Our new toggles arrived today at noon (Yahoo!). This now put the pressure on us to get everything else done so we can finally make our escape tomorrow.
I did my final veggie run this morning and spent all afternoon washing and packing veggies carefully into the fridge. (Wash, soak in a mild bleach solution, air dry thoroughly, wrap each item carefully in a paper towel, and pack into a 'green bag'. Then try to find space to put it where it won't be too cold or too hot or next to something it doesn't agree with. See the Cruising Chef Cookbook).
I still have 3-4 piles of stuff drying on the table that need to be wrapped up and stored before we leave. (and there's no room left in the fridge :( Lets see, do we take the chocolate out, or Dave's tubes of 5200... hmmmm...
Also while on the veggie run, I stopped by the Post Office to mail a big box of miscellaneous stuff back home. The biggest thing in the box is an antique sextant that Dave picked up at a Flea Market, but the rest of the space is filled with souvenirs and stuff that we just don't have any place to store on the boat. I also mailed a backup hard drive to my daughter for safe-keeping. Should the worst happen on passage, at least we'd save the pictures!!
We sent the big box via old-style parcel post--it will go by boat from here and Pony Express to Florida--delivery takes 2-6 weeks. The small parcel went Priority Mail--the best deal for shipping stuff in Hawaii (UPS and FedEx are outrageous). For only $4.75 it should be in Cincinnati by Monday, and if you pay for your shipment online, you get a tracking number just like FedEx and UPS (see usps.com)
To add to the 'fun', while in the check-out line at the grocery store, I got a call on my cell phone from a nice lady in England who wants to rent our Melbourne Harbor Condo for two weeks in September. So part of the afternoon (amidst all the other things going on) I spent working up a rental contract, and trying to process a credit card payment from the UK for a deposit. Sheesh!!
Dave spent the afternoon stowing things on deck, and taking advantage of the last free running water we'll have in a long time. He filled the tanks and washed down the deck and cockpit.
Between the two of us, we generated another dock cart full of trash and giveaway stuff.
We are not taking our toaster or the coffee maker--they both went on the "Free Table" at the marina. As much as we both love the convenience, they are impractical items on an anchor-out energy budget. And they take up too much space, and get so seldom used when away from the dock, that we'll just do without. For me it's back to boiling water in the morning, and making my coffee in a coffee funnel with a paper filter sitting on top of the coffee cup.
Without a ready supply of bagels, Dave will live without the toaster (French baguettes are hard to fit into a toaster slot).
The microwave has again reverted to a "Faraday Cage" for our miscellaneous electronics (protection against lightning).
After posting on Facebook that we were leaving "within hours" we got calls from both kids (who rarely call us). Dave's son Chris and my daughter Nicki both called wanting to talk one last time before we go off the grid again.
We finally completed the deal on the car a few hours ago, turning the keys over to our buyer (who has been very patient--thank you Richard). We will really miss that car--5 big thumbs up for the Toyota Rav 4L (1997), a really nice sport utility vehicle.
Dave has said all week (jokingly) that we can't leave until the Royal Wedding is over... that may turn out to be true, but we packed our TV up today, so we won't be able to watch it!! (too busy anyway).
We'd like to get out early in the morning, but neither of us will be ready to leave before noon-ish. (Honestly, we'll probably be lucky to leave before dark).
Sailors have a superstition about leaving on Friday, but if we go on UTC time, we can leave early tomorrow afternoon and not be leaving on a Friday. (And, personally, I fail to see the logic in passing up a good weather window for a superstition... no matter how many sea stories I've heard about disasters caused by leaving on a Friday.)
Showing posts with label Hawaii. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Hawaii. Show all posts
Friday, April 29, 2011
Still Waiting for Parts
We did all the stuff we needed to do to get away yesterday, and were dismayed to find that our parts didn't make it here yesterday (it was a long shot, so we weren't that suprised).
We went down to the NOAA office at the University of Hawaii and got a personal weather briefing from the weather guys, and got a chance to ask a few questions about patterns and weather products. They were friendly and helpful, and interested in our trip. Looks like we have a nice window for departure for the next couple of days.
We also went down to U.S. Customs to get an official clearance paper. French Polynesia (we hear) doesn't need it, but you never know when you might end up somewhere else. $19 and 10 minutes of paperwork, and we have an official clearance out of the U.S.
We made a couple of more stops downtown at the usual places (City Mill, etc). One last thing on our list was an electronic rat zapper. We don't have rats, but it's always possible... Someone said that it's also good for 'B-52' type roaches (the big ones).
