karmavoyager

Our last shopping day in Milford!

2025-09-11T23:50:00.006+02:00

Today, Thursday 11 September may well be a poignant day forAmerica, but also for our BBF and us Bears as it is the last full day we have here in Milford. Sandy kindly took Alan on a major shopping spree before we head home tomorrow. The day was a great one, sunny and warm so the two friends drove with the top down.

Some of the shops are now getting ready for Halloween.

So needless to say we stopped in a couple. As one of the wheels had broken on Alan’s carry-on trolley he needed a new one and this was a main point of effort. Some of the prices were horrendous and even with the favourable exchange rate, more than he wanted to pay. Consequently a number of different shops had to be visited.

Sandy is very patient with our BBF when they go shopping for he likes to look at everything even if he is not buying! They went first to the Boston Post Road area and even found a suitably suitcase plus a number of presents for family and friends back home. These Alan put in the suitcase. He also found some decorative items for the up and coming Phileas Fogg Club Thanksgiving Party later this year.

It now being Lunchtime they went to Lasse’s for a “hot roast beef sandwich” for lunch. After lunch they drove to the Trumble Mall the other side of Bridgeport. Here Sandy found a large tea pot she was looking for. The humans were now shopped out and drove back to Milford where they stopped to grab a coffee and doughnut at Dunkin’ Doughnuts. Then it was home to examine the purchases and have a G+T before going out for the last evening meal.

Tomorrow we fly home. We have had fun, been sailing with Brec and Pugsy, visited with family and friends and seen yet a bit more of the US of A and found a new friend ourselves in Bailey Bear who will now live with us. Our special thanks go to Brec and Sandy for showing us a good time yet again, and we look forward to reciprocating when they come over to visit us for our BBF’s 80th next year.

The last sail home.

2025-09-11T05:41:00.004+02:00

Our BBF was awake before the rest of us on the boat. He put the kettle on to make tea for the Skipper and got dressed. The gas in the cooker was coming to an end, but he managed to make the tea and to warm up the coffee he had brought back from Starbucks last night.

The men used the Heads ashore then cast off and Alan backed out of the slip and made for the open sea. The day was cold and overcast, but thankfully it did not rain. Our BBF was wrapped up well and once out of the channel and into the open sea they hoisted the Genoa which gave us an extra knot together with the engine. At one stage they throttled back to see if they could sail. Well we could, but if we did we would add at least two more hours on the voyage. So we motor sailed on.

Brec made breakfast and Alan was pleased that he had coffee which he had poured into a thermos cup which kept it warm for most of the voyage. Around 13:00 hrs we entered the Bridgetown harbour channel.

Alan was allowed to bring the boat back onto the slip and he remarked to Brec that though his bones no longer allowed him to leap about the boat or tall buildings as he used to, he was pleased to learn that he had not lost any of his sailing skills.

Once they had made up, Brec went to get a couple of trolleys to carry their kit to the truck. While he did this Alan made a light snack lunch. The men now sat and reviewed the sailing week. They now packed up their personal things. Alan emptied the cool box and some of the dry victuals to take home.

Brec now offered to take Alan to Milford where he could begin the laundry and prepare for the evening meal. Brec preferred to potter about the boat on his own anyway. Back in the Milford home we now had a big surprise! We found a little Bear called Bailey in our bed!

He came with a note which said,

“ Dear Mr Alan, I heard from some of my friends that you, as an human, were going on an adventure. Well, I have never been on one, having been born and raised in Maine and only played in the woods! Since a real adventure has always been on my bucket List I was hoping you’d take me along. I’ll be good boy! Thanks, Bailey Bear

We immediately took to Bailey and assure him that if he came with us he would be assured of many adventures.

Alan began the laundry and then had a shower. He did three washing machine loads in all.

Sandy arrived home and now added to the surprises by insisting on giving Alan an early Birthday present!

The presents were very thoughtfully selected. A pair of soft warm socks with a lobster motif, a small zipper bag with Santiago Compostella motif into which Alan immediately placed his Rosary for safe keeping and a small scallop shell with cocktail sticks also with shells!

Brec arrived home and after his shower the three humans ate BLTs Alan had prepared and drank Prosecco, toasting their friendship and a great little sailing adventure.

We sail on to Guilford CT!

2025-09-10T23:46:00.002+02:00

We were up early to sail with the favourable tide. Brec was on the helm having dropped the mooring motoring away towards the channel and the open sea. Alan had stayed below to make tea. As Alan came on deck he remarked to the skipper that there was a squealing coming from the engine. He took over the helm so Brec could come below and see for himself.

When he looked in the engine compartment he saw smoke and immediately ordered Alan to reduce throttle and to turn around and get out of the channel towards a moored boat. After a little confusion Brec dropped the anchor within the mooring area and we turned off the engine. The skipper thought the smoke came from the slipping fan belt between the alternator and the fly wheel.

The skipper now got out his tools to tighten the fan belt while Alan maintained an anchor watch. This whole process only took about 15 minutes or so. Once the engine was running again we set off again without any more problems!

The morning was cold but Brighton’s it promised to be a lovely day. Once out of the channel all plain sail was set, but as the wind was light we kept the engine running and motor sailed the whole of the way!

We had a fair tide with us and so made good time. Brec served up breakfast. Alan maintained the watch and kept a lookout for the navigation marks we needed along the way. As the sun rose in the sky it slowly got warmer and our BBF threw off various layers of clothing.

Once they had sighted the buoy to make the turn for the sluice harbour Alan hand steered. This harbour is small and has a fishing dock and open air restaurant to one side and a very small marina mainly for small power boats on floating pontoons on the other. We didn’t initially find a slip where we could tie up, so we made up to a fishing vessel on the other side. However, when they heard we wanted to stay the night and not just stop for lunch we had to leave.

We now made up on the wall at the back of the marina and the skipper went ashore to find the harbour master. When he returned he said the harbour master had agreed we could stay the night on the one empty slip we saw. We now moved there and once we had the harbour master came and gave us a key to the gate and the toilets ashore. There are no shower facilities here!

Alan now made a salad with chicken for lunch while Brec tidied up the deck and secured the boat. Alan washed the dishes while Brec put the sail covers on. The skipper then said we could all take a nap which we did.

After the nap Alan had a wash and brush up. Brec had used the toilet ashore to wash his hair. He had also arranged for a school friend to have coffee with us. The men once respectable walked into the centre of town. A twenty minute walk or so.

Brec had lived here as a boy and had delivered newspapers, as our BBF had also done. He pointed out various houses where years ago the occupants had given him tips and or cookies on his paper round.

There was one stone house built in 1640 by Henry Whitfield. Sadly when they got into the centre of town the coffee bars were all closed it now being 17:00 hrs. The town had a large green in the centre which looked more like a park now with its mature trees rather than a cricket green!

On the green was a Civil War memorial and one to those who had fallen in the Vietnam War from the town. Alan looked into a couple of the shops, but bought nothing. At the end of the green opposite the church they met Sally who now took them to Madison the next town where there was a Starbucks for coffee!

The humans now sat chatting about this and that and enjoying their coffee. Brec had bought Madelines and Alan a chocolate Brownie. Sally remarked that she made the world’s best Brownies. Alan remarked that then he wanted her recipe!

Sally kindly drove the men back to the marina where Alan made pasta and Sandy’s Basil pesto for the evening meal which they washed down with a beer. Not long after Brec had washed up and cleared away we were all asleep!

A day off in Noank and Mystic!

2025-09-10T23:44:00.006+02:00

Brec had decided that today we would take Christine out for a day sail to Fisher’s Island. However, Christine had said in the night she did not want to sail all day she just wanted to tootle around! Brec complained that he and Otter did not tootle! Our BBF suggested that he take us up the river to Mystic and he would go shopping with her!

In the end we did neither. Brec had invited his cousin Mark to come over and sail with us. Mark arrived at around 11:00 hrs on his lovely little boat and they rafted up. He had brought a couple of big sub sandwiches for lunch. The three men sat amiably in the cockpit and the sun came out and warmed us all and so the day turned out really well compared to yesterday!

Around 15:00 hrs Christine came and Brec went in the dinghy to collect her. She brought some bagels with flavoured butter for tea. So Brec made some and now all four humans sat amiably and chatted the day away.

When Mark left it was decided to go ashore and get ice cream. Christine now drove the men into Mystic. Just by the lifting road bridge is a great ice cream parlour, but before they went in, they went to the gallery on the other side of the road where Brec had one of his large paintings displayed in the window.

Two men were sitting on the bench opposite the window of the gallery and Brec engaged them in conversation! What did they think of the two paintings. The men in fact were not sitting there to admire the paintings, but were waiting for their wives who were shopping! The wives now came to claim their husbands.

