Thursday 2-11-10
Palm Coast, FL
Well, we are getting ready to head out again…..
Hopefully this year, no major problems like engines and transmissions. We have been wrapping up all of the boat projects, and have taken everything off of the boat right down to the silverware and the washcloths, to get everything washed and cleaned before we leave.
Jon and “gang” headed out this morning for a final sea trial, and I was surprised to see them returning approximately 10 minutes later. I went down to the boat to help with lines, and was told there had been an accident on board. Still unbelievable, boat our mechanic Al, was in the engine compartment while the other guys were all up on the bridge underway. Jon felt a thump, and immediately thought it was something wrong with the engine. Jon had Jim go down to see what was going on, and Jim discovered Al had he had slipped and his pant leg got caught in the shaft. His pant leg, long johns, sock, and shoe shredded and ripped off of his body so he was able to get out. Luckily there were no fractures, but badly bruised and burned. This was a great and humbling reminder to all of us that life is an adventure, and that we thank God for our guardian angels that keep watch over us all.
We are still hopeful to get everything wrapped up, and head south on Monday, 2/15.
Palm Coast, FL
Well, we are getting ready to head out again…..
Hopefully this year, no major problems like engines and transmissions. We have been wrapping up all of the boat projects, and have taken everything off of the boat right down to the silverware and the washcloths, to get everything washed and cleaned before we leave.
Jon and “gang” headed out this morning for a final sea trial, and I was surprised to see them returning approximately 10 minutes later. I went down to the boat to help with lines, and was told there had been an accident on board. Still unbelievable, boat our mechanic Al, was in the engine compartment while the other guys were all up on the bridge underway. Jon felt a thump, and immediately thought it was something wrong with the engine. Jon had Jim go down to see what was going on, and Jim discovered Al had he had slipped and his pant leg got caught in the shaft. His pant leg, long johns, sock, and shoe shredded and ripped off of his body so he was able to get out. Luckily there were no fractures, but badly bruised and burned. This was a great and humbling reminder to all of us that life is an adventure, and that we thank God for our guardian angels that keep watch over us all.
We are still hopeful to get everything wrapped up, and head south on Monday, 2/15.
Jim, Jon, Al, Ken and Chris heading off on trial
And they are off..
The remains of Al's shredded pants
For those of you who have inquired about Crew - Crew is no longer the puppy he was last year. Even though I was hopeful he would weigh about 30 pounds, he now weighs 52 pounds !
We just shaved him down, so he looks like a bit of a lion now ! It will be interesting to see how Crew handles the boat this year as there are about 40 pounds more of him this year !!
We just shaved him down, so he looks like a bit of a lion now ! It will be interesting to see how Crew handles the boat this year as there are about 40 pounds more of him this year !!
Crew on last year's trip - tiny little bundle !
Crew at one year with his fur coat on
Tuesday 2-16-10
Still Palm Coast, FL
We are still here……
Our bow thruster is broken again. We were able to find boat electrician to come over Sunday, and he told us the motor was gone. As yesterday was a holiday, he was able to track a new motor down today that we hope will arrive in the next day or two. We are now officially behind our unofficial schedule !
The good news is this has given us a couple of extra days and time to have the outside of Sundance painting finished up. The bad news is of all days, Crew decided to hop on the boat, got his paws in the wet paint, and proceeded to decorate our newly restored teak deck with white awlgrip paint paw prints.
With our delay, we are now not sure about crossing via Okeechobee to the west coast. We were planning to visit for a couple of days with our first Harwich Mariner, RJ Swindle, who will be at spring training with Tampa Rays in Port Charlotte. Luckily, he was able to stop today to see us on his way to spring training.
It is still cold here in Palm Coast, down in the low 30’s tonight, that is cold boat living !
Still Palm Coast, FL
We are still here……
Our bow thruster is broken again. We were able to find boat electrician to come over Sunday, and he told us the motor was gone. As yesterday was a holiday, he was able to track a new motor down today that we hope will arrive in the next day or two. We are now officially behind our unofficial schedule !
The good news is this has given us a couple of extra days and time to have the outside of Sundance painting finished up. The bad news is of all days, Crew decided to hop on the boat, got his paws in the wet paint, and proceeded to decorate our newly restored teak deck with white awlgrip paint paw prints.
With our delay, we are now not sure about crossing via Okeechobee to the west coast. We were planning to visit for a couple of days with our first Harwich Mariner, RJ Swindle, who will be at spring training with Tampa Rays in Port Charlotte. Luckily, he was able to stop today to see us on his way to spring training.
It is still cold here in Palm Coast, down in the low 30’s tonight, that is cold boat living !
RJ and Jon
Chris just finished painting the boat when
When Crew decided to see if the paint was dry - the evidence on his paw
Crew thought getting the paint all over the deck on the boat was funny
Until we told him we may not bring him with us - he then attempted to look remorseful
Wednesday, 2- 17-10
Yes – Palm Coast
The motor arrived today. Jon informed me the mechanic commented to him, “Mr Blake, I have something to show you…….” Now, this is never good. As it turns out the rubber seal that goes between the bow thruster motor and the hull of the boat is gone, so water has been leaking into the motor. In theory it is an easy fix – just replace the seal. However, as usual, nothing in a boater’s life comes easy or inexpensively because to replace the seal we now have to have the boat hauled. It looks like the part will not arrive until Friday, so Friday Jon will bring the boat to Daytona and have it hauled and the seal replaced. We will have to keep the boat out of the water overnight so the seal will dry. Sat. PM Jon, Crew and I will go back to Daytona, spend the night on the boat and head out either Sunday or Monday. Just to add to the fun, we have also discovered that neither the heat or the air conditioning are working either.
Of course, everything is subject to change…..
I have decided that to truly enjoy this whole cruising/boating lifestyle, it requires:
A) A boat
B) An amazing sense of humor
C) An endless amount patience
D) And unlimited amount of cash
I have determined that all we have is:
A) A boat
Yes – Palm Coast
The motor arrived today. Jon informed me the mechanic commented to him, “Mr Blake, I have something to show you…….” Now, this is never good. As it turns out the rubber seal that goes between the bow thruster motor and the hull of the boat is gone, so water has been leaking into the motor. In theory it is an easy fix – just replace the seal. However, as usual, nothing in a boater’s life comes easy or inexpensively because to replace the seal we now have to have the boat hauled. It looks like the part will not arrive until Friday, so Friday Jon will bring the boat to Daytona and have it hauled and the seal replaced. We will have to keep the boat out of the water overnight so the seal will dry. Sat. PM Jon, Crew and I will go back to Daytona, spend the night on the boat and head out either Sunday or Monday. Just to add to the fun, we have also discovered that neither the heat or the air conditioning are working either.
Of course, everything is subject to change…..
I have decided that to truly enjoy this whole cruising/boating lifestyle, it requires:
A) A boat
B) An amazing sense of humor
C) An endless amount patience
D) And unlimited amount of cash
I have determined that all we have is:
A) A boat
Sundance hauled in Daytona
Sunday, 2-21-10
We are still in Palm Coast
Sundance in Daytona
God willing and the creek doesn’t rise, we will be leaving tomorrow !
The boat was hauled, and hopefully repaired, with assurances it will be in the water and ready to go at 8:30 AM.
We are very ready to go – the boat is provisioned, our bags packed, now all we need is lots of luck !!
We are still in Palm Coast
Sundance in Daytona
God willing and the creek doesn’t rise, we will be leaving tomorrow !
The boat was hauled, and hopefully repaired, with assurances it will be in the water and ready to go at 8:30 AM.
We are very ready to go – the boat is provisioned, our bags packed, now all we need is lots of luck !!
