When we set off on this cruising adventure in 2016, we were full of anticipation of how it would all unfold. Everything was brand new. New boat, new places, new people, new way of life.  Well, now that we are a bit more seasoned—the novelty of some things, like haul outs, hurricane prep, talking cell phone plans and ordering parts in foreign countries, have lost some of their once innocent luster. Some days (well most), it’s too hot. Some days, it’s too frustrating, like when cleaning green moss off of — everything. Some days our why question sounds more like “tell me again just WHY we are doing this?  Most of our friends and family wish us well and listen to our stories with some wonderment. And others honestly look at us with a not so subtle air of bewilderment ( “so this is fun to you?”).  We laugh and explain away why it all works out and why we like it so much. (Are we convincing them or us?) Sometimes it seems that words fail to truly express our Why for cruising. We tell some exciting story, perhaps with a little storm peppered into the tale. Or of the time we had to wait 3 months for an inverter delivery in Costa Rica before moving on, what a hoot that was we say, laughing now. In response, there’s the look. Like the one your sweet grandmother might nod with, while you explain the intricate symbolism behind your tattoo. How nice. Truth is we all have a why for the things we choose to do. While some may prefer a Princess cruise to our adventure, there’s a why for that too.  For us, our why has evolved, and with it a deeper appreciation for all we get to do and see on our strong boat—even if it is too darn hot!   And with that spirit, Season 5 is underway!