Cousins

On the 20^th March our dear cousin Lisa Nicholson said goodbye to life in this earthly realm and, as her daughter Nancy said, she “passed into the light”. We have been fortunate to have spent so much time with Lisa over the years. The picture of her waving goodbye as we sailed out of Nelson’s Dockyard the January before last is indelibly printed on our minds. Though Lisa, Grand Dame of Antiguan yachting, was as close as it gets to Antiguan royalty, she was a radically down to earth, grassroots, and profoundly thoughtful lady. She sang in her church choir. She lived in a glorious “shabby chic” house atop a hill at Pigeon Point, overlooking iconic Falmouth Harbor, where extravagant yachts regularly sail past. She was an engaged and valued member of the local Antiguan community. Lisa embodied the dazzling and the ordinary with an elegant charm that beguiled all those who shared a moment with her. She lived her 88 years with sincerity, intelligence, and a deep sense of continuous learning. She profoundly touched the hearts of all in her milieu. Hers was a life well lived. She leaves a legacy of three beautiful daughters who continue her philosophy of life learning and daily joy. We are privileged to call them all cousins. 

As we sailed to Antigua, on Sunday 2^nd April, having attended early morning mass and the Palm Sunday procession in Deshaies, Guadalupe, Lisa was on our minds. Nancy, Lisa’s daughter, and her main care giver for the past few years, was on the dock to welcome us. Nancy’s gorgeous silhouette, with her long flowing auburn hair, strong Nicholson face, and warm embracing smile, was the perfect “home coming” and circumnavigation culmination. A happy hello and a huge hug brought tears of joy to our sea and sun worn eyes. Greeting Nancy again, after a year and a half, brought meaning and poignancy to our accomplishment. We did it, we have arrived!