Finally - Sundance getting put back in to swim
Monday, 2-22-10
MM 878 Titusville Marina
We actually are on our way. We arrived at the marina in Daytona, they launched Sundance back in to the water, and we were headed south on the intracoastal at 9:30 AM.
No matter how many times I have seen it, I still love to watch boats being launched - the exactness of the lift driver, then the slow descend being lowered back into the water – exciting !
We had a good day with the exception of the winds – about 15 knots, and some down pours with the the discovery of the ever blasting, “new leaks.”
I was not sure how Crew would take to the boat. Last year when we left, he was about 9 pounds, this year he is about 52 pounds. We left him in the cabin all day today, and he seemed content. He seems to have forgotten how last year he did “his business” at the bow of the boat which made for a very relaxing time for us. This year – no go ! SO, we have to get him off of the boat. Getting him off and on the boat was another story – especially on a fixed dock, with about a two foot gap between the boat the dock because of the pilings, then another two foot drop down to the rail of the boat. We have always thought Crew had some “cat” tendencies ie: he can be persnickety, when you throw the ball to him, sometimes he jumps up and bats it with his paw or tries to catch it with his paws, when he gets upset, he will swipe at you with his paw. Well, today he did his best Garfield imitations and when we would pick him up, he would spread all four legs out as far as they would go to each side of his body – this did not make the process as smooth as it could have been.
Jon got us pedometers to wear so we do not get too lazy on our trip. To get my step count each day, I need to figure out a way to clip my pedometer onto Crew……..
Tuesday, 2-23-10
MM 934 Sebastian River Marina
We were up and off at 7:00 AM today. We started with very cloudy skies and distant showers, then fog, which gave way to late afternoon sunny skies.
Jon decided it was a good day to try Crew up on the bridge. Getting him up was no problem. I think every person in the marina heard us trying to get him down, he did his usual Garfield pose which resulted in us made us having a small wrestling match with him while trying to get him down the ladder – uugghh…..
We arrived at 2:30 PM today, so the plan is a long walk with Crew (got to get the steps in on the pedometer), dinner at an Italian restaurant (I knew those microwave hot dogs last night would ensure a dinner out tonight ;) ), and to bed early.
We are leaking some oil which should not be happening so the mechanic that rebuilt our engine is going to meet us wherever we land tomorrow and take a look at the engine.
They are predicting a front coming through tomorrow afternoon with winds 20 – 25, and a big drop in the temperature. We had planned about a 45 mile day, but if things still look dicey tomorrow AM, we are going to duck in at the Fort Pierce marina and hunker down for the front.
Wed. 2-24-10
MM 968 Fort Pierce City Marina
We were off at 7:00 AM, and when the first raindrops hit before we were out of the channel, I should have known it was an omen to turn right back around. We headed out and hit downpour after downpour, and then the winds picked up. We knew there was weather coming, but we did not think it would come that soon. The boat leaked up at the bridge, the boat leaked down below – especially all over my bed. My anxiety level continued rise, which must have rubbed off on Crew. Jon and I were back up on the bridge, and I asked Jon if he smelled anything “funny” – he agreed, he smelled something “funny.” We did not think too much more about it until I went back down to start getting lines and fenders ready. I opened the cabin door, and immediately was greeted by the distinct odor of doggy diarhea, and sure enough, Crew had decorated every inch of the cabin. I have never been able to change a dirty diaper without gagging, and this about put me over the edge. I finally got it picked up, then entered panic mode because we were approaching the marina and I still had to get lines and fenders ready. We arrived at the marina, could not quite maneuver the slip so had to reapproach and the dock hand had mercy on us, and put us on a face dock. I kept smelling the “smell”, and finally realized it was coming from my shoes, and the bottom of my pant legs. I then noticed Crew had also decorated the bow of the boat, and that it had my shoe prints in it. I had then traipsed all over the boat and covered every area Crew had missed the first time.
I was going to post pictures of the extreme weather from this morning. When I went to get my camera, I realized that when I come down initially to get the lines ready, I threw the canvas bag that had our coffee mugs and our good camera in it, our really good camera. I had forgotten all about the bag, and that my coffee mug was half full, so when I went to get the camera, it was bathing in a lake of coffee, and you guessed it, bye bye camera.
It is only noon time. Willie our diesel mechanic that rebuilt our engine last year in Stuart is here trying to find our oil leak. Our boat smells like………. and so does our dog. There are still nine hours left until bed time. I think is must have been a boater who determined that it always five o’clock somewhere, so in that spirit - cheers – and tomorrow will come.
MM 878 Titusville Marina
We actually are on our way. We arrived at the marina in Daytona, they launched Sundance back in to the water, and we were headed south on the intracoastal at 9:30 AM.
No matter how many times I have seen it, I still love to watch boats being launched - the exactness of the lift driver, then the slow descend being lowered back into the water – exciting !
We had a good day with the exception of the winds – about 15 knots, and some down pours with the the discovery of the ever blasting, “new leaks.”
I was not sure how Crew would take to the boat. Last year when we left, he was about 9 pounds, this year he is about 52 pounds. We left him in the cabin all day today, and he seemed content. He seems to have forgotten how last year he did “his business” at the bow of the boat which made for a very relaxing time for us. This year – no go ! SO, we have to get him off of the boat. Getting him off and on the boat was another story – especially on a fixed dock, with about a two foot gap between the boat the dock because of the pilings, then another two foot drop down to the rail of the boat. We have always thought Crew had some “cat” tendencies ie: he can be persnickety, when you throw the ball to him, sometimes he jumps up and bats it with his paw or tries to catch it with his paws, when he gets upset, he will swipe at you with his paw. Well, today he did his best Garfield imitations and when we would pick him up, he would spread all four legs out as far as they would go to each side of his body – this did not make the process as smooth as it could have been.
Jon got us pedometers to wear so we do not get too lazy on our trip. To get my step count each day, I need to figure out a way to clip my pedometer onto Crew……..
Tuesday, 2-23-10
MM 934 Sebastian River Marina
We were up and off at 7:00 AM today. We started with very cloudy skies and distant showers, then fog, which gave way to late afternoon sunny skies.
Jon decided it was a good day to try Crew up on the bridge. Getting him up was no problem. I think every person in the marina heard us trying to get him down, he did his usual Garfield pose which resulted in us made us having a small wrestling match with him while trying to get him down the ladder – uugghh…..
We arrived at 2:30 PM today, so the plan is a long walk with Crew (got to get the steps in on the pedometer), dinner at an Italian restaurant (I knew those microwave hot dogs last night would ensure a dinner out tonight ;) ), and to bed early.
We are leaking some oil which should not be happening so the mechanic that rebuilt our engine is going to meet us wherever we land tomorrow and take a look at the engine.
They are predicting a front coming through tomorrow afternoon with winds 20 – 25, and a big drop in the temperature. We had planned about a 45 mile day, but if things still look dicey tomorrow AM, we are going to duck in at the Fort Pierce marina and hunker down for the front.
Wed. 2-24-10
MM 968 Fort Pierce City Marina
We were off at 7:00 AM, and when the first raindrops hit before we were out of the channel, I should have known it was an omen to turn right back around. We headed out and hit downpour after downpour, and then the winds picked up. We knew there was weather coming, but we did not think it would come that soon. The boat leaked up at the bridge, the boat leaked down below – especially all over my bed. My anxiety level continued rise, which must have rubbed off on Crew. Jon and I were back up on the bridge, and I asked Jon if he smelled anything “funny” – he agreed, he smelled something “funny.” We did not think too much more about it until I went back down to start getting lines and fenders ready. I opened the cabin door, and immediately was greeted by the distinct odor of doggy diarhea, and sure enough, Crew had decorated every inch of the cabin. I have never been able to change a dirty diaper without gagging, and this about put me over the edge. I finally got it picked up, then entered panic mode because we were approaching the marina and I still had to get lines and fenders ready. We arrived at the marina, could not quite maneuver the slip so had to reapproach and the dock hand had mercy on us, and put us on a face dock. I kept smelling the “smell”, and finally realized it was coming from my shoes, and the bottom of my pant legs. I then noticed Crew had also decorated the bow of the boat, and that it had my shoe prints in it. I had then traipsed all over the boat and covered every area Crew had missed the first time.
