The addition of a non-essential

That never happens. You NEVER bring stuff onto the boat that you don't really need, right? But what if it's sentimental? What to keep and what to get rid of is a big struggle for any family, but it can be gut-wrenching when downsizing this drastically. I have hauled this chunk of wood around since early 2004. It's not a remarkable chunk of wood, and it wasn't even a part of holiday memories. But, it was hers. I moved it and I stored it. And now that I've taken a paddle bit to the underside of it so that it can fit over the pot holders on the stove, it is part of our home and my memories of her are reinvigorated. Welcome aboard, Virginia Rose.

This was my grandmother's cutting board. I love it, and I love the extra prep area!

On the Rhode again!

It's sort of a family tradition. When we all hop in the car to head somewhere, someone calls out, "on the road again!" This weekend we are enjoying the other "road," the Rhode River in Maryland. During our last time living in the area the Rhode was a favorite destination--good holding for the anchor, little road noise (though sometimes in the arrival path for BWI!), abundant wildlife, and a quick jaunt from our home marina--so it was a no-brainer as we headed out for our first over-nighter since returning. We anchored before sunset, had a great family meal on deck, watched the moon rise...it was perfect. I am at peace here this morning, anticipating a very lazy return trip in light air. But my mind is also on my friends in FL and fellow boaters across the Caribbean in the wake of Irma.

Progress!

We have been back abooard for six days now. Six glorious days! It is admittedly a challenge to get the boat put back together while working full time and 2-3 hours of commuting daily, but we are making it work! The remnants of hurricane Harvey will slow us down a bit this weekend, but i have high hopes of a little underway time!