Maine Windjammer Swimming

Good Morning Everyone! Let’s not even talk about the thermometer this morning. I am getting a new one down at the hardware store today. Although ours isn’t broken I feel like I just need something new to tell you so am hoping a new thermometer might read something different than 0 degrees. I don’t mind the cold as much as I do reporting the same thing to you every day.

Cold is this relative sort of thing. I love the cold. The cold is my friend. I can always put more clothes on during the winter but on a hazy, hot, and humid summer day there are only so many clothes I can legally take off. Thank goodness for that you say. So if the cold is just a state of mind then what do we say about all the swimmers in the accompanying picture. I came across these non-retouched pictures this morning to prove that 1) the water in Maine is not as cold as some folks say or that 2) Maine windjammer passengers are a special breed.

I promise I did not digitally scan the swimmers into this scene. These are real people, really swimming, and not stunt doubles. The kids are loving the ride on Dad. Please be forewarned; I do not do this for all my sailing guests.

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Hail Mary

My heart is heavy with sadness as I write this particular blog. Since the beginning of August our dear friend and cook for the last 12 years, Mary Barney, had been struggling with cancer. I have intentionally respected Mary’s privacy and I apologize to you for not sharing any news about Mary’s health sooner. On Monday afternoon Mary passed away very peacefully at home, surrounded by friends and “family”. Her departure was as graceful as the rest of her life. Many people, including Jen, have been doing heroic work to support Mary these last few weeks. Oddly enough Mary was never very excited about transitions though this was about the fastest transition she ever made. And as I struggle to let go of Mary I realize I am terrible with transitions as well. We used to joke about how we liked things just the way they are, thank you very much, so why change what is working already even if it might be less labor intensive. Hard works is its own reward. I used to joke about getting Mary a Cui...

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