Hove to off Swan Point

in the January/February 2008 issue. Needless to say it’s a real treat to have a byline in this great magazine. I’ve been reading WoodenBoat since the first issue over 30 years ago. I’ve had a number of responses to the article, one from the brother of some one I went to high school with. Thanks for the opportunity Matt. (WB Editor)

Spoke with the stove builder, Andrew Morse yesterday and he said he sold several stoves to folks who read my review and has had calls from Europe and beyond. WoodenBoat has a world wide reach. Too cool.

Had a pleasant sail yesterday morning. Happy to see it so warm for mid-January. Last year this time we had solid ice in the upper Bay. I’ve had to turn off the pump off only once so far this winter.

I hope readers don’t think I’m the one in plaid showing clear Man-Sardine love. I copied the image and have it on Flickr with the title “Man-Sardine Love”, a new DSM. Or it could be titled “Russ in 2023.”

Hove to off Beatons today. Nice breeze out of the northwest, about 5 to 10 knots. Cool enough for a fire and the usual. Out for about an hour or so; going no further than Swan Point and a run over to the club. Next sail will be decidedly warmer with no need for a fire.

Derelict barge still aground near Swan Point. No response from the NJDEP despite repeated calls. You all are welcome to call them at 1.877.927.6337 to request the removal of this abandoned barge and potential pollution hazard. Note the drums and canisters left loose on the deck.

Tom Beaton and the first Beaton Sneakbox. Varnish work just about done. Work continues on Quest, the Watch Hill 15 being totally rebuilt.

as Christmas readiness is the order of the day.

Went to a surprise 65th Birthday Party for John Browne, Jr. He is our dear friend and a long time “rabbi” for me at CIC/CNA. John has been in a battle with a terrible cancer and has undergone a liver transplant at the Mayo Clinic. John and his wife Pat are a true inspiration in their fight. John’s active in raising awareness for the need for more transplant donors. I’m carrying such a card as a result of his example. Thanks, John.

John and his grandson Alex.

Sylvia Levine, John and myself at the Pennsauken Country Club Saturday.

Later we went to a cocktail party at the Hordt’s with Dave and Cheryl.

Ready for the northeaster Saturday morning.

Merganser at the head of the Glimerglass this morning.

Suzanne at the end of another faithful season.

The Lucas H15 waiting her turn in the “Salon” for an extreme makeover. Saw her during a turn around the yard. Raw and cool out though not cold. Needless to say the thought of a warm cabin and water ready for tea made it all bearable.

Calm after the storm.

Tea at the steam; just about ready for a dollop or three of Tortola’s finest.

There’s Carl. My old friend, Carl Danish; certified wooden-boat-nut and ageless longboarder.

Decorated our Christmas tree this afternoon, with a slow fire perking along as the wind’s come up from the NNW and the temperature’s dropping.

See you all soon.