June 9-12                                                      North Kingstown, Rhode Island

We finalized plans to leave the boat at Wickford Shipyard.  All repairs and projects were scheduled to be completed before our return on July 4.  Suitcases for our 21-day trip to Europe were packed before leaving Fort Worth.  They were filled with clothing for the cool weather anticipated in Scotland, warm weather in St. Petersburg and festive occasions on the cruise ship.  At the last minute, I added even more (I like options!)

On June 10, David’s persistent cough became an issue that could not be ignored.  We went to a local clinic and tests indicated an infection and possible blood clots in his lungs.  We were instructed to go to the hospital for a cat scan.  The staff were quite concerned about the abnormal test results and David received considerable attention.  We were reluctantly reconciling ourselves to canceling our long-planned European trip when the doctor returned with the surprising news the tests had been incorrect.  There was no blood clot and the infection would be treated with medication.  He was released from the hospital with prescriptions! 

Miller arrived early on June 12 and we decided to depart for the airport to give us ample time to return the rental car, check in luggage and relax before boarding.  Miller hefted the bags, placed them in the trunk of the car, and slammed shut the trunk lid.  On his return to the boat, he stumbled on the boat ladder and dropped the car keys into the water.  We had no other keys and the rental car company informed us they had none.  Miller hastily made the journey to his home, retrieved diving gear and returned to make many futile attempts to locate the keys.  AAA was called to open the car doors and they arrived just as Miller, with David’s help, located the keys.  With joy and excitement, we left for the airport!

Several hours later, we boarded the plane.  We were astonished finally to be on our way!