Another gorgeous day in Paradise. I am so thankful to have this time here to relax and see some sights. Dick and I went for a long walk along the ICW. When we got back to the boat we got a call from Maura who was planning to come and have dinner with us. When she arrive we decided since it was Saturday night we would take her out for dinner at he European Village. When we got there the place was packed so we opted instead of waiting an hour for the place of choice we would change restaurants. It was great to meet with Maura (dolphin trainer from Marineland)
and share some time with her.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Boxing Day with no Car
Slept in until around 10:00 a.m. Wow its over and life goes on. We spent the day put sing around the boat taking stalk of things that have to be done before we leave. We were having a coffee in the cockpit when a couple came up the dock and introduded themselves. They said they were Canadians from Nova Scotia. They were in Palm Coast at at a private dock working on their 65 foot sailboat Road to the Isles. They had built the boat as Don worked summers as Skipper of the Blue Nose and winters he worked on his boat down here. The mast is too tall to do the ICW so they had lots of information to share about sailing on the ocean. They were telling us that the Bahama Crossing is not that bad as long as you get the right wind. By the time they were done they had infused this heart with a new passion to head out and finish the trip.
Stay tuned more to come.
Stay tuned more to come.
Christmas Dinner on Radical Jack
Thursday December 25, 2008 
Christmas Morning Dick and I got up and opened our presents that Mom Foster had sent. My stocking had a toaster in it so that was a good laugh after all this time.
Many thanks to our friends Heather and Peter on board Radical Jack who served up a beautiful meal of Cornish hen, roasted potatoes, green beans tomatoes and feta cheese appetizer and trifle and cream puffs for dessert. There were five of us who shared the fare.
In the evening we called our family at my sisters home in Ingersoll and did a google talk video call. Many thanks to google for allowing us to see our family especially our newest member baby Elyssa. Actually she performed amazingly in front of the camera computer. She is a real professional at this thanks to all the video clips her mommy makes to send to us. I was so happy to hear my son Josh had bought her a video camera for Christmas.
Christmas Morning Dick and I got up and opened our presents that Mom Foster had sent. My stocking had a toaster in it so that was a good laugh after all this time.
Many thanks to our friends Heather and Peter on board Radical Jack who served up a beautiful meal of Cornish hen, roasted potatoes, green beans tomatoes and feta cheese appetizer and trifle and cream puffs for dessert. There were five of us who shared the fare.
In the evening we called our family at my sisters home in Ingersoll and did a google talk video call. Many thanks to google for allowing us to see our family especially our newest member baby Elyssa. Actually she performed amazingly in front of the camera computer. She is a real professional at this thanks to all the video clips her mommy makes to send to us. I was so happy to hear my son Josh had bought her a video camera for Christmas.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Christmas Week in Paradise
Sunday December 21, 2008
Attended the Sunday service at Trinity Presbyterian. The church is an hour walk from here but the weather is grand and we enjoy seeing others of like mind. After lunch we took bike ride. It is so beautiful here and I am so enjoying the trip.
Monday December 22, 2008
Weather had taken a turn. High winds and rain all day. We watched TV and relaxed in our pj's most the day. Resembles times we have back home when we are off work for Christmas. Relaxation ended around 3:00 pm when the UPS truck delivered our new water pump for the engine. It came in a kit and Dick took it apart and spent several hours honing out the bearings
and only minutes to reassemble. By the time it was back on the engine it was to dark or to late to fire it up to see if it worked. Another day tomorrow.
Tuesday December 23, 2008
Back to a balmy day. After breakfast we fired up the engine and discovered a leak so we shut it down and tightened the screws. That seemed to work for the leak but there was no water coming out the exhaust so we shut it down and made a few adjustments. After about six tries Dick decided we just needed to prime it so after that the water started coming out the exhaust and the motor was purring like a kitten. After lunch we studied some charts and read some books. Quiet day.
Wednesday December 24, 2008
We got the bikes out and headed to Publix to finish shopping and pick up groceries. After lunch we took our favourite path down to the ICW and rode along the water. As much as we have seen you never get sick of viewing water front properties. Bye the time we got back I just had time to do an my hair and get ready to walk to the Candlelight Service. Trinity Presbyterian has about 700 members so when we got there the church was full of families. They had a group do a bell ringing service and then they had the choir come in. The music was fantastic and the glow of candles and 700 smiling faces very heart warming. I am in the Christmas mood now.
Dick and I had a late supper and watched Hallmark movies.
Thank you to everyone who has sent blog comments, emails and gifts. It has been a very different Christmas but very special all the same. To our parents we thank you for coming to visit and sending gifts. To our kids -we miss you and wish you were here. To Elyssa you never stop taking my breath away. Merry Christmas Everyone and good night.
Attended the Sunday service at Trinity Presbyterian. The church is an hour walk from here but the weather is grand and we enjoy seeing others of like mind. After lunch we took bike ride. It is so beautiful here and I am so enjoying the trip.
Monday December 22, 2008
Weather had taken a turn. High winds and rain all day. We watched TV and relaxed in our pj's most the day. Resembles times we have back home when we are off work for Christmas. Relaxation ended around 3:00 pm when the UPS truck delivered our new water pump for the engine. It came in a kit and Dick took it apart and spent several hours honing out the bearings
and only minutes to reassemble. By the time it was back on the engine it was to dark or to late to fire it up to see if it worked. Another day tomorrow.
Tuesday December 23, 2008
Back to a balmy day. After breakfast we fired up the engine and discovered a leak so we shut it down and tightened the screws. That seemed to work for the leak but there was no water coming out the exhaust so we shut it down and made a few adjustments. After about six tries Dick decided we just needed to prime it so after that the water started coming out the exhaust and the motor was purring like a kitten. After lunch we studied some charts and read some books. Quiet day.
Wednesday December 24, 2008
We got the bikes out and headed to Publix to finish shopping and pick up groceries. After lunch we took our favourite path down to the ICW and rode along the water. As much as we have seen you never get sick of viewing water front properties. Bye the time we got back I just had time to do an my hair and get ready to walk to the Candlelight Service. Trinity Presbyterian has about 700 members so when we got there the church was full of families. They had a group do a bell ringing service and then they had the choir come in. The music was fantastic and the glow of candles and 700 smiling faces very heart warming. I am in the Christmas mood now.
Dick and I had a late supper and watched Hallmark movies.
Thank you to everyone who has sent blog comments, emails and gifts. It has been a very different Christmas but very special all the same. To our parents we thank you for coming to visit and sending gifts. To our kids -we miss you and wish you were here. To Elyssa you never stop taking my breath away. Merry Christmas Everyone and good night.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Enjoying the Trip
Thursday December 18, 2008
Life had become some what routine of late and that is a good thing. We get up around 9:30 am and have breakfast in the cockpit surrounded by sunshine. We plan a day full of biking dinghy rides or sewing projects. In the morning I set up my sewing machine to work on a project. The light here is grand and the balmy breeze is such a joy. Dick had put his back out from biking yesterdays and wants to lay low for the day.
Friday December 19, 2008
For the week-end Peter added a new dynamic and rented a car. One of Detroit's best to pick up groceries. It was nice to have transportation to pick up the things we needed. In the morning I set up my sewing machine to work on a project. We dug out the charts of the Bahamas today and started studying them. I was happy to discover that the Explorer charts were in meters and not feet even if it is going to be a bit confusing for a while. We are planning our crossing and where we want to make it. People have been talking about the window of opportunity and I wanted to know exactly what that meant.
“Basically, a good weather window occurs when yesterdays breeze was SE at 15 knots or less and todays forecast is clocking toward S at no more than 15 knots and tomorrows forecast is S – SW at no more than 15 – 20 knots.” Explorer Charts page 2 (Near Bahamas) If we leave from Lake Worth
we steer E, SE and the Gulf Stream will cause us to drift north (average speed of current 2 knots). The distance is approximately 54 Nautical miles or leave from Miami and steer E and get blown north east. The distance is around 68 nautical miles. So the other factor to consider is how fast do you want to go. The northern route is against the current more and the southern route is longer but faster as the current is in a position to assist.
After dinner we walked over to the European Village and took in the lights and sites of the season.
Saturday December 20, 2008
Karin e-mailed us some information to set up our web cam for Christmas day. We got to watch Elyssa eat an apple for breakfast. Took a long ride in our dinghy to mail Nick's Birthday card and we could not get close to land to tie up as the tide was out near the public property. When we got back we walked over to the European Village to watch a choir and when we got back Peter and Heather asked us to go out for dinner. We got a call from Dick's family in Woodstock who were celebrating our family Christmas. It was great to hear from everyone. Sitting out in a Cafe watching a jazz band and eating Spinach Ravioli is just not putting me in the Christmas mood.
Life had become some what routine of late and that is a good thing. We get up around 9:30 am and have breakfast in the cockpit surrounded by sunshine. We plan a day full of biking dinghy rides or sewing projects. In the morning I set up my sewing machine to work on a project. The light here is grand and the balmy breeze is such a joy. Dick had put his back out from biking yesterdays and wants to lay low for the day.
Friday December 19, 2008
For the week-end Peter added a new dynamic and rented a car. One of Detroit's best to pick up groceries. It was nice to have transportation to pick up the things we needed. In the morning I set up my sewing machine to work on a project. We dug out the charts of the Bahamas today and started studying them. I was happy to discover that the Explorer charts were in meters and not feet even if it is going to be a bit confusing for a while. We are planning our crossing and where we want to make it. People have been talking about the window of opportunity and I wanted to know exactly what that meant.
“Basically, a good weather window occurs when yesterdays breeze was SE at 15 knots or less and todays forecast is clocking toward S at no more than 15 knots and tomorrows forecast is S – SW at no more than 15 – 20 knots.” Explorer Charts page 2 (Near Bahamas) If we leave from Lake Worth
we steer E, SE and the Gulf Stream will cause us to drift north (average speed of current 2 knots). The distance is approximately 54 Nautical miles or leave from Miami and steer E and get blown north east. The distance is around 68 nautical miles. So the other factor to consider is how fast do you want to go. The northern route is against the current more and the southern route is longer but faster as the current is in a position to assist.
After dinner we walked over to the European Village and took in the lights and sites of the season.
Saturday December 20, 2008
Karin e-mailed us some information to set up our web cam for Christmas day. We got to watch Elyssa eat an apple for breakfast. Took a long ride in our dinghy to mail Nick's Birthday card and we could not get close to land to tie up as the tide was out near the public property. When we got back we walked over to the European Village to watch a choir and when we got back Peter and Heather asked us to go out for dinner. We got a call from Dick's family in Woodstock who were celebrating our family Christmas. It was great to hear from everyone. Sitting out in a Cafe watching a jazz band and eating Spinach Ravioli is just not putting me in the Christmas mood.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Tuesday December 16, 2008
What a joy to get up and eat breakfast in the cockpit. The weather has changed a seasonal high. We even keep the hatches open at night now. After breakfast we had a little action at the marina when a new boat owner went to move his boat to a new slip. The engines were not functioning properly and fortunately he had a marine mechanic on board. We had some running around to prevent a collision. After they went to work on the boat we headed over to Europeon Village with Heather and Peter for lunch. Quiet evening onboard watching tv and reading.
Wednesday December 17, 2008
When we went to pick up the bikes today the gentleman told us about a bike path that runs along the ICW so we thought we would check it out. What a beautiful trip. I feel like a kid again. Touring around the area. It doesn't matter how well you ride as they have bike paths everywhere. We went back down to the mall to get some milk and rode past the golf course they are building. All this frolic and fun seems to have come to a crash landing for Dick as he put his back out today.
What a joy to get up and eat breakfast in the cockpit. The weather has changed a seasonal high. We even keep the hatches open at night now. After breakfast we had a little action at the marina when a new boat owner went to move his boat to a new slip. The engines were not functioning properly and fortunately he had a marine mechanic on board. We had some running around to prevent a collision. After they went to work on the boat we headed over to Europeon Village with Heather and Peter for lunch. Quiet evening onboard watching tv and reading.
Wednesday December 17, 2008
When we went to pick up the bikes today the gentleman told us about a bike path that runs along the ICW so we thought we would check it out. What a beautiful trip. I feel like a kid again. Touring around the area. It doesn't matter how well you ride as they have bike paths everywhere. We went back down to the mall to get some milk and rode past the golf course they are building. All this frolic and fun seems to have come to a crash landing for Dick as he put his back out today.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Welcome to Radical Jack
Sunday December 14, 2008
Dick and I got up and headed out to Trinity Presbyterian Church for the 10:55 service. We had done a good job of estimating an hour walk to get there. We made it in under the wire, threw the choir that congregate at the backdoor to make a splendid entrance down the aisles. When we got back to the boat we sat out in the cockpit for lunch and Dick switched on the VHF Radio. We were excited to hear Radical Jack was hailing the Marina operator. Heather and Peter had decided to stay in at Palm Coast for a couple of weeks and join us for Christmas. I was thrilled to hear this.
Monday December 15, 2008
We signed out the bikes and headed out to get groceries. When we got back I found Heather in a dress and relaxing. After lunch we headed over the bridge to the beach. Fortunately they have bike paths everywhere. The beach was gorgeous here. We hit it at low tide and the sand was made up of crushed seashells and there were rocks that were covered with a brilliant green algae. Oh the contrast in colour. The surf was pounding in and we could see a couple of surfers out taking advantage of the waves even though a sign clearly marked that there was Rip tides and rocks in the water. When we were heading back to the boat we saw a gentleman that comes down there everyday and he said you have to be there at the right time to catch it the way we saw it today. I am purposing to get the photo before we leave.
Stay tuned. Many thanks to Palm Coast Marina for waiving the bike rental fee.
Dick and I got up and headed out to Trinity Presbyterian Church for the 10:55 service. We had done a good job of estimating an hour walk to get there. We made it in under the wire, threw the choir that congregate at the backdoor to make a splendid entrance down the aisles. When we got back to the boat we sat out in the cockpit for lunch and Dick switched on the VHF Radio. We were excited to hear Radical Jack was hailing the Marina operator. Heather and Peter had decided to stay in at Palm Coast for a couple of weeks and join us for Christmas. I was thrilled to hear this.
