You know, we fishermen/women, hunters, campers and all outdoor types (as well as many others) have a lot to be thankful for. First off, we have and enjoy sports that allow us to get close to many of the beautiful and enjoyable things that God created for us; and second, for the most part we are able to AFFORD TO PAY THE PRICE for the things that allow us to enjoy our hobbies.

I am grateful for everyday that God gives me, but some days, like today, the above sentiment is brought home to me better then on other days.

I have been retired for over nine years now. My retirement present from me to me was a new G-3 17" Aluminum Bass Boat with a 40 HP Yamaha engine and a new Van to pull it with. Except for normal maintenence I haven't had to do anything special with the engine or the boat--UNTIL TODAY.

On Wednesday I dropped my boat off at the shop for an engine tune-up, new lower unit seals, an impreller and some other minor work. The man called me earlier this afternoon and said I was very fortunate that I brought the boat in when I did because the gas tank is loaded with trash and if I had gone much longer it would have fouled the engine and caused big problems.

I am glad that this wasn't a BIG PROBLEM because to drain the gas tank, take it out of the boat, clean it, re-install it and change all of the fuel lines more than doubled the estimate that I got at first. He told me there were some things he could do to cut the cost (like installing filters instead of draining the tank) but to do it right and the best way, it would cost me XX amount of dollors. I told him to do it.

After I thought about it, I thanked God that I have the money and am in a position to afford to have that work done for a plaything. In these economic times, with so many people out of work, and many people without even enough money to feed their families, I realize just how fortunate I am. Believe me, I am not rich but we are comfortable and I can afford it and at the same time I am grateful to God for allowing me to work throughout my life in productive jobs that put me where I am today.

As soon as I wake up each morning, even before I have opened my eyes, I can feel my wife next to me; I can hear her breathing (snoring sometimes); I can smell the freshness of the sheets she has on the bed, and I can taste the night in my mouth; then I open my eyes and even in the darkness I can see; and I say "Thank you God, it's a beautiful day!"

Grumpy