We often hear from friends and everyone seems to want to know the same things. What do we like most? What do we like least? What do we miss the most? What don’t we miss? So, because inquiring minds want to know…
What do you like the most about the sailing/cruising life?
Kim: My backyard continually changes. It’s always beautiful and I don’t have to maintain it. There are wild flowers, birds and sea life galore. Mountains, meadows and, of course, lots of water. I’m in awe of God’s creation each and every day.
Clay: We are surrounded by nature. Our days revolve around the wind, weather and water. We are constantly seeing new plants, birds and wildlife on land and sea.
What do you like the least about the sailing/cruising life?
Kim: My backyard continually changes. Oft times, I feel very displaced and am not sure how to answer people when they ask me where I live. And there are days when I’m just tired. Tired of figuring out what the weather holds in store and what that means for where we should hunker down for a night or more. Tired of constantly being on the move. Tired of not having a land home to go to where it doesn’t matter how hard the wind blows or from what direction.
Clay: Sundown keeps us safe as long as we take care of her. It requires developing new habits and routines. No more mowing the lawn, but we regularly need to check bilges, battery water, and keep our systems running well. We have no house to paint or shingle, or garden to tend, but Sundown does need paint, varnish, waterline cleaning and deck maintenance which takes time away from sailing and exploring our waterfront backyard wherever we are.
What do you miss the most?
Kim: My boys, my mom, my dog, my friends and other family. I also miss the connection provided by my day-to-day work in Fort Collins and Larimer County. Yea, I’m still virtually connected and hopefully provide some meaningful value to the community since my work is based there, but it’s not the same. I also miss riding my bike most days. Running and hiking have taken over as my main forms of activity. While I like those, I’m bummed I don’t have the chance or need to ride more.
Clay: Friends and family.
What don’t you miss?
Kim: I don’t miss my house nor all the stuff we got rid of. Living simply and minimally is great! I don’t miss yard work either. Why would I when I have beautiful backyards everywhere we go and I don’t have to do anything to make them that way? I also don’t miss having a motor vehicle. Active transportation is the best! Lastly, I don’t miss the monotonous daily grind.
Clay: I don’t miss the politics of my old job.
Why did you choose to do this crazy thing?
Kim: Life is short. We’ve had very recent reminders of that with the death of more than one friend. Whenever possible, we have to take advantage of the opportunities we’re given to live life to the fullest–to live our adventure!
Clay: I really believe this is the true “American Dream.” America was founded on pioneers and explorers. It was not founded on a day-after-day, year-after-year grind to retirement when you are to old and sick to work…and then you die.
So, whatever your adventure is, no matter how big or small, go live
it!
I love this…. & you two!! Thanks for sharing. You two are incredible souls. May God continue to bless you & keep you. Abrazos from beautiful NC! If you ever find your wandering selves out this way, call me & come stay a bit! 😉
I miss you, Laura! I trust you’re well and living your adventures, too.
These are great kids. Wonderful insights into your dreams from all sides. Thanks for the share. Wishing you well and weller!
Thanks, Mark.