1 May, 2012

Dear Eric,

When I now recall our exciting week it is with the fondest of memories. I certainly learned more in the five day passage with you than any other sailing experience prior to our voyage together.

I can still recall vividly a number of moments, manning and pumping the manual bilge in the engine room and praying to God it was having a positive effect on the intake of water while you went off in search of where the breech had occurred. Or the following day we spent changing the storm sail and replacing with the mainsail as the storm sailsail had ripped along the leach.

But, what I take away most importantly though was the natural effect as the week progressed of becoming one with the sea and the surrounding natural environment as we shared our little world. That was a powerful experience we shared together and a very generous gift you bestowed upon me. You certainly nursed me through a number of dark moments. Thank you. Naturally I got some mileage from the exploits when I came ashore!! There was also a great sense of achievement when we arrived in Dingle.