Destionation: Pine Island

Weather: Rain overnight; Temp range 66 – 70 (79o in the bubble!); wind NW 15 knots; overcast gives way to partly sunny sky

Comment: Since we're anchored near the Sea Ray plant, which begins operations at 0600, we hauled the anchor to the deck deck at 0700. Cereal and coffee underway.

Our destination is Pine Island. We motored past Fort Matansas, our planned destination yesterday, but the foul current didn’t allow us to make the needed distance.

We arrived at St. Augustine’s “Bridge of Lions” at exactly the correct time for the 1300 opening. As we approached the inlet, Joe throw over the hook. After a few casts, he hooked into a king mackerel. The fish was legal, but at only twelve inches, he decided to throw it back. A few miles past the inlet, we entered the Tolomato River and saw a pair of Bald Eagles. The overcast sky gave way to a partly sunny sky.

At 1400, we arrived at Pine Island and made the decision to press on to Jacksonville Beach and the Palm Cove Marina. We took a slip for the evening, had a great pasta dinner and walked to Starbuck’ for a nightcap.

Our hope is to make Cumberland Island for a beach walk tomorrow and Jekyll Island on Thursday.

Completing Another Trip Around the Sun!

Weather: The day started at 75o and bright. The temperature dropped throughout the day and the sunshine gave way to clouds and light fog. The wind started at <5 knots NNW and built to 16 knots from the same direction. It stayed around 15 knots for the rest of the day. IT brought a moderate chop to the waterway. We motored most of the day into the wind and against the current.

Comment: We left the dock with our new crew at 0950. We had a good time motoring past Ponce Inlet and Daytona. The current after Ponce Inlet turned against us as was the building wind. I steered the boat in the morning and Joe took over in the afternoon.

We anchored by the Cement Factory in the Palm Coast (MM 809.1) with another catamaran. As late afternoon turned into evening, we were joined in the anchorage by two other boats.

We enjoyed a barbequed pork loin, salad, and green beans and red peppers for dinner. After dinner, we began watching the movie, “After the Sunset.” We have to finish watching the movie tomorrow!

By the way, I completed my 60th trip around the sun today!

Unerway Again!

Weather: Bright and sunny all day; high 79o Low 65o; winds less than 10 knots north clocking to NNE as day progressed. We were able to motor sail at 8+ mph for a couple of hours.

Comment: Hey, we’re underway again! It feels great to be moving, but there is a certain melancholy since Shelley and Sandi and kids left for home yesterday. Sailing north on such a beautiful day will certainly ease the melancholy!

Our plan was to head over to the pump-out dock and be waiting for the operator when he opened shop at 0800. To accomplish this goal, we slipped our lines and put the engines in reverse at 0730. To spin the boat motor up the lagoon, I needed to put the port engine it forward while keeping the starboard engine in reverse. Only the port engine would not shift into forward. Once I got it into neutral, it wouldn’t shift back into reverse. We backed the length of our fairway and made our way to the pump-out dock.

The attendant couldn’t get the pump to work. He made several calls to the office and two other guys arrived to help. While this was going on, I lifted the helmet off the port engine and inspected the cables. All seemed to be in order. I reached the controls and slipped the engine into reverse. No problem! Then I shifted past neutral and into forward. No problem! The problem resolved itself? You know it’s going to reoccur don’t you?

Meanwhile, the guys got the pump working and by 0815, we shoved off, turned the boat with one motor in forward and the other in reverse. As we passed the Gibson Houseboat, we waved good bye to Bob and Cindy. They’ll be heading north on Monday.

As planned, we made to 0830 opening of the Route 3 Bascule Bridge and motored out the canal toward the Indian River. Once there, we turned north, and in the company of “Serenity” (they left the same marina to make the bridge opening), we motored and at times motored sailed through the northern stretches of the Indian River, the Haulover Canal and Bascule Bridge, the Mosquito Lagoon, the southern portion of the Halifax River and into New Smyrna Beach.

We arranged for a tie up at the NSB City Marina to pock up Joe and Dee Fritz who have signed on as crew for a few days. Being such a lovely evening, we decided to stay tied up the a “T” head for the evening. We strolled through the town and had a great steak, fresh asparagus, and salad dinner on the boat.

We talked for hours and finally hit the sack at 0130.

A Whirlwind Week!

Saturday, March 22, 2008 Day 162
Harbortown Canaveral Marina Merritt Island, FL MM 893.6

Shelley and Sandi and the five grandchildren arrived (the CREW).

Sunday, March 23, 2008 Day 163
Magic Kingdom

We started our Disney World adventure at the Magic Kingdom. The crowd was huge and each ride/attraction had a line that was at least one hour long! We used the “Fast Pass” for a couple of them.

On the day, we went to the following attractions:

• Swiss Family Robinson Tree House
• Enchanted Tiki Room
• Jungle Cruise
• Visited Tom Sawyer Island
• Country Bear Jamboree
• Visited the hall of Presidents
• Walt Disney World Railraod
• Played at the Toontown playground
• Rode the Indy Cars
• Rode Tommorowland Transit Authority (Mag Lev)
• Met Mickey Mouse
• Saw a parade
• Watched the fireworks from the ferry boat
• Bought Souvenirs
  

Collectively, it was the kids’ “Best Day Ever!”

Monday, March 24, 2008 Day 164
Magic Kingdom

We think there are more people here than yesterday, if that’s possible. The lines were very long and spilled out into the streets. It seems that the park can’t handle the mob. There are just too many people. It’s a chore for the kids to “hold hands” but it seems way too risky to let them go!

Today we did the following attractions:

• Pirates of the Caribbean
• Indy Race cars
• Stitch’s Great Escape
• It’s A Small World
• Rode Tommorowland Transit Authority (Mag Lev)
• Saw the Light Parade
• Watched the fireworks from outside the “Winnie the Poo” Ride (Geoffrey was so amazed he couldn’t contain himself (in a good way))
• Peter Pan’s Flight
• Mickey’s PhilharMagic Show
• The Many Adventures of Winnie the Poo
• Mickey’s Country Home
• Snow Whites Scary Adventures
• Cinderella’s Carrousel
• Carousel of Progress
• Bought Souvenirs

Tuesday, March 25, 2008 Day 165
Animal Kingdom

The Animal Kingdom is crowded, but not nearly as crowded as the Magic Kingdom. Today we did the following attractions:

• Lion King Show
• Finding Nemo Musical
• Watched the parade
  
  Collectively, it was the kids’ “Best Day Ever!”

Wednesday, March 26, 2008 Day 166
Disney’s Hollywood Studios

We split up today – (Girls one way and boys the other). We did the following attractions:

• Car Stunt Show
• Indiana Jones Stunt Show
• Honey I shrunk the Kids Playground
• Voyage of the Little Mermaid
• Magic of Disney Animation
• Playhouse Disney Live on Stage
• Beauty and the Beast
• Winter/Summerland Mini Golf

Collectively, it was the kids’ “Best Day Ever!”

