04/05/2007

Today was the maiden Texas voyage for our sailboat, affectionately called Father Time (and aptly named as this boat has seen many more moons than I have). Despite my concerns about the reliability of Father Time, Nick bravely headed out on Clear Lake for an afternoon of cruising. I was placed in charge of the busy toddler, and after an hour or so of chasing him around the boat docks, decided a trip for ice cream was in order. We headed off to Jack In The Box to get an Oreo Shake and Chocolate Cake. Although I'm sure these particular treats would make a nice accent to the interior of our car, I opted for sharing our treat outside on the boat docks. We could leave the mess for the seagulls.

As I was pulling the car into the parking lot I noticed something out on the lake that caught my eye: A motor boat was slowly towing a much smaller boat behind it. "Huh," I thought to myself, "Something about that boat is reminiscent of good ole Father Time." Surely, it could not be, as sailboats are "nearly unsinkable" and ours, in particular, was in such fantastic condition that I was sure no catastrophe could possibly befall it. (eye rolling) Nathan and I were privy to a show while we ate our dessert. Daddy had some troubles, it seemed, and arrived back to us soaking wet. He was the lesser of the two casualties, however, as Father Time arrived back like a defeated soul...dragging it's sails behind it....sitting a little lower than usual and carrying quite a bit of water. As it turns out Father Time had completely capsized and were it not for the kindness of an aquatic good samaritan, we may not have had so much as a rudder to bring home in memory of our fine vessel.

It was a decision we all dreaded making, but at least one of us (I'm raising my hand) knew would someday have to be made. What should be done with this unreliable boat that flips at the thought of a mere breeze? With all the emotional significance of the boat, burning it was really out of the question as was taking it back out to the lake for an appropriate sea burial. Instead, we've decided to transform this boat into a unique toy box/play area for Nathan. We will remove all obvious threats (loose screws, pieces of crab, etc.) and set it in his room as a play piece. I think this is a fabulous solution. All are pleased (or as pleased as can be considering the situation). Father Time lives on...but like everything that ages, just can't do all he used to. He'll be sitting out the next race offerred by the local yacht club, but we acknowledge he fought a valiant fight. Well done, little Father Time, well done. For the last time, "Land Ho!"