We also did our last laundry (gosh, I'm sure going to miss those washers and dryers!).
I was all set to go get our last round of Groceries (veggies, milk, eggs, and bread), but waved off on that when there were no parts in our mailbox.
So that's item number one on my list today.
We went down to the NOAA office at the University of Hawaii and got a personal weather briefing from the weather guys, and got a chance to ask a few questions about patterns and weather products. They were friendly and helpful, and interested in our trip. Looks like we have a nice window for departure for the next couple of days.
We also went down to U.S. Customs to get an official clearance paper. French Polynesia (we hear) doesn't need it, but you never know when you might end up somewhere else. $19 and 10 minutes of paperwork, and we have an official clearance out of the U.S.
We made a couple of more stops downtown at the usual places (City Mill, etc). One last thing on our list was an electronic rat zapper. We don't have rats, but it's always possible... Someone said that it's also good for 'B-52' type roaches (the big ones).
We also did our last laundry (gosh, I'm sure going to miss those washers and dryers!).
I was all set to go get our last round of Groceries (veggies, milk, eggs, and bread), but waved off on that when there were no parts in our mailbox.
So that's item number one on my list today.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Departure Wednesday or Thursday Maybe?
Sigh... we were aiming for leaving Monday (our revised revised schedule), but Dave went up the mast yesterday to replace the last of the 30-year-old rigging toggles, and found that the last 4 are a different size than the rest. So the new toggles we have won't work. He's called the machinist who made the new ones, and asked him to rush fabrication and shipping of the right size to us on Monday. Realistically that pushes our departure schedule out to Wednesday or Thursday.
Meanwhile, we are still working off the rest of our list. Here are just some of the things we've been doing in the last week:
- Took the propane stove out on the dock over to replace the thermocouple in the broiler, and give the stove and the stove area a thorough cleaning.
- Major rework on the Exhaust Riser (a key part of the engine) to repair a leak and to engineer the new one to reduce the source of the leaks
- Checked the underwater surfaces. We didn't need to do any scrubbing--the new paint we put on in January looks great. We have just a little slime which rubs off easily. We'll let the water movement (assuming we get going soon!) take care of that. The prop has been 'bagged' and so has no growth on it.
- Repacked the V-berth, stowing the foredeck awning, the kayaks, and the folding bikes, as well as 4 Rubbermaid tubs of food, miscellaneous spares, and 'trade goods'.
- Completed a full rigging inspection, from the top of the mast to the bottom of the chainplates
- Renewed the spreader anti-chafe boots
- Added a new cleat in the cockpit to make it easier to handle 2 roller furlers at once.
- Finished and rigged up lifeline 'spray guards' to help keep the cockpit dry
- Paid a visit to the local life-raft repacker, who is making expired SOLAS flare available to cruisers for free (these normally cost $75-$100 EACH)
- Reviewed our 3 'Abandon Ship' bags, checking the GPS and VHF, updating the batteries and flares, and refreshing ourselves on what's in there (and what's not).
- Had 2 long Skype calls with a friend who just spent the winter diving in the Marshall Islands--taking notes for our future adventures
- Multiple trips to West Marine, POP Marine, City Mill, Home Depot, Walmart, Kmart, Costco and Grocery Stores for parts, supplies, food, etc
- Stowed all the stuff we bought and made enough notes on the computer so we have a chance of finding it again. I've opted NOT to make a detailed food stores list this time (too time-consuming to do accurately and too much effort to keep it accurate as we use up stuff). We do keep fairly accurate 'spares' lists, though, especially for the deep dark spaces that are hard to get to.
- Unloaded the last of the 'stuff' out of the car and stowed it onboard, so the car is ready to turn over to the new owner.
- Installed the new wind sensor on our weather station
- Tightened jib track bolts
- Picked up some spares at West Marine for friends already in French Polynesia
- De-installed and shipped our old AIS receiver to the new owner.
- Dave is still working with the guy we sold the old refer equipment to--advising him on installation issues
- Money management--getting bills prepaid, credit cards paid off, making sure there's enough in the bank account to cover expenses for up to 2 months of no-internet
- Ongoing management of real estate issues back in Florida
- Arranged an agent to facilitate our check-in in French Polynesia
- Ongoing gathering of weather and routing information, planning the trip, and navigation strategies. This leg will be 2,000 mostly hard on the wind (ie wet and bumpy for 2-3 weeks).
