Crossing the Bar

After some delay due to internet connection we are back in communicado once again.
Today we crossed the notorious Columbia Bar, with great trepidation. However, all went well as the weather was sunny and clear with light winds.The swells are still quite strong and one can just imagine how wild things can get out there! This was our third bar so far, so we are getting the hang of it. With good preparation and background knowledge of the shoals, depths, and current weather forecast from the Coast Guard stations, it was very do-able, just follow the recommeded way points. The trip has been a great success so far, from little first nation villages to urban centers, and gorgeous scenery, it's amazing to think we all live on this little blue planet third from the sun! Today we ventured into the delightful town of Astoria where we visited a superb Maritime Museum. Most of the displays were about the history of the Columbia River and the fearsome Bar. It told of the hundreds of ships, large and small that have braved the fierce currents, and gave it the name 'The Graveyard of the Pacific.' One certainly gains a new respect for these waters. Check out the photo of Georgie (first mate) and Cathryn from page 2 of the Port Angeles News.We're almost famous!Next stop Tillamook, and ,oh, yes, another bar!! 

Sunset and evening star,
And one clear call for me,
And may there be no moaning of the bar,
When I go out to sea.

But such a tide is moving, seems asleep,
Too full for sound and foam,
When that which drew from out the boundless deep,
Turns home again.

Twilight and evening bell,
And after that the dark,
And may there be no sadness of farewell,
when I embark.

For tho' from out are bourne of time and place,
The flood may bear me far,
I hope to see my pilot face to face,
When I have crossed the bar.

Alfred Lord Tennyson