JimH wrote:


We sold our 32 footer as she was not able to help me bring the boat in when
the winds were moderate to high. (She would stand on the swim platform
while I sterned in, but could no longer do so).

She has had this neurological problem for the past 4 or so years, with it
getting a little worse every year; She has seen neurologists at the
University Hospital System and continues now sees a specialist at the
Cleveland Clinic, without any diagnosis to date as to the cause of her
condition. She has gone through tests after tests and underwent some sort
of injections to help stimulate the muscles and help them grow back.
Nothing helped.

When she started falling in her classroom (she was an elementary school
teacher, 2nd grade to be exact) it was obvious it was time for her to
retire. We sold the boat that same year (at the end of the 2003 boating
season).

We lasted 1 1/2 years without a boat (after owning boats for over 25 years)
and got the itch to get back into it.....but on a much smaller scale. We
ran across this 20 foot runabout late last summer and it met all our needs.
We purchased it and trailered it through the remainder of the season....
deciding to dock it this year to make life easier. ;-)

Thus the reason for selling the big boat and buying a smaller boat......one
that I can easily dock on mine own, regardless of the wind.



I firmly believe in getting what you need and nothing more.
If you don't plan on extended cruises or heading out into big open
waters...why have a large boat with all the expenses attached.
I crewed with a guy who did this for about 5 years.
I don't believe he actually spent one full night on his Mirage 33
(unless it was to sleep off a few drinks..or entertain a lady friend
right at his slip in the yacht squadron.
For daysailing and the occasional weekender, my 19' mini-cruiser suits
me just fine.
Now I can't wait until I get my new customized trailer to hook on the
back of the new Ranger pickup.