In a gale, we left CenterPointe Marina in our home port of Traverse City, Michigan. We thought exiting the dock would be the big challenge, with cross winds gusting to 30 knots. But with a few helpers, backing out of the slip went well enough. The forecast for the sea conditions on Grand Traverse Bay called for waves 2 to 4 feet. Nope – more like 6 to 8 feet with a few 10 footers. This caught us a little by surprise as we were hoping to get up to Northport today. Instead, we are tucked in at the Suttons Bay Municipal Marina (about half way to Northport.)

A few waves made it as far as the cockpit. (Notice evidence of our poor seamanship by having the washboards out and companionway open.)

Hooked up to shore power, heaters are blaring to dry us out. For dinner, we made stuffed sweet red peppers with brown rice. Chosen as there is lots of stove top cooking and baking is required for this dish – with a side benefit of adding more heat to the cabin.

Stuffed sweet red peppers with brown rice

Tomorrow, we look forward to some better weather and a chance for some sailing as we turn south at Leelanau Point. Today and up until we make that turn tomorrow, winds are such that motoring is our best option.

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