5 years of cruising

Today marks 5 years since we left Baltimore to go cruising ⛵️. Since then, we have sailed to 4 continents, traveled to 16 countries, crossed the Atlantic twice, sailed in the Mediterranean and Caribbean seas, met countless fascinating people, and eaten some really weird and wonderful foods. Throughout the five years, and especially in the past one, we have been able to spend periods of time in Maryland with our families to celebrate holidays, attend weddings and funerals, and work. It was necessary, and wonderful to be with friends and family, but it was also very difficult to live out of suitcases in our parents’ houses and adjust to very different routines. Despite being able to return on occasion, we missed a lot and it wasn’t always easy to be away. That being said, I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything. I’ve learned so much about myself, my marriage, sailing, history, culture, and human nature. In about a month, we will be docking in Baltimore to complete our journey and I don’t know whether to cry for the ending of this chapter or cheer for the start of the next one. I do want to thank you all for following along with my updates, pictures, and tidbits. It’s meant so much for me to feel connected to my friends while we were away. Phew! What an incredible 5 years!