Monday December 15, 2008
We signed out the bikes and headed out to get groceries. When we got back I found Heather in a dress and relaxing. After lunch we headed over the bridge to the beach. Fortunately they have bike paths everywhere. The beach was gorgeous here. We hit it at low tide and the sand was made up of crushed seashells and there were rocks that were covered with a brilliant green algae. Oh the contrast in colour. The surf was pounding in and we could see a couple of surfers out taking advantage of the waves even though a sign clearly marked that there was Rip tides and rocks in the water. When we were heading back to the boat we saw a gentleman that comes down there everyday and he said you have to be there at the right time to catch it the way we saw it today. I am purposing to get the photo before we leave.
Stay tuned. Many thanks to Palm Coast Marina for waiving the bike rental fee.
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Ray's visit
Friday December 12, 2008
We packed up early in the morning and headed out to the boat. The weather is bitter again. It was hard to say good-bye to my parents for six months so after they left we busied ourselves packing away all the supplies for the trip to the Bahamas. Fortunately my co-worker Ray and his family Liz and toddler Judah were vacationing in Daytona Beach and they arranged to come and visit us around 4:00 pm.
They arrive around 3:30 pm and Judah was squealing with glee to be on the boat and looking at all the big cruisers around us. Dick had put the dinghy in the water thinking this would be a big thrill for Judah but it actually put him to sleep. Ray and Liz took us out to get some dinner and we relaxed onboard with a cup of tea before they left.
Saturday December 13, 2008
Today was a rest. They had a lunch time meet and greet at the Marina we got to meet some other folks who are here full-time and monthly. Slept in the afternoon. Made egg salad for the party so finished it for supper. Received word today that Whippoorwill and Southern Cross are in Vero Beach, rafted on a ball and the weather does not sound any better that far south. Bandaris and Nice Butt are 20 miles south of them. Diane mentioned they will be in the US until after December 30. It is comforting to know the fleet is not to far out of our grasp.
We packed up early in the morning and headed out to the boat. The weather is bitter again. It was hard to say good-bye to my parents for six months so after they left we busied ourselves packing away all the supplies for the trip to the Bahamas. Fortunately my co-worker Ray and his family Liz and toddler Judah were vacationing in Daytona Beach and they arranged to come and visit us around 4:00 pm.
They arrive around 3:30 pm and Judah was squealing with glee to be on the boat and looking at all the big cruisers around us. Dick had put the dinghy in the water thinking this would be a big thrill for Judah but it actually put him to sleep. Ray and Liz took us out to get some dinner and we relaxed onboard with a cup of tea before they left.
Saturday December 13, 2008
Today was a rest. They had a lunch time meet and greet at the Marina we got to meet some other folks who are here full-time and monthly. Slept in the afternoon. Made egg salad for the party so finished it for supper. Received word today that Whippoorwill and Southern Cross are in Vero Beach, rafted on a ball and the weather does not sound any better that far south. Bandaris and Nice Butt are 20 miles south of them. Diane mentioned they will be in the US until after December 30. It is comforting to know the fleet is not to far out of our grasp.
Visit to Marineland on December 11, 2008
Thursday December 11, 2008
Called Maura a friend who works at the Dolphin Centre at Marineland and she invited us to come and see the Dolphins. It was a good day to sight see as it was pouring rain. It started in the morning and kept it up all day. We arrive at Marineland and were given a behind the scenes tour. There were no tourist there and Maura introduced us to all the Dolphins. There were two there who were swimming together and she said they were 55 years old. Apparently they only live to be 25 in the wild. We then headed out to get our provisions for the trip to the Bahamas and stored up can goods and fuel for the stove. After eating a Turkey Dinner at the Cracker Barrel Restaurant we headed back to the Condo and I had some time to sew before turning in for the night. Tonight is the last night with Mom and Dad and tomorrow we will pack up and head back to Palm Coast.
Called Maura a friend who works at the Dolphin Centre at Marineland and she invited us to come and see the Dolphins. It was a good day to sight see as it was pouring rain. It started in the morning and kept it up all day. We arrive at Marineland and were given a behind the scenes tour. There were no tourist there and Maura introduced us to all the Dolphins. There were two there who were swimming together and she said they were 55 years old. Apparently they only live to be 25 in the wild. We then headed out to get our provisions for the trip to the Bahamas and stored up can goods and fuel for the stove. After eating a Turkey Dinner at the Cracker Barrel Restaurant we headed back to the Condo and I had some time to sew before turning in for the night. Tonight is the last night with Mom and Dad and tomorrow we will pack up and head back to Palm Coast.
Day to enjoy the Condo
Wednesday December 10, 2008
Finally a warm and sunny day to enjoy the pool and beach at the Islander Beach Resort. We took a long walk in the morning and I got a collection of shells. We went for a swim and laid out around the pool. This is the first day there were people down there. In the afternoon Dick and I walked up to Flagler Beach Avenue and looked threw the stores. We spent a while in the Pottery talking to a guy by the name of Richard. They have been running the business for 16 years and this is their second location. The wifi is down so there will have to be a group post at he end of the week when we return to the boat.
Finally a warm and sunny day to enjoy the pool and beach at the Islander Beach Resort. We took a long walk in the morning and I got a collection of shells. We went for a swim and laid out around the pool. This is the first day there were people down there. In the afternoon Dick and I walked up to Flagler Beach Avenue and looked threw the stores. We spent a while in the Pottery talking to a guy by the name of Richard. They have been running the business for 16 years and this is their second location. The wifi is down so there will have to be a group post at he end of the week when we return to the boat.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Kennedy Space Centre
Tuesday December 9, 2008
Today we drove to the Kennedy Space Centre and took the bus tour. There is so much to see you could be there two days with your admission of $38.00. A guided tour is available for 59.00 per person. The bus drivers arrive for pick up every 15 minutes. I really enjoyed the film about the Apollo Mission that - landed on the moon. It is interesting to see history you have lived through. It was a full day and when we got back we had an 8:00 p.m. oven baked meal of Sheppard's Pie.
Today we drove to the Kennedy Space Centre and took the bus tour. There is so much to see you could be there two days with your admission of $38.00. A guided tour is available for 59.00 per person. The bus drivers arrive for pick up every 15 minutes. I really enjoyed the film about the Apollo Mission that - landed on the moon. It is interesting to see history you have lived through. It was a full day and when we got back we had an 8:00 p.m. oven baked meal of Sheppard's Pie.
Monday, December 8, 2008
The Condo Days
Thursday December 4, 2008
Thursday we busied ourselves with boat preparations and putsed around the marina. I had time to do laundry and Dick took the extra battery out to recharge. When we were almost done packing things away in the boat my mom came walking down the dock. We were stunned to see her arrive before 4:00 pm and since they had not turned their cell phone on we had not been able to get a hold of them or give them the correct address for the marina. Apparently non of that was essential as they found their way on their own. When they took us to the van there were a load of gifts from some of our friends at Hutton House and Mom Foster's box. Wow. We found a place for mom and dad to stay and went out for a Turkey dinner at Bob Evans. Dick and I kept the van and when we got back to the boat we sorted threw our mail and then temptation won out we could not keep our hands off those Christmas gifts from Hutton House. We promised we would leave mom's box until Christmas Day. My tea time buddy Ray had sent me two bags of tea, Nicole had filled a Grace C bottle with her own recipe and there were stockings and decorations (sluck from by gone door decorating contests). Thanks for the tea Heather and my quilt book devotional from Kelly who thought I might be missing my Ladies Guild in Port Stanley. We laughed and laughed and laughed. The gig was up. We could put up a few decorations now and somehow even though he boat would resemble “Trailer Trash Decorum” we knew it would be the best Christmas ever. Many thanks to LifeWorks for the beautiful cards and one card especially warmed our hearts. The people responsible will be hearing from us later.
Thanks so much you guys. It has been so hard to get into the Christmas Spirit but the real deal is the people you love and without that Christmas is not the same. This will be high in the memory banks for years to come. God Bless you all.
Friday December 5, 2008
Today we left our little boat home for a week. We picked mom and dad up at the Hotel in Palm Coast and spent the day getting groceries and shopping on our way to New Smyrna Beach. Having a car is such a thrill. Dick and I had to get the dinghy up on deck and pack things and get to the hotel by 11:00 am. We stopped at an out door market in Flagler Beach and picked up some oranges and veggies. The vendors are there on Fridays and Saturdays. I love the drive down 1A along the coast. The weather was sunny and warm. We were permitted occupancy at 4:00 pm. Mom and I made a delicious roast beef dinner. This is the first oven made food in three months.
Saturday December 6, 2008
Relaxing day in the Condo. Had “Toast” for breakfast and brewed coffee. Mom and Dad and I went to Wal-mart to pick up some sewing things I needed to finish my handbag. Dick and I went for a long walk on the beach in the afternoon and when we got to Breakers (Restaurant on the Flagler Ave \ beach) there was a Christmas Parade in progress. We got to watch it for about an hour and it was very interesting to connect bikini's with Christmas themes. My favorite part was the high school bands and the Little Majorettes. When we tried to log on to the wifi we discovered there was no service as they had had a power surge and their boxes had gotten fried. Little b logger is not to happy about this.
Sunday December 7, 2008
We got up and had breakfast and headed out to Christ Community Church for the morning service.
The church was packed and we headed to our seats. The pastor came by to welcome us. It was a beautiful service and reminded me of our church back home. During the final prayer a cell phone went off and I thought how annoying why don't people shut those things off. It seemed to be coming somewhere near our pew. I kept my eyes closed and head down. When we got back in the car we discovered that my brother-in-law had called us a few minutes before and so the annoying cell phone person was none other than my own mother. It was good to hear Bill's voice and learn that he temperature was -10 and 8 inches of new snow. When we got to the condo they were serving hot dogs for lunch and we relaxed in the afternoon and headed to a Live Nativity at St. Paul's Episcopalian Church.
Monday December 8, 2008
Woke up to the sound of surf. The windows had condensation from the cooler temperatures. We packed up the van and headed out to Palm Coast to return to Grace C. Dick had left a document on board from the mail mom had brought and to remain a retailer he had to get his pin number by December 8, 2008.
I guess we will squeak in under the line.
Thursday we busied ourselves with boat preparations and putsed around the marina. I had time to do laundry and Dick took the extra battery out to recharge. When we were almost done packing things away in the boat my mom came walking down the dock. We were stunned to see her arrive before 4:00 pm and since they had not turned their cell phone on we had not been able to get a hold of them or give them the correct address for the marina. Apparently non of that was essential as they found their way on their own. When they took us to the van there were a load of gifts from some of our friends at Hutton House and Mom Foster's box. Wow. We found a place for mom and dad to stay and went out for a Turkey dinner at Bob Evans. Dick and I kept the van and when we got back to the boat we sorted threw our mail and then temptation won out we could not keep our hands off those Christmas gifts from Hutton House. We promised we would leave mom's box until Christmas Day. My tea time buddy Ray had sent me two bags of tea, Nicole had filled a Grace C bottle with her own recipe and there were stockings and decorations (sluck from by gone door decorating contests). Thanks for the tea Heather and my quilt book devotional from Kelly who thought I might be missing my Ladies Guild in Port Stanley. We laughed and laughed and laughed. The gig was up. We could put up a few decorations now and somehow even though he boat would resemble “Trailer Trash Decorum” we knew it would be the best Christmas ever. Many thanks to LifeWorks for the beautiful cards and one card especially warmed our hearts. The people responsible will be hearing from us later.
Thanks so much you guys. It has been so hard to get into the Christmas Spirit but the real deal is the people you love and without that Christmas is not the same. This will be high in the memory banks for years to come. God Bless you all.
Friday December 5, 2008
Today we left our little boat home for a week. We picked mom and dad up at the Hotel in Palm Coast and spent the day getting groceries and shopping on our way to New Smyrna Beach. Having a car is such a thrill. Dick and I had to get the dinghy up on deck and pack things and get to the hotel by 11:00 am. We stopped at an out door market in Flagler Beach and picked up some oranges and veggies. The vendors are there on Fridays and Saturdays. I love the drive down 1A along the coast. The weather was sunny and warm. We were permitted occupancy at 4:00 pm. Mom and I made a delicious roast beef dinner. This is the first oven made food in three months.
Saturday December 6, 2008
Relaxing day in the Condo. Had “Toast” for breakfast and brewed coffee. Mom and Dad and I went to Wal-mart to pick up some sewing things I needed to finish my handbag. Dick and I went for a long walk on the beach in the afternoon and when we got to Breakers (Restaurant on the Flagler Ave \ beach) there was a Christmas Parade in progress. We got to watch it for about an hour and it was very interesting to connect bikini's with Christmas themes. My favorite part was the high school bands and the Little Majorettes. When we tried to log on to the wifi we discovered there was no service as they had had a power surge and their boxes had gotten fried. Little b logger is not to happy about this.
Sunday December 7, 2008
We got up and had breakfast and headed out to Christ Community Church for the morning service.
The church was packed and we headed to our seats. The pastor came by to welcome us. It was a beautiful service and reminded me of our church back home. During the final prayer a cell phone went off and I thought how annoying why don't people shut those things off. It seemed to be coming somewhere near our pew. I kept my eyes closed and head down. When we got back in the car we discovered that my brother-in-law had called us a few minutes before and so the annoying cell phone person was none other than my own mother. It was good to hear Bill's voice and learn that he temperature was -10 and 8 inches of new snow. When we got to the condo they were serving hot dogs for lunch and we relaxed in the afternoon and headed to a Live Nativity at St. Paul's Episcopalian Church.
Monday December 8, 2008
Woke up to the sound of surf. The windows had condensation from the cooler temperatures. We packed up the van and headed out to Palm Coast to return to Grace C. Dick had left a document on board from the mail mom had brought and to remain a retailer he had to get his pin number by December 8, 2008.
