I woke up this morning and headed to the bridge – it felt good. Nothing beats a pastel morning sky.

Nautie Friends, this good vessel has been in port for 18 of the last 21 days. To say there was an audible sigh of relief as we cast our lines off yesterday would be an understatement.

Granted, gearing up for 20+ days of open ocean brings a whole new set of challenges. Especially, when said sea time comes when the entire crew has over 90 days aboard. The number one way to not go crazy during a long sea passage is to mentally gear up….and then stay busy.

I’m mentally gearing up. I’m building to do lists. I’m not letting myself make any plans at home (normally, by this time in the rotation I have my whole vacation planned). I’m listening to music I enjoy. I’m organizing photos. I’m reading a good book. I’m trying to motivate myself to resume my evening walks. I’m dodging fishing gear in the Sea of Japan.

I'm eating persimmons on the bridge wing.