The Signing Tree

June 4th 2025

The first hint of dawn awakened the crew of the Chasing Destiny. The gentle lapping of waves against Double Breasted Cay had been their lullaby, and now, the promise of a new adventure was their alarm clock. Coffee brewed, strong and dark, filling the galley with a comforting aroma, while Greg checked the charts for the journey to Allan-Pensacola Cay (APC).

The anchor was up before the sun had fully cleared the horizon, and the Chasing Destiny turned her bow southeast. The journey was smooth; occasionally, she would pound through a few rogue waves, ensuring the crew was awake. The sails caught the gentle breeze, pushing them towards their destination. By late afternoon, the distinctive silhouette of Allan-Pensacola Cay emerged from the shimmering ocean.

After dropping anchor in the warm, blue waters of APC, the real fun began. The crew piled into the dinghy, a sturdy little vessel that was about to get a taste of the Atlantic. They aimed for the infamous Signing Tree, rumored to be on the island’s wild, eastern shore. As they rounded the tip of the island, the gentle swells of the anchorage gave way to the exhilarating, choppier waters of the open Atlantic. The dinghy bounced and surged, spray misting their faces as they navigated the waves. Each rise and fall was met with hoots of delight and the occasional surprised yelp.

Finally, with a well-timed surge, the dinghy nudged onto a small patch of sand. The crew spotted the Signing Tree, a twisted, ancient tree standing proudly against the many storms it had faced. Its trunk was wrapped in offerings, decorated with countless plaques and carvings left by passing sailors.

With a sense of pride, they produced their own offering: a smooth piece of wood, carefully inscribed with “CHASING DESTINY” and signed by each crew member. They found a small space and secured it safely to the tree. It was a testament to their journey, a small piece of their adventure left behind for future voyagers to discover.

As they admired their handiwork, a mischievous grin spread across Katniss’s face. With a quick glance to make sure no one was looking too closely, she stealthily deposited her own unique contribution: a couple of fresh, unmistakable Katniss “deposits” right next to the tree. A true mark of Katniss.