We saw some strange weather patterns this year that limited both our winter and summer activities but we again rang in the new year on a frozen lake in Algonquin Park and managed some great skiing and sailing.
In June, with cooperating weather, we did a bike & barge trip, cycling from Amsterdam to Bruges and then on to Brussels by train. We lucked out in Brussels as we had dinner with ringside seats for the annual Ommegang pageant which reflects an important moment of Belgium’s history, the 1549 procession of Emperor Charles V. – Click on the following URL to see a trailer of the grand performance… https://www.youtube.com
While we were away Pat’s daughter, Karen and her children, Darius and Sophia, where among those that visited and entertained Oma Coby with songs and stories.
Upon our return we found that, although happy to see us, Oma tired easily. Each day her response was getting weaker until there was no more grip in her hand but she was comfortable and would still smile. In her 98th year, she peacefully drifted to sleep for the last time.
In August we headed to Los Angeles to be working crew on a tall ship during a race to San Diego. A great experience that got us back up to speed. You might want to follow this URL… http://sailing-a-156-foot-schooner
We had a pleasant sail with friends to Niagara-on-the-Lake and took in a show at the Shaw and then came home to celebrate my hiking friend Willard’s 95th birthday.
The weather continued to be a challenge while we looked for windows in which to haul and winterize our boats.
And now it’s the Christmas season, a time to rejoice and be grateful for the friends we have and the activities that we can still do.
Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year (with better weather?)
Pat & Hank
Sailing With Devious, 2014 