It's now been over a month since our first arrival to Crescent City. After seeking further advice on the rudder we realized that it's not a major issue. Though it is an annoyance to have a little play, there is no risk of the rudder falling off. I'm starting to relax, sort of. Knowing how it was constructed I have faith that we will make it south just fine. We will have the boat pulled once we get to Mexico and make repairs there.
When we left Seattle, we were in a mad rush to get all the work done and leave. Since then, I have felt as though we've been rushing ever since. While I still have many chores to finish on the boat, I'm learning that it never really ends. Therefore, we've been learning to figure out which things need to be done, and work on the rest at a more opportune time. At some point one simply needs to decide to go.

This past month has had some benefits. Mandy, Vianne and I have had a nice break together, being a family. Life aboard has slowed down. We've been making the transition from life ashore with all its high paced craziness, to a more palatable cruising speed. I'm amazed at how little we truly need to live. What's even more amazing is how my definition of living is changing. It's been the greatest pleasure to finally sleep in, as much as Mandy and Vianne allow me to. We get up and have slow mornings, I drink my coffee with my wife and daughter and we visit over breakfast. This isn't to say that we are not working. Instead simply living has become a full time job; it takes all of our time. However, isn't this what the cruising life is all about? While I wasn't planning on staying here a month, we have had the opportunity to meet some wonderful people and build relationships that would not have been possible otherwise. It's been a good stay.
Now weather is starting to turn. The wind has shifted out of the south and it's been raining for a week straight. Listening to the weather forecast, it has been calling for small craft advisories and continued rain. We are determined to head south at the first chance we get. However, Boreas is much more prepared now and I feel confident in her ability to carry us though.