Massive thanks to chatting Lil, and apologies to all

[Laurin]

Lisa and Paul were the most amazing crew ever.... stepping on board hardly knowing us, helping us feed a boatfull on Friday evening, sailing the boat while one or both of us were tied up with kids, but most importantly befriending our children and acting like a second set of parents on board.

Lisa and Paul, you were amazing and we all hope you come back again sometime soon. We really couldn't have done it without you.

We'd also like to apologise for any disruption by AJ during the Balanced seas presentation... sometimes as parents you get it wrong and I'm not quite sure what planet I was on when I thought we could keep him quiet with a packet of crisps and a jigsaw... especially when he usually gets a cheer and a round of applause every time he completes one of his tiny vehicle jigsaws.

I would apologise for Esmé being sick down Mr Pipedreams front.... but I won't because I kind of think he did ask for it, throwing a baby up and down in the air with such enthusiasm.

Finally thanks to all who helped us christen Laurin as an eating and drinking establishment, it was lovely to be able to entertain again, all be it with significant help from our wonderful crew.

Anyway hope to see you all again soon.

Karen, Patrick, AJ & Esmé

 

[ChattingLil]

oh my god. it's turning into a love in.

I haven't discussed it with Paul yet, but I reckon I can speak for both us to say that we had a great time too! Laurin is a wonderful and spacious boat so we were certainly comfortable and there were no complaints about the catering provisions!

I really enjoyed spending time with the babies - who are a credit to their parents. AJ made me laugh all weekend.

Really, it was a great tonic for me and particularly nice as we had zero responsibility! A perfect start to the season and to get me back in the saddle.

Lovely to meet you all.

Sorry the organisation at the pub was a bit squiffy - but I think everyone got their food in the end an it was brilliant to meet so many new people.

I have decided to keep my quiz prize as an ECF legacy, I think it should become the annual trophy!

 

[AliM]

"I have decided to keep my quiz prize as an ECF legacy, I think it should become the annual trophy! "

Good idea.

For those who weren't there, the prize was a rather unusual "bottle" of Belorussian vodka. Unfortunately, Lisa is allergic to vodka! However, it's probably good stuff - it was given to us by a very nice, genuine Belorussian. So the next prize-winners may wish to drink the contents and pass the "bottle" on with some other obscure liquor in it.

I think we've nearly come to the end of our stock of weird and bizarre alcoholic liquids, although there may still be some Sri Lankan arrak somewhere - be warned!

 

[Throstle]

No apologies necessary. You have nothing but my admiration for being able to carry on sailing with your young family. We were not able to due to the first born chucking up and screaming as soon as we started to packing!. Hope to see you again.............Steve

 

[Marmalade]

We had a great weekend on the Blackwater; Friday night on the hook at Marconi - Saturday in Bradwell. I tested the crew's endurance going back however - windward against the tide (for the first couple of hours) and Bradwell never getting any smaller behind us! Made it back later than I'd promised (pitch dark by then!). oops.