I guess we will squeak in under the line.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Grace C's new home for December
Palm Coast Resort MarinaWe arrive here on December 2, 2008 and what a surprise to fine Tony and Diane and Ab and Karen on the fuel dock. They just couldn't leave us behind without saying good-bye.
Mom and Dad if you are checking the blog this is what the entrance looks like. We are taking up residency for the month. That includesshowers, electricity, wifi, cable TV and laundramat on site. I am so looking forward to staying on a dock in one place for a while. My parents are on the way to pick us up and take us to New Smyrna Beach for a week. Shopping with a car, toast in the morning, can it get any better? I cannot wait to see my parents and have a little Christmas in Paradise.
Wednesday December 3, 2008
Yours truly got up and had a shower and made French Toast. We walked to a convenience store 2 miles and then back again. After lunch we took a dinghy ride on the canals around the marina. This is like living in Venus. Unfortuately all the land is private but we found a dental clinic at the end of one of the canals with a grocery store across the street so we feel confident to tie up there and get a few things.
The temperatures this week are in the low 40's at night and in the 60's in the daytime. Oh well I guess we will have to wait until we get farther south for a more summery forcast.If the blog is putting anyone to sleep now I apologize I am just so thankful to be enjoying a rest. I actually might get my sewing machine out tomorrow.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Hanging out
Monday December 1, 2008
Diane and Tony, Ab and Karen all meet us on shore for a day of touring. The guys went to check out a trawler and some boat shops and the girls went for a walk threw the old city. It is so beautiful here. We started our tour in a Catholic Basilica and went threw some shops. We agreed to meet the men in the afternoon at the Lightner Museum. The day flew by and we finished up by celebrating a meal together before we all split up in the morning. Tony and Diane are looking forward to getting to Delray Beach to see friends and Ab and Karin are planning to head to Miami. Dick and I are planning to take a dock for a month and spend sometime relaxing. We have booked a reservation at Palm Coast Marina. My parents are coming to join us from Dec 5-12/08 and a good friend will be here for the holiday. We have an opportunity to visit the Marineland as a daughter of our neighbours in Port works with the dolphins. We got word that Kathy and Larry are docking the boat here and Nice Butt will join them to go home for Christmas.
Diane and Tony, Ab and Karen all meet us on shore for a day of touring. The guys went to check out a trawler and some boat shops and the girls went for a walk threw the old city. It is so beautiful here. We started our tour in a Catholic Basilica and went threw some shops. We agreed to meet the men in the afternoon at the Lightner Museum. The day flew by and we finished up by celebrating a meal together before we all split up in the morning. Tony and Diane are looking forward to getting to Delray Beach to see friends and Ab and Karin are planning to head to Miami. Dick and I are planning to take a dock for a month and spend sometime relaxing. We have booked a reservation at Palm Coast Marina. My parents are coming to join us from Dec 5-12/08 and a good friend will be here for the holiday. We have an opportunity to visit the Marineland as a daughter of our neighbours in Port works with the dolphins. We got word that Kathy and Larry are docking the boat here and Nice Butt will join them to go home for Christmas.
First Service in 5 Weeks and an Afternoon Gale
Sunday November 30, 2008
We woke up to some brisk winds and choppy waters. It was questionable if we could make it to shore but decided to go for it. We attended the Methodist church in St. Augustine and it felt good to get to a service after five weeks of not being able to. When we got back to the dinghy there was an increase in the speed of the wind and the water was getting choppy. We went back aboard and waited out a gale that had been predicted for around 12:00 p.m. On schedule one of the woman at the church mentioned there was a tornado watch so we decided to stay on boat for the day. We reduced the canvas and battened down. The wind although high the clouds were very dark and ominous.
We woke up to some brisk winds and choppy waters. It was questionable if we could make it to shore but decided to go for it. We attended the Methodist church in St. Augustine and it felt good to get to a service after five weeks of not being able to. When we got back to the dinghy there was an increase in the speed of the wind and the water was getting choppy. We went back aboard and waited out a gale that had been predicted for around 12:00 p.m. On schedule one of the woman at the church mentioned there was a tornado watch so we decided to stay on boat for the day. We reduced the canvas and battened down. The wind although high the clouds were very dark and ominous.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Florida we made it.
Wednesday November 26, 2008
Many options had presented themselves at the Island of Jekyll one was stay another day, leave for Florida, or go up the St. Mary's River 6 miles to a Thanksgiving Gathering of boaters The possibility of heading 6 miles out of our way, finding some kind of dish to take to the gathering and having to turn around and head to another anchorages weighed heavily in our decision to leave and head for Florida.
This passage was the kind that I most preferred , a relatively short distance with lots of different things to see and arrive in our new destination early enough to tour the town we had arrived at. Vertigo 1 and Grace C were the only boats to choose this option on this day. Crossing into Florida was exhilarating.
The thought that we had almost accomplished our final destination was indescribable. Eating a quarter of a crows pie was way easier that eating a whole pie. If Grace C's engine decided to give out again and we be forced to abort the mission we could still always tell our Grand child, Nana and Poppa sailed to Florida once. Our first Port in Florida was Fernandina Beach, on Amelia Island. The sun was shining and the weather was warmer than it had been for a month. The town although it had heavy industry on both sides of it was attractive and friendly. We toured the shops and discovered that all the stores would be closed tomorrow so we headed out to the marina to get a cab and pick up our groceries. This is the beginning of the stocking up for the trip. After getting a card for the discounts a girl at the check out produced another token which magically before my eyes my 93.00 purchase became 73.00. Wow that will pay for the cab. People here are in that “Thanksgiving Spirit” prior to a day off feeling. We headed back to the boat to unload the groceries. Another wonderful day in paradise.
Thanksgiving Day in US – Thursday November 27, 2008
When we arrive on the shore the Dock Master waived the $5.00 landing and shower fee.
Since nothing was going to be open Diane and I decided we would do our Laundry. We were about half way done and a group of people came over and asked us what we were doing for Thanksgiving and would we like to come to have a Turkey dinner. It would be served at the Methodist Church six blocks away between 12 and 2:30 pm. Apparently this church instead of being home with their families decided to give of their time to make sure everyone in Fernandina Beach had a dinner to come to. They had historically gone to the harbour to pick up transient boaters and make sure they were provided for.(“boater gathering, no work and no going up the river out of our way, Oh I like it.”) By the time we were ready to go Whippoorwill had arrived and joined us. The meal was all home made and the atmosphere was charged with that unconditional love that comes from giving. After dinner we window shopped and headed back to the harbour to visit with Brandaris and Southern Cross. Fernandina
Beach you will be high in the memory bank forever.
Friday November 28, 2008
Today was a travel day. We lifted anchor and set out around 7:00 am the day was overcast and sunny at time. We enjoyed the ICW and all the beautiful homes along it. There were lots of dolphin sightings and it was fun to watch the pelicans nose dive into the water and almost belly flop. We headed out to St. Augustine and made it in around 3:30 pm. We decided to anchor just past the Bridge of Lions so we would not have to wait for it to open when we decided to leave. There is lots to see and do here so we are in no hurray to leave. Whippoorwill arrived shortly after we got in so we headed over to their boat to say hello. Tony and Diane joined us for some munchies and we went back to the boat for the night to relax and check our e-mail. St. Augustine provides free wifi.
Saturday November 29, 2008
We meet the fleet at the dinghy dock and headed out to go to the Sailor Exchange which is a place where you can get lots of used boat things. It was incredible to see and so many things. They even have end of rolls of Marine Sumbrella which was only $7.00 per yard. Ab and Karen joined us at a Diner on the way back to the boat. After lunch Karen and I found the Quilt Shop. It was full of beautifully cut and co-ordinated Fat Squares. It was so wonderful to see all that fabric in one place. The lady was from South Africa and she said she got into quilting because she could not work when she first came to the states so she made crafts and sold them. When Dick and Ab got back from taking the groceries etc. to the boat we headed up to view the Castillo de San Marcos, which was a huge fort that the Spanish had built in 1672 and completed in 1695. Apparently who ever had possession of it was never overthrown by its brilliant defense system.
We had taken a monthly tally and we have been anchored for 20 nights this month, been docked at a no cost to us for 4 nights and stayed at marinas for 6 nights. The budget seems to be having reprieve. :)
Many options had presented themselves at the Island of Jekyll one was stay another day, leave for Florida, or go up the St. Mary's River 6 miles to a Thanksgiving Gathering of boaters The possibility of heading 6 miles out of our way, finding some kind of dish to take to the gathering and having to turn around and head to another anchorages weighed heavily in our decision to leave and head for Florida.
This passage was the kind that I most preferred , a relatively short distance with lots of different things to see and arrive in our new destination early enough to tour the town we had arrived at. Vertigo 1 and Grace C were the only boats to choose this option on this day. Crossing into Florida was exhilarating.
The thought that we had almost accomplished our final destination was indescribable. Eating a quarter of a crows pie was way easier that eating a whole pie. If Grace C's engine decided to give out again and we be forced to abort the mission we could still always tell our Grand child, Nana and Poppa sailed to Florida once. Our first Port in Florida was Fernandina Beach, on Amelia Island. The sun was shining and the weather was warmer than it had been for a month. The town although it had heavy industry on both sides of it was attractive and friendly. We toured the shops and discovered that all the stores would be closed tomorrow so we headed out to the marina to get a cab and pick up our groceries. This is the beginning of the stocking up for the trip. After getting a card for the discounts a girl at the check out produced another token which magically before my eyes my 93.00 purchase became 73.00. Wow that will pay for the cab. People here are in that “Thanksgiving Spirit” prior to a day off feeling. We headed back to the boat to unload the groceries. Another wonderful day in paradise.
Thanksgiving Day in US – Thursday November 27, 2008
When we arrive on the shore the Dock Master waived the $5.00 landing and shower fee.
Since nothing was going to be open Diane and I decided we would do our Laundry. We were about half way done and a group of people came over and asked us what we were doing for Thanksgiving and would we like to come to have a Turkey dinner. It would be served at the Methodist Church six blocks away between 12 and 2:30 pm. Apparently this church instead of being home with their families decided to give of their time to make sure everyone in Fernandina Beach had a dinner to come to. They had historically gone to the harbour to pick up transient boaters and make sure they were provided for.(“boater gathering, no work and no going up the river out of our way, Oh I like it.”) By the time we were ready to go Whippoorwill had arrived and joined us. The meal was all home made and the atmosphere was charged with that unconditional love that comes from giving. After dinner we window shopped and headed back to the harbour to visit with Brandaris and Southern Cross. Fernandina
Beach you will be high in the memory bank forever.
Friday November 28, 2008
Today was a travel day. We lifted anchor and set out around 7:00 am the day was overcast and sunny at time. We enjoyed the ICW and all the beautiful homes along it. There were lots of dolphin sightings and it was fun to watch the pelicans nose dive into the water and almost belly flop. We headed out to St. Augustine and made it in around 3:30 pm. We decided to anchor just past the Bridge of Lions so we would not have to wait for it to open when we decided to leave. There is lots to see and do here so we are in no hurray to leave. Whippoorwill arrived shortly after we got in so we headed over to their boat to say hello. Tony and Diane joined us for some munchies and we went back to the boat for the night to relax and check our e-mail. St. Augustine provides free wifi.
Saturday November 29, 2008
We meet the fleet at the dinghy dock and headed out to go to the Sailor Exchange which is a place where you can get lots of used boat things. It was incredible to see and so many things. They even have end of rolls of Marine Sumbrella which was only $7.00 per yard. Ab and Karen joined us at a Diner on the way back to the boat. After lunch Karen and I found the Quilt Shop. It was full of beautifully cut and co-ordinated Fat Squares. It was so wonderful to see all that fabric in one place. The lady was from South Africa and she said she got into quilting because she could not work when she first came to the states so she made crafts and sold them. When Dick and Ab got back from taking the groceries etc. to the boat we headed up to view the Castillo de San Marcos, which was a huge fort that the Spanish had built in 1672 and completed in 1695. Apparently who ever had possession of it was never overthrown by its brilliant defense system.
We had taken a monthly tally and we have been anchored for 20 nights this month, been docked at a no cost to us for 4 nights and stayed at marinas for 6 nights. The budget seems to be having reprieve. :)
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Georgia two days before I could set foot on you
Saturday November 22, 2008
The temperatures are in the twenties and last night Tony gave us his electricity to let us use our electric heater. We slept in until 7:00 am it is amazing to see what heat will do to the human body. When I had gotten my clothes and winter coat on I headed over to Vertigo 1 for the Skipper's meeting. The local bridge was only opening at 10 and 2 that day the wind was around 25 knots so no one was anxious to leave. We finally made an executive decision to wait until the 2:00 opening and that gave the girls time to take a cab to the Good Will. After we had made our decision to leave we heard on the radio that Sinn Fein and Whipporwill and Brandaris were coming into Beaufort. Because of the cold we decided to take a dock up the way about 25 miles and so we stopped at Skull Creek. I made a delicious supper and slept like a baby for the first time. The most amazing provision they have is showers. After about 5 day without one I cannot describe the bliss to regain your minimum standard of hygiene again.
Sunday November 23, 2008
We slept in until 7:30 am so headed out in a rush with the rest of the fleet. We headed down Skull Creek to the Calibogue Sound to Cooper River and into New River which end our stay in South Carolina. We saw lots of dolphins. What a joy. Tonight we anchored in Kilkenny Creek off Bear River.
The fleet had made two long passages and we are starting to reduce the gap between here and Florida. We have 243 miles to New Smyrna and our visit with my parents.
Monday November 24, 2008
I have not had the Internet since Beaufort. Heard to sleep last night because of the cold. We had a long and stressful ride to day down the ICW. There is a lot of shoaling and going aground is very common place. Most of the really shallow areas we had warnings about have cleared so most of the trip was dealing with fears and not so much real situations. When we anchored Dick laid down for a much needed nap and Wayne radioed us to talk about maybe just going to Jekyll Island in Georgia and spending some time touring. This turned out to be a wonderful decision.
