We met fellow sailors Jack & Debbie Barkin on S/V (abbreviation for sailing vessel) "Iroquois" in Ludington. We have bumped into them at every port since. We left together for Beaver Island this morning, another beautiful sunny day. Once again our NOAA weather forecast was not accurate. We were expecting SW winds 10-20kts., not to be. We had to motor sail all the way. As we approached St. James Harbor, the winds increased suddenly to 30 kts. Docking was a treat. Jim the Harbor Master talked us through on radio and at the dock. It was a successful landing.
This has been a reflective voyage. We have so many memories sailing Lake Michigan. As we passed Northport, Charlevoix, Little Traverse Bay, sighting the Point of Harbor Springs, we reminisced.
We feel fortunate to be working toward new memories with this adventure.
On this 60 mile stretch we were attacked by "Kamikaze" stable flies (biters). "General Quarters" was sounded and all hands were on deck. The enemy was defeated by the "Big Guns" (double fly swatters). "Victory At Sea"! The word went out from the Captain to the Admiral "We have met the enemy and they are ours"! (See Photo)
We were greeted by friend, Pat Bonadeo, a Beaver Island summer resident. We enjoyed wine and cheese aboard "Chasseur" for the evening and made plans for Thursday.
We will be staying at Beaver Island for awhile to take advantage of the laid back, slower pace. The crew will get some needed rest, relaxation and exercise.
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| Suzanne at the helm leaving Leland |
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| St.James Harbor Lighthouse |
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| Battle at sea, armed with the big guns |
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| Preparing Dinner at Pat Bonadeo's house on Sand Bay |
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| Beaver Island Ferry to Charlevoix |
Looking good, you guys. Beaver island looks so beautiful. And nice call on the big guns! Love you both.
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