High Tide

The water this past Monday was really interesting. The ramp down to the dock was almost horizontal as I talked and walked, not really paying attention. Then, I looked over to the boat. OMG! Look at all that water! What a huge contrast from last week.

We had 12 show up this week which included a sister and a returning J.

Like riding a bicycle our returning J took starboard 7 with great gusto.

As we settled in the boat the most peculiar thing happened. A HUGE series of waves lifted the Verite up at least a foot or more. At first the waves were simply rocking the boat. Then they became stronger and higher and pretty soon it required everyone to sit down and hold on. With a look over the shoulder you could see the other boats perpendicular to the waterway tipping deeply sideways as the waves pushed down the Thea.  You could hear their lines clanging against their masts.  It was very much like an earthquake in that it seemed to go on for quite a long time. Troubling too, because there was no apparent cause for the waves - tugboat, fast motor boat,  or incoming container ship (in fact, there wasn't a one in the bay) so what was it? Simply high tide making itself known? A wind wave that had gathered momentum? There was no mention of an earthquake nearby in the news or on-line for that day either. Oh, maybe Commencement Bay has a Loch Ness monster? At the very least it was a reminder that Mother Nature likes to be unpredictable. Later she tested us with wind. I hope we passed our impromptu test.

Tea Time... the wind took us back in.

 

See the front coming?

 

 Now, to thread the our 18 foot oared needle between those 2 tugs and the huge sailing ship behind?

Lucky thirteen

It was a lovely day on the water this past Monday - in the upper 70's with a slight breeze blowing. It just doesn't get better than that! Plus we had a full turn out. In fact, over the number the boat can hold.  Thanks to the two for giving up their spots. This has only happened a time or two, so it has never been a huge issue, but rather than someone going home next time we will simply bring out the kayaks. Those who are experienced kayakers can follow along or lead the way depending on their pace. So, that's the plan. Being on the water is so restorative and reinvigorating we want everyone to have the opportunity regardless of boat.

Before every row, we review the commands and safety issues and practice

what to do if you  'catch a crab.

Memorial Day Row

A full boat, lots to see, what more could you ask for - except - please pass the tea.

 

How often do you see the Murray Morgan bridge up?

Anyone who works or plays along the Thea Foss Waterway is no doubt, 

appreciative the bridge has been repaired.

 

 

 

Little baby jelly fish.

 

 

 

This little ferry, normally docked at Petrich dock is coming home.

 

It is a pleasant feeling - coming home.

Having Vérité in the water is just like coming home.

 

Glorious Day

Old friends, new friends were hugged and welcomed. The clouds were boiling and roiling on the horizon, but only blue sky above for us and the water - it looked like glass. Such a glorious day.

 

In the merry, merry month of May

Instructions for Life

Pay attention.

Be astonished.

Tell about it.

                              - Mary Oliver

It was a glorious day. Thanks to a little genie the boat was ready to go when we all gathered this past Monday. After a review about boat safety, crabs, tides and wind we were off. It was a pleasant 76 degrees with a slight breeze and sun!  Unused muscles were speaking the loudest. For two hours we gently made our way up and down the waterway. Our guest Sam told us several stories while tea was served and treats passed. It was a pleasant start to the season.

 

 

Tea time is a nice tradition, isn't it Sam?

A few Girl Scout cookies and a couple mango strips...

Life can be pretty sweet.

 

Bail, bail, bail the boat

We met this last Monday and bailed the boat out. What teamwork! Many hands made light the work.

She was full - up over the thwarts.

 

Make that a big "V" for Verite!