Tuesday November 25, 2008
Fast trip to Jekyll Island today. We traveled across St. Simon Sound and into a cut called Jekyll Creek and Dick and I were the lead boat. We have to monitor the water depths and watch the guides to see where they recommend you avoid the shoaling. Right behind us was a sailboat with his main up. Must be a local guy. We slowed right down and there was enough room for him to pass. I am sure he was thinking “out of towners” but I don't care. The island is a must see. We went for a tour on bikes with Ab and Karen and visited all the mansions. We picked up groceries and had time to get back to the restaurant for the reunion of all seven boats. What a grand day.
The temperatures are in the twenties and last night Tony gave us his electricity to let us use our electric heater. We slept in until 7:00 am it is amazing to see what heat will do to the human body. When I had gotten my clothes and winter coat on I headed over to Vertigo 1 for the Skipper's meeting. The local bridge was only opening at 10 and 2 that day the wind was around 25 knots so no one was anxious to leave. We finally made an executive decision to wait until the 2:00 opening and that gave the girls time to take a cab to the Good Will. After we had made our decision to leave we heard on the radio that Sinn Fein and Whipporwill and Brandaris were coming into Beaufort. Because of the cold we decided to take a dock up the way about 25 miles and so we stopped at Skull Creek. I made a delicious supper and slept like a baby for the first time. The most amazing provision they have is showers. After about 5 day without one I cannot describe the bliss to regain your minimum standard of hygiene again.
Sunday November 23, 2008
We slept in until 7:30 am so headed out in a rush with the rest of the fleet. We headed down Skull Creek to the Calibogue Sound to Cooper River and into New River which end our stay in South Carolina. We saw lots of dolphins. What a joy. Tonight we anchored in Kilkenny Creek off Bear River.
The fleet had made two long passages and we are starting to reduce the gap between here and Florida. We have 243 miles to New Smyrna and our visit with my parents.
Monday November 24, 2008
I have not had the Internet since Beaufort. Heard to sleep last night because of the cold. We had a long and stressful ride to day down the ICW. There is a lot of shoaling and going aground is very common place. Most of the really shallow areas we had warnings about have cleared so most of the trip was dealing with fears and not so much real situations. When we anchored Dick laid down for a much needed nap and Wayne radioed us to talk about maybe just going to Jekyll Island in Georgia and spending some time touring. This turned out to be a wonderful decision.
Tuesday November 25, 2008
Fast trip to Jekyll Island today. We traveled across St. Simon Sound and into a cut called Jekyll Creek and Dick and I were the lead boat. We have to monitor the water depths and watch the guides to see where they recommend you avoid the shoaling. Right behind us was a sailboat with his main up. Must be a local guy. We slowed right down and there was enough room for him to pass. I am sure he was thinking “out of towners” but I don't care. The island is a must see. We went for a tour on bikes with Ab and Karen and visited all the mansions. We picked up groceries and had time to get back to the restaurant for the reunion of all seven boats. What a grand day.
Cathedral of Worship Sunday November 23, 2008
This is where we went to Worship on Sunday November 23, 2008. The deacons were very slippery and preferred to be called Dolphins.
Friday, November 21, 2008
Updates at the Laundramat in Beaufort
Sunday November 16, 2008 to Monday November 17, 2008
Charleston
Charleston was like a reprieve from calamity in so many ways. We were tied to a huge floating dock at the Charleston City Marina which was a Mega Dock for huge boats. Luxury seems so surreal at this stage of the trip. We were happy to be tied to a dock even if it was 2.00 per foot and minimum of 35 foot boat. (we are 33). The first thing that confronted us but not the first time is they did not have shore power for 30 amp. (50 or 100 only). While we were assessing our situation of paying for a dock with no hydro a fellow yachters pulled up and he had a splitter so Dick talked him into letting us use that so we were able to have heat that night with our electric heater. We headed downtown for a tour after a shower and spent the rest of the day enjoying Charleston. It is so beautiful here but he temperature is just above freezing. Everyone keeps telling us it is not always like this here. :)
Monday I got up and did the laundry and headed downtown on the shuttle to get some groceries. The day before we went downtown with the men to the Market and they lasted about three minutes looking around and so they headed to a restaurant and so Diane and I looked threw the Market area. There were some things I wanted Dick to see so this was an opportunity to share them with him today and head back to the Marina on the shuttle before they closed. The Market we were told is where they traded slaves but one of the Shuttle Drivers told us they were traded on the waterfront and that these buildings were given to the slaves to make a living. Not having a descent wifi connection it will be hard to verify this at our Mega Dock. Our fellow yachter's wife decided he needed to get some of his amps back so they could run their all seasons heating system so we were without hydro for another dip to 30 degrees. Being tied to a dock does allow for a full night of relaxing sleep.
November 18, 2008
Stono River to Wadmalaw Sound to Wadmalaw River and into the South Edisto River to Anchor
We headed out today to get south where it is warm. The wind was howling again but we needed to keep moving south. The bridge beside the Marina did not open until 9:00 am so we had to wait for that. While we were circling around Wayne radioed Vertigo that his shaft was making a noise and he was going to go back and have it checked out. Vertigo 1 and Grace C headed threw the bridge and as we were going threw we heard Bandaris (Walter and Brenda) radioed the Charleston Marina that they were coming in. That is so cool now Wayne and Max and Niki will not be alone. We bucked the current all day until about the time that Tony suggested we stop and anchor. This was unthinkable for us but when you are sharing the journey you don't get to make all the decisions. This area of the ICW has large grass and marsh areas and not any trees close to the shore. Fortunately our mentor Tony found us an Anchorage on the South Edisto River with trees on the NW shore. When we pulled into the anchorage the wind was blocked, the water was deep enough right up to the shore and the hook set and we slept threw the night. It was early afternoon when we arrived so I pulled out my quilting and started to work on that. She worked until dark which comes around 4:30 pm We had bacon and eggs for supper and headed to bed to keep warm with a movie called Shadowland.
Wednesday November 19, 2008
South Edisto to Ashepoo River to Ashepoo Cutoff to Cooper River to Factory Creek at Beaufort.
Awoke to wristwatch alarm and headed out after a bang up job of cleaning the anchor. As my husband says on our “List of things about living aboard” the anchor takes longer to clean than the whole boat.
The wind had died and sun was out and although we were dressed in snow pants, gloves and toques we were not cold. The military planes were flying over us and so that was a big thrill to watch. Tony and Diane have a dock in Factory Creek at Beaufort that they are taking us to. When we arrived Mr. Wolffe greeted us and helped us tie up. We were invited up to their home to meet his wife Gail. Sitting in a house on a couch was very entertaining to me. Their house had a furnace and that was also lovely to be partaking of. There were lots of stories to tell so that kept us there for a few hours which was just grand. There kindnesses extended to taking us to get a new fan belt for another emergency and
Wal-mart to get groceries and Best Buy so Tony could get his computer fixed. When we left the bridge that swings was out of order so the traffic was busy. Oh well Mr. Wolfe was transporting us in his Land Yacht so that was very comfortable. We were invited back to their home for happy hour at 5:00 pm.
What a wonderful couple and so enjoyed all their hospitality.
Thursday November 20, 2008
Beaufort South Carolina
Slept in until 8:00 am and after Breakfast we took the sail down and I got my sewing machine out and repaired it. Setting up the machine was a huge high for me. Diane and I headed out to check out the Beauty of Beaufort and 146 pictures later we concur. The office for the Walking Tour had moved and when we got to the new one they were gone until 2:00 pm so with the map from the library we did our own tour. When Diane and I returned the guys had word that Nice Butt and Bandaris would arrive tomorrow and they had decided to layover another day. Although it would be great to see everyone again we need to keep making progress toward New Smyrna by December 5, 2008 to meet my parents. Dick and I discussed heading out on our own but not really an option at this point. Gail and her husband had another couple they know join them in their Land yacht but they still invited us to Happy Hour around 4:00 pm. After the gathering Diane and Tony headed out with us to pick up a pizza. While we were waiting for the pizza Diane and I headed down to a hardware and I found a set of scales to weigh myself and I was happy to discover that I have lost 20 lbs. Dick had picked up a couple of new movies at the Video Store but fresh air and all I don't remember seeing much of it.
Charleston
Charleston was like a reprieve from calamity in so many ways. We were tied to a huge floating dock at the Charleston City Marina which was a Mega Dock for huge boats. Luxury seems so surreal at this stage of the trip. We were happy to be tied to a dock even if it was 2.00 per foot and minimum of 35 foot boat. (we are 33). The first thing that confronted us but not the first time is they did not have shore power for 30 amp. (50 or 100 only). While we were assessing our situation of paying for a dock with no hydro a fellow yachters pulled up and he had a splitter so Dick talked him into letting us use that so we were able to have heat that night with our electric heater. We headed downtown for a tour after a shower and spent the rest of the day enjoying Charleston. It is so beautiful here but he temperature is just above freezing. Everyone keeps telling us it is not always like this here. :)
Monday I got up and did the laundry and headed downtown on the shuttle to get some groceries. The day before we went downtown with the men to the Market and they lasted about three minutes looking around and so they headed to a restaurant and so Diane and I looked threw the Market area. There were some things I wanted Dick to see so this was an opportunity to share them with him today and head back to the Marina on the shuttle before they closed. The Market we were told is where they traded slaves but one of the Shuttle Drivers told us they were traded on the waterfront and that these buildings were given to the slaves to make a living. Not having a descent wifi connection it will be hard to verify this at our Mega Dock. Our fellow yachter's wife decided he needed to get some of his amps back so they could run their all seasons heating system so we were without hydro for another dip to 30 degrees. Being tied to a dock does allow for a full night of relaxing sleep.
November 18, 2008
Stono River to Wadmalaw Sound to Wadmalaw River and into the South Edisto River to Anchor
We headed out today to get south where it is warm. The wind was howling again but we needed to keep moving south. The bridge beside the Marina did not open until 9:00 am so we had to wait for that. While we were circling around Wayne radioed Vertigo that his shaft was making a noise and he was going to go back and have it checked out. Vertigo 1 and Grace C headed threw the bridge and as we were going threw we heard Bandaris (Walter and Brenda) radioed the Charleston Marina that they were coming in. That is so cool now Wayne and Max and Niki will not be alone. We bucked the current all day until about the time that Tony suggested we stop and anchor. This was unthinkable for us but when you are sharing the journey you don't get to make all the decisions. This area of the ICW has large grass and marsh areas and not any trees close to the shore. Fortunately our mentor Tony found us an Anchorage on the South Edisto River with trees on the NW shore. When we pulled into the anchorage the wind was blocked, the water was deep enough right up to the shore and the hook set and we slept threw the night. It was early afternoon when we arrived so I pulled out my quilting and started to work on that. She worked until dark which comes around 4:30 pm We had bacon and eggs for supper and headed to bed to keep warm with a movie called Shadowland.
Wednesday November 19, 2008
South Edisto to Ashepoo River to Ashepoo Cutoff to Cooper River to Factory Creek at Beaufort.
Awoke to wristwatch alarm and headed out after a bang up job of cleaning the anchor. As my husband says on our “List of things about living aboard” the anchor takes longer to clean than the whole boat.
The wind had died and sun was out and although we were dressed in snow pants, gloves and toques we were not cold. The military planes were flying over us and so that was a big thrill to watch. Tony and Diane have a dock in Factory Creek at Beaufort that they are taking us to. When we arrived Mr. Wolffe greeted us and helped us tie up. We were invited up to their home to meet his wife Gail. Sitting in a house on a couch was very entertaining to me. Their house had a furnace and that was also lovely to be partaking of. There were lots of stories to tell so that kept us there for a few hours which was just grand. There kindnesses extended to taking us to get a new fan belt for another emergency and
Wal-mart to get groceries and Best Buy so Tony could get his computer fixed. When we left the bridge that swings was out of order so the traffic was busy. Oh well Mr. Wolfe was transporting us in his Land Yacht so that was very comfortable. We were invited back to their home for happy hour at 5:00 pm.
What a wonderful couple and so enjoyed all their hospitality.
Thursday November 20, 2008
Beaufort South Carolina
Slept in until 8:00 am and after Breakfast we took the sail down and I got my sewing machine out and repaired it. Setting up the machine was a huge high for me. Diane and I headed out to check out the Beauty of Beaufort and 146 pictures later we concur. The office for the Walking Tour had moved and when we got to the new one they were gone until 2:00 pm so with the map from the library we did our own tour. When Diane and I returned the guys had word that Nice Butt and Bandaris would arrive tomorrow and they had decided to layover another day. Although it would be great to see everyone again we need to keep making progress toward New Smyrna by December 5, 2008 to meet my parents. Dick and I discussed heading out on our own but not really an option at this point. Gail and her husband had another couple they know join them in their Land yacht but they still invited us to Happy Hour around 4:00 pm. After the gathering Diane and Tony headed out with us to pick up a pizza. While we were waiting for the pizza Diane and I headed down to a hardware and I found a set of scales to weigh myself and I was happy to discover that I have lost 20 lbs. Dick had picked up a couple of new movies at the Video Store but fresh air and all I don't remember seeing much of it.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Pictures
Here is a link to some pictures Ruth sent me to share with everyone since she was unable to upload them herself.
Click here for Pictures
Click here for Pictures
Message from Ruth:
Here are some photo's
Wifi here would not load to blog so I am trying this. Sitting in an Adirondack chair by the dock with dick's ski jacket on with an electric plug for my lap top.
Love you all
Ruth
Wifi here would not load to blog so I am trying this. Sitting in an Adirondack chair by the dock with dick's ski jacket on with an electric plug for my lap top.
Love you all
Ruth
Monday, November 17, 2008
Anchorages News
Friday November 14, 2008
Blustery day on the Nose. That has become the new buzz word for wind direction on this leg of the trip.
