The "SXM Visual Memories: #3" Story

"Old Glory" waves proudly outside LDubs house!

Foreword:  Today is Memorial Day in the United State of America.  The day we set aside to remember all those who died while serving in our country's armed forces.  The holiday, known first as Decoration Day, originated on the last Monday in May back in 1868 after the American Civil War ended.  The Grand Army of the Republic, an organization of Union veterans began it in Decatur, Illunois. Today, we honor those who died for our country with parades, flowers on gravesides and family celebrations.  I wish to make special note of my good friend and neighbor, Thomas Legath, who proudly served in the Vietnam War and died recently from an illness associated with his combat duty.  May we all remember those who have served to protect our nation.

  It was an ordinary day.  Final day of the photographs I took during our stay in St. Martin this spring.  Many visitors to the Caribbean make their voyage during the winter months to escape the cold temperatures and bad weather of the USA and Canada.  Carol and I traveled to the Caribbean twice during the winter months, but had problems both times with travel to the airport in the snowy weather we encountered.  We finally decided to postpone the vacation until spring to avoid the chance of flight cancellation as well as being able to take advantage of "Off-Season" prices on most Caribbean islands.  For instance, on the island of St. Martin, the price of accommodations and car rental are usually one-half the cost of the "In-Season" prices.  The date they change is traditionally April 15.  So we can rent a villa on the island of St. Martin for 20 days for the price of 15 during the "In-Season."  A no-brainer for us!  Also, the trade winds are considerably less in force during the spring and you don't have to eat quite as much sand on the beach.  The water temperature is also slightly warmer, but for many that isn't a concern since the temperature in the winter is usually above 80 degrees anyway.  Well, my final edition of photos to share with you were taken during our recent vacation and I hope you find one or more that you enjoy.  Remember to click on the images to enlarge them.  It was another extraordinary day in the life of an ordinary guy.