Bottom:Starting under the gate Top: Sitting in Santa Cruz
Friday, December 25, 2009
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Challenges, We Got Challenges
Monterey:
Long overdue update: we were heading down the coast, all prepared for our first overnighter, about 15-20 miles down the coast, the wind just started to pick up, and we were getting ready to raise the sails when the engine died. YIKES!!! So we can sail on down the coast to unknown services, or get towed back to Monterey.
This is not good financially, time wise (weather gets rougher in January), or emotionally. But regardless, here we are. We have met some great people, made some new friends, and HOPEFULLY found the problem with the engine. Part will be delivered tomorrow.
Besides the new friends we have made, the silver lining to this dark cloud is that we get to go home for Christmas!!! Yahoo.
We are renting a car and heading home for a day. Everyone is happy about that.
So, if this part fixes the engine, the next weather window after Christmas, we will be heading out. Otherwise, we may be looking for work in Monterey.
Long overdue update: we were heading down the coast, all prepared for our first overnighter, about 15-20 miles down the coast, the wind just started to pick up, and we were getting ready to raise the sails when the engine died. YIKES!!! So we can sail on down the coast to unknown services, or get towed back to Monterey.
This is not good financially, time wise (weather gets rougher in January), or emotionally. But regardless, here we are. We have met some great people, made some new friends, and HOPEFULLY found the problem with the engine. Part will be delivered tomorrow.
Besides the new friends we have made, the silver lining to this dark cloud is that we get to go home for Christmas!!! Yahoo.
We are renting a car and heading home for a day. Everyone is happy about that.
So, if this part fixes the engine, the next weather window after Christmas, we will be heading out. Otherwise, we may be looking for work in Monterey.
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Judging Books
It’s not always comfortable to see things from a different perspective
I’ve been here quite a few times for conferences, and it is totally different without hoards of people here! It is interesting to see places from a totally different perspective. Places you have been in many times become foreign due to the change in your needs from this side of the fence. Last time I was here, I didn’t need block ice, propane, a washer, or a grocery store.
Needs whittle down to actual necessities, or maybe not even necessities, more like basics. I don’t NEED to have a washer and dryer to wash my clothes, but it is nice. Even that, instead of a laundry room, being a requirement, I’m excited because the marina has a washer and dryer.
When we arrived we saw a sea lion swim right under the dock we were walking on, the water was so clear you could easily see his skin and tail flippers and how they moved. Yesterday I saw a jelly fish right by the stairs, I stood and watched him for a long time, way cool!
This is not the trip we had planned, by now we were supposed to have San Diego in the rear view mirror. It is now about transforming the goal oriented, lets get moving, we have places to be mindset. Trying to purpose to enjoy each location each experience for what it has to offer. In Pillar Point, I missed the opportunity to buy crab right off the boat that caught it that morning, I thought it would be there the next day, but the next day the opportunity was gone. Hope I don’t have to learn that lesson too many times.
Looks like tomorrow we will be headed to San Simeon, but if not, maybe I’ll meet an interesting person or maybe a sea otter will show up for breakfast!
I’ve been here quite a few times for conferences, and it is totally different without hoards of people here! It is interesting to see places from a totally different perspective. Places you have been in many times become foreign due to the change in your needs from this side of the fence. Last time I was here, I didn’t need block ice, propane, a washer, or a grocery store.
Needs whittle down to actual necessities, or maybe not even necessities, more like basics. I don’t NEED to have a washer and dryer to wash my clothes, but it is nice. Even that, instead of a laundry room, being a requirement, I’m excited because the marina has a washer and dryer.
When we arrived we saw a sea lion swim right under the dock we were walking on, the water was so clear you could easily see his skin and tail flippers and how they moved. Yesterday I saw a jelly fish right by the stairs, I stood and watched him for a long time, way cool!
This is not the trip we had planned, by now we were supposed to have San Diego in the rear view mirror. It is now about transforming the goal oriented, lets get moving, we have places to be mindset. Trying to purpose to enjoy each location each experience for what it has to offer. In Pillar Point, I missed the opportunity to buy crab right off the boat that caught it that morning, I thought it would be there the next day, but the next day the opportunity was gone. Hope I don’t have to learn that lesson too many times.
Looks like tomorrow we will be headed to San Simeon, but if not, maybe I’ll meet an interesting person or maybe a sea otter will show up for breakfast!
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Keeping in Touch
Monterey is lovely, sunny, warm, and you can walk to most places you need to go. I have only found 1 coffee shop that is internet friendly and it is a bit of a walk, I earn that coffee!!
There is a Dennis the Menace park, a kids science museum and of course the Monterey Bay Aquarium. My daughter Mandy was thinking about coming here and taking in the Aquarium while we were here, so my mind is going down the what if route. Sadly, we will be gone before she can bring Lilly down.
Mandy says that when she turns on her computer 1 year old Lilly looks to see if I’m there!! Being away from family is tough, but the computer and phones help. With skype and instant messaging on the computer, it is much easier to stay connected especially with the little ones.
There is a Dennis the Menace park, a kids science museum and of course the Monterey Bay Aquarium. My daughter Mandy was thinking about coming here and taking in the Aquarium while we were here, so my mind is going down the what if route. Sadly, we will be gone before she can bring Lilly down.
Mandy says that when she turns on her computer 1 year old Lilly looks to see if I’m there!! Being away from family is tough, but the computer and phones help. With skype and instant messaging on the computer, it is much easier to stay connected especially with the little ones.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Too Much Time to Think
I think it is better to keep moving, you don't have time to develop apprehension. Tomorrow Monterey, then our first overnighter; Monterey to San Simeon.
I think it is about 20 hours. We leave around noon so we can arrive in the morning, that way if it takes longer than 20 hours we will still have lots of daylight left.
Very exciting stuff
I think it is about 20 hours. We leave around noon so we can arrive in the morning, that way if it takes longer than 20 hours we will still have lots of daylight left.
Very exciting stuff
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Location Location Location
You may be able to see where we are via this link:
http://share.findmespot.com/shared/faces/viewspots.jsp?glId=0erIBM0uMFTif0sWNvrfZqN90UrvqWyxF
SPOT is the economy cruiser's friend!!
http://share.findmespot.com/shared/faces/viewspots.jsp?glId=0erIBM0uMFTif0sWNvrfZqN90UrvqWyxF
SPOT is the economy cruiser's friend!!
Friday, December 11, 2009
Santa Cruz Stall
It has been nice to be here where my sister is. She has been kind enough to share her car, so we can get some things done. Also, short walk to a bathroom, and a nice coffee house “The Kind Grind” They are very nice there, free internet and great view of the ocean. So here we are stuck in Santa Cruz, waiting for the weather to break. Looks like maybe Monday before we leave.