In the ice cream parlour they chose their two scoops and Alan had a double espresso while Brec had a cappuccino. The bridge lifted and Alan went outside to took pictures. When it was all done and two boats passed through Alan went for a shopping walk around the Main Street.

In one shop he found a great English conversation game to play with the Phileas Fogg Club and bought it for their next Christmas party! He the met Brec and Christine who had come looking for him.

As Brec and Alan were talking Christine took a phone call and learned that her cousin Johnathan had committed suicide!! The men now gave her a hug each and offered their condolences. It was decided to go for a stiff drink before going home.

Christine walked them to the Shipwright’s Daughter Inn where they sat at the bar! They asked Pedro the barman to suggest a bitter strong drink! He suggested an Italian digestive called Braulio, which Brec and Christine took while Alan chose a Glenlivet Whiskey! They toasted the departed and Christine shared stories and photos of her cousin Johnathan.

Christine recommended they try the crispy fried oysters in this bar, which they did as neither Brec nor our BBF had ever had them before. They were so good they ordered another round of them. Later Christine ordered Bucatini which they also shared. Eventually it was time to go. Christine assured the men she would be OK as she would go to her daughter‘s when she had dropped the men off.

On the way back to the boat they went to a beach to look at the full moon reflecting on the calm water. Then it was time to say farewell till we come again.

Brec and Alan got in the dinghy which was wet with dew, so the men got a wet bottom! In the dark they motored slowly in the direction of where they thought Otter was. Back on board Alan made the skipper a tea and they had a snack of cheese and biscuits!

Each of the humans were then glued to their iPhones! Brec found the site that broadcast the live concert that his brother Geoff was giving in Washington! Alan found it enjoyable to listen to. The concert ended just before midnight when we all went to bed.

Two deaf wet old salts on a boat!

2025-09-10T23:42:00.005+02:00

We were up before the sun and Brec pulled up the anchor and we were off in the dawn. Alan took over the helm and we motored out of the harbour. A huge cruise ship, the Enchanted Princes slowly passed us to drop anchor in the anchorage outside the harbour.

The day was cold and it rained off and on all day as we motor sailed with all sail up to Noank a town near Mystic. The oil skin trousers Brec first gave our BBF had a zip opening in the crutch which was broken and after awhile Alan complained about having wet trousers! Brec had never put his oil skin trousers on, so he had totally wet shorts and legs and showed little sympathy for Alan’s complaint. Brec gave him another pair, and so we sailed on. So now we have two deaf wet old salts on this boat!

The wind in the sails gave us at least a knot more speed which helped us get to Watch Passage before the tide turned. Taylor Swift has a huge house there, but the rain and cloud prevented Alan from taking pictures, we waved anyway!

We made the turn into the Mystic River and picked up a mooring lent to us by a friend of friend of Brec’s, at the Ram Island Yacht Club! Once the engine was off the men threw their wet clothes off. Alan found two different tins of chicken soup which he threw together, not listening to Brec who would have mixed chicken soup with Beef Broth! The hot soup and hot tea revived the two men.

After the late lunch Brec did some boat chores while our BBF had a nap! As the sun set the wind died. On a flat calm sea we let go of the mooring and motored to the Yacht Club dock where Alan put the boat alongside and Brec took the lines ashore to tie up.

They went ashore and in the club house people were celebrating a series of Herrishoff Yacht races. The men introduced themselves and said their boat would only stay on the jetty for the time it takes to eat dinner at the Heringes restaurant.

Brec had kindly arranged a dinner party with his daughter Laura and Christine a friend of his whom we have met three times before on our sailing trips.

On the walk there Christine, drove by and stopped! Her car was full of stuff so she couldn’t give us a lift and so she drove on. Laura, Brec’s daughter came and drove us to the restaurant!

The restaurant looked like just a shack on the jetty, but inside it was an interesting place with a homely charm. Being so close to the sea(one couldn’t get any closer) the menu was full of sea food.

The party started with Steamers. These soft shell clams are a particular delicacy and we had them last in Province Town two years ago.

The men ordered the catch of the day which happened to be Sword Fish, while Laura had a bowl of Lobster Bisque and then a Lobster Roll with fries. Christine also had a lobster bisque, some fries and a salad of greens! Christine also provided the wine as the restaurant did not have a license so you bring your own!

Christine’s daughter had helped serve at a society wedding and was gifted a Magnum bottle of Californian Chardonnay which Christine now produced for us to drink! Our BBF opened and served it and all found it delicious and the right wine for the meal. The two men drank most of the Magnum as the women were driving!

They had a dessert afterwards which they shared. Alan chose a peanut butter and chocolate mousse, while Christine chose a key lime pie, which all found too sweet, but the mouse was exceptional. Alan also managed to get a coffee as well.

After the meal Laura drove the men back to the jetty. It was pitch dark now and finding the mooring in the dark would be fun. There was no wind and so Alan hopped aboard and started the engine while Brec handled the lines pushed off and also stepped aboard. We motored slowly into the night and the general direction of where we thought the mooring should be. We found it too, but in the dark we’re not certain it was the right one, so motored past it. We were looking for a small white lobster pot buoy with certain markings on it. In fact it was the buoy and when we now approached it from the other direction saw the markings we were looking for.

Back on board Brec made himself a decaf tea while Alan drank water. After a review of the very wet day we all went to bed early exhausted but happy!

A day out in Newport.

2025-09-10T23:40:00.005+02:00

Brec was up early around 07:00 hrs, but let Alan sleep on. He woke at 08:00 hrs made tea and then the showered on deck (Brec) or strip washed with a flannel below deck (Alan). Alan then made bacon and eggs with toast for breakfast.

After the leisurely breakfast there were boat jobs to do, they are never ending! By the time these were done it was midday and the warm sun was out. The question now was dinghy ashore with the high wind the chance of getting wet when going up wind or get a water taxi! The humans thought it would be quicker and safer to get the water taxi! In the end it was not as the taxi guys forgot us and we had to wait an hour!

The town was full with tourists and one could see that the town was getting ready for the in-water Boat Show next week. We walked first to the Seaman’s Mission where Brec has some family history! The humans bought a coffee each and shared a French toast muffin, which Alan thought he could bake when he got home as they were very yummy!

Brec now ordered an Uber taxi to take them to the Breakers Mansion. This went array just like the water taxi! The first one was stolen from us! Eventually we stopped one after about 30 minutes! This one was not our Uber, but he was persuaded to take us anyway!

The Breakers Mansion is the grandest of all Newport’s summer “cottages” and was designed by the American architect Richard Morris Hunt for Cornelius II and Alice Vanderbilt. It was modelled on an Italian Renaissance palace with an open air courtyard. The 70 room palace was completed in two years from spring 1893-summer 1895.

We slowly walked around the sumptuous house taking lots of pictures. The opulence was astounding and we hope the gallery of pictures shows this.

The house has a grand view of the sea as it stands on a cliff top overlooking the sea. Alan wished he had a kitchen as large as the one in the house and was surprised at the number of dumbwaiters he found!

Much of the “below stairs” was given over to a gift shop, where our BBF restrained himself and only bought a bottle of water. Brec bought himself a new set of reading glasses, but complained later that they were tinted yellow which he had not noticed in the shop when he tried them on! Not good for an artist studying colours!

We all walked round the mansion and took more photos of ourselves which pleased us bears as we were included in the photos! Back at the entrance we ordered another Uber to take us back into town.

Back in town the men parted ways, Brec to go to a gallery and Alan to go shopping! Sadly he did not find much to buy as they never had his size! He bumped into Brec and Brec mentioned a tourist shop which they went in! Here they found a few little gift items to take back.

We walked back to Bowen’s Wharf where the humans bought themselves a coffee each and shared an almond cake! They looked towards the south and saw a band of dark rain clouds moving slowly towards us! As they had left hatches open we now went quickly to the water taxi landing to wait for the next available one!

There was none there when we arrived and so we sat to wait praying one came before the rain did! Also parked on this jetty was a pleasure boat for taking tourists around the harbour! The Captain of this vessel overheard the men talking and said he could take them, but he might crunch their boat! Apparently he was a happy teddy as he had just purchased a boat for himself and clearly wanted to share his good fortune!

He had bought himself a 38ft motorised catamaran. He had found it in Texas and had flown down to see it and made an offer, but the owner had refused it! Now a week or so later as he had not sold the boat accepted the Captain’s offer! The happiest times of owning a boat is the day you buy it and the day you sell it!!

A water taxi stopped at the jetty and we all jumped in and we were off and happy that we would now beat the rain. It turned out that the taxi we leapt in only did this side of the channel and we were the other side! Fortunately he had one passenger who wanted to get off on a super yacht on the edge this side and we were on the opposite side! He agreed to take us and consequently earned himself a bigger tip!

