June 12 Fairwinds to all who ply the Waves

There is sadness in dropping our lines in Tobermory and heading back to Oban.  It is there that I will have to say goodbye to a person who has been my mentor, safe-harbour and greatest of friends. When he steps off the boat the sea will be a bit saltier with the tears I am I certain to shed. The journey will continue and although different it is with enthusiasm that I look forward to the next stage. More exploration will resume in July.

Since we left Lymington early in May we have learned so much about our coast, its waters, the people who live here and about ourselves. It seems a lifetime lived in just a few weeks. The beauty of our Island has left us in awe and the richness of life that inhabits the shore and the water was a great surprise. We now feel a duty to cherish, protect and respect this great bounty that has been bestowed upon us. The variety of people and the diversity of culture from place to place makes this island a rich tapestry. The British are a generous people who in our expereince have been helpful, welcoming and warm. We have had to learn to live in small confines and sometimes difficult circumstances with grace and acceptance of eachother, and continue to work and laugh alongside one another. Rumline has brought out the best in us and we thank her for that.  I have learned to relaxed in this watery world and I have never been happier.

Rumline deserves recognition, she has been a steady reliable vessel with the ability to put huge smiles on our faces through the grace of her design and  sea-keeping abilities. I trust her implicitly and she forgives my mistakes. She has become more than a boat she is now a friend and my little safe world at sea.

Fair winds to you my friend and to all those who chose to go to sea.