It was a long fifty yards from the back of the trailer to the edge of the water. A raising of the mast, leading of the lines, tying of the fenders, the boom in place, foresail raised, tie-downs removed. Yes, a long fifty yards.
Ah, but the first night! I spent the evening contemplating the sunset through the hatchway and miles traveled to get to this moment. I didn’t spend too much time on the miles to go, not now. That will come later. I recalled with deep gratitude the wonderful people so eager to help along the way. I’m filled with joy at their helpfulness and well wishes. Special thanks to the people of Two Harbors, MN for their hospitality while we readied the Cap’n Lem.
Dan, Mark, the Larrys, Forest and others all contributed to getting me in the water. So we sail tomorrow toward the Apostil Islands. Underway at last.
In the water at Two Harbors
Yeah! Very Exciting.
Seems an appropriate Melville Moby Dick quote (aside from the Christmas part):
“At last the anchor was up, the sails were set, and off we glided. It was a sharp, cold Christmas; and as the short northern day merged into night, we found ourselves almost broad upon the wintry ocean, whose freezing spray cased us in ice, as in polished armor.”
Hey Tommy! What a great website. I have really enjoyed being able to track your days as you progress on your journey. I know you are elated to actually live your lifetime dream.
It’s trying to be springtime here on the prairie. However we are not quit there yet. As you know “Sunny Sequim” just means fleeting sun breaks. However the Elk herd is out back again and all the other signs are there.
Are you able to receive images? There is a batch of new Andrew pics. I will forward if you want me to.
I hope you are keeping warm and feeling strong. I will write again soon. Love, Nancy
Tom, good luck. I look forward to watching you journey. Great website!!!
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Tommy —
I close my eyes and block out the buzzing world around me and try to get a sense of what this first night on the water might have been like for you … the mixture of excitement and wonder (what lies ahead of me in the miles and days to come?), anxiety and concern (have I really thought of everything), and reality (am I really here? am I really doing this?). All the planning and dreaming and experiences of your life have lead to THIS VERY moment. What an amazing personal feeling that must have been.
Caught wind of your adventure a little on the late side. Its May 23 and I’m going to stay up a bit late tonight and get caught up with your wonderful adventure. Best of luck to you. If you don’t mind, I’ll live my dream vicariously through your words and camera.