OK, so maybe your boat is on the hard for the winter. Even if you're still in the water, the oven on your Origo or your Force 10 probably isn't big enough for a turkey. So how does a sailor celebrate Thanksgiving? Maybe it's a good time to say thanks to those who have helped make it a good year on the water. Perhaps someone gave you a tow when you needed it. Did a friend give you a hand with a repair or project you couldn't manage yourself? Did someone teach you a new skill? How about your crew who put up with all of your captainly demands this year? Maybe your friends on this site who gave you answers to questions, or moral support when you needed it? Or maybe it's time to simply give thanks for a sailing year that ended safely. Share your stories and notes of thanks here, then vote in the quiz on the bottom of the home page. (Quiz contributed by Gary Wyngarden)
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Well, Let's See..
..thankful to be fortunate to live a childhood dream ..to share it with a great spouse ..to all the good friends I've met ..to the wonderful memories my daughter has ..to the alternative life that kept me from going nuts on the other one ..to the luck of being born in a place that made it possible ..to the fresh air, stars at night, hissing of the bow wave, gentle spray ..to a whole other life style that added richness and texture in all, a lot to be thankful for. (Of course, there are all the boat units it takes to keep it all going) Happy thanksgiving to all those in the states and best wishes to those living the sailing life elsewhere. Rick D.
..thankful to be fortunate to live a childhood dream ..to share it with a great spouse ..to all the good friends I've met ..to the wonderful memories my daughter has ..to the alternative life that kept me from going nuts on the other one ..to the luck of being born in a place that made it possible ..to the fresh air, stars at night, hissing of the bow wave, gentle spray ..to a whole other life style that added richness and texture in all, a lot to be thankful for. (Of course, there are all the boat units it takes to keep it all going) Happy thanksgiving to all those in the states and best wishes to those living the sailing life elsewhere. Rick D.
My old/new friends
My wife and I moved put our boat from Rhode Island north to Maine waters for two months this past summer. This took and incredible amount of effort with planning, charting, logistics and crew to get the boat up and back (200nm each way). I want to thank my northbound crew of Mickey Goodman and Rick Wood, my southbound crew of Colleen Akers (wife), Peter Poulin, Jerry & Jane Homer and Mickey Goodman. Also the boats and crew of Rythm & Blue, Odyssey and Gloria who were part of our two-week summer flotilla to Downeast Maine. With the friendship, help and local knowledge of these folks, the trip was as enjoyable as one could be.
My wife and I moved put our boat from Rhode Island north to Maine waters for two months this past summer. This took and incredible amount of effort with planning, charting, logistics and crew to get the boat up and back (200nm each way). I want to thank my northbound crew of Mickey Goodman and Rick Wood, my southbound crew of Colleen Akers (wife), Peter Poulin, Jerry & Jane Homer and Mickey Goodman. Also the boats and crew of Rythm & Blue, Odyssey and Gloria who were part of our two-week summer flotilla to Downeast Maine. With the friendship, help and local knowledge of these folks, the trip was as enjoyable as one could be.
This Year More Than Others
We need to be thankful for those who have put themselves in harms way so that we may be thinking about turkey and sailing instead of what could be more dire thoughts. Many spent the holidays last year away from home most of this year and are looking to spend the holidays this year in a place where they might as well be thinking of walking on the moon as opposed to sailing. If you know someone who is away, thank their family for the sacrifice they are making as well. We all hope and pray that next year they can all be home safe and sound with loved ones.
We need to be thankful for those who have put themselves in harms way so that we may be thinking about turkey and sailing instead of what could be more dire thoughts. Many spent the holidays last year away from home most of this year and are looking to spend the holidays this year in a place where they might as well be thinking of walking on the moon as opposed to sailing. If you know someone who is away, thank their family for the sacrifice they are making as well. We all hope and pray that next year they can all be home safe and sound with loved ones.