- Ongoing twice-daily radio contacts with our friends already at sea
Still to do by Weds:
- Installing the new Vesper Marine AIS we bought a month ago.
- Do backups on all the computers, and mail a backup drive back to Florida for safekeeping
- Full operational check of the primary nav computer, which has been stored for the last 6 months
- Download a Google Earth cache of the places we plan to stop between here and Tonga
- Receive and install the 4 final rigging toggles
- Check and re-seal minor leak-prone areas on the deck
- Order some stove parts for spares (ship to Florida in case we need them later)
- Rig up the Monitor wind vane
- Unbag the propeller
- Finalize and pay for our boat insurance for the year
- Turn the car over to the new owner and cancel the car insurance
- Final 'groceries' trip for fresh veggies, bread, milk, and eggs
- Final phone calls to family
Fortunately we did our re-fueling just as gas prices started to rise. Dave made 4 trips to the gas station for gas and diesel in jugs in March. (Diesel at the marina is now selling at $5.25/gallon!!) We are fully topped out.
We have been working 12 hour days and drop into bed exhausted every night.
I can't wait to get to sea!!
Meanwhile, we are still working off the rest of our list. Here are just some of the things we've been doing in the last week:
- Took the propane stove out on the dock over to replace the thermocouple in the broiler, and give the stove and the stove area a thorough cleaning.
- Major rework on the Exhaust Riser (a key part of the engine) to repair a leak and to engineer the new one to reduce the source of the leaks
- Checked the underwater surfaces. We didn't need to do any scrubbing--the new paint we put on in January looks great. We have just a little slime which rubs off easily. We'll let the water movement (assuming we get going soon!) take care of that. The prop has been 'bagged' and so has no growth on it.
- Repacked the V-berth, stowing the foredeck awning, the kayaks, and the folding bikes, as well as 4 Rubbermaid tubs of food, miscellaneous spares, and 'trade goods'.
- Completed a full rigging inspection, from the top of the mast to the bottom of the chainplates
- Renewed the spreader anti-chafe boots
- Added a new cleat in the cockpit to make it easier to handle 2 roller furlers at once.
- Finished and rigged up lifeline 'spray guards' to help keep the cockpit dry
- Paid a visit to the local life-raft repacker, who is making expired SOLAS flare available to cruisers for free (these normally cost $75-$100 EACH)
- Reviewed our 3 'Abandon Ship' bags, checking the GPS and VHF, updating the batteries and flares, and refreshing ourselves on what's in there (and what's not).
- Had 2 long Skype calls with a friend who just spent the winter diving in the Marshall Islands--taking notes for our future adventures
- Multiple trips to West Marine, POP Marine, City Mill, Home Depot, Walmart, Kmart, Costco and Grocery Stores for parts, supplies, food, etc
- Stowed all the stuff we bought and made enough notes on the computer so we have a chance of finding it again. I've opted NOT to make a detailed food stores list this time (too time-consuming to do accurately and too much effort to keep it accurate as we use up stuff). We do keep fairly accurate 'spares' lists, though, especially for the deep dark spaces that are hard to get to.
- Unloaded the last of the 'stuff' out of the car and stowed it onboard, so the car is ready to turn over to the new owner.
- Installed the new wind sensor on our weather station
- Tightened jib track bolts
- Picked up some spares at West Marine for friends already in French Polynesia
- De-installed and shipped our old AIS receiver to the new owner.
- Dave is still working with the guy we sold the old refer equipment to--advising him on installation issues
- Money management--getting bills prepaid, credit cards paid off, making sure there's enough in the bank account to cover expenses for up to 2 months of no-internet
- Ongoing management of real estate issues back in Florida
- Arranged an agent to facilitate our check-in in French Polynesia
- Ongoing gathering of weather and routing information, planning the trip, and navigation strategies. This leg will be 2,000 mostly hard on the wind (ie wet and bumpy for 2-3 weeks).
- Ongoing twice-daily radio contacts with our friends already at sea
Still to do by Weds:
- Installing the new Vesper Marine AIS we bought a month ago.