Wednsday was a little rough, it was cold, and I am apprehensive about the upcoming overnighter to San Simeon. Debated on whether to share my feelings, but good bad or ugly, it may help someone later.
When it is cold, no wind, and you have been motoring for days with what feels like little progress, spirits sag. While dreaming and planning the adventure, you pictures idyllic days with smooth sea’s, sun, fair winds, and surfing long slow swells.
You do NOT plan for no wind, wallowing in beam on waves, ice cold, and sleepless nights with clanging noises and jerking boat movements. I see people shopping, going out to eat, dressed like regular people, not homeless people and I wonder. This is when doubts arise. Did we do the right thing? Is this a mistake? Are we strong enough, mentally and physically?
We have determined this is the price of admission, and it is paid in advance. So, we will pay the price, and continue on with sunny skies, and warm sandy beaches in our dreams.
Wednsday was a little rough, it was cold, and I am apprehensive about the upcoming overnighter to San Simeon. Debated on whether to share my feelings, but good bad or ugly, it may help someone later.
When it is cold, no wind, and you have been motoring for days with what feels like little progress, spirits sag. While dreaming and planning the adventure, you pictures idyllic days with smooth sea’s, sun, fair winds, and surfing long slow swells.
You do NOT plan for no wind, wallowing in beam on waves, ice cold, and sleepless nights with clanging noises and jerking boat movements. I see people shopping, going out to eat, dressed like regular people, not homeless people and I wonder. This is when doubts arise. Did we do the right thing? Is this a mistake? Are we strong enough, mentally and physically?
We have determined this is the price of admission, and it is paid in advance. So, we will pay the price, and continue on with sunny skies, and warm sandy beaches in our dreams.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Santa Cruz
Here we are in Santa Cruz. COLD COLD COLD!!! But the good news is my sister Cheryl lives here and we have wheels!! So got some laundry done, and a couple of things we "needed". THANKS CHERYL, also thanks for the happy hour tacos, haha!!
Came in around 6pm last night and was a little scary. You head for the beach and make a left just before the sand, oh and there are breakers at the entrance so wait for a lull between sets. On our first approach there appeared to be a boat in the channel. So went around again, and established that it was a dredger, but just stay to the right, and in the center of the channel.
Would prefer not to do that again. Oh, well, here and safe.
Weather permitting will head to Monterey tomorrow.
Did I mention it was cold? Now tell me again, why we didn't fly down to Mexico and buy a boat there?
Came in around 6pm last night and was a little scary. You head for the beach and make a left just before the sand, oh and there are breakers at the entrance so wait for a lull between sets. On our first approach there appeared to be a boat in the channel. So went around again, and established that it was a dredger, but just stay to the right, and in the center of the channel.
Would prefer not to do that again. Oh, well, here and safe.
Weather permitting will head to Monterey tomorrow.
Did I mention it was cold? Now tell me again, why we didn't fly down to Mexico and buy a boat there?
Monday, December 7, 2009
Proper Cruisers????
Second night in Pillar Point. Don’t feel like much of a real cruiser, staying at marinas like this. BUT we are still working out our systems, the dinghy must be inflated if we anchor out and want/need to go in, and we will be rowing.
Marcus is smart to realize that we need to be rested up for these passages. To those who have done them for a long time, it may seem small day trips. To us, it is an adjustment to say the least.
I for one have lowered my “standards” of what I thought we would be doing. The key is we are doing it. We are doing it in the manner that is safe for us, that works for us. If I have learned anything in the last few days, it is that every trip/passage is different. Different winds, different sea conditions, different temperatures, different temperaments, different physical abilities. Just different.
Marcus is smart to realize that we need to be rested up for these passages. To those who have done them for a long time, it may seem small day trips. To us, it is an adjustment to say the least.
I for one have lowered my “standards” of what I thought we would be doing. The key is we are doing it. We are doing it in the manner that is safe for us, that works for us. If I have learned anything in the last few days, it is that every trip/passage is different. Different winds, different sea conditions, different temperatures, different temperaments, different physical abilities. Just different.
Out the Golden Gate- Left Turn
It was a solemn morning, both quiet and all business as we prepared. Listened carefully to the weather, started the engine and dropped the mooring ball.
This is it.
So we made it out, only one other sailboat off in the distance, it was early, cold and windy. Yesterday tons of sailboats out, but today, it was just us and in incoming barge.
Lumpy, seas, cold with a lot of wave action. I think it took us close to 7 hours to make it to Pillar Point. With the waves, we had to adjust our direction so the waves didn't continually toss us about.
The Moon held up well, and we had most things pretty well stowed. It seemed to take forever, and we had a little spray over the bow, and a few sprinkles. We took a slip for the night, not feeling very cruiserlike, but we are still finding our way, and it was good to turn on the heater.
It was a good thing too, as it rained like crazy last night, and we were snug and warm all night.
I'm working on passagemaking tips like, "make sure one shirt is tucked into your pants so your back does not get cold"
Don't know if this is making any sense, I'm still a little tired this morning, but looking forward to warmer weather.
This is it.
So we made it out, only one other sailboat off in the distance, it was early, cold and windy. Yesterday tons of sailboats out, but today, it was just us and in incoming barge.
Lumpy, seas, cold with a lot of wave action. I think it took us close to 7 hours to make it to Pillar Point. With the waves, we had to adjust our direction so the waves didn't continually toss us about.
The Moon held up well, and we had most things pretty well stowed. It seemed to take forever, and we had a little spray over the bow, and a few sprinkles. We took a slip for the night, not feeling very cruiserlike, but we are still finding our way, and it was good to turn on the heater.
It was a good thing too, as it rained like crazy last night, and we were snug and warm all night.
I'm working on passagemaking tips like, "make sure one shirt is tucked into your pants so your back does not get cold"
Don't know if this is making any sense, I'm still a little tired this morning, but looking forward to warmer weather.
On to Sausalito!
12/4/09
Benicia Marina, nice, but lacking customer service. Also, NO INTERNET sure wish they would join the 20th century.
Benicia old town is about a block away, and tonight they were having a really nice street Christmas Fair, and the Yacht club here was having a big party. We are just too tired to participate. I walked 8 blocks to Safeway for a few things and forgot the tortillas, oh well.
