The wind is howling, the skies an angry shade of grey. I can’t stand without bracing myself as the boat shimmies and shakes. All this while at anchor.
A frontal trough is moving through the area bringing high winds and squalls. It’s a good time to be in a quiet anchorage.
After a restless night, checking anchor and boat position, closing and opening hatches as rain comes and goes, it’s nice to review pictures of our cruising life.
Even as we sail in the tropical paradise of the Caribbean, I reflect how much of our day to day life comes with self imposed stressed.
Every once in a while we encounter someone that creates a sense of awe. This fellow we met in Florida, he single handedly sailed his boat into a tiny harbor, dropped the hook in a crowded anchorage and proceeded to set out his midday meal.
You’ll notice the wicker picnic basket and makeshift table. He’s content just to have the day with the wind in his sails, a quiet spot for lunch and a leisurely ride back to his home.
How many of us take the time to really experience those moments in time? Do you have to force yourself to slow down? What did you do recently that gave you this same feeling of calm?
lol…no calm for me since ..um…november? but a mighty pretty picture..makes me a little envious!
Carrie, I bet you take a few minutes each day. Maybe in the shower? Before you close your eyes? I can’t imagine your imagination doesn’t help you take a side trip now and then. 😉
What a sweet boat! That guy knows what works for him and that’s the most important thing. I hope your squalls have moved on.
Patricia, sometimes I just fall in love with what I perceive as the ideal moment in time.
The worst for me is lighting. I can put up with the wind, the angry skies, but lightning bolts? You never know what they are going to do.
I find I am able to slow down more when I’m living on the boat than at home. I’ve got more time to write, exercise, hang with friends. At home, there always seems to be a chore or two to do to get ready for the upcoming sailing season. Winters are the best.
Kristina, I had to smile, as we live on our boat year round, including while on the hard doing boat chores. It’s harder to slow down then, but when you do, it seems more worthy somehow.
Great post!!
I often have to force myself to slow down, take a minute and enjoy. Nice reminder. 🙂
You’re welcome.