The connection between man and dog is something very special. Why else would they be called “Man’s Best Friend”? Dogs are loyal, affectionate creatures, who show unconditional love to their human friends. According to the famous dog whisperer Cesar Millan, “Dogs are pack animals. They want to belong to a pack, whether it’s made up of dogs or humans.”
There’s also a very intimate connection between man and water. I’m not talking about the water we drink, but the ocean, the lake, the river, whatever source of water a man feels close to. In order to fulfill a man’s desire to be on or near the water, we sometimes use boats. My boat of choice is a sailboat. When I’m out sailing, a feeling of peacefulness overtakes me. It’s unlike any other method of relaxation. Just using the power of the wind to take me where I want to be.
When I can combine the closeness of being with my dog and being on the water in my sailboat, it’s such a great combination. It’s been a while since Karma, my faithful sidekick, has been sailing with me. So tonight when I decided to go on a sunset sail she was so excited to get on the water again. She used to go with me all the time, but she’s getting up in years and lately she’s just been holding down the couch while I go sailing.
I know she really enjoyed sailing tonight and so did I! Here’s a few photos.
Some of you sailors might recognize the line going across the cockpit. I’ve taken to cross-sheeting the jib when I’m single-handed. It seems to be really a lot easier to handle the jibsheet work since I can do it from the high side (where I’m sitting) when I’m heeled, rather than having to go to the low side. The only issue is stepping over the sheet if I must go forward.
Dude- that 3rd pic down! She adores you.
The feeling is mutual. 😀
Makes me miss my departed furry buddies.
I know buddy, that’s a tough thing to lose a pet.
Hey Mike – It’s been a long while. Thought I’d check in and see how you are doing.
Hey Stan! Yeah, it’s been a while since I’ve posted and since we’ve chatted. Everything is going well. Busy at work, family, life in general. I’m sailing about 1-2 times per week average. Not much really to write about on the blog, though. I’ll probably write a post in the future about this, but we’re kind of looking at taking a different fork in the road and traveling by 5th wheel RV instead of by boat when final retirement comes around. Wasn’t my primary plan, but a pretty good alternative where we’ll both be happy with our method of travel. It’ll be a different and exciting way to see and go places we haven’t before. Stay tuned… lol.
How’s everything with you?
Nice having a good travel companion.
Hope you’re still getting out on the water and enjoying yourself.
Take care,
Dan
That’s the truth! She still joins from time to time. I’m getting out at least once a week, sometimes more often. How’s everything with you going?