Thursday, March 27, 2008 Day 167
Kennedy Space Center

Today promised to be a less hectic day. The Space Center is only six miles from the marina. The kids met a character actor astronaut and had their pictures taken with him. We also got shots of them “orange space suits,” Geoffrey and Sandi did the “Shuttle Launch Experience,” and then Geoffrey and I did it. We all visited the Shuttle Explorer.

We participated in the interactive space display “Exploration in the new Millennium” and saw a 3-D Imax Movie about landing on the moon.

While dining in the MILA Diner, the kids were required to report on the “three things they learned at the space center.” They all learned more that required, so they earned the opportunity to make three purchases at the Souvenir Store.

We went to dinner at Beef O’Brady’s in Cocoa Beach.

Friday, March 28, 2008 Day 168
Good Bye, Disney Crew!

Weather: Temp range – mid 60’s to 80o; bright and sunny all day; light wind in the marina

Comment: As usual, things start moving slowly at around 0800. By 0930, we were having “Dunkin Donuts” at the picnic table. The kids played a bit, ran around, and tested the pool water temp before helping gather their belongings. By 1100, good-byes were exchanged and they were off for the long ride to Sandi’s House in Myrtle Beach.

We cleaned the boat and made ready for our next crew, Joe and Dee Fritz who will join us tomorrow in New Smyrna.

Harbortown Merritt Island

Weather: Mostly sunny; High 78o Low 65o; Still windy, but calm in the evening;

Comment: Anna Marie did the laundry today and, as usual, made some new friends. These folks (Bob and Cindy) have traveled from Crisfield, MD in their Gibson 52’ Houseboat, “Our Sanity.” They gave her a card while in the laundry room and we paid them a visit to give them one of ours. They invited us aboard and showed Anna Marie around. She was overwhelmed by the amount of storage. Bob told me he burns one gallon of fuel per mile traveled. Their traveling speed is 8 knots. You do the math! They would have liked to have gone all the way to the Keys, but fuel prices being what they are, they decided to only go as far south as Stuart about 100 miles south of here).

When we arrived at the marina last night, the office was closed. We tried to plug into the electric box and found they only have 50 amp outlets on the dock. We have a 30 amp chord and the ends do not align with the 50 amp receptacle.

This morning, we borrowed an adapter from the office. When I made all of the connections, we had some power, but the battery charger and one of the outlet circuits were not working. I took some things apart, but all seemed in order. For some reason, it dawned on me that there may be bad connections. I got out the WD-40 when a neighbor offered to let me use his can of CRC-Electrical Grease. Between the two of us, we greased all of the connections from the electric head to the boat receptacle. This time, when I powered up, all systems were go! A most successful project and the CRC-Electrical Grease seems to be a great product.

I worked on the internet and the logs while Anna Marie was having fun in the laundry. We walked the marina complex. There are a lot of boats for sale; many are older vintage power boats. I also took the time to make more storage by carefully removing the top of the step in our stateroom. It is now a removable top and we have an out of the way home for our shoes.

Regarding our meals, breakfast was typical. We had cereal with milk. We are out of regular milk, so we’re into our stash of Parmalat milk. When stored before opening, it does not need to be refrigerated. We throw it in the refrige before we use it to chill it down because we like our cereal with COLD milk. When we’re out of lunch meats or just plain tired of sandwiches, we lunch on soup. For dinner we had pasta with a white clam sauce and just the right amount of garlic and parmesan. It is one of our favorite quick meals. It will be a staple on our Bahamas adventure. We’ll alternate the white clam sauce with a fra diavlo or vodka sauce and a can of crab meat. These items store well and taste great.

Underway!

Weather: Overcast most of the day; showers in the morning; heavy downpour with 27 knot winds in the morning; temp range 68o – 79o in the bubble. Winds were 15 20 with gusts 30 knots out of the south and clocked throughout the day. They ended up at NNE.

Comment: We were up early today to get underway by first light. Our plan is to use as much of the south and southwest wind as possible and get a good way up river before the winds change to the north.

We were riding with the jib out and making between 8 and 9 mph. At 1000, the wind clocked to the northeast. That a a very angry looking dark cloud caused us to roll the jib in at 1000, Seconds after doing so, we were hammered with a 26 knots gust. We were in a blow that lasted about 15 minutes before it dropped back into the high teens.

During the day, we heard vhf radio traffic from “Tar Heel,” “Carolina,” “Royal Serf,” and “Pamonetti.” They were all heading to Titusville for the night. To a person, they were worried about anchoring in the 20 knot wind and bouncing at anchor all night. They were going to put up with the “snot” so they could try for the Palm Coast tomorrow. That seemed pretty ambitious to us. We were on our way to the Canaveral Barge Canal where we have reserved a slip for the week. We’re getting ready for Disney World!

Our only problem for the day was the Route 3 Bascule Bridge located on the barge canal about one mile before the marina. It is restricted from opening between the hours of 1500 and 1759. We arrived at 1620 so we had to tread water for an hour and a half. We did so with out problem, although it seems the engines are idling rough and have a tendency to stall while at idle. We haven’t had this problem since the first day of the trip, but it’s been a concern since we left Marathon. We had the engines serviced when we were in Marathon and I wonder if the new plugs were gapped properly. We’ll check it out while we are here if we can.

We arrived in the marina at 1830 and tied up to slip D-4. We took our time in getting the bow and spring lines just right. We’ll need to borrow a 50 adapter as the docks have no 30 amp service.
Shelley called to tell us she’s been stuck in traffic for a while. She was thinking about driving straight through to Sandi’s (in Mrytle Beach) but the traffic might cause her to change her mind.

Bus Transportation and Hot Water

Weather: Mostly sunny; 72 – 88 degrees; wind south 20 – 25 knots gusts to 35; light chop in the harbor.

Comment: We’re up early for errands! We skipped breakfast so we wouldn’t be late for the 0800 bus which we rode to the Pocahontas Transfer Station. We boarded Bus 11 to take care of our first piece of business after which we rode Bus 3 back to the Transfer Station. We then boarded Bus 2 for a ride to the mall where we took a break at Starbucks. We walked around the mall and bought some items at the Disney Store in preparation for the arrival of the grandkids.

Then we walked to Target where we boarded Bus 2 for the ride back to the Transfer Station where we boarded Bus 1 for the ride back to the marina and the boat.

Maria from Excel America returned my call. I haven’t been receiving her e-mails and still didn’t know what address to send the water heater to. We dismounted it yesterday so it would be ready for shipping. Well, Maria called and gave us the address and we headed off to the Pak Mail store with the water heater. They packaged the unit and said it would be at its destination by Friday or Monday at the latest.

We’re having them return the unit to Sandi’s Myrtle Beach address because we’re not sure where we’ll be when they ship it back to us.

We had dinner aboard. It was another experimental meal of sorts. Zatarain’s Red Beans and Rice (with Johnsonville Brats added). We like all of the Zatarain products that we’ve had, although red beans and rice is new to us and we think the Johnsonville Brats are great. This meal was a hit and Zatarain’s products and Johnsonville Brats will be aboard in quantity when we make the trip to the islands.

