Can't wait to get back out to sea. The first four days of this journey had SPRAY cruising from Port Canaveral to Beaufort, North Carolina. Four nights at sea. Then, the forecast dimmed at the same time oil collected in the bottom of the engine room. Time to head for the inlet.
The few things I learned include SPRAY's ability to take kindly to 3 and 4 foot waves in up to 25 knots of wind. She doesn't tack well with a double reefed main and staysail in a stiff breeze. Too much oil is too much of a good thing. When the throttle sticks there is a problem down below; it's one of those knee bone connected to the toe bone syndromes. Salt walter leaking from a newly installed hose can seize the speed control lever. Not wanting to cruise the ICW, indeed, dreading the possibility builds my confidence as an offshore sailor. I know Hatteras is 'the danger' zone and needs to be sailed with utmost caution. It's the challenge, it's what this trip is all about. Well, that and waving to the 'lady.'
Having so many friends care about me is ovewhelming. I didn't realize how much of my past 33 years was dedicated to Danny. Truly, he was 'my man.' He was the one who I believed cared about me. Rarely did I consider how much others thought of me. So much of my teen years were taken away by those eenie meanies who ripped apart my self esteem that it has taken nearly a lifetime to feel good about myself; to appreciate the value of others; and to thank God each day for the beauty of life.
Being alone on SPRAY is interesting. In a way I feel like a little girl playing 'house.' I always wanted one of those kids houses in the back yard. In fact, Danny built one for our neighbors son and daughter. They surprised us both by hanging pictures of some of our sailing adventures on the walls. It was a two story doll/camping house. Being somewhat cramped on SPRAY, like when I have to climb up to my bunk and lie fairly flat or risk bunking my head on the cabin top, makes me feel like a ten year old.
Asked earlier tonight if I still want to sail alone my response was an overwhelming, "YES." But I clarified that with my original dream to have a buddy boat. Being single is fun. Having a special someone would be nice, I admit. But in 2 or 3 days when I set off to sail around Cape Hatteras by myself in my Marples 35. Well, that will be the 'high' light of my life. What can I say?
Fair winds to all (and may the weather be warmer than it has been here in Morehead City, NC).
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