Another short day, late getting out due to fog, and then had to fight the tidal currents, looks like tomorrow will be the same. But for tonight a warm, quiet place to stay,
12/5/09
This morning when we saw there was no fog to speak of, we decided to get a quick move on and try to catch a ride with the tide, as we had been at odds with it the entire trip. At one point I thought of Marcus and I as a cartoon, he would portray me as slamming around, at Tasmanian Devil Speeds with similar results. I would portray him as UBER slow motion, looking at every nit an picking it. HAHA we make a good team, but sometimes we do chafe a bit!!
12/5/09 PM
Sausalito, Richardson Bay. Got the heavy weather jib up, chart plotter working, figured out jack lines. Jack line-a rope that is tied to the boat and then you connect a tether to the rope and to your harness so if some reason you start to fall off the boat, you are still connected to the boat and climb back onboard. This is mostly done on passage making, sailing at night or during heavy weather. We want to be a little more cautious, so even though this is really just a day sail to Half Moon Bay, we will try out the safety gear.
I tried to straighten up the inside of the boat a bit, but it still feels pretty cramped and messy. It will take some time for things to find their place. Feels like I may have over provisioned the food a bit (Marcus is ready to start chucking stuff overboard) but we shall see.
Benicia Marina, nice, but lacking customer service. Also, NO INTERNET sure wish they would join the 20th century.
Benicia old town is about a block away, and tonight they were having a really nice street Christmas Fair, and the Yacht club here was having a big party. We are just too tired to participate. I walked 8 blocks to Safeway for a few things and forgot the tortillas, oh well.
Another short day, late getting out due to fog, and then had to fight the tidal currents, looks like tomorrow will be the same. But for tonight a warm, quiet place to stay,
12/5/09
This morning when we saw there was no fog to speak of, we decided to get a quick move on and try to catch a ride with the tide, as we had been at odds with it the entire trip. At one point I thought of Marcus and I as a cartoon, he would portray me as slamming around, at Tasmanian Devil Speeds with similar results. I would portray him as UBER slow motion, looking at every nit an picking it. HAHA we make a good team, but sometimes we do chafe a bit!!
12/5/09 PM
Sausalito, Richardson Bay. Got the heavy weather jib up, chart plotter working, figured out jack lines. Jack line-a rope that is tied to the boat and then you connect a tether to the rope and to your harness so if some reason you start to fall off the boat, you are still connected to the boat and climb back onboard. This is mostly done on passage making, sailing at night or during heavy weather. We want to be a little more cautious, so even though this is really just a day sail to Half Moon Bay, we will try out the safety gear.
I tried to straighten up the inside of the boat a bit, but it still feels pretty cramped and messy. It will take some time for things to find their place. Feels like I may have over provisioned the food a bit (Marcus is ready to start chucking stuff overboard) but we shall see.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
AND THEY'RE OFF!
WE HAVE ACTUALLY LEFT THE DOCK!! We are tied up to the guest dock at Pittsburg Yacht Club guest dock; FOR FREE. Thank you friends and Andres Cove Yacht Club! It makes the transition from dirt dweller to cruiser a little easier. We have nice docks, free electricity, internet, and ICE!! Thanks to Kandie, bartender at the club.
Tomorrow, hopefully Richmond Yacht Club, or maybe China Camp, just depends on tide, winds and sun.
It was a tough couple of days getting out of Dodge, but we finally made it.
Tomorrow, hopefully Richmond Yacht Club, or maybe China Camp, just depends on tide, winds and sun.
It was a tough couple of days getting out of Dodge, but we finally made it.
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Not Yet!!!
Trying to sort out everything and prepare to manage from afar proves to be more work than anticipated. No surprise, but here we sit, still at the dock.
It really is a good thing we were here, Friday night winds were 20-30 gusting to 40 mph!!! It was a wild ride and we were up every couple of hours lashing down stuff that was not secured.
At 5:30am the staysail (small sail just forward of the mast, aft of the jib) came unfurled and we had to take it down in crazy winds. No fun wresling a heavy piece of canvase with ropes and hard rings attached. No damage done, but a boater on the next dock was not so lucky as his jib was shredded during the same winds. Probably cost $500-$700 used, yikes!!
Great strides have been made and we will be out of the house tonight. On top of everything else, I have a cough, runny nose and no energy.
Bottom line, we will be heading out mid week . . . I think.
It really is a good thing we were here, Friday night winds were 20-30 gusting to 40 mph!!! It was a wild ride and we were up every couple of hours lashing down stuff that was not secured.
At 5:30am the staysail (small sail just forward of the mast, aft of the jib) came unfurled and we had to take it down in crazy winds. No fun wresling a heavy piece of canvase with ropes and hard rings attached. No damage done, but a boater on the next dock was not so lucky as his jib was shredded during the same winds. Probably cost $500-$700 used, yikes!!
Great strides have been made and we will be out of the house tonight. On top of everything else, I have a cough, runny nose and no energy.
Bottom line, we will be heading out mid week . . . I think.
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Going Away
We just had our bon voyage party and we are overwhelmed at the love and support of people we have met along the way. It was amazing how many people came and I believe a testament to the power of a dream coming to fruition.
Friends and family brought crayons, colored pencils, and construction paper for us to give to rural children and schools. Generous lot, our friends.
We are truly blessed by the many people who have touched our lives over the years. Thank you all.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Electronics We Got Electronics
So we now have:
computer
VHF radio
hand held VHF
stereo
MP3 player
GPS
S.P.O.T. gps check-in/emergency locater
chartplotter
autopilot (Thanks CPT autopilot!)
solar panels
This list seems shorter than I thought it would. Keep in mind I also need to make sure they function properly, and that WE function properly in unison with them. Make sure the maps are correct, we have batteries, and chargers for everything.
Oh, and they all have to "talk" to each other! Exciting to have new toys, but a little overwheming to get them all together!
From what I've seen, most cruising boats have MUCH more in the way of electronic devices, but that is just much more to go wrong. Now that we have our autopilot, we are pretty comfortable with how the boat is outfitted. It would not be fun to hand steer the boat all the way to Mexico.
computer
VHF radio
hand held VHF
stereo
MP3 player
GPS
S.P.O.T. gps check-in/emergency locater
chartplotter
autopilot (Thanks CPT autopilot!)
solar panels
This list seems shorter than I thought it would. Keep in mind I also need to make sure they function properly, and that WE function properly in unison with them. Make sure the maps are correct, we have batteries, and chargers for everything.
Oh, and they all have to "talk" to each other! Exciting to have new toys, but a little overwheming to get them all together!
From what I've seen, most cruising boats have MUCH more in the way of electronic devices, but that is just much more to go wrong. Now that we have our autopilot, we are pretty comfortable with how the boat is outfitted. It would not be fun to hand steer the boat all the way to Mexico.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Provisioning
Went to Costco yesterday, I had a budget in my mind of $100 to do a little provisioning. Not everything, just some things to get started. The $100 is because I am working on being a cash only person. It is pretty easy to use and ATM or credit card, even if there is no money in there, I have overdraft. Makes it too easy to NOT keep track of expenses.
