advanced to the Finals

Contance made a gorgeous birthday cake!

I celebrated my birthday at Cousin Constance's home.  She treated us to a fabulous chicken dinner and cake.  Later, I enjoyed dinner at Carmello's.  We entered Bleu Kitty in the local newspaper's Pet Palooza's contest.  He certainly received a few of the votes.  

Bleu Kitty is 11 yrs old now

In April we had a wonderful Easter at Isles Yacht Club and enjoyed a first ever Easter Egg Hunt and a delicious buffet.  

Mom with Richard & I at the Isles YC Easter

We also cruised with IYC to Useppa Island for a fabulous weekend there.  It's been over 4 years since we visited this special cruising destination.

Lovely Useppa Island

Evening sunset over Useppa Dock

                           Mother's Day with Mom at Easter Buffet at Isles Yacht Club