- Do backups on all the computers, and mail a backup drive back to Florida for safekeeping
- Full operational check of the primary nav computer, which has been stored for the last 6 months
- Download a Google Earth cache of the places we plan to stop between here and Tonga
- Receive and install the 4 final rigging toggles
- Check and re-seal minor leak-prone areas on the deck
- Order some stove parts for spares (ship to Florida in case we need them later)
- Rig up the Monitor wind vane
- Unbag the propeller
- Finalize and pay for our boat insurance for the year
- Turn the car over to the new owner and cancel the car insurance
- Final 'groceries' trip for fresh veggies, bread, milk, and eggs
- Final phone calls to family
Fortunately we did our re-fueling just as gas prices started to rise. Dave made 4 trips to the gas station for gas and diesel in jugs in March. (Diesel at the marina is now selling at $5.25/gallon!!) We are fully topped out.
We have been working 12 hour days and drop into bed exhausted every night.
I can't wait to get to sea!!
Friday, April 8, 2011
Soaring on the North Shore of Oahu
One of the other really fun things we have done in the last month is go soaring (gliding) with Honolulu Soaring on the famous North Shore of Oahu.
Getting Ready to Go Up in Sky Surfer
This was another totally awesome tourist adventure. The airport is just inshore from the beach, and right next to some high cliffs. So the soaring on the updrafts along the ridgeline was really cool, and then when we got high enough, we went out over the ocean to look for whales.
Great Shot from the Tow Plane
Photo by Rob Host
Once we got to 1000 feet and detached from the tow plane, I got to take the "stick" (drive the plane) for a little while. It has been a long time since I've flown an airplane, and I was really overcontrolling. The glider is so light that it takes a feather-light touch on the stick to keep it on course and level.
After a few minutes of totally concentrating on the instruments and keeping the wings level and staying in the up-draft, I finally handed the controls back over to the instructor so I could relax and sightsee.
Dave Getting Ready for His Flight
Dave Flying Over the North Shore of Oahu
Dave and I each got our own ride with an instructor, but they also have a plane that you can go up with two people together (and a pilot), if you want to.
Lining Up for the Landing
I really recommend checking out Honolulu Soaring (aka The Original Glider Rides) if you're on Oahu and want to do something different. And if you don't have a rental car, they'll arrange transportation out from Honolulu for you.
And a big Mahalo (thank you) to Dusty and Sam and Claudia and Rob (all from Woodstock Properties) for setting this adventure up for us. Going up in a glider has been on my 'bucket list' for a long time!!
Dusty, Claudia, and Rob at the 49er for Breakfast
After our glider rides, we had a chance to explore Dillingham Field for awhile. Skydiving, gliding, biplane rides, instruction, oh my!! Just my kind of place! (sigh... there's never enough time to do everything I want to be doing!!)
This was NOT Our Plane!!
Photo by Claudia Host
My Next Flying Adventure
This was another totally awesome tourist adventure. The airport is just inshore from the beach, and right next to some high cliffs. So the soaring on the updrafts along the ridgeline was really cool, and then when we got high enough, we went out over the ocean to look for whales.
Photo by Rob Host
Once we got to 1000 feet and detached from the tow plane, I got to take the "stick" (drive the plane) for a little while. It has been a long time since I've flown an airplane, and I was really overcontrolling. The glider is so light that it takes a feather-light touch on the stick to keep it on course and level.
After a few minutes of totally concentrating on the instruments and keeping the wings level and staying in the up-draft, I finally handed the controls back over to the instructor so I could relax and sightsee.
Dave and I each got our own ride with an instructor, but they also have a plane that you can go up with two people together (and a pilot), if you want to.
I really recommend checking out Honolulu Soaring (aka The Original Glider Rides) if you're on Oahu and want to do something different. And if you don't have a rental car, they'll arrange transportation out from Honolulu for you.
And a big Mahalo (thank you) to Dusty and Sam and Claudia and Rob (all from Woodstock Properties) for setting this adventure up for us. Going up in a glider has been on my 'bucket list' for a long time!!
After our glider rides, we had a chance to explore Dillingham Field for awhile. Skydiving, gliding, biplane rides, instruction, oh my!! Just my kind of place! (sigh... there's never enough time to do everything I want to be doing!!)
Photo by Claudia Host
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
3 Days in Kauai
In late March we took a few days out of our busy 'preparations' schedule to fly over to Kauai for a whirlwind visit.