I was going to post pictures of the extreme weather from this morning. When I went to get my camera, I realized that when I come down initially to get the lines ready, I threw the canvas bag that had our coffee mugs and our good camera in it, our really good camera. I had forgotten all about the bag, and that my coffee mug was half full, so when I went to get the camera, it was bathing in a lake of coffee, and you guessed it, bye bye camera.
It is only noon time. Willie our diesel mechanic that rebuilt our engine last year in Stuart is here trying to find our oil leak. Our boat smells like………. and so does our dog. There are still nine hours left until bed time. I think is must have been a boater who determined that it always five o’clock somewhere, so in that spirit - cheers – and tomorrow will come.
This sums it up - just when you think things are calm and you least expect it - Another big wave is coming in
Thurs. 2-25-10
MM 968 Fort Pierce City Marina
Yesterday we walked around the downtown area, ate a nice dinner and watched some TV. Crew’s stomach was still a bit shakey, but we got to bed early with hopes for an early start. We woke up and as predicted, it was windy – 20 – 25, so we decided to stay put. We needed some groceries, so the marina told us there was a grocery store a couple of blocks away. We decided to walk, and approximately 10 miles later, finally found the grocery store – I was like, are you kidding me ?! I had blisters on my feet and my pedometer was spinning !!! We got what we needed and headed back, with Crew decorating the route about every 100 feet. Once back to the boat Crew seemed to be getting worse, so we tracked a vet down. We had to call a taxi who said they would be to the marina in fifteen minutes. An hour later the taxi arrived and the woman driving took one look at crew and her eyes grew the size of saucers. It became quickly apparent she was terrified of dogs as she commented, “no one told me nothing bout no dog !” I told her it should have seemed logical we would have a pet since we were going to the veterinarian. She finally let us in but she obviously had forgotten to her medication because she screamed at every car we went by – get out of my way, don’t you be giving me any looks, don’t you be trying to push me out my lane etc…. you probably get the idea. My biggest fear was that Crew was going to have a little incontinence episode, luckily he held out till we arrived at the vets. $200.00 later, Crew was diagnosed with stress colitis and I thought I had the market on stress ! We finally got back to the boat, filled him up with his new medications, and prayed he will make it through the tonight ! We are headed back into town tonight for dinner, then to bed early with plans for an early start tomorrow.
Friday 2-26-10
MM 1023 West Palm Beach Yacht Club
We headed out at 7:00 AM, and about 10 minutes later, Jon went into the “Oh no” mode and he told me we were loosing all of our batteries. I did not understand this was bad until he told me no batteries, no motor – I got it then – it was bad. Jon shut everything off, and eventually the power came back up.
The day proceeded with a great trip with winds and current in our favor. As we passed Jupiter Island I was on the look out for Tiger Woods, but as you may recall, I ruined the “good camera”, and my back up camera has a zoom of about ten feet – so no luck today. We arrived at the marina at about 2:30 PM. Was a bit disappointed to learn they have a shower for men, but no showers for women, and they have no TV cable hook ups because all of the boats here are mega boats with their own TV. Anyway, for one night we figured no problem. I took Crew for a long walk, he did his business and we headed back to our boat. To get to our boat you have to walk on the carpeted walkway in front of the yacht club restaurant, and you guessed it, Crew decorated the whole front walkway on the carpet in front of the entrance to the restaurant. I do not know who was more horrified, me or the yacht club member who was seated in front the restaurant drinking a glass of wine. Oh well…. We then lowered the mast down to give us a couple of extra feet for bridge clearance, did other boat chores, then around 5:00 PM, Jon decided to start the boat up to try to determine why the boat shorted this morning. Jon turned the key, and nothing, as in, the boat would not start. We had already talked and decided that if anything else major happened with the boat, we were done. Now the test is here……
On a Friday at 5:00 PM, you just do not find a mechanic, but low and behold, there just happened to be one here at the marina working on another boat. He came to check the boat – and the good news is we discovered why the boat shorted out this morning, the bad news is we discovered why the boat shorted out this morning. Turns out – the starter motor did not disengage, which is what shorted the boat out this morning, and we have now fried the starter motor. When the mechanic opened the hatch, we immediately smelled it and he said were lucky we did not catch on fire. He said it was because of our good wiring system – thank you Harold Long !!!, the wiring was heavy duty enough it did not catch on fire.
Because it is the weekend, it is doubtful that the mechanic will be able to locate the parts we need because we are talking a 1979 boat. So, here we will sit, in West Palm Beach until at least Monday, probably Tuesday. I suppose this is the time to find the humor in life, and as soon as we find it, you will see it posted here so stay tuned !
MM 968 Fort Pierce City Marina
Yesterday we walked around the downtown area, ate a nice dinner and watched some TV. Crew’s stomach was still a bit shakey, but we got to bed early with hopes for an early start. We woke up and as predicted, it was windy – 20 – 25, so we decided to stay put. We needed some groceries, so the marina told us there was a grocery store a couple of blocks away. We decided to walk, and approximately 10 miles later, finally found the grocery store – I was like, are you kidding me ?! I had blisters on my feet and my pedometer was spinning !!! We got what we needed and headed back, with Crew decorating the route about every 100 feet. Once back to the boat Crew seemed to be getting worse, so we tracked a vet down. We had to call a taxi who said they would be to the marina in fifteen minutes. An hour later the taxi arrived and the woman driving took one look at crew and her eyes grew the size of saucers. It became quickly apparent she was terrified of dogs as she commented, “no one told me nothing bout no dog !” I told her it should have seemed logical we would have a pet since we were going to the veterinarian. She finally let us in but she obviously had forgotten to her medication because she screamed at every car we went by – get out of my way, don’t you be giving me any looks, don’t you be trying to push me out my lane etc…. you probably get the idea. My biggest fear was that Crew was going to have a little incontinence episode, luckily he held out till we arrived at the vets. $200.00 later, Crew was diagnosed with stress colitis and I thought I had the market on stress ! We finally got back to the boat, filled him up with his new medications, and prayed he will make it through the tonight ! We are headed back into town tonight for dinner, then to bed early with plans for an early start tomorrow.
Friday 2-26-10
MM 1023 West Palm Beach Yacht Club
We headed out at 7:00 AM, and about 10 minutes later, Jon went into the “Oh no” mode and he told me we were loosing all of our batteries. I did not understand this was bad until he told me no batteries, no motor – I got it then – it was bad. Jon shut everything off, and eventually the power came back up.
The day proceeded with a great trip with winds and current in our favor. As we passed Jupiter Island I was on the look out for Tiger Woods, but as you may recall, I ruined the “good camera”, and my back up camera has a zoom of about ten feet – so no luck today. We arrived at the marina at about 2:30 PM. Was a bit disappointed to learn they have a shower for men, but no showers for women, and they have no TV cable hook ups because all of the boats here are mega boats with their own TV. Anyway, for one night we figured no problem. I took Crew for a long walk, he did his business and we headed back to our boat. To get to our boat you have to walk on the carpeted walkway in front of the yacht club restaurant, and you guessed it, Crew decorated the whole front walkway on the carpet in front of the entrance to the restaurant. I do not know who was more horrified, me or the yacht club member who was seated in front the restaurant drinking a glass of wine. Oh well…. We then lowered the mast down to give us a couple of extra feet for bridge clearance, did other boat chores, then around 5:00 PM, Jon decided to start the boat up to try to determine why the boat shorted this morning. Jon turned the key, and nothing, as in, the boat would not start. We had already talked and decided that if anything else major happened with the boat, we were done. Now the test is here……
On a Friday at 5:00 PM, you just do not find a mechanic, but low and behold, there just happened to be one here at the marina working on another boat. He came to check the boat – and the good news is we discovered why the boat shorted out this morning, the bad news is we discovered why the boat shorted out this morning. Turns out – the starter motor did not disengage, which is what shorted the boat out this morning, and we have now fried the starter motor. When the mechanic opened the hatch, we immediately smelled it and he said were lucky we did not catch on fire. He said it was because of our good wiring system – thank you Harold Long !!!, the wiring was heavy duty enough it did not catch on fire.
