The King is Here

Yes, the King of the Netherlands and his family has been here this past week.

There seemed to be quite a bit of excitement and preparation for the family. A stage in Otrobanda for the festivities was set up with all the dignitaries’ places reserved for the viewing. Jay and I decided not to get in the midst of the huge crowds that evening.

We find it very interesting to know a little about the government of each country we visit. The king of the Netherlands has very little power. The prime minister and the other ministers are responsible for the day to day affairs. Side bar – Isn’t it interesting other countries call the heads of governmental departments “ministers of…” The US calls them,”secretary of….”

The King’s duties are weekly meetings with his parliament as well as signing and ratifying royal decrees. Mostly his duties are ceremonial such as meeting and greeting other heads of state, and making state visits. His personal salary is 1 million per year, and an additional 5 million for travel expenses and staff. Hmmm……moving on for a bit…

Our dear friend Lisette met with the King. He actually tried to fit a lionfish spearing dive in with her, but the part of their government equal to our Secret Service decided it couldn’t happen this time.

Lisette has a children’s book written about her and lionfish. It is helping the next generation learn how to take care of our reef system. Such a cute book with wonderful drawings. Spoiler alert…James, we have another book for your aunties to read to you when we get back.

In the meantime here’s what’s going on with the commoners. There’s a beautiful full moon this week.

I lost my drivers license. The good news – I am logging many miles walking. I have walked my path so many times without a trace of it. So if any divers find it in the middle of the ocean, please just cut it up, I have already ordered a replacement. Jay twisted/sprained his ankle as well as a lionfish spine in the knee. A bad week for Jay’s left leg. However with heat on the knee for a few hours, and ice on the ankle for a couple days, our mighty hunter is back in the water bringing dinner home.

I still carry the dive bouy to let boats know we are in the waters. Here are a few pictures from my snorkeling time. I have some great video but I can’t seem to get it to download. Technologically challenged this week. (Really most of the time.)😁

The Jewel Damsel have become my favorite fish as a snorkeler. My sweet little juvenile spotted drum, which are my most favorite, stay deeper for only divers to enjoy. So I had to choose a new favorite.

“There are no snakes in the Caribbean waters!!!”, According to the woman at the Dive Store. This is not a snake. It is called a snake eel. Very fun to watch as they scavenge in the sand.

However, that is a scorpion! I don’t know where we picked him up at. He was in my blue snorkeling vest as I almost put it on with him attached!!! Thank the good Lord I saw his tail flipped up when I was about to put an arm into the vest.

Jay found an island dog that needed some petting. We decided if we can ever decide on what type of dog to get, we’ll name it “Island Dog”. No worries Bill and Pat, we can’t agree on one type of dog.

While sitting with some of the research students at Carmabi, we were watching the chickens with their chicks. This particular chick could not get close enough to her mama. Finally the patient mama sat down to let the baby jumped on her back. All was right with the world.

Isn’t that just like us – sometimes we need to jump on the back of another in our trials or just need a little rest. We need that time of comfort and help. I know how blessed Jay and I are to have each of you. We also have a King that has our back always. He loves us more than one could ever know. “He is everywhere and not in only one place. No one can hide where He cannot see them.” In fact I read yesterday, “Those who draw near to God through him, He lives to make intercession for us.” Sometimes we don’t know what to ask for or how to get out of a situation, but we have a King that we can go to for help. He doesn’t need the Secret Service or FBI to tell him if it is okay. He doesn’t require us to pay taxes. He is higher than any head of state in any country. Do you know this King? I hope so. If you don’t and would like to, let Jay or me know and we would love to introduce you to the King of kings.

Bendishon (Blessings), Jay and Kelly