Happy 50th Birthday!!

Today is Erwin's 50th birthday! Since his birthday falls on a Monday this year, we figured that yesterday (Sunday) would be a better day to celebrate the big event! The party was held on the beach at Sorobon and Erwin had a wonderful day surrounded by good friends and family, great scenery and plenty of delicious food. A big thanks to Jason, Marlene and her Mom and Dad who were a huge help in putting the party together and thanks to everyone who brought food and showed up to celebrate! It was a perfect day for Erwin!

I made a quick collage with some photos from yesterday. Click on photo for larger view.
Happy 50th Birthday to my wonderful husband, Erwin!! He has had the roughest year of his life but still has a smile for everyone! I love him so much!

Children of the Wind

Here are some links to the documentary, Children of the Wind, that I mentioned in the post on January 16th...
http://www.childrenofthewindmovie.com/themovie.htm
http://www.youtube.com/watch?gl=US&v=-CDgYcd4bZ8

Saturday Swim

On Saturday, Erwin and I had a very nice swim with Linda. Molly and Jason joined us, too! Erwin even got to see a Frogfish while he was snorkeling! He was a happy camper :-). Click on photo for larger view.

A New Year Begins

First the good news...Erwin's friend Stewart is back on the island. He picks up Erwin every morning and takes him along on his dive excursions. Erwin really enjoys this. Erwin was also interviewed for a documentary on the history of windsurfing in Bonaire and participated in a rally " Boneiru Activo" which promotes participation in sports and fitness activities. The attached photo is from the Boneiru Activo ceremony at the sports stadium. This photo was on the front page of the Extra newspaper. Erwin is on the far right with the other representatives of the windsurfing contingent. Photo courtesy of Ibi Piar..
Now the bad news...Erwin's younger sister (49) suffered a massive stroke on January 7th. She is currently in the hospital in Curacao but will probably be sent back to Bonaire next week. From all accounts she is not doing very well. More on this later.

Happy Holidays!

As we approach the end of the year, I would like to take this opportunity to once again thank everyone who has given us such tremendous support and encouragement throughout this trying year. We couldn't have made it through without all your help, contributions and prayers. We still have a long way to go with Erwin's recovery, so please keep us in your thoughts during the coming year.

Wishing you all a joyous holiday season and may your star shine brightly in the New Year!

Much Love,
Ellen & Erwin

New Plans

Had a great visit with Erwin's rehabilitation doctor last week. We made plans to go to Curacao for a few days sometime early next year to do an extensive evaluation of Erwin's current situation and see where he needs the most help in his rehabilitation therapy. The rescheduled visit with his neurologist is next week.

On the home front, we are being plagued by repeated thefts and an attempted break in. This sucks!!

Cruisin'

We got Erwin out in the boat last weekend. He had a good time cruising along the coastline. As we arrived back to shore, we were treated to a green flash. The perfect evening ended with dinner from Bobbejans. :-)