What a wonderful day. I’m spending the day in the comfort of our motor home, in Meredith, Lakes Region of New Hampshire. Rain is falling gently on the roof and I’m feeling very grateful as I contemplate the passage of time, growth, and the changing seasons.
Summer has transitioned into autumn. As shadows grow longer, days shorter, air so cool and very clear, I’ve been thinking about the summer that was filled with friends, family, fun and learning experiences.
Each July, we have a family vacation at a kid friendly campground in Freedom, NH, Danforth Bay Campground. This July was no different. It’s so much fun watching the kids enjoy the swimming, kayaking, biking, making tie dye shirts and roasting marshmallows over the campfire, getting so exhausted that they collapse into bed at night.
Then there was a beautiful August. My friend Toby, invited me to “Crew” on his sailboat. This must be a sign of desperation since sailing is totally new to me. I love being on board the sailboat and I’m happy to pitch in to keep it moving forward. But, there is a steep learning curve.
Toby has the idea that if I can drive a motor home on land, I can sail his sailboat. It could be true. I’m not yet sure. There are some major differences. It’s a good thing that Toby is a very patient man.
The moment you set foot on the dock, many things change. Ropes become “lines”. Words I’ve used for years such as “Right, left, back, front” are just never heard. There are all sorts of fasteners for fenders, steps, those handles you switch from one side to the other depending on what sail you want to adjust. Nothing like driving. Using what I learned in kindergarten, I can just “stay in the lines” with the motor home. There are no “lines” in the ocean. Red and green corks bounce in the waves where the fog lines should be. There are hundreds of lobster pots to dodge. And, while Toby raises the mainsail, It’s my job to aim the 30+feet of Sabre into the wind. While he is raising the jib, my assignment is to keep it heading any direction except into the wind. Can you guess how I know?? Picture sitting totally still…. in irons?? even more jargon. I offered to start the engine. That seemed to be the wrong answer.
The joys and fun of summer have been replaced by the cool, clear autumn air, the crisp, sweet taste of fresh apples, and the promise of winter to come. I am cherishing this time to move forward with optimism, hope and joy. I hope you are too. There is always next year to continue learning that new language and keep the Sabre on course.
