While Pete worked, I was able to insert the last of the photos and do the final edits. It is only 2 days since the end of November and the blog is posted! WooHoo!!!
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| Camellias blooming! |
We are still in a holding pattern waiting to hear from the mechanic about a possible transmission. Pete called and left a message for both Mr. Jimmy and Amber, the project manager. Neither have returned our phone calls as of now. Since it’s that time of day, there is one other thing that’s kind of bugging me. That is meal planning. I have a number of premade meals in the freezer. However, with our departure date unknown, and at least 15 days of travel to Fort Pierce, I’m hesitant to use up the premade meals. I think I’m gonna just say the hell with it and start eating some
After thinking about no Christmas on the boat, I figured out how to hang the tree without scratching the wood as we move. I lined the back of it with PressOn Plastic wrap. It is thicker and I can cover the entire back of the tree. I adjusted the attached bows, the attached small round ornaments, and placed my garland “puff” balls in among the branches. The good ornaments will wait, probably until next Christmas.
Tuesday, 12/2/25 ~
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| Computer comes out and Tillie reports as executive assistant! |
Pete had some work to do while I just hung around and relaxed. My grocery list is made and I need to go get my flu shot, but today it is pouring. There is a heavy rain/snow precipitation storm that covers the entire East Coast. Temperatures here are in the low 40s. The winds are gusting up to about 25 and it is very raw. I have no desire to venture outside, so coloring books, here I come!
Wednesday, 12/3/25 ~
It was a very quiet morning. Pete had a couple of things to do and then Tilly convinced him to go sit up in the cockpit. It is her favorite place to be. However, she feels that it is no good unless one or both of us are up there with her. Thankfully, the enclosure stops whatever breezes there are, and the sun intensifies the temperature inside. It’s actually, fairly comfortable.
Yesterday, Pete commented about me making an appointment to get my hair trimmed and dyed. I’ve been very hesitant to set up an appointment because I don’t know where we will be or when. He convinced me to call Lisa, my person on Kent Island, and see if she has any time on 23rd of December. I thought: fat chance! The day before Christmas Eve, everybody’s trying to get home for the holidays. I called with very little expectations and boy, did I get lucky. She had an opening at 3 pm! Talk about a Christmas Miracle! We will stop there on our travels north, then continue to Greg and Jenn’s, no problem. It’ll be great to cover up the 2 inches of gray that is showing all around my head. I can’t believe I have that much gray and so little of my natural color remaining. I have thought about it, but I’m very hesitant to let my hair grow out naturally. I think it’s really gonna make me look “old” and I’m not ready to embrace old age!
I also had to reschedule my Cardio follow up, again! There’s no way we will be close enough to make the appointment in Miami on December 11th. I was able to push it back a month. We better be in Florida by that point!
When I walked Tillie around 9:30, as I walked up the ramp, there was a sound of water dumping into the marina. It was coming from a pipe that drained the parking lot. Once up on land, I could see that cones had been placed making a problem area and the areas where water was running freely from the problem area to the drain. A water pipe broke.
Thursday, 12/4/25 ~
I am pondering the difficulty of meal planning again! Trying to anticipate cruising days with pre-made meals that just need to be defrosted and heated, but not knowing just when we ARE leaving, I have about 9 meals still prepared, but it looks like we will be here another week. However, once we leave, we hope to keep moving. We would like to be closer to Ft. Pierce before Christmas, but our window is getting smaller, and that doesn’t take the weather into account.
I stopped at Walgreens for my prescriptions and to get my flu shot. Next stop was Walmart for provisions and then on to Publix to finish up. The sky was clear when I left the marina. Coming out of Walmart, the they were totally overcast and dark to the west. The rain came just as I was leaving Publix. Of course, I was parked at the opposite end of the parking lot. Once back at the marina, there was a small break in the rain. It gave us a chance to unload the car and get it all on board. The tricky part was the dock ramp. It was the lowest tide we have seen here in Myrtle Beach. The ramp angle was so steep, we needed to spread the groceries into 3 carts instead of 1 to safely get them down the ramp.
Thursday, 12/4/25 ~
I am pondering the difficulty of meal planning again! Trying to anticipate cruising days with pre-made meals that just need to be defrosted and heated, but not knowing just when we ARE leaving, I have about 9 meals still prepared, but it looks like we will be here another week. However, once we leave, we hope to keep moving. We would like to be closer to Ft. Pierce before Christmas, but our window is getting smaller, and that doesn’t take the weather into account.
I stopped at Walgreens for my prescriptions and to get my flu shot. Next stop was Walmart for provisions and then on to Publix to finish up. The sky was clear when I left the marina. Coming out of Walmart, the they were totally overcast and dark to the west. The rain came just as I was leaving Publix. Of course, I was parked at the opposite end of the parking lot. Once back at the marina, there was a small break in the rain. It gave us a chance to unload the car and get it all on board. The tricky part was the dock ramp. It was the lowest tide we have seen here in Myrtle Beach. The ramp angle was so steep, we needed to spread the groceries into 3 carts instead of 1 to safely get them down the ramp.
Very low tide!
Friday, 12/5/25 ~
It was another cool day, with winds once again from the north. I relaxed and read while Pete finished up a couple of work projects.
We were disappointed that we haven’t heard about the delivery of the transmission yet. I guess it was overly optimistic that it might be received today.
We were disappointed that we haven’t heard about the delivery of the transmission yet. I guess it was overly optimistic that it might be received today.
Water is still running from the broken pipe in the parking lot. People who have boats and cars beyond the break, have moved their cars to the main parking area, closest to our dock. I wonder why the water is still running.
Saturday, 1/6/25 ~
The temps dropped throughout the day. The rains are coming with the cold front.
