Shifting Sands

The first sign of spring: Stargazer begins her annual refit. A dank drizzle is banished by an auspicious balm of wan sunshine, as she is swung ashore.

The forecast is for strong winds, on Monday. The day of our lift booking. But 'Wayne the crane,' and his band of fluro-jacketed helpers, meet Stargazer, amid the long shadows of dawn, the Friday before. Ahead of the breeze rising.

Simon, our 'engine man,' is also ahead of the game. In December, he sourced a new saildrive diaphragm. Because, "last year they were 'sold out,' all spring." Which proves to be the case again, this year...... The double skinned diaphragm seals the sizeable hole, in Stargazer's underside, through which the saildrive leg (circled) protrudes.

This, precautionary, job has been one that I have put off, repeatedly. For, to change a diaphragm is a major undertaking. It requires the removal of both engine and saildrive. Hence the determined effort, to have Stargazer available, for her reserved slot in Simon's diary. I will turn apprentice for the day. Available as an extra pair of hands, as required.

My day in the boatyard provides welcome respite. From the fusilade of news reports, concerning the antics of the "new sheriff in town" and his posse of deputies. It is reassuring to march in step with the season, follow Stargazer's established spring ritual.

When so much, that we have taken for granted, is gleefully stood upon its head. In the wider world. Each headline more mind melting than the last.

Leaving the boatyard, I reach for the next handhold, of normality. The annual pilgrimage to Wandsworth Town, to secure a French Visa de Long Sejour. A process simplified by familiarity, on my part; and by the ready acceptance of Stargazer, as an 'address,' on the part of my hosts. (A point which, for previous visa applications, had required a 'special case' to be argued).

Out on the river, the tide keeps time, to a syncopated beat. Its rhythm set by the spectral moon. Out of phase, with the quotidian motions of the sun. Which begins to spread a wash of green across bare branches. As winter teeters on the brink of spring.

Opposite Stargazer's yard, stands Upnor Castle. Its historic stone walls a reassuring presence. Resonating a permanence and security, which proved illusiory. When, in 1667, Admiral de Ruyter's fleet sailed into the Medway. Attacking the Chatham naval dockyards and burning the British fleet, at anchor.

Picture credits

Yanmar saildrive parts diagram: Courtesy of Yanmar

Burning Tesla Cybertruck, outside the Las Vegas Trump International Hotel (screenshot): Courtesy of  Times, YouTube.

QAnon Shaman, during 'January 6th' Capitol Riots: Courtesy of Getty Images