And so it begins. All of the calls, the emails, the funding requests, all of the planning – done. Now it’s on to Oswego, New York.
When I dreamed up the idea of teaching a course in nautical literature, I knew I wanted it to have a hands-on, practical component. The original plan was to build an Eastport Pram from Chesapeake Light Craft, teach the kids how to sail it, then put it up for auction, the proceeds going to a mission project of some sort.
Just before Christmas break ended, I came across a post in one of the sailing forums I frequent. A member, John Dunn (or Oswego John as he’s referred to online), posted a message saying that he had a few projects that he needed to part with – one a 22′ 1974 Pearson Ensign. I immediately rattled off an email telling him that I was interested in acquiring the boat for the nautical lit course. I also explained the nature of the project and the fact that the restored boat would eventually be sold to raise money for missions. His reply left me speechless: “Make me a reasonable offer, cut it in half, and we’ll go from there.” John Dunn has a heart for God and a heart for missions.
Tomorrow – well, EARLY Thursday morning – Nick G., Jake and I are heading to Oswego, NY, to pick up the Ensign. With a flatbed trailer from the Nash family, a Toyota Tundra from the Greenes, and funding from the Andrews Academy Student Association, we’ll drive the 9hrs or so to Oswego, arriving around 9am on Thursday, load the boat and turn around for home, arriving back here by 9 or so Thursday evening. Many, many thanks to the Greene and Nash families for making this possible!
Here’s hoping for a safe trip, and here’s what we’re off to get (the old salt in the foreground is none other than Oswego John):
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Project Ensign 