Whatever you can do,
Or think you can, begin it.
Boldness has power, and genius,
And magic in it.
– Goethe

To our amazing families and friends, and to all the people who are following our journey,

Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and Happy New Year from Chris, Erica, Bryson, Riesling, and Porter, the conwaysailors aboard s/v Patronus:

“Here’s to us that are here, to you that are there, and the rest of us everywhere.” -Rudyard Kipling

We are enjoying the lovely and beautiful island of St. Croix for Christmas.  Patronus is decked out in holiday regalia, the gingerbread houses are decorated, and the presents are ready to be exchanged.  We have been listening to our favorite holiday songs, such as the Charlie Brown Christmas album and John Denver and the Muppets Christmas, but we still have to have our daily dose of Bob Marley and Jimmy Buffet!

In our annual holiday card, I usually pore over the thousands of photos I take each year, trying to find a few to share with everyone.  This year, I think you have all seen quite enough of us, so I was thrilled when Reese drew this picture.  It is perfectly in keeping with our quest for an adventurous year, a simpler holiday season, and focusing on what is important: our family.

Finally, before we kick off our flip flops, reach for that present surrounded by conch shells, and crack open one of those coconuts, we offer one last quote from all of us to all of you.  As you strive to achieve your own definition of success, please know that you already make each of us “breathe easier” by your friendship, your kind words of encouragement, your love, and simply by your presence in our lives.

“To laugh often and much;

To win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children;

To earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends;

To appreciate beauty;

To find the best in others;

To leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition;

To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived.

This is to have succeeded.”

-Ralph Waldo Emerson

Lokah Samastah Sukhinoh Bhavantu                                                                            May All Beings Everywhere, Be Peaceful, Happy and Free