Stopped by the office and chatted with the staff. Last winter, they had to clear 8 inches from the dock. The cold water just below the docks kept the temps down so the snow wouldn’t melt. The real challenge was trying to find a snow shovel this far south! They used regular, 10-inch-wide dirt shovels to push the wet, heavy snow into the water. Snow is not something we have had to deal with in a very long while! The main reason I stopped in was to request another week of dockage. By the way, we pay an annual fee for our Castle Harbor slip, and Pete already paid for our slip in Ft. Pierce for December, along with the last month’s payment of our stay there. Yup. It’s a B.O.A.T. (Break Out Another Thousand!)
With Mom’s passing last December, we never sent out cards. I wanted to make sure this year’s cards are sent. I spent the morning writing out the Christmas cards while Pete printed address labels. Stamps have gotten so expensive. It was a bit of sticker shock. They are now 78 cents! With the internet, we very seldom have something that must be mailed.
The afternoon, I started on my Christmas ornaments. For the past few years, I have created “Christmas jewelry” for the tree. I usually get inspired in the craft jewelry department. I design the ornament usually in a single string or wire depending on the stones. This year, the pickings were very slim at Michael’s and I had no inspiration. Instead, I found blue satin-finished balls and opted to paint them. Pete has given them rave reviews. I look forward to giving them to family.
Sunday, 12/7/25 ~
The promised cold, winds and heavy rains came, making it very raw outside. It was a great day to make my chicken, sausage, Spanish rice and beans. It was warm, comforting and Yummy! The best part is that there are 3 more dinners that went into the freezer!
Tillie ate some grapes this afternoon, so had to give her hydrogen peroxide. Pete was heading to get a fresh bottle from the store when he met our dock mates who have 2 golden doodles. They gave us their bottle of peroxide to speed up the process. Of course, the hour Pete spent up above met with no success. Once down below, she christened my new rugs extremely well! Thankfully, she has no side effects from the induced vomiting, though I don’t know if she will be as enthusiastic eating “funny tasting” apple sauce (in which we mixed in the peroxide) ever again!
Monday, 12/8/25 ~
Today’s temperatures continue to linger in the 40’s. The rain and heavy winds are gone.
I headed up this morning to get the laundry done. The machines were busy, but emptied as I arrived and someone came in just as I was finishing up. Perfect timing!
After lunch, I finished painting the Christmas ornaments. I was able to order a set of calligraphy pens in white, black and gold needed to finish up. They should arrive on Thursday.
We are still in a holding pattern. Still no update regarding the transmission.
Pete ran a few errands and picked up 2 peroxides, one for Lynn & John on MV SAND STORM. He also picked up new bulbs for the car’s headlights. One is burned out and needs replacement
Tuesday, 12/9/25 ~
The cooler temperatures have been around for about a week. We’ve seen morning temperatures in the 30s with icy spots on the dock. The highs have been in the upper 40s or mid-50s. The winds have come and gone, so sometimes there’s a windchill factor that must be applied. Everyone says this is highly unusual for Myrtle Beach. I think it is our CCK (current crazy karma) affecting the weather.
Today was a lazy day. Pete did a lot of reading. He actually braved the cold to sit up above with Tilly for about a half hour. That was all he could take before he was sent down below, feeling like an icicle. I did some reading, then pulled out my coloring book. It was great way to spend the afternoon.
It is a very active time for solar storms created by the sun. This in turn has caused some spectacular auroras. The Facebook group, KNOW YOUR PLANET posted:
Saturday, 1/6/25 ~
The temps dropped throughout the day. The rains are coming with the cold front.
Stopped by the office and chatted with the staff. Last winter, they had to clear 8 inches from the dock. The cold water just below the docks kept the temps down so the snow wouldn’t melt. The real challenge was trying to find a snow shovel this far south! They used regular, 10-inch-wide dirt shovels to push the wet, heavy snow into the water. Snow is not something we have had to deal with in a very long while! The main reason I stopped in was to request another week of dockage. By the way, we pay an annual fee for our Castle Harbor slip, and Pete already paid for our slip in Ft. Pierce for December, along with the last month’s payment of our stay there. Yup. It’s a B.O.A.T. (Break Out Another Thousand!)
With Mom’s passing last December, we never sent out cards. I wanted to make sure this year’s cards are sent. I spent the morning writing out the Christmas cards while Pete printed address labels. Stamps have gotten so expensive. It was a bit of sticker shock. They are now 78 cents! With the internet, we very seldom have something that must be mailed.
The afternoon, I started on my Christmas ornaments. For the past few years, I have created “Christmas jewelry” for the tree. I usually get inspired in the craft jewelry department. I design the ornament usually in a single string or wire depending on the stones. This year, the pickings were very slim at Michael’s and I had no inspiration. Instead, I found blue satin-finished balls and opted to paint them. Pete has given them rave reviews. I look forward to giving them to family.
Sunday, 12/7/25 ~
The promised cold, winds and heavy rains came, making it very raw outside. It was a great day to make my chicken, sausage, Spanish rice and beans. It was warm, comforting and Yummy! The best part is that there are 3 more dinners that went into the freezer!
Tillie ate some grapes this afternoon, so had to give her hydrogen peroxide. Pete was heading to get a fresh bottle from the store when he met our dock mates who have 2 golden doodles. They gave us their bottle of peroxide to speed up the process. Of course, the hour Pete spent up above met with no success. Once down below, she christened my new rugs extremely well! Thankfully, she has no side effects from the induced vomiting, though I don’t know if she will be as enthusiastic eating “funny tasting” apple sauce (in which we mixed in the peroxide) ever again!
Monday, 12/8/25 ~
Today’s temperatures continue to linger in the 40’s. The rain and heavy winds are gone.
I headed up this morning to get the laundry done. The machines were busy, but emptied as I arrived and someone came in just as I was finishing up. Perfect timing!
After lunch, I finished painting the Christmas ornaments. I was able to order a set of calligraphy pens in white, black and gold needed to finish up. They should arrive on Thursday.
We are still in a holding pattern. Still no update regarding the transmission.
