After 12 years of dreaming about this, and 3 months of intense preparations, we think we are ready. Am I excited? Yes. Am I afraid? Yes. My sister, Lisa, gave me a bracelet engraved “Be brave” for my birthday this year. It is for ovarian cancer, but I think it is meant for any one of us, whenever we do anything that is scary, big or small. If you aren’t afraid when you do something, you aren’t being brave. Each of us reaches deep inside for courage every single day; it just isn’t always visible to others. So, thank you to everyone I know who helps me find my courage. Especially my dear husband, Al.
Al had lots of projects over the past few weeks. Dinghy maintenance, head repairs (for those of you are non-nautical, that means the toilet), cleaning the enclosure’s “glass.”
There were also some larger projects, such as installing a new forward hatch and adding the name and homeport to the transom.
~ A nice new forward hatch!
You may be wondering what I do, other than take photos. I am not nearly as talented as Al when it comes to maintaining a sailboat, but I can plan, organize, and gather (otherwise known as shop.) The behind the scenes person. I also make sure the Captain is well-fed and happy. Every once in awhile, I use the tools, too.
Organizing, moving, and stowing supplies and provisions aboard has been quite an experience. Where will it all go? Will it all fit? And do we really need it all?? Al reminded 3 times each day that there are grocery stores up and down the east coast.
After stowing everything all away, I quickly discovered the real problem. It is not finding places for everything, it is REMEMBERING where you put it all!!!! So we now have lists and diagrams.
We were both surprised to find that everything we have carried onboard has a home. For us, Kindred Spirit is our new home. I have listened to Philip Philips’ song “Home” quite often, as we make this boat our home for the next 8-9 months.
Hold on, to me as we go
As we roll down this unfamiliar road
And although this wave is stringing us along
Just know you’re not alone
Cause I’m gonna make this place your home
We are ready. Next post will hopefully be about the adventure!!
Jim & Marge
We are so excited for you too. What an Adventure!!!
You have done such a great job of explaining everything.
It sets the stage for all of us to follow and enjoy.
Will look forward to your updates.
Miss you and wish you a “safe and happy sail.”
Amanda
So excited for you!!! I remember well the days of packing and organizing everything in our new, much, much smaller mobile home. I think starting with a good organizational system in the beginning makes things so much easier in the long run. I am very excited to follow along with your travels, and can’t wait to see and read all about the adventures you have. Safe travels!
Linda
Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts as you prepare to hit the seas. Jack & I are so excited for the two of you! And while I always enjoy reading your blog, I especially appreciated what you wrote today about bravery. Not to venture beyond our comfort zones is to deprive ourselves of life’s richest experiences. I expect that you & Al will return from this trip touched and transformed in ways you never anticipated. Your adventure will be our vicarious pleasure as we read your blog, keep in touch electronically, and remember you in our prayers. Bon voyage!!!