For islanders, boating is a necessity. For sports enthusiasts, vacationers and outdoor enthusiasts, recreational water sports are the reason most visitors come to the area. My observation is that summer boating and recreational activities have become more popular with each passing year. I not only watched, but also actively participated in exploring the river. I watched fishing boats and pleasure craft zoom in and out of the channels between and around the myriad of nearby islands. I found the constant flow of action truly remarkable. Mom felt comfortable in this porch environment, and I remember sitting there with her regularly. Just because the five of us now lived together in Comfort, didn't mean we ate many of our meals there and that especially goes for dinner. While we ate at the TI Club most of the time for convenience when Mom and Betsy were there, I remember spreading myself out more after they left. I remember going to Pine Tree Point quite often despite the prejudices of the elders. The view was spectacular and Dad loved going there. He chatted with Cap Thomson who told the story of Ginger Ale and rented his dog to Great Grandfather Clark on each visit. Deb, Betsy, and I regularly asked to be excused after we finished eating. While my two sisters browsed the gift shop or took a walk, I went to find Preston, who was the head delivery boy and a skilled ping-pong player. The resort had a table downstairs and we would play until Deb or Betsy came to say we were leaving. I remember Preston and the fun we shared like it was yesterday. As soon as I moved to Comfort, I realized how important it was to be able to run a boat. In Santa Barbara I was able to walk to the nearby village......middle of paper......t of the Rogers area. I remember being the navigator and talking to Dad as we made our way through the gauntlet of rocks towards the Schermerhorn landing. “Dad, I can't see which way to turn this confusing map to get an accurate solution to where we really are. This chart shows rocks scattered throughout this area." I said. “I know what you mean, Tad. Try turning the chart a little this way or that in relation to something like that island over there.” He said pointing to a nearby seat to our right. We advanced slowly, but before we arrived, Buzz jumped out. It is mentioned in his diary, but I remember without any help. A couple of fishermen came to our aid. One guy knew enough about motors to solve our problem by using some sandpaper to remove debris from the “tips”. It wasn't too early to add a second, more reliable boat to our island transportation resources.