Because it is the weekend, it is doubtful that the mechanic will be able to locate the parts we need because we are talking a 1979 boat. So, here we will sit, in West Palm Beach until at least Monday, probably Tuesday. I suppose this is the time to find the humor in life, and as soon as we find it, you will see it posted here so stay tuned !
I called Crew's name
Then told him to smile for a picture
The Palm Beach farmer's market - food and flowers my favorites
Good thing Crew didn't see how the dogs live here
Sat. 2-27-10
West Palm Beach Yacht Club
Last night we had a great dinner at ER Bradleys.
It was nice to sleep in this AM, and awoke to sunny skies and squawking seagulls perched on the breakwater wall. We went to the farmers market which was full of vendors with fresh produce, homemade goodies, and flowers. We picked up lots of produce, fresh baked bread, and homemade guacamole and salsa. There were dogs everywhere ! We thought about taking Crew but after his episode yesterday, we did not think a repeat performance would be appreciated and his tummy is still not right. We then dropped off our goods and walked across the bridge to Palm Beach. We went to the Publix grocery store by the Breakers hotel. Now, this was quite an experience. I actually was a bit annoyed because they had complimentary valet parking for grocery shopping, and we did not have a vehicle ! I am definitely going to speak to the manger of the Palm Coast Publix about this. We took a taxi back to the boat. I am sure we looked like the Beverly Hillbillies lugging all of our jugs of water, and plastic bags full of groceries down the dock past all of the yachts ! We then were invited to board an absolute gorgeous 1963, 85 foot Trumpy. The owner was a really nice guy and provided us with a full tour. It has been perfectly and beautifully restored.
The weather has turned as predicted and it is really blowing out, raining, and we are rocking and rolling.
We are planning to dine in this evening, and have pulled out all of board games for a night of good old fashioned fun.
West Palm Beach Yacht Club
Last night we had a great dinner at ER Bradleys.
It was nice to sleep in this AM, and awoke to sunny skies and squawking seagulls perched on the breakwater wall. We went to the farmers market which was full of vendors with fresh produce, homemade goodies, and flowers. We picked up lots of produce, fresh baked bread, and homemade guacamole and salsa. There were dogs everywhere ! We thought about taking Crew but after his episode yesterday, we did not think a repeat performance would be appreciated and his tummy is still not right. We then dropped off our goods and walked across the bridge to Palm Beach. We went to the Publix grocery store by the Breakers hotel. Now, this was quite an experience. I actually was a bit annoyed because they had complimentary valet parking for grocery shopping, and we did not have a vehicle ! I am definitely going to speak to the manger of the Palm Coast Publix about this. We took a taxi back to the boat. I am sure we looked like the Beverly Hillbillies lugging all of our jugs of water, and plastic bags full of groceries down the dock past all of the yachts ! We then were invited to board an absolute gorgeous 1963, 85 foot Trumpy. The owner was a really nice guy and provided us with a full tour. It has been perfectly and beautifully restored.
The weather has turned as predicted and it is really blowing out, raining, and we are rocking and rolling.
We are planning to dine in this evening, and have pulled out all of board games for a night of good old fashioned fun.
Palm Beach Yacht Club
Complimentary valet parking at Publix
Waiting for the taxi at Publix and annoyed that we did not have a car to take advantage of valet parking at a grocery store
When Sundance grows up, she wants to be a Trumpy
Monday March 1, 2010
Still Palm Beach Yacht Club
How is it going ? well………….
It is 11:30 AM, we are still waiting to hear from the mechanic with hopes that he was able to find a new starter motor.
We have had so many exciting adventures while here like: there is only a shower in the men’s bathroom, which we discovered is the restroom for all of the staff. So, I tried to take a shower while Jon stood guard and even though I was speedy, when I got out there was line cued up, and not too happy about it. I decided to shower on the boat next time, and the plug to direct the water from the spout to the shower head became undone and sprayed water everywhere; last night, the galley sink clogged up and flooded everything below the sink. Even I was amazed at how much we had managed to store below the sink because everything last thing was wet and had to removed, dried off and then put back. As I write, I have a load of laundry in the washer, I tried to take it out and the top of the washer locked and would not open, I am washing the clothes for a second time with the hope the door will open after this load, why I am surprised by this seems pointless; Crew still has diarrhea – this should be a treat when we get underway again; the tides here are about three feet with a 2 knot current so we either have to jump down, or climb up to get off/on the boat, and the current makes it impossible to get the boat to the dock so it is always a leap of faith which becomes compounded with joy when you are trying to get a dog off and on the boat that continues to spread his legs like Garfield.
It has become apparent that we will only be able to leave here with slack tide because we are in a very narrow channel between the mega boats and the breakwater wall. I have a feeling we would become persons non gratis at all east coast yacht clubs if we wiped out the whole yacht club fleet on our way out of here.
Hopefully we will still get this boat repaired at some point, and be able to leave. Jon has a flight scheduled this Saturday out of Key West to back home for a meeting. It certainly was a reasonable plan when we planned everything but we did not plan on our problems back at Palm Coast which delayed us over a week, and now this delay.
Still Palm Beach Yacht Club
How is it going ? well………….
It is 11:30 AM, we are still waiting to hear from the mechanic with hopes that he was able to find a new starter motor.
We have had so many exciting adventures while here like: there is only a shower in the men’s bathroom, which we discovered is the restroom for all of the staff. So, I tried to take a shower while Jon stood guard and even though I was speedy, when I got out there was line cued up, and not too happy about it. I decided to shower on the boat next time, and the plug to direct the water from the spout to the shower head became undone and sprayed water everywhere; last night, the galley sink clogged up and flooded everything below the sink. Even I was amazed at how much we had managed to store below the sink because everything last thing was wet and had to removed, dried off and then put back. As I write, I have a load of laundry in the washer, I tried to take it out and the top of the washer locked and would not open, I am washing the clothes for a second time with the hope the door will open after this load, why I am surprised by this seems pointless; Crew still has diarrhea – this should be a treat when we get underway again; the tides here are about three feet with a 2 knot current so we either have to jump down, or climb up to get off/on the boat, and the current makes it impossible to get the boat to the dock so it is always a leap of faith which becomes compounded with joy when you are trying to get a dog off and on the boat that continues to spread his legs like Garfield.
It has become apparent that we will only be able to leave here with slack tide because we are in a very narrow channel between the mega boats and the breakwater wall. I have a feeling we would become persons non gratis at all east coast yacht clubs if we wiped out the whole yacht club fleet on our way out of here.
Hopefully we will still get this boat repaired at some point, and be able to leave. Jon has a flight scheduled this Saturday out of Key West to back home for a meeting. It certainly was a reasonable plan when we planned everything but we did not plan on our problems back at Palm Coast which delayed us over a week, and now this delay.
It's cold here in West Palm Beach !
