2026

Our departure for the boat was later this year as we planned to attend the wedding of Amanda, daughter of Maria Barrios, our long-time housekeeper.  It was a memorable occasion, and we were delighted to be in attendance.  Amanda had just completed her PhD studies in aeronautical engineering at Cal Tech.  Her brother, David, earned his MD degree in the same week.  We are so proud of this exceptional family.

Stephanie and Sharon Arnold, a great friend, flew with us to Providence.  After a long day, we took Uber to the boat and found it clean and ready.  We quickly made reservations at Tavern by the Sea, a favorite local restaurant.  Could not wait for lobster rolls!

On Sunday, the girls accompanied David to the grocery store.  They spent several hours and purchased more than we can consume in several weeks.  They had to find extra storage space.  We were happy to meet John and Betsie, friends from last year.  They are now docked next to us.   Jill Cohen, a special friend. joined us for lunch at the renowned Matunuck Oyster Bar.

On Tuesday the girls chose to remain on the boat and complete cleaning and organizing the galley and the bar on the aft deck.  They were amazing and the results were positive.  

On Wednesday morning, I had a severe problem with breathing issues and left by ambulance at 4:00 AM for the hospital.  For two days, I was subjected to a battery of tests and was given excellent care by the medical staff.  Thrilled to be released with recommendations for future care, I happily returned to the boat.  Unfortunately, I missed Sharon’s departure for her home in Lincoln, Nebraska. Stephanie insisted on staying several more days to ensure I was following orders for my care.

Stephanie and I made a trip to the local needlepoint shop to replenish our threads supply.  On the return  to the boat, we took an alternate route and stopped by the Hyundai dealership to look at an automobile David had found on the internet.  Our beloved VW SUV suffered considerable paint problems and other issues.  We had agreed we needed a newer car.  The 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe model David had researched online was perfect for our needs.  Stephanie and I completed the paperwork, signed the check and left our old car on the lot.  Looking new, inside and out, our car was impressive.

We had a lovely farewell dinner for Stephanie at Beech, a favorite restaurant in Jamestown.  We enjoyed driving our pretty new car on the trip.  David reluctantly took Stephanie to the airport on Monday.  She was immediately missed.

Now we are finishing some projects on the boat. Carpet cleaners came and did a great job on the salon.  We are fortunate to have good help available.