Pete ran a few errands and picked up 2 peroxides, one for Lynn & John on MV SAND STORM. He also picked up new bulbs for the car’s headlights. One is burned out and needs replacement
Tuesday, 12/9/25 ~
Today was a lazy day. Pete did a lot of reading. He actually braved the cold to sit up above with Tilly for about a half hour. That was all he could take before he was sent down below, feeling like an icicle. I did some reading, then pulled out my coloring book. It was great way to spend the afternoon.
It is a very active time for solar storms created by the sun. This in turn has caused some spectacular auroras. The Facebook group, KNOW YOUR PLANET posted:
Senja, Norway witnessed one of the rarest sky events ever recorded: towering “Tall White Auroras” rising like ghostly pillars above the horizon. Unlike the familiar greens and reds of typical auroras, these pale, almost colorless beams appear only during unusually intense geomagnetic conditions — so rare that many scientists go their entire careers without seeing one.What makes them so strange is that even though auroras are born from charged particles colliding with gases high in the atmosphere, these appeared nearly pure white to the human eye. Some researchers suggest that the auroral emissions were so bright they overwhelmed the eye’s ability to register color, creating the illusion of white light. Others propose that ice crystals or atmospheric scattering may have intensified the effect. Whatever the cause, the result was a phenomenon that does not fit neatly into the patterns we think we understand.Witnesses described the beams as “silent lightning” and “columns reaching into space,” rising straight upward like cathedral pillars. They seemed almost disconnected from the familiar shimmering curtains of the auroral oval, more like something out of myth than meteorology.Events like this are a reminder that Earth's magnetic and atmospheric systems still hold mysteries. Even with satellites, all-sky cameras, and real-time solar data, nature occasionally reveals something that forces scientists to rethink what’s possible.If these ultra-rare white auroras are appearing more frequently during heightened solar activity, the coming years may reveal even more strange and beautiful sky events we’ve barely begun to understand.
Wednesday, 12/10/25 ~
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| Pete saw snow this morning in Virginia |
While traveling, he spoke with Arlene, the mechanic’s assistant here in Myrtle Beach. Mr. Jimmy wants to be here for the installation, but unfortunately, he is currently under the weather. He has scheduled us for next Monday and Tuesday. I guess we’ll be paying for another week.
I took advantage and scrubbed the bathroom, the salon, galley, as well as defrosted the refrigerator. It seems to be so much easier when I have the boat to myself. All in all, it was a productive day for both of us. Now, we are both looking forward to a really yummy dinner.
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| Isn't she pretty! |
We headed back to the boat after dinner. With such a full stomach, Pete was very content and sleepy. I watched TV for a short while until it was time to take the dog out for a walk. Over the course of the evening, the boat began to rock more and more. When I walked Tillie at 9:45, winds were listed at 12 mph. By the time I came back 15 minutes later they’re listed at 19 with gusts at 35. Needless to say, the boat be a rockin’ tonight!
Pete and I talked and we’re not sure what we’re going to do as far as departing from here. If everything goes well, conceivably, we should be able to leave next Wednesday, but there’s a big consideration. Next Wednesday is the 17th. We are heading to Greg and Jenn‘s on the 23rd. The car is here. When we head south, we’ll have to arrange to get it to wherever we are. If the weather is cooperative, if the engine runs properly and if the stars all align, we might make it to Beauford, North Carolina by then. BUT it would be longs days on the shortest days of the year. We would also have to deduct a day because we need a day to come up and pick up the car, pack it up and then leave. Is it really worth it? Cruisers are always advised “NOT TO HAVE A SCHEDULE.” We are in a protected
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| Tonight's Sunset |
Thursday, 12/11/25 ~
Our departure discussions continued this morning. The more we think about our cruising options, the better we feel about staying until after Christmas. I called the office and found that it is cheaper for us to pay the month’s dockage rather than continue the weekly and then per day fees if we stay a few days longer. Diane and Melissa will be disappointed with our decision, but truthfully, it is the best option.
My phone once again didn’t charge last night. It has been happening more frequently. After receiving an offer from Verizon for a free new phone, we investigated further and discussed options, then headed to the Verizon Store. We waited almost 90 minutes for a rep. It seems that once you are working with a rep, he/she stays with you until everything is completed. It sounds
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| The I-Dock guys minus Pete |
good, BUT the reality is that all 4 reps remained with their clients for almost 2 hours each! The reps helped with the screen and camera protectors, new cases and other accessories. Then the data transfer from their old phones to the new (which alone takes about 90 minutes!) one rep finally felt sorry for us. He left the family, who bought 4 new phones that he was in the process of backing up, to help us. We knew which phones we wanted, the plan we needed to upgrade, as well as extra services. We were in and out with our new phones working un under 15 minutes! With both of us getting new phones, our monthly bill only increased by $2.30 a month and our plan is better!
Once home, we did the transfer, checked apps and updated info required as needed, searched for new cases, cables, plugs and screen / camera protectors, then ordered them through Amazon.
Oh yea! People are finally working on the water pipe break in the parking lot, but it is still flowing.
Friday, 12/12/25 ~
Once back yesterday, we transferred all our files to the new phones all by ourselves. Didn’t have to pay $29 and wait 2-3 hours for it to be done at Verizon. This morning we stopped at Verizon to return our old phones for the credit. Pete turned his over, but I ran into problems with my password. The rep suggested I do the password change on our secure Wi-Fi onboard. I’ll do that this afternoon and return tomorrow.
Friday, 12/12/25 ~
Once back yesterday, we transferred all our files to the new phones all by ourselves. Didn’t have to pay $29 and wait 2-3 hours for it to be done at Verizon. This morning we stopped at Verizon to return our old phones for the credit. Pete turned his over, but I ran into problems with my password. The rep suggested I do the password change on our secure Wi-Fi onboard. I’ll do that this afternoon and return tomorrow.