So I think I'm adding up the cost of things, it seems EVERYTHING in Costco is either $5+ or $10+, and I know I have a little more than $100 to spend. I think I'm being careful, and the total is . . . $199. !!!!! Should have known.
Have I mentioned Marcus and I have different views of things? I get home late and it takes several trips to bring all the stuff to the house. He thinks we are bringing 5 days of food and buying more along the way as we need it. I think we need 5 weeks of food and will supplement as we go along. He thinks I have bought too much, I think I have bought too little. What ya gonna do?
Well, I'm gonna go shopping, I need some canned chicken . . .
So I think I'm adding up the cost of things, it seems EVERYTHING in Costco is either $5+ or $10+, and I know I have a little more than $100 to spend. I think I'm being careful, and the total is . . . $199. !!!!! Should have known.
Have I mentioned Marcus and I have different views of things? I get home late and it takes several trips to bring all the stuff to the house. He thinks we are bringing 5 days of food and buying more along the way as we need it. I think we need 5 weeks of food and will supplement as we go along. He thinks I have bought too much, I think I have bought too little. What ya gonna do?
Well, I'm gonna go shopping, I need some canned chicken . . .
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
What Are You, Crazy?
How do you explain to your family and friends you are pulling up stakes from a good job and a nice house; the safety and security of hearth and home? How do you explain that to yourself?
We are feeling pretty time strapped right about now. Still so much to do and the clock is moving at fast forward. This morning my daughter said, what are you so stressed about, you are leaving for a long vacation . . .
VACATION?? VACATION!! Let's see, I will be "camping out" on the water. No TV, occasional access to the internet, no dishwasher, stocked corner store, refrigeration, minimal electrical access. I'll be cooking in an area with the the footprint of an ice chest, washing clothes by hand in a bucket, water measured by cups, not gallons, weather determining everything you do. Probably will be to hot, too cold, too wet, too tired; a lot.
Your home is subject to being tossed, turned, dragged, rammed and sunk. To go anywhere you must take the dinghy to shore and walk or take a sketchy bus and carry groceries in a backpack. Oh yeah, and the people speak a different language and it takes some doing to figure out where you want to go.
I'm selling, giving away or throwing away all but my most treasured possessions, and going to live in a 32 by 10 ft boat far from the people I love.
We don't have a source of income, and very limited savings, so we will be working as we go. The goal is to live on less than $1000 per month. Mexico is an economical place to be sure, but that is not a lot when you consider food, fuel, water, an occasional night in a marina, and transportation home.
Yes there will be lots of sleepy little lagoons, fascinating people and priceless experiences, but I'm not sure I would classify it as a vacation. Don't mind me, I'm having a paper bag day.
We are feeling pretty time strapped right about now. Still so much to do and the clock is moving at fast forward. This morning my daughter said, what are you so stressed about, you are leaving for a long vacation . . .
VACATION?? VACATION!! Let's see, I will be "camping out" on the water. No TV, occasional access to the internet, no dishwasher, stocked corner store, refrigeration, minimal electrical access. I'll be cooking in an area with the the footprint of an ice chest, washing clothes by hand in a bucket, water measured by cups, not gallons, weather determining everything you do. Probably will be to hot, too cold, too wet, too tired; a lot.
Your home is subject to being tossed, turned, dragged, rammed and sunk. To go anywhere you must take the dinghy to shore and walk or take a sketchy bus and carry groceries in a backpack. Oh yeah, and the people speak a different language and it takes some doing to figure out where you want to go.
I'm selling, giving away or throwing away all but my most treasured possessions, and going to live in a 32 by 10 ft boat far from the people I love.
We don't have a source of income, and very limited savings, so we will be working as we go. The goal is to live on less than $1000 per month. Mexico is an economical place to be sure, but that is not a lot when you consider food, fuel, water, an occasional night in a marina, and transportation home.
Yes there will be lots of sleepy little lagoons, fascinating people and priceless experiences, but I'm not sure I would classify it as a vacation. Don't mind me, I'm having a paper bag day.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Paper Bag Days
Every so often it becomes a little hared to breath, my mind starts racing in circles and I don't know if I can do this. Where will we put these clothes, food, tools, spares? CAN I DO THIS? I'm not 22 anymore, this is crazy, storms, dragging anchors, days at sea . . . MY FAMILY! I'LL MISS MY FAMILY!
Deep breath, step onto Quiet Moon. It seems when I am near my beautiful boat, there is a peace, a happiness. I know it is a little idealistic, and we will have tough days, but she inspires calmness and confidence in me. Another option is to go back in my mind to sitting in the cockpit of Western Grace sailing along off the coast of California. AHHHH my own form of meditation!
Deep breath, step onto Quiet Moon. It seems when I am near my beautiful boat, there is a peace, a happiness. I know it is a little idealistic, and we will have tough days, but she inspires calmness and confidence in me. Another option is to go back in my mind to sitting in the cockpit of Western Grace sailing along off the coast of California. AHHHH my own form of meditation!
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Men are from Mars
Finally convinced Marcus to buy some clothes for the trip. His theory is bring 2 pair, one to wear, one to dry. Not the way I think! Lucky for him I have my black belt in shopping. With a little help from Land's End and Sierra Trading Post, I think we will be properly clothed and protected. Sandals, water shoes, shorts, hats, gloves, underwear, bathing suites, quick drying everything and something a little casual/dressy for checking into Mexico, or an important occasion.
Yesterday was under the bowsprit day. I got in our skiff with a heat gun and scraper and got started. It is hard work to scrape varnish; first heat it up with a heat gun (REALLY powerful and HOT blow dryer) then you take a small flat tool and scrape the softened varnish off of the wood. (at all costs, avoid having the hot metal tip of the gun touch any part of your skin, YIKES-wearing gloves helps). Now try it looking up where the hot little strips of varnish rain down on you. Fortunatly my glasses protect my eyes. It is difficult work and goes slowly, but I think I made real progress. Another few hours/days and I'll be ready for the fun/pretty stuff!
I'm working away, and I think I should document this, as I hope to NEVER do it again. Did I mention our bowsprit is all about the nooks, crannies and hard to reach places? I ask Marcus to get the camera and take a picture of this. He thinks I want a picture of the bowsprit and I have to explain I want a picture of ME working on the boat. It never crosses his mind that someone would want a picture with a person in it. In his mind that just clutters up the view. I rarely see a moment when a picture wouldn't benefit from a smiling face in it. See Mars and Venus!
