Marlene A. Sassaman's Posts - SeaKnots2024-03-29T08:33:33ZMarlene A. Sassamanhttps://seaknots.ning.com/profile/MarleneASassamanhttps://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2518421123?profile=RESIZE_48X48&width=48&height=48&crop=1%3A1https://seaknots.ning.com/profiles/blog/feed?user=1391b2tzvqcxb&xn_auth=noSlowly, steady awaytag:seaknots.ning.com,2011-12-05:900123:BlogPost:1807412011-12-05T10:34:38.000ZMarlene A. Sassamanhttps://seaknots.ning.com/profile/MarleneASassaman
<p>Another chapter in my aging life closed yesterday about 2 pm when I seemingly nice gentleman bought my six year old Sunfish. It felt nice returning from the regatta knowing I could tend to other things besides washing the boat, fixing up little do dads and getting her ready for the next race. I grew tired of dragging her off the hill at the yacht club. I grew tired of sailing upwind with no competition within 100 yards after rounding the first mark. Well, certainly after the leeward mark the…</p>
<p>Another chapter in my aging life closed yesterday about 2 pm when I seemingly nice gentleman bought my six year old Sunfish. It felt nice returning from the regatta knowing I could tend to other things besides washing the boat, fixing up little do dads and getting her ready for the next race. I grew tired of dragging her off the hill at the yacht club. I grew tired of sailing upwind with no competition within 100 yards after rounding the first mark. Well, certainly after the leeward mark the boats would spread out. It was a good lesson in concentration and indeed my starts at all races improved dramatically. On the whole it became tiresome.</p>
<p>Wanting to get SPRAY ready for our cruise to New York entices me to host another garage sale this Saturday. There is my sentimentally attached Hobie 14, Monica's bicycle, assorted household items, more tools and who knows what else. My neighbors son may buy the sectional sofa. It is a scary world I am entering but not as scary as an old friend's who faces 5 years in federal prison....But that's his story.</p>
<p>Sail safely sea knot friends,</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>Evolution versus Revolutiontag:seaknots.ning.com,2011-12-01:900123:BlogPost:1804352011-12-01T00:45:09.000ZMarlene A. Sassamanhttps://seaknots.ning.com/profile/MarleneASassaman
<p>Years ago a sailing friend who specializes in building hydrofoils reminded a group of us that change only takes place via revolution or evolution. This was related to the development of such performance boats as high speed hydrofoil sailboats.It also applies to life. Take for instance the sudden change to a spouse left alone by his or her mate's untimely death. Suddenly decisions have to be made which may cause major change; selling a house, moving in with other family members, getting a…</p>
<p>Years ago a sailing friend who specializes in building hydrofoils reminded a group of us that change only takes place via revolution or evolution. This was related to the development of such performance boats as high speed hydrofoil sailboats.It also applies to life. Take for instance the sudden change to a spouse left alone by his or her mate's untimely death. Suddenly decisions have to be made which may cause major change; selling a house, moving in with other family members, getting a job, or simply getting used to coming home to an empty house.</p>
<p>An evolutionary life change is more like my transition from living in a comfy, safe, beach town. Every day I make progress to leave my solidly built concrete adobe with a 50 year warranted metal roof, low electrical bills,with all the amenties within one square mile. Five days a week, for at least one hour after work is spent reading, cleaning, exploring some aspect of my Marples 35 tri. After 30 years of racing small boats nearly every week-end, I admitted to selling my sunfish. Within weeks I will concede with selling my beloved Hobie 14. Sure, I'll miss a big regatta this week-end. But I only have so much money to spend. It's time to seriously focus on the big goal, the lifelong dream. No more racing around lakes and rivers and even along Florida's coast. Nope, every thing I do is now on the conveyor belt transforming me. rom the security of a career as a school counselor, to that of a free lance sailor, hoping to make it safely around.</p>
<p> </p>When all else fails....tag:seaknots.ning.com,2011-11-30:900123:BlogPost:1803122011-11-30T12:08:28.000ZMarlene A. Sassamanhttps://seaknots.ning.com/profile/MarleneASassaman
<p>Reading the Yanmar Diesel Manual was overwhelming at first. I scanned each page of it a few months back as I transitioned it into a looseleaf notebook. Important pages, like what type of oil to use and the maintenance checklist were put in a plastic sleeve. During my daily boat check on Monday I was too tired to take on any real tasks, like sanding the eyebrow the protects the gps in the cockpit, I slithered below to sit at the galley table. After gazing out the stern castle window, which…</p>
<p>Reading the Yanmar Diesel Manual was overwhelming at first. I scanned each page of it a few months back as I transitioned it into a looseleaf notebook. Important pages, like what type of oil to use and the maintenance checklist were put in a plastic sleeve. During my daily boat check on Monday I was too tired to take on any real tasks, like sanding the eyebrow the protects the gps in the cockpit, I slithered below to sit at the galley table. After gazing out the stern castle window, which reminded me that it needed replacement, I turned toward my proud little library.</p>
<p>"Aha," I signed. "The least I could do was to pick up the biggest book and browse. At first the details on each page confusing. The diagrams and terms were unfamiliar. Perseverance, though found me reading word for word about starting the engine. Then, I realized the 3 or 4 pages that mesmorized me were for a brand new engine. My curiosity was aroused so I thumbed through the book. After ten minutes or so I found the page with the heading, 'Starting Your Diesel.' Again I was confused about a part that I can't think of the proper name for right now. It's just a metal thing a ma jig that juts out from the side of the wheel house. If you pull it out the engine will stay in neutral while you rev it up. In short, one is supposed to pull out the little metal thing a ma jig which I guess works like a choke.</p>
<p>Well, what do you know? When I went back on deck, pulled the metal thing a ma jig, moved the throttle up a notch or two and walla kazam, yippity do, my little Yanmar 2GM immediately started. Hm,,,,,,back home writing this I suddenly have a recollection of Captain Kirk explaining this to me the very first time he showed me how to start the engine when we originally surveyed the boat.</p>
<p>Ay,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,that age old adage, , , ,</p>
<p> </p>Alternator/battery ???????/tag:seaknots.ning.com,2011-11-24:900123:BlogPost:1798962011-11-24T00:32:17.000ZMarlene A. Sassamanhttps://seaknots.ning.com/profile/MarleneASassaman
<p>Here comes another lesson to learn about diesels. Maybe I should keep a log of each thing I learn....well that's another blog entry. For now my concern is that the last two times, about a week apart, that I started up my Danny Diesel, 2 gm yanmar she made that grinding kind of sound that makes you say, "Come on baby, you can start!" Someone told me yesterday that a diesel should start up right away. So, do I check the battery, the alternator, or what?????</p>
