CURRENT LOCATION: Anchored in Ensenada Honda, near town on Culebra
18 18.301' N, 065 18.007' W
It was a nice 5-day vacation from boat life. It constituted the longest continuous hiatus I have had from living on the boat since we moved aboard over 18 months ago. (Note: Sheryl had a slightly longer break during our week-long housesitting gig back in August. On that occasion, my land-based sojourn was interrupted by a night aboard where I rode out Invest 92 - {
Click here to review the blog from that night}.
In addition to the creature comforts afforded by virtually unlimited power and water, we truly enjoyed the company of the dogs. Walks on the beach quickly became a daily excursion. And, whether playing on the beach or simply having a dog next to you on the couch to pet, it added a dimension to our life which is currently lacking. Both Sheryl and I agree, however, that a boat is no place to have a dog. In my humble opinion, a dog needs unlimited access to a big yard where they can get lots of exercise. So, our return to pet ownership will have to wait until we can approximate more ideal conditions for such a companion. Until then, we are grateful to have had the opportunity to get a little K-9 time from our friends...
Back aboard
Prudence, life is back to normal. Boats continue to come and go from the harbor, as we count about 6 weeks until we will be free to sail onward to new anchorages in new countries. The 2008-2009 sailing season is definitely upon us. I have been following (online) the progress of the cruising sailboats involved in this year's
Caribbean 1500. These folks departed the Norfolk, VA area on November 7th and will arrive shortly in the British Virgin Islands. They are taking the offshore route, which is much quicker than our trek along the 'Thorny Path'.
New boats in the harbor, the 1500, and my regular checks of numerous blogs posted by people on the ICW headed to points further south, stirs the excitement of engaging in active cruising once again. Soon we will be stowing final provisions, scouting the forecasts for a weather window, and building up the courage to say goodbye to Culebra. Stay tuned for all the action.