There is an old saying, “A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.” It seems that is a statement I may have heard from my grandmother of Irish ancestors when referring to the “Lightning Glider” sled I had versus the “Lightning Glider” sled I desired! I was a sledding maniac as a kid. Problem was, I crashed a lot. My grandmother recommended restraint, but I preferred something sleeker and faster. I settled for the bird in hand, despite design flaws and patchwork repairs. And, multiple hidden ice patches and formidable tree obstacles along the way.

So, my thinking regarding this week’s photo was, share something you have versus something anticipated. The “Register” goes to press before the deluge of Windjammer photos get their electronic transformation. I realize this is slightly ahead of the curve, but it’s a photograph that is not likely to show up again. And for me of little patience and many Windjammer events, smoke ’em if you got ’em.

In past years we have anticipated great gatherings for the festive events of Windjammer Days. It was pointed out to me by far more experienced seafarers, that much depends upon the days leading up to ship arrivals. It could be very beautiful in Boothbay Harbor with people swarming the shores and waters, but if the winds offshore are wrong or the seas and weather objectionable, captains will arrange to provide for the safety of their “cargo,” which sometimes has meant not beating themselves up to arrive here. God willing and the geese don’t fly this will not be the case this year.

The image of note this week occurred some years back on a less than stellar Windjammer arrival day. But it is my photo in hand. I believe these boats were not leaving for greater adventures, they were realigning offshore to a grander entrance into the Harbor. Sometimes things appear when least expected. Captain Mark Stover and I and a small group of passengers cruised about taking in the sights. But, it was a bit frumpy and overcast, not lending to the great spectacular well-lighted dramatic vessel portraits sought by people, cameras and cell phones. However, like many of the trees with which I collided on my “Lightning Glider,” out of nowhere, a gift arrives.

I hope this year’s Windjammer event has fewer obstructing trees and more delightful clearing paths. Fair winds.