Dave and I at Hanakapi'ai Falls in Kauai
We would really have liked to take Soggy Paws over and stay for a month, but that just isn't in our plans. The best time to actually cruise the Hawaiian islands is in the calm summer months, and by summer we plan to be in Tahiti and Bora Bora instead. (To see our updated cruising plans: Click Here)
First, a few specifics of getting there, where we stayed, and the costs involved:
- We flew Island Air from Honolulu r/t for $150 each
- We stayed at the Kauai Sands hotel for $70/night (this is an older slightly downtrodden resort, but has perfectly reasonable accommodations--clean enough, decent beds, hot water, fridge in room, convenient location)
- We rented a car from Budget for 3 days for $44/day (incl taxes)
- We took a helicopter tour with Island Helicopters for $170 each
Our first few waking hours in Kauai were inauspicious--we visited McDonalds (breakfast and internet), Walmart (bought some "slippas" (Hawaiian for flip flops)), and Costco (bought Lunch), but after that, the rest of the visit was awesome.
Two of the 3 days we were there, we spent most of the day hiking. The first hike was in the Kalalau Valley (all the way to the end of the end of the Waimea Canyon road, and then on the trail to the Pihea lookout and down to the Kawakoi Stream). The drive up was really nice and we made several stops at lookouts to take pictures, and ate our Costco lunch at one scenic overlook. We didn't get on the hiking trail until after lunch, so we did have to hustle some to get all the way down to the stream. But once we turned the corner at the Pihea lookout, we were the only ones on that that trail, and so had the whole lush place to ourselves.
One of the great vistas along the Pihea Trail
We got back to the car in enough time so that we made it back down to the beach road in time to catch the sunset, and drive out to the Barking Sands Missile Tracking Station before dark.
The second hike was out on the Napali Coast (to the end of the road at the east end of Kauai), and we hiked all the way into Hanakapi'ai Falls. (The first picture above is at the falls). I actually got Dave out of bed at 6am to get on the trail early, so we'd have time to make it all the way to the falls. We were almost one of the first people at the falls, and got to go swimming before it got overrun with hikers (brrrrr!)
The 3rd day in Kauai we drove around--stopping at the old lighthouse and making many stops along the road between where our hotel was in Kapa'a and the roads end at Ke'e. We again grabbed a salad at Costco before setting out, and had lunch on a picnic table in famous Hanalei Bay, watching the surfers and the tourists.
Awesome View of the Napali Coast from the Helicopter
For our anniversary, Dave booked us on a one-hour helicopter tour of Kauai, and though it was pricey for budget travelers--it was the highlight of our trip. After calling all 5 helicopter tour places, we settled on Island Helicopters--partially on price and availability, but also because we had gotten a couple of recommendations from people about them. They originated the Kauai helicopter tour business over 30 years ago, and are still offering a fantastic ride for a good price. Dave negotiated us into the front seat of the helicopter and we got some great photos. The benefit of the helicopter tour is that there is so much of Kauai that you can't see by car, and it was awesome being able to hover in remote valleys. As we flew over various places, our pilot commented "There's where they filmed the water fall sequence in Jurassic Park 2..." etc etc. (lots of movies have been filmed on Kauai).
Jurassic Park Falls from the Helicopter
It was a great trip--wish we'd allocated more time--I'd love to go back to Kauai some time and do some more hiking and enjoy the beaches at a more leisurely pace. It's far enough out of the normal tourist circuit that it has a much more laid back flavor to it than Oahu does.
We would really have liked to take Soggy Paws over and stay for a month, but that just isn't in our plans. The best time to actually cruise the Hawaiian islands is in the calm summer months, and by summer we plan to be in Tahiti and Bora Bora instead. (To see our updated cruising plans: Click Here)
First, a few specifics of getting there, where we stayed, and the costs involved:
- We flew Island Air from Honolulu r/t for $150 each
- We stayed at the Kauai Sands hotel for $70/night (this is an older slightly downtrodden resort, but has perfectly reasonable accommodations--clean enough, decent beds, hot water, fridge in room, convenient location)
- We rented a car from Budget for 3 days for $44/day (incl taxes)
- We took a helicopter tour with Island Helicopters for $170 each
Our first few waking hours in Kauai were inauspicious--we visited McDonalds (breakfast and internet), Walmart (bought some "slippas" (Hawaiian for flip flops)), and Costco (bought Lunch), but after that, the rest of the visit was awesome.
Two of the 3 days we were there, we spent most of the day hiking. The first hike was in the Kalalau Valley (all the way to the end of the end of the Waimea Canyon road, and then on the trail to the Pihea lookout and down to the Kawakoi Stream). The drive up was really nice and we made several stops at lookouts to take pictures, and ate our Costco lunch at one scenic overlook. We didn't get on the hiking trail until after lunch, so we did have to hustle some to get all the way down to the stream. But once we turned the corner at the Pihea lookout, we were the only ones on that that trail, and so had the whole lush place to ourselves.