Alan began to cook the evening meal more or less as soon as we arrived. He still had much of the coffee he had bought earlier and now saved it to warm up for after dinner! The men enjoyed their meal and conversation after which Brec clear away we wrote the Blog and Alan read! As we write it is raining lightly and according to the weather forecast will continue all day tomorrow! So tomorrow promises to be a wet sail in light winds, but we only have approximately 35 nm to go so will cope!

We sail on to Newport Rhode Island

2025-09-10T23:35:00.005+02:00

We all woke around 07:00 hrs and so got up made tea and had breakfast! Brec worked on the engine and topped up with oil. When all was set they dropped the mooring and motored towards the fuel dock. On the inside was a floating pier and we needed to moor up on the floating jetty.

We bears have to acknowledge that Brec trusts our BBF with his boat as he has allowed Alan to bring the boat alongside, motor into a slip etc. Alan told us afterwards that he did wonder if he could get it off this jetty as the wind was pushing the boat on. To make matters worse the twice weekly ferry had docked just behind us. There was now a bit little more than one boat length between us! Anyway we digress.

The humans filled up with water and fuel once they were on the jetty. Alan got rid of the rubbish and went into the islands only grocery store. Most residents he was told go shopping on the mainland via the ferry or with their own boats. Alan and Brec speculated whether the islanders left their main motorcar on the mainland and used a golf cart buggy on the island, as there was many of them but few real cars! Brec when he returned from the shop had discovered that they were giving away squash and avocados. He took two of each.

The ferry had now come in and moored behind us making it more difficult to get out as there was only a boat length in which to back up and turn to get out! This stress alone was enough, but half the island had come to see the ferry arrive, so if Alan messed up he would have many witnesses!

With Brec on the jetty managing the lines Alan slowly backed off the floating jetty until he could almost touch the stern of the ferry when he began to make the turn, letting the wind do most of the work! Then we were off!

We motored slowly out of the harbour while Brec put all the lines and fenders away! Outside the harbour we saw a large German flagged catamaran! Then once clear of all obstacles Brec pulled out the Genoa and we were sailing on a broad reach! The sky was overcast but the wind from the south was warm and we were sailing towards a blue sky.

With Alan on watch Brec was able to potter around the boat doing one job after another!

Once clear of the cloud the wind picked up and we went from a broad reach slowly to being hard on the wind as we got to the mark where we had to turn into Newport. Now we were on a run and just after the next mark gybed towards the harbour entrance!

It was a fine afternoon and there were many fine yachts sailing about! Newport is also where the New York Yacht Club have a fine mansion on a hill overlooking the many moorings! Brec took the helm as he wanted to have a look around these mornings. We looked for the one CCA (Cruising Club of America) that was meant to be somewhere here, but never found it. He now motored us over to the anchorage and then handed Alan the helm to go forward and drop the anchor.

Alan now looked at Brec to see what looked like a bandage on his right eye, but was in fact a repair as they had broken and fallen apart. There is always something to repair on a boat!

Once the anchor had been set the skipper served up an anchor beer with some nibbles and the men sat and relaxed after a great day sailing.

A sunny sail to Cutty Hunk

2025-09-10T23:34:00.005+02:00

Thursday 4 September the humans were awake early made tea and set off in brilliant sunshine but no wind at all. In the early morning there was much dew on the deck. While sponging down the cockpit Alan said, “we need a bigger sponge for this or that chamois leather!” Brec understood, “we need a bigger sunscreen for the sunny weather!” Two deaf old codgers on a boat!

Once clear of the harbour Alan took over the helm and more or less stayed there the whole way. Brec loves to just potter on boats and so once a course was set, that’s what he did most of the day.He spliced, he cleaned, he serviced. A happier Bear you would be hard to find.

By around 10:00 hrs there was a light breeze and so Brec put up all plane sail and we motor sailed the rest of the way. The sails increased our speed by at leaset a knot! It was a beautiful day and at one point, once we could see Cutty Hunk Island Brec did ask our BBF if he wanted to turn the engine off, but he said no as then it would take forever to get there. Brec in his pottering pumped up the dinghy and then put it overboard to tow it.

By 13:00 hrs we had the island well in view. Alan made bacon sandwiches for lunch. As we got closer Brec took the sails down. We followed the buoys and soon found ourselves in the harbour which was almost empty.

Brec picked up the mooring and then there was silence. The humans tided the boat, put the sail covers on, the outboard engine on the dinghy then the went ashore. On the dock bear the harbour master’s office was a place where one could get any number of shell fish. Brec bought a dozen oysters (6 each) which they ate on the dock in the sunshine. The oysters were some of the best they had ever eaten!

A lot has changed since last we were here! The grocery store was now down by the fuel dock and closed for the day! The souvenir shop was closed and had a big sign which said summer hours 09:00-17:00 hrs!

Brec took Alan back to the boat in the dinghy and then went to the top of the hill to paint. Alan prepared the evening meal and had a snooze. When Brec came back he showed Alan his sketches and they sat and ate their meal talking as usual till it was time for bed.

A tourist day on Block Island

2025-09-10T23:33:00.002+02:00

The men had decided, since we bears and Alan had not seen more of the Island than the Old Harbour they would spend one more day here! We were all up early and the men showered on deck (Brec) or strip washed with a flannel below.

We had breakfast and the humans chatted amiably, you have to understand that Brec can talk the hind legs off a donkey and he uses 1000 words where our BBF uses 10! But between them they sit and chat and try and set the world to rights. There is also much laughter and leg pulling in their banter and camaraderie, which is why they get on so well..

After breakfast there was boat work to do. Alan made lunch after which we all went ashore. The two men hired bicycles and after testing them and adjusting the saddles we set off. Us bears were given seats in the basket on Alan’s bike and so we had a great view.

It had been decided that we would all go first to the North Light which sits on the end of the peninsula. Our BBF complained that his bike was a wreck compared to his own, but he persevered! The brakes squeeked as if you had stuck a pin in a pig!

It was a nice ride but with hilly parts which made the humans work. There were nice views along the way. As we were coasting down a hill Alan saw a sign to a Labyrinth and squealed to a stop. Brec misunderstood and sailed on bye.

Supposedly it was a Sacred Labyrinth and one was meant to walk it with the right thoughts t sooth your soul.We bears walked a bit of it, took photos and then cycled on. Now we shot past Brec who was sitting in the shade texting!

The end of the road was not far now. Here we found a mobile kiosk where Alan bought us all drinks. When Brec arrived we had a bit of a discussion as to whether we would walk to the Lighthouse! There was no road only a stony beach. Alan thought not as it was now four- o-clock and Alan judged it would use up at least an hour there and back. So after taking some photos we cycled into town and went to Ballards for a drink.

Outside Ballards there was an ambulance and the paramedics were assisting an elderly gentleman who had tripped and fallen on the jetty! Our two humans went inside to look for a suitable bar! In fact there were many. A huge one occupied the centre of a large hall and in addition to the seats at the bar there were tables all around it. In one corner was a cocktail bar! Outside there were three more beach bars! At one there was a a music stand which was occupied by two guitarists!

Brec ordered Alan an Aperol Spritz and he had a lemon and lime. They took a look at the dock from where Brec started and ended his circumnavigation and the returned to the Great Salt Pond. In the little shop there they bought ice and some cheese.

Back on the boat Alan cooked the evening meal and then they chatted amiably before bed!

A successful day working on the boat!

2025-09-10T23:31:00.003+02:00

We woke around 08:00 hrs to a sunny day with good wind to sail. After breakfast Brec made various phone calls to get advice from more knowledgeable people than us. Few if any were home so he left messages on their answering machines. Eventually John rang back and gave Brechen something to think about! Brec also looked at YouTube videos to get more ideas and inspiration.

Brec made a couple tests and then came to the conclusion that the problem lay in the wiring between the ignition key and the starter motor! Problem solved, now to work out the repair solution. Alan made fish cakes for lunch and then Brec began to fit new wiring. Sounds easy, but as we explained yesterday on a boat these things are more complex and require more time. It all went well and at approximately 16:30hrs Brec started the engine!

It was decided to go ashore and celebrate with a beer and a bite to eat. Brec tidied the boat back to where it was a fine sailboat again!

Ashore they sat outside and watched the world go bye until Alan got the sad news of a friend who had suddenly died! “You can literally be here today and gone tomorrow, so be grateful, be humble, be appreciative, be kind, be loving!”

Two deaf old men on a boat!

2025-09-10T23:09:00.012+02:00

On Thursday night because the two men had been listening to Al Pacino recount his life and how he come to act in the Godfather, Brec decided they should watch it after dinner. Our BBF, Alan could hardly remember any of the detail. He and Brec had memories of Godfather One Two and Three which they had mixed up in their minds as one film! They both enjoyed the film and then retired to bed.

In the morning (Friday 29th) it had been decided to set sail! However, there was much to do first. Brec needed to clean and tidy up, while we bears needed to catch up on the Blog to keep our readers informed and up to date.

