Homeward Bound

Well… we had a wonderful time. The weather wasn't always the most cooperative, but the idea behind the trip was fulfilled. And that was to go to the Bahamas, sail around, see some new places, meet some new people, and spend time together as a family. Accomplished!

We met some wonderful people that we hope we will continue to keep in touch with and would love to see and visit again. The Bahamas, more specifically the Abacos, were a beautiful place. The people were so friendly and welcoming, the views were astonishing, the architecture unique. We of course enjoyed several meals of conch and lobster (different from the Maine lobster) and grouper whenever we got the chance. We will miss that now that we are headed home.

The time came to leave when we realized we had seen most of the Abacos and time would not allow us to go further into the Bahamas. Once the idea of home was mentioned, we all jumped on the bandwagon and began to look for a window to cross the Atlantic. Our window came with a beautiful week of mild winds, clear skies, and warm temperatures. We jumped on it with the knowledge that if we waited we could be there another month easily. Crossing the line between the Bahama bank and the Atlantic ocean, almost brought a tear to my eye. I had such a wonderful time the Bahamas and enjoyed it so much, I almost didn't want to leave. Our crossing went very well. It was so smooth, the winds so light, and the waves so flat, we flew across. We came into Cape Canaveral Inlet this morning. We are now anchored in Titusville, with hopes of moving up the coast a little for a week or so to hang out. We're ready for home, but not sure we want to head back to the cold just yet. So home for now is Florida. :)

Living on the boat has just been a completely life changing experience. We have gotten used to a much more complex system of going to the bathroom, very limited shower ability, small kitchen space and a not so hot burner for cooking, a very tiny fridge, small personal space, and pretty much living outdoors 100% of the time. We joke that going home will be a luxury and realize that now we will be way more appreciative of endless water, good tasting water, hot showers, flushing toilets, laundry abilities, a huge fridge, and Mom's favorite… the AGA. J The boat has provided us an opportunity also to regroup as a family. After losing Emily, things went a little haywire… with work, with school, and in our personal lives. This trip has allowed us to think about things, not think at all, and to spend time together that we may not get in the future. I believe it's been the healthiest and best thing for us… not to mention, we've had a blast! It's sad to see the trip come to an end, but there are exciting prospects for the future. Mom and Dad will be going back to work and I'll be headed off to a new school.

This will not be the last trip for the crew of Thaleïa. :) Thank you everyone for all your love and support and friendship!

Good weather and Happy sailing!