Had a lovely meal with the children at home chatting about our forth coming trip. Lots has happened since we left the boats in China.
We got back in March then went skiing with the Connor Megan Sam Dana Jared Julia Steve their kids and Cheryl and Simon. Lovely time.
Then a few weeks later we went to turkey with Lawrence Tania Sam and Dean - relaxing chilled pool holiday although we did get quiet a bit of rain.
Then in June we flew to Italy and sailed a boat to France
We have spent more time away this year than home !!
Whilst we have been off the qingdao boat we have been busy watching race viewer but looking forward now to getting back on the boat.
Can't believe since we left it in March they haves sailed across the Pacific to Seattle then down to the Panama Canal and up to New York where we will join them.
Sadly we lost our lovely friend Sarah who was on ichoral coal . She was swept overboard by a wave and it took them along time to to get her back on board due to the sea conditions. Can't believe she died we spent the last night with her before they left qingdao. She was buried at sea. Poor poor Sarah.
They have made some changes to the boats making them all have put lacing around the guard wires and make everyone clip on if the wind is over 15 knots. You never expect to lose anyone in the race and knowing Sarah so well it's just so sad.
Most of our bags are packed and ready to go.