Pete’s hiking shoes are literally falling apart. He has glued the soles numerous times, but they are beyond needing to be glued. There is a Tanger Outlet in Myrtle Beach. We headed to the Merrel Store and found hiking shoes for both of us. They had a Buy One/Get the 2nd 50% Off!
We grabbed a quick bite to eat before heading to Walmart’s for provisions so that once back from Christmas with the family, I will only have the perishables to pick up.
We grabbed a quick bite to eat before heading to Walmart’s for provisions so that once back from Christmas with the family, I will only have the perishables to pick up.
I spent a good part of the afternoon working on the current blog. I am trying to get as much onto the blog and photos prepped before we head north. Then, I will only have about 10 days to write, proof and then post December’s blog.
Saturday, 12/13/25 ~
Otherwise, it was a lazy day. Pete and Tillie stayed spent a good part of the day in the cockpit. It has definitely become Tillie’s favorite spot. She will climb up and sit on the top step, stare and whine at Pete until he gives into her demands.
We paid for a month’s dockage here at the marina that will keep PEKABU here until we return from the holidays with family and friends in NJ/PA.
We missed the boat parade here in Myrtle Beach, but they had a great one in Key West. These were taken off of Facebook, credit to the photographer.
Festive Holiday Boat Parade as only Key West can do!
Sunday, 12/14/25 ~
We head to Florida to escape this cold!
Eagles had a 1 pm home game in the freezing cold. They finally played a good game after a few weeks of big disappointments.
Oh yea! Tonight’s home made chicken vegetable soup was delicious and perfect for a cold night. The only modification we did for the cold was place an additional blanket over our feet, as they are forward to the anchor locker and the cold.
Monday, 12/15/25 ~
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| Frost on the Windshield- Are you kidding me! |
The heat stayed on all night, keeping us comfortable and warm. This is the first time we have been aboard in such cold temps. . . and hopefully the last! We woke at 6:30 to 19 degrees, 10 Mph WNW with wind chill of 10 degrees!
After Tillie’s shortened walk (due to the cold), we emptied out aft compartment to the forward (our) bunk by 7:30. By 8, breakfast was eaten and our bags packed for an overnight stay at the hotel. We are ready for mechanic.
Around 8:15, Amber called. "NO MECHANICS LEAVING SHOP TODAY due to the cold! Will be here tomorrow." GRRRRR! Pete is furious and let Amber know. These temperatures were predicted. She should have given us a heads up on Friday of the possibility of postponing our mechanic. We would have held off make a reservation. Our reservation is non-refundable and now we need to reserve an extra night.
No problem checking in. However, when we asked to extend, the woman informed us that since the reservation was done by Expedia, it could not be modified. She created a new reservation for tomorrow and kindly gave us the same the price break as Expedia. Since Pete is spending the afternoon with Tillie and I at the hotel, he figured it would be a good opportunity to give Tillie a bath. With it being so cold, he couldn’t do it in the cockpit with cold water. When he was ready to give her a bath, he found we had no water! We really can’t make this up! A pipe broke. They don’t know how long the repair will take.
Tillie loves to bark “I’m soooo bored!” We really don’t want her barking. What’s even more frustrating is that she doesn’t know how to play. 3 attempts at any play and she gives up. The only thing that calms her is put her on her back, on our laps, and rub her belly. She then becomes a limp ball, a very large, furry, limp ball, for at least 15 minutes. She is usually content for another 10-15 minutes. At 3, she is still a work-in-progress. Due to her noise reaction, we kept the TV on and volume low all night. The negative is that some commercials are louder than the programming. The monotone of the programming (at a lower level is conducive to sleep). When it jumps in volume, it’s startling and I woke up confused a number of times. Unlike Pete, it takes me a while to get back to sleep.
Tuesday 12/16/25 ~
After the dog was walked, we took turns going down for breakfast. Then it was off to the marina.
After Tillie’s shortened walk (due to the cold), we emptied out aft compartment to the forward (our) bunk by 7:30. By 8, breakfast was eaten and our bags packed for an overnight stay at the hotel. We are ready for mechanic.
Around 8:15, Amber called. "NO MECHANICS LEAVING SHOP TODAY due to the cold! Will be here tomorrow." GRRRRR! Pete is furious and let Amber know. These temperatures were predicted. She should have given us a heads up on Friday of the possibility of postponing our mechanic. We would have held off make a reservation. Our reservation is non-refundable and now we need to reserve an extra night.
No problem checking in. However, when we asked to extend, the woman informed us that since the reservation was done by Expedia, it could not be modified. She created a new reservation for tomorrow and kindly gave us the same the price break as Expedia. Since Pete is spending the afternoon with Tillie and I at the hotel, he figured it would be a good opportunity to give Tillie a bath. With it being so cold, he couldn’t do it in the cockpit with cold water. When he was ready to give her a bath, he found we had no water! We really can’t make this up! A pipe broke. They don’t know how long the repair will take.
Tillie loves to bark “I’m soooo bored!” We really don’t want her barking. What’s even more frustrating is that she doesn’t know how to play. 3 attempts at any play and she gives up. The only thing that calms her is put her on her back, on our laps, and rub her belly. She then becomes a limp ball, a very large, furry, limp ball, for at least 15 minutes. She is usually content for another 10-15 minutes. At 3, she is still a work-in-progress. Due to her noise reaction, we kept the TV on and volume low all night. The negative is that some commercials are louder than the programming. The monotone of the programming (at a lower level is conducive to sleep). When it jumps in volume, it’s startling and I woke up confused a number of times. Unlike Pete, it takes me a while to get back to sleep.
Tuesday 12/16/25 ~
After the dog was walked, we took turns going down for breakfast. Then it was off to the marina.
It was another beautiful day with temps in the low 60’s and gentle breezes. I headed up to do laundry. With it being so nice, I took a walk out to the light house and back in time to transfer the clothes into the dryers.
I also took advantage of my walk to play with the new camera (that happens to have a phone and computer attached!)
The tree was taken at midrange lens, the bird in the tree with the 8x zoom and the weeds with macro!