"Doubt"

Weather: Overcast most of the day although the solar panel set a record for the maximum amps to date of 7.15 so we had some sun! Temp range was 72o – 88o; winds continue to be strong out of the south at 20 – 25 knots.

Comment: Today is a good day for chillin’! We hung out on the boat and worked on the logs and the internet (we signed on to YachtSpots for a week).

It was late afternoon by the time we got off the boat. After dinner, we walked to the Riverside Theater anticipating another evening of live theater. “Doubt: A Parable” was playing. In his “notes from the Director,” Allen D. Cornell states, “ Not often do we get to tackle a script that confounds our reasoning on so many levels. The delicate balance between conviction and uncertainty is a daily struggle for peace of mind. Truth is in the eye of the believer. Our personal truths are comforting. What happens when the truth is challenged – when the very foundation a truth is built upon is undermined by vague perceptions and unsubstantiated allegations? Doubt creeps out and our world is veiled in shadows that never recede. Doubt is a good thing. Doubt forces us to examine our perceptions from as many different angles as our strained conscience can endure. Ultimately, learning to accept that perhaps there is no last word is the true value of doubt. Perhaps…”

The play takes place in a Catholic School in 1964. The Mother Superior (Sr. Aloysius) and eighth grade teacher Sr. James suspect Father Flynn is having an inappropriate relationship with the schools only African-American student but there is no hard evidence. The child’s mother is approached by Sr. Aloysius. The hierarchy of the 1964 Catholic church and the mores of the time confound resolution to the situation.

This play, by John Patrick Shanley was the winner of the 2005 Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award. We can see why. If you ever have the opportunity, it is very worthy of your time.

After the play, we participated in the “Talkback.” The stage manager and the actors joined the audience to answer questions and participate in a discussion of the play. Anna Marie and I were intrigued with several aspects of the play and had several questions for the actors. It was a great opportunity to talk to actors about their craft.

We had a terrific evening!

DODGERTOWN

Weather: Most interestingly, the sky sported several Kelly green clouds. We wondered what caused that unusual phenomenon. The temp range was a delightful 70o – 78o; it was mostly sunny (except for those occasional pesky green clouds); the wind was out of the east at 15 to 20 (higher gusts) knots.

Comment: A couple of days ago, we discovered that the Los Angeles Dodgers conducted spring training in Vero Beach. We had no idea. Furthermore, after 60 years, we saw a report that the Dodgers are leaving town. Next year, they should open their spring training facilities in Arizona. Then we learned that today, Monday, March 17 was to be the Dodgers last spring training game in “Dodgertown.” Articles abound in the newspapers (and no official will confirm) that the Baltimore Orioles will occupy the facilities next spring.

We thought it most appropriate to pay a visit to “Dodgertown” for this last Dodger game. To do that, we boarded the bus (route 1) and traveled to the transfer station where we boarded bus 8. In a little over 45 minutes, we arrived at the ball park. Ten thousand fans were expected. We were there an hour before the game anticipating a sell out. As we walked into the grounds, we observed several scalpers further underscoring our perception that legitimate tickets might be scarce. We walked up to the ticket booth and were able to purchase ($36.00) two seats just to the left of home plate!

Everyone was wearing Dodger GREEN? After all, it is St. Patty’s Day! Even the Dodgers wore green caps.

We checked out the souvenir stand and made our way to the security checkpoint without making a purchase. Once inside the stadium, we purchased a “Bleed Dodger Blue” Yearbook ($6.00). We could have purchased a score card, but it has been so long since I scored a game, I’m not sure I’d remember how to do it.

On the way to our seats, we purchased Dodger Dogs and drinks and a pretzel ($24.00). Our seats were terrific – just to the third base side of home plate and about 15 rows from the field. We downed our dogs while watching major league players sign autographs as the ground crew lined field and wetted down the infield.

The crowd started cheering in earnest when Tommy Lasorda walked onto the field, entering from right field. He walked down the foul line to the visitors’ dugout where he hugged one of the Houston Astro players. They chatted few moments before he continued his journey to the home bench, waving at the crowd and acknowledging their cheers along the way.

At the entrance to the home bench, Lasorda got into a protracted conversation with non-other than Hall of Fame Dodger Pitcher Karl Erskine! What a scene!! There were photographers and media snapping away for several minutes. A guy with a boom mike dangled it over their heads apparently trying to capture bits of their conversation.

The ceremonies included the proverbial first pitch by a Florida congressman. When introduce to the crowd, Tommy Lasorda was the recipient of a protracted standing ovation. He suggested that the fans wanted “to see me cry.”

Tommy took to the microphone to say a few words of farewell to the Vero Beach faithful. He thanked them for sixty years of support and mentioned how great it was to see the town develop over those years. He offered that even though the Dodgers are leaving, they can’t take away sixty years of memories. Those memories will live on in the minds of all who have visited the stadium.

Lasorda’s final words were very typical for the man who “bleeds Dodger Blue.” He said to the fans, who were listening as if he was their third grade teacher, “Just remember, if you don’t pull for the Dodgers, you just might not get into Heaven!” After another lengthy ovation, he went back to the dugout. As it happens, he has managed the last six games in Dodgertown including this one.

All that was left was for the game to begin was the playing of the National Anthem and the command to “Play Ball.” Hall of Famer Karl Erskine took the field and played the National Anthem on his harmonica. What a treat this was!

Even though it was a good contest between the Dodgers and the Astros, the game was anticlimactic. Several homers were hit by both clubs and there were good plays in the field, some stolen bases and even a pickoff that should have worked had the short stop not botched the throw from the first baseman.

It was great to see Philadelphia favorite Larry Bowa who is now the Dodgers third base coach.

We had a great time and sadly, because of the bus schedule, we couldn’t stay for the whole game. We left after the seventh inning with the Astros leading 10 – 6.

We consumed another experimental meal this evening. Tuna Helper Tetrazzini was a smash hit. Add tuna and heat in a skillet. We both liked the meal very much. It mad our “A” list!

A Visit From More Friends!

Weather: Mostly sunny, hot and humid; temp range 70 – 88o; NE @ 15 – 20 knots

Comment: After breakfast we went ashore for a romantic walk on the beach. Our walk started at the north end of the boardwalk and we walked south on the beach for about a mile. We exited the beach at Hummiston Park to view an art show that featured the work of local artists.

After viewing some very nice paintings and sculptures, we walked back to the marina to await the arrival of more friends.

At about 1215, we participated in a reunion of the “Flock” that traveled south last fall. Actually, this was a reunion of 3/5ths of the flock. The other 2/5ths are in the Miami area and headed for Fort Lauderdale where they hope to jump off for the Bahamas.

Our contingent consisted of Larry and Fran (Kallista) and Dave (Canvasback Too). They met us at the marina. Dave got a tip that the Driftwood Resort on the Beach would be a good place to have lunch. We all decided to hoof it to the beach. The Driftwood’s restaurant is Waldo’s. The food was good, but not nearly as good as the company or the conversation. We thoroughly enjoyed catching up wit the experiences of Dave and Fran and Larry. They’ve had most interesting winters. Of course, we had some “Marathon” stories to tell.

