As we sailed up the Potomac River we thought the river expedition must be similar to the Hudson River experience, both wide body rivers of historical importance and both lead to major metropolis, NYC and DC. We reminisced our time spent with our dear friends from Canada Marie-France and Denise where they sailed the Hudson from Lake Champlain several times including a few years ago on their way down to the Bahamas.
Mount Vernon, George Washington’s home, seeing it from the water in the early afternoon light, the way George did when he came home, stopped us cold. Mount Vernon sits up high on the bank overlooking the river, just like it has since construction began in 1741. If it doesn’t give you goose bumps when you see it for the first time, you probably don’t appreciate American history. We were getting close.
Rounding Cornwallis Neck, the river narrows and snakes up to DC. Navigation becomes buoy to buoy, paying strict attention is required.
As we passed New Alexandria and slipped under the 75-foot tall Woodrow Wilson Memorial Bridge (Hwy 495), we head for Old Town Alexandria city dock, I noticed Claudia staring intensely on starboard side, a huge ferris wheel, the home of the Washington National Harbor marina owned by MGM Grand Casino. I tapped her on her shoulder and said “we need to get our lines and fenders out for docking”.
We arrived in Old Town Alexandria 15 minutes later. We were in D.C. waters and in sight of the Washington Monument! We’d made it!
Soon Kara, Ryan and Shay arrived at the boat after their doctor’s visit. Perfect timing. I finally met this bundle of joy with the cutest smile on earth (see photo). We can’t wait to spend time with all of them for the next 2 weeks.
Hi grandpa and grandma! I know what it’s like to see those grandbabies for the first time. It’s overwhelming. We r so happy for you all that you can finally be together.
So glad u enjoyed your voyage thru history getting there. We can’t wait to hear the stories.
We hope you will be safe at anchor when Ian comes through. It was such a terrible experience for so many. Be safe! 😘
Thanks Trish, it’s great … Shay is a beautiful baby. Today we moved the boat today from Old Town Alexandria, Virginia across the Potomac river to the national harbor on the DC site. This should protect us the next four days from the tropical storm. Also, it’s right next to the MGM casino😜. Miss you guys 💕
Love this!! Kara is just beaming! Shay’s just practicing her singing voice to join the Billings musical endeavors. Enjoy every sweet minute
Thanks Kelli!! Love being a vavo !!!
I’m so happy and excited for you! Shay is getting so big! She’s beautiful! Kara looks amazing! I love seeing them on the boat! Hello to Ryan. Enjoy this time with your family on land!! Well deserved break from navigation! Miss you..
Thanks Ron.. I will give them a big hug from you 💕💋💕
Your travel narratives and photos have been stunning, but I don’t think you’ll be able to top this one!
Looks to me like Shay is screaming, “Ahoy Fujiko”!
This will be the best part of your voyage.
She is Beautiful!
You are so right Dennis. This is the best part of our trip and so worth the effort. The photo of mom and daughter is priceless and ripe for sharing. Thanks Dennis for your usual inspiration and insightful comments.
Enjoy your time with the grandchild!!
Hahaha, well that wasn’t the photo that I expected!!
Hi Sandy, Yeah that was Jim who picked the photo. He loved how happy Kara looked. The photo brought a big smile to Ryan and Kara 🤭
Congratulations on all. Enjoy your time together!
Thanks Dennis. We’re absolutely enjoying being with them. How’s basketball? I miss playing with you guys. I did bring my high-tops with me in case I see a game or two on the way.
I miss having you there. We had 13 today. Mostly younger guys. Fast and a bit chaotic. I mildly twisted my ankle on the very last play of my last game. Todd brought a friend. I do t think he had ever played a single game of basketball. Anyway, I hope you get to play some time on your journey. I love that you brought your high tops! How about that hurricane, eh? I’m glad you’re in port right now. Take care.
I’m glad everyone got a kick out of this! This is a realistic picture of parenting a newborn 😀 Serves mom right for forcing a picture of our matching stripes.
Hi Kara, Love the way you dressed her.
We love you all so much 💋💋💋💋
So true Kara! Congratulations to you and Ryan. She’s beautiful!
Thanks Sally!!! So true 💕💕💕💕
Sounds like a wonderful experience. Kara looks so happy & Shaylin looks like she’s crying for Joy!
Enjoy your TIME with the family!!!
Hi Gil… I love your comment… she is crying for Joy seeing her vavo😘