Loopy

So, my parents are off on their dream adventure - boating around The Great Loop.  The Loop is a series of inland waterways that journey up the entire east coast, up into Canada and the Great Lakes, and down through the central eastern states, then back into Florida.  The trip takes about a year.

The Loop started as an idea, turned into a dream, became a passion and is now reality for my Dad and Carrie.  And we couldn't be more excited for them (especially my brother who gets the ultimate bachelor pad to himself for the better part of a year).  Dad held out for a while, thinking they would go when the economy improves - but who knows how long that will be?!?  So we all encouraged them to follow their dreams and go do the Loop.

The boat they bought is beautiful, and they named it "Once Around".  This happens to be the title of one of their favorite movies, where a lady falls in love with a free spirit, and although their time together was crazy and short - she said it was the time of her life.  Of course, "Once Around" also signifies their trip once around The Great Loop.  Over time it may have to be changed to "Twice Around" or "Going Around Again Part II".

I am thrilled that my parents are turning their dream into reality, although my family and I will miss them terribly while they're gone.  We're a very close knit group:  we try to have family dinner most Sundays, we are involved in each other's lives - heck, I see my Dad almost every day at work.  To suddenly have them up and far away. . . well, it won't be easy on any of us.  But Dad's stint in the hospital earlier this year is another reminder that you have to follow your dreams and do things before life throws you a curve ball.

Last Saturday we threw my parents a Bon Voyage party.  Thanks to my hectic and stress filled schedule, my sister and brother handled most of the details.  I am very thankful to them for getting things done.  Except for crazy winds, which moved our outdoor party slightly indoors (thankfully they have a very large garage - although it did remind me of those dances we used to have in 8th grade), the evening was filled with laughter, close friends, and children taking shots.  Of water, of course.  Here are some pictures of the evening:

In case you are interested, my parents are keeping a blog of their journey, and you can link to it through my blog (hint: it's called "Once Around").  I know those two crazy kids couldn't be happier right now, especially knowing that all of us who love them are cheering them on and hoping they stay far away from the open waters and Somali pirates.