They say, “It takes a village.”

As parents we’ve heard “it takes a village” to raise children. Well, I think that phrase applies to more that just raising little ones—we all can benefit from the help and expertise of our tribe to handle the challenges life throws at us. And as we are a Navy family, I think of this awesome collective as our “fleet,” a fleet that makes this life we have chosen not only doable, but enriches the experience.

We’ve spent the last month in our old home area of Herring Bay and during that time got a great deal of support from the fleet! (I’ll use first initials so you know who you are without making you public, even though we know you aren’t seeking any praise!)  Our old dock and marina mates made sure we stayed safely social (M&K, J&J, the other M&K, D&K, M, J, D&G, J...lots of J’s and M’s!), we were offered loan of critical tools (J&J), and everyone just genuinely asked if anyone in the family needed anything. Our kids were welcomed into their old second home (M&W) so they didn’t have to endure weeks of hot boat work and our whole family was given a room in a friend’s home (B) to stay in while the boat was on the hard—two things that made this whole month totally enjoyable despite the hard work. And so many mail deliveries (M, B)!!!

For our part, we gave back where and how we could, sharing muscle, meals, conversation, and parts. Our fleet, our tribe, our village...it’s all about just doing what’s right and being kind to each other. It’s what I want my children to see and learn from—our Herring Bay fleet consistently delivers!

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you.

🙏🏻❤️