Like Lindbergh's "Spirit of St. Louis,"

I was "we" with many water craft.

All but one was a sailboat,

including the last. We parted ways

ten years ago when I grew too old

to handle it solo.

I often regret that decision.

Today is a typical cold, raw,

December day ... the knees

are achy ... it feels and looks like rain.

Ten years ago I'd be headed down

to the marina with

a few provisions and a good book ...

ready to unleash "Bright Wings" to the

elements en-route to

Inati Bay. Drop the hook ... fire up

trusty, toasty diesel stove ... stretch out

on a comfy bunk for

a good read ... then row dinghy ashore.

Other than woodland creatures and fish,

We'd be alone out there.

If that boat were still mine, I'd board her

right now! Would not head for Inati ...

would spend the night aboard!

Bob Markey lives in Bellingham.