Well, when we originally planned this trip, it seemed that a week would be PLENTY of time to get the boat ready to haul and store for a few months while we go to CA to help mom. Turns out, this was not so.

We had originally hoped to get hauled and have storage with power, so we could run a dehumidifier. However, such a thing was not possible, so instead, we rented a storage unit and spent the last few days packing everything that could get mildew damage (charts, books, clothes, electronics- well really everything!) off the boat and into the storage unit.

Then change the oil, the ATF, fix the bilge pump. Clean and wax the hull. Wash every line. Run all the halyards up the mast with messenger lines to prevent UV damage. Take off all canvas. The list goes on. And on. And on....

It is the 10:00 pm the night before we are being hauled and we are just now doing the last load of laundry. We rented a car and will drive ourselves, Maggie and our sails up to NJ. When washing the sails, we noted several tears and some de-lamination that needs attention from our buddies at Quantum Sails in Bristol.

Well, at least we have been so busy that we haven't had time to be sad that we are leaving our boat for the next few months. It has been a marvelous trip and we hope to get back to it in the fall. Time will tell.

So, here ends the sailing blog for the next little while. To all our cruising buddies, stay safe, enjoy the life and we hope to catch up with you later! And it will be in a much cleaner boat! To our friends from home, See You Soon!

Happy trails.