As I was taking this photo and a few others yesterday I got to thinking about a departed friend. One who shared his boat and time on the water with his friends. I think I might have overlooked how much that activity would pulled us together. From an all day fishing trip to a happy hour at McCormick and Schmick’s, maybe pulled up along Pier 6 listening to whomever was performing that night. Sometimes a short boat ride out past Fort McHenry or sometimes sitting and laughing together just sitting in the marina.
Large and small, they all head out to the Chesapeake Bay.
Photo by Mike Hartley
We all miss this person for much more than the boating experience. He was one of our brothers. A close-knit group of friends that does include one set of actual brothers. So as I look out on the water or a spot we were pulled into at the Inner Harbor I think back to both times of laughter and fun, but realize the hole left by his absence.
So today I will remember him on the bridge of his boat, wheel in one hand, a beer by his side and that Yeah Buddy grin on his face. Here’s to a great weekend ahead Dan. I know you would be leading the charge to Head out to the Bay.