Dave finally made it to Ft. Pierce and liked it so much, he stayed for the winter. In fact, he has signed on for another month. He’ll be leaving near the end of April for the trip back north.

Larry and Fran will be departing Ft. Pierce on or about April 1 for their trip home. They have a deadline to meet so they don’t intend to dally as they travel northbound.

We expect that we may see them along the way and may even have the opportunity to travel with them a bit.

Great Friends

Weather: Hot! temp range 70 – 88o; SW @ 10 – 20 knots; Very humid; mostly sunny

Comment: Great News – we’re having breakfast with our great friends Pat and George. Since they moved to Pennsylvania, we don’t get to see them nearly enough! We enjoyed catching up on their activities while eating at a nice little restaurant on the beach. Following breakfast, we went to the Indian River County library to update logs but we couldn’t get connected.

After bidding farewell to our friends, Anna Marie and I walked back to the ocean and walked the length of the boardwalk two times (about ¾ mile) and then followed the sidewalk to town where we strolled the shopping district, stopped to sip a sarsaparilla and continued our walk back to the marina. All told we probably walked about four miles.

We scored tickets to “Smokey Joe’s Café” at the Riverside Theatre complex. In addition to the main stage, this complex boasts an intimate theatre where another play is running and a children’s theater.

“Smokey Joe’s Café” was a fun production featuring the songs of Leiber and Stoller (Charlie Brown, Yakety Yak, Dance with Me, Kansas City, On Broadway, Hound Dog, There Goes My Baby, Love Potion #9, Jailhouse Rock, Stand By Me, among others).

Our experimental meal of the night was an off brand Chicken and Dumplings. It was passable at best. We both thought it tasted like an MRE (Meals Ready to Eat - the new version of K-Rations). We could use this meal as a diversion, but it won’t be a mainstay of our provisioning.

Making Way to Vero Beach

Weather: We awoke to another beautiful day! Although dark at 0730, it was clear and cool (59o). Dew covered everything. It looked as though it had rained during the night, but such was not the case. The wind was calm. The sun rose brilliantly in the east and there were few clouds. The temp reached 77o and visibility was fabulous. The wind eventually filled in from the west, clocked to the NW then N, and built to about 15 knots. The ICW was mostly flat except for the light chop that developed in the 15 knot wind. At about 1500 hours, it began to cloud over an just after we attached to mooring #1, we had a rain shower. The shower didn’t last long, but the clouds remained.

Comment: At 0630, its dark, but we are up and attending to boat chores (check engine oil levels, wipe dew from the dodger, etc.)

0725 “Sans Souci” is hauling anchor, Thom Cat has left the anchorage. Its engines on and anchor up.

0800 We’re at our first bridge for the day (PGA Bascule Bridge), “Sans Souci” is tagging along; we’ll be going through the bridges together.

NOTE: We are making good time despite the bridges. As we passed Jupiter Inlet, we noticed a woman walking along the mud flats. She appeared to be calling a dog, but there was none in sight. Around the bend, we saw the dog. He was swimming away from the woman who appeared unfazed by this fact. The dog reached a san bar that runs parallel to the ICW and for at least the next quarter mile, he ran, jumped, spun around in circles and had a good old time. Eventually, the dog turned and started running toward the woman who by this time, was over a quarter mile away!

By 1100 hours, we are navigating Hobe Sound, a narrow but picturesque body of water. The east side is lined with gorgeous homes and the west side appears to be natural. One can see only hints that US 1 is just beyond the vegetation.

At 1227 hours, we have arrived at the “Crossroads.” This is the junction of the St. Lucie River and St. Lucie Inlet. A turn west would take us to the Okeechobee Waterway and ultimately the west coast of Florida. A turn to the east leads to the Big Pond. The ICW runs north and south. We continued our northbound journey.

Once into some open water, the jib is rolled out and we are having a delightful experience motor sailing.

By 1330 hours, we have arrived at the turning mark for Nettles Island... but it’s early and we are making 8.5 mph. We apologize to the Emmens, but we just can’t stop! Perhaps we can hook up during the summer?

Along the way, we heard Dave from “Canvasback Too” over the VHF. We tried relentlessly to hail him to no avail. He was one of the “original” flock and we haven’t seen him since Oriental!

Ron (Sans Souci) called to say he was peeling off to get fuel and stop for the night in Fort Pierce. We bid him adieu. We enjoyed having him as a traveling companion for two days and as a guest for dinner. Perhaps we’ll see him along the waterway.

NOTE: While motor sailing, we hit speeds of 9.5 mph. It was a great day!

At 1600 hours, the wind picked up to about 15 knots and there are white caps on the Indian River. We’re still motor sailing at speeds in excess of 8.5 mph.

At 1725 hours, engines are off @ the Vero Beach Fuel Dock. We’ve been assigned to Mooring Ball #1. Surprisingly, the harbor is full and boats are rafted, but not us, yet.

After settling in, Anna Maria phoned Fran and Larry (Kallista) and Pat and Ray (Reflection) to see how everyone is doing. Fran and Larry will stop by in a day or two. It’ll be great to see them. Pat and Ray, Vanessa and Andres (Tally Ho) and Joe and Sigi (Sigi 7) are leaving Marathon in a day or two. They’ll all meet in Ft. Lauderdale and jump off the the Abacos with the first weather window. I am envious!

Tonight’s experimental meal is Betty Crocker’s Cheesey Beef Tacos. We don’t have taco shells, but the package has everything that is needed is in the box. Rice was included not taco shells. This meal was fair. We’re thinking once every three weeks or so.

NOTE: We called 37 bridge captains in the last three days (nine on March 12, a whopping twenty-one on the thirteenth, and seven on the fourteenth).

Heading North

Weather: Beautiful! Although, we can already tell that we are getting up into the higher latitudes. The temperature was cool. We started the morning out at 59o and the high reached 77o. Winds were generally less than 10 knots out of the north northeast. The day was mostly sunny. The clouds that we saw were over the ocean and the mainland and didn’t cast any shadows on us for most of the day.

Comment: 0700 We're up... and apprehensive about pulling away from the dock. The wind is on our beam and is blowing around 10 knots. The current is running out (on our bows). We released the spring and stern lines then Anna Marie released the bow line and pulled it onboard. We pushed off the dock, and with the starboard engine in reverse and the port engine in forward, to presented the bows to the current. Gently as you please the bows swung out and pointed downstream.

At 0800 we stopped for gas at Bahia Mar Yachting Center (Ft’ Lauderdale). Remember that line in the old Beverly Hillbillies TV show, “Oil that is, black gold, Texas Tea?” I don’t know about Texas Tea, but at $5.55 per gallon, “GOLD” is an apt descriptor.

As we traveled through Fort Lauderdale, we once again marveled at the huge boats and houses, all exquisitely landscaped and maintained. It is incredible.

