Winter doldrums and spirits lifted with a new crew member

The Winter isn't really playing along very well. Rain storms a couple weeks ago brought lots of wind. Too much. But then when it isn't storming it hasn't been windy. Except for Christmas and then again on New Year's Eve, which were already busy with other activities. I put a large tarp over the boat and have at least had the excuse to be on the boat a couple times over the holiday break to reattach bungees (some new, stronger ones) since the wind ripped out a few grommets and shredded the cheapo bungees. 

Well, what do you do when you can't sail? 

You buy sailing gear, or better yet receive it as gifts. My wife got me a great Gill foul weather jacket. Nice enough that I can see it being my preferred rain jacket in general. Also got a West Marine gift cert so will do some boot shopping later today. 

What else do you do? 

You expand your crew. Which we did on the 12/29. On the way home from a friend's place in Tahoe, we took at 4 hour detour up North to Red Bluff and visited an amazing Lab breeder, Top Dog Retrievers. They do trained hunting dogs, drug dogs, and service dogs. Our little girl is 16 weeks, had some starter training, and is a very chill pup. She can't really be around other dogs or environments just yet until the Parvo shots take hold. Can't wait to get her onto the boat and acclimatized. In the meantime, here is a photo and video.