Irma's Impact

While Hurricane Irma visited the Sunshine State, my sweet T & I were hunkered down with a few of our favorite things, safe from Irma's wrath. It was an emotionally charged week leading up to Mother Nature's impending disaster, which left most of it's devastation South of us. With it's flip flop track no one knew if they should flee or just prepare to ride it out. When hurricane Jeanne whipped through, we lost our roof to a mini tornado and was displaced from our home for 9 months. While I'm usually worried about hurricanes, that one was the least of my worries- go figure. At any rate, I knew I wanted my daughter with me as she's always been. Her group home was evacuated along with multiple neighborhoods, but she would stay with me regardless.

Initially I almost drove to Georgia, but Irma dropped from a category 5, to a 4, and finally a 3, so I figured we'd stay. An 8 hour car ride into the unknown, with a special needs young adult probably wasn't the ideal situation. My gas tank was full, but gas was scarce and traffic jams were inevitable. My anxiety level was at an all time high, especially when the hurricane intensified and was tracking straight for us here on the West Coast. A friend invited us to their work place, which could withstand high winds and they had a generator. The decision to go hunker down there was made. I was trying not to incur panic onto T, and keep things as light and normal as I could, but she's one smart cookie. Seeing me pack, then moving again to yet another location she became anxious. She wanted to leave immediately, began crying and lunged towards the door. I remembered breaking down in private the night before. I told her not to be scared, mommy would be with her, and everything would be okay. I tried to believe it myself.. And said a prayer with her. She calmed a bit, and smiled. Her safety was key.

The realization that those you love, and all you have, could be ripped from your life so quickly hits you with a force of a cat 5 hurricane mentally. Preparations were underway, as the TV projected Irmas whereabouts and final destination. Friends and family from out of state were voicing their concern. During the storm surprisingly we both slept soundly. The following day partial power was lost and the generator didn't kick in, so movie time for T was interrupted. Those who have children on the spectrum, or with any special needs know how this turns out, as routine is of the utmost importance- major behavioral meltdown. My nerves were shot and my legs were bruised- but we got through it like any other.

Post Irma we thanked our lucky stars our lives, our homes, our community was spared with minimal damage, as sadness for others who weren't washed over us. Clean up began, power outages rampant, and with businesses affected we were already mentally and emotionally drained. It was apparent there was no getting around  physical exhausten as well. We either heard of, or experienced those who take advantage in vulnerable times; but the light of so many angels in disguise surpassed the negative. God places people, situations, and opportunities in our path. I allowed my fear to overpower my ability to trust in Him.

When faced with adversity that is when our strength is found. Irma's impact taught us that leaning on one another, having a tiny bit of faith, and finding hope along the way builds a foundation of strength that will supercede anything that may come our way.   

A glimpse into our story

The Boat Life

As I sit at my 'kitchen' table this morning on my boat, aka home sweet home, it is truly a surreal feeling. We moved onto the boat at the end of July & are finally settled in. Rain welcomed us, continuing for some time, even weeks later. Soon the sun showed up to say hello & finding our groove wasn't too difficult. It was comforting to meet so many others who live aboard as well. I have to say, organization is a must with minimal space and trust me, I have utilized most of it. All the necessities &most of the comforts of home can be found aboard Summer Reign. Since we both are still working the morning routine can be a bit difficult due to space. You learn to make adjustments & it somehow works. Things that are different include being hooked up to shore power, filling a tank for water usage, using a gas stove, downsizing to a  coffee press, a small fridge & a tiny sink, no closet space, having a composting toilet, the bathroom being your shower area & lets not forget remembering to duck your head in certain places. I'm learning to be a morning person and the sunrise view from my window is enticing. When I step off my 'porch', walk down a dock with rows of sailboats on either side  I am usually thinking, how cool is this?  The sunsets that glow, then find themselves lost in the city skyline are simply amazing. At night we sit outside on the bow to take in the evening's intriguing presence. The water ripples as the moon smiles down and I know this is where we were meant to be. Home sweet home.                                                             Be sure to follow for more stories about the boat life with Captn Paul, First Mate April, sweet T the swab/2nd mate & Rocky the pirate dog! Our future plan is to reture early, not have a home base marina & just sail away, visit new places, and stay where we want for however long we want. I'll be sure to share our adventures with you!                                                photos by April K Corbett