Along the way, we passed a sailboat that appeared to be drifting in the waterway. We didn’t see an anchor line and, although it was within about 15 feet of a dock, it didn’t appear to be tied to the dock. Its name was “Sans Souci.”About one half hour after passing this vessel, we approached a bridge and hailed the bridge captain regarding the next opening. Just before the bridge was about to open, “Sans Souci” hailed the bridge captain and to request passage as well. (NOTE: We later discovered that the captain had sailed non-stop for 50 hours from the islands. While waiting for the bridge, he just "crashed" for an hour or so. I'm not sure why he thought it OK to just drift in the narrow ICW channel while he slept.)

For two more bridges, “Sans Souci’s” captain would hail the bridge after us. After passing the third bridge, I hailed said captain, introduced myself and Anna Marie and observed that we would be traveling together for much of the day (we had 21 bridges to contend with). The captain offered that he was just returning from the Turks and Caicos and hadn’t slept for two days. If we didn’t mind, he would follow along. Fine with us!

As we motored up the waterway, we caught up with another boat that started the day with us. A little trawler named “L’Escargot.” He was able to shot ahead because his air draft didn’t require all of the bridges to be opened. We eventually caught up with him when he had to wait for the bridges that he couldn’t clear. We traveled the rest of the day with him as well.

Our friends Pat and Ray might get a kick out of knowing that this little trawler is from Put-in-Bay, Ohio, home of Ray Fogg. If you’ve been following along, you might remember the story about the “Ray Fogg” show at the Dockside. Ray too hailed from Put-in-Bay, Oh.

At around 1700, “Sans Souci” asked what our plans for the evening were. We offered that we planned to anchor in the North Palm Waterway. He wondered if we’d mind if he’d anchor in the same anchorage. “Fine with us,” we replied.

After setting the anchor, Anna Marie invited the captain of “Sans Souci” for dinner. He graciously accepted offering that he was single-handing and would enjoy the company. He even offered to bring a chicken! We settled on pasta with meat sauce, one of the meals that will be a hit when we travel to the islands.

We had a fresh salad, whole wheat pasta with meat sauce and pudding for desert. Our guest, Ron, brought a bottle of wine. We had a pleasant conversation. He told us about his marriages and more importantly about the Exumas and Turks and Caicos and his adventures. He offered that single handing is a bit tough and he’d like to have some company. His wife has agreed to sail for six months but wants to spend six months at home.

Ron asked if we’d mind if he tagged along again tomorrow. Of course we didn’t and told him so. We’re hoping for Vero Beach but may stop at Nettles Island. He may stop at Ft. Pierce or continue to Vero too.

Post Script: We hailed “Thom Cat,” a PDQ motor vessel as he passed. We saw him tied to a mooring ball in Marathon but never had the opportunity to say hello. I thought it’d be appropriate to do so now and ask how he enjoyed his stay in Marathon. We talked on the radio for a bit. He offered that he too was heading to Vero Beach. His objective is to get there tomorrow as he doesn’t like to be on the waterway on the weekends. We agree whole heartedly! The waterway can be dicey when all of the gnats are out!

Los Olas and Riverwalk

Weather: Partly cloudy although we did enjoy periods of sun; temp range 70 – 85; wind was < 10 knots out of the west; it picked up a bit more in the afternoon when we were at the dock.
Comment: Early wake up call today! After washing the cobwebs from our eyes, we had breakfast. While Anna Marie tended to things inside the boat, I checked the engine oil levels. Both were A-OK.

0745 It's Anchor Up! We’re underway. We had a great view of Miami last night. It was as if the city was at our back door. This morning, the sun is just peeking over the horizon and the city is aglow with the first rays of light. It is a magnificent scene. As we motored past the city, we thought about the lives being lead in the high rise apartments and along the streets. We judge ourselves to be fortunate to be doing what we are doing.

We needed eight bridges to open for us today. All the bridge captains were more than courteous, they were downright generous. We were late for several be a minute or two, but all were raised. We weren’t made to wait ½ hour for the next opening.


There was significant container ship activity in Port Everglades. Containers were being loaded on some ships and off loaded on others. Only one cruise ship was in dock (there weren’t any in Miami). We watched as a tug helped a container ship parallel park between two other ships. There wasn’t much room for error.

As we made our way to Ft. Lauderdale, we observed more and even bigger mega-yachts than we did on our trip south. Many were of foreign registries flying flags of various Caribbean island countries.

At 1230 we turned off the ICW into the New River in Fort Lauderdale. We are heading up river to the municipal marina which is only a short walk to the Riverwalk.

At 1300 hours, we tied up at to the bulkhead of the marina. Actually, it isn’t a marina but about one thousand feet of bulkhead. There are no slips. We docked nicely as you please although the traffic, wind and current had us holding our collective breaths. As we navigated the relatively narrow New River, we were followed closely by a one hundred foot plus mega-yacht. We’d have preferred that he was first, but such was not the case and there wasn’t any passing room.



The marina office which is a block away from us. After attending to registration, we walked across the Andrews Avenue Bascule Bridge to the Riverwalk. We chose to have lunch at Briny’s Riverside Irish Pub. The Bangers and Mash were great! Anna Marie enjoyed a pulled Pork sandwich.

We walked the entire Riverwalk (about ten blocks) and then back to the boat where we watched an amazing amount of boat traffic in this little river in the heart of downtown Ft. Lauderdale. Boats of all sizes and shapes, from 100’ and greater mega-yachts to little dinghies went by. The water taxis run frequently and don’t mind throwing a wake; tour boats and river cruise boats run frequently. They’re on a schedule after all. We even watched as a diesel fuel boat headed up river, presumably to fuel one or more of the mega-yachts that live up there.

Beyond our dock, there are a series of small bascule bridges that mostly open on request, except for rush hour. The mega-yachts must negotiate all of them. It is quite a sight to see them lined up waiting for an opening. The river doesn’t look wide enough for inbound and outbound mega-yachts to pass each other, but looks are deceiving because it happened on more than one occasion!

The trip to Publix, for a loaf of bread, was about a four block round trip jaunt and not through a good section of town. Instead of walking this area in the twilight, the next time we'll do it earlier in the day when there is lots of light.

Back on the boat, we chilled for the rest of the evening.

P.S. We averaged 5.75 mph today – not too shabby considering that we had to negotiate eight bascule bridges!

Anchor Down: Hurricane Harbor, Key Biscayne

Weather: Most of the day was overcast, except that there were a few rays of sun on occasion. There were more clouds today than we have had all winter. The temperature range 74 – 78 degrees. The wind was out of the east northeast and clocked to the east and at the time we anchored was east southeast. The maximum apparent wind was 15.5 knots. True wind speed averaged about 12 knots, but dropped off substantially by 1800 hours. We had light showers several times today. We motored in light chop until the northern reaches of Biscayne Bay when the water became flat calm.

Comment: We were up at 0715, had breakfast and were underway at 0735. Our speed (6.25 mph) was much improved as compared to yesterday (5.0 mph) and allowed us a longer than usual run. We motor sailed for four and one-half hours and reached speeds of 8.3 mph with just the jib unfurled.

