There is a brief but interesting history of our Special People's Cruise that is worth reading on our webpage. For Members Only, on the Home Page select History from the left margin of subjects; then scroll down to History of Christmas at BYC by Yours Truly. It talks about the Lighted Ship Parade and the Special People's Cruise. It's almost required reading for all members this time of year. Using that as a foundation, I'll get back to my story.

The Special People who were our guests onboard are truly, in every sense of the word, "Special". As you watch them and help them and talk to them and listen to their conversation with Santa your mood changes from apprehension (what could go wrong on this stormy night) to that of enjoyment watching your charges settle in to enjoy the ride even though the weather was just awful.

It had been a stormy day with snow falling all day to the point we had to get a ride to BYC even wondering if the show would go on. As the time for departure drew near, the storm intensified with strong winds and heavy rain. The boat moved restlessly in it's shed as the wind blew.

Jytte and I had four helpers; our neighbors Hank and Sue Allen and Dave and Sigi Helgeson. Boaters they were not. We had had a series of home meetings focusing on Community , it's needs and how we could impact it. Among several ideas, I suggested they assist on our Special People's Cruise. After explaining the challenges and joys of the event, they all signed on. Fortunately, one couple had a four wheel drive car and so they all were able to make it.

These four people along with Jytte were the Special People who made it happen, who remained calm in the storm, who sang Christmas carols, who wiped windows, who helped each one talk to Santa, who life jacketed and escorted our guests to and from shore and who said I did a good job. Mine was the easiest. It was a treat to take them all to dinner.

And a special thanks to Capt. Al Erlandsen who, as part of the BYC Docking Crew helped us in and out of the shed so that our port side lights weren't damaged. All's well that ends well and remarkably, nothing went wrong!

Merry Christmas
P/C Bob Wheeler; MV Carousel