Continuing Preparations Blood, Sweat and Tears

The impending autumn anxiously awaits the completion of boat improvements and the conquering of logistic obstacles. Our parents, in particular, have been instrumental in speeding our preparations. Among the systems installed were single sideband radio, battery monitor, insulated backstay, reefing lines, and more.

Between all of the hard work, we also managed to get away to Provincetown and Hadley Harbor for a nice family weekend. After a hair-raising entry into the harbor after dark, we anchored safely and slept soundly. The next day, Aaron bagged the first two fish of the summer, a couple of flounder that we promptly cleaned and gutted in an amateur but effective exercise. The act of butchery gave me some cause for reflection, and illuminated once again the compelling arguments for vegetarianism. We grilled the fish and ate a few heavily seasoned bites. Though not disagreeable, the meat was scarce, and next to the burgers on our plates, there was no question which animal we found more satisfying. The fish carcasses were pitched overboard.

We also walked around Provincetown and took in the beautiful scenery and end-of-season tourist activity. Yes, Aaron and I were hit on by a group of young men. Though sailors, we’d like to take this opportunity to state for the record that we are, in fact, heterosexual. Saturday night was spent in Hadley Harbor, a beautiful little anchorage at the mouth of Wood’s Hole protected by a group of islands owned by the Forbes family. We enjoyed an excellent dinner and prolonged sunset before sleeping in calm conditions. The next day remained calm and we motored back to Onset in little wind and no surf.

Our departure continues to be pushed back due to the numerous projects that need completing. The best estimate is now the middle of October.

Leave a Reply