What is the wind direction for tomorrow and the next day, “On the Nose” so there we were bucking the tide and wind as we slowly progressed toward our destination which originally was Charleston but as I mentioned we had a bridge to catch before that and due to the fog in the morning we did not get our desired 7:00 am start. Dick and I took up anchor and moved to the town dock to take our garbage off and wait for the fog to clear. Progressing down the ICW around noon I headed down to make a sandwich and heard an slapping noise coming from the engine compartment. Dick came down to inspect the noise and I took over the wheel. I put it in neutral which was not such a good idea in a tide current because immediately it rounded up and we started going backwards. I slammed it into reverse to just go backwards and by then Dick had the door off and could see that a piece of the fan belt had peeled away and that it was still holding. Vertigo 1 deeked into Mc McClellanville to look for a dock for us to land and do the repair. When we came in the channel we went aground. There was a fuel dock but their hydro was out so we decide to get out of there before the tide got any lower. By now we knew we would not make it to the Ben Sawyner Bridge so we decided to pick an Anchorage on the way. Whiteside Creek was the selection it offered 10 -12 feet of water and no trees but high banks for wind protection. This stretch of the ICW was rather remote and not a lot of things to see but the Francis Marion National Forest. When we set our anchor we went aground and it took about 10 minutes for the tide to float her again. Tony and Diane joined us for dinner as I had made a huge potato salad the day before. Tried to call Joshua and wish him a Happy Birthday today but the phone would not work out here in the boonies.
Saturday November 15, 2008
Middle of the Night the winds kept building and gusting to I am told 35 knots. When I got up to go to the bathroom I noticed we were heeled over. Dick had gotten up to check on things and when I went to go back to bed I notice (threw the forward hatch) that the Genoa was loose a bit (about the size of a large watermelon and it was slapping really hard and snapping the rig. Dick tried to tighten the lines but the genoa sheets had gotten lodged some how and were wrapped all around it in a mess. The first fear wave attacked when I thought the fore stay could break and then the mast could fall down. Dick said we have to get it undone or we could loose the rig. That meant opening up the sail to unfurl it and reset it. The wind was so strong and the thought of doing that made me sick and then another thought came to me almost instantly about Jesus and the disciples in the boat and he rebuked the wind and it stopped so I put my fist in the air and said “Wind stop it, in Jesus Name. The most amazing thing happened and we almost did not realize it for a second or two as we kept working away at the sail but after we started letting more sail loose after each try the sail stopped snapping the rigging and we were able to completely unfurl it and reset it. The wind had subsided. When we got back in the boat Dick said to me that was a miracle. We closed our eyes to rest and his wrist watch alarm went off. Nothing could destroy that perfect peaceableness of going threw something like that.
I slept in until 1:00 pm. The fleet had decided not to move as the weather was going to continue with high winds, and rain storms. We put out more chain for the anchor to hold but that caused us to ride up on a high spot so we were a beached whale for about 5 hours. This can be stressful as the boat lays across the wind and heels over and keeps you on your toes. At about 9:00 pm we were free of the sandbar. After we were floating again Dick took up some of the chain to return us to our original mark. Glad we have the GPS – Still can't call Josh! I can't solve all the problems we keep coming into but I am thankful that the really scary out of control ones God is with us.
Blustery day on the Nose. That has become the new buzz word for wind direction on this leg of the trip.
What is the wind direction for tomorrow and the next day, “On the Nose” so there we were bucking the tide and wind as we slowly progressed toward our destination which originally was Charleston but as I mentioned we had a bridge to catch before that and due to the fog in the morning we did not get our desired 7:00 am start. Dick and I took up anchor and moved to the town dock to take our garbage off and wait for the fog to clear. Progressing down the ICW around noon I headed down to make a sandwich and heard an slapping noise coming from the engine compartment. Dick came down to inspect the noise and I took over the wheel. I put it in neutral which was not such a good idea in a tide current because immediately it rounded up and we started going backwards. I slammed it into reverse to just go backwards and by then Dick had the door off and could see that a piece of the fan belt had peeled away and that it was still holding. Vertigo 1 deeked into Mc McClellanville to look for a dock for us to land and do the repair. When we came in the channel we went aground. There was a fuel dock but their hydro was out so we decide to get out of there before the tide got any lower. By now we knew we would not make it to the Ben Sawyner Bridge so we decided to pick an Anchorage on the way. Whiteside Creek was the selection it offered 10 -12 feet of water and no trees but high banks for wind protection. This stretch of the ICW was rather remote and not a lot of things to see but the Francis Marion National Forest. When we set our anchor we went aground and it took about 10 minutes for the tide to float her again. Tony and Diane joined us for dinner as I had made a huge potato salad the day before. Tried to call Joshua and wish him a Happy Birthday today but the phone would not work out here in the boonies.
Saturday November 15, 2008
Middle of the Night the winds kept building and gusting to I am told 35 knots. When I got up to go to the bathroom I noticed we were heeled over. Dick had gotten up to check on things and when I went to go back to bed I notice (threw the forward hatch) that the Genoa was loose a bit (about the size of a large watermelon and it was slapping really hard and snapping the rig. Dick tried to tighten the lines but the genoa sheets had gotten lodged some how and were wrapped all around it in a mess. The first fear wave attacked when I thought the fore stay could break and then the mast could fall down. Dick said we have to get it undone or we could loose the rig. That meant opening up the sail to unfurl it and reset it. The wind was so strong and the thought of doing that made me sick and then another thought came to me almost instantly about Jesus and the disciples in the boat and he rebuked the wind and it stopped so I put my fist in the air and said “Wind stop it, in Jesus Name. The most amazing thing happened and we almost did not realize it for a second or two as we kept working away at the sail but after we started letting more sail loose after each try the sail stopped snapping the rigging and we were able to completely unfurl it and reset it. The wind had subsided. When we got back in the boat Dick said to me that was a miracle. We closed our eyes to rest and his wrist watch alarm went off. Nothing could destroy that perfect peaceableness of going threw something like that.
I slept in until 1:00 pm. The fleet had decided not to move as the weather was going to continue with high winds, and rain storms. We put out more chain for the anchor to hold but that caused us to ride up on a high spot so we were a beached whale for about 5 hours. This can be stressful as the boat lays across the wind and heels over and keeps you on your toes. At about 9:00 pm we were free of the sandbar. After we were floating again Dick took up some of the chain to return us to our original mark. Glad we have the GPS – Still can't call Josh! I can't solve all the problems we keep coming into but I am thankful that the really scary out of control ones God is with us.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Georgetown South Carolina - Layover Day
Dinghy to the wharf and check out the shops
Check out Grace C - anchor still holding back to check out some museums.
The clock tower reminded me of Back to the Future. This one is the Rice Museum.
Rice use to be a huge crop here when there were slaves to do the work.
Quiet afternoon, naping and resting from the walk into town. Dick spent afternoon trying to set up the Cam Recorder to talk to kids. Diane and Tony had us for a feast of Shrimp. Yummy
The plan tomorrow is to head to Charleston, providing we make it to a certain bridge by 4:00 p.m. It is closed from 4-6 for rush hour traffic and that makes it dark when we get in so we may have to anchor and head in in the morning.
Myrtle Beach here we come
Tuesday November 11, 2008
We travelled from St. James Plantation Marina to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Diane had a spot she knew of from their trip before. Near the Marina we stopped at called Barefoot Landing was a huge tourist mall built over lagoons with lots of wildlife to enjoy between stores. South Carolina has a different flavour than North and some of the trees and spanish moss give it that southern feel. When we arrive the woman took off to the mall and the guys decided to check out the hot tub which apparently is not heated this time of year so they joined us later at the mall. The afternoon temperature was very balmy but as the sun was setting it got rather cool so we headed back to the boat to get warm. Very happy to have found our electric heater as the temperatures were back close to 30's again. Did not see any alligators but everyone says they have them.
Wednesday November 12, 2008
Another get up and go by 7:00 am - oops we forgot to give Dick's key back so we had to dock again at the drop off box. Our boat is the slower of the three due to engine size but no worries there will be a lift bridge which is the great equalizer. Dick has started to call Tony "Tony Bobbie" as a take off on Ricky Bobbie as he loves to go fast. The weather is cool when you are in the wind. Dick helmed most of the way and I got a chance to clean the boat which takes 20 minutes tops. Around 3:00 p.m. we arrived in Georgetown and dropped the hook. The bottom here is very soft mud and anchoring is not always successful. Dick did an oil change and after a couple of hours we headed over to Nice Butt's to join the rest of the gang. They opted to get a dock and had been able to scout out the town. Apparently Georgetown is the third oldest city in the US. Anyway we are planning to have a layover day. The anchor seems to have slipped a bit after the thunderstorm hence the allnight vigilance.
We travelled from St. James Plantation Marina to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Diane had a spot she knew of from their trip before. Near the Marina we stopped at called Barefoot Landing was a huge tourist mall built over lagoons with lots of wildlife to enjoy between stores. South Carolina has a different flavour than North and some of the trees and spanish moss give it that southern feel. When we arrive the woman took off to the mall and the guys decided to check out the hot tub which apparently is not heated this time of year so they joined us later at the mall. The afternoon temperature was very balmy but as the sun was setting it got rather cool so we headed back to the boat to get warm. Very happy to have found our electric heater as the temperatures were back close to 30's again. Did not see any alligators but everyone says they have them.
Wednesday November 12, 2008
Another get up and go by 7:00 am - oops we forgot to give Dick's key back so we had to dock again at the drop off box. Our boat is the slower of the three due to engine size but no worries there will be a lift bridge which is the great equalizer. Dick has started to call Tony "Tony Bobbie" as a take off on Ricky Bobbie as he loves to go fast. The weather is cool when you are in the wind. Dick helmed most of the way and I got a chance to clean the boat which takes 20 minutes tops. Around 3:00 p.m. we arrived in Georgetown and dropped the hook. The bottom here is very soft mud and anchoring is not always successful. Dick did an oil change and after a couple of hours we headed over to Nice Butt's to join the rest of the gang. They opted to get a dock and had been able to scout out the town. Apparently Georgetown is the third oldest city in the US. Anyway we are planning to have a layover day. The anchor seems to have slipped a bit after the thunderstorm hence the allnight vigilance.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Gathering at the St. James Plantation Marina
Monday November 11, 2008
The passage today was only 20 miles but Walter had warned us to leave in time to get to the Fear River at a time when the tide would be in a favourable direction. There are lots of inlets which come in along this part of the ICW and when the tide is moving in one direction when you cross the inlet it can sometimes be going in the opposite direction. Making way against the tide is difficult but when it is going with you we were doing 7-8 knots. There were more dolphins to see and it was beautiful where the shore breaks away to the ocean. We landed our crafts at St. James Plantation Marina and fueled up. Because we were staying at a marina for the first time in a long time I had to find the dock lines and that little search produced our electric heater which will come in handy tonight when the temperature dips into the 30's. Brenda had a friend at the Marina let us use his car to go to Wal-mart and get groceries and navigational lights for the dinghy. We all gathered for dinner at the club restaurant and shared stories of our trip. There are three boats staying Bandaris and Southern Cross (engine repair) and Whipoorwill (layover) day.
Vertigo 1 and Nice Butt and Grace C are heading out tomorrow morning at 7:00 a.m.
The passage today was only 20 miles but Walter had warned us to leave in time to get to the Fear River at a time when the tide would be in a favourable direction. There are lots of inlets which come in along this part of the ICW and when the tide is moving in one direction when you cross the inlet it can sometimes be going in the opposite direction. Making way against the tide is difficult but when it is going with you we were doing 7-8 knots. There were more dolphins to see and it was beautiful where the shore breaks away to the ocean. We landed our crafts at St. James Plantation Marina and fueled up. Because we were staying at a marina for the first time in a long time I had to find the dock lines and that little search produced our electric heater which will come in handy tonight when the temperature dips into the 30's. Brenda had a friend at the Marina let us use his car to go to Wal-mart and get groceries and navigational lights for the dinghy. We all gathered for dinner at the club restaurant and shared stories of our trip. There are three boats staying Bandaris and Southern Cross (engine repair) and Whipoorwill (layover) day.
Vertigo 1 and Nice Butt and Grace C are heading out tomorrow morning at 7:00 a.m.
Long day on the move and missing one hour bridges
Wow what a trip. So. much to see. The waterfront properties are to die for. There are so many beautiful places one after another. The ones on the ocean are huge. We made it threw several swing bridges but the last one of the day was just before the anchorage and we had to wait an hour as it only opened on the hour. Our anchorage was just inside the bridge but there was nothing you can do but wait. Bye the time we got in it was getting close to dark. The anchorage was getting full and we moved our boat over to where it was not so busy across the channel beside Nice Butt and Southern Cross. Dennis and Karen invited us out for pizza and we were joined by Wayne, Maxine and Niki. Karen and Dennis gave us a ride in their dinghy with their navigation lights, as it was already dark. We had word that Brenda and Walter are at Southport and that is the plan for tomorrow to head there to meet up with them. We are all looking forward to the reunion.
Swansboro you will always be in my memory banks
Saturday November 8, 2008
On our way to Swansboro, North Carolina today we saw DOLPHINS three or four together along side the boat. There are inlets along the ICW from the ocean and they come in through them. The wind was howling all day and we had all planned to stay at this anchorage. When we got there we had to set the anchor about three times which is so annoying. Karen (Whippoorwill) radioed over to have some girl time in the town. Because of the wind and the current no one was to anxious to get the dinghy out. We had our motor already on the dinghy so as Diane said Dick would be the "Prince of the Anchorage" if he took the three of us to the town dock to get some fudge. I quickly threw the walkie talkie in my pocket and headed out. The wind was high but we only had a short distance to go. When we got to the village they were setting up for the evening. The town was planning to be open until 9:00 p.m. and light up the town with Christmas festivities. They were having free food and kept enticing us with such delicacies as cream puffs, cappuccinos and popcorn etc. When I called Dick to tell him he said we have to get back before dark as our dinghy did not have navigation lights. We piled into the dinghy to head back and as we were heading to drop Karen off on Whippoorwill Diane noticed that Dennis's dinghy had come loose and was floating down the river under the bridge that we were anchored beside. We headed out to rescue the dinghy but the current and wind was so strong for our (a bit defective outboard 4 horse) and with all the weight of the load we had it was all we could do to catch it before it when under the bridge. Dick grabbed it and hung on but it was over his head and we went slamming into the bridge. We were all in a panic and I was doing most of the yelling for the other woman. :) No one would jump in the boat and use their motor to start it. Diane managed to get a rope on it and we headed out to drop off Karin. By the time it was over and everyone was back on board it occured to me that there were three mothers on board and this is way to much responsibility to handle. Not to mention we were sitting on the edge of a lovely evening in town and not able to partake. Yours truly went to bed exhausted and defeated. But Swansboro your hospitality will always be one of the memories I will treasure about this "Stupid Trip" When I asked my husband why we did not have naviagation lights for our dinghy he said the last time we were at a Walmart the dollars was only 73 cents.
