08/31/2024
https://woobox.com/v3myzg/gallery/FpNQy7VuDPE
The Woodstock Whaler
I’ve always been an anomaly. At seven, I was sailing solo, a tiny figure at the helm of a much larger vessel. I preferred the thrill of the open water over a stuffy classroom.
But even a seasoned sailor can make bad decisions. At age 15, I ditched a vacation with my neighbors and hitchhiked 800 miles to Woodstock '94.
The only person privy to my audacious plan was my grandfather. He listened intently to my dreams, his eyes twinkling with a mischievous glint. Surprisingly, he approved of my escapade, seeing a reflection of his youthful spirit in my adventure.
Upon returning from Woodstock, my parents were furious. I was beyond grounded. But my grandfather? He surprised me with an extraordinary gift: a 17-foot Boston Whaler Montauk. A sleek, reliable vessel with a 70hp Johnson engine. But the most meaningful aspect of this gift was the name my grandfather had bestowed upon the boat: "Woodstock.”
Woodstock was more than a boat; it was a tangible reminder of my youthful spirit, my grandfather's unwavering support, and the incredible experiences I had gained. Woodstock carried me through countless adventures, from fishing trips on calm lakes to thrilling escapades on choppy seas.
Looking back on those formative years, I am grateful for the lessons learned and the memories made. My love of adventure and a desire for independence shaped me into who I am today. And Woodstock, my first Boston Whaler, will forever hold a special place in my heart.
