Being on the water = a wonderful way to ground yourself
In the six years SpinSheet has challenged its readers to log 100 days on the water within the calendar year, there are only a few champs who’ve hit 100 six years in a row. SpinSheet Century Club member Michael Jewell is one of them. As of this writing, he's reached 140 days on the water in 2019. Here’s a bit about his journey this season…
What motivated you this year to get out there?
Beauty, peace, joy, friendships, and escape all factor into my desire to get out on the water.
Can you share three highlights from the season?
1. Southern Bay cruising trip that racked up 14 days.
2. Celebrating my 100th day on the water by sailing with friends under the full moon.
3. Sailing in the ocean with big breeze and waves, nothing like surfing a big boat down waves.
Did you experience any scary days (storms, emergencies, etc)?
Yes, it seemed like there were several occasions this year that made me realize our weather systems may be getting more severe. I was hit by one storm (my error) underway that included heavy rains and strong winds during the morning hours. Always check the forecast on the morning of departure as things are likely to change daily. Another storm blew in while at anchor one night that caused us to drag 200 feet or so. Fortunately we had leeway and the anchor reset when the initial winds subsided.
Favorite wildlife sightings?
Dolphins on the Chesapeake! Crazy pelicans trying to land atop the mast while we were sailing along at 5-6 konts, one actually stuck the landing.
Did you take any newcomers out sailing or doing some other kind of boating?
Yes, I was able to introduce a few people to sailing this year. During the Summer Sailstice, and just in the course of friends inviting friends managed to expose a handful of people to joys of sailing.
What did you get out of being on the water so much?
Good times, relaxation, experiences with friends that will stay with me for a long time.
What would you recommend to someone considering the 2020 Century Club?
Just do it! While it may cause you to leave work early, reach out to friends or social groups. I find the water to be a wonderful place to ground yourself. I don’t regret any day I spent on the water, but there a few days I didn't go that perhaps in retrospect I should have. I bet there are a bunch of folks who "would" make it if they kept a log, and your log allows you to reflect/remember those occasions. Just do it.