.... the adventure continues

July 20th 2015

Thankfully the service guy was able to sneak us in between other jobs and it was a quick fix. Somewhere along the line we were sold bad fuel. Summer Reign is back on the water! Fort Meyers bound. I cried as we unhooked shore power, bye bye a/c, but there's an awesome breeze though.

Made it to Sanibel Marina just before sunset.


July 21st 2015

I've seen more sunrises on this trip then I've seen in my entire life. I do believe I'm becoming a morning person. Got fuel for the boat and fuel for us- coffee! 7am was go time!

Wish we had more time to explore. Loved he lighthouse in Sanibel and I vow to return soon.

With the open water and the sun rising before us we set off once again.

8 hours in and I'm now ready to get off this boat. Thoughts of land danced in my head. Captain Paul was ready to continue on but after another 3 hours we were looking up the next marina. There was no way I wanted to anchor out as the waters were increasingly becoming angrier, and so was I.
We weren't making it home today. Sarasota was close and that's where we landed- I landed myself a broken finger. Entering the marina after hours there was no assistance, which was the case prior but with no incident. I didn't leave enough rope or space between the cleat and caught a few fingers in between, breaking one. At this point the sun has set, we were hungry, thirty, hot and tired. There was a restaurant there so we found a spot by the water and celebrated our victory thus far,  while icing my finger.

July 22nd 2015

Today we headed into the intercoastal for a smoother sail. Fine by me! Along the way we had encountered a few fixed bridges which raised my anxiety level. Now I'm not afraid to drive over them but going under is another story. It says so many feet and you know your mast is shorter but it looks deceiving. The draw bridges were fine, and I became familiar with talking on the radio to the bridge masters, learning the channels to use etc. Our stop for fuel at Bradenton Marina was interesting since our drive leg wasn't functioning properly making reverse null to void. So stressful.
Eventually we made it into Tampa Bay with the Skyway Bridge in our sights. This afternoon we arrived at St Petersburg with relief written all over our faces and smiles in our hearts. We made it!  Teamwork teamwork teamwork!

Overall our boating adventure was a huge success! So many enjoyable moments and memories made. I think I may have to write a book to share the many details still to tell. Summer Reign was a gem of a find. Moving aboard July 26th which opens up a whole new chapter in our life.

Be sure to follow along for more stories of the boat life!

The Adventures of Summer Reign

July 14th 2015

So as of this date we are officially boat owners!
Overwhelmed and excited all at once. The adventure begins!


July 16th & 17th 2015

After signing paperwork, having the boat detailed and checking out of our room in Key Largo we boarded Summer Reign for our adventure home. As we loaded up the boat up with essentials it honestly felt surreal. We we're finally heading out. First stop- Marathon. Or so we thought.
Celebrating with a champagne toast as we sail towards our dreams.
Before long night was upon us as we ate dinner by Coleman light.
I took over the helm for a while to give hubs a break, convincing him I was a fabulous first mate while convincing myself that I could indeed do this as a feeling of accomplishment washed over me.
Entering the marina in the middle of the night was challenging. I stood on the bow helping guide our way as Captain Paul maneuvered us in like a boss. We tied up at the gas dock until we could move into a slip a few hours later at the first sign of dawn.

The two of us make an amazing team, but we'll never boat after dark in unknown territory again. Timing was a bit of an issue since we left later than expected.  Needless to say we got about two hours sleep and needed some R&R. I was ready to take advantage of the amenities that Marathon Marina had to offer before heading back out at the crack of dawn.