Yesterday was sort of a melancholy day for the captain, but today he is back in good spirits and looking forward to more adventures. Neither of us can wait to see our kids and grandkids in less than two weeks! Yipee!! We can’t wait. We’re keeping a tight rein on the budget so we can splurge with them (and Mickey Mouse)!

The trip from Lignumvitae to Key Biscayne was delightful despite the overcast sky. We saw several boats heading south and wondered if any were headed to Boot Key Harbor. As we motored past Tarpon Basin, our last anchorage before arriving at Boot Key Harbor back in January, we noticed another PDQ at anchor. She was too far away to read her name.

The autopilot did a fair amount of work today, giving the captain a break for hours at a time.

On the way to No Name Harbor, our cohsen destination, we passed Stiltsville and snapped this photo. I call it "Stiltsville in Blue." We planned to anchor in No Name Harbor… even had the anchor down. But it was crowded and the anchor didn’t set properly so it was hauled back on deck and we motored to an anchorage about a mile away and just outside of Hurricane Harbor. While in No Name Harbor, someone on a catamaran welcomed us back to the harbor. He soon realized that we are a different PDQ named SUNSHINE. I believe the Phil McGovern on his PDQ "Sunshine" was in the neighborhood. He may have even been the boat anchored in Tarpon Basin that we passed this morning.

We took this photo of Miami from our cockpit.

We Have Left the Harbor!

Weather: We had a mixed bag of weather today. The overnight temperature was in the low 70’s and it reached the high 70’s by the late afternoon. Although wind and showers were in the forecast, we stuck to our planned departure. Since we have been In the Keys, 15+ knots of wind has been a constant. Scattered showers have been widely scattered; usually somewhere other than Marathon.

The day started with an overcast sky. Sun made an appearance before noon when it became partly sunny. By mid afternoon, we enjoyed mostly sunny skies.

The wind was out of the east northeast, generally blowing between 12 and 15 knots. At times there was considerable chop on the waterway and, although there were periods with no whitecaps, generally speaking, they were the order of the day.

Comment: The captain was not looking forward to departing Marathon. It still seems early to leave and, were we doing the Bahamas, we’d be looking forward to many more new experiences. The day was made even more melancholy when we met our south bound tracks, made on January 9, 2008, and started retracing our southerly course. We’ll be covering no new ground for the rest of this trip!

The captain was up before 0700, but let the Admiral sleep. She awoke at 0730. We had our last bowl of cereal in Boot Key Harbor, and at 0805, fired up both engines. After letting them warm up for a few minutes we slipped our lines from mooring ball L-10 at 0815. We passed through the Boot Key Harbor Bascule Bridge at 0830 and by 0840, we were outside the harbor. At exactly 0913, we passed under the Seven Mile Bridge and turned to the northeast to begin our trip home.

The motors ran well all day and the boat took the moderate chop in the Gulf in stride. At 1600 hours, we affixed our lines to a mooring ball at Lignumvitae Key and settled in for the night. Now that it’s daylight savings time, we have several more hours of sunlight. We used the time for reading, showering and watching a nifty sunset.

We have provisioned the boat with six weeks worth of food, some fresh and some canned. Were we doing the Bahamas, we’d be eating three meals aboard every day, with only occasional meals out. Since provisioning is so expensive in the Bahamas, most cruisers load up here in the States before crossing. We are not crossing (this year), but we are attempting to gain experience with what kinds of foods to take when we do go.

Tonight’s meal was La Choy Sweet and Sour Chicken with Chow Mein Noodles. It passed muster, even though neither of us are huge fans of Chinese. It is quick and easy to prepare, low in calories and tasty. We expect that these kinds of canned Chinese meals can be enjoyed once a week in the Bahamas.

Final Departure Preparations

Weather: The weather station said it reached 53 degrees in Key West. On board, the temp stayed at 68 degrees all night. At 0800, the temp dropped to 67 degrees and no lower. Still, good evidence that this cold front actually brought cooler temperatures in addition o plenty of wind! The morning dawned bright and sunny with nary a cloud in the sky. According to the weather report, clouds are due to show up some time or another. Since the wind is out of the north, we are expecting a good day for the solar collector.

As luck would have it, by early afternoon, it clouded over so the solar panel wasn’t able to collect much energy today.

Comment: Our planned departure isn’t happening today. Even though the wind moderated in the early morning hours, we decided to postpone our departure until tomorrow. By this afternoon, the wind dropped to around 12 knots. It was once again relatively calm in the harbor.

After attending to departure preparations, we hoped into the dinghy for a trip to the water faucet and the Chevron gas station where we filled our water and gas jugs respectively. While returning Joe’s (Sigi 7) hat left on board sunshine a couple of days ago, we bid final farewells to Pat and Ray aboard “Reflection.” We hope they’ll be able to stop by the house on their car trip to Maine.

Back onboard SUNSHINE, we mounted the dinghy motor to the stern rail, hoisted the dinghy on the davits and tied it down tight. Everything is shipshape for an early morning departure.

Openning Day!

Weather: Isolated thunderstorms moved through last night signaling that a cold front would soon arrive. We had rain on and off overnight, but the temperature remained at 79 degrees. We awoke to a shower, the last one of the day as it turned out, and 25 knot winds (gusting to 30) out of the northeast. It most probably will blow for the next couple of days. We wait for the winds to subside a bit before we leave the harbor. The temp dropped through the low 70’s and into the 60’s during the day and ended in the high 50’s by 2200 hours. After the rain showers, we had periods of bright sun although there were clouds passing by most of the day.

Comment: Although this was to be our last full day in the harbor, we will wait for the cold front to move through and for the wind to subside. The day started out as usual (cereal for breakfast, listen to the cruisers’ net do a couple of boat chores and have lunch aboard).

Following lunch, we donned our foul weather gear, piled into the dinghy and set off for the marina. The ride wasn’t as wet as I had anticipated. We headed directly into the wind (due north) at a snails pace. Our objective was to get into the lee of the land in the shortest possible distance. Once we got to calmer water, we turned to starboard and picked our way through the shoals. Some thoughtful mariner has placed additional PVC pipe markers and affixed red triangles and green squares to clearly mark the safe way through the shoals. Very helpful!

Our first objective was the opening ceremony of the Marathon Little League Season. It seems that there are four minor and major league teams (the Phillies, Yankees, Red Sox, Marlins, and Braves were represented).

After the ceremony, we intended walk across the park to the amphitheater to see the Army Band. Alas, the weather caused the performance to be moved indoors to the high school. Not being exactly sure about the location of the H. S., we opted to stay at the ball park to watch the Yankees and the Red Sox do battle. It was a very entertaining game which the Yankees won; coming from 2 runs down, to win by a score of 6 to 5. It was great fun. While watching the game, we enjoyed a great frank and some peanuts! Just like the big show!!!

After the game, we hoofed it to the theater to see “Fool’s Gold.” It was a nice romantic comedy about treasure hunting - very appropriate subject matter for the Keys. Part of the story was to have taken place in Key West. Judging from the background mountains, it is safe to say that the film wasn’t shot in Key West.

