Late in May of 2022, Cassie was finishing up working at Pacific University and enjoying her last time in academic regalia as she retired (again) at the end of May. Allan, our black lab puppy Coco and friend Tom Perham started this journey leaving Fair Harbor Marina in Grapeview, WA (south Puget Sound) heading north May 21st. Tom is a longtime sailor and had the good sense to get rid of his sailboats (Catalinas) some years back. Great to have an experienced sailor on board and he’s a marvelous friend and companion for Coco and Allan. They spent the first night in Eagle Harbor at Winslow. Stops along the way included Everett, Coupeville on Whidbey Island, Anacortes, and finally Bellingham – staying at marinas since the windlass (the machine that pulls the anchor up) was not working. The first of many challenges we would face in terms of fixing things while cruising. Cassie drove from Cashmere, loaded with supplies, and we said farewell and thanks to Tom. We enjoyed a wonderful visit and incredible dinners with our friends the Jones’ in Bellingham before we left the docks and headed towards the San Juan Islands.