Words Are Not Enough
When is the last time someone gave you a free boat??!! The KU Naval ROTC Battalion was recently given a First 235 in fine condition. Not to mention the fact that the donor tossed in new sails, a new bottom paint job (as if we really need it here in KS) and next year's slip rental! A retired professor from the University of Kansas, Dr. Tony Shirer, thought that he "owed something back" to the Navy for the training and employment it gave him in WWII and after. He's getting on in years and the doctor advised him that it was time to let go of his boat. Our midshipmen were the grateful recipients of his generosity. If you've ever tried to teach someone to sail by putting two full size people on a Laser, you can guess how much we appreciate the chance to explain some of the finer points to our students while not laying on our bellies on the "foredeck" of a Laser or shouting at them with a bullhorn from the johnboat. We had four Lasers and one 420; but now with our First 235 we really do feel like "The Jayhawk Navy." She (the "Faraday") will make an excellent committee boat for our regattas, too. And for the students who stay in town for summer school, well, we'll know where to find them when not in class. As far as things to be thankful for go, unless you or a loved one has survived a near brush with death recently, this gift provides a reason for thanks that is hard to top. Once again to Dr. Shirer, from 70 midshipmen (and us staff too), thank you!
When is the last time someone gave you a free boat??!! The KU Naval ROTC Battalion was recently given a First 235 in fine condition. Not to mention the fact that the donor tossed in new sails, a new bottom paint job (as if we really need it here in KS) and next year's slip rental! A retired professor from the University of Kansas, Dr. Tony Shirer, thought that he "owed something back" to the Navy for the training and employment it gave him in WWII and after. He's getting on in years and the doctor advised him that it was time to let go of his boat. Our midshipmen were the grateful recipients of his generosity. If you've ever tried to teach someone to sail by putting two full size people on a Laser, you can guess how much we appreciate the chance to explain some of the finer points to our students while not laying on our bellies on the "foredeck" of a Laser or shouting at them with a bullhorn from the johnboat. We had four Lasers and one 420; but now with our First 235 we really do feel like "The Jayhawk Navy." She (the "Faraday") will make an excellent committee boat for our regattas, too. And for the students who stay in town for summer school, well, we'll know where to find them when not in class. As far as things to be thankful for go, unless you or a loved one has survived a near brush with death recently, this gift provides a reason for thanks that is hard to top. Once again to Dr. Shirer, from 70 midshipmen (and us staff too), thank you!
Two, who helped a new sailor
My wife and I who are new sailors, put in our first boat late this summer. The men in the yard towed us to a spot in the marina that usually is occupied by visiting boats. After making the boat secure and showing us how a good tie-up should be arranged, the yardmen went on about their work. First order of business was to raise and secure the sails. Wind blowing 5+ knots from port beam and my wife has a bum knee and wrist from a recent accident. We can’t put the bow into the wind and I am not comfortable motoring out into the bay with out having the sails hanked on. So I am on the bow trying to feed the jib into the guide on the roller furler and my wife is trying to manage the halyard. We repeatedly tried to raise the jib only to have it jam and flog in the cross breeze. She could not pull hard or fast enough and I could not be in two places. We just about to give up when a voice from the dock asked if we could use a hand. Two men from a visiting boat had been watching us fighting the sail and strolled on over. I am thankful for the two strangers who took time out of their morning to help us put up the jib and the main. But mostly I am thankful because they took the time to teach us about what they were doing and why they were doing it. I read about the procedures many times, but knowledge from a book is not the same as experience. Many thanks to Gary and Bob sailing Loretta. You helped make our first day afloat a memorable day.
