Philippe:
My vote would be for you to continue these posts. I have found it an interesting string. You have a very different boat than mine, and are in a different place with it, but I have enjoyed following your systematic approach. If I wasn't interested, I'd stop reading. I don't see how a post I didn't want to read would constitute an annoyance.
Living 400 statute miles from my boat, I don't get to take her out every week and play with things. So when I get over every 3-4 weeks I have to balance boat projects/learning projects/pleasure sailing. I probably tilt too far to the latter, and could do better by working in a little more of your systematic approach to the first two. On the other hand, IMHO, you might try working in a little more pleasure sailing. Plan a cruise somewhere for an overnight, anchor out, then sail back the next day. You can keep on working on things along the way, but making the journey the main focus could be a good thing. Helps in visualizing living on/with the boat for more than a day sail.
As far as getting off shore without a life raft, lots of us do it all the time; at least I do. Usually I'm on the sort of excursion (e.g., Catalina Island [25 or so nm from nearest land; 75 nm from my home port of San Diego]) for which I'll want the dinghy, so I have that in tow. Not a life raft, but better than nothing if the unthinkable should happen. Gives me some modicum of comfort. Last fall I did a trip out to Cortes Bank and back (100 nm off shore and back), and since I wasn't planning to stop anywhere, didn't tow the dink. I kind of missed it as a safety blanket, if only as a placebo. I think I'll tow it as a matter of course until I get my life raft re-certified.
Cheers,
Lee
s/v Morning Star
Valiant 32