017 Aboard the Sea Marie: Thoughts on the Eve of Departure
Great Loop Final Prologue. August 28, 2016.
“Solo adventures are so powerful, transfixing. They remind us who we are and what we can do when it's just the road, the sky, and us. It's a chance to get in tune, to find your essence, and seek out the kind of clarity which only pure solitude can grant”. -Hannah Kelling.
Great Loop Departure Cedar Point Marina Aug 28, 2016
As evening quietly descends into darkness on the waters of the marina, my eyes grow accustomed to accepting the faint light off the stern of the sailing vessel Sea Marie. With Mickey on my lap, we are witnessing the last glimmer of a Cedar Point Marina sunset for this year. Tomorrow, God willing, we cast off these dock lines from this port we have called home for this past summer for the longest solo journey of my life. Looking ahead, this small 22-foot long and 8-foot wide coastal weekender with a 9.8 horsepower outboard will be touching the waters of the Great Lakes and mighty inland rivers to the Gulf of Mexico, across the Gulf to the state of Florida, up the eastern coast, and following the Erie Canal to its beginning at the Niagara River. Then homeward bound to the western basin of Lake Erie to cross my wake in Sandusky upon my completion.
There is no hard and fast itinerary beyond the next day. I am now more literally than figuratively 'casting my fate to the wind'. I am well aware there will be victorious days to rejoice in jubilation. And there will be times suffering losses when one feels all is lost and forgotten. It's during those dark times I will retreat to that little room in my mind to recalibrate my compass, chart a new course, and with firm determination plow ahead forever keeping that ultimate goal of returning back to this… my home port.
Sailing a ship as in living life requires significant knowledge and a good amount of intestinal fortitude in one's ability to weather any storm. There's some comfort in knowing the sun will rise on a new day to provide new challenges to those who accept the journey. The Sea Marie is prepared. Mickey is ready and I… I am steadfast.
So say a prayer, and send good thoughts.
Raise a glass and be not distraught…
Hark now, hear the sailors cry
Smell the sea and feel the sky.
Let your soul and spirit fly
Into the mystic.
"Into the Mystic | Van Morrison | Lyrics
Until tomorrow Fair winds and gentle seas.
Comments from 2016:
Brian Bortz Fair winds and calm seas to you Henry! Enjoy the adventure and be safe.
Sandy Courey Good luck in your journey Henry Krzemien, stay safe, and may God guide you through your journey. Keep us informed of your travels...
Kathy J. Armada How truly amazing your journey will be dear man. ~ The goal is not to sail the boat, but rather to help the boat sail herself.- John Rousmaniere.
Lisa Pacini Clark Be safe in your journey!!
Barb Cerrito Enjoy Henry! Wishing you fair winds, calm seas, and a fantastic journey.
Joan Johnson Fair winds and Godspeed.
Pogo Bob Obviously (since you've begun to wax philosophic), It's getting real. I'm excited for you, Henry! You are embarking on a journey that many dream of and few attempt. Your vessel is well found and you've done your homework. Go forth with confidence and enjoy the trip of a lifetime. If I can help in any way, you have my number. Fair winds (I won't wish you following seas... They drive the tiller pilot crazy!)
Sandy Ujczo Durbin Break a leg Henry.....safe safe exciting travels!
Tim Hagan May you sail against the wind only when sailing with it takes you off course. May the wind be at your back on your journey. All the best.
Laura B RN Sending happy and safe wishes your way Henry! Xo
Sherry Kordic-Opatrny Safe travels!
Robin Swoboda How exciting! Godspeed, Henry!
Edward Durma Good luck on your epic journey Hank, my thoughts and prayers are with you for a safe journey.
Nancy Horvath Be safe, and take good care of your kitty companion & yourself! I look forward to your updates!!
Tracie Worden Bon Voyage
Bob Meredith Calm seas, and safe harbor, Captain! Keep us up to date!
Susan Christine Safe travels Henry!
David J. Watkins Have a safe journey!
Scott Stanley Sikorski safe travels Henry, will be following your posts.
Barbara Milter Safe travels!!
Ymaria Lekutis, heartfelt words....did you think God's not a dealer? He stands by your side and helps the time and the cards fall into place. Vaya Con Dios. please write something a lot of times.
Frank Cramer Safe travels buddy. Hope lots of fun memories and moments for you!
Jeff Cochran Going to be awesome!
Joe Maichrye May God keep you safe Hank.
Jim Hinton Beautiful picture and beautiful words Henry. Thank you for sharing this experience with us along the way. God Bless!
Dave Litespeed Safe travels my friend
Kristi Mele Best of luck and safe travels Henry.
Henry Krzemien RN Little did you know that little sailboat Christmas ornament you gave me years ago was the inspiration that kept this dream alive. A million thank you's sent your way.
Camille Sandrock Henry, as you throw off the bowlines and sail away from your safe harbor, may the wind guide you and always be in your direction!! Let your dreams set sail, and have a safe and adventurous journey!! (From your sailing friends, Camille and John)!
Henry Krzemien RN May my adventure be as fulling and exciting as yours. Thanks, Camille, looking forward to seeing you and John in Florida later this year.
Camille Sandrock, Please do get in touch with us!!!
Mary Lou Safe travels God's speed to you.
Ed Kowalski Good luck, have a great time, and stay safe!
Mary Jo Cartledgehayes Traveling mercies.
John Sopczyk Best of luck to you Henry, may God be at your side on your great journey.
Barry Raja Check Manistee on your voyage.
Henry Krzemien RN Will do. With a name like Manistee, it's got to be good.
Sherry Thaler Sail away safely in the watchful eyes of God who's always with you, and then your special guardian angel guides you back home again!
Joyce Bailey God Bless.