Island Adventure

Feeling burnt out from the pressures of dogs and family -- I decided to take a weekend off and go to our falling down shack on Vinalhaven. Of course, in order to get my "vacation" I have to take at leats three dogs with me, so that David does not have a melt down caring for all seven on his own.

On Saturday morning, I get up at 3:00 a.m. to make the 7:00 a.m. ferry leaving Rockland. As usual, I did not make reservations in time, so I am forced to show-up early and wait in the stand-by line. Gouda, Shasta, Jezabelle hop in the van and off we go.

David warned me that I should not make the trip as the forecast called for 60 mile/hour winds and rain storms - but being desperate for a break, I ignore his warnings and the weather report... Amazingly, the 7:00a ferry was full - so I had to wait for the 8:45a. By 8:00a the winds were blowing, the rain was pouring...but still - I refused to give up.

I gave everbody (including myself) a good dose of Dramamine. At 8:30a, I was waived onto the boat.

My van was in the very front position on the Bow - with nothing in front of us except for one chain across the entry way.

Needless to say - That the longest 1.5 hours of my life. 20 foot waves crashed over the top of van. The boat was flying up into the air and back down as it hit the waves. The dogs were panting and all trying to climb into my lap. I was green - the dramamine did not work for me - I spent the time reaching for the nearest bowl, as the seasoned ferry passengers sent looks of pity my way.

We made it - It was the last ferry of the day. The remaining ferries were canceled due to weather...LOL In fact, all of the returning Ferries on Sunday (mine included) were canceled as well - not that I was in any big rush to head back out into the open sea.

I stood out in the storm on a hill (the only place to find cell phone coverage on the island) and called David to let him know if my delayed return - who gave me the obligatory "I told you so." Very helpful...

Trapped on an island with three dogs during horendous storms. We lost electricity of course. But it was an exercise in forced relaxation - which was good for me. I could not clean, cook or work on the house....nor could I work in the yard...so we all just hung out and watched the storm and waited for the day that the ferries would start running again. It was nice curling up with the pups, by the wood stove, reading a book.

I needed the break - but now I am 3 days behind on my rescue emails. My inbox is full and rejecting new emails. Adopters inquiries have gone unanswered. Urgent pleas from shelters have been answered too late...

I can't wait to go back to the Island:)

CDL