That time again

It seems like just yesterday that we put Aquilon in the water and sailed her for the first time this year. Now, she sits with bare poles and no Bimini, waiting to be pulled from the water, set down on her cradle, for her long winters rest. Maybe I am just getting older, but it seems that the years slide by faster and faster, each one fading into memory. I can remember the few good sailing days we shared this year, and those memories with my first mate will be cherished.

Two weekends ago, we spent a day pulling down the sails, folding, and storing them. We also took down the Bimini: The canvas top has to be replaced over the winter after weathering one too many Midwest thunderstorms. We also have wood to sand and varnish, power wash and paint the bottom, wash and wax the boat, winterize the engine, change the oil and filters, and generally clean and store all of the gear. There's a lot of work to do on a sailboat, but for me it is both relaxing and rewarding. There is, after all,  nothing more majestic than a well maintained boat under sail.

Well, the boat didn't come out as planned. The engine wasn't pumping water and the marina owner was worried about overheating. So this weekend I went back over to the lake and replaced the impeller on the water pump and then drove the boat over to be pulled out. 

While on the crane the boat almost fell when the rear straps slipped on the muddy hull. It was definately a "pucker" moment. After having the bottom cleaned and repositioning the straps, Aquilon was set down on her cradle. I winterized the engine and stored all her gear and said goodbye to the old girl. 

Update: the Bimini is at the upholstery shop, so Aquilon will be sporting a nice new hat in the spring. I also plan to pull most of the teak off of the deck and redo it over the winter months. After the power wash we found some areas on the hull that need repainted too. Lots of work ahead before we splash her next season. But I'm up for the challenge and already looking forward to next year.