When the work had been done the men had showers and packed. Alan had made a Menu list and rifled through Sandy’s freezer and fridge. The men loaded the truck and then drove to a supermarket to get the rest of the victuals for the voyage.

They unloaded the truck into Trollies at the yacht club, and threw it all on the boat. Alan went to get ice, Brec parked the truck and Alan set to, to put all the victuals away! In the meantime Brec threw off all the lines and cast off at approx 14:00hrs. Solo sailers can do this at the drop of a hat. Alan, once he had stowed everything away went on deck and took over the steering while Brec hoisted sail and then they were off and you could visibly see the stress fall of the males once the sails were set!

We found our usual place on Otter, with Brec’s Pugsy in the salon.

It was a fine day and before the sun set we got as far Milford where the skipper wanted to anchor off Silver Sands Beach! We anchored close to shore and after checking the charts our humans realised that at low tide we would be hard aground! So Brec hauled up the anchor and Alan motored round to a deeper spot. After two more failed attempts they gave up and motored over to Bay View Beach which is just about 100 meters from Brec and Sandy’s house! Alan did remark that they could go row ashore to get hot showers at home and watch Godfather II! They never did. They had a meal chatted a bit and went to bed tired but happy.

We bears as well as the humans slept well and deeply, but some sailors instinct had the humans up before dawn! They threw on some clothes and Brec began hauling the anchor up before Alan was dressed. When Alan got on deck he started the engine and motored slowly forward to assist. Once the anchor was up we motored out of the bay in what the Army calls “first light”.

Once clear of all obstacles Alan went below to make tea and put something warmer on as it was quite chilly. The dawn when it came was beautiful as was the rest of the day. There was not a cloud in the sky and with a light breeze and a fair tide we had a great sail to Block Island which we reached at around 18:00hrs having sailed without the engine for two hours at least and motor sailed the rest when the wind died and the tide turned! Brec did mention that it was the first time he had made it from Milford in one go. He has normally anchored for the night in West Harbour on Fisher’s Island! Alan made chilli and rice for dinner which they washed down with their Anchor beer! We all retired around 22:00 hrs tired but happy and with a great sense of achievement!

The next morning (Sunday 31st Aug) after breakfast Brec took a shower on the foredeck while Alan had a flannel wash inside. All scrubbed up the men took their rubbish with them in the water taxi which took them ashore to meet Sandy off the ferry. The sun was shining as they walked into town. It promised to be a fine day.

As they passed the National Hotel although it was not yet lunchtime the terrace looked full. Alan suggested they book a table for later, this they did and then walked on to a small Deli called Old Harbour View overlooking the ferry terminal where they were able to sit and watch the ferry arrivals and departures!

The sun was warming them as they sat, drank iced coffee and Brec had a soft ice waiting to see who would spot Sandy first as she came off the boat! As it was neither of them did! Sandy had walked right on bye and to the National Hotel which was the original RV ! She came up on the two deaf old men from behind and surprised them.

Reunited the three friends went to the National Hotel for lunch. It is a Brec Tradition since his circumnavigation to drink a Guiness on the terrace of the hotel. They ordered lunch and the beers and toasted to sailing and friendship! The plan for the afternoon was for Brec to hire a bike and go to Southeast Light to sketch and paint, while Sandy and our BBF went shopping.

Sandy and Alan were disappointed with the shopping as many if not most of the Stores they remembered were gone and many of the new had just tourists tat of T-Shirts and sweat-shirts. Gone were the boutique stores that offered refined products!

Alan bought a couple of things Sandy nothing so when they were shopped out they headed for the Mohegan Bar and restaurant where they sat at the bar and drank G+ Ts. Sandy informed Brec where they were so that he knew where to find them for dinner.

There is no available Internet for us here, so we started to write the Blog at the bar offline with no photos! We saved it after each paragraph to ensure we lost nothing and will upload it without photos when we can. Once that works we will add the photos one by one to the online version! So far this idea, which was Sandy’s is working well!

Brec surprised the two friends by arriving early and sneaking up from behind. When he poked Sandy from behind she gave such a loud squeak that woke up all at the bar. Two men kindly moved over to allow Brec in to sit with us. Brec showed us his artist’s notebook where he had a fine sketch and painting of the area around Northeast Light which one day he may turn into a full sized painting. He had clearly had the more productive afternoon than our two shoppers.

They went to eat and Sandy and Alan had fish and chips which were excellent. Brec had a pizza. After dinner they took a taxi back to the Salt Lake Harbour. It was a fair wait till the ferry came. The Salt Lake is full of boats which is why we are anchored so far out! It was cold now the sun had set and once back on the boat they hunkered down and read and told stories till it was time for bed.

The humans were all awake by 08:00 hrs. Alan, as he is sleeping in the saloon was quickly up to stow his bed and put the table back up. When the others were up he made tea and crêpes for breakfast. Brec then decided to start the engine to charge the batteries. There was no noise when he pushed the starter button except the ticking of the fuel pump! The starter motor is only a year old as last year when on their annual sailing holiday, the old starter motor broke and Brec and Sandy had a week in a marina until a new one could be sourced and fitted! At the end of all that time was up and they had to return home! Were the Gremlins back to haunt us again?

Brec now opened up the engine hatches and started to look for the fault. Alan was of no help as firstly there is not enough room for two to work on the engine and secondly because he was as clueless as Brec as to what the problem could be! When working on boats you have to realise that there is no such thing as a ten minute job! Ten minute jobs can take an hour or more and 30 minute jobs take all day! Then there is the fact that before you can do one thing you have to do four other things! To get at the starter motor Brec had to take off the air filter and the alternator for example! But before that he checked that the power was getting there from the batteries through the control panel starter button to the motor!

While all this was going on Sandy and Alan sat and read, they were clearly going nowhere today! Occasionally Alan was helpful in passing tools or whatever to the real worker on the boat! By afternoon Brec had determined that power was getting to all parts of the engine that needed it. But still had no idea why it wouldn’t work!

Alan made salad with shrimps for lunch which all enjoyed! He then cleaned away the dishes while Brec went back to work putting it all back together again.

Sandy was leaving on the 5 o-clock ferry so Alan went ashore with her while Brec continued the work! The water taxi was called to get them and ashore they took a land taxi into town! As they had some time before the ferry departed they went into the Mohegan Bar for a G+T.

When it was time to leave they walked to the ferry terminal where Sandy now could not find her ticket! She had a moment of panic as she knew that the ferry ticket was together with the car park ticket! How would she get her car out of the car park? Eventually the tickets were found in the pocket of the jacket she was wearing when she came yesterday and had been packed deep into her rucksack!

Alan and Sandy hugged goodbye and our BBF watched Sandy shuffle forward in the long queue till she disappeared! He then went and sat on a bench until the ferry left. He had time before Brec arrived so he looked in the shops and bought himself a polo shirt! He then went to the National Hotel and sat on the terrace until Brec arrived. They then had a light evening meal and chatted amiably while eating. After their meal they left the hotel and bought themselves a coffee, Brec a cappuccino and Alan a double espresso and sat on a bench in front of the hotel.

They walked back to the Great Salt Pond and the water taxi to the boat. There was a great sunset. Now that the Labour Day holiday is over many yachts have left and the place seems empty. The water taxi service will end next weekend on 7th September.

On the boat the men chatted a bit in the growing darkness and used as little light as possible to preserve the batteries. Eventually they went to bed!

Bailey Island in Maine.

2025-08-29T03:21:00.008+02:00

On the Monday morning 25th August the men were up early. Brec to get breakfast from Dunkin Doughnuts, Alan to make coffee. After breakfast they packed, cleaned up and loaded the truck. Then went and said their farewells to all those still on the Lane.

The drive to Maine was largely uneventful and not worthy of mention, except that the two human friends shared the driving.

We all arrived around 18:00 hrs. Sandy and her cousin Mardis were pleased to see us.

We were now living in a beautiful old house, built in the 1800s perched on a small cliff overlooking the Sea.

The view were fabulous. And we occupied a bed room with a large bay window overlooking the bay.

It was foggy on arrival so the views only really came to light in the morning.

We shared the room with a Gruffalo and Tweety Pie!

Mardis, whom we had met years before when we visited an American Indian Pow Wow which was also known as a Schemitzun, made us all a lobster dinner. Sandy did admit when here on Bailey Island they ate lobster every night! To think years ago Lobster, Oysters and Clams were a poor mans meal, today certainly in Europe only the rich can fund it to eat. Suitably fed the humans sat and chatted and read before retiring to bed.

The views from our window in the morning were stunning.

As were they from the rear porch where Alan found Brec, Sandy and Mardis. Needless to say Brec was sketching.

