Though I have stated many, many times that I really did not wish to retire at age 76, there are times when I find retirement somewhat beneficial. First and foremost, no more tight schedules and having to work each and every holiday when I wanted to be with my friends and family.

Now that I no longer have that schedule, I can go to bed late, get up late, and go sailing whenever I feel like it and the weather permits. So far, this has been a repeat of last year when it comes to the weather - colder than normal and lots of rain. Next week will be a washout if the weather forecast is correct, but I may be able to go sailing on Saturday (fingers crossed).

Last Saturday, I took a couple friends who also have a boat at the same marina I dock at, they are originally from Poland and a wonderful couple.

We sailed about 30 miles, often at speeds of 7 to 8 knots, which is zipping right along by sailboat standards, with winds of 15 to 25 MPH from the west, which were perfect for the area we sailed.

My hopes are to be able to sail well into mid or late November this season, before putting the boat on dry land for the winter. However, if I were still physically able, I would be headed for the Florida Keys and Dry Tortugas before cold weather sets in.

All the best,

Gary

Love the pictures Gary.

Deane

Thanks Deane. I hope to make a 500-mile voyage in the next two weeks, and with luck, I'll get some good video and photos to post.

All the best,

Gary

Gary. Plus the good lady by your side.

Gary, there are times when I lose my smile. But when I look back and remember the fantastic life I had, I’m alright.

Keep going my friend, John C.

Graham, the lady in the photo was my friend's wife. She's much younger than Carol and loves to sail. Carol loves to sail, too, but can no longer safely access the boat.

John, I guess I look at life in the same way. I have been so fortunate to be able to do many of the things that others only dream of doing, but never do.

All the best,

Gary

Gary, who is the “Adonis” standing on the bow of your boat? If that’s you...I’m impressed ⛵️
JM

No, that is my friend, Piotr. He just turned 60 and in much better physical condition that I am by a long shot.

Here I am doing the same thing. This was last November, just before the boat was stored for winter, thus the sweater and jeans.

Gary

Still lookin’ good Gary!
JM

I "wanna" sail, TOO! I'm little Russ, only 74. WOULD YOU ADOPT ME, PLEASE?


Russ

C'mon over, Russ - the weather should improve by Friday and I'll be stocking the bar and pantry, then putting up the sails and point the bow south for Cape Charles, VA at the mouth of Chesapeake Bay, about 250 miles south of the marina. Probably catch some fish and crabs for dinner along the way, too.

You're always welcome aboard, Russ,

Gary

Gary great to see your really up and about like a busy beaver...
good on ya buddy. enjoy your Sailing..