The light, when it appeared at the end of the tunnel, was a glimmer of hope and excitement, but as it now draws near I see its truer form, that of a fast approaching cliff-edge. And the momentum I’ve cultivated through this process now forces me forward towards it much faster than I feel comfortable.
Having said that, the launch date is booked! The morning of the 5th of June in Portland. (Give me a shout if you’d like more details).
And while on the face of it I appear to be on track, I’m simultaneously feeling my world spinning. For I found safety and security in long dark months of work, comfort in my daily trials and tribulations for they were mine alone, and peace in the knowledge that I was on my way to the sea. Yet now as I see the sea before me, a sea I have sailed my whole life! it feels not like a natural progression, but a great leap into the unknown.
Despite my trepidations I am almost there. The gas, water, bilge pumps, mast fittings, and Windvane are all ready to go! Shes also been recently anti-fouled.
So the remaining jobs to get her launch ready is to touch up antifoul under the trailer supports, get the rudder back on, and fit the new running and standing rigging onto the mast, ready to be stepped.
I am also planning more woodwork, some of which is essential and some not so. New floor, galley seat, companionway step, bulkhead trim, more painting etc. is all in the works.
Not long now!!
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