After breakfast Shopping was on the agenda. Brec went to visit a school friend and Mardis took the other two to Freeport’s and LL Bean. The shopping was largely disappointing as our BBF did not find the trousers he was looking for and indeed bought very little. The humans had a light lunch and returned to the house on the hill.

Mardis made lobster again and also she makes the best coleslaw our human had ever eaten.

After dinner the humans sat reading again.

The dawn came up like thunder….. across the Bay.

Mardis took Alan to Land’s End, the very end of the island, but the souvenir shop there was shut.

But there is a fine statue of a Lobsterman there. They returned to collect Brec and then go to the Giants’ Steps.

The rock formation is such that there are large ledges that look like steps going down to the sea.

The view over the Bay were of course spectacular.

Back at the house our male friends made their farewell to Mardis and Sandy then turned the truck for home and Milford. Again they shared the driving and listened to the book of Al Pacino’s life. They were so taken with it that they watched the Godfather film the following night of arrival. They are now getting ready to set sail for a few days. Where the winds will take them and us we will report in the next Blog.

The Annual Family Reunion on the Lane!

2025-08-28T22:41:00.017+02:00

If you have reread our Blog from 23 August 2023 as we asked you to in our last Blog, you will have a rough idea of the family reunion on the lane.

We all, that is us Bears, Brec and our BBF arrived on the Lane on Friday afternoon. What has changed since we last wrote about the Lane is that Brec and Sandy hoped to acquire the big house at the end. They are in contact with the cousins that own it and consequently have taken possession of it and we must say worked really hard to bring out it’s best character.

The photo does to do justice to the house which extends behind. We realise now that our BBF did not take any pictures of other angles or of the inside, except this one:

Out side the room Alan occupied was a bench with a couple of new friends for us Bears.

When they arrived Brec’s younger brother John was talking to neighbours, having just mowed the lawn.

John is the brother who maintains the whole family tree which each year he pins on his shed for all to see.

After catching up with cousins who lived in the Lane Alan and Brec need to find somewhere to eat. On the way they found John digging a whole on the family grave plot for the ashes of Mildred (103) who had passed away recently. Aunt Mildred was Bruce’s mother and that side of the family had decided to scatter part of her ashes in the sea at the end of the Lane at Dawn on Saturday and to bury the rest on the family plot.

The ground was rock hard so John was having a tough time of it, but none of the Morgans ever give up so he managed it eventually. Our humans left him to it and went to a local diner for a meal.

At 10:00hrs the next morning the whole family met in the Funeral Parlour to say farewell to Dan one of the Cousins whom we Bears sat with when we were here last. (See our Blog of 23 Aug 2023)! It was a very moving service and many members of the family got up to say how they remembered him and how they would miss him. Thereafter they drove in procession with four way flashers flashing through red lights even to the cemetery where a small internment ceremony took place.

Afterwards everyone was invited to a wake in a hostilely near by.

Duty done our humans returned to the Lane to change and to prepare for the family picnic the next day. Because of the two internments this year promised to be a full house.

Sandy was on the Lane when they returned. She like us had not seen the house since two years ago and was also pleased at how nice it now looked after having been empty and neglected for so many years.

Sandy went and chatted to her sister-in-law and while Alan sat on Laura’s ( Brec’s daughter’s) back porch and emailed. Brec worked in the yard and cleared out the shed. Our humans now went to have chilli dinner on Laura’s front porch together with John and his wife Barbara who had made the meal.

On the Saturday before the Sunday Reunion there is always a bonfire for those that arrive early. This year it was really well attended due to the various funerals. Thanks to Cousin Julie who kept stoking the fire and John who brought the logs it was the best bonfire for sometime. It was a nice warm evening as they all chatted about Don, no longer with us, but the memories were bright and fresh. Bruce, in whose yard the fire was provided the forks and marshmallows, biscuits and chocolates to make “s’mores” as well as a non alcoholic punch which he said would put hairs on your chest! As the stars came out and the fire died down people began to drift off for the night.

Sunday morning our BBF was up early to make coffee and Brec was up early to drive to Dunkin’ Doughnuts for Boston Cream doughnuts which our BBF loves.

By the time our BBF got to the breakfast on the beach a few had already left. Alan had his Boston Cream and enjoyed the view and company.

The actual picnic always takes place in front of Laura’s house where we all stayed two years ago. Like last time John hung up the huge family tree and gave out the name badges. Once everyone had arrived Bruce rang the cow bell to call all to order Roy said a prayer and led the Doxology after which the buffet was open.

Friendships between distant cousins were renewed and family happenings since the last picnic shared. Later when everybody had eaten enough they adjourned to the beach. As in 2018 when we were here Alan had the use of a blow up dinghy. Mark helped him carry it to the beach.

Roy had stated that he wanted to swim to Grass Rock this year as well. Most people were concerned for his safety as he is now 92 years young.

Here you see the swimmers and a couple of them had rubber rings for safety. One woman had a ring she could sit in which was the blue one you see in the photo.

Alan was the major safety person and wore a life jacket in the dinghy as per regulations.

As it is he found the dinghy difficult to row as it had no keel. Close to Grass Rock it was clear that Roy was pooped and he said he was going to swim back. He refused to get in the dinghy with our BBF and now had difficulty swimming in the right direction. Brec became consequently the main life saver holding Roy to his cheat while Roy had one hand on the bow of the dinghy and the other on large rubber ring. Other swimmers stayed nearby. Even so it was difficult maintaining direction, but with Alan paddling they finally managed to get Roy on to the beach.

Alan now slowly rowed back to the main beach where the old codger had great difficulty getting out of the beached dinghy. He fell out into the water rather than stepping out and one of the family helped him stand up. Mark then was there to help our BBF carry the dinghy back to where it belonged. Brec once Roy was safe and well with another family member swam back out and finally stood on Grass Rock.

Sandy had left early to drive to Maine. The men on returning had showers and threw their wet things in the washer and dryer. For an evening meal they drove out to Niantic and had fish at Skippers Restaurant. They returned to the house on the Lane and sat for a while before going to bed. Tomorrow would be another day.

A visit from Germany!

2025-08-28T18:12:00.013+02:00

On Monday 18th August Sandy took Brec’s old car to JFK Airport to collect two young women visiting from Germany.

Caroline the daughter of Anja a member of the Phileas Fogg Club who is also a friend of Brec and Sandy, visited three years ago and now has come back for a week with a student friend, Emilia.

Our BBF cooked the welcome meal of chicken Piccata and lemon risotto washed down with Prosecco. Brec produced an outline plan of activity for us all. So as Caroline said she was keen to go for a sail. Brec had taken her out for a short one last time she was here, it was decided to go for a day sail to Port Jefferson on Tuesday.

The weather was kind to us, it was sunny and there was a fair wind to sail on.

Sadly Emilia felt queasy and Caroline as she had much empathy for her friend also in sympathy felt queasy by the end.

Once anchored the seasickness went away and they had the excellent shrimp salad Sandy had prepared for them. After lunch Brec went for swim and a walk ashore while our BBF had a nap and the girls sunned themselves on deck.

The humans then decided to motor into town to have an ice cream before sailing back. When they got there the two girls decided to take the ferry back.

Brec and Alan after eating an ice sailed back. Our BBF told us afterwards that it was a cracking sail back which the girls would not have enjoyed.

On Wednesday 20th August early in the morning Sandy too the two young women to the station to take the train into New York for site seeing. Sandy and Alan went later.

As it was nearly lunchtime they had a NY Hotdog before continuing the walk from Grand Central Station to the MOMA(Museum of Modern Art).

Sandy, who has an annual membership of the MOMA, kindly agree to get all three visitors in for $5 each, so at 13:00hrs Caroline and Emilia met them at the entrance. Once inside they all did their own thing.

Our BBF told us that he thoroughly enjoyed the visit though the MOMA was crowded.

Once our two humans had seen enough of Matisse, Picasso, Monet and other famous artists they needed some shopping therapy to recover.

On the walk back to Grand Central they browsed a number of the shops and our BBF bought a few things along the way.

The two your women arrived back much later than expected because they initially took the wrong train. Brec kindly picked them up late at night and they were given some left overs to assuage their hunger.

On Thursday 21st August Sandy took the two young women back to the Station so they could do more site seeing and shopping in NY. After a leisurely breakfast Alan and Sandy went shopping locally and Brec went to work on his boat and in his studio.

The next day, Friday, Sandy and the two young women had a girls shopping trip planed while we and the two males went to Waterford and the family Lane. (See our Blog from 23rd August 2023) Before departing though Alan quickly took a car back to one of the shops he was at on Thursday to exchange a shirt he had bought. He had picked up a large size as in Germany he needs a large to go round his fat belly. Here in America where every thing is bigger, he could have fitted two of him into the large. He tried on a small and that fitted much better!!

On Saturday Sandy would be taking the two young women to the station again in the morning as they were leaving to stay over night in New York before returning to Germany on the Sunday. She would then come and join us all on the Lane.