July 18th 2015

Hello sunrise, of many I would see in the days ahead. An entire day on the water was upon us. I prepared a breakfast of fruit, muffins and OJ, read almost the entire book titled Blue Mind, helped Paul at the helm, sat out on the deck and even took a nap. No cares in the world. Dolphins, manatees, birds and skipping fish welcomed us into the Florida Bay. The water was smooth as glass.

Realizing Marco Island was o attainable by sunset the decision was made to moor out for the night. Hatches were opened, fans were turned on and we prayed for a cool evening since without shore power or a generator there is no a/c. We anchored out just before taking in an incredible sunset while sharing cocktails and conversation. The stars appeared painted across the sky and while the moon disappeared it was time to catch some Zzzzzz's.

July 19th 2015

Unfortunately the calm waters turned choppy into the night and I did not sleep well. As that queasy feeling took over it lasted into today which mean I was lying down most of the day wishing for the rocking of the boat too stop. Rain was cooling things off but also causing rough seas. I started feeling better later on, just in time for the engine to act up. We weren't making good time and it was obvious it was going to take longer than expected to get home. There wasn't much wind but we hoisted a sail anyways. Bad fuel was the likely culprit as the engine quit. So close to Rose Marina, yet so far away.  Tow Boat USA to the rescue! Sundays the marina repair shop is closed, so we hunkered down for the night. It was an exhausting day and I thought about those ruby red slippers more than once. The staff at Rose Marina were genuinely kind and I was able to get necessities at their ship shop, shower and order food from a local delivery place. Chatting with a few employees it was evident that this was where we were meant to be.

Summer Reign

We'll be there soon Summer Reign! It's a miracle hubby & I haven't strangled one another through out this boat purchasing process. I believe God has been testing and teaching us patience. I've learned I'm not as patient as I thought. Monday we close! 7/13/15 will be our closing date and you know what? It's perfect! To some the #13 is unlucky but quite the opposite for me. Lucky 13! A favorite of mine. Luck and superstitions are not my thing, so even though we had to wait a few extra days there's a reason for that. First we expected it to be last week, then the 10th and sadly we were told the 14th.. the 13th won. With the sellers in Canada, the broker in Maryland and the boat in Florida it hasn't been smooth sailing as of yet. A name change is imminent. Don't you just love Summer Reign?

This weekend we pack up so Monday we can head out to meet her, make her ours and sail her home! Our journey continues on into a new adventure as we experience a different lifestyle altogether. Living on a sailboat is new to us and I'm sure there will be some adjustments to be made; especially with a teenager visiting and a puppy dog on board. Even so, the positives outweighs any of the worries we might have. After all Cesar Milan is only an email away and I'm not afraid to use him. Ha! Moments are to be cherished so that's what we intend to do. Simply breathe in breathe out while letting go, in turn cherishing every moment. As a child I do recall being fearful of the water,(not sure why) ironically only pools, of which I did get over; but the ocean was a different story. The beach always beckoned as the sound of the waves put me at ease. I cannot wait to morph into the mermaid I was born to be, telling stories of Summer Reign along the way.  April k Corbett photo by AKC

Travelling Voyage- the offer was...

ACCEPTED! Even though there was a counteroffer the sellers response offered us a huge sigh of relief.  Next,  we scheduled the survey and once we verify the results of the boat are legit it should be smooth sailing from there. Ah, I must keep a sense of humor through out this process. Our journey has only begun. Most of the people we've dealt with have been nothing but helpful and kind. I won't mention right now who the difficult ones have been but I will say its disappointing to say the least. They have one chance to redeem themselves and then I will share their name & the company they're employed with. But enough about their rudeness, I refuse to allow one individual with a personality flaw to steal my joy. Let's just say as a writer they could be added into my next novel only to find themselves removed rather quickly. ha! Next week the survey will be complete and paperwork will be shuffled around. Before you know it we'll be sitting on our boat, in our new home making a toast as she sails us into the sunset. It is finally happening! Hubby still won't celebrate until all is finalized. Here I sit, sipping my vino doing the happy dance inside my head as all those feelings are voicing their opinions, concerns and excitement - sort of like the new movie Inside Out. I remind myself this is not a movie, this is reality; our reality. We didn't only follow our dreams, we chased them, and little by little those dreams are being captured. One of these days when I'm writing my next book, the next New York Times best seller, I will reach out and yell GOTCHA! 