YES! I am impressed!
Lighthouse photo op
Tillie and I went to Calabash, NC for these photos
Pete headed down to the boat while Tillie and I sat in the car. We were waiting for the temperature to climb to at least 35 from 29 when we left the hotel. About an hour later, we did the entire boardwalk around the marina, about a mile and a half each way. Once back, I saw Brian, the mechanic, loading up a dock cart and head to PEKABU. Time check: 10:40. Fingers crossed that all goes smoothly and 2 days are all that is needed for the installation. Tillie and I headed back to the hotel.
Pete said work went well. The engine needed to be moved, not just lifted. That meant all 4 bolts needed to be removed. With things exposed, Brian and Pete checked the damper plate. It is fine as well as the PSS bearing, the last 2 engine parts that might be changed out and, oh yea, the starter also. PHEW!!!
Headed over to pick up Pete around 4:30. I took Tillie for a walk while we waited for Pete.
We were lucky tonight. We had a triple play. We spoke to all 3 kids within a few hours. Everyone is doing fine and dealing with their own craziness.
Oh yea! Once back at the hotel, we added a 3rd night’s stay. Pete is pretty sure that the sea trial won’t be until Thursday. The boat can’t be put back in order (our bed cleared of all that stuff) until AFTER the sea trial.
The temps are slowly rising day by day, but that changes again on Thursday (sea trial day) when another cold front goes through with rain & winds. Thankfully, this one will not be as brutal as Sunday’s.
Wednesday, 12/17/25 ~
Thursday, 12/18/25 ~
Requested late checkout and left around noon. Once back at the boat, we prepped for leaving for the sea trials. Rigged the new aft lines and transferred bumpers to starboard as we are going to back into the dock when we return.
During the sea trial, we passed a couple of fishermen at the mouth of the harbor. They reported seeing a bobcat on the opposite shore just moments ago. We kept looking, but he was nowhere to be seen along the shoreline. However, as we returned, Pete saw a beaver in the water as we reentered the harbor.
Pete said work went well. The engine needed to be moved, not just lifted. That meant all 4 bolts needed to be removed. With things exposed, Brian and Pete checked the damper plate. It is fine as well as the PSS bearing, the last 2 engine parts that might be changed out and, oh yea, the starter also. PHEW!!!
Headed over to pick up Pete around 4:30. I took Tillie for a walk while we waited for Pete.
We were lucky tonight. We had a triple play. We spoke to all 3 kids within a few hours. Everyone is doing fine and dealing with their own craziness.
Oh yea! Once back at the hotel, we added a 3rd night’s stay. Pete is pretty sure that the sea trial won’t be until Thursday. The boat can’t be put back in order (our bed cleared of all that stuff) until AFTER the sea trial.
The temps are slowly rising day by day, but that changes again on Thursday (sea trial day) when another cold front goes through with rain & winds. Thankfully, this one will not be as brutal as Sunday’s.
Wednesday, 12/17/25 ~
Work continues with the water pipe break and the damage it caused.
Brian completed trans work by mid-afternoon. Tillie and I picked up Pete as we are staying the extra day at hotel. We still can’t put the boat back to right. Adjustments might need to be made with the transmission due to the sea trials tomorrow. Thursday, 12/18/25 ~
Requested late checkout and left around noon. Once back at the boat, we prepped for leaving for the sea trials. Rigged the new aft lines and transferred bumpers to starboard as we are going to back into the dock when we return.
During the sea trial, we passed a couple of fishermen at the mouth of the harbor. They reported seeing a bobcat on the opposite shore just moments ago. We kept looking, but he was nowhere to be seen along the shoreline. However, as we returned, Pete saw a beaver in the water as we reentered the harbor.
Let this be the end of one book and the start of a brand new one. Transmission is in, damper plate and PSS bearing checked, engine aligned, and she did beautifully on sea trials!
I wiped down all the surfaces and we put the boat back together. We had a bit of time to read up in the cockpit before dinner.
We have decided. The boat will remain here over the holidays. We head to NJ on Tuesday for a week with family and friends. Once back we have a max of 15 travel days, plus weather and provisioning days. This cruise is definitely one for the books!!!
Friday, 12/19/25 ~
Pete’s hiking shoes are literally falling apart. He has glued the soles numerous times, but they are beyond needing to be glued. There is a Tanger Outlet in Myrtle Beach. We headed to the Merrel Store and found hiking shoes for both of us. They had a Buy One/Get the 2nd 50% Off!
I wiped down all the surfaces and we put the boat back together. We had a bit of time to read up in the cockpit before dinner.
We have decided. The boat will remain here over the holidays. We head to NJ on Tuesday for a week with family and friends. Once back we have a max of 15 travel days, plus weather and provisioning days. This cruise is definitely one for the books!!!
Friday, 12/19/25 ~
Pete’s hiking shoes are literally falling apart. He has glued the soles numerous times, but they are beyond needing to be glued. There is a Tanger Outlet in Myrtle Beach. We headed to the Merrel Store and found hiking shoes for both of us. They had a Buy One/Get the 2nd 50% Off!
We grabbed a quick bite to eat before heading to Walmart’s for provisions so that once back from Christmas with the family, I will only have the perishables to pick up.
Saturday, 12/20/25 ~
Pete had a very busy day:
Saturday, 12/20/25 ~
Pete had a very busy day:
- Checked and topped off batteries after sending Kathy to buy 2 gallons of distilled water.
- Accepted Kathy’s offer to be his “gofer” for as long as he needs.
- Changed engine belt
- Changed engine oil
- Couldn’t find filter wrench. Send Kathy to buy new one
- Lost small screwdriver, found old filter wrench
- Changed engine filters
- Put engine cover back in place and clean tools.
- Head out to return filter wrench, recycle the old oil, order extra belts, buy extra oil and replacement latch for aft locker
- Install new headlight in car
- Put away oil pump, new oil, transmission fluid, antifreeze, and one other container, but I can’t remember its purpose
- Install the latch on the aft locker, clean and put away tools.
