10 Days To Go

Ten days before we left Lisbon for our first Atlantic crossing were frantic. So much needed doing and there seemed so little time to sort it all out.  By comparison, 10 days before we need to leave the USA, the list is short, the days warm and sunny, and NYYC at Newport is a lovely relaxed place to prepare.  As I sit and type I can see classic schooners and 12 metres sailing past, where else could I do this?!  The suspension bridge arcs across the far side of the bay and the mast and pennant of the NYYC stands proud at the foot of the club dock.

We have settled into a daily routine, of breakfast then schoolwork in the mornings, with the afternoons spent at the club, or going into town shopping.

Sunday on the terrace, E met a couple with a parrot on their shoulder!  Pirates ahoy!

The children have made themselves at home in the club gardens, creating a den in a small thicket which seems to be even more popular than playing binweevils online in the doghouse. E has been working on the boat doing cleaning for me to earn pocket money and M is keen to find a job that he can do to earn money too.

I have a list of small spares items ordered and being brought out by crew.  The new main is on the way and we should get in on Thursday or Friday.  Then we need gas, fuel and food to be ready for the off.  Our first new crew member arrives on Friday night, and we shall meet her in NY, and come back to the boat on Saturday.