On our way to Swansboro, North Carolina today we saw DOLPHINS three or four together along side the boat. There are inlets along the ICW from the ocean and they come in through them. The wind was howling all day and we had all planned to stay at this anchorage. When we got there we had to set the anchor about three times which is so annoying. Karen (Whippoorwill) radioed over to have some girl time in the town. Because of the wind and the current no one was to anxious to get the dinghy out. We had our motor already on the dinghy so as Diane said Dick would be the "Prince of the Anchorage" if he took the three of us to the town dock to get some fudge. I quickly threw the walkie talkie in my pocket and headed out. The wind was high but we only had a short distance to go. When we got to the village they were setting up for the evening. The town was planning to be open until 9:00 p.m. and light up the town with Christmas festivities. They were having free food and kept enticing us with such delicacies as cream puffs, cappuccinos and popcorn etc. When I called Dick to tell him he said we have to get back before dark as our dinghy did not have navigation lights. We piled into the dinghy to head back and as we were heading to drop Karen off on Whippoorwill Diane noticed that Dennis's dinghy had come loose and was floating down the river under the bridge that we were anchored beside. We headed out to rescue the dinghy but the current and wind was so strong for our (a bit defective outboard 4 horse) and with all the weight of the load we had it was all we could do to catch it before it when under the bridge. Dick grabbed it and hung on but it was over his head and we went slamming into the bridge. We were all in a panic and I was doing most of the yelling for the other woman. :) No one would jump in the boat and use their motor to start it. Diane managed to get a rope on it and we headed out to drop off Karin. By the time it was over and everyone was back on board it occured to me that there were three mothers on board and this is way to much responsibility to handle. Not to mention we were sitting on the edge of a lovely evening in town and not able to partake. Yours truly went to bed exhausted and defeated. But Swansboro your hospitality will always be one of the memories I will treasure about this "Stupid Trip" When I asked my husband why we did not have naviagation lights for our dinghy he said the last time we were at a Walmart the dollars was only 73 cents.
Friday, November 7, 2008
One of my Best photos so far
The Best Laid Plans of Mice and Men
Wednesday November 5, 2008
Layover day due to high winds. Not planned but this is the way things go. Headed into town to get a hair cut and go to the library to check my e-mail. Tony and Diane ran into some guys fish line and kindly showed up to replace it. The guy was so surprised he promised to bring them some crab to eat that evening. They invited us to meet them down at the River Forest Yacht Club around 2:30 pm. When we got there there was no one there. Wayne and Max showed up a few minutes later on the (go to the grocery store golf cart. Apparently the guy with the crab did no show up so he headed back to the
Anchorage. Private thought – does anything ever happen that we think or say will on this trip?
Thursday November 6, 2008
Layover day due to high winds. (ditto). This is really getting on my nerves. Rocky night on the anchor and not much sleep. We decided to check out the interior of the boat. Dick wanted to take apart the V berth to see it the cupboard under our bed had gotten water in it. The cupboard was dry as toast but the mattress cushions underneath were wet from condensation when the temperature were so cold. I took off the cushion and headed into the village to bleach the mold out of the cushions. When we got to the coffee shop beside the laundromat we meet Tony and Diane and we were telling the girl that worked there that we missed the crab and she offered to get us some and said they would deliver it to the yacht club so we could have a meal. True to their word they arrive on time and cooked up a huge feast of crab. They taught us how to crack them open and get the meat out. The only part I didn't like is they put them in the boiling water alive. It was lots of fun and I finally feel like we have arrived on the jouney.
Heading out tomorrow (weather permitting)!!!!!
Friday November 7, 2008
Grand day weather wise. Got up at 6:00 am and the fleet had taken off by 6:30 pm. Dick and I and our manual anchor always take longer and we seemed to be sandwiched between 2 feet of water so I wanted to be extra careful. We managed to stay in the deep water but when I got to the channel we hit ground. It is soft mud so no big deal. Our journey to day took us down the Pungo River to Pamlico River, across Goose Creek to Bay River to Neuse River where we stopped at Oriental for the night. The rest of the fleet decided to take a dock for the night at Whittaker Creek Yacht Harbour. Our budget allows for docking only in very bad weather so we moved on to Oriental N.C. to anchor for the night. When we got there they had build a marina and a lot of the anchorage basin was gone. There was a 43 foot bridge which stopped us from going any farther up the channel so we tried to anchor between a couple of larger boats. After two attempt we called our friend Tony and asked if they had a spot at the marina.
They advised us to move back to Whittaker Creek and meet them at the fuel dock. When we got there the dock master had agreed that we could tie up at the fuel dock for free and if the wind came up and was pushing us into the dock we could anchor beside the dock. How kind is that? He felt he had made enough money off all the other Port Stanley boats all ready. Dennis and Karen were here so we were happy to see them again. We filled up with Diesel and paid for a shower. Our free dock age includes wifi. May many blessings be poured out on Whittaker Creek Yacht Harbour.
Layover day due to high winds. Not planned but this is the way things go. Headed into town to get a hair cut and go to the library to check my e-mail. Tony and Diane ran into some guys fish line and kindly showed up to replace it. The guy was so surprised he promised to bring them some crab to eat that evening. They invited us to meet them down at the River Forest Yacht Club around 2:30 pm. When we got there there was no one there. Wayne and Max showed up a few minutes later on the (go to the grocery store golf cart. Apparently the guy with the crab did no show up so he headed back to the
Anchorage. Private thought – does anything ever happen that we think or say will on this trip?
Thursday November 6, 2008
Layover day due to high winds. (ditto). This is really getting on my nerves. Rocky night on the anchor and not much sleep. We decided to check out the interior of the boat. Dick wanted to take apart the V berth to see it the cupboard under our bed had gotten water in it. The cupboard was dry as toast but the mattress cushions underneath were wet from condensation when the temperature were so cold. I took off the cushion and headed into the village to bleach the mold out of the cushions. When we got to the coffee shop beside the laundromat we meet Tony and Diane and we were telling the girl that worked there that we missed the crab and she offered to get us some and said they would deliver it to the yacht club so we could have a meal. True to their word they arrive on time and cooked up a huge feast of crab. They taught us how to crack them open and get the meat out. The only part I didn't like is they put them in the boiling water alive. It was lots of fun and I finally feel like we have arrived on the jouney.
Heading out tomorrow (weather permitting)!!!!!
Friday November 7, 2008
Grand day weather wise. Got up at 6:00 am and the fleet had taken off by 6:30 pm. Dick and I and our manual anchor always take longer and we seemed to be sandwiched between 2 feet of water so I wanted to be extra careful. We managed to stay in the deep water but when I got to the channel we hit ground. It is soft mud so no big deal. Our journey to day took us down the Pungo River to Pamlico River, across Goose Creek to Bay River to Neuse River where we stopped at Oriental for the night. The rest of the fleet decided to take a dock for the night at Whittaker Creek Yacht Harbour. Our budget allows for docking only in very bad weather so we moved on to Oriental N.C. to anchor for the night. When we got there they had build a marina and a lot of the anchorage basin was gone. There was a 43 foot bridge which stopped us from going any farther up the channel so we tried to anchor between a couple of larger boats. After two attempt we called our friend Tony and asked if they had a spot at the marina.
They advised us to move back to Whittaker Creek and meet them at the fuel dock. When we got there the dock master had agreed that we could tie up at the fuel dock for free and if the wind came up and was pushing us into the dock we could anchor beside the dock. How kind is that? He felt he had made enough money off all the other Port Stanley boats all ready. Dennis and Karen were here so we were happy to see them again. We filled up with Diesel and paid for a shower. Our free dock age includes wifi. May many blessings be poured out on Whittaker Creek Yacht Harbour.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Heading out on the ICW
Saturday November 1, 2008
So much to see leaving Hampton, Virginia and heading to the ICW to start the journey to the south.
This one just has to be a pictorial. I was shooting pictures all day like Naval yards, cool buildings, and freighter container packers, landscapes and architecture. The ICW starts with a lock at Great Bridge that only takes you down the differential of the tide between Elizabeth River and Albemarle Sound.
We anchored for the night in a Swamp at Buoy 32 as the other places were reserved and there was no room for three Canuck boats. It was calm and peaceful at the anchorage. We were happy to get a call from Peter (our Nova Scotian friend) who had news for us that Albert was home in Nova Scotia and recovering quite quickly. We got his number in Canada and called and he said he feels great he just cannot do anything. They winterized the boat in Solomon's and may return there after Christmas to bring it back. It was great to hear his voice and Dick was the one talking to him. :)
add photos
Sunday November 2, 2008
We were planning for an early morning getaway but mother nature had another idea. As lovely a day as we had had on Saturday the night went down to almost freezing again and so we awoke to a thick fog which burned off fairly quickly. The area of the ICW is more remote and we saw a lot of trees and birds. Dick and I saw a bald eagle but I regret the shot was facing the sun and impossible to capture.
We stopped at Coinjock, North Carolina at the Midway Marina and Motel to get diesel and a pump out.
It was another sunny but cooler day and we decided to keep going and try to get over the Albemarle Sound and threw a bridge. If time ran out we would stop at an Anchorages and go threw in the morning. Guess where we are tonight. We sent the night at an Anchorages just north of the bridge. It was a little more open to elements so we did not get much sleep due to the rocking of the boat. We tried to call home but our phone had no networks available. As if not having the internet is not bad enough now we have not phone. :(
Monday November 3, 2008
Historical Day in Canada but Nana and Poppa will miss Miss Elyssa's First Birthday. She is one years old and I cannot believe where that year has gone. We were anchored at Little Alligator Creek last night and headed to Belhaven, North Carolina. It was along day on the ICW with power boats going by and leaving us in their wake. The country side is mostly forests and swampland. When we passed over the Pungo River we got to put up our head sail for some of the time. When we were arriving at the anchorages at Belhaven Nice Butt hailed Vertigo 1 on the radio and it was grand to hear they were in the same place. We took our dinghys ashore and meet in the middle. Nicki and Max invited us back to the boat and when we got to Nice Butt Wayne was having a conversation with our Mentors Heather and Murray Rand. How cool is that. The Rands have been doing this for more than 10 years and have been a wealth of information to us.
Tuesday November 4, 2008
The historical election day in America!
Dinghyed into town to do our laundry and Dick found a library to do emails. When we got back to the boat we meet some people who said there was Rotary Club lunch for $7.00 per person. We decided to go since it was on the way to the grocery store. When we were at the lunch we meet a wonderful couple who have been sailing for 8 years and their home port is in Scotland. A gentleman by the name of Cecil Smith a town developer and historian offered to show us around and we spent the afternoon learning about the area. He drove us out to his grade school which is now a museum and we had a look around. Of all the gifts we have discovered on the trip nothing is more heart warming then spending an afternoon with such a gracious gentleman.
So much to see leaving Hampton, Virginia and heading to the ICW to start the journey to the south.
This one just has to be a pictorial. I was shooting pictures all day like Naval yards, cool buildings, and freighter container packers, landscapes and architecture. The ICW starts with a lock at Great Bridge that only takes you down the differential of the tide between Elizabeth River and Albemarle Sound.
We anchored for the night in a Swamp at Buoy 32 as the other places were reserved and there was no room for three Canuck boats. It was calm and peaceful at the anchorage. We were happy to get a call from Peter (our Nova Scotian friend) who had news for us that Albert was home in Nova Scotia and recovering quite quickly. We got his number in Canada and called and he said he feels great he just cannot do anything. They winterized the boat in Solomon's and may return there after Christmas to bring it back. It was great to hear his voice and Dick was the one talking to him. :)
add photos
Sunday November 2, 2008
We were planning for an early morning getaway but mother nature had another idea. As lovely a day as we had had on Saturday the night went down to almost freezing again and so we awoke to a thick fog which burned off fairly quickly. The area of the ICW is more remote and we saw a lot of trees and birds. Dick and I saw a bald eagle but I regret the shot was facing the sun and impossible to capture.
We stopped at Coinjock, North Carolina at the Midway Marina and Motel to get diesel and a pump out.
It was another sunny but cooler day and we decided to keep going and try to get over the Albemarle Sound and threw a bridge. If time ran out we would stop at an Anchorages and go threw in the morning. Guess where we are tonight. We sent the night at an Anchorages just north of the bridge. It was a little more open to elements so we did not get much sleep due to the rocking of the boat. We tried to call home but our phone had no networks available. As if not having the internet is not bad enough now we have not phone. :(
Monday November 3, 2008
Historical Day in Canada but Nana and Poppa will miss Miss Elyssa's First Birthday. She is one years old and I cannot believe where that year has gone. We were anchored at Little Alligator Creek last night and headed to Belhaven, North Carolina. It was along day on the ICW with power boats going by and leaving us in their wake. The country side is mostly forests and swampland. When we passed over the Pungo River we got to put up our head sail for some of the time. When we were arriving at the anchorages at Belhaven Nice Butt hailed Vertigo 1 on the radio and it was grand to hear they were in the same place. We took our dinghys ashore and meet in the middle. Nicki and Max invited us back to the boat and when we got to Nice Butt Wayne was having a conversation with our Mentors Heather and Murray Rand. How cool is that. The Rands have been doing this for more than 10 years and have been a wealth of information to us.
Tuesday November 4, 2008
The historical election day in America!
