Fat snowflakes are drifting lazily past our windows. The first snowfall of the season is an novelty. In a few weeks it won’t be. We tied the record low this morning—18°F/-7.7°C—that isn’t really cold, but Chicago has a serious climate and when a record low or high is broken or tied here it is noteworthy.
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Yesterday morning I reluctantly telephoned the boat yard. A week ago yesterday I was told I would have the estimate for GANNET’s keel repair in a few days. Last Monday marked five weeks since I first requested the estimate. I try to be patient. I don’t like to repeatedly call people, but, while I was courteous, my frustration was obvious on the telephone yesterday and I did not care. A few hours later the estimate was emailed to me. It is higher than I hoped, but about what I expected, amounting to half of what I paid for GANNET when I bought her six years ago.
I pause because it does not seem that long ago.
The estimate includes antifouling, something for which I have never before paid. I’ve always done my own, but the yard does not permit owners to work on their boats in the yard.
I have told them the work must be completed by December 31.
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I told Carol this morning that I am ready for a change. I don’t know what. I don’t have anything in mind. But I am.