- Asked Kathy to walk Tillie while he took Advil and turned on the Eagles Commanders game. They won!!
My day was less packed:
As a headed up to the bathrooms this morning, the fog had rolled in. Great opportunity for photos.
Pete finished the rest of his chores. Items returned to their homes in the aft and cockpit lazarettes, while the remainder went back into the salon lazarette. I finished the Christmas ornaments. They were placed back into their original boxes for safe transport rather than trying to wrap them here.
- Return my old phone to Verizon so we get the credit.
- Being Pete’s “gofer”
- Walked Tillie before dinner
- Prep lunch and dinner
- Organize my stuff so I can finish the ornaments tomorrow.
Pete finished the rest of his chores. Items returned to their homes in the aft and cockpit lazarettes, while the remainder went back into the salon lazarette. I finished the Christmas ornaments. They were placed back into their original boxes for safe transport rather than trying to wrap them here.
We sat up in the cockpit and read for a while. Temperature began falling as the sun spectacularly set on the shortest day of the year. What a sunset!
Reflections of a magnificent sunset
The magnificent sunset
After dinner, we chilled and watched “Conclave” with Albert Finney. It was very different and excellent!
Monday, 12/22/25 ~
Prep time once again. Laundry was done, then we packed our bags for the week. After dinner we loaded the car to enable a faster departure in the morning. We be ready for Christmas!We were on the road by 6:15 this morning. It was about 40 degrees, but no wind as we left the marina. We did great until about 20 miles south of DC. Traffic was heavy with a lot of stops and goes, dispersed among the many slowdowns. We were able to make some time using a couple of side roads. However, even with them, we used all but 2 minutes of our 2-hour buffer to get to my hair appointment on Kent Island.
All the ladies were busy, working like a well-oiled machine handling multiple clients at a time. While I waited for my hair color to set, she cut on young man’s hair and highlighted another woman’s long hair. The four other stylists seemed to be doing the same. Lisa did a fantastic job. My 2-inch grey roots are covered perfectly, and the rest of the color has been brightened to match.
While continuing our journey to NJ, my sister called. Deneen & crew have colds. She wanted to try to reschedule, but we are visiting with the NJ Bruzik’s that day and Debi has company scheduled.
We were glad to get to Greg and Jenn’s around 8:30. However, we weren’t able to get in. We knew they were over at their favorite, neighborhood hang-out, JoJo’s, to meet up with friends. Since we needed a key, should we headed over to surprise them? Yep! That we did! With Greg’s key, we headed back to unload, unpack and simply chill for a short while.
Wednesday, 12/24/25 ~
Today was a great day to just chill. That is, AFTER a few chores were done. Pete picked up a cheesecake from The Cheesecake Factory. They make a to-die-for Godiva Chocolate Cheesecake, which is gluten free. It was perfect since we were assigned dessert that Chris could also enjoy.
I hope I am not jinxing things as I wrapped the 24 Christmas ornaments for the rest of the family we will see while we are here. Christmas, tomorrow, we head to Chris and Kelli’s for a family Christmas with our kids, grandkids, plus Kelli’s family. Friday, we were supposed to meet up with my sibs and family, which is now postponed. Saturday, I meet Carolyn for lunch and Sunday, all of Pete’s family will meet up at Jim and Effie’s. We are looking forward to seeing everyone.
Greg made delicious Chicken Franchise for dinner. I need to ask for the recipe!
Thursday, 12/25/25 Christmas ~
After breakfast, we headed to Chris & Kel’s, about 90 minutes away. Heather was there for the present openings around 8. She made a scrumptious egg frittata with sausage, onions, red peppers, and cheese. Another recipe to request!
It was an unhurried opening of presents interspersed with great stories and lots of laughter.
There was the usual chips, dips, cheeses, and diverse charcuterie spreads. Chris made his great honey mustard glaze for the spiral ham. Sandy brought her delicious potato salad and yummy fruit salad. As usual, everyone had to make room for dessert. Even with small slices of the outrageously delicious cheesecake, many of us were unable to finish it. It was a wonderful day with the family.
Some of my favorite people! We didn't get a chance for full family photos on Christmas. These are from their postings. I wish I had a photo from our daughter to complete this!
Once back at Greg and Jenn’s, we watched the movie “Relay.” It had an unusual and suspenseful storyline with great acting.
Hope your Christmas was filled with love, laughter and special memories, too!
Friday, 12/26/25 ~
The weather is predicted to be bad for the next 24 hours. We are in the band of heavy sleet, snow and freezing temps. It is good that tonight’s visit to Deneen’s was cancelled. I ran to Shoprite to get the fixings for Chili. I was shocked that it was so crowded the day after Christmas! I guess everyone needs their water, milk, eggs and bread for the predicted 4-6 inches of snow.
While Greg and Jenn headed out to join friends, we enjoyed the chili then watched “House of Dynamite.” It was an intense, suspenseful, thriller that left us with more questions than answers.
Saturday, 12/27/25 ~
We awoke to 2 inches of snow and ice. Everything is slippery. Lunch with Carolyn cancelled. Will try for tomorrow.
Since we had time, Greg asked me to sew his USCG patches on his new work shirt. I used their computerized sewing machine, which presented many interesting challenges. All of my sewing experiences have been on very basic machines. I sewed my bridal dress on one of the first “electrified” Singer sewing machines. The Brother Sewing machine, given to me by my Mom, is a work horse, with the basics: forward, back, zigzag and blind stitching. My SailRite does the same though much heavier materials, but no blind stitch. This Brother Computerized Sewing Machine has 60 programmable stitches, 3 locked speeds, and a front to back needle threading. That is a big departure and challenge unlike the other 3 of the machines I have used. It has a different way to load the bobbin, and it stops, vibrates and makes a noise when there is trouble! I thought I broke it!!! I then had to look up the error code to fix the problem. Persistence pays off and Greg is ready for work on Monday.