Yesterday was under the bowsprit day. I got in our skiff with a heat gun and scraper and got started. It is hard work to scrape varnish; first heat it up with a heat gun (REALLY powerful and HOT blow dryer) then you take a small flat tool and scrape the softened varnish off of the wood. (at all costs, avoid having the hot metal tip of the gun touch any part of your skin, YIKES-wearing gloves helps). Now try it looking up where the hot little strips of varnish rain down on you. Fortunatly my glasses protect my eyes. It is difficult work and goes slowly, but I think I made real progress. Another few hours/days and I'll be ready for the fun/pretty stuff!
I'm working away, and I think I should document this, as I hope to NEVER do it again. Did I mention our bowsprit is all about the nooks, crannies and hard to reach places? I ask Marcus to get the camera and take a picture of this. He thinks I want a picture of the bowsprit and I have to explain I want a picture of ME working on the boat. It never crosses his mind that someone would want a picture with a person in it. In his mind that just clutters up the view. I rarely see a moment when a picture wouldn't benefit from a smiling face in it. See Mars and Venus!
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
More work
Bought material for weather cloths. I hope to put our boat name on them so while we are underway people can identify us. Fine tuning the wind catcher for the front hatch. Repairing the bad caulk on our teak decks, and washing and applying Penofin to the brightwork. (all the pretty wood on the boat for you landlubbers).
The weather has helped me going in the mornings; you don't want to be scrubbing woodwork in the 100+ degree heat.
Marcus is getting pretty good a caulking the decks, we found a good product and he has done enough of the work to get really good at it.
Exciting news! Western Grace leaves Canada at the end of the month and will be in San Francisco in 2 weeks on there way to Mexico. We are looking forward to visiting with John and Joanne. If you are interested in serious sailing, or just hanging around Mexico, for the trip of a lifetime, go to http://www.westerngrace.ca/ We highly recommend John and Joanne, whether you want to learn more about sailing, improve/test your skills, snorkel in beautiful secluded coves, and so much more. They have expanded their route to include not only Mexico but Hawaii and Tahiti as well.
OK back to work!!
The weather has helped me going in the mornings; you don't want to be scrubbing woodwork in the 100+ degree heat.
Marcus is getting pretty good a caulking the decks, we found a good product and he has done enough of the work to get really good at it.
Exciting news! Western Grace leaves Canada at the end of the month and will be in San Francisco in 2 weeks on there way to Mexico. We are looking forward to visiting with John and Joanne. If you are interested in serious sailing, or just hanging around Mexico, for the trip of a lifetime, go to http://www.westerngrace.ca/ We highly recommend John and Joanne, whether you want to learn more about sailing, improve/test your skills, snorkel in beautiful secluded coves, and so much more. They have expanded their route to include not only Mexico but Hawaii and Tahiti as well.
OK back to work!!
Friday, September 18, 2009
Work Work Work
Business is picking up. GREAT! EXCITING! NEEDED! But as I look around at the "little projects" I have successfully postponed, I realize, for the umpteenth thim I need to buckle down and finish some things.
Remember when I said I work better under pressure? Now is my chance to prove it. So no more internet surfing and research, time to go to work. Now where did I put that to do list?
Remember when I said I work better under pressure? Now is my chance to prove it. So no more internet surfing and research, time to go to work. Now where did I put that to do list?
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Spending Like a Drunken Sailor
I’m trying to kindle in myself the urgency required to take action on the many things that I can, and do, put off. The departure date sometimes seems so close and sometimes far away. I am a procrastinator by nature, and tell everyone I work better under pressure. Probably because I put myself in the position to be under pressure so often, it has HAD to work for me. But with the trip to the bay in the rear view mirror, I see how much needed to be done, and it helped me with the fire I need to use to move me forward.
I found posting an item for sale on eBay is unbelievably easy! I found this because some of my great clothes that will NOT be useful in Mexico on a boat were just too hard to drop off at the Goodwill. So, although I may not really make much money with my eBay endeavors, I know that the people I am placing my beloved “things” with have found value enough to pay me to mail them (is there a name for this disorder?).
Hmm, this is turning into my SECOND post on “stuff”. I really believe this trip may go a long way towards healing my acquisition affliction (wait, thought I was over this).
The only thing I spend time and money on now is boat stuff. I joke that each payday we go to West Marine and just sign our checks over to them. OK, it just feels that way. We are past the research and development stage and full bore to the acquisition stage. Through-hulls, hammocks for veggies, grease, water filters, gas filters, sandals, bathing suits (hey a girl has to have SOMETHING to wear) fans, screws, fittings, gaskets, and the list goes on and on.
So it feels like we are turning a corner, one of many to be sure. Buying school supplies for the kids, batteries, and other things to trade for fish, shrimp and hopefully langostina, or Baja lobster (I have yet to taste this delicacy!) Off to the store for more stuff!!!!
I found posting an item for sale on eBay is unbelievably easy! I found this because some of my great clothes that will NOT be useful in Mexico on a boat were just too hard to drop off at the Goodwill. So, although I may not really make much money with my eBay endeavors, I know that the people I am placing my beloved “things” with have found value enough to pay me to mail them (is there a name for this disorder?).
Hmm, this is turning into my SECOND post on “stuff”. I really believe this trip may go a long way towards healing my acquisition affliction (wait, thought I was over this).
The only thing I spend time and money on now is boat stuff. I joke that each payday we go to West Marine and just sign our checks over to them. OK, it just feels that way. We are past the research and development stage and full bore to the acquisition stage. Through-hulls, hammocks for veggies, grease, water filters, gas filters, sandals, bathing suits (hey a girl has to have SOMETHING to wear) fans, screws, fittings, gaskets, and the list goes on and on.
So it feels like we are turning a corner, one of many to be sure. Buying school supplies for the kids, batteries, and other things to trade for fish, shrimp and hopefully langostina, or Baja lobster (I have yet to taste this delicacy!) Off to the store for more stuff!!!!
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Pink Jobs
I do mostly the “pink” jobs on a boat; provisioning, sewing, cooking, dishes and cleaning. I know this is a not politically correct term, but the phrase is still used. Maybe because cruising women tend to be secure in their abilities onboard, it is acceptable to use such sexist terms. I also, mend sails, turn wrenches, scrape wood, calk, navigate, drive, research, raise the main, and trim the sails. Should Marcus go overboard at sea, his life is in my hands, so I better know how to turn this ship around and go pick him up!