Ball playing in the park
Followed by nap time
Tuesday March 2, 2010
Still West Palm Beach Thanks be for the Burger Bar and Happy Hour which we thoroughly enjoyed last night on Clematis St. We got back to the boat, we moaned and groaned as we fought the current to pull the boat to the dock, wrestled with Garfield to get him off of the boat, took a walk, then repeated the same routine to get back on the boat. One good thing about Crew, he has made allot of friends and every time we go out, he makes his rounds to visit everyone. The Dockmaster, Billy, from Marathon called Crew yesterday to tell him he was waiting for him with a supply of cookies.
A mechanic showed up about 5:15 PM last night. We think he was about 16 years old. He spent a good amount of his time on the phone calling the guy who was supposed to come. In fifteen minutes, he sliced his finger, crossed some live wires and cracked the housing to the cellunoid (sp?). He left with promises of an early return today with a new cellunoid. He returned this morning at about 8:45 AM and again after many telephone calls, decided it was the relay on the starter, and off again he went to buy a relay. Meantime, the skies began to thicken and fill in again with debut of the front scheduled to arrive at 10:00 AM with gusts predicted up to 60. Once again, we realized we would be spending yet another day in West Palm Beach. The front did not come together as advertised, but it still was blowing 25 – 30 so we were glad we stayed put. The Dockmaster was kind enough to give us a lift, and we ended up taking Crew back to the vets today – change in medication, hopefully will kick in soon ! No one here knows us, but everyone knows Crew and he is quite the hit at the marina, as well as with all of the club members he meets entering or exiting the dining room.
Tonight we headed back to Clematis street to a taco bar – delish ! Our plan is to get up and off by 5:30 AM to catch the slack tide, and our only early AM chance of getting out of here. Hoping to make it to South Miami tomorrow which will be quite a haul for us because we are separated from south Miami by about 30 bridges ! If we are successful, we still have a chance to make it to Marathon by Friday, and get Jon on his plane Sat. for Boston.
Still West Palm Beach Thanks be for the Burger Bar and Happy Hour which we thoroughly enjoyed last night on Clematis St. We got back to the boat, we moaned and groaned as we fought the current to pull the boat to the dock, wrestled with Garfield to get him off of the boat, took a walk, then repeated the same routine to get back on the boat. One good thing about Crew, he has made allot of friends and every time we go out, he makes his rounds to visit everyone. The Dockmaster, Billy, from Marathon called Crew yesterday to tell him he was waiting for him with a supply of cookies.
A mechanic showed up about 5:15 PM last night. We think he was about 16 years old. He spent a good amount of his time on the phone calling the guy who was supposed to come. In fifteen minutes, he sliced his finger, crossed some live wires and cracked the housing to the cellunoid (sp?). He left with promises of an early return today with a new cellunoid. He returned this morning at about 8:45 AM and again after many telephone calls, decided it was the relay on the starter, and off again he went to buy a relay. Meantime, the skies began to thicken and fill in again with debut of the front scheduled to arrive at 10:00 AM with gusts predicted up to 60. Once again, we realized we would be spending yet another day in West Palm Beach. The front did not come together as advertised, but it still was blowing 25 – 30 so we were glad we stayed put. The Dockmaster was kind enough to give us a lift, and we ended up taking Crew back to the vets today – change in medication, hopefully will kick in soon ! No one here knows us, but everyone knows Crew and he is quite the hit at the marina, as well as with all of the club members he meets entering or exiting the dining room.
Tonight we headed back to Clematis street to a taco bar – delish ! Our plan is to get up and off by 5:30 AM to catch the slack tide, and our only early AM chance of getting out of here. Hoping to make it to South Miami tomorrow which will be quite a haul for us because we are separated from south Miami by about 30 bridges ! If we are successful, we still have a chance to make it to Marathon by Friday, and get Jon on his plane Sat. for Boston.
Recycled material exhibit - flip flop tree
Boy made from pencils, tree made from rakes
Full moon over Palm Beach reflecting over the ICW
Marina lit up by a full moon
Wed. 3-3-10
MM 1023.1 Palm Harbor Marina – West Palm Beach
We have moved – exactly .2 of a mile.
We got up at 5:00 AM with the winds howling a constant 20 – gusts to 30. Jon made the call we would leave, we are trying to get to Marathon so Jon can make his plane on Saturday. It was just slight of a night mare trying to get of the slip – we ended up leaving some lines because we could not get them off of the pilings with the wind blowing the lines so taut. We finally got on our way, and called to the bridge for an opening because the guide indicated they opened on demand until 7:15 AM. It was 6:15 AM when we called, and she told us she was not on demand, and we just missed the 6:15 AM opening. SO, we began a half hour circling. About 20 minutes into the circling, Jon noted, you guessed it – voltage dropping. We made it through the bridge and we turned into to the first marina. Another joy filled docking with the wind, but at least it is a floating dock. By the time we pulled in, and got the engine hatch up, we were greeted by a burning smell. We grabbed the fire extinguisher, and luckily no fire, but had to air the boat out (yes it is really cold to boot….). We were hoping that the kid, who sparked himself about ten times yesterday wiring the boat, AKA: Sparky, wired the cellunoid wrong. We put a call out to the mechanic’s office, who called us about 8:00 AM, and they told us they would track down the original mechanic to come over.
The original mechanic came over, and informed us we fried the brand new starter motor. It turned out to be the starter switch on the bridge was short circuiting, so when we started the engine, the starter switch repeatedly kept engaging the starter motor . We are now the proud owners of our second new motor starter in three days. This all reminds me of a song; 12 days of planning, eleven jugs of wine, ten new swear words, nine days away, eight days in port, seven new leaks, six days of waiting, five sleepless nights, four feet of tides, three mechanic visits, two vet trips, and an old boat that doesn’t want to go…..
We did get good news, the Vet (the most recent one) called today and Crew’s “sample” was negative for worms, parasites, tennis balls, alcohol – yippee !! I still can’t imagine why he ever would have developed stress colitis during this trip.
Maybe tomorrow we will make it to south, West Palm Beach……..
MM 1023.1 Palm Harbor Marina – West Palm Beach
We have moved – exactly .2 of a mile.
We got up at 5:00 AM with the winds howling a constant 20 – gusts to 30. Jon made the call we would leave, we are trying to get to Marathon so Jon can make his plane on Saturday. It was just slight of a night mare trying to get of the slip – we ended up leaving some lines because we could not get them off of the pilings with the wind blowing the lines so taut. We finally got on our way, and called to the bridge for an opening because the guide indicated they opened on demand until 7:15 AM. It was 6:15 AM when we called, and she told us she was not on demand, and we just missed the 6:15 AM opening. SO, we began a half hour circling. About 20 minutes into the circling, Jon noted, you guessed it – voltage dropping. We made it through the bridge and we turned into to the first marina. Another joy filled docking with the wind, but at least it is a floating dock. By the time we pulled in, and got the engine hatch up, we were greeted by a burning smell. We grabbed the fire extinguisher, and luckily no fire, but had to air the boat out (yes it is really cold to boot….). We were hoping that the kid, who sparked himself about ten times yesterday wiring the boat, AKA: Sparky, wired the cellunoid wrong. We put a call out to the mechanic’s office, who called us about 8:00 AM, and they told us they would track down the original mechanic to come over.
The original mechanic came over, and informed us we fried the brand new starter motor. It turned out to be the starter switch on the bridge was short circuiting, so when we started the engine, the starter switch repeatedly kept engaging the starter motor . We are now the proud owners of our second new motor starter in three days. This all reminds me of a song; 12 days of planning, eleven jugs of wine, ten new swear words, nine days away, eight days in port, seven new leaks, six days of waiting, five sleepless nights, four feet of tides, three mechanic visits, two vet trips, and an old boat that doesn’t want to go…..
We did get good news, the Vet (the most recent one) called today and Crew’s “sample” was negative for worms, parasites, tennis balls, alcohol – yippee !! I still can’t imagine why he ever would have developed stress colitis during this trip.