We got back to the car in enough time so that we made it back down to the beach road in time to catch the sunset, and drive out to the Barking Sands Missile Tracking Station before dark.
The second hike was out on the Napali Coast (to the end of the road at the east end of Kauai), and we hiked all the way into Hanakapi'ai Falls. (The first picture above is at the falls). I actually got Dave out of bed at 6am to get on the trail early, so we'd have time to make it all the way to the falls. We were almost one of the first people at the falls, and got to go swimming before it got overrun with hikers (brrrrr!)
The 3rd day in Kauai we drove around--stopping at the old lighthouse and making many stops along the road between where our hotel was in Kapa'a and the roads end at Ke'e. We again grabbed a salad at Costco before setting out, and had lunch on a picnic table in famous Hanalei Bay, watching the surfers and the tourists.
For our anniversary, Dave booked us on a one-hour helicopter tour of Kauai, and though it was pricey for budget travelers--it was the highlight of our trip. After calling all 5 helicopter tour places, we settled on Island Helicopters--partially on price and availability, but also because we had gotten a couple of recommendations from people about them. They originated the Kauai helicopter tour business over 30 years ago, and are still offering a fantastic ride for a good price. Dave negotiated us into the front seat of the helicopter and we got some great photos. The benefit of the helicopter tour is that there is so much of Kauai that you can't see by car, and it was awesome being able to hover in remote valleys. As we flew over various places, our pilot commented "There's where they filmed the water fall sequence in Jurassic Park 2..." etc etc. (lots of movies have been filmed on Kauai).
It was a great trip--wish we'd allocated more time--I'd love to go back to Kauai some time and do some more hiking and enjoy the beaches at a more leisurely pace. It's far enough out of the normal tourist circuit that it has a much more laid back flavor to it than Oahu does.
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Tsunami Wrap-Up - Marina Damage in Hawaii
This link probably won't permanently take you to the pictures, since this link is usually for the monthly seminar announcement for Hawaii Cruising Society (affiliated with Hawaii Yacht Club). But for now, it is a collection of photos taken by members of the damage at local marinas.
http://hyccruisingsociety.com/Seminar.html
Of course, here in Pearl Harbor, we had no damage whatsoever.
http://hyccruisingsociety.com/Seminar.html
Of course, here in Pearl Harbor, we had no damage whatsoever.
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Tsunami Update T+12hr
We have gotten calls and emails and some links and pictures from our other friends...
The water is still surging in the harbors, and the boats that are outside the harbors waiting for the go-ahead to go back to their slips are still waiting.
Gary, our single-handing friend from s/v Sea Flyer off the Big Island, sent us this a couple of hours ago:
Another friend just came back from the North Shore of Oahu and said he could still see the water surging in and out at Haleiwa Harbor.
We are, of course, watching the news reports from Japan and our hearts go out to those people and everyone around the Pacific Rim today.
The water is still surging in the harbors, and the boats that are outside the harbors waiting for the go-ahead to go back to their slips are still waiting.
Gary, our single-handing friend from s/v Sea Flyer off the Big Island, sent us this a couple of hours ago:
The Harbor is still closed due to the currents in there. One boat tried to go in but they turned around and came back out after hitting a light post and knocking it down on the walkway.
I may spend another night out here. It was a rough night last night, but not from the Tsunami. I didn't feel it go by out here--just fair size swells and no wind to sail.
I am sailing nice now. May be able to get some sleep when I get past all the other boats out here.
Have reports of damage in Kona and all along this coast. At least one house floated away.
Another friend just came back from the North Shore of Oahu and said he could still see the water surging in and out at Haleiwa Harbor.
We are, of course, watching the news reports from Japan and our hearts go out to those people and everyone around the Pacific Rim today.
Tsunami Update T+6hr
We are still fine, though we're still hearing inputs from our friends around the islands...
s/v Infini and the others that were at Hawaii Yacht Club got underway about 11pm last night, and as of an hour ago, were still being kept outside the harbor. All the boats were still milling around outside the harbor, with the Coast Guard standing guard and keeping boats from going back in. We have not heard how the docks and facilities in the Ala Wai Basin (including HYC) fared.
