Sailing Season Here at Last!

Spring weather finally made it to Missouri. When a late afternoon meeting was cancelled, I called Suz. "Let's go sailing!" She shut off her computer and headed home. We were packed and headed to the lake listening to Jimmy Buffet and Eric Stone.

We plotted and planned to be as efficient as we could be to minimize the time in the slip and mazimize the time sailing. We arrived at the marina at about 4:45. To our surprise, Sail La Vie was sailing out of her slip!

We grabbed a cart and headed for "Dragonfly." Our plan was flawless. Suz released the bungee cords on the winter cover while I pulled up the bubbler. We folded the cover and threw it in the cart. I ducked below, turned on the battery power, opened the engine through hulls and grabbed the Genoa while Suz opened the lazarette for the gib sheets and wench handle, and to stow the companion way doors, pedestal cover and wench covers.

We had just finished hoisting the genoa when we heard an excited "Ahoy Sailors!" Shirla, Dennis and their little dog Fritz were on the dock. "Come aboard" Suz instructed as she started the diesel. I caste off the dock lines and glanced at my watch...5:15. We had made great time.

Suz at the helm with a glass of wine March 18

The warm breeze blew us gently down the lake. A bottle of wine later, we returned to the dock. It was a short sail, but a good one. Sailing season is here at last.

Dragonfly back in her slip as the sun sets March 18