Straight from The Horse's Mouth

We purchased the boat in Florida from John W. and his wife. They'd lived aboard for fourteen years and she was their vehicle for adventure and joy. She'd protected them in heavy weather and she glistened like sunlight entertaining guests.

When we took possession of her we could see how dearly she'd been cared for. John had suffered such regard for her that parting from her must have levied torture. The couple shed tears on more than one occasion during the sale.

Our years on s/v Turn One developed in us the same attachment. We'd too been kept safe in storms and enjoyed many happy afternoons gliding over translucent seas with dolphins at our bow. We sated our need for independence from the materialism of land life and cultivated an appreciation for self-reliance. The all of it changed who we are.

Now it's over, the dream is gone; s/v Turn One, who recently survived Hurricane Ike, has been sold. (We have other dreams, just not that one.) Glenn and I can no longer imagine we could simply load up and take her out for another adventure. The mood is somber. Now, we are wholly and fully here, our minds not divided. One thing I try to remember in this life, it's best to keep the then and the now and the what's-to-be as close together in your thoughts as you can. It's when the gaps creep in, when you separate out the intervals and dwell on them, that you can't bear the sorrow, the sense of loss. Of course, we're thrilled to be at the bookstore, but there's nothing much to compare to living on the edge.

Glenn and Laura's "Turn One" Novelty, being a cousin to adventure, is a rare and welcomed thing. Yet, we find it every day at The Horse's Mouth. There seems too little time and too many books to read, too many people to get to know and learn their stories. So, still our everyday contains novelty and adventure. Now we nurture the valuable skill of wanting what we have and take all opportunities to grow.

And grow we will continue to do this week. On Thursday, January 15th at 6PM, THM hosts the first Writer's Group meeting. All writers are encouraged to join. Many forms of writing will be addressed including poetry and fiction, and my favorite; memoir. We'll be led by various teachers once a month, and enjoy the benefits of socializing with like-minded people here in Buffalo and from surrounding communities. There is a wealth of artists here and THM is calling them out to share. You need not be an accomplished or published writer, just a passionate one. We will be a compassionate group, not critical.

Glenn went to give s/v Turn One her last bath on Sunday. We are truly saddened to let her go. Tears dripped down my cheeks at the sight of him in pieces in his frustration. I could see the pain as he squared his shoulders, setting out to face her in his last goodbye. ( I can't see her in person, it aches.) Just this... 'Thanks, ol' girl..the life you gave us was immense and gratitude fills our hearts forever.'

Come join our writer's group. You will love the adventure.