Maybe tomorrow we will make it to south, West Palm Beach……..
Our engine room - mechanic twisted like a pretzel on the right
Sundance looking like a dinghy again
Thurs. 3-4-10
Palm Harbor Marina
Lying in bed last night, I decided I had the wrong attitude about this whole adventure. Instead of worrying and asking “what else can possibly go wrong ? ” I needed to wake up every morning, embrace the experience, open my arms up wide and yell out, “OK – sock it to me !”
So, this morning, I woke up, started with my new exercise of opening my arms up wide, and yelled, “Sock it to me!” Nothing happened, (with the exception of Jon asking me if I had lost my mind – and yes, I think I am becoming certifiable) it was very peaceful, winds were down, sun just starting to creep up. We decided to start the boat and let it run, a little hesitant to start, but then she hummed like a choir.
We took our time, got all our cords put away. Secured everything down, and after a half hour of running with no problems we set off. We backed up two feet, when Jon yelled out, we are loosing voltage, get her tied back up. I did my best pirouette off of the boat, on to the dock, grabbed a line and had her tied up faster than a cowboy roping a calf. I then remembered that while walking yesterday, Jon was in front of me, did a sudden stop which caused me to stumble and roll my ankle – oh yes, there was that forgotten stab of pain in my ankle and shin……
Jon then did some battery switch - a - roonies, and determined that it may be one of our batteries was gone. Now, one of these batteries weighs about the same as my left thigh, which means there is no way we could do this on our own, so, back on the phone to John – the mechanic.
John was over by 7:30 AM – let the games begin. Allot was going on – wire checking, voltage checking, this hatch open etc……. when, I heard Jon yell, “Oh my god –we are sinking !” Really – I can not make this stuff up. Jon exclaimed that water was pouring into the boat. I, at this point, looked up to the sky for God, and told him I was really only kidding about the “sock it to me!” concept – you know – kind of a joke.
I will keep the following technological info. brief, not so much because I do not want to expand on it, but more a case of I am kind of “non-boatie.” This is my version of the problems that occurred.
1) Our boat filled up with water because with all of the power shut off, our bilge pump stopped working. We then discovered with the boat weighted on the heavy side with tanks full of fuel and water, the thru hull for one of our the bilge pumps was below the water line – so with the power off, all of the water began to rush in to the boat. Our plan is to drill a thru hull in the boat tomorrow higher above the water line. At the conclusion of our hysteria, I was reassured when John told us that technically, you are not sinking until your engine is underwater – sure made me feel better……..
2) We learned that that all of our batteries (3) were working as one, so that if one battery failed, all three failed, as opposed to if each battery was wired separately, each battery would operate independently, thus always providing access to back up battery power, should one battery go.
3) We only have one alternator on the boat, to power three batteries. Our 65 amp alternator is not nearly adequate, so we have ordered a second 110 amp alternator to be shipped to us.
In a nutshell, there goes my hope of making it to south West Palm Beach tomorrow. We are having a new alternator shipped to us which hopefully arrive overnighted, tomorrow afternoon. The earliest we will be able to leave here is Sat. – a weekend run on the intracoastal through Fort Lauderdale and Miami should be incredibly exciting, more likely, probably we leave on Sunday, could be Monday.
The really bright news is that as the cha - ching meter is spinning wildy out of control at this point, I have actually convinced Jon that our trip we have scheduled to France this fall for three weeks, is relatively inexpensive by comparison – see what I mean about things always working out ??!!
Palm Harbor Marina
Lying in bed last night, I decided I had the wrong attitude about this whole adventure. Instead of worrying and asking “what else can possibly go wrong ? ” I needed to wake up every morning, embrace the experience, open my arms up wide and yell out, “OK – sock it to me !”
So, this morning, I woke up, started with my new exercise of opening my arms up wide, and yelled, “Sock it to me!” Nothing happened, (with the exception of Jon asking me if I had lost my mind – and yes, I think I am becoming certifiable) it was very peaceful, winds were down, sun just starting to creep up. We decided to start the boat and let it run, a little hesitant to start, but then she hummed like a choir.
We took our time, got all our cords put away. Secured everything down, and after a half hour of running with no problems we set off. We backed up two feet, when Jon yelled out, we are loosing voltage, get her tied back up. I did my best pirouette off of the boat, on to the dock, grabbed a line and had her tied up faster than a cowboy roping a calf. I then remembered that while walking yesterday, Jon was in front of me, did a sudden stop which caused me to stumble and roll my ankle – oh yes, there was that forgotten stab of pain in my ankle and shin……
Jon then did some battery switch - a - roonies, and determined that it may be one of our batteries was gone. Now, one of these batteries weighs about the same as my left thigh, which means there is no way we could do this on our own, so, back on the phone to John – the mechanic.
John was over by 7:30 AM – let the games begin. Allot was going on – wire checking, voltage checking, this hatch open etc……. when, I heard Jon yell, “Oh my god –we are sinking !” Really – I can not make this stuff up. Jon exclaimed that water was pouring into the boat. I, at this point, looked up to the sky for God, and told him I was really only kidding about the “sock it to me!” concept – you know – kind of a joke.
I will keep the following technological info. brief, not so much because I do not want to expand on it, but more a case of I am kind of “non-boatie.” This is my version of the problems that occurred.
1) Our boat filled up with water because with all of the power shut off, our bilge pump stopped working. We then discovered with the boat weighted on the heavy side with tanks full of fuel and water, the thru hull for one of our the bilge pumps was below the water line – so with the power off, all of the water began to rush in to the boat. Our plan is to drill a thru hull in the boat tomorrow higher above the water line. At the conclusion of our hysteria, I was reassured when John told us that technically, you are not sinking until your engine is underwater – sure made me feel better……..
2) We learned that that all of our batteries (3) were working as one, so that if one battery failed, all three failed, as opposed to if each battery was wired separately, each battery would operate independently, thus always providing access to back up battery power, should one battery go.
3) We only have one alternator on the boat, to power three batteries. Our 65 amp alternator is not nearly adequate, so we have ordered a second 110 amp alternator to be shipped to us.
In a nutshell, there goes my hope of making it to south West Palm Beach tomorrow. We are having a new alternator shipped to us which hopefully arrive overnighted, tomorrow afternoon. The earliest we will be able to leave here is Sat. – a weekend run on the intracoastal through Fort Lauderdale and Miami should be incredibly exciting, more likely, probably we leave on Sunday, could be Monday.
The really bright news is that as the cha - ching meter is spinning wildy out of control at this point, I have actually convinced Jon that our trip we have scheduled to France this fall for three weeks, is relatively inexpensive by comparison – see what I mean about things always working out ??!!
Boater's lounge - my home away from home, away from home
Sat. 3-6-10 Still West Palm Beach surprise, surprise..... Yesterday turned out to be a bit of a ground hog day, highlighted by me doing laundry - who knew laundry could actually be a form of entertainment ! I spent the day in the boater's lounge - my home away from home - away from home, and Jon waited at the boat for the mechanic to come. The lounge is actually brand new and quite nice - a gym, full kitchen, three bathroom/shower rooms, four large screen TV's. laundry room - and most of the time I am the only one there. I finally headed back to the boat t 5:30 PM, just in time for the mechanic to show up. Because the mechanic stayed until 9:00 PM, we ordered pizza delivered to the boat for dinner - oh please - when will the excitement ever end ? I woke up this morning with another idea - reverse psychology ! SO, I put my intention out to the universe, that I loved it so much here, that I did not care if we ever left, or ever made it to Marathon. As soon as I did it, I panicked - after all, the "Sock it to me" idea did not turn out so well. I quickly let it be known that I was only kidding - the Seafood festival is next weekend in Marathon - missing an opportunity at a feeding frenzy will not make Susie a happy boater. The mechanic was back on the boat this morning at 9:30 AM. I cancelled Jon's airline reservation for today to fly to Boston. For the 8th day in a row, I changed all of our marina reservations and our car reservation for Marathon. The mechanic finally wrapped up and said we were good to go (again). We headed out to Clematis Street to celebrate, had dinner at an Irish pub, then to bed with great expectations, and the luck of the Irish hopefully following us to make it to at least South Palm Beach tomorrow, keep your fingers and toes crossed for us !
