Thanks to everyone who researched the handicapped parking situation for me. We were on island last week and, it turns out, there really isn't much in the way of restricted parking in most places. We did the drop off and park thing but I have to admit that the lack of parking did seriously curtail our activities, especially in Cruz Bay. Too bad, too, because I really wanted to spend some money. 😉

We ended up eating dinner only twice at restaurants (Morgan's Mango and The Fish Trap -- both were very good). We had lunch a couple of times at the Ocean Grille at Mongoose Junction (loved the shrimp BLT). Otherwise, we ate at "home." Luckily, the groceries from Starfish Market were really good quality and only a bit more expensive than at home. Their deli items were scrumptious and the fresh shrimp we bought there were far nicer than what I get here in Florida. Our villa, Sea Turtle Villa, was lovely and very comfortable and the full kitchen and gas grill on the patio made mealtime a snap.

We spent a day on the Stormy Petrel, visiting the Baths and doing a snorkel at Norman Island. Captain Gaelin and Mate Sunny were great and our boatmates were a lot of fun. There, again, the knee was problematic. The Baths is *not* handicapped accessible. I was able to do part of the tour but had to drop out for the last half. I guess I need to learn to ask in advance. The trip was still very enjoyable, regardless.

What didn't I like? Well, I'm from Florida and I understand the tropics and rain but that doesn't mean I want it all day every day when I'm on vacation (of course I'm not blaming y'all for that).

The resulting mosquitoes were just really unbelievable. You have some super mosquitoes. Here, when the wind blows, the mosquitoes don't bother you. They can't fly against the breeze. Your guys must eat their Wheaties! The breeze didn't even slow them down! Lucky for me, I bought suntan lotion with DEET in it. It works really well, if anyone is interested.

The roads on the south side of the island are really scary. They're narrow and windey, crumbly and slippery when wet and traveled by some impatient cowboy types who use tailgating for intimidation. But the views on that side were fabulous and when the sun was out, sitting on our villa's terrace with a nice cold drink and an ocean full of boats in front of me made it worth the drive.

By the way, we got home from St. John and it began to rain. It's been five days now and it hasn't quit yet. Did I bring it with me? Please don't tell me that St. John has been sunny and clear since I left.