Close Reach

When a wind-powered vessel sails abeam of the wind, it's called a "reach". The nearer the point of sail to the direction from which the wind is coming, the "closer" the reach--and the greater the heel. Yesterday was one of the most fun days I have had in years--Sheryl and I were invited sailing by good friends Steve & Claire. They had been planning this for weeks, but totally surprised me. Wow. To be on a 28' sloop on a mild sea on a close reach with sumptious provisions among people you love--maybe that's what Heaven will be like. Claire even said, at one point, "It's all about you, Jon!" which of course it's not, but it was very BOUNTIFUL of her to say so.
It is, additionally, extremely reassuring to know that Sheryl and Joshua will be within close reach of many friends like Steve and Claire while I'm gone. Thanks a million, Guys.

Semper Fi, Jon G. Moran