Travelling Voyage- Great Expectations' of our own

Pulling up to the no name marina after a five hour drive we weren't sure what to expect. The plan was to meet a guy who helps the out of state broker show their listings in the Keys. He met us at the gate and from phone conversations he fit the description in my mind- no fuss, laid back, and friendly. He directed me to the restroom on site and as I walked towards them I was a bit surprised to see a small horse slowly approach from the corners bend. When I came out he was situated directly in front of the exit. I slid out the door,  said a quick hello and joined the guys on the dock. Our chariot in waiting was a small boat with only a ledge to sit on. Hoping it wouldn't rain again, the sun peeked out at us and we were off. Zooming across the waters with the salty spray of the sea and wind my hair I was taking the moment in with pure enjoyment. Once we reached the bridge we could see what quite possibly could become our future home, the catamaran in question.  He tied up along side and we climbed aboard. A wave of emotions splashed over me, and as I later learned my husband as well;  disappointment and excitement. It was definitely in need of some long overdue TLC. Realizing as we looked her over this would not be a problem, as long as they were willing to accept a lower bid. Before we were done raindrops beckoned us to leave. It didn't matter. At that moment it just meant we were closer to making our dream a reality. As the rain picked up it was time to head back and so we sped across the waters with the rain pelting at us. I was grateful the boat guy had loaned me his jacket. Thoughts of the future danced across my mind. The boat life seems right, and wasn't the rain a sign of good luck? Although I don't believe in luck I do believe in blessings. What's meant to be will be; and there was a peace that came over me as we watched the lightning in the distance. Soon we were back on land, off to the hotel to clean up for dinner and have the discussion on whether or not to make an offer. They say sleep on it, pray about it, weigh the pros & cons... check, check & check. Today we put in an offer! Now we wait. Well, that's nothing new. Good things come to those who wait, right?
photo credit April K Corbett

Travelling Voyage: A Glimpse

Back to the Keys we will go! Why you ask? Well, it just so happens we will be looking at another boat! Yes! I believe it is 'the' one. There's a feeling of tranquility as I look out on the horizon catching a glimpse of what is to come. The anticipation has taken my fingernails and all I seem to do is daydream. Every emotion we've gone through has been worth it- otherwise it would not be called an adventure. To us it will be epic, glorious if you will, the day we board our vessel to sail it home. As we inch closer I am still wittling down our belongings and am in awe at how little we have left. Let me just tell you how freeing this feels! Hubby is teaching me the ropes of sailing - verbage, equipment,  techniques etc. Hopefully I'll make a fabulous 1st mate, and I have the utmost confidence in hubs that he will be the best captain the seas have ever met.                      photo credit: April K Corbett taken from Fish Tales in St Petersburg FL

Travelling Voyage: the search continues

It was an exciting trip to the Keys as my husband and I anticipated finding our future home- a sailboat. We didn't however anticipate it not being the one for us. This journey has had its highs and lows. I think we're both a bit discouraged by what's available, cost, loan dealings etc; but we know it will happen. What we want and what God has for us can be two entirely different things. He knows our hearts desire and is working in His realm to help us accomplish our goal in our realm. We found another boat and are pending a call back from the dealer.  I can already feel the wind rushing through my hair as I picture myself sailing away to some exotic island while sippin on some sunshine. Like the tshirt we saw says ' sell your stuff, keep the dog and live on a boat' ... that's the plan!  photo credit April K Corbett in Key Largo *Photo contest winner at Share A Little Sunshine on FB.