Time for another visit to Milford Connecticut!

2025-08-18T18:25:00.027+02:00

It was time for our BBF to have another adventure with his BF’s in Milford, so bags got packed and we were locked into his hand luggage suitcase on the left.

Early in the Morning on Monday 11 August Petra and Vincent dropped us all off at Düsseldorf Airport. Our BBF had already checked in and had his Boarding Passes, so the actual Check-in went smoothly as did the Security Checks and then it was just a short wait for the first flight which took us to Dublin. It seems the norm now on European flights is that you have to pay for refreshments, so our BBF shut his eyes and dozed most of the way.

In Dublin he was keen to have a sit down meal in a restaurant, but this was not to happen. He discovered that the US Customs and Immigration had a facility at the airport so decided to go through them after ascertaining that there were places to get refreshments on the other side! Unlike the US Customs and Immigration in JFK New York there were little queues and it went quickly. Now, however, the only restaurant on this side was for First and Business Class Passengers! There was an Irish Pub which was full and one had to queue to get a place. There were a number of other cafe’s where one could get coffee and a sandwich. There was also a number of machines that dispensed drinks and sandwiches.

Our BBF got himself a chicken salad sandwich and a bottle of water and sat in the waiting area by the departure Gate to eat it.

Although it was mid morning there were not that many people in the hall which filled up as time went on. We had a total of five hours to wait, which if we had sat in a restaurant and had a proper meal would have flown by. As it was, it was a tedious wait. Time passed and when we boarded the hall was full of people. The Air Lingus flight was full and Alan had an aisle seat. The woman next to him coughed and sneezed all the way over! The food on the flight was the worst we have ever had and the entertainment system was not that inspiring either. The quality of the sound was poor as was the choice of movies. Our BBF gave it up as a bad job and did his best to doze instead. Arrival at JFK and leaving the aircraft went to smoothly and quickly. There were no further checks at all and we were out in record time. The flight was also early so we had a short wait for Brec to come and collect us.

It was dark by the time we arrived home in Milford and we were pleased to be released from the case to rest in our new bed.

Despite our jet lag the old friends sat and chatted well into the night. The next morning Brec was pleased to be able to use his new breakfast bowl and mug.

On Wednesday Brec and Sandy gave Alan the keys to the Truck and told him it was his to use while he was here. Needless to say after breakfast he took off in it.

He went to the Connecticut Post Mall shopping centre bought a charging cable for his iPhone so he could charge it while driving and then later a phone holder. He also discovered how to use the cruise control and coupled the phone with the car audio system via Bluetooth. In the Mall Alan now had lunch.

Alan then drove to Bridgeport East End Yacht Club to join Brec in doing some varnishing on OTTER.

He said that it was far too hot in the sun and that it felt like they were both back in Rebak Marina in Malaysia. Our BBF felt good and relaxed to be back just pottering around on a boat again. Once it was done Alan took off for home where he had a quick nap for the humans were all going out to dinner.

On Wednesdays at the Bridgehouse Restaurant Lobsters are on special! What is better than a lobster?……..Two lobsters, which our BBF felt was almost too much of a good thing, but he polished them off and enjoyed every morsel!

After dinner Brec had to go to his studio to complete a painting, while Sandy and Alan returned home alone, and drank Genever out of the Shipfaced glasses Alan bought in Cutty Hunk two years ago!

After Breakfast Sandy went into town to get the new Truck registered and licensed for the road. Brec took it anyway to go to the boat and do some varnishing. Alan was tasked with taking Brec’s car to a Muffler Repair Shop to get an estimate, as his exhaust was a little loud! The estimate was horrendous and since the car has over 418,000 miles on the clock, maybe it was time to get rid of it.

Alan returned to the house and with Sandy went shopping where he bought a cheap pair of trousers and jeans with a couple of T-Shirts so that he could do dirty work on the boat.

Brec had invited his Lodger Bill, also a marine artist, from next door to dinner after which the male humans all went to Bill’s to watch a series about the war in the Pacific a bit like ‘Band of Brothers”. They drank whiskey and ate popcorn while watching it.

On Thursday Brec had to fly to Arizona to visit his sister who is slowly dying! Alan took the Truck and went for a drive. He ended up in Old Saybrook and went shopping in West Marine where he bought himself a set of new boat shoes. That night after dinner Sandy and Alan played Cribbage and drank more Genever!

Friday morning was a wellness day for the two humans and the cat! The humans went for a neck and foot massage at a Thai establishment which was very relaxing and much needed. After a quick roast beef sandwich for lunch they returned home to take the cat to the vet. Emma has been complaining to anyone who will listen. Our BBF just meows back! The Vet gave her the once over took blood for tests, but for a 19 year old cat Emma seemed in perfect condition. Maybe it was just senility creeping in!

On the way home now we had to go to the railway station to collect Sandy’s God son Jens. Sandy and Jens have this custom of binge watching “The Lord of the Rings” which they have been doing for some 11-15 years now. But before we could start doing that we had to go out to the Café in Milford for drinks and a meal, as well as meet Sandy’s friends and listen to the music.

Jens is an interesting young man. He is in his 30s, has a degree in political science and international relations and is moving to Vienna to work. He speaks some German which will clearly improve while he is there. Our BBF and he spoke a little German to each other during the evening.

Back home the binge watching started. Sandy has the whole of the Lord of the Rings Directors cut on six CDs. Alan watched the first two before going to bed. When he got up again in the morning they were already into the next session which lasted the rest of the day. At the end of the session Jens had to leave to catch his train home.

When Sandy returned as there was an oyster festival in town she and our BBF went looking for oysters and some fizzy water. At the first place they chose there was standing room only and no parking spaces available! At the River View Bistro they found parking and space to sit at the bar.

It was to be Alan’s treat, they drank Prosecco, Sandy had Clam Chowder and Alan four Oysters. Yum!

After that it was off to the Irish Club in Milford where Sandy is a member as her great great grandmother was from Ireland. Alan was looking forward to Irish music, but the band played a mix of modern pop/rock.

They had some nibbles to eat which went down very well with the Guinness! When the band paused for a break after 90 minutes of playing Alan and Sandy returned home to play more Cribbage and drink Genever. It was a great card playing session with much drinking and merriment. Alan came to bed at least three sheets to the wind!

There is no peace for the wicked and so our BBF was up early to shower and go to church the next day. As Brec had returned late in the night he was allowed to sleep in.

It was good service with a friendly congregation. Sandy and Alan drove home with the top down.

Later in the afternoon they went shopping and Alan treated Sandy and himself to the best ice cream in Milford at Scooby Doo’s!

Brec has now made a plan for sailing. Tomorrow, Monday two young women from Mönchengladbach are coming to stay for a week and Sandy will be picking them up in the afternoon, so we will have a full House here.

Passendale and the Ypres Salient!

2024-10-08T21:44:00.001+02:00

We traveled to Lille on Monday 7 October with our BBF to meet with Glenn and Gwen from Canada to visit the Battlefields of WWI. We had been before and wrote about it

Home Again!

2024-06-11T21:07:00.001+02:00

Our BBF was annoyed and perplexed last night ( Monday 10 June ) when he couldn’t find affordable accommodation for our next night! His lack of fitness for maintaining 80-100 Kms per day meant that we would take longer and so the whole Adventure looked more expensive than first thought! The weather was far from perfect for rain was forecast on our route for the next two days. As we went to sleep our BBF announced that we would return home. He‘d rather spend money on outings with his patchwork families than on a cycle tour where only rain was our steady companion!

The next morning it was not raining yet which was a bonus. Alan was the only guest for breakfast after which he packed and then collected the bike! Once loaded we had a look at what Bergheim had to offer.

As it was mildly sunny we Bears could sit where we too could enjoy the countryside. Bergheim, appeared to us to have far more Italian Ice Cafes than decent restaurants.

Once the right direction was found we headed out of town on a different route to the one we came in on. Eventually we did find and follow the Erft river again.

Without rain the ride was more entertaining and enjoyable!

Once again we crossed over the river on small bridges!

Occasionally we would see the odd human walking a dog, but we had the paths to ourselves!

Then the route took us over a hill we did not cross before to find ourselves on the edge of a large windpark!

Close by was also a brown coal fired power station. Later we came closer to one and found our small hut again!

It was cold on the bike which explains our BBF‘s head covering. Then it was on again until we reached home in good order.

Alan left us to take a short walk into town to buy a few bits.

He didn’t fancy cooking so took himself off to Bowl Brothers for a meal.

He was the only guest, though they appeared to do a brisk trade in takeout/deliveries!

So ended a brief adventure.

