My name is Charlotte, sometimes known as Ms Lottie, occasionally as The Slightly Mad Quilt Lady. This is my blog, where you'll find me writing a lot about my quilting and textile arts and a little about my family's life in a small seaside town in New Zealand. Haere mai!

Tuesday, September 16, 2014

Morning Walks


We're enjoying living on board.  It's been more than a week and we are getting the hang of it.  It's a bit like camping, you have to figure out processes and procedures to make life smooth - like where to tie the dog up at night so she makes the least noise on deck (did you know how loud a Lab can snore and toss and turn?).


My agility is increasing.  We are tied up to a stationary dock, meaning that the boat goes up and down with the tide, but the dock stays put.  We haven't a gangway (yet) and so we climb up or down to the boat as dictated by the water level.  Occasionally I have to balance on dock lines, using my weight to push them down and pull the boat close enough to get the dog on or off.

I've only dropped one bag of shopping in the water so far....


One of the things I'm most enjoying is the walks.  Having a dog on board necessitates several times a day walks, for reasons I'm sure you can imagine.  And it's a lovely part of New Zealand to walk in.

The kids are enjoying the walks too.  There is something magical about kids and beaches.  Sticks, stones, shells and anemones are all subjects of discovery and imagination.  If they are bored, grumpy or sad, the beach is a magical cure.


And the beach holds endless opportunity for me too.  I'm trying to remember to take my camera every time with the intention of photographing one thing.  Whether it be beautiful, interesting or inspirational, just one thing that I take time to really look at.

Yes, the ideas for quilts are numerous!


I'll leave you with a picture of MV Cerego.  This was taken by a friend who was in his own boat when we took her a quick sea trial while we moved her to her new berth.  She's cruising at 10 knots, about her maximum speed.  Isn't she beautiful?

14 comments:

  1. A lovely photo of a beautiful boat! Pleased you are settling in. It really is an out door and fresh air lifestyle! Brings back lots of happy memories!

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  2. How exciting for you Charlotte! MV Cerego is looking fantastic. I look forward to seeing your many upcoming walks and adventures...and quilts.

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  3. Yes, she certainly looks beautiful, how proud you all must be after your hard work, I'm looking forward to posts on your travels.

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  4. Wonderful Charlotte, she is beautiful! I bet life seems so different for you now and great to see you are enjoying it. Have you moved all your things in yet? Ouch with the shopping!

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  5. It sure is beautiful! Enjoy your new adventure!

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  6. How wonderful, I can hear the peace in your words. Thanks for sharing.

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  7. She is gorgeous and your walks sound like a little bit of heaven!

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  8. Reminds me of days at the crib. Specially the anemonies :)

    viv

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  9. What a transformation! Is the inside finished if you are living aboard already?

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  10. She is beautiful! She's come a long way. :)

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  11. Wow...looks fabulous and I think you guys are so amazing and your kids so very blessed ...what fabulous fun and experiences!!! Xx mel

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  12. Lovely boat, and I'm glad you are adjusting well to life on her. Thanks for sharing.

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