Page 62 - My Memoirs - Max Kurz

would be illuminating. It is therefore understandable that we had in some way a lot in common and a lot to share.
th
May19 ,2007wasourfirstdate,IinvitedCarrietodinneronthe“Max-Sea”at
the RMYC at Point Piper. I wanted to make a good impression, so I cooked dinner, on the menu was baked salmon and veggies, unfortunately I did not do too well, and we had to make do. Nevertheless, we had a memorable evening, noticeably relaxing, easy conversation and authentic. It was perfect.
The real test of our relationship was to follow, Carrie was off overseas for a
st
month returning June 21 . In hindsight it was destined and served to give us both
time to reflect and ask questions. We communicated remotely, and it was not long before I realised that I was truly missing her and looking forward to her return.
On her return I picked her up from the airport in the pouring rain. I sensed that we were both looking forward to the reunion.
My first meeting with her parents and sister was challenging. I was given the 3rd degree by her mother who was being overly protective and saw me as a threat. If anything was going to test our resolve this was it. Even my own family, whilst not vocal, had every reason to be sceptical, my history was not the best. All except my mother who absolutely loved Carrie from day one. Whilst she rejected all others, Carrie to her was perfect.
There were plenty of challenges, however our maturity, experiences and the growing desire as well as the affection and love for each other enabled us to focus on the moment, we were open and honest with each other, if anything we wanted the other to be sure that there were no hidden agendas; all that was needed to know was known.
It took time for our relationship to build and there were some difficult moments, somehow providence prevailed. As time moved on our confidence grew and so did our love, respect, and acceptance of our individuality. We saw ourselves as a team, as shipmates at sea, I was the helmsman and Carrie the rudder. We came from the same cultural background, we shared our love of the sea, boats, travel, dancing, music. I consider myself to be extremely fortunate to have lived 66 years
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