School

After last year's Adventure, the family will be avoiding any 'home schooling' on board the boat.  Our last experience was stressful for the entire family.  At times, the friction caused between the parents trying to teach, and the kids trying to learn, was such that we would all want to stop the boat and fly back home!  So, this year we are taking our trip during the summer months, which although during hurricane season, as well as being the hottest time of the year, is greatly preferred to a repeat of class on-board. 

Work

Leslie:  After starting a new job at Valley Teen Ranch last summer, Leslie is committed to the facility to provide the best therapy possible for these troubled youth.  As such, she will be taking only a 4-week vacation, and she will be having a substitute therapist fill in for her part-time. 

Steve:    I have worked for Mauldin-Dorfmeier Construction, Inc. for over 13 years, but have decided that time with my family, and especially my kids, are a greater priority to me right now.  So, I resigned from my position, and will evaluate my professional future while sailing the lonely oceans.  It may be that I return to MDC if they will have me, or embark on another career, maybe in another field.  It is strangely calming to believe that my options are varied, as I believe that my managerial skills will allow me to find gainful employment in any number of fields, if desired.  For now, I'm just going to enjoy my time away from work, until such time I don't enjoy it anymore.