<p>I had a guy look at my wiring…</p>
<p>Here comes another lesson to learn about diesels. Maybe I should keep a log of each thing I learn....well that's another blog entry. For now my concern is that the last two times, about a week apart, that I started up my Danny Diesel, 2 gm yanmar she made that grinding kind of sound that makes you say, "Come on baby, you can start!" Someone told me yesterday that a diesel should start up right away. So, do I check the battery, the alternator, or what?????</p>
<p>I had a guy look at my wiring and maybe should have him come back because I'm still confused about which battery to use for the starter. Anyway, I hope you all have a happy Thanksgiving.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Know that of all the things I am thankful for, sharing this blog is among them. Sea Knots has kept me inspired and informed.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>Making sailors our of friends,,,,,,,,tag:seaknots.ning.com,2011-11-17:900123:BlogPost:1789142011-11-17T11:27:47.000ZMarlene A. Sassamanhttps://seaknots.ning.com/profile/MarleneASassaman
<p>Several times in the past month I read this statement. Not sure where or who wrote it, but I wish I would remember it and quit wasting time. It goes something like this:</p>
<p> </p>
<p><span class="font-size-4"><em> It is easier to make friends with sailors than to make friends into sailors.</em></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Several times in the past month I read this statement. Not sure where or who wrote it, but I wish I would remember it and quit wasting time. It goes something like this:</p>
<p> </p>
<p><span class="font-size-4"><em> It is easier to make friends with sailors than to make friends into sailors.</em></span></p>
<p> </p>GAM at Eau Gallietag:seaknots.ning.com,2011-11-13:900123:BlogPost:1783992011-11-13T00:00:36.000ZMarlene A. Sassamanhttps://seaknots.ning.com/profile/MarleneASassaman
<p>This week-ends' GAM sponsored by the 7 Seas Cruising Association had a mediocre attendance. The two GAMS I attended during the past 4 or 5 years had many more attendees, vendors and speakers/seminars. Guess everyone's budgets are low. Or, perhaps, it's just the same old thing.</p>
<p> On the one hand cruising, with all its technological/electronic gadgets, has made sailing safer. Perhaps, for some it has lost its appeal. Certainly the median age is within the realm of being considered…</p>
<p>This week-ends' GAM sponsored by the 7 Seas Cruising Association had a mediocre attendance. The two GAMS I attended during the past 4 or 5 years had many more attendees, vendors and speakers/seminars. Guess everyone's budgets are low. Or, perhaps, it's just the same old thing.</p>
<p> On the one hand cruising, with all its technological/electronic gadgets, has made sailing safer. Perhaps, for some it has lost its appeal. Certainly the median age is within the realm of being considered another pacemakers club. The local yacht clubs can attest to that. Rarely is someone younger than 40 spotted amongst the crowd. For an aging widow this is disappointing.</p>
<p>Other than that Lee ____________ weather seminar promises to be informative. Although at today's general introduction to the more in depth course being offered tomorrow morning, he spoke so fast it seemed more of a review for those in the know than an overview for us neophytes. It was inspiring though as I raced home this evening to check out the new graphics on the National Weather Service's website. Lee also convinced me to start keeping a daily weather chart of my own; always looking for the 96 hour forecast. Never put to sea without knowing the forecast for the next four days. That I have in my brain.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Also, for my offshore run to and from New York Harbor this coming June, I promise to go outside only with wave heights predicted to be 3 - 4 feet and winds up to 15. Afterall Lee drove home the possibility that despite the best forecasting available conditions could always move into deeper troughs with higher winds. So, with a sail safe motto, I continue to learn and continue to make modifications to my Marples 35. I'll save those for another entry.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Happy days,</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>Outrig.comtag:seaknots.ning.com,2011-11-09:900123:BlogPost:1781832011-11-09T03:25:07.000ZMarlene A. Sassamanhttps://seaknots.ning.com/profile/MarleneASassaman
<p>After an encouraing phone conference with Jim Brown, designer and author, I am compelled to suggest you take the time to visit his website:</p>
<p>outrig.com</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>After an encouraing phone conference with Jim Brown, designer and author, I am compelled to suggest you take the time to visit his website:</p>
<p>outrig.com</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>An Epic Encountertag:seaknots.ning.com,2011-11-04:900123:BlogPost:1782862011-11-04T08:19:33.000ZMarlene A. Sassamanhttps://seaknots.ning.com/profile/MarleneASassaman
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2539809173?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" height="158" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2539809173?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="225"></img> It</a> isn't every day two pioneers in the multihull faction have dinner together. So it was last Monday when Jim Brown on the left and Sam Bradfield had the opportunity to swap stories of their involvement over the past 50 years. Jim gets kudos from his Searunner line of trimarans while Sam boasts advances in the world of hydrofoils. Sam's latest design has been recently…</p>
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2539809173?profile=original"><img height="158" width="225" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2539809173?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" class="align-full"/>It</a> isn't every day two pioneers in the multihull faction have dinner together. So it was last Monday when Jim Brown on the left and Sam Bradfield had the opportunity to swap stories of their involvement over the past 50 years. Jim gets kudos from his Searunner line of trimarans while Sam boasts advances in the world of hydrofoils. Sam's latest design has been recently launched and is undergoing sea trials. A contrast in their protege's can be compared with a quick internet search. Jim's videos can also be viewed at <a href="http://www.outrig.org">www.outrig.org</a>.</p>
<p>Lucky me to have been fortunate to have sailed on Sam's early designs when he was using old Hobie 16s as a prototype for his more recent developments. While my intent was too simply have fun on a fast boat, Sam's scrutiny of every aspect of his designs has led him to become a respected designer in the world of tri hulled hydrofoils. At 94 years Sam shows no sign of relinguishing his drive for designing a state of the art foiler.</p>