Sunday, 12/28/25 ~
Everything off the main roads are still coated in ice. Carolyn and I cancelled our luncheon. Now I will have to find a bunch of correct sized boxes to mail the ornaments to 5 households. Damn! I shouldn't have tossed the original ornament's boxes!
Pete and I took advantage to a ride over and pick up the Couscous at Whole Foods (but came out with nothing after remembering Greg and Jenn picked it up for me yesterday!) then the rice crackers from Trader Joe's and the Cooper’s Sharp American Cheese at Shoprite. I picked up 4-half pound bags so that we have some in the freezer to take back with us. I also picked up dessert for dinner tonight-Trader Joe’s Japanese Souffle Cheesecake!
Once back at the house, we started to pack up and condensed process. We decided we leave tomorrow. There is a front coming through with rain and wind, but it shouldn’t impact our travels too much.
Greg made a delicious sausage and pepper couscous dinner. It was so good. Jenn left shortly after dinner for a show in the city with friends. Heather, Pete and I enjoyed hanging out and watching the end of the Eagle's football game. It was great getting a bit more time with some of our favorite people! Unfortunately, Eagles lost, but thankfully, they are still in the running.
Monday, 12/29/25 ~
As we were prepping to pack the car, Pete noticed both Greg and Jenn‘s cars were still here. Jenn was supposed to be teaching the 5:30 class and Greg was supposed to head to work around 5:15 this morning. However, when he heard us loading the car, Greg texted us to say that Jenn had a really bad stomach bug and was up all night. Texted back our thanks, feel better, & love you and we were on our way by 6 AM.
The clouds, wind gusts up to 25, and the temperature of 29 definitely made it cold! Hopefully, we’re heading into warmer weather.
We were lucky the rains went around us by the time we got to Kent Island. We were able to unpack the car, put the outboard engine in and repack the car. Tilly isn’t too happy. She doesn’t have a lot of space, but more importantly, it’s much harder now for her to put her head on our shoulders and pat our shoulders for attention.
Traffic was amazing. We only hit some stop-and -goes a few miles south of DC. I would guess our total slowdown time was about a half hour for the whole trip! We only had one brief, heavy downpour and a spattering of sprinkling by the time we hit the North Carolina border. After that, it was smooth sailing and the skies were trying to clear. The clouds that were still present at sunset made for fiery, dramatic and beautiful sunset.
Once back at the house, we started to pack up and condensed process. We decided we leave tomorrow. There is a front coming through with rain and wind, but it shouldn’t impact our travels too much.
Greg made a delicious sausage and pepper couscous dinner. It was so good. Jenn left shortly after dinner for a show in the city with friends. Heather, Pete and I enjoyed hanging out and watching the end of the Eagle's football game. It was great getting a bit more time with some of our favorite people! Unfortunately, Eagles lost, but thankfully, they are still in the running.
Monday, 12/29/25 ~
As we were prepping to pack the car, Pete noticed both Greg and Jenn‘s cars were still here. Jenn was supposed to be teaching the 5:30 class and Greg was supposed to head to work around 5:15 this morning. However, when he heard us loading the car, Greg texted us to say that Jenn had a really bad stomach bug and was up all night. Texted back our thanks, feel better, & love you and we were on our way by 6 AM.
The clouds, wind gusts up to 25, and the temperature of 29 definitely made it cold! Hopefully, we’re heading into warmer weather.
We were lucky the rains went around us by the time we got to Kent Island. We were able to unpack the car, put the outboard engine in and repack the car. Tilly isn’t too happy. She doesn’t have a lot of space, but more importantly, it’s much harder now for her to put her head on our shoulders and pat our shoulders for attention.
Traffic was amazing. We only hit some stop-and -goes a few miles south of DC. I would guess our total slowdown time was about a half hour for the whole trip! We only had one brief, heavy downpour and a spattering of sprinkling by the time we hit the North Carolina border. After that, it was smooth sailing and the skies were trying to clear. The clouds that were still present at sunset made for fiery, dramatic and beautiful sunset.
We opted to grab dinner in North Myrtle Beach prior to unloading the car. As usual, our timing isn’t the greatest. The water level was very low and trudging down the ramp with two carts was a bit treacherous.
Once things were loaded on the boat, we opted to only unpact the import stuff. The rest can wait till tomorrow. We left at 6 AM. Arrived back here, after our dinner stop, close to seven. I think I’m much prefer 12-hour day than a 15-hour day, but I miss the warmth of our friends on I-dock as well as the warmer temperatures in Florida. Hopefully, we’ll be there soon.
Tuesday, 12/30/25 ~
Pete opted to do the laundry, which left me free to run a whole bunch of errands. I left around 10:30 and went and had the car washed, and then I cleaned windows and vacuumed. Then it was on to UPS to drop off an Amazon return. Next, it was off to Office Depot to pick up boxes so that I can mail the ornaments to the families we never saw over the holidays due to illness and ice. Then it was Walmart for a part of our provision list and finally onto Publix for our cold cuts and a couple of items I couldn’t get at Walmart. As I returned to the car, I realized I forgot one item. So back into Publix I went.
One back at the marina, Pete help me get the groceries back to the boat. For once the ramp was not so drastic. Once things were put away, I realized I forgot Pete's potato salad!
I was able to package up all the ornaments securely, so Pete, Tillie and I took a ride to the post office, where the 5 boxes were mailed. On the way back, we stopped once again at Publix. Now, I’m ready to begin cruising again!
Once back of the boat, I had to still put away the clothes and my unpack my stuff, treat that the fruits and vegetables, make dinner. OK, now I’m really ready, really!