My wife and I who are new sailors, put in our first boat late this summer. The men in the yard towed us to a spot in the marina that usually is occupied by visiting boats. After making the boat secure and showing us how a good tie-up should be arranged, the yardmen went on about their work. First order of business was to raise and secure the sails. Wind blowing 5+ knots from port beam and my wife has a bum knee and wrist from a recent accident. We can’t put the bow into the wind and I am not comfortable motoring out into the bay with out having the sails hanked on. So I am on the bow trying to feed the jib into the guide on the roller furler and my wife is trying to manage the halyard. We repeatedly tried to raise the jib only to have it jam and flog in the cross breeze. She could not pull hard or fast enough and I could not be in two places. We just about to give up when a voice from the dock asked if we could use a hand. Two men from a visiting boat had been watching us fighting the sail and strolled on over. I am thankful for the two strangers who took time out of their morning to help us put up the jib and the main. But mostly I am thankful because they took the time to teach us about what they were doing and why they were doing it. I read about the procedures many times, but knowledge from a book is not the same as experience. Many thanks to Gary and Bob sailing Loretta. You helped make our first day afloat a memorable day.
Thanks Phil, Bly and HOW
On Sunday I was asked by a couple of fellow sailors if I could help them with a H40.5 that wouldn't start. As a favor to the away skipper, they were doing maintenance items and had taken it around to a fuel dock to top off the tank. Afterwards, when they turned the key - nothing. As we drove over with a spare battery, lot of tools and a multimeter, I explained that I had a Volvo engine and not a Yanmar, BUT that I had heard on HOW about engine start solenoid problems that owners had submitted. Well I went straight to the solenoid positive wire terminal, pulled it off, cleaned it and the spade up (they were corroded), stuck it back on and told them "turn the key" - VAROOOOM! Sweetest sound when you're troubleshooting a engine. It was all because of HOW and the excellent source of information it is. It also has great products and customer service. Thanks to all who maintain the Best site on the Internet and to all who contribute their time sharing a wealth of information over the 5 years I have been logging on. AND ditto to both Rick Webb's and Rick Dinon's Thanksgiving Comments. Debbie and I share their sentiments.
On Sunday I was asked by a couple of fellow sailors if I could help them with a H40.5 that wouldn't start. As a favor to the away skipper, they were doing maintenance items and had taken it around to a fuel dock to top off the tank. Afterwards, when they turned the key - nothing. As we drove over with a spare battery, lot of tools and a multimeter, I explained that I had a Volvo engine and not a Yanmar, BUT that I had heard on HOW about engine start solenoid problems that owners had submitted. Well I went straight to the solenoid positive wire terminal, pulled it off, cleaned it and the spade up (they were corroded), stuck it back on and told them "turn the key" - VAROOOOM! Sweetest sound when you're troubleshooting a engine. It was all because of HOW and the excellent source of information it is. It also has great products and customer service. Thanks to all who maintain the Best site on the Internet and to all who contribute their time sharing a wealth of information over the 5 years I have been logging on. AND ditto to both Rick Webb's and Rick Dinon's Thanksgiving Comments. Debbie and I share their sentiments.
The Best Crew Anywhere
I am thankful for the best racing crew a skipper could ever wish for. Thank you Bob, Chris, Dave, Steve, and Rich for a highly successful summer series and for the first place finish in our division in the Catalina 34 Nationals last September! Superior sail trim and fast tacking was our margin of victory. I look forward to next year's season with great anticipation. Most of all I'm thankful for my wife and sailing partner Kim. Who didn't mind too much those pre-dawn departures and late evening arrivals. Who kept her good humor in both storm and rough seas (I told you those new foulies would come in handy). As "snacktician" she kept us well fed on the racecourse and was an indispensable member of the crew. Who would rather sail all summer long than weed the rose beds. You are the best "Boat Betty" a guy could ever wish for. George s/v Freya
I am thankful for the best racing crew a skipper could ever wish for. Thank you Bob, Chris, Dave, Steve, and Rich for a highly successful summer series and for the first place finish in our division in the Catalina 34 Nationals last September! Superior sail trim and fast tacking was our margin of victory. I look forward to next year's season with great anticipation. Most of all I'm thankful for my wife and sailing partner Kim. Who didn't mind too much those pre-dawn departures and late evening arrivals. Who kept her good humor in both storm and rough seas (I told you those new foulies would come in handy). As "snacktician" she kept us well fed on the racecourse and was an indispensable member of the crew. Who would rather sail all summer long than weed the rose beds. You are the best "Boat Betty" a guy could ever wish for. George s/v Freya
If it deals with sailing, my thanks goes here!!
