Number one on my list of 2006 highlights would have to be our new sailboat, Whimsy. This should come as no surprise to anyone who knows me.
We found Whimsy one day in August when Kelly and had a day off from parenting. We had just finished horseback riding at a nearby stables and were on our way to Lake Crabtree for some sailing. Parked on Leesville road was a fine looking sailboat. On a whim (heh) I stopped the car and we looked it over. A day or two later, and with the help of some sailboat-savvy friends, we bought it.
The practical side of me was in a royal battle with the fun side of me. I knew it wasn’t a big financial commitment, yet it was a big step to become a boatowner. I’m happy I decided to do it, though. It was an investment in happiness: one that is still paying off.
We took Whimsy out no less than six times in the first few months we owned it – an impressive count if you ask me. Our whole family loves to sail it, which is even better. It’s a great family activity since we’re all together and everyone can get involved if they choose to.
I was going through some videotapes a few weeks ago when I came upon footage of us out sailing. I watched transfixed as Kelly steered the boat through some impressive wind. It made me long for the warmer days ahead and a chance to get back on the water.
Once it does get warmer, we hope to do an overnight or two on the boat to get the feel for that. With that under our belts, we may consider doing a little weekender cruising, perhaps somewhere Down East. It would be fun to get the boat out around the coast, where the wind is stronger and more constant.
Its not an exaggeration to say the boat has changed my life. I’ve always loved to sail. Now that we’ve got a boat of our own I am happy to be out there whenever I can.
Sailing is artistry on water. I’m enjoying learning how to sail like the masters.
(Yes, this is the Mark-can’t-count entry. Somewhere I lost entries 2 and 8 from my list. Oh
well, better luck next year!)