Dinghyed into town to do our laundry and Dick found a library to do emails. When we got back to the boat we meet some people who said there was Rotary Club lunch for $7.00 per person. We decided to go since it was on the way to the grocery store. When we were at the lunch we meet a wonderful couple who have been sailing for 8 years and their home port is in Scotland. A gentleman by the name of Cecil Smith a town developer and historian offered to show us around and we spent the afternoon learning about the area. He drove us out to his grade school which is now a museum and we had a look around. Of all the gifts we have discovered on the trip nothing is more heart warming then spending an afternoon with such a gracious gentleman.
Friday, October 31, 2008
In Hampton
Sailed here with Abe and Karen and Tony and Diane. It was sunny but cold all day on the water. I had my winter coat three sweaters and flannel jeans on with a polar fleece scarf. When we arrived in Hampton and got anchored we noticed it was about 15 degrees warmer. Diane and Karen called to have Dick drop me off so we could tour the town before dark. We took a walking tour around and made it to a church graveyard, gathered some magnolia husks for Karen to take home and stopped by the Tourist Information Centre. It was good to get off the boat and have a good laugh with the girls. The 'fun' thing actually happened. We are rising early to head out to the ICW. When we were coming today Tony said he saw dolphins. We said good-bye to the wonderful Chesapeake Bay.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Cabin Fever
Wednesday October 29, 2008.
Karen and Abe and I walked to town today. We spent the whole day looking at shops and getting some groceries. It is about a two mile walk to town so we get picked up by kind boaters driving by that recognize us as boaters. We made dinner and curled up early to watch a movie in the v-berth as it is to cold to do anything else. Planning to head out tomorrow depending on the weather.
Thursday October 30, 2008.
We were not surprised when Abe and Karin called to cancel our journey today. The winds and waves were still high and the weather is very cold. We dinghy over to Abe and Karen's boat about 10:30 a.m. And when we were sitting in the cockpit we got a call from Diane and Tony on Vertigo that they were in the area and heading into Fisherman's Bay for the night. We tied them up and then Dick took the girls to the public dock in the dinghy to save about a one mile walk. We were scouting our bargains until about 3:00 pm when we ran into the guys coming back from the marine store. Abe and Dick went to get Grace C off the anchorage and we tied up at the YC for the night. After a time of planning our journey and sharing with other sailors we headed aboard to make dinner and catch up with the wifi.
Karen and Abe and I walked to town today. We spent the whole day looking at shops and getting some groceries. It is about a two mile walk to town so we get picked up by kind boaters driving by that recognize us as boaters. We made dinner and curled up early to watch a movie in the v-berth as it is to cold to do anything else. Planning to head out tomorrow depending on the weather.
Thursday October 30, 2008.
We were not surprised when Abe and Karin called to cancel our journey today. The winds and waves were still high and the weather is very cold. We dinghy over to Abe and Karen's boat about 10:30 a.m. And when we were sitting in the cockpit we got a call from Diane and Tony on Vertigo that they were in the area and heading into Fisherman's Bay for the night. We tied them up and then Dick took the girls to the public dock in the dinghy to save about a one mile walk. We were scouting our bargains until about 3:00 pm when we ran into the guys coming back from the marine store. Abe and Dick went to get Grace C off the anchorage and we tied up at the YC for the night. After a time of planning our journey and sharing with other sailors we headed aboard to make dinner and catch up with the wifi.
Saturday October 25, 2008
Living aboard a boat has a different sort of justice to it. Myrna had contacted the Dock Master and asked that we take any provisions (spoils) off their boat and turn off the electrical panel and things. For doing that the Dock Master gave us a free night of accomodation at the Holiday Inn dock. We had another layover day so spent sometime with Abe and Karin getting groceries. When we got back to the boat there was an invitation to go to a Missionary Conference. Since we were planning to leave with the other boats from Port in the morning we decided to take advantage of this opportunity. Debra and her husband were the boaters who had invited us. Debra is an artist that lives aboard her boat and paints in the forpeak. There were two missionaries that spoke but the one that we enjoyed the most was the gentleman from Milan, Italy. We look forward to seeing more of Debra Howard's art along the ICW.
Sunday October 26, 2008
Woke up at 6:00 am and headed out with the Port Stanley fleet. We were so glad to have companions again. Joining our trip for the first time is some Pelicans. I guess we are finally getting south. We sailed a lot of the trip but one of the sail slides on the mast broke so we had a little trouble getting the sail down. Dick put the boomvang on and cranked her down and finally the slide snapped and let go so we could furl. We Anchored in Antipoison Creek, Virginia for the night just past the town dock as Skipper Bob had advised. It was a quiet relaxed anchorage and we enjoyed our time aboard Sinn Fein when we got to harbour. Kathy had gotten word that the Hampton area had a Caribbean cruise and there was no space available. We decided to move to Deltaville in the morning and wait out the weather that was coming.
Dick barbecued Turkey and we bedded down early with a movie from Kathy.
Monday October 27, 2008
Due to the quietness of the Anchorages we both slept in and so had to get ready quickly to leave by 9:00 a.m. As we got out of the harbour Captain mentioned we could sail this course and I was elated. Finally no motor to listen to. When I asked about taking the main sail cover off he said we are not going to need the main!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You mean just sail with the Genoa. We unfurled just the Genoa and sure enough we were doing 5-6 knots. With the following sea we were making up to 7 knots at times.
It is amazing when it is sunny how it doesn't feel like a stormy day at all. We headed into Deltaville, Virginia near Jackson Creek and fortunately our comrades warned us about entering the harbour threw a different set of red and green bouys than we were going threw. Bad weather is coming for the next two days and we moved back to the back of the basin for protection. Abe and Karin joined us and we rode out the night with no issues. Sinn Fein opted for a dock at a Marina. Dick finally got a minute to paint our anchor chain. To date I have been in Virgina for two days and have not touched your soil with my sole.
Tuesday October 28, 2008
It is so cold here. I am wrapped in three blankets and wearing a winter coat on board. That is with heat from Alcohol stove. We have to stay onboard all day due to wind guts of up to 45 knots. We have been in worse but it was when we were tied to three boats and a dock in the Erie Canal.
Learning what the boat is capable of is a good thing and we were both mentioning how the learning curve has increase from when we left. Still not sure why anyone would subject them self to this kind of discipline.
Living aboard a boat has a different sort of justice to it. Myrna had contacted the Dock Master and asked that we take any provisions (spoils) off their boat and turn off the electrical panel and things. For doing that the Dock Master gave us a free night of accomodation at the Holiday Inn dock. We had another layover day so spent sometime with Abe and Karin getting groceries. When we got back to the boat there was an invitation to go to a Missionary Conference. Since we were planning to leave with the other boats from Port in the morning we decided to take advantage of this opportunity. Debra and her husband were the boaters who had invited us. Debra is an artist that lives aboard her boat and paints in the forpeak. There were two missionaries that spoke but the one that we enjoyed the most was the gentleman from Milan, Italy. We look forward to seeing more of Debra Howard's art along the ICW.
Sunday October 26, 2008
Woke up at 6:00 am and headed out with the Port Stanley fleet. We were so glad to have companions again. Joining our trip for the first time is some Pelicans. I guess we are finally getting south. We sailed a lot of the trip but one of the sail slides on the mast broke so we had a little trouble getting the sail down. Dick put the boomvang on and cranked her down and finally the slide snapped and let go so we could furl. We Anchored in Antipoison Creek, Virginia for the night just past the town dock as Skipper Bob had advised. It was a quiet relaxed anchorage and we enjoyed our time aboard Sinn Fein when we got to harbour. Kathy had gotten word that the Hampton area had a Caribbean cruise and there was no space available. We decided to move to Deltaville in the morning and wait out the weather that was coming.
Dick barbecued Turkey and we bedded down early with a movie from Kathy.
Monday October 27, 2008
Due to the quietness of the Anchorages we both slept in and so had to get ready quickly to leave by 9:00 a.m. As we got out of the harbour Captain mentioned we could sail this course and I was elated. Finally no motor to listen to. When I asked about taking the main sail cover off he said we are not going to need the main!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You mean just sail with the Genoa. We unfurled just the Genoa and sure enough we were doing 5-6 knots. With the following sea we were making up to 7 knots at times.
It is amazing when it is sunny how it doesn't feel like a stormy day at all. We headed into Deltaville, Virginia near Jackson Creek and fortunately our comrades warned us about entering the harbour threw a different set of red and green bouys than we were going threw. Bad weather is coming for the next two days and we moved back to the back of the basin for protection. Abe and Karin joined us and we rode out the night with no issues. Sinn Fein opted for a dock at a Marina. Dick finally got a minute to paint our anchor chain. To date I have been in Virgina for two days and have not touched your soil with my sole.
Tuesday October 28, 2008
It is so cold here. I am wrapped in three blankets and wearing a winter coat on board. That is with heat from Alcohol stove. We have to stay onboard all day due to wind guts of up to 45 knots. We have been in worse but it was when we were tied to three boats and a dock in the Erie Canal.
Learning what the boat is capable of is a good thing and we were both mentioning how the learning curve has increase from when we left. Still not sure why anyone would subject them self to this kind of discipline.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Where but by the Grace of God
Took off to have a shower and do our laundry this morning and when I got back Dick had gotten a message from the Dock Attendant at the Holiday Inn that our friend Albert had had a heart attack last night and was in the hospital in Washington. We were all a bit stunned and instantly every minute thought of your life and circumstances is transformed into thankfulness that your alive and your mate is with you. Abe and Karin and Maria and Dick and I went to the Marine Museum for a distraction. It was an interesting place and we learned alot about this area. Today I miss everyone at home and wish I could give you a big hug. Keep Albert and his family in your prayers. When we got back there was word that he is in intensive care and his wife asked Dick to do some preparations to the boat. Kathy organized a morning distraction that took us on a boat tour of a Trawler. It was beautiful inside. The gentleman was having his 65th birthday so we went out to celebrate life with him and some other sailors.
Note to commenter's who ask questions. If you want me to answer than please email us at foster.mzp@gmail.com as I cannot answer the blog comments. Happy to see Marg is along for the journey. :)
Note to commenter's who ask questions. If you want me to answer than please email us at foster.mzp@gmail.com as I cannot answer the blog comments. Happy to see Marg is along for the journey. :)
Picassa Three updates to Blog
Karin I did it. We have unlimited access here at the Solomon's so I got my Picassa 3 update so this is my first Calogue. These shot were taken on the way to Annapolis and coming to the Solomon Islands. The quilt block is my first attempt at sewing and when we got to the Chesapeake the fall colours were out and the main leaves were White Oak.The Navy is everywhere in this area.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Thomas Point Lighthouse
This is the most photographed lighthouse in Maryland and we finally got to see it today on our way to Solomon's Island. It was a long day under sail with light wind and following sea. The good news is that when we got in to the harbour I radioed Tip Toe to tell them we were here and Kathy from Sinn Fein came on the radio. When we got to the dock Abe and Karin (Whipporwill)and Larry, Kathy and Maria were here and we were so happy to see everyone. It has been along time since we have seen anyone we know longer that two months. We went up to the Happy Hour at the Holiday Inn Lounge. We are staying at the Holiday Inn Marina for the night and look forward to seeing our club members tomorrow.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
I'm so sorry I forgot the Camera
October 21, 22, 2008
Despite the nippy weather we are enjoying our sojourn here at Annapolis, Maryland (the Capital). Between getting a shower, buying groceries and scouting out boat parts and Ships bells at Good Will we have managed to check out the welcome centre and walk down some lovely older streets with buildings that were erected in the 1700's. We meet a lovely lady at the tourist information that told us that Annapolis is south of the Mason Dixon Line and was actually a harbour where they brought in Slaves. I was commenting on a beautiful street that every building mostly owned by the Catholic Church was built with Red brick and the streets were all red brick and she said that that is because Annapolis had been a haven for Roman Catholics when they were shunned by the Puritans. I asked her if we could ride on the Trolleys we saw and she said they were for the government workers to get to work as they have to park at the Naval Academy as there is no room for cars downtown as they were built before the car was invented. Just grand. I do want to come back and bring Karin and Josh maybe sometime when we get back home. Oh ya the Camera thing is when we get up and head out we are usually doing something like life maintenance and then it can switch in to something touristy so I guess I am going to have to strap on the digital and just be ready for whatever. So sorry I missed today.
Tomorrow we are heading out again for the Solomon Island.
Despite the nippy weather we are enjoying our sojourn here at Annapolis, Maryland (the Capital). Between getting a shower, buying groceries and scouting out boat parts and Ships bells at Good Will we have managed to check out the welcome centre and walk down some lovely older streets with buildings that were erected in the 1700's. We meet a lovely lady at the tourist information that told us that Annapolis is south of the Mason Dixon Line and was actually a harbour where they brought in Slaves. I was commenting on a beautiful street that every building mostly owned by the Catholic Church was built with Red brick and the streets were all red brick and she said that that is because Annapolis had been a haven for Roman Catholics when they were shunned by the Puritans. I asked her if we could ride on the Trolleys we saw and she said they were for the government workers to get to work as they have to park at the Naval Academy as there is no room for cars downtown as they were built before the car was invented. Just grand. I do want to come back and bring Karin and Josh maybe sometime when we get back home. Oh ya the Camera thing is when we get up and head out we are usually doing something like life maintenance and then it can switch in to something touristy so I guess I am going to have to strap on the digital and just be ready for whatever. So sorry I missed today.
