Hi, we’re David, Leanne, Rainier & Corban
We’re the family behind SV Blue Heeler—a busy, soccer-loving crew of four who decided that “someday” was actually right now.
Not long ago, we were living a typical land-based life in the Tri-Cities, Washington: packed schedules, constant driving, and never enough time together. Soccer fields, homework, practices, meals on the go—you know the drill. We loved our community, but we felt like time was always slipping through our fingers.
So we did something a little unconventional.
We sold the house, moved aboard a sailboat, and chose a slower, more intentional way of living—one that puts family first, without giving up learning, growth, adventure, or our love for sports.
Why We Share Our Story
Not everything aboard SV Blue Heeler is glamorous. We want to share our adventure with friends so you can see the highs and lows of changing up life. You don’t have to live on a sailboat to live differently. Sometimes it’s just about making room for what matters most.
Here, we share:
- Real-life homeschooling ideas that work for active kids
- Travel tips for families (big adventures and small ones)
- Favorite gear, books, and tools we genuinely use (yes, including Amazon finds)
- Thoughts on balancing sports, learning, and family time
- And honest stories about choosing togetherness over busyness
We believe kids thrive when they’re active, curious, challenged, and deeply connected to their people—and that families don’t need permission to do life their own way.
Meet the Crew
David
Captain
Chemical engineer by trade, jack-of-all-trades by nature. David is our captain and chief engineer, keeping Blue Heeler running smoothly while teaching science, mechanics, and pre-algebra along the way. If it can be built, fixed, optimized, or experimented on—he’s in.
Leanne
First Mate
The heart of the operation. Leanne runs the galley, navigation, provisioning, cleaning, scheduling, and social calendar—while also teaching grammar, history, and elementary math. She’s passionate about helping families create rhythms that support both kids and parents, not overwhelm them.
Rainier (11)
Crew
Our builder and creative problem-solver. Rainier designs custom LEGO Technic battle bots, stays connected with friends through Minecraft, and can’t wait for warmer waters so he can jump off the boom and swing from the mast.
Corban (8)
Crew
A constant reader and resident know-it-all (his words might differ). Corban loves learning facts, sharing them loudly, and dreaming about the Bahamas—especially for more kneeboarding time behind the dinghy.
So why follow along?
Even while we’re sailing, our roots remain firmly planted in the Tri-Cities. Leanne is the founder of Soccer Skills Academy, a recreational youth soccer league built to help kids stay active, confident, and joyful—without the burnout that often comes with over-scheduling.
This blog is an extension of that same philosophy:
Active kids. Strong families. Intentional time.
If our story inspires you to rethink your schedule, simplify your commitments, try a new learning approach, or just spend a little more time together—we’re so glad you’re here.
Welcome aboard 💙
—The SV Blue Heeler Crew