On a boat there are immediate and negative consequences if you are not organized. The galley is not like your kitchen at home. It starts with provisioning, or grocery shopping for you landlubbers. Those of you who know me know home organization is NOT my strong suite.
I have a detailed map of every storage nook and cranny in my boat with elaborate codes to tell me where to locate things. S for starboard, P for port, b for basement (under floorboards) cu for cupboard, sh for shelf, F for forward, v for V berth (the point of the boat where our bed is). Example: Cake mix- ScuF, or something like that, it is a work in progress. The immediate and negative consequence in this case is emptying out cupboards and lifting up boards till you find the missing can of tomato paste. Of course you understand this is all in theory, I’ll get back to you in a couple of months!
Loading my ice box is like strategically planning a battle. OK, what needs to be coldest, what will I use first, what needs to be on top so it won’t be crushed. It helps if you memorize where everything is so you can open the top for the least amount of time possible, sometimes it even works.
Cooking is like standing in a broom closet, while doing dishes, I lean slightly to the right and touch the stove and the ice box is in the corner between the sink and stove. Every time I open the ice box to get something I have to move anything I am preparing. In addition, everything is moving, even at anchor, a swell can make an interesting experience.
After a long day of sailing, first thing you need to do at anchor is make dinner! Breakfast underway is simple, cereal; lunch a sandwich or warmed up soup. Part of my job is morale officer, and a hot tasty dinner goes a long way towards keeping everyone happy and healthy.
Pink jobs? You bet! While it takes a lot of forethought and is a lot more difficult than on land. I think I'm up to the challenge!
On a boat there are immediate and negative consequences if you are not organized. The galley is not like your kitchen at home. It starts with provisioning, or grocery shopping for you landlubbers. Those of you who know me know home organization is NOT my strong suite.
I have a detailed map of every storage nook and cranny in my boat with elaborate codes to tell me where to locate things. S for starboard, P for port, b for basement (under floorboards) cu for cupboard, sh for shelf, F for forward, v for V berth (the point of the boat where our bed is). Example: Cake mix- ScuF, or something like that, it is a work in progress. The immediate and negative consequence in this case is emptying out cupboards and lifting up boards till you find the missing can of tomato paste. Of course you understand this is all in theory, I’ll get back to you in a couple of months!
Loading my ice box is like strategically planning a battle. OK, what needs to be coldest, what will I use first, what needs to be on top so it won’t be crushed. It helps if you memorize where everything is so you can open the top for the least amount of time possible, sometimes it even works.
Cooking is like standing in a broom closet, while doing dishes, I lean slightly to the right and touch the stove and the ice box is in the corner between the sink and stove. Every time I open the ice box to get something I have to move anything I am preparing. In addition, everything is moving, even at anchor, a swell can make an interesting experience.
After a long day of sailing, first thing you need to do at anchor is make dinner! Breakfast underway is simple, cereal; lunch a sandwich or warmed up soup. Part of my job is morale officer, and a hot tasty dinner goes a long way towards keeping everyone happy and healthy.
Pink jobs? You bet! While it takes a lot of forethought and is a lot more difficult than on land. I think I'm up to the challenge!
Friday, September 4, 2009
Company's Coming!
8/31/09
Jake and Juliet of Pisces are coming for a visit! Tidy up the boat a bit (looks like a dorm room); inflate the dinghy and Marcus rows off to pick them up. We have never met, yet we greet each other like old friends; it feels like we have known them for years. Through their blog I have been following them on their journey down the coast for over a year. The talk immediately turns to boats, rigging, amps, food storage, engines, weather, and showing off the boat. It is amazing how much of a kinship you can feel with people that are a generation apart.
We could have talked all day, but we needed to leave with the tide and all too soon; time and tide wait for no man. Determined to meet again, a date is set. Tacos in Mazatlan, our first Mexico date! Of course, the odds of it ACTUALLY being in Mazatlan are slim, but their plan is to travel North from Acapulco, and we will be heading south from Cabo San Lucas, so we will meet somewhere in the middle.
The warmth and generosity of cruisers is wonderful. From the “high end” to the econo cruisers, all are friendly and freely share.
The clock is ticking but we purposefully slow ourselves to make sure we are diligent in performing the anchor up checklist, dinghy stowed, water valves closed, and nothing loose to fly across the cabin.
We head out for Raccoon Straights, between Tiburon and Angel Island. Soon, we are cruising along; our first sail in the bay with our own boat! Winds are light and on the beam, perfect for sailing with the Jib, Mizzen and Main up. I know we look pretty, where is a photographer when you need one? Just past Richmond Bridge, in San Pablo Bay, we ghost along at 2 knots (about 2.2 mph slow even by sailboat standards) and begin to think about starting the motor when the wind pipes up, shortly, we are flying!! Now, overpowered (too much sail up) we start dropping sails, wow, wild ride! We have a “lively” sail across San Pablo Bay, and drop the sails just past the Carquinez Bridge right about sunset.
It has been a long and tiring 3 days, and we treat ourselves to a night at Glen Cove Marina. It is a really beautiful marina with a large Victorian type home as the centerpiece; you can almost see the retired sea captain on the deck. I am at the helm and Marcus is forward with the dock lines at the ready. The tricky berth we have at Owl Harbor and all the close quarter docking practice will come in handy here. A narrow entrance and a dogleg turn lead us past the local sailors and to the visitors dock. We work great as a team, and I pilot Quiet Moon gently to her dock for the night.
Jake and Juliet of Pisces are coming for a visit! Tidy up the boat a bit (looks like a dorm room); inflate the dinghy and Marcus rows off to pick them up. We have never met, yet we greet each other like old friends; it feels like we have known them for years. Through their blog I have been following them on their journey down the coast for over a year. The talk immediately turns to boats, rigging, amps, food storage, engines, weather, and showing off the boat. It is amazing how much of a kinship you can feel with people that are a generation apart.
We could have talked all day, but we needed to leave with the tide and all too soon; time and tide wait for no man. Determined to meet again, a date is set. Tacos in Mazatlan, our first Mexico date! Of course, the odds of it ACTUALLY being in Mazatlan are slim, but their plan is to travel North from Acapulco, and we will be heading south from Cabo San Lucas, so we will meet somewhere in the middle.
The warmth and generosity of cruisers is wonderful. From the “high end” to the econo cruisers, all are friendly and freely share.
The clock is ticking but we purposefully slow ourselves to make sure we are diligent in performing the anchor up checklist, dinghy stowed, water valves closed, and nothing loose to fly across the cabin.
