Metamorphosis

This is the time of my final transmutation. Time to forsake the conventions of land for the wild anarchy of the seas. Time for the sanctification and restoration of my soul. I have taken inventory of my needs; the sturdy Bayfield beneath my feet, its white sails full of wind, clothes, tools to calm the cantankerous Yanmar, and of course the guitar; for what would the sailor be without a song? No land ties will tether and torture this wandering spirit; this rising Phoenix from the ashes of quiet desperation. This is the beginning, the confluence of the experiential life and life's latent desires. The capstone of life.

Spring Commission

There are some physical characteristics one should assume prior to engaging in plumbing projects aboard a boat; including, but not limited to, the strength of Sampson, the wisdom of Solomon, and the patience of Job. Having three hands would help too, and Gumby's spine. Changing intake valves on a boat is like performing in Circus de Soleil. There are many places on a boat that you can see, and that you can touch, but not at the same time. So your hand is in one compartment, turning a fitting with a wrench, your head is in another compartment, upside down, watching what your hand is doing. Forget knowing which way to turn or leverage, those concepts don't exist on a boat. Anyway the ball valves are in, the thru-hulls are tight; all we need is a little bottom paint and we are ready for a splash.

On The Bayfield

The Bayfield 29 is a heavy displacement, full-keeled, classic sailing ship. She is a cutter rig with a full complement of sail options to offer the capricious winds. Her classic lines, extended bowsprit, and clipper bow offer a salty, blue water countenance. Her topside is liberally appointed with beautiful teakwood. Below deck offers a capacious salon with single berth to port and double berth to starboard. The L-shaped galley is to starboard opposite a navigation station to port. There are two quarter berths and ample storage throughout for extended cruising or living aboard. The mast is keel stepped. The v-berth has been eliminated in favor of a walk-in, very roomy forward head. All ports are operable. Auxiliary power is supplied by a Yanmar 2GM diesel workhorse.

On Sailing

Sailing; the ultimate coalescence of man and nature. In sailing man does not conquer nature, he embraces her forces with reverence and respect, and moves through them like fine thread through silk, in symbiotic intimacy. The hull may be fabricated by man, but it is designed by the water. The sails may be shaped by man, but they have been conceived by the wind. If true freedom lies in meeting nature on her own terms, then this is the promise of sailing; freedom.