Cheers to NYANGO (and Isla)

by Michelle George

After 8 glorious weeks aboard NYANGO the time came for me to leave. It wasn’t what I wanted but I’d already worn out my welcome, by weeks!!! I have a 97 year old Mother who had been chomping at the bit for me to return and Randall needed his space!!!
Being in Isla again was just heavenly. I love that little island as I have everywhere else we’d been. I like to think I’m adaptable anywhere- I credit this to having grown up overseas and being uprooted to different continents.
I have spent many an hour on every boat Randall, Tammy and family have had. I treasure every bit of it, even the ones where we had some pretty hairy situations- those get buried under the blessed moments we share. I have left them physically but my heart is still there.
There aren’t enough words in my vocabulary to express the gratitude I feel for being allowed to join you on this trip, and every other one. I am overcome with joy. You guys are the best and I am forever indebted.
I love people, I love hugging strangers and asking people their names although I may never see them again. I love engaging with folks who end up telling me some pretty personal stuff. I can spend hours talking to anyone. Randall, Tammy and Jake allowed me to do this. Jake at one point did tell me I didn’t have to introduce him to everyone- that was ok because I have a brother who tells me the same thing. I worked hard on this tho I may have done it a few more times!!!
In the past, Randall has given me a list of things we needed or questions to be answered. He knows I’m always eager to help, and visit, and he allows me this luxury. Randall likes his space and comes across as quiet and perhaps shy. He’s every bit of this but he really tolerates me!!! He lets me spend most of our meals visiting with our food servers- we even had Gary abandon his shift, sit and drink a beer while he told us the tragic story of just having lost his son 6 months earlier. I hope Randall is managing well without me there!!!
Tammy is my bestie. She is someone I greatly respect and admire. She’s so easygoing and never gets uptight. Over the 20 yrs I’ve known her, every time Randall came up with plans to remodel a home or get a different boat, she was all over it. She’s also a great artist and draws everywhere she goes. Murals are her love and i definitely see those in her future. She’s also very funny and I laugh at things she’s said even when we’re apart. I miss you, Mate.
Jake is a special soul. I think when they invited him they thought they’d include me. Don’t think they thought he and I’d be there so long!!! Jake is a very talented artist and great singer- love his voice. He’s got a sweet and tender soul and easy to be around. I wish nothing but the best for my buddy.
I thank you guys for EVERYTHING.
Cheers, Mates