<p>While Sam designs boats for speed Jim has made his niche in the cruising world. His sturdy, user friendly, comfortable trimarans have a reputation for seaworthiness. His book, "The Case for the Cruising Trimaran" is a must read for anyone contemplating their own offshore boat. Jim also worked with John Marples, who designed my recently purchased 35 foot tri.</p>
<p>The common thread between these two distinguished designers is their perseverance. Who can deny that trimarans and hydrofoils are not exactly the vision of the traditional yachting world? No doubt they have long tired of the synics.If you are not yet familiar with these guys do a quick google search and open up your world............... </p>Tomorrow is here.tag:seaknots.ning.com,2011-11-01:900123:BlogPost:1781002011-11-01T10:38:09.000ZMarlene A. Sassamanhttps://seaknots.ning.com/profile/MarleneASassaman
<p>Tomorrow is here; I have my food diary ready to carry with me and the reality of how attached I have become to my many possessions. For the cirumnavigation and certainly for my life after I can't take sailboards, snowboards, murals, paintings, life size pictures, flower vases, office furniture, my custom cherry wood bedroom suite, faux suede big chair, total gym, weights, recumbent bicycle, beach cruiser, dolls, and oh dear I can't leave my 62 year old Teddy Bear . . .</p>
<p>Whew, this is…</p>
<p>Tomorrow is here; I have my food diary ready to carry with me and the reality of how attached I have become to my many possessions. For the cirumnavigation and certainly for my life after I can't take sailboards, snowboards, murals, paintings, life size pictures, flower vases, office furniture, my custom cherry wood bedroom suite, faux suede big chair, total gym, weights, recumbent bicycle, beach cruiser, dolls, and oh dear I can't leave my 62 year old Teddy Bear . . .</p>
<p>Whew, this is way too stressful. So, how about I go back to the to do list. The property manager is certain my house will rent so after I check some of hisreferences I can at least cross off the selection of a property manager. Oh, here's something I need to add. I need to save all my blogs,,,,,I'll buy a thumb drive just for my blogs; those darn dvd or cd disks just don't work for me. Speaking of work I better get going. Gotta greet the kids with a smile when they disembark the school bus to begin another day of readin', ritin', rithmetic.</p>Candy overdose....tag:seaknots.ning.com,2011-11-01:900123:BlogPost:1782012011-11-01T02:59:23.000ZMarlene A. Sassamanhttps://seaknots.ning.com/profile/MarleneASassaman
<p>UUUUUUUUUUGGGGGGGGGG, it's just too much camraderie with kids, friends, and neighbors. When will it end? I have a round the world cruise to plan. I have excess fat to remove. I have organizing that needs to be organized.I have a boat to spiff up, another boat to sell (boo hoo and bye bye Hobie 14) .... and cute little sunifsh is on her way out as well. I have a women's team that may default, a job I don't want to wake up for and I hate way too much candy.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Tomorrow will begin…</p>
<p>UUUUUUUUUUGGGGGGGGGG, it's just too much camraderie with kids, friends, and neighbors. When will it end? I have a round the world cruise to plan. I have excess fat to remove. I have organizing that needs to be organized.I have a boat to spiff up, another boat to sell (boo hoo and bye bye Hobie 14) .... and cute little sunifsh is on her way out as well. I have a women's team that may default, a job I don't want to wake up for and I hate way too much candy.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Tomorrow will begin anew. But, there's a new website to explore especially if you crave sailing flat , , ,</p>
<p>check out outrig.com. It is put together by Jim Brown with lots of tales from the past 50 years.</p>Once again Success Follows Failuretag:seaknots.ning.com,2011-10-25:900123:BlogPost:1776022011-10-25T01:15:50.000ZMarlene A. Sassamanhttps://seaknots.ning.com/profile/MarleneASassaman
<p>After days of trying to get my blog log in correct I finally succeeded. What annoys me is that I finally succeeded after admitting my failed attempts to a fellow sailing friend and blogger. At least I answered her inquiry about writing up my adventure purchasing a Marples 35 foot tri in the Rio Dulce.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>I guess with my log in back in order I'm ready to tell my story. Just to give you a taste, my journey actually culminated this afternoon while sailing with Jim Brown. If you…</p>
<p>After days of trying to get my blog log in correct I finally succeeded. What annoys me is that I finally succeeded after admitting my failed attempts to a fellow sailing friend and blogger. At least I answered her inquiry about writing up my adventure purchasing a Marples 35 foot tri in the Rio Dulce.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>I guess with my log in back in order I'm ready to tell my story. Just to give you a taste, my journey actually culminated this afternoon while sailing with Jim Brown. If you aren't familiar with Jim then I suggest you look up his book, "A Case for the Cruising Trimaran." It should be a mandatory read before purchasing a cruising book. His two volume memoirs is written in a more friendly, social tone with his wry sense of humor adding levity to his non-conforming lifestyle.</p>
<p>If you do a search for "Marples 35 Trimaran for Sale" you will find a picture and video of my boat. At least that should hold you over until I take the time to write a more intriguing story of how I met an otherwise total stranger in the Atlanta airport. We then flew to Guatemala, rode the 5 hour bus to the Rio Dulce followed by 5 pleasant days at the Hotel Catamaran.</p>
<p>Oo-la-la or not, do stay tuned.....</p>My First Song,,,,or Has my Head Been Too Long in the Bilgetag:seaknots.ning.com,2011-09-02:900123:BlogPost:1716972011-09-02T03:30:15.000ZMarlene A. Sassamanhttps://seaknots.ning.com/profile/MarleneASassaman
<p>From my corny brain to yours (if you have one), just sing along to the tune of Zipity, Do Dah, Zippity Yea,</p>
<p>Zippity Do Day Zippity Yea</p>
<p>I changed the oil in my Yanmar today,</p>
<p>Plenty of grease in my fingernails</p>
<p>Ickity, yuckity, Grossly I say</p>
<p>Oh Mr. Builder of my tri</p>
<p>Why did you put the filter on the port side?</p>
<p>Scrapedee scratchee, me knuckles are sore,</p>
<p>Dirty and tired, the lesson today</p>
<p>On changing oil, was a success, but even the…</p>
<p>From my corny brain to yours (if you have one), just sing along to the tune of Zipity, Do Dah, Zippity Yea,</p>
<p>Zippity Do Day Zippity Yea</p>
<p>I changed the oil in my Yanmar today,</p>
<p>Plenty of grease in my fingernails</p>
<p>Ickity, yuckity, Grossly I say</p>
<p>Oh Mr. Builder of my tri</p>
<p>Why did you put the filter on the port side?</p>
<p>Scrapedee scratchee, me knuckles are sore,</p>
<p>Dirty and tired, the lesson today</p>
<p>On changing oil, was a success, but even the clean stuff leaves quite a mess........</p>
<p>Zippity do dah, zippity YEA!</p>
<p> </p>Weirdtag:seaknots.ning.com,2011-08-31:900123:BlogPost:1716062011-08-31T01:14:03.000ZMarlene A. Sassamanhttps://seaknots.ning.com/profile/MarleneASassaman
<p>Deciding to update my profile and change the overall impact of my blog, I spent two hours discovering my new entries got lost in cyber space. Oh dear, , , ,</p>