Tomorrow we are heading out again for the Solomon Island.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Annapolis Sailing Capital
Good place to need engine parts as there are about a 20 marine stores around that you can dinghy to or walk to. Dick had gone to three by the time I had got my second quilt block out to assemble this morning. Luckily I had sent him out with his walkie talkie and I was able to get blow by blow accounts of his hunting. We headed up to the State Circle to see some shops in the afternoon. The parts are back on board and at the time typing this the engine is purring away. Does the new alternator work stay tuned. We ran into some sailors we had meet in Ashtabula several years ago and they are heading out tomorrow. They kindly offered us their van which was the least they said they could do as they had offered it to all the other gang from Port.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
We made it to Annapolis post Boat Show
Sunday October 19, 2008
Last night has got to have been the coldest night we had since moving aboard. When we got up and were eating breakfast Captain said we are moving south today. We set the dinghy and disengaged the mooring ball. After saying Bon Voyage to Myrna and Albert we headed out the Sassafras River and headed out to the Bay. It was sunny and the wind was strong coming out of the North. The weatherman even said the high pressure was a front from Canada. All the Maryland growers had been subjected to their first frost of the season. We had a following sea and were able to sail with the Genoa almost all the way. The wind was dead and I mean dead downwind which meant we kept gibing and gibing and gibing. Some of the attractions we passed by were a thousand crab pots, Aberdeen Proving Ground, a huge bridge and a Naval Anchorages that had a sailing regatta going on while we motored by with the wind dead down wind. The anchorages we headed for is called Back Creek Basin, There are thousands of Docks in the Anchorages and the boats that want to Anchor just drop a hook in the middle of the Basin. Never really experienced anything like this. When we got here and warmed up yesterdays chili the Refrigerator was not staying cool and Dick looked at the Motor and the arm of the Alternator had broken so we need to get parts here and get the new one installed. Lots to do and lots to see tomorrow.
Last night has got to have been the coldest night we had since moving aboard. When we got up and were eating breakfast Captain said we are moving south today. We set the dinghy and disengaged the mooring ball. After saying Bon Voyage to Myrna and Albert we headed out the Sassafras River and headed out to the Bay. It was sunny and the wind was strong coming out of the North. The weatherman even said the high pressure was a front from Canada. All the Maryland growers had been subjected to their first frost of the season. We had a following sea and were able to sail with the Genoa almost all the way. The wind was dead and I mean dead downwind which meant we kept gibing and gibing and gibing. Some of the attractions we passed by were a thousand crab pots, Aberdeen Proving Ground, a huge bridge and a Naval Anchorages that had a sailing regatta going on while we motored by with the wind dead down wind. The anchorages we headed for is called Back Creek Basin, There are thousands of Docks in the Anchorages and the boats that want to Anchor just drop a hook in the middle of the Basin. Never really experienced anything like this. When we got here and warmed up yesterdays chili the Refrigerator was not staying cool and Dick looked at the Motor and the arm of the Alternator had broken so we need to get parts here and get the new one installed. Lots to do and lots to see tomorrow.
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Living Aboard Grace C
Life Aboard Grace C on a Mooring Ball at a Marina in the Chesapeake
The days are flying by with a myriad of activities; showering, laundry and biking two miles for groceries then with our basic needs of life meet we hike out to tour the area. The sun of late has been streaming threw our forward hatch at 8:00 am and that gets us up and put sing around the cabin for a few hours. Dick is usually reviewing the charts but that was an issue of late as we had run out of the paper charts and had to get to a marine store that had the ones we need. That actually happened yesterday so we can move forward now. Checking out the yard and stores here we ran into a nice couple from Brockville, ON who have been in Trinidad for two years doing engineering on Building Restorations. They hauled their boat here and have left it for two years. They are back now and are planning to get it ready and head down south like us. Yesterday when we were chart hunting we ran into the Bridge Operator and he was from Georgetown Maryland and was just getting off shift. He is 81 and works five days a week but he said not to worry he says they have Satellite TV and Internet Apparently Hurricane Isabelle had ravaged this area with flooding and that is why there is so much construction around here.
Last night we took our dinghy to a Pizzeria with the gang form Nova Scotia and had everyone back to Grace C after. The nights cool down and this morning we had frost on the hatch so it is time to head south again. Our companions from the club are in Annapolis still but Dick does not want to head there until Sunday as the Power Boat show is still on. There will be more room when we get there. Diane on Vertigo tells us she meet a Potter there who works for a Program like Hutton House and apparently they want to talk to Dick about his glazes. Small world.
To all our Google map fans sorry there has been no pin pushing of late. :)
The days are flying by with a myriad of activities; showering, laundry and biking two miles for groceries then with our basic needs of life meet we hike out to tour the area. The sun of late has been streaming threw our forward hatch at 8:00 am and that gets us up and put sing around the cabin for a few hours. Dick is usually reviewing the charts but that was an issue of late as we had run out of the paper charts and had to get to a marine store that had the ones we need. That actually happened yesterday so we can move forward now. Checking out the yard and stores here we ran into a nice couple from Brockville, ON who have been in Trinidad for two years doing engineering on Building Restorations. They hauled their boat here and have left it for two years. They are back now and are planning to get it ready and head down south like us. Yesterday when we were chart hunting we ran into the Bridge Operator and he was from Georgetown Maryland and was just getting off shift. He is 81 and works five days a week but he said not to worry he says they have Satellite TV and Internet Apparently Hurricane Isabelle had ravaged this area with flooding and that is why there is so much construction around here.
Last night we took our dinghy to a Pizzeria with the gang form Nova Scotia and had everyone back to Grace C after. The nights cool down and this morning we had frost on the hatch so it is time to head south again. Our companions from the club are in Annapolis still but Dick does not want to head there until Sunday as the Power Boat show is still on. There will be more room when we get there. Diane on Vertigo tells us she meet a Potter there who works for a Program like Hutton House and apparently they want to talk to Dick about his glazes. Small world.
To all our Google map fans sorry there has been no pin pushing of late. :)
Living Aboard Grace C
Life Aboard Grace C on a Mooring Ball at a Marina in the Chesapeake
The days are flying by with a myriad of activities; showering, laundry and biking two miles for groceries then with our basic needs of life meet we hike out to tour the area. The sun of late has been streaming threw our forward hatch at 8:00 am and that gets us up and put sing around the cabin for a few hours. Dick is usually reviewing the charts but that was an issue of late as we had run out of the paper charts and had to get to a marine store that had the ones we need. That actually happened yesterday so we can move forward now. Checking out the yard and stores here we ran into a nice couple from Brockville, ON who have been in Trinidad for two years doing engineering on Building Restorations. They hauled their boat here and have left it for two years. They are back now and are planning to get it ready and head down south like us. Yesterday when we were chart hunting we ran into the Bridge Operator and he was from Georgetown Maryland and was just getting off shift. He is 81 and works five days a week but he said not to worry he says they have Satellite TV and Internet Apparently Hurricane Isabelle had ravaged this area with flooding and that is why there is so much construction around here.
Last night we took our dinghy to a Pizzeria with the gang form Nova Scotia and had everyone back to Grace C after. The nights cool down and this morning we had frost on the hatch so it is time to head south again. Our companions from the club are in Annapolis still but Dick does not want to head there until Sunday as the Power Boat show is still on. There will be more room when we get there. Diane on Vertigo tells us she meet a Potter there who works for a Program like Hutton House and apparently they want to talk to Dick about his glazes. Small world.
To all our Google map fans sorry there has been no pin pushing of late. :)
The days are flying by with a myriad of activities; showering, laundry and biking two miles for groceries then with our basic needs of life meet we hike out to tour the area. The sun of late has been streaming threw our forward hatch at 8:00 am and that gets us up and put sing around the cabin for a few hours. Dick is usually reviewing the charts but that was an issue of late as we had run out of the paper charts and had to get to a marine store that had the ones we need. That actually happened yesterday so we can move forward now. Checking out the yard and stores here we ran into a nice couple from Brockville, ON who have been in Trinidad for two years doing engineering on Building Restorations. They hauled their boat here and have left it for two years. They are back now and are planning to get it ready and head down south like us. Yesterday when we were chart hunting we ran into the Bridge Operator and he was from Georgetown Maryland and was just getting off shift. He is 81 and works five days a week but he said not to worry he says they have Satellite TV and Internet Apparently Hurricane Isabelle had ravaged this area with flooding and that is why there is so much construction around here.
Last night we took our dinghy to a Pizzeria with the gang form Nova Scotia and had everyone back to Grace C after. The nights cool down and this morning we had frost on the hatch so it is time to head south again. Our companions from the club are in Annapolis still but Dick does not want to head there until Sunday as the Power Boat show is still on. There will be more room when we get there. Diane on Vertigo tells us she meet a Potter there who works for a Program like Hutton House and apparently they want to talk to Dick about his glazes. Small world.
To all our Google map fans sorry there has been no pin pushing of late. :)
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Sailing Heaven
Today was go grand. The Chesapeke is gorgeous, the fall colours are out for the first time but we had an unseasonably warm day of 80 degrees so there was no wind but the motor trip threw the bay was breathtaking. What peace and pastoral tranquility. I am so thankful we made it here. Not to mention we have two other companions who joined us on a leg to the Sassafrass River.
There are mooring balls at the Georgetown Basin Marina which are 80 cents a foot and include all the necessary amenities such as shower and laundry and my favourite wifi. We meet some Canadians from Quebec and had a chat with them about their boat they had built out of steel.
Dick decided we could motor to the fuel dock with the oars and leave the motor on the boat. That worked well until I was left alone and had to row myself back to the dock. You could hear Albert's laugh all over the anchorage. Stay tuned guys all the pain is worth this experience.
There are mooring balls at the Georgetown Basin Marina which are 80 cents a foot and include all the necessary amenities such as shower and laundry and my favourite wifi. We meet some Canadians from Quebec and had a chat with them about their boat they had built out of steel.
Dick decided we could motor to the fuel dock with the oars and leave the motor on the boat. That worked well until I was left alone and had to row myself back to the dock. You could hear Albert's laugh all over the anchorage. Stay tuned guys all the pain is worth this experience.
Parting is Such Sweet Sorrow
Monday October 13, 2008
Parting is such sweet sorrow,
No words were ever truer. Seeing the kids again and sharing time with Elyssa had been a wonderful interlude. They had a long journey ahead of them so ate breakfast with us and headed out. Dick and I had to be out of the Marina by 11:00 a.m. And since low tide was around then it seemed a great opportunity to pass under the 55 foot bridges into the Cape May Canal to the Delaware Bay.
When we got to the bridge the tide had brought us down to 58 feet clearance so that was a go. When we had been at Cape May we had meet two families from Nova Scotia and Albert and Merna had decided
to join us for the journey up the Delaware Bay. We had a great wind and sunny weather and motor sailed up the Bay. The current was assisting us part way and when it came time to decide where to anchor we decided to keep going all the way up threw the C D canal that joined the Delaware Bay to the Chesapeake. The canal was light and all the bridges were beautiful. We passed by the opening to the Canal originally but Captain realized in time and we headed in. The cruising books did not give much information for anchorages in Delaware Bay due to currents but when we got to Chesapeake City
we found a beautiful basin. Even though it was crowded we laid our claim to a spot and kept a vigilance all night to see that we did not hit anyone. We were exhausted and even if we got a little sleep it would be better than none.
Tuesday October 14, 2008
Woke up and made breakfast and took a tally of where we were. Few minor engine maintenance things like draining the 25 hour old fluid from the brand new transmission. We had made a long passage the day before and our water heater was overheating and releasing water into the bilged. Dick had brought a new Alternator with him and decided it was time to install. The folks we had left Cape May with had opted to stay in the Cohansey River for the night and arrive in the morning. Albert gave Dick a lift in his dinghy to go and look for parts to install the Alternator, and pick up Swifter Sweet cigars for Albert.
Chesapeake City is an artsy village with no necessities of life so Dick had to walk about two miles for the bread and cigars and the motor part were not available. First Mate decided to stay on board and have an afternoon nap. When Albert and Dick came back in the dinghy we joined them on board Tip Toe and during the time I had been sleeping another couple Peter and Heather (good friends and companions of Albert) can come in and were rafted off. Our first cockpit party in the Chesapeake lasted until around 9:00 pm. We had toured the boats and learned lots if stories. When we returned to Grace C Dick had to put the old Alternator back in so we can have lights for the night.
Parting is such sweet sorrow,
No words were ever truer. Seeing the kids again and sharing time with Elyssa had been a wonderful interlude. They had a long journey ahead of them so ate breakfast with us and headed out. Dick and I had to be out of the Marina by 11:00 a.m. And since low tide was around then it seemed a great opportunity to pass under the 55 foot bridges into the Cape May Canal to the Delaware Bay.
When we got to the bridge the tide had brought us down to 58 feet clearance so that was a go. When we had been at Cape May we had meet two families from Nova Scotia and Albert and Merna had decided
to join us for the journey up the Delaware Bay. We had a great wind and sunny weather and motor sailed up the Bay. The current was assisting us part way and when it came time to decide where to anchor we decided to keep going all the way up threw the C D canal that joined the Delaware Bay to the Chesapeake. The canal was light and all the bridges were beautiful. We passed by the opening to the Canal originally but Captain realized in time and we headed in. The cruising books did not give much information for anchorages in Delaware Bay due to currents but when we got to Chesapeake City
we found a beautiful basin. Even though it was crowded we laid our claim to a spot and kept a vigilance all night to see that we did not hit anyone. We were exhausted and even if we got a little sleep it would be better than none.
Tuesday October 14, 2008
Woke up and made breakfast and took a tally of where we were. Few minor engine maintenance things like draining the 25 hour old fluid from the brand new transmission. We had made a long passage the day before and our water heater was overheating and releasing water into the bilged. Dick had brought a new Alternator with him and decided it was time to install. The folks we had left Cape May with had opted to stay in the Cohansey River for the night and arrive in the morning. Albert gave Dick a lift in his dinghy to go and look for parts to install the Alternator, and pick up Swifter Sweet cigars for Albert.
Chesapeake City is an artsy village with no necessities of life so Dick had to walk about two miles for the bread and cigars and the motor part were not available. First Mate decided to stay on board and have an afternoon nap. When Albert and Dick came back in the dinghy we joined them on board Tip Toe and during the time I had been sleeping another couple Peter and Heather (good friends and companions of Albert) can come in and were rafted off. Our first cockpit party in the Chesapeake lasted until around 9:00 pm. We had toured the boats and learned lots if stories. When we returned to Grace C Dick had to put the old Alternator back in so we can have lights for the night.
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