Our friends Rob and Claudia, on s/v Sea Host at Keehi Lagoon had a minor disaster--they had left their boat and evacuated to high ground, and on return, found that their entire dock had broken loose, and the boats and dock all rafted together were surging back and forth in the lagoon. They just called us to say that they managed to get a ride out to the 'raft', and free their boat. They are now trying to figure out where to go. Claudia said the surge is still incredible in the lagoon, and it's not safe to try to go outside. They are going to try to find a temporary tie up, and figure out where to go next.
We have a friend living on the water on the North Shore of Oahu, about 6 feet above sea level. He called an hour ago and said he was evacuated, and only just got back around 8:30am. He said his yard was full of debris and his fence and gate was smashed, but his house is OK, and no water got inside.
We have another friend on a boat in the Kona area on the Big Island. We haven't heard from him yet. And we haven't heard from Cahoots on Maui.
s/v Infini and the others that were at Hawaii Yacht Club got underway about 11pm last night, and as of an hour ago, were still being kept outside the harbor. All the boats were still milling around outside the harbor, with the Coast Guard standing guard and keeping boats from going back in. We have not heard how the docks and facilities in the Ala Wai Basin (including HYC) fared.
Our friends Rob and Claudia, on s/v Sea Host at Keehi Lagoon had a minor disaster--they had left their boat and evacuated to high ground, and on return, found that their entire dock had broken loose, and the boats and dock all rafted together were surging back and forth in the lagoon. They just called us to say that they managed to get a ride out to the 'raft', and free their boat. They are now trying to figure out where to go. Claudia said the surge is still incredible in the lagoon, and it's not safe to try to go outside. They are going to try to find a temporary tie up, and figure out where to go next.
We have a friend living on the water on the North Shore of Oahu, about 6 feet above sea level. He called an hour ago and said he was evacuated, and only just got back around 8:30am. He said his yard was full of debris and his fence and gate was smashed, but his house is OK, and no water got inside.
We have another friend on a boat in the Kona area on the Big Island. We haven't heard from him yet. And we haven't heard from Cahoots on Maui.
Tsunami Update T+3.5hr
I think the tsunami is over in Pearl Harbor. We really never experienced any wave action that I could feel down below.
Reports of waves "swamping the beaches" in Honolulu seem a little exaggerated, from what I saw as the first few waves reached us. Though I didn't watch the TV reports through the whole morning.
It seems that Maui got higher waves. Hope our cruising friends on s/v Cahoots hanging out in Maui are OK.
We haven't heard back from our friends on s/v Infini and s/v Before (and several others) that were docked at the Hawaii Yacht Club Aloha Dock. I am sure they got underway and spent the night in the ocean off Honolulu, milling around in deep water with several hundred other boats...their biggest risk not the tsunami but collision with another boat!
Reports of waves "swamping the beaches" in Honolulu seem a little exaggerated, from what I saw as the first few waves reached us. Though I didn't watch the TV reports through the whole morning.
It seems that Maui got higher waves. Hope our cruising friends on s/v Cahoots hanging out in Maui are OK.
We haven't heard back from our friends on s/v Infini and s/v Before (and several others) that were docked at the Hawaii Yacht Club Aloha Dock. I am sure they got underway and spent the night in the ocean off Honolulu, milling around in deep water with several hundred other boats...their biggest risk not the tsunami but collision with another boat!
Friday, March 11, 2011
Tsunami Update T+1hr
We are watching the local news, but it's only 4am out and still dark, and everyone's having a hard time watching what's going on. We are staring at grainy yellowish videos, and the TV reporters are trying really hard to make it exciting.
Having experienced the slow sloshing of the ocean after the last big tsunami, when we were in the Galapagos, I can understand what the reporters are talking about. But it's hard to get excited about 1' waves.
We feel more movement on Soggy Paws when the Admiral's Barge goes past.
Dave went back to bed already. I'm soon to follow. It's 4:15 am here, and I've yet to get any sleep.
They have cancelled school for today and closed non-essential government offices. I'm sure no one in Hawaii got much sleep last night.
Thanks for all the good thoughts from our friends all over.
Having experienced the slow sloshing of the ocean after the last big tsunami, when we were in the Galapagos, I can understand what the reporters are talking about. But it's hard to get excited about 1' waves.
We feel more movement on Soggy Paws when the Admiral's Barge goes past.
Dave went back to bed already. I'm soon to follow. It's 4:15 am here, and I've yet to get any sleep.
They have cancelled school for today and closed non-essential government offices. I'm sure no one in Hawaii got much sleep last night.
Thanks for all the good thoughts from our friends all over.
Not Another Tsunami!