The dinghy ride back to the boat was a “down wind” run and we made it back without getting wet.

Bon Voyage Dinner Guests

Weather: The wind picked up over night, blowing a steady 12 -15 knots out of the south (not good for the solar panel); the overnight temp was 77 degrees and the high for today was 85 degrees with plenty of sunshine. For the last week, we can really feel the heat of the sun as it makes its way to the northern hemisphere. The feeling is noticeably different that January and February!

Comment: Recall that last week, the water heater stopped working. After a couple of phone calls to the Manufacturer (Excel America), they agreed to send out a new electronic module. It was to be put in the mail on Tuesday, March 4. We were concerned that delivery might be after our departure. The module arrived on Wednesday, March 5! Great service to be sure!!

Before breakfast, I replaced the electronic controller for the water heater. It was a simple procedure to connect the plugs in the appropriate order and attach the ground. We flipped the appropriate switch on the electric panel and then flipped the solenoid switch to the “on” position and then opened the hot water faucet. Uh oh! No hot water, no sign of life. The module replacement was easy but it appears that the module is not the problem. More phone calls and investigations to follow.

After breakfast, Ray stopped by to pick me up for a trip to West Marine where I finally broke down and purchased a door knob to replace the broken one.

Back on board, we waited for the pump out boat and then I began to fashion some ideas to check the water heater for electronic or other problems and Anna Marie prepared to make a final laundry run to the Marathon Marina. Eventually, I was able to get ignition after reducing pressure in the line. I would appear that the problem is the pressure sensor that triggers the ignition sequence. One problem with that thought is that once ignited, the burner shuts down in less than a second. I have sent and e-mail and made a phone call to Excel America but have not heard back from them. Being the weekend, I don’t expect a response until Monday.

The rest of the chores went as follows: Anna Marie did the laundry while I removed some rust stains on the transoms and polished the stainless steel transom handrails, davits and the bars that hold the solar panel.

Anna Marie returned at 1600 hours and we began preparations for our “Bon Voyage” dinner. Pat and Ray (Reflection) and Sigi and Joe (Sigi VII) were to arrive in an hour. We enjoy their company very much and will miss them when we head out on Sunday (weather permitting). This was our chance to offer a formal good bye even though we’ll see them tomorrow at the Army Band Concert in the Park.

After conversation and cocktails (Sigi made her special Salmon dip that was most excellent!), I grilled a pork loin marinated in a portabella mushroom vinaigrette and a beef tenderloin marinated in a tequila lime sauce. The grilling gods were with me as both meats were cooked to perfection! Anna Marie sautéed mixed vegetables and we all sat down to a delicious meal. Pat offered a perfect salad complete with cranberries and apples, not to mention lettuce and other delights. The dressing provided a nice accent. It was perfect!

Following dinner, we sipped English Toffee Cappuccino and played several rounds of the Mexican Train Game. We had great fun. Pat proved to be the master of the game on this day.

We were graced with a very brief rain shower while playing the game. Hatches were closed and after the shower, the air became very heavy. We need more rain but the stars began to shine. Brief showers did eventually return but we’re still waiting for it to cool down. A cold front is supposed to move through overnight. Predicted high and low temperatures for tomorrow are 70 and 58 degrees. We’ll believe it when we see it. High winds are also predicted. We can believe that!

Shopping

Weather: Another hot one! Overnight temp was 77 degrees and the hot was a very muggy 85 degrees. Isolated thunderstorms were predicted, but, once again, they didn’t show up in Marathon! The wind was out of the south at about 10 knots. It felt much cooler on the boat than on land.

Comment: We have the rental car until 1700 hours. We were up at 0700 and off without breakfast or coffee. We stopped for a cup of brew at McDonalds and continued on as we weren’t hungry for breakfast.

The drive to Homestead was uneventful. I dropped Anna Marie off at the WalMart while I took care of business in town. My transaction went much quicker than anticipated, so I was able to get back to WalMart just in time to help with the shopping (Yippee!). We stocked up for several weeks, buying more than usual because we have transportation. In fact, we bought so much stuff that we had to make two trips in the dinghy to get it all to the boat.

On the way back to the boat, we stopped in the Key Largo Boater’s World where Anna Marie found a sale on shorts. I don’t have to tell you that she made a purchase or two. We then made our way to the Islamorada Fish Company for lunch and then to the World Wide Sportsman. We bought pants at that establishment.

We made it back to Marathon by 1600 and ferried the supplies to the boat. I returned the car by 1630 and the nice lady at Avis drove me back to the marina. After another dinghy ride, we were back aboard by 1715. The task of stowing all the supplies took hours and we needed several breaks to cool off.

We had leftover pizza for dinner and chilled for the rest of the evening.

It's an MTOA & No Name Day!

Weather: It’s a beautiful morning in the harbor. There is not a cloud in the sky although isolated thunderstorms are in the forecast for the third consecutive day. We haven’t seen any in that time, so they must be isolated elsewhere! It is 76 degrees at wake up time. The overnight low was 77 degrees. The SW wind is light

Comment: We begin the day as usual with a bowl of cereal and the cruisers net, accompanied by copious amounts of harbor watching. Before heading to today’s special event, we’ll do another fuel run, we probably need to get about 10 more gallons. That means two fuel runs on the day.

We’re having a special treat today. We are invited to the Marine Trawler Owners Association get together on Sombrero Beach. They have hot dogs and burgers and the fixings for $5.00/couple and we’ll bring a desert to share with the assembled throng.

Since we needed to go to the mainland before we leave Marathon, we decided to rent a car for this evening and tomorrow. Having the car enabled us to invite Pat and Ray for a trip to the “No Name Pub” on Big Pine Key. Before signing in at the pub (there’s always a long line) we drove over the bridge to “No Name Key,” where we were able to see the world famous Key Deer. They small, but not too much smaller than our “Pine Barren Goats” that live back home!

At the pub, after almost an hour and one-half wait, we saddled up to the table for some of their world famous pizza. We weren’t disappointed. The pizza at the Upper Crust in Marathon is almost as good but it is within walking distance of the marina. Future visits to the “No Name Pub” will be made if we have transportation or an offer of a ride.

By the time we returned to the boat, we were bushed!

Another Day in Paradise

Weather: Guess what? It was mostly sunny, again! S then SW Wind @ 15 knots diminishing to <10 knots just before sunset; It was calm in the harbor; Temp range 73 – 83.

Comment: It’s pump out day! We were up at 0730, had breakfast and waited for the net and the pump out boat. After the net and the pump out, we did some relaxing (what, no chores?). After lunch, we went to shore to do the chores. We made two trips to the fresh water hose and two trip to the gas station (5.5 gallons purchased each time). In between trips, Anna Marie walked to the Publix and Home Depot while I went back to the boat to siphon the fuel and water into the appropriate tanks. All tanks will be topped off when we leave. Departure is still planned for Sunday, March 9.

