My First Sailboat Ride

It was a wonderful first time experience on Keith and Martin's 48' sailing vessel "Pearl". They have owned her for eight years and are both very experienced "sailors". It was a little cool and overcast, but Martin and I were both layered up quite well and didn't get chilled. Again I was very thankful for the hat that Jared bought me in Iceland!

We headed out of their marina into Mobjack Bay using the engine, then they hoisted the sails - an impressive feat since they do it by hand instead of electronic means. It's a very peaceful feeling listening to the sails ripple in the wind and hearing the little waves splashing up on the sides of the boat. Keith took us out to Chesapeake Bay, then back to the East River, and up it a little way. He pointed out interesting places along the way, such as Williams Wharf where the steamboats used to travel to, and a tidemill where corn was ground for George Washington's troops. We then went back to their marina and disembarked. It was an exhilarating first trip and I look forward to sailing with them again.

Yesterday Gene and I left Thousand Trails Chesapeake Bay and drove down to our friends Tom and Nancy's home in Raleigh, NC. It was another overcast day, but the rain didn't start until we were safely settled. We'll stay here a few days and then head out again.

Hope everyone gets out to vote today if you haven't already done so.

Until next time, God's blessings to all of you.