Earth Day

It was a lovely bright day. As we looked out across the water toward town we could see the penants flying in a brisk wind. There were noticeable rollers coming down the waterway ready to greet us as we slipped out from the protection of the dock and the Curtis.  I wouldn't call it the sweet spot, but it is precisely the place where preparation meets skill meets challenge.  I am happy to say we "made it past" and want to note that Leslie earned her title as cox on this year's Earth day. In short order, we arrived at the top of Thea Foss under her steady steering oar, wind and rollers at her back. It was pleasant for the rowers, was it not? Coming back was another story. Seldom used muscle groups are speaking still. Nancy may not offer so readily next time to be stroke as the elements gave no rest periods and no time for tea while traveling. Tea time came after all was done and pleasant I must say, with no worries about eating too much for later rowing. One more tiny oyster or maybe one more sliver of sardine won't hurt, right? 

And check out those hats! We now know the cinch on the strap works great.

First Row

There's something special about "firsts" - the first of spring, the first kiss, certainly the first child. All of these firsts come with a sense of a new beginning, fresh and unassuming, full of great potential. They are special and should be celebrated. Our first row of the season was no exception! It was - in a word - "WONDERFUL!" All those months of hard work came to fruition and the waterway was once again ours to explore.

It was a bit stressful at the start - a bit like opening day at Fileen's bargain basement - Open! Open! OPEN!  Our first clue that patience was required should have been the pitch of the ramp. It was straight down! Next it was a full boat of water. That was solved quickly with coordinated effort. Then it was  the many trips with oars and gear. I must admit that took the edge off the adrenaline flow  A review of commands, equipment check and synchronizing of watches we were READY! Oars in place, and words of caution about the rock we carefully moved along the dock- only to see that our beam is wider than we wished, but isn't that 'everybody's' problem these days? Deep breath...

When the way forward is not possible the only sensible thing to do is to sit down and have tea and tie on your anchor. Give into the obstacle. By doing so we had a great chat, reviewed our methods and duties and ate some very nice treats and before long we were on our way.Big sigh...

The skies were blue, the city and waterway sparkled and we were at one with Vérité.
Mother Nature, I might add, was in total harmony with us too. As you will see with this photo montage she waits for us to get back on shore - always has and we hope always will.