The Three Rivers Cycle Tour Day One

2024-06-10T19:35:00.001+02:00

Our BBF was in need of an adventure and so he decided we would cycle a route following three rivers. The suggested route started in Cologne and follows the Rhine North then follows the Erft to more or less its source and then the Ahr back to the Rhine. This morning 10 June it was overcast and rain was in the offing. The thought did occur to us not to go, but if we put it off we’d never go.

Coming from the North to join this circular route we cycled to Grevenbroich to pick it up, some 15 kms. The rain was light, but steady which meant our BBF put on all his oilies or what ever cyclists call their rain gear. It was good that he did as the rain didn’t stop. The route took us down Konstantinstrasse in Mönchengladbach where there is Stadler a large cycle shop. Our BBF stopped here to buy a rain cover for his helmet and a pair of new Galoshes. The ones he had were missing a strap and not the best one could buy. The first pair with his shoe size wouldn’t fit so he exchanged them for XL which did. Then after using their toilets we set off again.

The route followed minor roads but with a fair amount of traffic which made it noisy. The cycle path out side of town was more often than not on the other side of the road. It got colder as we progressed so at a bus stop hut we stopped to put on another layer under the water proof jacket. In Grevenbroich we had a bit of a problem picking up the new route to follow the Erft, but eventually found the right way.

Now the route was along one bank or the other of the river, through woodland where we were afforded some protection from the rain. At just the right time we came across a little hut with a bench where we stopped to have a sandwich lunch. Sadly opposite us was parked very a noisy soiled water tanker which had stopped to pump out the rain water drain.

Were it not for the rain the route would have been pretty with places to stop and enjoy the river. We cycled on though. After some four hours of cycling our BBF was tiring and decided to find somewhere to stay. He found a small hotel in the middle of Bergheim and so we went there.

The hotel when we got there was all shut up, so after calling the proprietor we sat in the Italian ice cafe opposite to await his arrival. Our BBF indulged in a Coffee ice cream which was far larger than he expected!

The bike was parked in a garage and locked up and we made ourselves at home. After a wash and brush up our BBF had a nap.

We found a Cafe not too far from our hotel for a meal and an isotonic drink.

It has stopped raining as we write, but the forecast is for more of the same. Not nice but all part of life’s adventure our BBF says.

The long journey home!

2023-10-03T19:47:00.001+02:00

Our BBF slept well, but woke early. He dozed and then got up at around 08:30 hrs. Showered, shaved, got dressed and packed the last suitcase. When he took it downstairs he found Brec and Sandy there and so he sat and had the last breakfast in Milford.

He loaded his two large suitcases into the back of Sandy’s car with Brec’s help!

Then they gave each other a huge bear hug with watery eyes! Promises were made to return Insha’lla!!

It was a beautiful day with not a cloud in the sky as Sandy drove us all to JFK airport. There was much traffic on the road and it was good that we had left early.

When on the bridge over to Long Island we had a view of the New York sky line.

Sandy dropped us off at Terminal 7 for Condor Airlines and then followed another tearful hug and grateful kisses for the generosity and the wonderful hospitality shown us!

Our BBF found the check in desk and dropped off his two suitcases. Then he had to go and pay for the second one, $118!

The security took with the long queue about 30 minutes and he had to go through the X-Ray machine twice and be subjected to a body search as his artificial knee showed up on the scan!

Once belt, boots and everything had been gathered we were off to find lunch! Alan had one last Burger! Then it was just a matter of waiting till it was time to board!

The Air Tags seemed to show only one suitcase loaded on the plane! It says Backpack but it is a suitcase. We hope it’s a glitch and nothing more!

We boarded late and we Bears are in the shoulder bag under the seat in front!

The route to be taken we found interesting flying over the sea where we sailed just a few short weeks ago! We are amazed now that we sailed back and forth over that bit of ocean!

Our late take off from JFK we felt did not bode well for our onward journey! During the flight our BBF watched a film called A Wrinkle in Time about two children looking for their father! He then tried to sleep a bit but only rested his eyes.

Another film was watched Fools Gold, and so the time passed till landing!

Our BBF did his best to get across the airport to get his connecting flight to Düsseldorf, but failed as they had shut the plane doors a few minutes before!

The Air Tag showed that one case is still in JFK!

We were quickly booked onto another flight leaving at 08:35 hrs, so now went directly but slowly to that gate to wait! The family have been informed so now we just have to get to Düsseldorf to report the lost suitcase!

And then the App told us that both suitcases had arrived in Frankfurt! Good news at least!

And then our BBF had a window seat, but tried to sleep!

We were in Düsseldorf in next to no time!

And our Bags were there too!

Petra and Vincent were there to collect us and took us to Sigrid‘s for a welcome breakfast! Sigrid had her own surprise, birthday gifts for the sailor home from the sea!

Back in our own four walls our BBF went to bed and we began telling the other Bears about our adventures!

Alls well that ends well, now our BBF needs to recover from the adventure in America!

The Last Day!

2023-10-02T05:13:00.001+02:00

Our BBF slept well and deeply. He woke at around 08:10 hrs and went below to make coffee. Brec was up eating his breakfast. Sandy came down and Alan made himself some breakfast too. It all got into a bit of a rush then, Sandy was helping out at Communion and left first. Brec and our BBF after getting dressed followed thereafter.

When it came to Communion the congregation formed a circle and those serving went round clockwise. Our BBF and Brec got on the side where Sandy was serving. Each human took a piece of bread from one server and dipped it into the wine (Sandy) before eating it. The congregation then held hands for the last prayers.

Our humans returned home, where Brec got changed into work clothes to go and sort out a few things on the boat as the weather was so fine. Sandy and our BBF got in the VW Beatle with the top down as it was so sunny and warm and went shopping.

They stopped for lunch at Five Guys which has the reputation of having the best Burgers in the country.

They were certainly good and came up to the hype they had on the walls.

Alan wanted a simple Luggage Strap for the new suitcase, but it proved a bit difficult finding one. Eventually they did. He also bought a couple of Air Tags to put in the suitcases which they found in Walmart, and a couple of Luggage Labels too. Then it was back to Milford. He finished packing the one suitcase and then Booked in for his flight online.

That done a certain stress fell from his shoulders.

When Brec returned from work the humans went out for a last meal together in a really nice Italian restaurant down town.

Our BBF ordered a salad for a starter, but it was huge and he just ate enough to make him want more.

He had a Seafood Platter with Linguine and it was indeed good. Sea food here in Connecticut is always fresh and not something he can get as easily in Mönchengladbach.

The humans toasted themselves and the adventure that had shared and enjoyed some more good time together.

Back at home they relaxed and watched a film, the Green Book which is base don a true story, was funny as well as being a comment on racism in America. One last toast using the Shipfaced Glasses filled with Port ended the perfect day before they retired to bed.

A Birthday on the Lane.

2023-10-01T03:58:00.001+02:00

The weariness in our BBF’s bones is still there for he spent a restless night and got up tired. He stayed in his PJs and just put on a warm top and went downstairs to make some coffee. Brec had returned from taking his brother to the airport. With coffee to revive him he felt better. His thought of getting abluted and dressed died. He made himself some toast for breakfast instead and thereafter went upstairs to have a trial pack. Alan had bought a new suitcase and initially intended to ditch his old one, but not everything he had went into the new one, so he decided he would use it to pack the rest of what he had and have no rucksack as hand luggage as he did on the way out. It will cost, but we remember one year when he sent parcels back by post and he then discovered that an extra suitcase was cheaper. Then there was another year where Sandy gave him an old suitcase for all his stuff!

The weather outside was cold and wet. The men had to go to a birthday party on the Lane. It was John’s party for all his cousins and family who live on the lane. After our BBF had showered and as he was finishing dressing he had a Facetime call with Petra and Vincent. Consequently the men were a bit late getting going.

The weather was not really conducive to having a picnic party on the Lane, but John and Barbara had put up some tents to give protection from the rain which fortunately did not come full force, it just dripped a bit, but it was cold.

Two brothers, Brec and the birthday boy John and cousin Mark standing in front of the Pizza trailer John had organised. It had a genuine wood pizza oven and the pizzas served were very tasty.

A huge birthday cake was produced with a picture of John as a baby which we all found cute.

The Pizza Wagon had real difficulty getting out of the Lane.

But after much to-ing and fro-ing managed to back up out of the lane guided by Brec and another cousin.

John made a couple of speeches and was pleased that many of his relatives were able to come and help celebrate his 70th birthday. People sang Happy Birthday and those that knew it also sang Sandy and Brec’s family birthday song. Our BBF and Brec were the last to leave and drove home in the rain and dark.

Brothers singing.

2023-09-30T03:55:00.001+02:00

Brec had asked our BBF if he would make pancakes for breakfast last night, so this morning after a good nights sleep where some of the weariness in his bones was eased he got up at 07:30 hrs to make breakfast. He prepared pancakes, bacon and eggs, laid the table and then waited for the other humans to rise. Sandy woke and came for coffee. Alan made some apple pancakes and some plain and kept them all warm in the oven. The Morgan men slept in and eventually our BBF called up the stairs, “Morgan men, show a leg, breakfast it ready!”

