I got to the marina about an hour early for my appointment with the boat broker to look at a ’36 Mainship that’s for sale. The broker tells me that a couple & the salesman are on the way back into the marina with it now.
I get a cold beer out of the cooler and watch as the salesman expertly brings this beautiful boat around the point and into the harbor dock area. Lord she is a beauty. Just exactly the size and style I have been looking for to begin my retirement. Clean, well equipped, great lines, beautifully painted. You could tell at first glance that the had been well cared for and she was in my price range. I fell instantly in love. I could easily see me living on her comfortably.
I watch them dock & tie off. The older gentleman got off & helped his bride step off onto the dock just a few yards away from where I am watching. When they both are standing on the dock they thank the salesman and then she throws her arms around her man, kissed him passionately & says, “Merry Christmas to us darling!”
What? No! This can’t be. They walked into the office. The salesman comes over to me and says that they are paying the asking price in cash.
Happy holidays to all of you. May your holidays be as magical as theirs.
Chuck Choate Words & Pictures 