Sunrise over Bimini

Just like each of the previous days, the sun was going to rise over Bimini.  But Sunday wasn't "any other day".  It was Easter Sunday!

We set the alarm to be up bright and early.  What a treat it was to watch the sun come up in the still and peace of the morning!   

There were no distractions.  There was no pomp and circumstance.  We reflected on the meaning of Easter, appreciating the sacrifices and gifts, in our own personal way.

After another beach walk and breakfast, we were able to catch a few more rays by the pool before heading to the airport.

Knowing there would be minimal (um, non-existent) opportunities for food and beverage, we had lunch before calling for a taxi. 

Upon checking in, the agent told us there was a problem with the plane and they had to divide it into two flights, in smaller planes. We would be on the second flight leaving at 4:30pm.  No problem.  We were on the list so it was all good.  We had our books and thankfully packed a few cold drinks.  We selected a spot in the corner and waited.  "No worries, Mon."

The scheduled departure time (4:30) came and went.  It was a little after 5:00 before the first group was called to their flight.  Keep in mind the airport was pretty tiny and the a/c wasn't working.  (Looking back, we should have sat outside where it was breezy, but the seating wouldn't have been very comfortable.)  5:30 came and went.  Now I was getting a little anxious.  Were we going to make it home tonight?

There was a bit of commotion in the waiting area.  Some people changed their flight at the last minute and weren't on the list.  Some people had been told their flight had been changed from noon to 4:00 but nobody could find a record of that.  There were 11 people waiting for a flight on a plane that only held 9 people, and two of the eleven were Mr and Mrs LARGE. 

Finally, the captain of the plane that was to take us back to Ft. Lauderdale came into the waiting area.  We were told to point out our luggage and they would start loading it.  He sized everyone up and assigned seats.  We were packed in like sardines, but we were on the plane and we were heading home!

A very smooth twenty-five minute flight.

But we didn't touch down at the same place we took off, which I guess was because we had to clear Customs.  Ok, but we were one step closer to being home!  But how were we going to get from Customs at the Executive airport to Bimini Island Air, where we had left our car??  It's not like were at the BIG airport where taxis are everywhere.

"No worries, Mon."  Fortunately, someone was still at the BIA (on Easter Sunday?!?) and she came to get us. 

After an uneventful drive north, we were finally home around 8:00pm. 

All in all, it was a nice trip with numerous opportunities for relaxing and exploring options for a future visit.  And a nice way to celebrate Frank's pre-birthday weekend!