the captain strode upon the deck...

Happy Birthday to Norm,

We can't think of a nicer guy to celebrate! Afterall, he was our sailing Captain and partner a few years back, as we searched the Apostle Islands. Norm was a great sailor! He could crawl all over the boat like a mountain goat. As we came to port, he stood ready with rope in hand to jump to the dock. Oh, but wait! Once we had to climb in the dinghy thrashing in the mighty Lake Superior and then row through rough water to a rocky shore. Norm could do it! He inspired us all. However, he did not join his wife and Angie in a swim around the boat. Who could blame him, as Mary and Angie risked hypothermia.

Norm always had a camera to document our great adventure. And a video camera too. Norm decided we should race the waves. The boom swung to the right; it swung to the left. Ed laughed. Norm ducked. Hanging on with ropes and great strength, Caryl, Mary and Angie screamed as their bottoms nearly touched the frigid water. Out came the camera. Norm stood on the steps to the galley and tried to save this moment for posterity. (posteriors for posterity?) Crash! The mighty vessel leaned to the other side and Norm disappeared into the galley, falling on his back like an upside down bug, legs in the air.

Norm, the great sailor! We had a wonderful time with Norm and Mary and will cherish the memory forever.

Stay well, be happy, and let's start planning the 80th party. Love you, Norm!

Eddy and Caryl Steenberg