"As I sit at my computer surrounded by pictures of "Rebel" and "Blue Lady" recording memories of my sailing life, I know just how lucky I have been. Had I been just a few years earlier in arriving on this earth, I would have missed the chance of a middle class working stiff to own such boats. Only one generation earlier had no opportunity to own and sail the boats I have known."

Author J. Howard Williams experienced a variety of jobs in his lifetime, from a CPA to a marina manager to a boat salesman. But through it all, his heart has belonged to sailing.

Journey with Williams through a...