<p>Anyway, I think I need a blog coach, you know someone who can help me put some pizazz in my writing; someone who can help me put inspiration in my writing, someone who can help me turn my experience, determination, and passion for wmaking my dream a reality into something that will have meaning and motivation for…</p>
<p>Deciding to update my profile and change the overall impact of my blog, I spent two hours discovering my new entries got lost in cyber space. Oh dear, , , ,</p>
<p>Anyway, I think I need a blog coach, you know someone who can help me put some pizazz in my writing; someone who can help me put inspiration in my writing, someone who can help me turn my experience, determination, and passion for wmaking my dream a reality into something that will have meaning and motivation for others.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Any and all ideas welcome.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>Learning and re-learningtag:seaknots.ning.com,2011-08-18:900123:BlogPost:1707922011-08-18T22:11:35.000ZMarlene A. Sassamanhttps://seaknots.ning.com/profile/MarleneASassaman
<p>As I look forward to learning how to change the oil in my inboard diesel, I had to re-learn the importance of being upfront and honest. It's one thing to tell the truth, it's another thing to take the initiative to tell someone something they might not want to hear. For example, the lasttime I boarrowed a friend's sailboat the outboard was not very cooperative. It was easy for me to discount any mechanical problem and simply blame myself for not pulling the cord with enough torque. After 3…</p>
<p>As I look forward to learning how to change the oil in my inboard diesel, I had to re-learn the importance of being upfront and honest. It's one thing to tell the truth, it's another thing to take the initiative to tell someone something they might not want to hear. For example, the lasttime I boarrowed a friend's sailboat the outboard was not very cooperative. It was easy for me to discount any mechanical problem and simply blame myself for not pulling the cord with enough torque. After 3 or 4 quick pulls I told the crew to put the motor below. The approach to the dock was downwind at about 3 knots. Why mess with the iron genny when we were suave enough to sail in.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Needless to say the next time the owner took the boat out the motor wouldn't work properly. I feel guilty and embarrassed. Hopefully, my inconsideration will be excused. Certainly, I should have called the owner as soon as the boat was secured at the dock to tell him I had challengeswith the motor. At least when he took the boat out for a late evening sail he would not have been confronted with a dead motor , , ,</p>
<p> </p>
<p>On a good note I am learning to change the oil on my yanmar tomorrow night. I like learning new things. Empowering myself toward more independence as a cruising sailor makes me proud, albeit dirty 'n greasy.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>That's all for now. , , , ,</p>Superstitious -- NOTtag:seaknots.ning.com,2011-08-08:900123:BlogPost:1692292011-08-08T21:42:49.000ZMarlene A. Sassamanhttps://seaknots.ning.com/profile/MarleneASassaman
<p>Is it really bad luck to change a boat's name? Please send me your thoughts. Thanks,</p>
<p>Is it really bad luck to change a boat's name? Please send me your thoughts. Thanks,</p>Crossing Something Else of the Listtag:seaknots.ning.com,2011-08-05:900123:BlogPost:1685232011-08-05T02:04:05.000ZMarlene A. Sassamanhttps://seaknots.ning.com/profile/MarleneASassaman
<p>Doesn't it feel good to take something off the endless list? Now that I can say I did a 3 week open water voyage I am enthralled with myself. Tonight I saw at a meeting for an upcoming annual Mermaid Regatta. The competition will be stiff and I don't have the energy to coach my crew. I'm preoccuppied and tired of motivating others. So, I'll take this one on the chin. Gather up who I can and give it my all. I'll concentrate on driving the boat, having the boat in decent working order, and…</p>
<p>Doesn't it feel good to take something off the endless list? Now that I can say I did a 3 week open water voyage I am enthralled with myself. Tonight I saw at a meeting for an upcoming annual Mermaid Regatta. The competition will be stiff and I don't have the energy to coach my crew. I'm preoccuppied and tired of motivating others. So, I'll take this one on the chin. Gather up who I can and give it my all. I'll concentrate on driving the boat, having the boat in decent working order, and leaving the crew to do their jobs well.</p>
<p>In the meantime, I have to look after SPRAY<span class="font-size-1">3. We might be getting back weather Saturday. I'm hoping they cancel this week's women's race so I can tend to my writing, my photographs and getting my personal paperwork in order. Oh well, more on my great adventure. For now, I may have found a writing coach and I want to have her review my tales with the hopes of getting them published......</span></p>
<p><span class="font-size-1"> </span></p>
<p><span class="font-size-1">I did tell ya'll that I bought a Marples 35, trimaran,,,,, you can google Marples 35 for sale and read all about the boat,,,,,,,,,,,Chat soon,</span></p>Crossing Something Else off the Listtag:seaknots.ning.com,2011-08-05:900123:BlogPost:1689912011-08-05T02:00:00.000ZMarlene A. Sassamanhttps://seaknots.ning.com/profile/MarleneASassaman
<p>Doesn't it feel good to take something off the endless list? Now that I can say I did a 3 week open water voyage I am enthralled with myself. Tonight I saw at a meeting for an upcoming annual Mermaid Regatta. The competition will be stiff and I don't have the energy to coach my crew. I'm preoccuppied and tired of motivating others. So, I'll take this one on the chin. Gather up who I can and give it my all. I'll concentrate on driving the boat, having the boat in decent working order, and…</p>
<p>Doesn't it feel good to take something off the endless list? Now that I can say I did a 3 week open water voyage I am enthralled with myself. Tonight I saw at a meeting for an upcoming annual Mermaid Regatta. The competition will be stiff and I don't have the energy to coach my crew. I'm preoccuppied and tired of motivating others. So, I'll take this one on the chin. Gather up who I can and give it my all. I'll concentrate on driving the boat, having the boat in decent working order, and leaving the crew to do their jobs well.</p>
<p>In the meantime, I have to look after SPRAY<span class="font-size-1">3. We might be getting back weather Saturday. I'm hoping they cancel this week's women's race so I can tend to my writing, my photographs and getting my personal paperwork in order. Oh well, more on my great adventure. For now, I may have found a writing coach and I want to have her review my tales with the hopes of getting them published......</span></p>
<p><span class="font-size-1"> </span></p>
<p><span class="font-size-1">I did tell ya'll that I bought a Marples 35, trimaran,,,,, you can google Marples 35 for sale and read all about the boat,,,,,,,,,,,Chat soon,</span></p>
<p><span class="font-size-1"> </span></p>
