Compare and Contrast

The difference between this week's row and last week's was markedly different. Last week we stayed in the Thea Waterway due to the winds. The seasoned crew considered the risk but felt up to the challenge. The 6-10 mph gusts seemed to come from every direction. It took a great deal of effort to reach the head of the waterway and not one break to rest either. The ride back - duty free yet humbling under the power of wind and wave. A good reminder to be aware at all times when on the water. Tea was at dockside. It was either there or at the Victoria Hotel on Vancouver Island at the rate we were going.  As you can see, in spite of the grey skies, blustery weather and hard work you can see the crew and guest are as happy as can be.

 

 

This week (Labor Day) by contract was sunny and surprisingly warm. The wind was blowing but not with the ferocity of last week. Fishermen lined the shores and the boaters were out in force. Many boaters enjoyed racing across the bay. With a rush they put on the breaks right before they entered the Thea Foss Waterway. It gave us a rush too.

 

And then... Jan B read from:

The Rime of the Ancient Mariner

A poem by Samuel Taylor Coleridge

The Rime of the Ancient Mariner is the longest major poem by the English poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge, written in 1797–98 and published in 1798 in the first edition of Lyrical Ballads.

 

The wind stopped blowing, the traffic subsided, as we sat in the slanting afternoon sun. We sat still as she read of this other time and place. Dingle, the harbor seal slipped in and around the Verite listening too. One time closer than she has ever been!  A treat for all to see. 

 

 

The Crowley's came in as we went out.

 

Cauliflower pizza, fresh and dried fruits, brownies (already consumed), nut bread and cookies and nuts, tea and.... more.

 

Dingle in the distance.

 

 

 

Pinch me - this is real, right? The contrast of our days may be great and yet there is this harmony that flows in and around, embracing each of us where we sit. The magic formula is quite basic - be on the water, share food, listen to each other and send out compassionate thoughts to those who are not able to be with us this day. Oh, and row a bit too.