Fake It
31 July 2013 | Day 17 Hawai'i to Victoria
Susan
We have two days to go and it's starting to sink in that our incredible journey will soon be over. This really was quite an amazing adventure starting with five and a half years of hard work. Once completed we would set sail having only had Hobie Cat and the odd sailing charter for sailing experience. There were many people who were willing to offer their negative opinions which always amazed me as they didn't even know us, nor did we ask for their opinions. To the guy in the boat yard who said, "That boat will never see the water!" and the HMCS Oriole Captain who said we should never set sail offshore, Doug says, "You can kiss my salty ass!" What I will remember the most in the lead up to departure was all my fellow Coasties who assured me we would be fine. As Koop said to me, "Sue, you're good. Just go!" There wasn't one CCG person who didn't think we could do it (at least they didn't tell me). We were so thankful for all the words of encouragement and prayers that were sent our way - we really can't thank you enough. Especially our weatherman John, who provided plenty of support combined with his own personality which was always well received! We've learnt so much, about ourselves, our children, other cultures - it really never was about the sailing. If you were to ask us if we knew how to sail, we'd still tell you we don't. We just fake it real good.
Of the five of us onboard, I am the only one that doesn't want to go back yet. I love being at sea and the time I have spent with my family is absolutely priceless. It's hard to believe how much the kids have changed right before my eyes. I love being around them - they really are great kids that make me smile every day. Rich and Colleen in Hawaii were so surprised that in 15 months, Doug and I never had a fight. It's all about teamwork - I could never exist without him.
We have so enjoyed everyone we met on this trip, from Cruisers to Locals to Krazy Kiwis. We made friendships that I know will stand the test of time. These Cruisers are such interesting people and there is an instant bonding even though they may be wealthy or living on a shoestring. The islands introduced us to cultures comprising of the most warm and friendly people. Even though we always tried to leave the islands better than we arrived, giving what we could offer, we always ended up leaving the richer for it. There are so many things we are thankful for, I'm so glad we didn't let other peoples' fears prevent us from fulfilling our dream.
ETA Victoria waterfront Friday pm