Everywhere we look, we can see that Christmas is approaching. Carols sing out in the stores, while the Santas outside ring their bells to encourage charitable donations. Boats nearby have lights strung the full length of their rigging. Red bows and pine wreaths gaily adorn bulkheads and hulls. There is no sound of prancing or pawing reindeer hooves on the roof, but the miniature shrimp beneath the hull snap and crackle to fill the void.

Aboard Windswept IV, the work is still progressing. But soon, we too will string lights in the cockpit, hang our stockings around the mast and decorate our Christmas tree. Yes, we do have a tree. It is only just over a foot high, and has fiber-optic lights on the tips of the branches. I kept the tiniest of the decorations that once hung on the tree at home and have found other small ones here and there.

Christmas aboard is not much different than Christmas ashore. Just smaller, due to the lack of space. The Christmas letter is written and the cards addressed and sent. The presents have been ordered and sent. No turkey as yet, but it will likely be a turkey breast, sized for two. With some leftovers for sandwiches the next day. Mmm.

Probably we will join friends for some part of the celebration. Share a glass or two and eat too much. Maybe still in the US or perhaps someplace in the islands. Either place, there will be palm trees and white sand beaches. Not a snow flake in sight.

Currently, we are still in Ft Pierce at the marina. The rig and bow stem could be in place as early as next weekend. So, things are looking up here. We will finish stocking the boat with food supplies and the winter’s requirements of beer and pop. Then just need to wait for good weather to cross to the islands. Or at least, better weather than last year!

We wish everyone all the best for Christmas and wonderful things for the year to come. Imagine that – 2001!

Hugs to all, Heather & Murray

Heather & Murray Rand
aboard Windswept IV