Somewhat new to sailing

[amhealy]

My husband and I took up sailing in June of 2009, when we bought our Columbia 26. We traded up for a Harstad 31 in October of 2009, and then traded up for our current boat, a Columbia 36, in August of 2010.

My husband (tomperanteau) has belonged to this forum since 2009 and after 2 years of listening to him describe the interesting conversations that take place here, I've decided to join in. Sounds like a fun place.

About me:

For starters, I don't know anything about sailing except for what he has explained to me or forced me to watch in a video. I do have some experience as I have been forced to endure 2100 hours of sailing (between the two of us) over the last couple of years.

I have mopped up countless messes because we forgot to nail things down, and I have been seasick on a few occasions although I have not yet vomited.

I have learned how to fish in order to combat the endless hours of boredom one is forced to endure on a sailboat, and I have also learned how to keep the hooks from landing in the ropes that are all over the place.

I know more than what I am stating here, I just don't know how to say it because I haven't yet memorized sailboat vernacular. Feel free to laugh at me or correct me.

[WanderingStar]

Well, you sound like a good sport. As much as I love sailing and cruising, there are setbacks and frustrations. But then comes the perfect day of sailing well, followed by sunset in a beautiful spot, and you appreciate all the trouble.
Welcome here.

[DRFerron]

Welcome to Sailnet!

Originally Posted by amhealy

My husband (tomperanteau) has belonged to this forum since 2009 and after 2 years of listening to him describe the interesting conversations that take place here, I've decided to join in. Sounds like a fun place.

It is. Sometimes you need a thick skin, but, meh. It's a great place and I've met some good people.

Originally Posted by amhealy

About me:

For starters, I don't know anything about sailing except for what he has explained to me or forced me to watch in a video.

Even with your practical experience, might I suggest that you take a USCG or USPS boating course? I teach the USCG sailing course and lately I've seen the amount of women taking the course increase over the years. They want to finally know for themselves what's going on so they can be equal partners, how they can better contribute, and how to be able to do things in an emergency should their partner become incapacitated. Every one has ended the course with more confidence and knowledge.

I have had to separate a few couples during the charting section so I like when either the couple gets along or only the female takes the class.

Originally Posted by amhealy

I have mopped up countless messes because we forgot to nail things down, and I have been seasick on a few occasions although I have not yet vomited.

I usually feel queasy after a bad combination of food and wine. At night I keep a designated Little Red Bucket handy.

Originally Posted by amhealy

I have learned how to fish in order to combat the endless hours of boredom one is forced to endure on a sailboat, and I have also learned how to keep the hooks from landing in the ropes that are all over the place.

You didn't mention keeping the hooks out of your husband.

Originally Posted by amhealy

Feel free to laugh at me or correct me.

You're off to a great start on this forum with that attitude.