<p><span class="font-size-1"><a target="_blank" href="http://http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-Wemfa9Q20">http://http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-Wemfa9Q20</a></span></p>Ay, the good lifetag:seaknots.ning.com,2011-07-03:900123:BlogPost:1660542011-07-03T07:48:35.000ZMarlene A. Sassamanhttps://seaknots.ning.com/profile/MarleneASassaman
<p>It has been said if you make <strong>enough</strong> money to require a payment to Uncle Sam, then you are in <strong>good</strong> shape. Put the good with enough and you have the name of the boat I just purchased: Good Enough. Yipe, I am the proud owner of a Marples 35 wood/epoxy constant camber tri..... After a successful sail home from the Rio Dulce, she'll be renamed SPRAY <span class="font-size-1">3 <span class="font-size-2">(same as my Corsair was named).…</span></span></p>
<p></p>
<p>It has been said if you make <strong>enough</strong> money to require a payment to Uncle Sam, then you are in <strong>good</strong> shape. Put the good with enough and you have the name of the boat I just purchased: Good Enough. Yipe, I am the proud owner of a Marples 35 wood/epoxy constant camber tri..... After a successful sail home from the Rio Dulce, she'll be renamed SPRAY <span class="font-size-1">3 <span class="font-size-2">(same as my Corsair was named).</span></span></p>
<p><span class="font-size-1"><span class="font-size-2">SPRAY <span class="font-size-1">3 represents my admiration for Joshua Slocum, the love of my husband who needed a mathematical enumeration (3, as in cubed) which represents: 3 hulls, 3 of my favorite type boats owned (Hobies, Supercats, and Corsair 28), my 3 loves (Danny, my dad and everyone else).</span></span></span></p>
<p><span class="font-size-1"><span class="font-size-2"><span class="font-size-1">Not much else to say, I'm off to Guatemala with Captain Kirk, his son and my girlfriend Karen. Pray the next wave of tropical depressions abate until we're safely home. Current float plan is to leave Rio Dulce on Saturday, July 8 and head north around the west side of Cuba then north east with a final run up the east coast of Florida, entering at Ft. Pierce for the last day's sail to our home dock in Palm Bay, Florida. Despite the fact that another friend Maryanne refers to the accomodations as resembling the SS Minnow, let's hope this is not a 3 hour tour.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span class="font-size-1"><span class="font-size-2"><span class="font-size-1"> </span></span></span></p>
<p><span class="font-size-1"><span class="font-size-2"><span class="font-size-1"> </span></span></span></p>Almost there, thanks to your responsetag:seaknots.ning.com,2011-06-25:900123:BlogPost:1662902011-06-25T21:17:08.000ZMarlene A. Sassamanhttps://seaknots.ning.com/profile/MarleneASassaman
<p>Thanks to Russell, Steve, Sail Dancer, Mark and Karen for your encouraging words. Now that I decided to buy the boat the challenge is finding a 3rd crew to assist with sailing her home. Time is short as I need to get plane reservations at a reasonable rate and have 'er home by August 2. There is always a challenge, always an obstacle to overcome and always a reason to change one's mind. Been trying to hook up with Suky but the computer, Sea Knots, and I are also having our communication…</p>
<p>Thanks to Russell, Steve, Sail Dancer, Mark and Karen for your encouraging words. Now that I decided to buy the boat the challenge is finding a 3rd crew to assist with sailing her home. Time is short as I need to get plane reservations at a reasonable rate and have 'er home by August 2. There is always a challenge, always an obstacle to overcome and always a reason to change one's mind. Been trying to hook up with Suky but the computer, Sea Knots, and I are also having our communication problems.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Blogging with Sea Knotters has proven to be an excellent way to get feedback; nice hearing from folks with similar and most times more experience. What will happen next is anyone's guess. I am looking for a 3rd party to help with the delivery from Guatamala to Florida, leaving the Rio Dolce on or as close to July 4th as possible. If you are interested send me your resume at <a href="mailto:sassythesailor@gmail.com">sassythesailor@gmail.com</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>SailingatSixty -- an interesting task at an interesting age</p>
<p> </p>Hello, is anybody out there???tag:seaknots.ning.com,2011-06-21:900123:BlogPost:1659882011-06-21T06:00:59.000ZMarlene A. Sassamanhttps://seaknots.ning.com/profile/MarleneASassaman
<p>Not one person responded to my question about wood/epoxy boats. So, on my own, with some research and a conference with my boat mentor, along with that good old woman's intuition the decision has been made. Tomorrow, I will make a reasonable offer on the trimaran of my dream.Okay, so she needs some prettying up, but I believe she is a secure well made beast that isn't simply good enough, rather she is going to complement SPRAY. A cross between my Corsair, SPRAY, and Slocum's cruiser, this…</p>
<p>Not one person responded to my question about wood/epoxy boats. So, on my own, with some research and a conference with my boat mentor, along with that good old woman's intuition the decision has been made. Tomorrow, I will make a reasonable offer on the trimaran of my dream.Okay, so she needs some prettying up, but I believe she is a secure well made beast that isn't simply good enough, rather she is going to complement SPRAY. A cross between my Corsair, SPRAY, and Slocum's cruiser, this SPRAY will take me places I've dreamt about.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>It is a scary proposition, but I believe I can afford it. I'm 63 years old, I have to buy this boat now. It is capable of crossing oceans as good as any; it has an incredible history. It's about a legendary designer and his best sailing mate. During this past month I've come to know both of this lads and am incredibly excited. For the moment I wish it wasn't 1:55 am so I can call the current owner, then call his bud and finally announce it to the world. Hm, I better start with plane fares.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>I have a pilot friend who mentioned cheap flight to Belize. Wonder how I get from Belize to Rio Duclce, Well, I beter quit blogging and get on the internet to find out the best route. Of course, I'll e-mail my Guatamalan friend Karen to let her know right away. I know the girls want to meet me in Key West for the last hoorah home. This is the most exciting adventure. Thanks to Danny for taking me out through the surf, across the gulf stream, and on endless moon light sails.</p>
<p>Sure, he'd frown on my dreams to solo sail, but to sail back from Rio Dulce with him, he'd like that. I miss him and will proudly display his Fury pictures on the wall in a prominent spot in her beautiful home. I do miss him. So, while I regret no one commented about the wood/epoxy strengths and weaknesses, I am proud to announce my intent to purchase this well made, legendary trimaran. :-) </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>My</p>Wood/epoxytag:seaknots.ning.com,2011-06-18:900123:BlogPost:1657932011-06-18T22:42:22.000ZMarlene A. Sassamanhttps://seaknots.ning.com/profile/MarleneASassaman
Wood/epoxy boats, what are your thoughts????????
