On monday 17th of December, Matthew, Nathan and I were given an opportunity to go on a harbour cruise with Peter Edington on his mighty ocean going sloop "LOQUAX" (to find out more about this fantastic boat ... please go to his web site ... http://www.peteredington.com/ )

We all met at the dock and Peter immediately made us feel welcome and relaxed with his friendly and professional manner. He organised a launch to come and pick us all up from the wharf and we were promptly transferred to his boat. We got on board and the first job was to learn where the life jackets were stored and how to put them on etc. Next was the tour of the Loquax (to find all the amenities) and instructions on how to release the mooring.

Then we were off ... out into the (middle harbour) part of Sydney harbour. We went under power rather than sail simply because we had arranged it so we could take the younger children and we were only going out for a couple of hours. Peter was kind enough to let all the kids (all four who came out) have a chance to steer the boat and under Peter's expert guidance even Matthew (aged 6 3/4) managed to avoid hitting anything. We stopped for lunch around 11.45am and then continued on our little tour.

On our way back, I had my chance to have a go at steering the boat. I was a little hesitant at first, but soon got the hang of it. I must admit, it was a real pleasure and before I realised it, I was imagining sailing around the world. What a fantastic feeling, aided by the way Peter made us all feel relaxed, nothing seemed to bother him, even when my two kids started to pester him for another turn at sailing his pride and joy.

And then it was all over too soon. I felt i could have stayed out there for ever, given the opportunity. I would like to publicly thank Peter for his patience and charity for taking time out from his busy schedule to allow some kids (the big and the little) the joy of being out on the water. THANX PETER