To me summer officially begins with Memorial Day. The first weekend I feel justified prioritizing fun. The beginning of days when soaking in the sun and reading magazines, becomes a productive use of time.
Living in coastal Maine during the summer is very special. There is something about this place that is hard to describe unless you experience it first hand. Those that have, know exactly what i’m talking about. If you haven’t…imagine the quintessential summer day from childhood spent on the beach. It’s almost like taking a step back in time to when life was simpler. No doubt the reason so many people flock here in the summer months to vacation. The long sunny days, lobster shacks and ice cream stands are cherished after the harsh winter. You have to enjoy every second of it, for it will soon be over.
Our first summer here we spent a lot of time boating on Casco Bay. Last summer we spent a lot of time working, but we missed the ocean. So back in march when we saw this baby on craigslist, we jumped on it. A small, classic downeast style boat that was made in Maine. This boat is amazing for many reasons but my top two are { #1: it is super fuel efficient, so we can use it a lot } { #2 we can beach it and explore the many islands that surround us in Casco Bay }
As to be expected, we wanted to do some upgrades and personalizations. Mr. Man is 100% responsible for this from research to execution, and he did a dam good job. I gave my opinion, and helped with the boot stripe.
Almost doesn’t look like the same boat. I am sure he did a lot of things I probably don’t know about or even understand.
We have…
- Had a helm seat cover made
- Painted the bottom black
- Installed a GPS, Fish Finder, Radio & AUX charger
- Installed a Swim Step
- Applied Boot Stripe ( Not sure we like this yet)
- Got ropes & Bumpers
- Obtained a slip in Freeport, just a 5 min drive from the deli & house
- Had a bow rail installed
- Put her in the water and taken our maiden voyages
We Have Not…
- Had a canvas dodger made
- Named Her
- Picked up some fishing equipment
The dogs have adjusted well. They have only been out on the boat once. It was freezing cold. They were perfectly comfortable. As always, they adapt to where we are. I just ordered them some badass Ruff Wear life vests.
It is often said, that a boat ‘is hole in the water you throw money in to’. While they are certainly expensive to maintain, and hidden costs lurk around every turn. It is a small price to pay for the enjoyment. To feel the sun on your skin and smell the ocean breeze. To me there is nothing at all in the world like being out on the ocean.
It looks like our Memorial weekend will be filled with rain, so I am sitting inside day dreaming about the many boating adventures ahead…