Wood/epoxy boats, what are your thoughts????????Cold Feettag:seaknots.ning.com,2011-06-09:900123:BlogPost:1651172011-06-09T18:19:31.000ZMarlene A. Sassamanhttps://seaknots.ning.com/profile/MarleneASassaman
<p>Oh dear, with this dern cold lingering another day my feet are awful chilly. Is it because of the reality of how incapacatated one becomes when hit with flu like symptoms. Just like seasickness that quesy stomach, accompanied with a weird headache and inability to keep food or drink flowing through the digestive tract took control of me yesterday. I was able to function, albiet laborously with the cold symptoms. When my stomach got quesy though, my ability to focus on reading, watching tv or…</p>
<p>Oh dear, with this dern cold lingering another day my feet are awful chilly. Is it because of the reality of how incapacatated one becomes when hit with flu like symptoms. Just like seasickness that quesy stomach, accompanied with a weird headache and inability to keep food or drink flowing through the digestive tract took control of me yesterday. I was able to function, albiet laborously with the cold symptoms. When my stomach got quesy though, my ability to focus on reading, watching tv or even talking on the phone became blurred and intolerable. So, what happens when I set out across the sea alone and seasickness rears its ugly head.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>My husband warned me about this but I poo-poo his notion saying I would find a cure. Now, faced with the committment to buy a boat I think will meet my needs my cold feet are shivering beneath my chicken legs. Please tell me there is a cure for seasickness. I need a remedy that won't put me to sleep.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Also, assistance with negotiating a good deal would be helpful. I only found one flaw with the boat that I believe is fixable. The other challenge is the cost of bringing the boat from Central America to Florida. There is a broker involved for the seller and I mentioned to him today that I would be ready to negotiate tomorrow (I'm still not feeling well today and want to be at my best when we start discussing the big bucks.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>In the meantime, I'll research seasickness cures, best skills for negotiation, and put a blanket around my toes to warm them up! </p>To buy or not to buy, that is the challenge...tag:seaknots.ning.com,2011-06-08:900123:BlogPost:1650052011-06-08T11:13:24.000ZMarlene A. Sassamanhttps://seaknots.ning.com/profile/MarleneASassaman
<p>Back from the Catamaran Hotel in Rio Dolce, Guatamala, I keep asking myself, "Is this the right boat?, Is this really what I want?"</p>
<p>The cockpit seemed so confining, yet secure. The sails are in good condition, yet the main may need some sort of widget so when the sail comes down all of the little slides don't come out of the mast. The boat sailed a steady course yet we only had 5 - 8 knots to test her in. The brow over the gps on the port side of the helm has some cracks and is soft,…</p>
<p>Back from the Catamaran Hotel in Rio Dolce, Guatamala, I keep asking myself, "Is this the right boat?, Is this really what I want?"</p>
<p>The cockpit seemed so confining, yet secure. The sails are in good condition, yet the main may need some sort of widget so when the sail comes down all of the little slides don't come out of the mast. The boat sailed a steady course yet we only had 5 - 8 knots to test her in. The brow over the gps on the port side of the helm has some cracks and is soft, yet it might only be a small localized section. The concern is whether or not water has gotten into other parts of the boat. Deck has black specs that may be covered with fresh paint. The interior is well laid out, roomy brightly painted white. None of the hatches leak though the one on the bow needs replacing. Plenty of anchors on board; the auto helm belt kept slipping so it needs work.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Overall, my impression is that this is a secure well made, sturdy, ready to go sailing boat. It has the inboard diesel I say I want with easy access on both sides. I am thinking I should buy it, so I have to go and figure out my true finances. This is going to be a huge undertaking, the least of which is bringing the boat back up here whilst dodging summer hurricanes. I may have to pay a captain.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Any and all solo sailors are encouraged to contact me with words of wisdom, especially about dealing with 'keeping a watch', knowing when to sleep, how to schedule sleep breaks, and don't forget to send me your cures for seasickness. What scares me is getting this boat only to find out I am always sea sick.........Ugggggggggggg,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,</p>
<p> </p>
<p>To summarize, the boat is in Guatamala and needs to be brought up here to Palm Bay. That in itself will be quite an undertaking. Can I pull this off? Do I really want to? I don't know if I should buy this boat or not. It will take up all my earnings......One thing is for sure, the longer I sit here rambling the less progress toward making a sound decision I will make. So, I'll stop for now.</p>Rio Dolce y el Hotel de Catamarantag:seaknots.ning.com,2011-05-29:900123:BlogPost:1648932011-05-29T11:16:18.000ZMarlene A. Sassamanhttps://seaknots.ning.com/profile/MarleneASassaman
<p>Pardon my spanish, the first website link is where I will be in two days. The second website is what I will be surveying as my potential blue water cruiser.</p>
<p>Check out the location section of the Hotel Catamaran's website where "Good Enough" is docked. Notice that the little direction's map is animated and that all the boats in the harbor are multihulls! Progress . . . .</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://catamaranhotel.com">http://catamaranhotel.com</a></p>
<p> …</p>
<p></p>
<p>Pardon my spanish, the first website link is where I will be in two days. The second website is what I will be surveying as my potential blue water cruiser.</p>
<p>Check out the location section of the Hotel Catamaran's website where "Good Enough" is docked. Notice that the little direction's map is animated and that all the boats in the harbor are multihulls! Progress . . . .</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://catamaranhotel.com">http://catamaranhotel.com</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.seaworthysolutions.net/marples35trimaran.html">http://www.seaworthysolutions.net/marples35trimaran.html</a></p>Plunging into the depths of ...tag:seaknots.ning.com,2011-05-28:900123:BlogPost:1648892011-05-28T09:28:01.000ZMarlene A. Sassamanhttps://seaknots.ning.com/profile/MarleneASassaman
