Gen X foodies learning to sail
Some sailing days are packed with purpose and progress, and a lot of play. That was the vibe for us on Lake Michigan this weekend. Smooth Start, Sunny Skies The day started strong. We’d slept well, had a good breakfast, and arrived at Burnham Harbor by 11:30 AM. Despite a tiny case of stage fright …
We Plan to Float, and Float the Plan. I have to admit, for me, "floating" implies the least active of all water activities. It’s kind of the bare minimum, especially if you’re on a boat. Floating is job one for a boat, and it is a pass/fail exercise. But for purposes of this discussion, a …
Continue reading "Setting Sail Safely: A Float Plan is Non-Negotiable"
Winds up to 22 knots, a reef that wasn’t there, and the quiet thrill of doing something you once thought was too much — our second crossing of Lake Michigan was equal parts challenge and growth. This is the story of how our comfort zone expanded, one gust at a time.
We planned for a quiet overnight on the boat — just us, the marina, and an early start the next morning. What we got instead was a noisy festival, a last-minute hotel room, a flamenco dancer, and one of the best sails of the season. My sister joined us for her first-ever monohull sail , and I was at the helm to bring us back in — this time with spectators watching from our neighboring slip! (No pressure, right?) Spoiler: I nailed it. But not without a few nerves.
After a rough first landing on our season opener, I was more than ready for a second shot. This time, everything clicked — calm winds, smooth sailing, and determination at the helm. I learned that docking isn’t about power; it’s about patience, timing, and a few well-placed nudges. And just like that, I found my redemption… and a rhythm I can’t wait to keep building on.
Kent and I are excited to return for our third sailing season with SailTime Chicago aboard Red Sky, our Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 349. We've enjoyed memorable moments, from hosting family during events like the Chicago Air and Water Show to crossing Lake Michigan. We're eager for more adventures and updates in 2025!
Just six months after completing sailing school, we took the plunge and chartered our first sailboat in beautiful Grand Traverse Bay, Michigan. This maiden voyage - our first time without an instructor - was a true test of our skills and a fantastic adventure filled with challenges and triumphs. It solidified our love for sailing and taught us valuable lessons about teamwork, living in the moment, and the magic of the Great Lakes.
Sailing is a wonderful activity, offering peace and tranquility, a serene escape from the day-to-day. But don't be fooled by the peaceful exterior. Beneath the surface lies a world of adrenaline-fueled activity. The high stress and high stakes of docking can make you numb to the rigors of sailing, until it wears off.
Our first-ever sail in the British Virgin Islands exceeded our expectations. Sharing the stunning natural beauty with my sister and niece, the thrill of navigating the open waters, and the unexpected encounters with fellow travelers made for unforgettable memories.
Our journey began in Tortola with crippling high heat and humidity, but that didn't stop us from having the adventure of our lives, sailing in the British Virgin Islands for a week aboard a catamaran. Highlights included snorkeling, breathtaking sunsets, and exploring iconic spots like The Baths and the Soggy Dollar Bar in White Bay. Embracing the unpredictability that sailing brings, the experience was filled with growth and camaraderie!
SAIL & SAVOR BLOG 