The Hunt Continues....

We are getting dizzy looking at boats!! The more we look the more we find! We have decided to narrow our search to boats only in Maryland and Virgina. There are lots of great boats in Florida but the extra shipping costs can be killer. We are finding lots of great boats in the Maryland area and we don't have to worry about shipping fees! Here is our current top runner. Could this be our new "home"?

It's a 42 ft Whitby Ketch. A good, strong, blue water boat. Made for anything from Chesapeake Bay cruising to trans-Atlantic crossings. Roomy enough for 2 humans, 2 dogs and a few guests!

The Galley (aka, the kitchen)

The companion way (front door), thruway, and navigation station

The head (aka, the bathroom)

Master Cabin

As I am sure you have noticed by now... there doesn't seem to be too much room on a 42 ft sailboat! Its actually about the size of a small to average size apartment....its just longer more than it is wider! There is plenty of headroom for Kevin at 6'1" to stand up throughout which is an important thing as we are looking at boats.

We will obviously be downsizing A LOT!!! Anyone need a new couch? Yes, it will be a spartan lifestyle but we are looking forward to it! Less stuff, less junk....more freedom.....

It's all part of our plan to simplify our life.

Independence Day

As I celebrate another 4th of July away from home, serving my country, it is easy to reflect on how lucky we are in the good ol' US of A. Every time I am away, I am constantly reminded of how lucky I am to have been born in such a great country, full of opportunities. Each new country I visit, I can see why so many people are trying to get in. Here are few pictures I have collected over the years of our great Flag overseas. Some of the pictures are with a US Flag that has been with me everywhere! I hope you enjoy looking at them as much as I enjoyed taking them! Everyone be safe and enjoy the time you have off with family and friends! Wish I was there!! Happy 4th of July!!!

Atop a mountain in Afghanistan

Baghdad International Airport