Ditto Mickey's gratitude to Phil, Bly and all who participate in the (sometimes very lively!!) discussions on sailboatowners.com. There is no other single source of information anywhere that is formatted better to encourage sailors to talk about sailing from a to z. Is there any other website, book, video or class that can compare with the on-going series of articles and responses that examine boating from the perspectives of owners and experts who love their boats and want to share what they have learned through the various forums? I think not. Hyperbole? I don't think so. Consider what we learn day in and day out about everything from etiquette to bilge cleaners!! And all we have to do is ask, even though the question may have been answered a thousand times. Again, my thanks to everyone who participates here. Tom Ehmke
Ditto Mickey's gratitude to Phil, Bly and all who participate in the (sometimes very lively!!) discussions on sailboatowners.com. There is no other single source of information anywhere that is formatted better to encourage sailors to talk about sailing from a to z. Is there any other website, book, video or class that can compare with the on-going series of articles and responses that examine boating from the perspectives of owners and experts who love their boats and want to share what they have learned through the various forums? I think not. Hyperbole? I don't think so. Consider what we learn day in and day out about everything from etiquette to bilge cleaners!! And all we have to do is ask, even though the question may have been answered a thousand times. Again, my thanks to everyone who participates here. Tom Ehmke
Thanks to all of you!
As part of the "team" at SailboatOwners.com, I have to thank all of you who offer observations, critiques and most importantly, advice on our boats. This is one of the few sailing sites that I've run across that has a lot of traffic yet manages to remain positive and supportive 99% of the time. Thank you all for preserving the supportive environment Phil & Bly have created!! Oh yeah, thanks to Phil, Bly & Karissa too!!
LaDonna
As part of the "team" at SailboatOwners.com, I have to thank all of you who offer observations, critiques and most importantly, advice on our boats. This is one of the few sailing sites that I've run across that has a lot of traffic yet manages to remain positive and supportive 99% of the time. Thank you all for preserving the supportive environment Phil & Bly have created!! Oh yeah, thanks to Phil, Bly & Karissa too!!
LaDonnaThanks Paul Lapointe
Thanks Paul, for sharing your patience, knowledge, and humor with us. We appreciate you taking time to teach us to sail, and for selling us the Jolly Roger. Conrad and Johnnie Cheney
Thanks Paul, for sharing your patience, knowledge, and humor with us. We appreciate you taking time to teach us to sail, and for selling us the Jolly Roger. Conrad and Johnnie Cheney
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All of you made it a great year
I found sailboatowners.com this year and the first question I posted solved a problem I had been having for two years with my reefing setup. I used to read and post on sailnet.com, but it is such a negative environment there, with one or two self-appointed "old salts" poisoning the exchanges. Every day I come here to learn from all of you who share your knowledge, confess your mistakes, and even do research for others, suggesting sources and digging up information. It would have taken me 10 years to learn on my own what you have all taught me this season. Thank you all, (the other) Paul sv Escape Artist h336
I found sailboatowners.com this year and the first question I posted solved a problem I had been having for two years with my reefing setup. I used to read and post on sailnet.com, but it is such a negative environment there, with one or two self-appointed "old salts" poisoning the exchanges. Every day I come here to learn from all of you who share your knowledge, confess your mistakes, and even do research for others, suggesting sources and digging up information. It would have taken me 10 years to learn on my own what you have all taught me this season. Thank you all, (the other) Paul sv Escape Artist h336
I'm going to borrow an old United Way slogan
'Thanks to you, it works.' Is that ever true here! These sites work because you are the best, most supportive, most honest and unpretentious sailors on the web. We are very thankful for your participation, loyalty, and incredible support. We are thankful for Peggie Hall, Don Guillette, Kevin Woody (PYI), Phil Williams (WAECO Adler Barbour), Dr. Anthony (Jim) Willis (Island Girl), for all the time they devote to answering questions. Not to mention Crazy Dave Condon (American Marine and Sail Supply, NC), who doesn't have his own forum but chips in with a lot of good advice and an important perspective. We are thankful for LaDonna Bubak on CatalinaOwners.com and Justin Andrus on OdayOwners.com, who have never failed to be welcoming and helpful to new site visitors and novice sailors. We are thankful for Gary Wyngarden, who has done a fantastic job with quiz, Far better than I ever did! And his sailing skills quiz was the biggest thing to happen here since Jim Bohart's last reply. And to all of you who have emailed suggestions, complaints, and advice, thank you for caring enough to make the site better for everyone. When people ask me what I do, I say I get to be around people while they interact with their passion. And for that I am especially thankful.
