Born sailors

[John Marston]

Strong finish this season with my 10 and 12 year old girls. I told them that they had to draw on everything that they'd learned in "all their years at sea" and sail from Deer Harbor to Friday Harbor, WA - I would be on board just to watch.

"Whaaaat?? We can't - "
"You've done everything, at one point or another," I said reassuringly. "Now you just have to put it all together in the right order."

The oldest was surprised how quickly the outboard pull started. They untied and shoved the boat away then motored into the wind. They raised the sails, killed the motor, and were quickly making their first tacks in about 10-15kt wind. Pretty soon it was obvious that they were in control. So much so they ordered me down below to make lunch, clean the galley and take a nap, which I did. Love the role reversal!

A few hours later, they were fighting strong tides and decided to lower the sails and fire up the motor to get into the guest dock at our destination, which all went smoothly. They even tied it up to the surprise of all the onlookers.

We celebrated with some great Mexican food at Dos Diablos. You wouldn't believe the smoked pepperocinis. Nice!

School is well underway now. The first weekend they had free, guess what they wanted to do? I think I've got my crew picked out for the next few years.

[Mark (Voodoo Acrobat)]

Good job, dad!! I wish I had started working on my kids much, much earlier.

With three adult sons I was hoping to have a home grown crew of my own, but they have other hobbies and interests. We'll see if they change their minds when I retire and start spending winters in the islands!