Wednesday, 12/31/25 ~ New Year’s Eve ~
Total Miles: 485.4 Total Hours: 72. 7
The alarm went off at 5:30 am. Tilly was walked, engine started and boat prepped for departure. IT WAS COLD! WeatherBug reported temp at 29 and thankfully, NO wind. Such cold temperatures made freeing the power cord a bit difficult. It was too stiff to roll it up once on board. We were ready by 6:15 as planned, but did wait until 6:30 for first flight. As we approached the first bridge in Myrtle Beach there was a cruiser heading north. They are probably doing an ocean jump down to Charleston. That’s easy to do in a 60-foot Marlow. Not only is the boat have a generator running for heat, but the sky lounge is also enclosed so navigation is warm and comfortable during their travels.
We, on the other hand, had a hard time getting the enclosure completely closed because plastic was so cold. I didn’t want to crack it. There is no heat while we run, so we’re praying for the sunrise, and the warming in our enclosure.
Pete arranged dockage and Isle of Palms for Thursday night. He was shocked. It’s now up to five dollars a foot- - YIKES! He found Dockwa now offers discounts at various marinas (including Isle of Palms!) and fuel discounts for a yearly preferred membership.
Once things were loaded on the boat, we opted to only unpact the import stuff. The rest can wait till tomorrow. We left at 6 AM. Arrived back here, after our dinner stop, close to seven. I think I’m much prefer 12-hour day than a 15-hour day, but I miss the warmth of our friends on I-dock as well as the warmer temperatures in Florida. Hopefully, we’ll be there soon.
Tuesday, 12/30/25 ~
Pete opted to do the laundry, which left me free to run a whole bunch of errands. I left around 10:30 and went and had the car washed, and then I cleaned windows and vacuumed. Then it was on to UPS to drop off an Amazon return. Next, it was off to Office Depot to pick up boxes so that I can mail the ornaments to the families we never saw over the holidays due to illness and ice. Then it was Walmart for a part of our provision list and finally onto Publix for our cold cuts and a couple of items I couldn’t get at Walmart. As I returned to the car, I realized I forgot one item. So back into Publix I went.
One back at the marina, Pete help me get the groceries back to the boat. For once the ramp was not so drastic. Once things were put away, I realized I forgot Pete's potato salad!
I was able to package up all the ornaments securely, so Pete, Tillie and I took a ride to the post office, where the 5 boxes were mailed. On the way back, we stopped once again at Publix. Now, I’m ready to begin cruising again!
Once back of the boat, I had to still put away the clothes and my unpack my stuff, treat that the fruits and vegetables, make dinner. OK, now I’m really ready, really!
Wednesday, 12/31/25 ~ New Year’s Eve ~
Myrtle Beach Yacht Club to Harborwalk Marina, Georgetown, SC
Miles: 68.0 Hours: 8.25 S/M: 402.9Total Miles: 485.4 Total Hours: 72. 7
The alarm went off at 5:30 am. Tilly was walked, engine started and boat prepped for departure. IT WAS COLD! WeatherBug reported temp at 29 and thankfully, NO wind. Such cold temperatures made freeing the power cord a bit difficult. It was too stiff to roll it up once on board. We were ready by 6:15 as planned, but did wait until 6:30 for first flight. As we approached the first bridge in Myrtle Beach there was a cruiser heading north. They are probably doing an ocean jump down to Charleston. That’s easy to do in a 60-foot Marlow. Not only is the boat have a generator running for heat, but the sky lounge is also enclosed so navigation is warm and comfortable during their travels.
We, on the other hand, had a hard time getting the enclosure completely closed because plastic was so cold. I didn’t want to crack it. There is no heat while we run, so we’re praying for the sunrise, and the warming in our enclosure.
 |
| Sunrise on the last day of the year and the first day of our resumed cruise! |
It felt wonderful, but cold, to be on our way after being docked in North Myrtle Beach for the past 53 days! The boat is running fine and we’re underway!! Our destination for tonight is Georgetown Harborwalk. Thankfully they had space. Currently, a lot of cruisers have their boat kept here while they headed out for the holidays.
The ride down the Waccamaw River looks very different in winter, all grey and little green!
Pete arranged dockage and Isle of Palms for Thursday night. He was shocked. It’s now up to five dollars a foot- - YIKES! He found Dockwa now offers discounts at various marinas (including Isle of Palms!) and fuel discounts for a yearly preferred membership.
We had the current against us doing 6.5 mph, until we left Osprey Marina after filling up with fuel. It is lovely cruising at an average speed of 8.7 mph, but extremely nice holding at 9 mph for periods of time. I have to admit, traveling during warmer temperatures of spring and fall also offers prettier views rather than grey on grey on grey. The denuded trees along the Waccamaw River offers glimpses into the interior, where there are homes that we never knew were there. We also spotted more of the ancient “grandmother” trees that constantly amaze us.
We arrived at Harborwalk Marina in Georgetown at 3:50. We had 2 hands catching lines on the face dock; one dock hand and the other gentleman was the owner of the 60-foot Seleen. We pulled in nose to nose with the Seleen while the 35-ft SeaRay on our aft. Pete made it look effortless, much to the surprise of the owner of the Seleen.
Dinner was one of our favorites, Spanish rice, chicken, sausage and beans! So glad I have 2 more portions in the freezer!
It is New Year’s Eve. Though there were no town sponsored fireworks, there were lots of personal fireworks going off. They were intermittent beginning around 8:30 but synchronous at Midnight. It wasn’t enough to get us out to see if we could seen any of them.
Dinner was one of our favorites, Spanish rice, chicken, sausage and beans! So glad I have 2 more portions in the freezer!
It is New Year’s Eve. Though there were no town sponsored fireworks, there were lots of personal fireworks going off. They were intermittent beginning around 8:30 but synchronous at Midnight. It wasn’t enough to get us out to see if we could seen any of them.
We wish all a 2026 full of love, family, friends, good health and NO MAJOR HICCUPS! (I think we have had enough this past year to cover everyone else’s!!!) Happy New Year!
~ ~ ~ /) ~ ~ K & P
~ ~ ~ /) ~ ~ K & P
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