It is that time of year, the Azores high is pumping out a lovely trade wind breeze, and at anchor eventually you make peace with the conditions and get on with enjoying the environment. Cruising yachts are arriving and departing, making new friends and renewing old acquaintances.

Last night the breeze got into the high 30 knot range in the gusts. Today we are back down in the teens to low twenties. The bottom is firm sand, excellent holding, so those with adequate ground tackle are staying put. Most are periodically checking the anchor – it is amazing the messages a foot placed on chain will pick up.

Boats headed for marinas to the south leave here fully kitted up in their oilskins. It may be downwind, but with the sea running offshore it is going to be wet.

The more conservative cruisers will have a second anchor and rode ready, just in case.

We moved in closer to the beach this morning as the breeze was dropping. It’s much calmer. But by late afternoon move back to the suburbs with more space (and wind and waves).

Life goes on. The Interluders are practicing their music.

We are reading and now almost caught up with a variety of projects (maybe tomorrow will put finish to “the list”).

There is no danger of going hungry.

And while spectacular sunsets have been absent, stunning cloud formations are the afternoon rule.

Some of our neighbors are enjoying the enforced idleness.

Others are working on experimental anti-roll devices.

If you are anchored closer to shore the beach still beckons.

And the foot flyers are still working the neighborhood.

There are even a few boats out sailing.

Did we mention the wonderful cloud and sun combinations?

Of course someone is going to drag. This traditional French fishing smack went by so close we needed to pull in the starboard boom to avoid their bowsprit.

The four adults worked feverishly to crank in the heavy chain, link by link.

While this young lady steered the massive tiller with relieving tackles.

The fishermen are working.

And some of our neighbors are swimming in the warm bay.

Of course you do need to operate in some chop.

Late in the day a few folks will gather on the beach for a sundowner.

Others go visiting.

There are kite flyers.

Professional flyers.

And even more spectacular sunsets.

We’ve got friends coming over for a movie and popcorn in a little while, and then it is time to watch the election returns.