Sailing Through Life: Reflecting on 35 Years

Our anniversary is coming up and it’s had me reflecting on our journey together. Over 35 years have passed since we first met—me at 18, him at 20—and neither of us had any idea who we were, let alone who we’d become together. It’s incredible to look back and see how much we’ve grown, both as individuals and as a couple.  

One of the constants in our relationship has been sailing. It’s more than just a hobby; it’s been a lifeline for both of us. I spend countless hours in a high-stress, online work environment, and being out on the water is my therapy. For Keith, sailing offers a much-needed escape and grounding. When we sail, we connect—not just with the water, but with each other. We’re simply better together when we spend more time on the boat.  

I’ve noticed that many couples struggle to stay connected once their children grow up and become more independent. Without the shared focus of raising a family, they sometimes realize they have little else in common. Sailing, for us, has been a cornerstone of our relationship—a shared passion that keeps us close.  

As we’ve gotten older (and maybe a little slower!), we’ve learned to rely on each other more.  Growing as a team has been key for us. I’ve gained skills and confidence, while Keith has come to trust my decisions on the water. At the same time, I’ve learned to lean on his steady hand and experience when it matters most. By embracing each other’s strengths and compensating for our weaknesses, we’ve become quite the crew.

Sailing isn’t just a pastime for us; it’s a metaphor for how we navigate life. There are calm seas and stormy weather, but through it all, we keep moving forward together, stronger as a team.