Which of course was a theme in the book. But it's a major part of why we go where we go on our boats. In this case, the rift in the crew with some wanting to head southerly to warmer water, and some wanting to head down east.

I could relate as our boats destination is more of a democratic process than where I may want to go.

Anyway, that's an interesting subject for those of us who sail on the coast of Maine. Years ago, a writer by the name of Same Lowe did an article called, "In search of the Old Maine" I enjoy his writing and the article was a good one.

The article came back to me this summer as we waited for hurricane Earl in Lake Tashmoo, MV. Sam who lives on Marthas Vineyard had an article in the local paper about hurricanes past in his life there. I think he sees much change around him on Marthas Vineyard, and rightly so. On the other hand, I spent some time talking to a clam digger working the shallows. His talk and methods were quite interesting. I felt I had found the old Marthas Vineyard in the man digging clams in Lake Tashmoo.

So I take exception to where he may find the old Maine, and where I may find it. It's more of a personal mindset than a geographical destination for me. Some have to go farther afield than others to find what they're looking for. It's all good I think.

Anyway, it was nice how this personal conflict was resolved on Dog Star. Everyone got what they wanted, a successful sail.