Winter Prep

Hard to believe it is 2024, we can finally stop adding the year when talking about our departure month.

While Emilie B is on the hard, David is working hard on the electrical system, getting everything mocked up at home to simplify the installation on the boat. Maybe he'll post about all the work he has done to satisfy my request to be able to use an appliance (microwave, hair dryer, instapot, etc) while we are at anchor without turning on the generator. He has upgraded Emilie B from 2003 technology to state of the art. The new helm station reminds me of the Bonanza and reflects David's great skills. I can't imagine taking on all this work if we had to hire and pay others. David is also making sure all the mechanical systems are in top condition, with the engine and tank compartments looking like new.

Meanwhile, I have been working through the lists of what we needed/wanted to live aboard comfortably for a year. New bedding to be custom fitted to the mattress, new appliances like an icemaker and toaster oven. We used Christmas as a good time to purchase eBikes for exploring on shore and to help with grocery shopping and laundry. We are both excited about having them for this adventure and for when we get back home.

My other task has been to figure out how to stay in touch with family and friends - which will be through this blog. I don't know if this will be the long-term solution, but it is a start. I'm not someone who keeps a journal, so sitting down to write on a regular basis will be new for me so I'm not sure how often I will post or even what our internet access will be in some areas. While we have enjoyed following many vloggers doing the loop on YouTube, that is not something we'll be doing, so no YouTube channel for the Emilie B.