Christmas and New Years were working holidays for the crew of the Sea Lion. Some of the stews tried to make things a little more festive around the crew spaces by making and hanging traditional Christmas decorations. I wanted to hug them all for it, especially for the gem they hung outside the door to the engine room.

Just in case it isn't quite clear, they used paper from the office recycling bin to make paper snowflakes. I think this is the perfect metaphor for our Christmas.

Not quite two weeks later we are just beginning our second round trip from Colón, Panama to Herradura, Costa Rica and return. This is beginning to feel oddly similar to the ferries in Maine, with no cars and a strangely long run.

Two days ago we docked at a container dock in Colón. Between Colón and the Port of LA where we spent our annual yard period I feel like I am becoming more acquainted with industrial marine infrastructure than I ever expected to be.

But it has not all been work. Most mornings I have managed to spend a little time up on the sundeck with my first cup of coffee and my tahkli, much to the fascination/consternation of guests and crew. I spend most of my free time immersed in the world of fiber arts/crafts, and I forget that the rest of the world does not do the same.