'Thanks to you, it works.' Is that ever true here! These sites work because you are the best, most supportive, most honest and unpretentious sailors on the web. We are very thankful for your participation, loyalty, and incredible support. We are thankful for Peggie Hall, Don Guillette, Kevin Woody (PYI), Phil Williams (WAECO Adler Barbour), Dr. Anthony (Jim) Willis (Island Girl), for all the time they devote to answering questions. Not to mention Crazy Dave Condon (American Marine and Sail Supply, NC), who doesn't have his own forum but chips in with a lot of good advice and an important perspective. We are thankful for LaDonna Bubak on CatalinaOwners.com and Justin Andrus on OdayOwners.com, who have never failed to be welcoming and helpful to new site visitors and novice sailors. We are thankful for Gary Wyngarden, who has done a fantastic job with quiz, Far better than I ever did! And his sailing skills quiz was the biggest thing to happen here since Jim Bohart's last reply. And to all of you who have emailed suggestions, complaints, and advice, thank you for caring enough to make the site better for everyone. When people ask me what I do, I say I get to be around people while they interact with their passion. And for that I am especially thankful.
Thanks to Fred and Mike
I bought a Catalina22 and thought I knew how to sail.Having sailed while in Boy Scouts(dingy) The first day on the water was almost my last.The wind picked up to around 25 miles an hour,and I found myself on my side more often then not.After a long struggle getting back to my dock.I noticed two men standing at my mouring waiting for me.They introduced themselfs as Fred and Mike,owners of C22`s and wanted to know if I would like to join their club,and race in the club races.So to make a long story short they took me by the hand and taught me how to sail. Thanks Fred and Mike
I bought a Catalina22 and thought I knew how to sail.Having sailed while in Boy Scouts(dingy) The first day on the water was almost my last.The wind picked up to around 25 miles an hour,and I found myself on my side more often then not.After a long struggle getting back to my dock.I noticed two men standing at my mouring waiting for me.They introduced themselfs as Fred and Mike,owners of C22`s and wanted to know if I would like to join their club,and race in the club races.So to make a long story short they took me by the hand and taught me how to sail. Thanks Fred and Mike
A Million Thanks & Happy Holidays to all of you
More than three years ago I discovered HOW. It led to my finding my current boat (84 H34), and helped so much in preparing me for things to look for that I was in a position to make an offer (pending survey of course) after the first look at the boat. Many of you have helped over the last three years and I have tried to make the others benefit from my own knowledge. On the eve of this great American Holiday, this Canadian friend of yours says Thanks you all for the invaluable help and Thank you Phil for providing this forum. May youall (I lived in the south for 2 years) have a Very Happy ThanksGiving.
More than three years ago I discovered HOW. It led to my finding my current boat (84 H34), and helped so much in preparing me for things to look for that I was in a position to make an offer (pending survey of course) after the first look at the boat. Many of you have helped over the last three years and I have tried to make the others benefit from my own knowledge. On the eve of this great American Holiday, this Canadian friend of yours says Thanks you all for the invaluable help and Thank you Phil for providing this forum. May youall (I lived in the south for 2 years) have a Very Happy ThanksGiving.