Sun. 3-7-10
MM 1093
Grove Isla Marina, Miami
We were up and started off the dock, when to my horror, as Jon backed up, I noticed we still had a port bow line on. Now this is major faux pas (practicing my French). I yelled to Jon to pull back up to the dock, and I prepared to launch myself again in my famous pirouette off of the dock. I had a line in my hand, made my jump, my foot caught the edge of the rail, and down I went, chin first, (all 120 pounds of me – OK 125 pounds) smack on the cement dock. I saw stars, looked for teeth which luckily were still in mouth, and then rolled over to get up. At this point I did not realize my pocket had caught on the cleat and I about ripped my pants off of me. I am now the proud owner of a chin that is swollen to about the size of a golf ball, and is all back and blue. I finally got the line undone and off we went. I told Jon I was not sure I could move my jaw very much, his look of hopeful antcipation that this would be the case irritated me to the point I quickly regained full mobility and flapping of my jaws.
We did pretty well on our start expect the new alternator dropped in wattage, so we switched the power back to the other battery and the old alternator, and all was well.
We knew it was not a good idea to leave on a Sunday because #1, if we had any problems, there would be nothing available for help on a Sunday, and #2, we knew there would be allot of boat traffic. The other factor is the section we were going through had about 35 bridges. No surprises, no one obeyed the speed limit and no wakes zones, the boat traffic was worse than we thought, but no problems. We went about 60 miles today, and it took us 12 ½ hours. We finally arrived at the marina at 7:00 PM, exhausted and I have a booming jaw/headache. We are eating salads on board tonight, then hopefully back on the water again tomorrow by 6:30 AM. We have another 60 mile trek tomorrow, but we will be in the bay, and we noticed today the water is already changing to the beautiful blue green….
Sun. 3-7-10
MM 1093
Grove Isla Marina, Miami
We were up and started off the dock, when to my horror, as Jon backed up, I noticed we still had a port bow line on. Now this is major faux pas (practicing my French). I yelled to Jon to pull back up to the dock, and I prepared to launch myself again in my famous pirouette off of the dock. I had a line in my hand, made my jump, my foot caught the edge of the rail, and down I went, chin first, (all 120 pounds of me – OK 125 pounds) smack on the cement dock. I saw stars, looked for teeth which luckily were still in mouth, and then rolled over to get up. At this point I did not realize my pocket had caught on the cleat and I about ripped my pants off of me. I am now the proud owner of a chin that is swollen to about the size of a golf ball, and is all back and blue. I finally got the line undone and off we went. I told Jon I was not sure I could move my jaw very much, his look of hopeful antcipation that this would be the case irritated me to the point I quickly regained full mobility and flapping of my jaws.
We did pretty well on our start expect the new alternator dropped in wattage, so we switched the power back to the other battery and the old alternator, and all was well.
We knew it was not a good idea to leave on a Sunday because #1, if we had any problems, there would be nothing available for help on a Sunday, and #2, we knew there would be allot of boat traffic. The other factor is the section we were going through had about 35 bridges. No surprises, no one obeyed the speed limit and no wakes zones, the boat traffic was worse than we thought, but no problems. We went about 60 miles today, and it took us 12 ½ hours. We finally arrived at the marina at 7:00 PM, exhausted and I have a booming jaw/headache. We are eating salads on board tonight, then hopefully back on the water again tomorrow by 6:30 AM. We have another 60 mile trek tomorrow, but we will be in the bay, and we noticed today the water is already changing to the beautiful blue green….
Luckily we have an ice maker on board for an ice pack - swelling finally down, but nice bruise ( for DA)
On the road again with lots of boat traffic
And lots of debris and coconuts in the water to try and avoid
Cruise ships in Ft Lauderdale
Just getting dark when we arrived in Miami
And off for an early start to Plantation Key
Monday, 3-8-10
MM 1163
Plantation Yacht Harbor - Plantation Key
Today was an excellent day, only marred by being really tired.
We went the same distance as we did yesterday, but with no bridges, slow wake zones, or boat traffic, we arrived at the marina at 3:00 PM instead of 7:00 PM. We got our boat chores done, ate on board, then walked around the area which is a huge municipal park. We watched a girl’s kickball game, a lacrosse game, and football practice.
Early to bed, early to rise tomorrow, we would love to make it to Marathon by around noontime !
MM 1163
Plantation Yacht Harbor - Plantation Key
Today was an excellent day, only marred by being really tired.
We went the same distance as we did yesterday, but with no bridges, slow wake zones, or boat traffic, we arrived at the marina at 3:00 PM instead of 7:00 PM. We got our boat chores done, ate on board, then walked around the area which is a huge municipal park. We watched a girl’s kickball game, a lacrosse game, and football practice.
Early to bed, early to rise tomorrow, we would love to make it to Marathon by around noontime !
Blue sky poking through as we leave Plantation Harbor
Wed., 3-10-10
MM 1193
Banana Bay Marina – We are here !!!
As we hoped for, we arrived at Banana Bay at 12:15 PM, and were greeted by the dockmaster – Billy, who had treats ready to give to Crew. We got the boat all set up, then walked around the marina to say hello to all of the people that were here last year, and met some really nice new people. Crew discovered two more boats that give out treats, I could see him already starting to plan his daily routine.
We went to our favorite restaurant, Hurricane’s for dinner, then went to bed early again – so happy to be finally in be Marathon !!
We got early this morning and took a long walk – trying to get those 10,000 steps in daily. On our return we stopped in the office where Crew met another friend of his from last year – and you guessed it – more treats. We then got our rental car that we have rented for out time here, and did a big shop for groceries etc…… We were invited to join a group from the marina that were going out on a dinghy safari, but we had not got that organized yet – a very fun group here this year.
I am doing laundry – again – a nap this afternoon – then joining the group for sundowners at sundown – life is good ;)
MM 1193
Banana Bay Marina – We are here !!!
As we hoped for, we arrived at Banana Bay at 12:15 PM, and were greeted by the dockmaster – Billy, who had treats ready to give to Crew. We got the boat all set up, then walked around the marina to say hello to all of the people that were here last year, and met some really nice new people. Crew discovered two more boats that give out treats, I could see him already starting to plan his daily routine.
We went to our favorite restaurant, Hurricane’s for dinner, then went to bed early again – so happy to be finally in be Marathon !!
We got early this morning and took a long walk – trying to get those 10,000 steps in daily. On our return we stopped in the office where Crew met another friend of his from last year – and you guessed it – more treats. We then got our rental car that we have rented for out time here, and did a big shop for groceries etc…… We were invited to join a group from the marina that were going out on a dinghy safari, but we had not got that organized yet – a very fun group here this year.
I am doing laundry – again – a nap this afternoon – then joining the group for sundowners at sundown – life is good ;)
View drinking AM coffee
Friday, 3-12-2010
So very busy – where do we go to eat ? What time should we go for a walk ? What time should we walk over for the sunset gathering ? What restaurant should we go to ? The list of demands is never ending here in Marathon………
So very busy – where do we go to eat ? What time should we go for a walk ? What time should we walk over for the sunset gathering ? What restaurant should we go to ? The list of demands is never ending here in Marathon………
Looking from stern to bow
The dining area - I wanted classic navy, but Jon insisted on the leopard motif ;)
Admiral's quarters - note the leopard sheets - Jon's idea again..
