I've been remiss in my entries in this journal, but better late than never . . . so . . . last Sunday, our friends Alan and Patience took us for a marvelous breezy and sunny sail on their 32-foot boat. I hadn't been sailing in probably 30 years, and Cia had never sailed, so it was an adventure for both of us, and a beautiful one. The day was gorgeous -- cool and completely sunny with just enough wind to waft us along with ease and pleasure. We leaned back against the side of the boat and talked with the captain and mate as they guided us around the waters off the coast of Stonington. I recall so many scenes -- the boats and docks and homes and low hills in the distance, the look of the sea at its fairly lazy best, and especially the sky and clouds, simply majestic as they shifted shapes and glowed in changing ways. 
     It was an afternoon we will fondly recall, for sure. 

* * * * *

     On Tuesday, Matty and I drove out to our old Hope Valley home and set off in kayaks for a lazy evening paddle. We put in just across Wyoming Pond from the home where Matty spent many childhood years, and it was a blessing for both of us to travel up and down the waters that we spent hundreds of happy hours on many years ago. Matt, especially, seemed to enjoy the hours, talking of memories of the pond and river, and pointing out various birds and signs of animals he saw. It warmed this dad's soul to drift along beside my son on such a beautiful stretch of water. 

* * * * *

    This morning, Cia and I took one of the best bike rides ever, out Lantern Hill Road to Wolfneck Road and then around to Shewville Road and back home. I was back on my slim and light Specialized road bike, and I loved it. No more hybrid bike for me, at least not out on the roads. It's strictly an indoor trainer from now on. Who would prefer that to a slim, speedy silver road bike?? Cia, by the way, has improved so much as a cyclist, to the point where I often have a hard time keeping up with her. She just puts her head down and pumps steadily on with single-mindedness and consistency.