Thursday, June 30, 2011

Home for the summer

I am almost a week late in posting something about Calvin's return, but in the interest of my blog providing a journal of our doings, I better record the event. Calvin returned last Saturday. Josh and Alicia joined us, as well as Camille who drove up from Vancouver, WA to welcome Calvin. He spent a lot of time with friends on the weekend before we put him to work Monday morning on pressure washing and painting prep on the rental. True to form, Calvin has his summer planned out already. It is nice to have him home for a couple of months before he goes back to Japan for ten months. We will try to make the most of our times together. Esther finished the last bit of work obligations and is off until the latter part of August. We look forward to a lot of family time this coming weekend.

Thursday, June 23, 2011

Another boat - you've got to be kidding!

Montgomery Dinghy by Southworth Sailor
Montgomery Dinghy, a photo by Southworth Sailor on Flickr.

It seems that I had just recently rid myself of all unwanted boats and I was going to be content with my Montgomery 17. Actually there are many reasons for my recent purchase. I have often wanted a rowboat for those calm evenings when the water beckons, but there is no wind. I would also like a little sailing dinghy for winter sails or distant lakes. In addition, when cruising with my M17, it would be nice to tow a dinghy. I have been keeping my eye open for a reasonably priced Minto dinghy which is rich in local history. Last week I came across this dinghy for sale in Port Townsend. It was made by Montgomery just like my 'big' boat and was also designed by the same legendary designer, Lyle Hess. I had never seen one of these available, so I had to at least check it out. A deal was negotiated, and I find myself in possession of another classic Monty. I am anxious to test it out.

Sunday, June 12, 2011

back on the hook for another season

My Montgomery 17 is back on her summer mooring, ready for play at her captain's call. It is an annual milestone for me to get her on the mooring -- first comes the sprucing her up with wax, varnish and paint -- then making sure all rigging and gear are functioning and on board -- followed by remaking the mooring with the necessary new chain, swivels and shackles. The final day involves dropping the mooring, using canoe and rubber raft; then off to the launch to rig the boat and drop her in the water. The weekend weather was cooperative and I was able to get her in the water on Saturday and then do some sailing with Tim on Sunday. Another sailing season has begun!

Monday, June 06, 2011

Sri Lanka meets Southworth

Yesterday we had the opportunity to meet Stephanie's parents who live in Sri Lanka. They are here in the Northwest for a couple of weeks to celebrate Stephanie's graduation from SPU. We had heard lots about them from Stephanie, so it was great to meet them in person. Ted and Renate are missionaries in Sri Lanka where they are involved in leadership training of local pastors. While enjoying a delicious salmon dinner from Esther, we soaked up story after story of elephants and monsoons. It was a great evening and we are thankful for the opportunity to visit. Today's somewhat uneventful birthday was placated by the enjoyment of yesterday.