When a boat is over forty years old you don’t expect the
varnish to sparkle, as is the case with ‘Sandpiper’, but there is something
about the tarnished wood that makes me feel at ease. She’s not that pristine
that I’m afraid to work her because I might spoil surfaces by scratching them.
I can feel comfortable and be at home, knowing that a blemish here and there
will make little difference.
Over the years and at various times she has had to manage a
bit of neglect when left in the open; she has been attacked by the elements:
rain, sun, frost and snow. Therefore, I’m surprised how well she has come out
of it, with only some crazing of the gelcoat, staining of the woodwork, and a few
rusty fittings.
Today, I gave her woodwork a fresh coat of varnish to cheer
her up and to make her feel loved. With all the cosmetic attention I’ve been lavishing
upon her lately she really does have a broad smile and her teeth truly sparkle.
She has invited me to share a jaunt on the water, and if only the weather would
cooperate, I would be delighted to have our first date.
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