The take off date seems so close and so far at the same time. I think I may be over researching everything I need or want to know. I bookmark too many pages and I am trying so very hard to keep it organized.

I find myself reading, eating and sleeping boats, sailing or cruising. All of it is fascinating to me. I have caught myself staying up late into the night looking at maps, marina directory's and reading about provisioning, homeschooling, medical emergencies and anything else I can get my tired eyes on. So many times I have bookmarked something in an effort to come back to it later and learn more. Too bad my brain is like a sieve as most of what goes in drains out until I am able to put said information to practical use.

We winterized Esc Pod last weekend. We filled her tanks with the bright pink antifreeze that is somehow safe for the environment. We took down the bimini and dodger. DH tucked away whatever lines, fishing poles and other equipment that should not be out in freezing rain and snow. I packed up anything with liquid in it that could freeze. I loaded up all the cushions in the salon with the hopes that I will find to time to recover them over the winter. I swept and washed the floors. I dusted and wiped everything with vinegar to try to win the ageless war on mildew. I took many pictures and took some measurements for projects I have brewing from all the time I have spent on Pinterest. It is amazing to me that this routine every winter brings a hovering depressed funk. It is akin to sending a loved one off on a long trip. You know you will see them again soon. However it still makes your heart ache as you part ways. As I lug the last bit of equipment out of the cabin I whisper to her that I will miss her and we will be back soon. As we drive away with the truck loaded with boat stuff I look back and see my Essie snug in her slip. She is just a shell now, a skeleton that once and will again hold much joy, adventure, blood, sweat, tears, pride and freedom in a few long cold months.