"AFFINITY, a natural liking for or attraction to a person, thing or idea."

Good description of how most people feel about their boats. But I have a stronger affinity for this sailboat than those from the past. That could be because of the time I've spent in the off season, restoring CHRISTMAS. Boat restoration is a natural outlet for who I am and what I do. Sailor, designer/builder.

In 15 off-seasons, this old boat has taught me a lot. It's amazing how many tasks I recall, that I've performed twice. First the wrong way, second time, the right way. The later is sometimes harder(not always), but much more satisfying.

Unlike restoring an old house, a boat requires you become more creative in your process. A shrink wrap cocoon or a dark, cold, cramped cabin is much more challenging.

The serious boat restoration apprentice gets smarter as he(she) progresses and seeks a less hostile work environment.

You take any help you can get along the way.

The curve was steep on this old boat. I couldn't keep brightwork on my Cape Dory 28(2 teak coamings) but now find that one of the easy tasks. The worst task to date; removing 2 part Awlgrip paint that finally failed(my glass hull is very old).

In pulling these 'boat work' photos, I scroll past thousands of images of sailing with my family on CHRISTMAS. These sailing photos confirm the old boat did her part and sailed every season.

"AFFINITY, a natural liking for or attraction to a person, thing or idea."