Island Boy

A few years ago, my stepmom, Carrie, told me that the Kenny Chesney song “Island Boy” reminded her of my dad.  I didn’t see the connection, although I could understand why she would want that to be the case.  The song is about a guy who leaves it all behind to hang out in the Caribbean islands, enjoy life and relax. 

Ha!  My dad?!?  Mr. Uptight?  The guy who was "this close" to driving over the planter in a McDonald’s drive through because it was taking too long to get his food?  The guy who has been known (more than a few times) to leave his groceries behind before buying them because there were too many people waiting in line at the check stands?  The guy who watches FOX News whenever he’s not at work or listening to Hugh Hewitt on satellite radio?  The guy who likes to worry about things before they even happen, just in case?  That guy who would give my sister and I four minutes to find something in a department store or else we'd go home empty handed?  I couldn't see that guy as an island boy.  

I’m not sure that guy knows how to relax. 

But that’s all changed now.  Because my dad is four months into a year long trip around The Great Loop, along with his beautiful wife, in their boat.  He doesn’t get satellite TV, he skim reads the few emails that get to him about work, he only calls into the office once every few weeks, and he steers clear of shopping malls and drive through lines.   Now, his “troubles” are mapping routes in the river systems, anticipating less than stellar weather, getting a slip in the next marina, finding local stores to buy vodka and fresh bread, and knowing what strangers to invite aboard for cocktail hour. 

 This guy, he knows how to relax. 

He is calm.  He is social.  He is happy.  He’s her island boy. 

Island Boy

He left Maine cause he needed a change,

He was desperate to rearrange

priorities, and he thought the sea,

would be the best place to be.

So he saved his money, sold his car,

and with his eyes set on a southern star -

he got the courage to follow his heart.

Set out for a brand new start.

He’s an island boy, now he’s an island boy,

living his life where stress is the enemy.

Now he’s an island boy, a stone’s throw from St. Croix.

He’s finally found his piece of serenity.

You know the love of his life has always been Emily.

And she loves the man she sees,

In her island boy.  Now he’s an island boy.

Living his life where stress is the enemy.

Now he’s an island boy, a stone’s throw from St. Croix.

He’s finally found his piece of serenity.

Island Boy.