Picture: Pam and Ted standing by "Shuang Yu" on Granville Island

After three months of leaving "Shuang Yu" at Granville Island, there were no serious buyers although many people looked at her. I think she is a beautiful, sea worthy boat, but nevertheless there were no commitments. Since the contract with the broker was up, Susan, our good friend next door at Shelton, offered to give us a ride to bring her back.

When we arrived at Granville Island, the boat was quite dirty on the outside, I was so disappointed and sad because I generally keep the outside spotless. It was like leaving my baby with the sitter and finding the baby with dirty diaper. The broker told us that we cannot pick the boat up because we have not given them 15 days notice even though Ted emailed them that he is picking her up. Anyway, we just have to go back to Vancouver again in two weeks to pick her up. Meanwhile we will try to show Susan a good time in Vancouver. She is the third batch of friends we have had since the boat has been on Granville Island. First were Sasha and Amelia, then Van and Cida, and now Susan.

The day following our arrival, Susan and I walked to Chinatown while Ted stayed on the boat and installed a new engine fresh water pump and fixed the electrical connection for the aft head (toilet). Near the boat, along the waterfront, there is a beautiful pathway with separate lanes for walkers and bikers. The water is on one side of the pathway, with many marinas and anchorages, while on the other side there are attractive condominiums. We noticed that it seemed to be mostly local people who utilized the walkway. Susan and I planned to follow the waterfront to the bridge and then take a bus to Chinatown to have dim sum at a my favorite Chinese restaurant. After consulting the map, there was a shortcut through a park so we took it. The walk was quite enjoyable as was the authentic Chinese food. Susan and I both agreed that it is unusual to find an enthusiastic walking companion, especially among people in our age group.

Granville Island has a brewery so when Susan and I returned and Ted had finished his jobs, the three of us went out for a beer and small snack. We seldom ever go out to a bar but it was fun going out with Susan for a beer and then walking back to the boat. One advantage of staying aboard "Shuang Yu" is that we can engage in public activities and then have the convenience of home (the boat) close by. It is pure luxury.