Rachel Returns: No TV? No Computer? No Problem.

You may recall that our last issue featured the favorite books of one Rachel Lether, 12. In this issue, Rachel shares a variety of ways to have fun without obsessing about battery banks or sail trim. If you are a kid like me, a trip on the boat can sound like a sentence of boredom. But before you say, “I don’t want to go on the boat,” read through the ways my family has a blast on the water—even without movies or the Internet. Get Creative When you’re underway play games like Mancala, Risk or Stratego to stay entertained. If the captain and first mate are too busy to join in, read a book or sketch. Chart Your Course When your parents ask where you want to go, suggest a fun destination to visit with friends, or just as a family. One of my favorite places is Port Blakely. Port Blakely is a small cove on Bainbridge Island that is great for kayaking or puttering around in an inflatable. One side has cliffs and caves you can explore, or just look for wildlife by foot. On the other side, you can see a sunken ship that you can walk up to during low tide. Get Messy Further in is a smaller cove. In the summer you can swim in this water or have mud fights. In the fall, winter or spring seasons, you can walk around and play in the mud. Another place I love is Poulsbo, a  Scandinavian town safe enough for kids to explore on their own. On July 3, they have a festival with food-eating contests, vendors, music and fireworks. You’ll have plenty of time to get back for your home fireworks on the 4th. Another don’t miss is the bakery, where they have great doughnuts and cinnamon rolls. And stop by the local bookstores for a great onboard read. Have a Feast Last but not least is Port Ludlow. It has little islands to explore, a resort to stop by for ice cream and other necessities and a picnic area if you want to eat outside. Play horseshoes, or just relax on the grass near the lake. While I was at Port Ludlow I dug my first clams and picked oysters. Then we ate them for dinner. So tell your parents, or parents tell your kids, about these ideas for boating fun for everyone.

 

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