<p>Hopefully I won't be plunging into the depths of hell but rather into the land of sunshine and rainbows. Fewer rainbows perhaps because rainbows need rain and rain conjurs up storms and storms can be deadly. Other things can be deadly as well. Yet friends and other beings of the human kind seem to relate sailing offshore as a sure method of meeting one's demise. Who thinks about a deadly car crash on their routine drives, or a heart attack brought on by poor eating habits. Regardless of the…</p>
<p>Hopefully I won't be plunging into the depths of hell but rather into the land of sunshine and rainbows. Fewer rainbows perhaps because rainbows need rain and rain conjurs up storms and storms can be deadly. Other things can be deadly as well. Yet friends and other beings of the human kind seem to relate sailing offshore as a sure method of meeting one's demise. Who thinks about a deadly car crash on their routine drives, or a heart attack brought on by poor eating habits. Regardless of the pessimists, the unlearned and the naysayers in three days I'm off to a third world country with a man I've never met.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Hm, when I put it that way there does seem to be inherent risk. The gentleman was recommended by a friend of a friend. Both friends being respected sailors, boat builders and designers it seems reasonable that all will be fine. As always I expect to be cautious, will dress casually, and carry my trusted sharp bladed knife. Oh crude, forget the knife or I'll have to check it in the baggage compartment on the flight. If I were going non-stop it wouldn't be a problem. When having to change from a domestic to an international flight the chance of lost baggage increases exponentially. Better leave the weapon home and rely on my martial arts skills learned from a series of home videos back when VHS tapes were the talk of the town.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Speaking of martial arts, it's time to get back in shape. If you recall my past two entries spanning a month focused on my laxed fitness routine. It hasn't gotten any better except for today. As soon as this paragraph is over I'm back on the total gym while my good DVD friends from P90X slim and trim me up. A lot of muscle building and water excess can be eliminated in 3 days-- then it's off to survey my potential dream boat (not the stranger who will accompany me to do the survey, rather the thirty-five foot center cockpit wood epoxy constant camber trimaran.....</p>Hocus pocus, time to focustag:seaknots.ning.com,2011-04-26:900123:BlogPost:1626192011-04-26T02:02:10.000ZMarlene A. Sassamanhttps://seaknots.ning.com/profile/MarleneASassaman
<p>No, it's not. It's time to get off my duff and get back into my fitness routine.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>No, it's not. It's time to get off my duff and get back into my fitness routine.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>Hocus pocus, time to focustag:seaknots.ning.com,2011-04-26:900123:BlogPost:1623802011-04-26T02:02:08.000ZMarlene A. Sassamanhttps://seaknots.ning.com/profile/MarleneASassaman
<p>No, it's not. It's time to get off my duff and get back into my fitness routine.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>No, it's not. It's time to get off my duff and get back into my fitness routine.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>what is it?tag:seaknots.ning.com,2011-04-26:900123:BlogPost:1623782011-04-26T01:42:15.000ZMarlene A. Sassamanhttps://seaknots.ning.com/profile/MarleneASassaman
<p>Overeating junk food, while the vegetables go to waste. My fitness program has disappeared, and my energy level is again very low. I want to get away from drinking coffee, but it seems to be the only known beverage to keep me awake during those repeatitive IEP meetings I frequently have to attend in order to hopefully afford the voyage of a lifetime.. My love for SPRAY has dwindled. She needs a good polish and buffing. I'm too lazy to figure out how to work the electric buffer; don't want to…</p>
<p>Overeating junk food, while the vegetables go to waste. My fitness program has disappeared, and my energy level is again very low. I want to get away from drinking coffee, but it seems to be the only known beverage to keep me awake during those repeatitive IEP meetings I frequently have to attend in order to hopefully afford the voyage of a lifetime.. My love for SPRAY has dwindled. She needs a good polish and buffing. I'm too lazy to figure out how to work the electric buffer; don't want to have to take her to a 'yard.' I just lack ambition. Four more weeks until a nine week work break. No plans, other than to search for my next boat. I need a voyager that is safe, user friendly, and will take me as far as amy seasicknesses will tolerate.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>I'm having difficulty emotionally. Living alone feels so alone. It's so different when your lover is miles away and you know that at any time he will call. Guess I miss having a boyfriend. It is so quiet without our dog. The phone isn't ringing, the TV is off after watching four hours of nonsense this evening. Though it was the first time in 5 months I watched more than an hour. How do people stand the blab, blab, blab, is beyond me. Although admittedly I am intrigued with the upcoming royal wedding. I hope she wears a big puffy traditional dress and not some skimpy silhouetted body hugging sensual oo la la, dress better saved for a new year's eve gala event.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Golly, I gotta get out of this rut. Where oh where is my next boat? When will my next venture start? There is so much work ahead, yet all I want to do is eat and sleep. Someone send me inspiration and in return I'll brighten your day with sunny thoughts and silly tales of life alone at sea.</p>
<p> </p>Life Continues to Be Goodtag:seaknots.ning.com,2011-04-08:900123:BlogPost:1623082011-04-08T02:19:23.000ZMarlene A. Sassamanhttps://seaknots.ning.com/profile/MarleneASassaman
<p>Wow, it's been two whole days since I posted my last blog titled, "Life is Good." It seems like a record that 48 hours later I can still claim that "Life is Good." Sure, sadness is a part of life. Sadness, though, makes us appreciate what we have had and what is yet to come. Take for example the Tree of LIfe. It was a gift from the faculty and staff to everyone, who has been loved and lost as a result of death, by a Palm Bay Elementary School Lil' Pirate. Each morning I park by the lovely…</p>
