The Dog Show at Mallory Square

We headed to Mallory Square for the sunset festivities. Jack, Con and Chrissy all participated in the dog show act while I took pictures:


First, Chrissy helped tie a man in chains. We weren't too sure what this had to do with a dog act, but it was fun anyway.




Next, Jack and another girl held the hoop for the dogs to jump through.





For the grand finale, the dog
walked the tightrope,

and claimed a ten dollar bill from Con's mouth.

Tranquility Bay

We spend the first few days lounging poolside at Tranquility Bay, a relatively new resort in Marathon. One of the few resorts with a secluded private beach, the property has two pools, an 18 hole Jack Nicholas putting green, and a fantastic Tiki bar on the beach.

We made the mistake of first going to the adults only pool. We quickly realized our error and moved to the main pool, a lagoon style swimming pool with lots of shade for Con to lounge and read. For lunch, we visited the beach side Tiki bar, TJ's, where you can create your own tropical drink. We opted for Rum Punch, their signature drink which includes a floater of 151 rum on the top.

Chrissy met a very cute young man who ran the water-sports activities and was totally infatuated with her. He offered her a private jet ski lesson, which she declined.

Winter Break in Marathon

When Continental announced they would start flying to Marathon, Florida, we immediately booked a flight to Grace and Phil's. Connecting through Fort Meyers we hopped a Cape Air "shuttle" to Marathon. I was expecting a small plane but wasn't quite prepared for a nine passenger Cessna , a single pilot flying by instruments alone, and a pre-flight weigh in (including all carry on luggage) to determine the proper weight dispersion. Even the Gerber corporate jet had a copilot and open seating.

Jack and Chissy, being the lightest, took the back seats with Con and I over the wings. We took off at sunset, with spectacular views of the Gulf of Mexico. As the sky changed to complete darkness, I was, for the first time, completely petrified. For the next forty-five minutes, I clutched Con's hand tightly. When the lights of Marathon runway finally became visible, I was able to release my kung fu grip and breathe a sigh of relief.