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Sailing, being on the water or on shore, yet not far from our boat is almost as vital to Pat as it is to have a strong heart and clear mind. I know it is just a part of who he is; yet a very viable factor to reckon with. The safe or fair weather sailing that I have participated in the past two years since we met has been fun, but not as important to me. Making the choice to be his ‘Best Mate' was a larger commitment than I thought it would be. Learning to let go of my choice of home on shore, for this two month journey, was a great effort. With Pat's patience, not taking the racer's path of getting the ultimate push from whatever wind available and allowing me to work it out in my time is working. Summer solstice has recently passed and with that Mother Nature has brought along the warmth of summer and stunningly long evenings, which has definitely helped me go through this process. The past couple of evenings, in Pirates Cove we sat in the cockpit with books in our laps and a vista that changed every time we looked up from the pages.
Last night, I hopped into my kayak to go ashore to call one of my daughters. The ride over was to be short. It just took me longer because I was easily distracted by stopping and talking to a great couple, Bill & Brenda. They are the third couple that I've spoken with who have given up their homes and the possessions that fill them; three-four sets of fine china and silver - downsizing to a trawler. Each had hopes of sharing time together, exploring our great Northwest waterways. Their companionway is always open to having their neighbors, although different daily or weekly, welcomed onboard for good conversations and perhaps a shared meal. There is a common thread between cruisers. I'm trying to figure what it is, this common thread; is it a curiosity to know what is around the next island? This equates to: intelligence, common sense, practicality, independence and self-reliance, and generosity with useful knowledge. I value each of these factors. Furthermore, one and all have stories to share! Everyone I talked to has a vast library, usually out of proportion to the size of their vessel which they are willing to share or swap. These adventurers come in every shape, size, and age. If there is a health issue it is disguised vitality. Perhaps it is the fresh air and activity involved with keeping the vessels afloat and cruising; either way it must be working for them. Or, it is as uncomplicated as a mindset to get out on the water and make the most of what one does have. The free gifts Nature has to offer the seafarer, if one is willing to stop and observe, are out there. It just takes time to stop the rush of daily routines to take what is offered us. Yesterday's gifts: hearing the cacophony of eagles, seagulls, and ravens as I cleaned out the cabin, the sea lion that showed a willingness to converse with me as I paddled around the cove while catching the last rays of sunlight, water that was as smooth as glass, and a sky that was painted with a few rose colored clouds that looked as if an Asian calligrapher had written a haiku across the sky then the wind gently spread it out. The water's surface reflected the image back. I can think of no material gift that could match these gifts I received. They would have been missed had I remained in my home. ...back to 48° North title page.
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