The conversation at breakfast was easy and light hearted with much laughter. Brec and Geoff sat and played songs and sang to their guitars. Geoff had written many of the songs himself.

Leaving the brothers playing their music Sandy and our BBF went shopping. He doesn’t have many days left for one of his favourite activities now.

They went to the Trumball Mall in Bridgeport where Alan found a number of things he wanted and spontaneously bought a few others. Sandy went for a pedicure while our BBF shopped.

He then need a coffee and a doughnut and went to Dunkin donuts in the Mall as he has discovered the Boston Cream donut which he likes. Sandy joined him there and they then drove home. It was still raining and the Freeways were chockablock with cars, it now being the rush hour traffic on a Friday night.

Back at home Sandy and Alan cooked the evening meal, after which our BBF shared a glass of Writers’ Tears with Brec and Geoff, who then played and sang some more.

Brec is taking Geoff to the airport tomorrow early so we all said our farewells before going to bed.

A Morgan Family Birthday Party on the Lane.

2023-09-29T06:36:00.001+02:00

Our BBF was the last up this morning, the other humans having gone about their business. He spent some time in the shower and then trimmed his pirate looking beard to that of a gentleman. He made himself bacon and eggs for breakfast and Sandy retuned as he finished it.

Sandy had done most of their laundry and our BBF could now do ours. We have to comment on the size of these huge machines, compared to the one Alan has these are industrial size which the picture does not do justice to. Sandy then left again to help her sister-in-law with the preparation for the family birthday party that evening. Our BBF sorted out his stuff so that he could better find things. His suitcase had been a bit of a mess, but now there was some system to it.

Brec returned from having worked on the boat getting it ready for the winter. He made himself some lunch and after a shower the men left to go to New London to visit the Thames River Gallery where Brec has many paintings in their show.

Our BBF was now able to view the painting done by Brec which is the star of the show.

Our BBF looked at some of the other artists paintings and then discovered a book.

We had no idea that the US Coast Guard had a Bear as a mascot. He asked if he could buy the book and the owner John Johnson said no he could have it and pass it on to his grandchildren. Little does he know that we Bears will keep the book for a while first.

The men then drove to the Lane in Waterford to John’s house to help celebrate his 70th Birthday. Brec went looking for his brothers and after saying “hi!” to the woman Barbara and Sandy took a walk down the Lane to say goodbye to the Ocean.

The sun was setting and the wind was blowing cold so our BBF did not stay long, just sat and thought what an incredible adventure we had all had.

John the birthday boy and his older brother Brec chilling after a tasty meal of twosorts shrimp with two sorts of rice and sauce with beans and roast cauliflower.

Our BBF was now also introduced to Geoff, Brec’s other brother who is a gifted song writer and guitarist. He had written a special song for John’s birthday and now sang it to him.

The candles on the cake were blown out in one puff so wishes can come true. John now opened his presents and one of the first was the Tower of London mug our BBF had found in an antique shop in Lunenburg. John now surprised Alan by giving him a present!

John had had a number of glass globes made with the logo of Brec’s circumnavigation inscribed with his time in New Zealand for family members. We were there at the same time and Alan was now very emotional at this generous gesture.

The last present John opened was a small version of the larger one of the Lane in the Gallery, signed also on the back with some personal words from Brec.

Geoff then sang another song he had written about the front room of the house the humans were in. Back in the day when the Morgan’s were children it was their grandmother’s house and it was a lovely tune which invoked the love of the Lane and the times the brothers shared on it. One line of the song mentions how their mother would bring the children tuna sandwiches for lunch down on the beach. So now we know where Brec got his love of tuna from.

This was just a Morgan family affair and our BBF felt privileged to have been included in it. The party ended and the humans returned to Milford, bringing Geoff with them. On Saturday there will be a formal large party to celebrate John’s 70th.

The last day’s sail!

2023-09-28T20:12:00.001+02:00

It was a quiet night and the humans slept peacefully. They arose at 05:00 hrs and prepared for sea. Our BBF made each of them a thermos mug of tea and then they slipped in the dark through the rail bridge which opened for us out into the harbour. The sky was clear of all clouds and first light promised a fine day ahead.

There was little wind at this stage and the humans were wrapped up well for the cold.

Brec navigated well again we have to say and our BBF was the voice activated Autohelm!

As we came up to the Lighthouse at the entrance to the channel we were over taken by two fast US Navy Patrol Boats armed to the teeth clearly going out to escort a Submarine into Harbour.

Then suddenly it was there coming in at a fast rate. One Patrol boat put itself between us and the Sub and gave us a toot, but we were already turning onto our course for Bridgeport. Alan gave them a friendly wave and then they rushed off to protect the Sub.

The sun then rose out of the sea in a blaze of glory.

It was still very cold, but the moral of the crew and us Bears was great. We had not seen the sun since before the Hurricane Lee caused us such grief two weeks ago now.

Brec set the Genoa and we motor sailed initially at over 7 knots later it came down to just over 5 knots which we managed to maintain over the whole voyage.

Brec served breakfast to his autohelm and then we passed the beach at the end of his family Lane where so many memories for him lie.

Brec had made a larger version of this painting which is the centre piece of a Gallery exhibition in New London entitled,

Brec deep in memory of his boyhood spent on the Lane. We too have been privileged to go there and share in annual Family picnics and stroll on the beach.

As the sun warmed up the day the humans were able to shed clothing and throughly enjoyed the last sail of this great adventure.

The wind was light and as it turned the Genoa was poled out.

First one side and then the other. Brec served lunch and made a Hot Dog Sandwich for his helmsman which would sell easily in New York on one of the many Stands there. Brec said that the Hotdog Stands Salesmen were very enlightened as Buddhist Monks would go up to then and say, “Make me one with everything!”

More clothes were shed and soon we saw the entrance to Bridgeport. Brec admitted that this was one of the fastest passages from New London he had ever made.

The sun on the last voyage of the season for us bears was great too and soon the humans made up on OTTER’s home slip at the East End Yacht Club. We had sailed in eight days a total of 497 Nautical Miles from Lunenburg, Nova Scotia to Bridgeport, Connecticut in all weathers including a Gale! Brec then shared out the last can of beer and the men toasted their achievement. Our BBF was emotionally tearful, both happy and sad it was all over!

The men then packed their things to begin getting off the boat. Brec went to get his car, but the battery was flat. The alarm had gone off while we were away! Brec called AAA to come and start it this took a bit of time. Our BBF did what he could in Brec’s absence to pack and clean up. Then we too were off the boat and in the car back to Sandy in Milford.

Sandy had prepared a lovely meal of really thick lamb chops with fresh asparagus. An excellent red wine was drunk and ice cream was served after.

Brec unwound from his adrenaline rush by playing guitar softly.

Our BBF was a tired Teddy so went to bed early and slept the deep sleep of sailors home from the sea.

A quiet sail to New London.

2023-09-27T00:59:00.001+02:00

On the floating jetty in Galilee where we made up in the dark, as the wind was blowing us onto the jetty, the feeders squeaked, which made for a disturbed night. The humans got up at 06:30 hrs and our BBF made tea and breakfast and the men discussed the next passage over it!

A power boat next to us asked if we could move back as the bowsprit was sticking out preventing him from leaving. The men jumped to do that and no sooner were they below when they noticed him leaving! They realigned the boat and got ready for the passage!

The day was cold grey and overcast with a promise of rain in the air. Outside the harbour Brec set a reefed Genoa and we were off, sailing! The engine was turned off and peace reigned over the boat.

We were protected from large following seas because of the land so it was good sailing were it not for the cold.

As we drew closer to Watch Point and the Passage round it, the seas began to build again. Thankfully the wind was not more than 18-20 knots perhaps gusting 25 knots at times.

You can just see Watch Point over the Starboard side on the horizon!

Fans of Bonnie Tyler may know that she has a house on Watch Point and it is the big white one you see in the middle of the photo.

Once through the Passage we were into Long Island Sound and the following seas were much calmer and we were able to roll out a bit more Genoa!

As our BBF was on watch Brec made some sandwiches for lunch which we ate as we passed Seaflower Reef Light!

It was then just a couple of hours more to New London. The Genoa was rolled away when we got to the entrance and the engine put back on. We have made up in Crocker’s Boatyard again.

Would you believe the sun came out after our humans had showered!

Brec then showed us a horrid bruise he had discovered on his arm which he probably got this morning pushing the boat off the jetty!

The humans, clean and refreshed went ashore for a meal! Tomorrow will be a sparrow fart start so they will be in bed early for tomorrow is going to be at least a ten hour sail to Bridgeport.