The galley - note the expensive box wine
The living room and yes, more leopard accents
Nightly gathering for sundowners at sundown
Sunday, 3-14-2010
OK – I am feeling just a tad guilty about saying it was Jon’s idea for the leopard theme on the boat, but not guilty enough to come right out and say it was really my idea – not that this would be a big surprise to anyone who knows us……
We just had a wonderful surprise delivery from a nice couple at our marina, Don and Patty, who made us beautiful wine glasses with our boat name, and our names engraved on them – our first official “Sundance” glasses ! We are becoming very “yachty” with our personalized hats from Jim and Kathy, and our embroidered hand towels and tote bag from Roz -
This weekend is the seafood festival here in Marathon – you know, one of those events loaded with beer and fried food, and you don’t feel guilty about drinking and eating it all because everyone else is doing it? They also had a craft fair and I cannot tell you how joy filled I am that we are now the proud owners of a fish made out of a coconut – yes life is good.
Crew thinks he has died and gone to doggy heaven – he has learned if he just struts around, lets people pet him, there is a fifty - fifty chance they will give him a treat. His other new found love is he has discovered many of the restaurants allow dogs, so as long as he is practicing his table manners, he is allowed to go out to the restaurants with us – he cannot get over that the waitresses bring him his own drink right to the table ! Again, he endures all of the attention and lets everyone pet him for an hour or two……
The weather has been what we consider perfect – high 60’s, sunny and breezy, so walking and bike riding are really enjoyable – well, as enjoyable as exercise can be, maybe the use of “enjoyable’ was a bit of a stretch.
The most amazing thing tonight at sunset, after all of these years, we finally saw the green flash - We have been watching and waiting all of these years, and finally - we saw it !!!!
Tonight’s dinner was on aboard and we had spaghetti, and the most amazing meatballs from Chef Beth - Jon actually suggested I might want to try to make meatballs that are as good as Beth’s – I suggested he should be very nice to Beth and maybe she will give him some more of hers !!!
Tomorrow Jon and I will be celebrating the day we met twenty years ago – OK – I know I like to celebrate just about anything and everything – but hey – why not ? Makes me all sentimental when I think about all the journey’s, experiences and friends we have made over the years……..
OK – I am feeling just a tad guilty about saying it was Jon’s idea for the leopard theme on the boat, but not guilty enough to come right out and say it was really my idea – not that this would be a big surprise to anyone who knows us……
We just had a wonderful surprise delivery from a nice couple at our marina, Don and Patty, who made us beautiful wine glasses with our boat name, and our names engraved on them – our first official “Sundance” glasses ! We are becoming very “yachty” with our personalized hats from Jim and Kathy, and our embroidered hand towels and tote bag from Roz -
This weekend is the seafood festival here in Marathon – you know, one of those events loaded with beer and fried food, and you don’t feel guilty about drinking and eating it all because everyone else is doing it? They also had a craft fair and I cannot tell you how joy filled I am that we are now the proud owners of a fish made out of a coconut – yes life is good.
Crew thinks he has died and gone to doggy heaven – he has learned if he just struts around, lets people pet him, there is a fifty - fifty chance they will give him a treat. His other new found love is he has discovered many of the restaurants allow dogs, so as long as he is practicing his table manners, he is allowed to go out to the restaurants with us – he cannot get over that the waitresses bring him his own drink right to the table ! Again, he endures all of the attention and lets everyone pet him for an hour or two……
The weather has been what we consider perfect – high 60’s, sunny and breezy, so walking and bike riding are really enjoyable – well, as enjoyable as exercise can be, maybe the use of “enjoyable’ was a bit of a stretch.
The most amazing thing tonight at sunset, after all of these years, we finally saw the green flash - We have been watching and waiting all of these years, and finally - we saw it !!!!
Tonight’s dinner was on aboard and we had spaghetti, and the most amazing meatballs from Chef Beth - Jon actually suggested I might want to try to make meatballs that are as good as Beth’s – I suggested he should be very nice to Beth and maybe she will give him some more of hers !!!
Tomorrow Jon and I will be celebrating the day we met twenty years ago – OK – I know I like to celebrate just about anything and everything – but hey – why not ? Makes me all sentimental when I think about all the journey’s, experiences and friends we have made over the years……..
Folks queing up at 10:30 AM for seafood
We opted to start with a healthy choice of barley and hops
We are now the proud owners of one of these fun coconut fishes
Crew demonstrating his restaurant manners
When I asked Crew what he had in his mouth - he tried to pretend there was nothing in there...
Thurs. 3-18-10
Boy, the less we do, the busier I feel………….
Crew is very excited that Billy the Dock master and his wife Gretchen gave him his own personalized mug that he can sue for his morning coffee, afternoon water, and evening beer. He thinks he is pretty special and I have to agree.
I think this trip become about socializing, eating out, and exploring – not a bad way to spend our time the Keys, and the simple things are fun and at time humorous – or at least to me. Take today for example. We went for a long walk, then decided to go to the Dockside for lunch – we entered the restaurant and there was this little yipping snapping jaws, tied to a chair, who began to bear his teeth and growl the minute we arrived. Crew was like, hey – you want to play – snapper did not want to play, he wanted a piece of Crew. We managed to divert Crew, and settled down to a nice lunch. After lunch, we exited the same way we entered, but Jon was distracted and not paying to attention to Snapper. So Snapper, all 20 pounds of him, fangs bared, hackles up, came charging at Crew again. Since Jon did not respond, I grabbed Crew’s leash, yanked it as hard as I could with a quick backward motion, and whop – right into Jon’s mouth with my backhand. I do not know which is worse, the bruise on the back of my hand, or Jon’s fat lip. You just know that I want to post a picture of Jon with the fat lip, but he won’t let me – uuggghhh……. Anyway, just a funny little episode.
We spent St Patricks Day at Hurricanes with Don and Patty, and are going to the No Name for pizza with Don and Patty tonight. Tomorrow night is a pot luck at the marina – see the theme here – eat, socialize – I’m aloving it !
Crew with his new "Crew" mug Likes his AM coffee in bed
Boy, the less we do, the busier I feel………….
Crew is very excited that Billy the Dock master and his wife Gretchen gave him his own personalized mug that he can sue for his morning coffee, afternoon water, and evening beer. He thinks he is pretty special and I have to agree.
I think this trip become about socializing, eating out, and exploring – not a bad way to spend our time the Keys, and the simple things are fun and at time humorous – or at least to me. Take today for example. We went for a long walk, then decided to go to the Dockside for lunch – we entered the restaurant and there was this little yipping snapping jaws, tied to a chair, who began to bear his teeth and growl the minute we arrived. Crew was like, hey – you want to play – snapper did not want to play, he wanted a piece of Crew. We managed to divert Crew, and settled down to a nice lunch. After lunch, we exited the same way we entered, but Jon was distracted and not paying to attention to Snapper. So Snapper, all 20 pounds of him, fangs bared, hackles up, came charging at Crew again. Since Jon did not respond, I grabbed Crew’s leash, yanked it as hard as I could with a quick backward motion, and whop – right into Jon’s mouth with my backhand. I do not know which is worse, the bruise on the back of my hand, or Jon’s fat lip. You just know that I want to post a picture of Jon with the fat lip, but he won’t let me – uuggghhh……. Anyway, just a funny little episode.
We spent St Patricks Day at Hurricanes with Don and Patty, and are going to the No Name for pizza with Don and Patty tonight. Tomorrow night is a pot luck at the marina – see the theme here – eat, socialize – I’m aloving it !
Crew with his new "Crew" mug Likes his AM coffee in bed
Crew with his new "Crew" mug - he likes his coffee in bed
His afternoon water on the front deck
But he loves his beer from his new mug