Katie turns one

Spring has finally arrived in Newport and Katie had sunshine for her first birthday. Perfect weather for walking round the dock to try out her first pair of shoes. She is already very attached to these and reluctant to have them taken off!



She had three little friends round for lunch on deck and a messy cake-eating session. She got lots of new clothes, books and toys but her favorite gift was a pink helium balloon which has given hours of fun.

Otherwise, preparations are going full-swing for our trip back. The shrink-wrap has been cut back to summer proportions to allow Dave access to the topsides for painting. He has finished re-pitching the decks, replaced most of the standing rigging and welded a new stem fitting and anchor platform.

We are aiming to leave for the Azores around the 15th May and are still on the lookout for one more person to join us. Chance of a lifetime!