Thanks to Bly, Phil and Karisa and the posters!
Thanks to the crew at Sailboatowners.com I did not have to abandon my dream of coming over to my boat, running an internet business and again dream of cruising before getting too old! I have also learned more about boats (and human nature) than I would ever have thought possible. The great thing about this site (like a some nice companies I worked for until they got "taken over by the suits" ) is the open hearted good willed nature of most people who post on this site and almost total lack of nastiness. That's becuase the "vibes" are obvious, I think. Happy Thanksgiving and Aloha! Jim Willis
Thanks to the crew at Sailboatowners.com I did not have to abandon my dream of coming over to my boat, running an internet business and again dream of cruising before getting too old! I have also learned more about boats (and human nature) than I would ever have thought possible. The great thing about this site (like a some nice companies I worked for until they got "taken over by the suits" ) is the open hearted good willed nature of most people who post on this site and almost total lack of nastiness. That's becuase the "vibes" are obvious, I think. Happy Thanksgiving and Aloha! Jim Willis
Another form of Thanksgiving...
Thanks to all of you who have made this a great forum. My day wouldn't be complete without reading all the posts. I have certainly received a lot of help from all of you. One of my friends who is retired from the Navy sent me the following E-Mail If you're interested...... Another form of Thanksgiving... Please visit the Department of Defense web page below and sign a brief message thanking the men and women of the U.S. military services for defending our freedom. The compiled list of names will be sent out to our soldiers at the end of the month, National Military appreciation Month. So far, there are only about 2,004,650 names. Please pass it on to your e-mail friends. Takes 10 seconds...literally. http://www.defendamerica.mil/nmam.html Have a wonderful Thanksgiving & see you out on the water. Jack "Hey Jude"
Thanks to all of you who have made this a great forum. My day wouldn't be complete without reading all the posts. I have certainly received a lot of help from all of you. One of my friends who is retired from the Navy sent me the following E-Mail If you're interested...... Another form of Thanksgiving... Please visit the Department of Defense web page below and sign a brief message thanking the men and women of the U.S. military services for defending our freedom. The compiled list of names will be sent out to our soldiers at the end of the month, National Military appreciation Month. So far, there are only about 2,004,650 names. Please pass it on to your e-mail friends. Takes 10 seconds...literally. http://www.defendamerica.mil/nmam.html Have a wonderful Thanksgiving & see you out on the water. Jack "Hey Jude"
A hint of warmth!
Thanks to all for giving me hints of warmer days and sailing in all kinds of weather. Not much sailing in Moscow in the winter! I'm here for about 4 months and it's just starting to get cold. Thanks to all for helping me keep warm. s/v Anodyne 1983 36'
Thanks to all for giving me hints of warmer days and sailing in all kinds of weather. Not much sailing in Moscow in the winter! I'm here for about 4 months and it's just starting to get cold. Thanks to all for helping me keep warm. s/v Anodyne 1983 36'
Thanks
For the conversation, info,and the sharing of good and bad. We are pretty blessed living in a country that sailing can consume us like it does (This includes you Canadians). We do not worry about food nor lodging. We are worried about why our toilets don't flush. Thanks Peggy for your part. Thank you Phil and staff for making this site accessible and organized. I am thank full I have 5 healthy kids, my wife, all my brothers and sisters, My 80 year old father and my mother. I am thankful........ r.w.landau
For the conversation, info,and the sharing of good and bad. We are pretty blessed living in a country that sailing can consume us like it does (This includes you Canadians). We do not worry about food nor lodging. We are worried about why our toilets don't flush. Thanks Peggy for your part. Thank you Phil and staff for making this site accessible and organized. I am thank full I have 5 healthy kids, my wife, all my brothers and sisters, My 80 year old father and my mother. I am thankful........ r.w.landau
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