We head out for Raccoon Straights, between Tiburon and Angel Island. Soon, we are cruising along; our first sail in the bay with our own boat! Winds are light and on the beam, perfect for sailing with the Jib, Mizzen and Main up. I know we look pretty, where is a photographer when you need one? Just past Richmond Bridge, in San Pablo Bay, we ghost along at 2 knots (about 2.2 mph slow even by sailboat standards) and begin to think about starting the motor when the wind pipes up, shortly, we are flying!! Now, overpowered (too much sail up) we start dropping sails, wow, wild ride! We have a “lively” sail across San Pablo Bay, and drop the sails just past the Carquinez Bridge right about sunset.
It has been a long and tiring 3 days, and we treat ourselves to a night at Glen Cove Marina. It is a really beautiful marina with a large Victorian type home as the centerpiece; you can almost see the retired sea captain on the deck. I am at the helm and Marcus is forward with the dock lines at the ready. The tricky berth we have at Owl Harbor and all the close quarter docking practice will come in handy here. A narrow entrance and a dogleg turn lead us past the local sailors and to the visitors dock. We work great as a team, and I pilot Quiet Moon gently to her dock for the night.
Sausalito
8/30/09
At anchor in Richardson Bay, we ARE the view for Sausalito! We take the opportunity to do some boat chores, which naturally, take longer than anticipated. FYI the stencil kit sold for inflatable’s does NOT work like stencils and spray paint. Drop me a line for dinghy lettering 101. Late afternoon trip ashore, I’ll spare you the aromatic motivation, just a word of advice - makes sure you have a useable holding tank before you leave.
We had a nice walk to a gourmet market called Molly Stone’s for ice and bread. Looking around, we could shop here for hours, and spends lots of money! Yummy treats all around. So the walk to the market is what we expect in Mexico, no doubt in our minds, the markets will look nothing like Molly’s!
At anchor in Richardson Bay, we ARE the view for Sausalito! We take the opportunity to do some boat chores, which naturally, take longer than anticipated. FYI the stencil kit sold for inflatable’s does NOT work like stencils and spray paint. Drop me a line for dinghy lettering 101. Late afternoon trip ashore, I’ll spare you the aromatic motivation, just a word of advice - makes sure you have a useable holding tank before you leave.
We had a nice walk to a gourmet market called Molly Stone’s for ice and bread. Looking around, we could shop here for hours, and spends lots of money! Yummy treats all around. So the walk to the market is what we expect in Mexico, no doubt in our minds, the markets will look nothing like Molly’s!
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
That's not a wake, that's a surf break!
8/28/09
Long day of motoring, winds on the nose and you can’t sail into that. By 7pm we made it to San Pablo Bay and decide to anchor just east of Pinole Point. Nice and quiet, we settle in for some Orange chicken and brown rice, always nice to have a hot meal after a full day.
Ice is holding up well, thank you Julia of Pisces for the idea to add a layer of reflective insulation to the ice box; I raise my glass of ice cubes to you!
We watch as a fast ferry passes in the distance, wow, they are fast. The water shooting up behind them is a huge foamy wave, now if we only had a surf board. Surprise 15 minutes later the wave arrives, we are beam on (sideways) and we start rocking and rolling!! Lucky for us, the ferry runs stop about 11, and we finally got some sleep.
Sitting in the cockpit, watching a spectacular sunset is the perfect end to the day. It seemed to last forever with brilliant shades of orange and red, the lights reflecting on the windows across the bay. Interesting how lighting can make things prettier, even an oil processing plant looks lovely lit up. The lights of Pinole reflect on the shimmering water and make pillars of lights.
Long day of motoring, winds on the nose and you can’t sail into that. By 7pm we made it to San Pablo Bay and decide to anchor just east of Pinole Point. Nice and quiet, we settle in for some Orange chicken and brown rice, always nice to have a hot meal after a full day.
Ice is holding up well, thank you Julia of Pisces for the idea to add a layer of reflective insulation to the ice box; I raise my glass of ice cubes to you!
We watch as a fast ferry passes in the distance, wow, they are fast. The water shooting up behind them is a huge foamy wave, now if we only had a surf board. Surprise 15 minutes later the wave arrives, we are beam on (sideways) and we start rocking and rolling!! Lucky for us, the ferry runs stop about 11, and we finally got some sleep.
Sitting in the cockpit, watching a spectacular sunset is the perfect end to the day. It seemed to last forever with brilliant shades of orange and red, the lights reflecting on the windows across the bay. Interesting how lighting can make things prettier, even an oil processing plant looks lovely lit up. The lights of Pinole reflect on the shimmering water and make pillars of lights.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
A whole lot of shakin' going on
Preparing for a “shakedown” cruise. We are heading to San Francisco Bay for a few days this weekend. It has really opened our eyes to how much we really need to do before leaving. This week has been a busy week anyway, so in the evenings we are cleaning, installing reef hooks, radio, filling water and fuel tanks, Food, ice, clothes, GPS, books, tools, and the list goes on . . .
We added water to the tanks the other night, and turned on the water pump. Yahoo! We hear water gurgling in the pipes, we may have water pressure. Wait, it is still not coming out, hmm, I hear water somewhere. Oh, it is in the cockpit, close that drain. Still none coming out of the sink, WAIT the hot water line in the head is leaking big time. OK one more thing to fix, but we are happy to have things go wrong in port or at least close to home. I would rather have things go wrong here than “out there”.
There is a bit of stress involved with all of this, we wanted to leave Thur. night, but just don’t think that is going to happen. Friday morning it is. Tides, winds, it all factors in.
Before going to Mexico we still need to get the dingy motor up and running, sew weather cloths, put grommets on the sun tarps, and install an inverter, auto pilot. So many things and so little time. But it is good to work really hard now so we won’t be trying to do it all in the last 2 weeks.
It is said you will never be ready, but you have to do the best you can and go.
We added water to the tanks the other night, and turned on the water pump. Yahoo! We hear water gurgling in the pipes, we may have water pressure. Wait, it is still not coming out, hmm, I hear water somewhere. Oh, it is in the cockpit, close that drain. Still none coming out of the sink, WAIT the hot water line in the head is leaking big time. OK one more thing to fix, but we are happy to have things go wrong in port or at least close to home. I would rather have things go wrong here than “out there”.
There is a bit of stress involved with all of this, we wanted to leave Thur. night, but just don’t think that is going to happen. Friday morning it is. Tides, winds, it all factors in.
Before going to Mexico we still need to get the dingy motor up and running, sew weather cloths, put grommets on the sun tarps, and install an inverter, auto pilot. So many things and so little time. But it is good to work really hard now so we won’t be trying to do it all in the last 2 weeks.
It is said you will never be ready, but you have to do the best you can and go.
