Well, we haven't made it across the Atlantic yet. Tropical Storm Franklin
stopped us in our tracks, closely followed by Gertie and then Henry. If
they hadn't kissed us goodbye, then probably hurricane Irene would be doing
that right now. So far they've had 9 major storms - alot more than usual -
the average for this time of year is two storms. So, we're still in the US.
We've missed our weather window now, so we've put other plans into place.
As you say mum, there's always a reason for everything. I've been
consistently and pleasantly surprised when plans go to pot.

At the moment, we're in Newport, Rhode Island - once home to America's Cup.
After we left New York (loved NY - you could spend a month there easily),
Hells Gate spat us out into Long Island Sound - vast and quite beautiful.
We called it America's Sydney Harbour - but it's much bigger. BTW, we
understand why they call it Hells Gate - the water swirls and looks like
it's boiling in places - like a big cauldron. The boat swung around quite
violently - like it was demon possessed - we clocked 12 knots before it
spat us out - quite exciting!!

We'll head north to Maine and may have to cross the border into Canada to
renew our Visas when they run out in early September. October we plan to be
in Annapolis for the big boat show and then we'll slowly make our way down
to the Caribbean after Hurricane season. Probably spend Christmas there.

A few funny things have happened (again). We well and truly went aground
the other day in Stonington - a very cute little town in Connecticut. We
met another Aussie who helped us get free (eventually - after having to
wait for high tide). I'll send you pictures when I can, but we saw the
world from a whole new angle. So, I went ashore (wasn't much one could do
except window shop) while Marno took advantage of the situation to fix some
through hull fittings. After about 7 hours we finally worked ourselves
free. We were the talking point of the town. Anyway, we've been there done
that, and Dad, it's not as scary anymore now. :))

We've made some new friends. Met a couple of cruising poms and a couple
from San Diego who had the good oil about the Caribbean and Panama.
Shelley up the mast

Mending a sail
Installing the Windvane
Sailing into New York Harbour
Empire State Building
I've seen this lady somewhere before..
Aground in Stonington
Sunset in Newport Rhode Island
Home of the America's Cup

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Last modified: 01/02/09