Theses “filling” chores took much of the afternoon. When we arrived back on the boat, Anna Marie used the computer to research some information about Disney World. She's particularly interested in finding out about breakfast/lunch with the princesses. Yesterday, she made reservations at Harbortown Canaveral Marina for Easter week. We’re gearing up for a visit from the kids and grandkids. We hope to do Disney and the Kennedy Space Center right!

I barbequed chicken for dinner. The American Classic rub was great. It had a tang something like jerk chicken.

We saluted the sunset with the conch shell, as did at least a dozen others. Sunset spectators could be seen on the bows of many boats in the harbor. The calm water and wind made for an idyllic sunset. Clouds on the horizon obscured the sun as it was setting. No green flash again!

Since the wind was out of the south for most of the day, the solar panel didn’t add much to the batteries, so it was on generator for almost three hours. We charge all our devices while the genny was running and we had the luxury of a extended period of Margaritaville listening pleasure. For the record, a south wind in and of itself isn't problem for the solar panel, but, the south wind makes the bow point south. Since the sun is south of us and the solar panel is mounted low on the stern, it is shaded by the bimini in a south wind. It's the shade that is the culprit!

Chores Again!

Weather: Mostly sunny but a few clouds were present, especially late in the afternoon and evening; Wind ESE @ 15 – 20 knots; light chop in the harbor; Temp range 74 – 84 degrees

Comment: Surprise, surprise, our day began as usual!

The solar panel has been converting a lot of sunlight to electrical energy so, since our we mounted the refrigeration water pump permanently; we activate it during the hours we are getting solar gain. It helps the refrigeration unit more efficiently and the solar panel provides enough “juice” so the pump doesn’t drain the house batteries.

After lunch, we went ashore. Anna Marie took care of the laundry while I filled the water tanks, the solar shower, and two gas containers. the chores sound simple enough and, in fact, they are, but not as simple as it sounds. Here's a rough account of the procedure:

• Anna Marie gathers the laundry, sorts and bags it for the dinghy ride. While I gather two 6 gallon water jugs stored in the starboard bow locker, three gas containers stored in the port bow locker and the solar shower which is stored in the head. Once our equipment is ready to go, we ----


• Lower the dinghy, climb aboard, transfer all of the laundry, jugs and containers from the mothership to the dinghy and then fire up the dinghy. Anna Marie then climbs aboard and we're off ----


• It's a 10 to 15 minute ride to the dinghy dock, depending on wind conditions. If we're lucky, we can find a space to tie up quickly. If not, it'll take a few minutes to find a place, kick some other boats out of the way and secure the dinghy.


• Anna Marie tracks down a cart so she doesn't have to carry the heavy laundry bags to the facility which is about 100 yards from the dinghy dock.


• After she leaves, I dinghy over to the potable water hose and fill both water jugs.


• Then it's back to the dinghy dock to tie up.


• I gather up the gas containers and walk one block to the gas station where I fill them and walk back. By the time I'm half way back, the jugs get very heavy and my arms are three inches linger than when I started.


• After loading the gas into the dink, I motor back to SUNSHINE and off load all the jugs. When filled, they're heavy. It's easiest to put them on the bow.


• After tying up the dinghy, I get on board, walk to the bow to get the jugs. I store the gas containers and empty the contents of the water jugs into the fresh water tanks. This process is good for about 30 minutes.


• Now it's back to the dinghy dock to pick up Anna Marie, who, if lucky, has finally secured a machine and might be three-quarters of the way finished with her detail.


• She folds and bags the laundry and then we climb aboard the dinghy and make our way back to SUNSHINE.


• All told, the entire operation can take between four and six hours.

During the course of the week, we are going to top off the tanks (water and gas) so they are full when we are ready to leave. Departure is tentatively scheduled for Sunday, March 9, weather permitting.

After chores, we went back to town and rode the rust buckets to K Mart and Home Depot. Our only purchase was a can of air. We use it to clean the computer keyboard and other electrical gear on the boat.

Being tired from the chores, Anna Marie suggested that we have a pizza. We’ve been doing really well budget wise, so pizza it is! We elected to have the deluxe pizza at the Upper Crust. It was great and we brought 1/2 back to the boat for lunch tomorrow.

We enjoyed great connectivity this evening. I was able to update the journal and add a bunch of photos.

We joined about a dozen other boats in the traditional Conch Horn Salute to the Sunset before retiring.

If Only We Could Relax!

Weather: Sunny most of the day; 15 knot N/NE wind; light in the harbor; temp range 70 – 80 degrees

Comment: The day started as usual (bowl of cereal, coffee/tea, Cruiser’s Net) after which it was time for more Boat Projects! We re-calked three windows, one hatch and the baby stay chain plate that leaked during the last storm. We’re not surprised by the need to re-calk. The bright sun and 80+ degree weather beating on the tinted Plexiglas causes a fair amount of expansion. The Plexiglas then contracts in the cooler evenings. It’s no wonder the seal breaks.

After our tasks were completed, we lounged on the forward nets, enjoying the warm sun and the cool breeze. It is fascinating to watch the comings and goings of boats, dinghys and kayaks. It is especially entertaining to watch new arrivals meander through the mooring fied and pick up their mooring pennant. Oh, the little joys in life! Following our relaxing interlude, we went back into the cabin where we read and/or played computer games.

Neither of us felt like making the trip ashore so we stayed aboard the whole day. At sunset, we blew the conch horn to salute the setting sun and then grilled a couple of steaks. With a side dish of corn-on-the-cob, we enjoyed a most delicious, leisurely meal.

Dinner was followed by work on the logs and some more reading before bedtime.

Arrrrgh!

Weather: Mostly sunny; still breezy N to NE @ 15 knots; temp range 70 – 80 degrees; light chop in the harbor

Comment: Arrrrrrgh! It’s Pirate Day at Pigeon Key. We met Pat and Ray for the bike ride to the Pigeon Key Visitors’ Center where we boarded the Paradise Dive boat for the “ferry” ride to the key. There were lots of pirates, swords, guns and muskets and cannon. We had a good lunch (choices were pig, cow or dog, soda, water or rum punch). One building had a nice collection of photos and artifacts from the construction of the Overseas Railroad. One room in the old house was set up as a theater of sorts and we watched a DVD tribute to Henry M. Flagler. The flick was made in the early 80’s and made Flagler out to be a hero, philanthropist and all around good guy. At one point the narrator claimed that he had mastered the “art of landfilling.” Who know filling in wet lands was an art?

Following the ride back to the boat, I finished reading about the first voyage of Christopher Columbus and its aftermath in all of Europe. I’m about to reread the chapters about his second voyage.

For dinner, we rode the dinghy to shore where we met Pat and Ray and Joe and Ziggy at the Chinese Restaurant. The food was very good and reasonably priced. Joe offered that this is his seventh trip to Marathon by boat and that he follows a routine. He visits the Chinese Restaurant once per trip and has always ordered the same meal. It was a delightful dinner with delightful friends.

Following dinner, Anna Marie and I walked to Publix to buy a few groceries. We walked back to the boat where we relaxed, tended to the logs and did some reading.