Refrigeration, we don't need no stinking refrigeration
8/24/09
So why can’t I have refrigeration anyway? Technical aside: When you are on a boat, not at the dock, you are relatively self sustaining. If you want to run things like lights, computers, refrigerators and such, you need a power source. We have batteries that allow for lights, but you must use them judiciously as they will eventually die. You can recharge the batteries with the engine, but that takes diesel. And I personally don’t want to be a slave to running the engine 2 hours a day to charge up everything. Picture a quiet bay relaxing, enjoying the day, then add the chug of an engine for several hours instead of the chirp of birds, and the lapping of waves.
We wanted to have solar panels that would recharge the batteries and give us much more flexibility in what electrical equipment we have onboard, but money rears its ugly head yet again.
So continues the search for information on what needs to be refrigerated, and what doesn’t. Instead of buying huge quantities of mayonnaise, jam, cheese, and the like. Smaller containers will be used quicker and less likely to go bad.
One of my favorite blogs for the past year has been http://svpisces.blogspot.com/
Jacob and Julia did almost the same trip we are planning at the same time and in a similar sized boat. It was so great to hear about events, good bad and ugly, along the way. It helped me get a feel for what to expect.
So why can’t I have refrigeration anyway? Technical aside: When you are on a boat, not at the dock, you are relatively self sustaining. If you want to run things like lights, computers, refrigerators and such, you need a power source. We have batteries that allow for lights, but you must use them judiciously as they will eventually die. You can recharge the batteries with the engine, but that takes diesel. And I personally don’t want to be a slave to running the engine 2 hours a day to charge up everything. Picture a quiet bay relaxing, enjoying the day, then add the chug of an engine for several hours instead of the chirp of birds, and the lapping of waves.
We wanted to have solar panels that would recharge the batteries and give us much more flexibility in what electrical equipment we have onboard, but money rears its ugly head yet again.
So continues the search for information on what needs to be refrigerated, and what doesn’t. Instead of buying huge quantities of mayonnaise, jam, cheese, and the like. Smaller containers will be used quicker and less likely to go bad.
One of my favorite blogs for the past year has been http://svpisces.blogspot.com/
Jacob and Julia did almost the same trip we are planning at the same time and in a similar sized boat. It was so great to hear about events, good bad and ugly, along the way. It helped me get a feel for what to expect.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Treasures
One of the challenges we have had is money, or lack thereof. One year ago I would have never considered leaving without refrigeration. We are, of course, civilized people. It is as if we remain safe, and warm (or cold) as long as ice cubes are intact. But as I realized the complication of living onboard with all the “things” I considered essentials, I began to understand that if I held tight to the stuff of civilization, as I saw it, we would never leave the dock. Either that, or we need to tow the Queen Mary.
We have gone from over 2000 sq. ft. to a 32ft boat. Someone described it as living in the hall of your house. To suggest we are heading for a minimalist lifestyle may be an understatement.
Simplicity leads to freedom, and that is a revelation to me. I who surround myself with stuff and things. I am a clutter-bug by birthright. My Father is a surrounded by things, my Uncle Carl is the keeper of the past. My Grandparents and beyond did not let go easily. I have passed this legacy on to my children; although in some, lucky for them, it has not taken hold.
But, if I give away my treasures, I find joy in that, and freedom. How nice it is not to have to find a place for this and that: to try to find the other thing, to dust this award or that memento. How wonderful to see my crystal proudly displayed at my daughter’s home or to see a casserole arrive at a family event in my beautiful dish.
Money can control us, and dictate our lives; if we let it. I am discovering what is important to ME. Not what TV or society thinks is important, but what do I value. Now that is a treasure.
We have gone from over 2000 sq. ft. to a 32ft boat. Someone described it as living in the hall of your house. To suggest we are heading for a minimalist lifestyle may be an understatement.
Simplicity leads to freedom, and that is a revelation to me. I who surround myself with stuff and things. I am a clutter-bug by birthright. My Father is a surrounded by things, my Uncle Carl is the keeper of the past. My Grandparents and beyond did not let go easily. I have passed this legacy on to my children; although in some, lucky for them, it has not taken hold.
But, if I give away my treasures, I find joy in that, and freedom. How nice it is not to have to find a place for this and that: to try to find the other thing, to dust this award or that memento. How wonderful to see my crystal proudly displayed at my daughter’s home or to see a casserole arrive at a family event in my beautiful dish.
Money can control us, and dictate our lives; if we let it. I am discovering what is important to ME. Not what TV or society thinks is important, but what do I value. Now that is a treasure.
Friday, August 21, 2009
3 months and 7 days, but who's counting
It is difficult to say exactly when this journey started. Was it when I went sailing in San Diego that summer and met the interesting Aussie crew that was delivering a beautiful yacht to Alaska? Was it the first time I picked up a Latitude 38 and read the stories of tropical coves, fascinating cultures, and sailing adventures? Was it the time Marcus and I laid on the foredeck of our soon to be first sailboat dreaming? Maybe it was the week we spent aboard the Benateau 47 "Caca Fuego", with our new found friends in the BVI? I know we were well on our way when we joined Western Grace with John and Joanne, Harry and Sailor Dave for an amazing trip down the coast of California and Baja.
After much searching and aiming at the moving target of the perfect yacht, we took the plunge (wait, plunge may a poor choice of words). In December 2008 we became the proud, if not a bit nervous owners of Quiet Moon, a 32 ft Fuji ketch. THAT purchase is another story.
So here we are after a slowly evolving journey of research and discovery buying the essentials at a breakneck speed. Our list of "absolute's" are being crossed off rapidly. It seems more things are being crossed off now because of lack of funds than due to purchasing of said items. The criteria now is, what is required for us to sail safely to Mexico.
I have lived and learned so much through the generous sharing of so many other sailor's experiences, I feel it is a responsibility to share our experiences in this process. Hopefully those who are on a similar journey will find vision, encouragment, information or comfort through our adventures.
After much searching and aiming at the moving target of the perfect yacht, we took the plunge (wait, plunge may a poor choice of words). In December 2008 we became the proud, if not a bit nervous owners of Quiet Moon, a 32 ft Fuji ketch. THAT purchase is another story.
So here we are after a slowly evolving journey of research and discovery buying the essentials at a breakneck speed. Our list of "absolute's" are being crossed off rapidly. It seems more things are being crossed off now because of lack of funds than due to purchasing of said items. The criteria now is, what is required for us to sail safely to Mexico.
I have lived and learned so much through the generous sharing of so many other sailor's experiences, I feel it is a responsibility to share our experiences in this process. Hopefully those who are on a similar journey will find vision, encouragment, information or comfort through our adventures.
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