how old? how tough?


Although he suffers from Krohns Disease, Erik (above) loves to portray the tough Viking image. He sails Tessy in the North Sea, seemingly unafraid of storm conditions. The images of Tessy being overwhelmed by icey breakers as he navigates towards port, are hard to overlook. Let's say Erik's testosterone rating is quite high. 

So, as I convalesce at home after a procedure to remove a benign skin cancer & anticipate surgery in the new year to remove a cataract, I have niggling doubts. Am I up to this cruising life? Even if I avoid the North Sea, there remains the Tasman Sea on my doorstep, can I play hard enough? 
Well, the thing is, I'm going anyway. And, if i have my boat's "systems" working & make myself familiar with them under pressure of weather & lack of sleep, I should be fine. But a nervousness persists, which will keep me sharp. 
Then there's 84 year old Jeanne Socrates who is currently cruising the South Pacific, on her own. Her YouTube videos are remarkable on how they portray her easy feminine ways of getting the job done, or just enjoying the cruising life, on a calm & relaxed manner. She really is inspiring, not on a heroic way, but by
 demonstrating that a good logical sailing & boat care will suffice. Yes, she seems to rely on the help of other cruisers to free reefing line jams & he odd snagged anchor chain, but she exceeds most other sailors in her vast knowledge & experience of sailing & navigating. 
Obviously Erik relies on his power to get across an ocean &  Jeanne, her competencies. I have neither in their quantities, but Jeanne's lifestyle gives me a gentle nudge to; get prepared, know my boat, keep a weather eye & sail far away from the supposed safety of the couch.
(I do believe "the couch" killsoee people than storms at sea.)

My time is nigh to be riding that high.   

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