Flexibility and adaptability are key ingredients in the recipe for enjoying the cruising lifestyle. We've learned during these past months to keep our plans loose, to live in the moment and to roll with whatever Mother Nature or Poseidon send our way. That's why we're back at the marina tonight after three fabulous days anchored in Gumusluk. With 25-30+ knot winds and a fair amount of rain expected tomorrow and Monday, we've decided to cut our cruising plans short and begin preparing for haul out later this week, perhaps as soon as Wednesday. That's about 6 days earlier than we had intended, but it may give us the opportunity to spend another 1-2 days in Istanbul or possibly extend our stay in France on the way home. Strangely enough, Christine would have preferred to stay out there another few days and I was the one feeling inclined to call it a wrap. An interesting role reversal, to be sure!

And so, the 2012 chapter of our Journey aboard Interlude now comes to an end. I may share some reflections, commentary or other logistical updates over the next week but Interlude be staying put here in Turgutreis until next April. We continue to love Turkey and are hoping to welcome more of our family and friends onboard next year to experience and explore this amazing country with us. Our anticipated Atlantic crossing with Interlude will likely be pushed back to Nov/Dec of 2014 so we can enjoy one more season in the Mediterranean before returning to the U.S.

That's all Folks!