BRAD: We're off- again! We decided last week with the looming hurricane to head back up to Annapolis rather than seeking refuge more locally (which would have put us closer to some nasty weather). This ended up being the right call and we had a really great week there. A highlight was our day trip to Washington, DC where we all enjoyed the American History Museum. We gave a knowing nod to some fellow homeschoolers there! As well, after several projects and heavy weather prep refits (made easier by familiar surrounds, access to a car etc.), we now consider our first week the "shakedown" for our year ahead. Great to see family friends again after so long at sea!
Good news: the low-profile anchor light (on top of the mast) that we found so hard to see last week is now a foot higher and (as we just noticed motoring back to Baila) much more visible. I was able to mount it to a sturdy extension tube raising it up for better visibility. Lynn enjoyed the chance to learn from my dad how to spot me as I climbed the mast and secured in at the top. The most challenging part for her was how to lower me back down; she did great and I had a nice smooth 55 foot descent. She missed her chance to torture me. Anna and Izzy both jumped at the opportunity to ride up (a portion) of the mast (see pics below)! I enjoyed rocking them while they were up there; Lynn who was down below at the time didn't enjoy that as much.
After leaving Annapolis this morning (yes, again), we're out on the Bay headed south once more. It feels really good after a challenging week with regard to Mother Nature, homeschooling challenges, and morale! Though we're behind our initial schedule we'll take our time in the southern Chesapeake and take the chance to visit Williamsburg, VA and other historic sites.
Regarding school stuff: rough start! We've been so preoccupied with weather and plans that it's been really tough developing any semblance of routine. However, it finally seems to be clicking (slowly). We've integrated some Calvert School courses so hopefully there will be a bit more structure. Our lunch conversation with the girls today involved wind vectors and true versus apparent wind- so hopefully we're sneaking in some learning!
Here are Anna and Izzy:
ANNA: We have finally gotten into a routine after two weeks: Every morning we start school at nine-ish. We have all been very thankful for the Calvert School Courses, because now school is a little less painful. At twelve-ish we break for lunch and usually call it a day. We are then free to do whatever crazy things we can think of, such as walking two miles to the grocery, finding playgrounds and backflipping off the swing set, climbing the mast, and checking to see if the water is getting any lighter on a scale from Chesapeake (brown-blue) to Bahamian (light blue)! I miss you all and can't wait to get back to hanging out with my friends and constant wifi, but I think i'm going to enjoy my time of no homework and constant family time for now.
IZZY:We have finally left (I hope)! So far things have been rough because it's been stressful with the weather, but I think that once we're really gone all the stress will vanish! We have done some really cool stuff like scavenger hunts, climbing the mast, meeting other people who have done this for many years, and seeing my Nanny and Poppy one more time. Somethings that I miss about Swarthmore are seeing my friends at school, my house, my stuff, all of my friends, sleepovers, playdates, the pool (even though that's closed now), and everyone in Swarthmore!!! I was really sad to leave Swarthmore but I'm really happy to be having this once in a lifetime adventure! I cant wait to get to the Bahamas and see all the amazing fish and crystal clear water! I miss you all and think of you guys constantly!
:) bye!! :) :)
 |
| Anna |
 |
| Izzy |
 |
| Avery tonight with her first boat friend this trip |
No comments:
Post a Comment