I sit here quietly on the boat, just the humming of the heater and (thankfully) the stillness of the water surrounds me. The last month has passed quickly, as we acclimated to the our new home and new lifestyle. It was a huge relief to be finished with the house and to focus fully on our "new" life. It was a beautiful way to transition as we were here for 2 weeks on the boat and then took a week vacation to Mexico. It was wonderful to get the tedious task of organizing done and then to take a much needed break. We were able to reconnect with each other as a family, take a deep breath and rejuvenate our souls as our skin soaked in the warm sun. We were able to return refreshed and inspired to keep on task and head south asap!! The winter storms keep rearing their ugly head and have made us long desperately for spring to return. After a few days of storms one right after another, I finally broke down and took some Gravol. Luckily it relieved the nausea and I was able to get a good night sleep and start fresh the next day. The 'calm after the storm' is always such a welcomed one
I had a bottle of champagne in the fridge, and wanted to celebrate......I know I should wait until G is home to celebrate with me, but after finishing cleaning up and the baby is quietly sleeping I wanted to relax and take a moment to reflect. So I guess you've figured by now, I decided to drink now and ask for forgiveness later!
I just feel so grateful, for so many reasons.... to start with I can't tell you how much I love the boyish grin on Gordon's face before he goes to sleep at night. He is so happy down here, so completely at peace. It makes all the tough days so worth it. He told me the most romantic thing the other night as we curled up in our little bunks and reached across to hold each others hand...." I want to grow old with you in small spaces. " It is so hard to put words to the way I felt after hearing that. I love that there is a beautifully intricate dance that must occur daily for us to live together here. A true sense of teamwork, an unspoken knowing of each others moods and needs. The importance of working through problems together , as there is no room for hidden agendas or unspoken feelings.
Logan has adapted seamlessly, he is enjoying the boat and it has also proved to be a great time to implement some much needed changes in his routine. We've started a new napping schedule and also started weaning him (partially) from the "All-Can-Eat Breastraunt". He is growing so fast, it's hard to believe he is no longer my "baby". He brings such absolute joy to my life and I am so grateful that I am able to stay home with him and enjoy every minute of his being. It is so pure and full of love, it is such a gift to be able to look at life through his eyes. He's talking more and more everyday. Continues to be sweet, silly and oh so loving. He loves giving his kitty "teats" and have caught him doing the 'one for you, one for me' bit. We bought Malloreigh a kitty bed the other day (in hopes to contain her copious amounts of fur) and he quietly goes up to the poor sleeping kitty, yells "GO" and pulls the bed out from under her and proceeds to curl up into a ball and try and fit himself into the bed. Usually this is after I have finally gotten him dressed for the day and we are just about to leave.....now COVERED in cat hair!!
I have to admit living in such a small space is a bit trying with a cat, the hair just seems endless! My once adventurous cat now refuses to go outside unless I physically put her out there and close the door. Then restless and rambuncous, she rustles around all night long. I've started putting her on the same program as Logan, she has mandatory outdoor time. It is in hopes that she will appreciate her time indoors and either play quietly or sleep. Unfortunately she's not as easy to train as Logan is!
Overall, I feel bit surprised actually that things have gone as smoothly as they have. There have been some really trying days (believe me!!) but it definitely seems doable. We're definitely getting into a groove down here and figuring out a system. I have to admit I am a bit of a princess and do have a microwave and a crockpot as well. I figure, we're not going off shore yet, so I might as well live it up while I can!! There are just some things in life that make living with a toddler SO much easier! I'll have to go through my own weaning process when the time comes... but in the meantime I'm going to live high on the hog!
Congrats on your first month out~
ReplyDeleteBefore you know it , it will be a year!
We live on our boat with 3 children for almost 2 years now! It will be fun to watch your adventures! I blog here http://sailing5.xanga.com/
Hi Lara, we met on the dock last friday. We're really enjoying your blog, you guys are exactly where we want to be next year! Nice work! We'd love to take you up on your offer of a visit/playdate after Easter so e-mail me if you'd still like to - jhillerby@yahoo.com - Looking forward to seeing you again,
ReplyDeleteJames, Satsuki, Melody and Simon
Just got a chance to read this but I've been thinking about you all and your transition to living aboard. Glad to hear it's going well!
ReplyDeleteJust read this and think you guys are so brave for deciding to live aboard. What an adjustment it is eh! So jealous of your microwave!
ReplyDeleteYes having a cat onboard has it's challenges, especially the hair. Our cat decided she didn't like being on board and started peeing on things, which is something I hope you don't have to deal with in the midst of your other laundry. Hope you guys are doing well.
" I want to grow old with you in small spaces."... how sweet!
ReplyDeleteWhen are you coming down to Victoria? We miss you!
Charlie + Sarah