<p>Wow, it's been two whole days since I posted my last blog titled, "Life is Good." It seems like a record that 48 hours later I can still claim that "Life is Good." Sure, sadness is a part of life. Sadness, though, makes us appreciate what we have had and what is yet to come. Take for example the Tree of LIfe. It was a gift from the faculty and staff to everyone, who has been loved and lost as a result of death, by a Palm Bay Elementary School Lil' Pirate. Each morning I park by the lovely Magnolia Tree and capture a leaf about to fall. I either save the leaf in my office or share it with someone who has those "I miss you blues."</p>
<p>Our Tree of Life has many blooms which I will start counting tomorrow along with one or two students. Also, all the kids in the Garden Club who will keep the tree watered and pruned will get a cup with 3 - 5 caterpillars in it. When they become butterflies we will take them out to the tree and watch them become the freedom riders they represent. My colleague, Dr. Stevie Weimer facilitates a grief counseling group for students in need. Those students also will be given a caterpillar cup.</p>
<p>Our very encouraging and fun loving principal has agreed to let the students visit their caterpillar cups and or set their butterflies free each day at 2 pm. Her comment was, "What a great way for them to relax after taking the grueling Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test!" She is so nice.</p>
<p>What does all this caterpillar flying and life trees have to do with sailing? It has evreything to do with sailing. Sailing is free, well after you pay for the boat of course. The wind is free. Without having nice ways to remember our losses sailing wouldn't be the same. To truly appreciate life's pleasures we have to find the rainbow after the rain. We have to find the calm after the storm. We have to endure in order to embellish the wonders of our world.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Ay,,,,,,may life continue to feel good for at least another day.</p>
<p> </p>Ay, life is good,,,,tag:seaknots.ning.com,2011-04-06:900123:BlogPost:1623002011-04-06T02:07:59.000ZMarlene A. Sassamanhttps://seaknots.ning.com/profile/MarleneASassaman
<p>At least for the moment life feels content. I reached my financial goal. In my checking account, from which I pay those nagging monthly bills, and in my daily spending account from which I buy boat things, grocerieis, widgets for the boat, clothes, registration fees for sailing events, maid service, boat cleaners, starbuck's, sailing gloves, dunkin' donuts, new sailing shoes, and well, you get the idea.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>My sailing team, SPRAY's SASSY SAILORS had another bloopie race day last…</p>
<p>At least for the moment life feels content. I reached my financial goal. In my checking account, from which I pay those nagging monthly bills, and in my daily spending account from which I buy boat things, grocerieis, widgets for the boat, clothes, registration fees for sailing events, maid service, boat cleaners, starbuck's, sailing gloves, dunkin' donuts, new sailing shoes, and well, you get the idea.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>My sailing team, SPRAY's SASSY SAILORS had another bloopie race day last Saturday. It is interesting in our teamwork which carries a heavy dose of a good sense of humor. In the last three races on a J-24 we observed the following. In the first race the helmsman had a difficult time staying on course. The foredeck crew was mediocre at best. With a novice pole dancer (you know the one who has to set and jibe the pole, as well as drop and stow it as we are sheeting in the jib for the return upwind leg), and a returning spinnaker trimmer, there was a lot to be desired. Our cockpit crew was flawless despite an arrangement of the winches and sheets different from the previous two boats we raced on. Then, there was the helmsman whose excuse was that this boat was tuned so well and response that oversteering was a perpetual error.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>In the second race, the foredeck showed quick thinking when setting the pole. When jibing, there was minimal miscommunication with the helmsman. The trimmer kept forgetting to look at the whole spinnaker. Fifty percent of the time the foot was so tight it nearly tore from being stretched against the bow pulpit. Again, our cockpit crew was nearly flawless despite the inability to figure out how to cleat the jib sheet when on s/b tack. Having to hold it tight for two long upwind legs takes a physically fit gal, of whom we are proud to have on board. That darn helmsman, though continued to oversteer on what should have been easy sailing. Upwind the gentle lifts glide the boat into its best position, except of course when the helmsman starts acting like the tactician, looking around the course, and trouble shooting the rest of the crews problems.</p>
<p>For the 3rd race we were psyched to win. The helmsman made two beautiful controlled starts, windward of the fleet, with a bit of speed. What more could you ask for. We were 2nd around the mark less than a boat length behind the first boat. The spinnaker went up nicely. The trimmer kept the foot loose, but not too loose. The pole dancer jibed perfectly in synch with the helm. But by the second upwind leg, the cockpit went to poopeyville. Every tack was an effort. Even when the helmsman held the boat into the wind until the jib could be sheeted in most of the way, there was a mess up.</p>
<p>Going to the finish the jib winch had an override so tight the helmsman had to jibe the boat around to get it undone. That wasn't the only override of the day. So, again we go home with a DFL..</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Thankfully, this after race sail home was embellished with a bottle of 'Sweet Magnolia" wine from the Secret Garden Winery in Goldsboro, North Carolina. In retrospect, our foredeck has learned their jobs well. The helmsman is better attuned to the steerage. Our once flawless cockpit crew, will solve whatever problems she had. So, look at women of the East Coast Sailing Association. From a forgetful foredeck in the first race, an inattentive helmsman in the second and a cocky cockpit crew we will all be in our best form when our tactician has us lead the pack around the course. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>If after 62 years I can get my budget in order, certainly I can bring our team to victory!</p>
<p>Stay tuned . . . .</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>