Thistle has a new aluminum mast and boom to cut down on the maintenance. The mast and rigging is lighter and that has improved the sailing performance of the boat. The rigging is now made out of Dyneema which is stronger than wire. Our initial test sails were in less than 10 knots of wind and everything looked good. Then we went out when it was blowing and we found out a few things that were too long, too short, or got stuck. This sent us back for multiple adjustments.
Tuesday we caught a fair tide and made record time sailing to Mystic. Catching a fair ride can increase your boat speed by 40 percent. Otherwise you will be eating tide – not fun! We were able to anchor in our favorite spot in front of Mystic Seaport Museum. The seaport has a special boat on display Maiden. Maiden was the first boat raced by an all female crew in the Whitbread round the world race. The experts were stunned when the girls won two difficult legs in the southern ocean. The boat was saved from the scrap heap and restored to racing condition. The boat is used to promote women sailing and education programs similar to Stem. Eric had a tour of the boat and was impressed it’s such a rock solid ocean racer. Dawn Riley from Detroit was on the boat originally 32 years ago. Check out the movie Maiden to learn more.
Sharon skipped the boat tour and saw the chick flick Where the Crawdads Sing! I enjoyed every minute in the air condition theater after a mile walk in humid weather. The movie follows the book and does not disappoint in my opinion.
Sharon’s Books
Bittersweet by Colleen McCullough – 5/5
The story revolves around two sets of twins – which I loved. Only thing better than a sister is a twin sister.
Steal by James Patterson 3/5
Horsewoman by James Patterson 5/5 no crimes involved
Eric’s Book
American Moonshot by Douglas Brinkley
4/5. John Kennedy effort to promoting space and rocketry from 1930’s until his death.
Have a great week! We miss family and friends but are enjoying our time together!
Fair winds!
Eric and Sharon
Trading Up in 2019 
Hi Eric and Sharon,
Great to see your blog. We think of you often. Elk Rapids just keeps getting busier. LaCorda Smith passed and they sold her house. A nice young couple with two girls. Jan Digivanni also paseed. Think those are the only changes. Unless you didn’t know that Duddies house was basically torn down and rebuilt. The gal that wanted your folks house bought it. That’s all. Life is good.
Geff and Mary Sue
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I’m glad they bought a house. I didn’t like the idea they walked between our house and their parents over your front lawn. To top it off the low ball offer.
We have stopped at your house but knew you probably wouldn’t be there.
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