- by Dianne
Wally has said it well, we were all newbies at some point in joining the SS group thus perhaps unsure of the type of persons we might encounter.
Just to bring the new members up to date on some happenings ... in February, 2004, John organized the first Bonefish Bash and generously opened up his home and provided his boat to a group of strangers. He took a chance, not knowing what kind of reprobates might invade his beautiful, peaceful premises. There were about 13 of us in all and most of us had never met before.
The previous fall, Wally who then lived within a few hours drive came down and spent a day sailing with me, we had great winds and a fun sail. By the time of the Bash, Wally had sailed his boat down to the Keys and arrived with friends aboard. Within hours of meeting, it was as though we had all known each other for years and the days of visiting together and racing went all too quickly. I think I can speak for everyone that we established friendships that will last our lifetimes.
In June, 2004, three of us met up in Turkey for 2 glorious weeks of sailing aboard a member's Nauticat 38. She lives aboard there and generously provided her boat for a holiday of a lifetime. Again, we had not met before yet quickly established lasting friendships. We were akin to the Golden Girls except there were four of us.
In July, 2004, Jeanette organized the first Annapolis Bash, which again was an enormous success.
The 2nd annual Bonefish Bash was held again at John's place in Febraury, 2005, and was again a roaring good time for all who participated.
Jeanette again held the 2nd Annapolis Bash and by this time all who attended were old friends.
This March will be the 3rd Bonefish Bash where we are looking forward to seeing our buddies, meeting new friends and racing against Gypsy Wind for the second time.
This August Alan will be hosting the 3rd summer bash ---- the Canuck Bash at his home in Oakville, Canada.
Members who have undertaken to host a bash, have put a lot of work and soul into making them a success. For all the Bashes, anyone is welcome to sign up on a first come first serve basis given space availability. Maggie began SS with a vision of the type of group she wanted to maintain and we all feel that she has far surpassed her goal. There are members who may be out long-term cruising, some are lurkers and some likely have forgotten that they even joined at one time. For those members that remain involved, each individual that I have met is outstanding. Each brings their own unique traits and talents which continue to enhance this group as a whole. I don't know of any other group on the internet that has the quality of members that SS does. And yes .... if anyone does seriously misbehave ..... they are no longer tolerated or welcome.
Last spring, I had some problems with my rudder. Beverly got things rolling and I received numerous offers of help plus many off group e-mails containing much good advice from experienced and knowledgeable members which allowed me to get launched and sailing much sooner than expected. This past August, Beverly flew up and spent 5 days aboard with me sailing the 1,000 Islands. To end my sermon - we only get out of life what we put into it - we each took a risk and opened ourselves to new experiences and people - and the results have been incredible. To those members that haven't gotten involved as yet - try it - and see for yourself
- Dianne
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