Hey everyone, it’s been a while since I’ve caught you up on our adventures.

So, guess what? I finally retired in July 2023! Between my last update and now, it’s been non-stop hustle—both at work and on the boat.

While I was stuck in front of my computer in the salon, Doug was busy putting our new Sailrite sewing machine to good use. He whipped up a complete enclosure for the cockpit and got it all set up. We used NoSeeUm bug screen for the panels with screens to keep those pesky bugs out. Instead of splurging on Strata Glass, which is super pricey, we opted for clear vinyl from Marine Vinyl Fabric, and we’ve been thrilled with the results. This was our first major sewing project, and while there are a few things we’d tweak, it’s been a total game-changer for us. We also gave the countertops in the galley a makeover with some epoxy and swapped out the old small double sink for a single basin workstation sink.

We pulled LeaLou out of the water in Georgia and left her on the hard while we headed home to Nevada to spend time with family. We spent the entire month of July there and then jetted off to Europe.

Our first stop was a full month in France, mostly in Bayeux near the Normandy beaches. Our boys and their partners joined us for part of the trip, and together, we toured all the beaches, which was incredibly moving. We visited several cemeteries, including the American cemetery overlooking Omaha Beach. We timed our visit, so we were there when Retreat was played, and the American flag was lowered. The four of us, Doug, me, and both our boys served, so when Retreat was played, we snapped to attention and paid our respects. It was a really emotional experience for all of us, and I must admit, I got a little teary-eyed.

After France, Doug and I paid a visit to our friend Allison in Cyprus. She lives in Northern Cyprus, so just getting there was an adventure in itself. We had to fly into southern Cyprus, which is controlled by Greece and the EU. You can’t fly into Northern Cyprus unless you’re coming from Turkey. Allison sent a driver for us, and he helped us navigate through the checkpoints. Cyprus was absolutely amazing, and Allison’s house and pool were definite highlights of our trip.

Allison also took us to Turkey, which wasn’t originally on our itinerary. We spent several days in Istanbul, and what a bustling, vibrant city it is! Despite the hustle and bustle, it felt very safe, and we got to see some incredible sights, including the Blue Mosque and several other mosques and museums. We also went on two short cruises on the Bosporus Strait—one during the day and one for dinner. It was such a treat to be out on the water and see both the European and Asian continents lined with beautiful waterfront houses, mosques, and historic landmarks.

Next, we flew to Cappadocia in central Turkey, and wow, what an incredible place! Cappadocia is known for its unique landscape of volcanic rock formations and underground cities. We stayed at the Kelebek Hotel, which was absolutely gorgeous, and the staff were incredibly friendly. One funny thing: they didn’t know what a rum and coke was, so I had to order rum and a Coke separately with slices of lime and make my own.

We had a blast exploring the area, from the Kaymakli Underground City to the Ilhara Valley and Selime Monastery. We even took a private tour that included a visit to the Pigeon Valley Vista Point, where there was an amazing jewelry store—I may have splurged a bit! We’re already dreaming of going back to Turkey. It would be so cool to sail there; they have some really beautiful marinas.

After Turkey and Cyprus, we spent a month in Crete. We stayed in the most incredible Airbnb right on the water. We spent most of our time lounging on the beaches, working on our all over tans (if you know what I mean, LOL). We also hiked the Samaria Gorge, which is the longest gorge in Europe—it took us a whopping 7 hours! The views were absolutely breathtaking, but I had to be extra careful because of my dodgy ankles. We set off at 6am and didn’t get back until 8pm. You start at the top of the gorge, hike down, then catch a ferry and a bus back to your car.

One of the highlights of our time in Crete was going on a Wine, Honey, and Olive Oil tour. It was hands down the best tour we’ve ever taken, and we went with Chania Wine Tours—highly recommended!

After Crete, we spent 5 days in Athens. I would have loved more time on mainland Greece, but we had to head home to send the bow thruster motor in to be rebuilt and to attend our niece’s wedding. While we were there, we visited some incredible sights, including the Acropolis of Athens, the Ancient Agora, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus.

This post is getting pretty long, so I’ll end it here and start another one covering what we’ve been up to since the wedding and our return to the boat. Stay tuned!”