We were fortunately watching TV this evening when the reports started coming in about the huge earthquake in Japan.
So we have spent the evening (and now late into the night) monitoring the situation. We have the computer checking 4-5 tsunami-related websites, the TV is on, the VHF is scanning all the local channels, and our cell phones are nearby.
The warning sirens have been going off for a couple of hours, so I'm sure everyone on Oahu knows of the Tsunami Warning status. The ETA of the first wave at Kauai, the island to the west of us, is about 3am. We will then supposedly have 15 minutes or so before it gets to Oahu.
Our friends on Infini called us a couple of hours ago and said they were going to get underway. The Ala Wai basin where they are is pretty exposed. Our friends on Sea Host, in Keehi Lagoon, called to say that their plan is to leave their boat and head for the hills.
We have the navigation computer up with the AIS receiver on, and we can see many of the commercial vessels in the commercial harbor about 5 miles away, getting underway. We can hear 5-6 Coast Guard vessels underway and talking with each other off-channel. The Coast Guard has been on the air on Ch 16 broadcasting the warning several times. And also saying that the Port of Honolulu is closed to all incoming vessels.
So far, we haven't seen any movement of military vessels within Pearl Harbor.
In an internet search of 'tsunami Pearl Harbor', we found a 40-page study done in 2006 assessing the tsunami risk within Pearl Harbor--specifically for the north side of Ford Island, where NOAA is building their new facility for the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center. This study studied actual data from 6 of the worst tsunami events in recorded history around the Pacific Basin, and modeled some 'worst case' hypothetical earthquakes. All the results show that Pearl Harbor is pretty safe, and where we are is just about the safest place within Pearl Harbor.
We are in a deep water area, way up inside Pearl Harbor. The other residents of the docks (some who have lived aboard for 15+ years) seem unfazed. They said that last year, they were forced to evacuate the boats when the big tsunami from Chile was on the way. They all just went up the hill just beyond the parking lot, and hung out there for a couple of hours.
We have prepped a 'grab bag' if we decide at the last minute to just evacuate the boat. And we have prepped the boat, in case we decide that getting underway is the best course of action. For now, we are just watching and waiting.
After watching the AIS for a bit, with all those boats out off the harbor milling around in the dark... we are probably safer here than anywhere else.
It's 1am right now. Dave is (predictably) napping, and I am (predictably) up worrying for the both of us. I have instructions to call him at 2am so we can make a decision as to the best course of action.
So we have spent the evening (and now late into the night) monitoring the situation. We have the computer checking 4-5 tsunami-related websites, the TV is on, the VHF is scanning all the local channels, and our cell phones are nearby.
The warning sirens have been going off for a couple of hours, so I'm sure everyone on Oahu knows of the Tsunami Warning status. The ETA of the first wave at Kauai, the island to the west of us, is about 3am. We will then supposedly have 15 minutes or so before it gets to Oahu.
Our friends on Infini called us a couple of hours ago and said they were going to get underway. The Ala Wai basin where they are is pretty exposed. Our friends on Sea Host, in Keehi Lagoon, called to say that their plan is to leave their boat and head for the hills.
We have the navigation computer up with the AIS receiver on, and we can see many of the commercial vessels in the commercial harbor about 5 miles away, getting underway. We can hear 5-6 Coast Guard vessels underway and talking with each other off-channel. The Coast Guard has been on the air on Ch 16 broadcasting the warning several times. And also saying that the Port of Honolulu is closed to all incoming vessels.
So far, we haven't seen any movement of military vessels within Pearl Harbor.
In an internet search of 'tsunami Pearl Harbor', we found a 40-page study done in 2006 assessing the tsunami risk within Pearl Harbor--specifically for the north side of Ford Island, where NOAA is building their new facility for the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center. This study studied actual data from 6 of the worst tsunami events in recorded history around the Pacific Basin, and modeled some 'worst case' hypothetical earthquakes. All the results show that Pearl Harbor is pretty safe, and where we are is just about the safest place within Pearl Harbor.
We are in a deep water area, way up inside Pearl Harbor. The other residents of the docks (some who have lived aboard for 15+ years) seem unfazed. They said that last year, they were forced to evacuate the boats when the big tsunami from Chile was on the way. They all just went up the hill just beyond the parking lot, and hung out there for a couple of hours.
We have prepped a 'grab bag' if we decide at the last minute to just evacuate the boat. And we have prepped the boat, in case we decide that getting underway is the best course of action. For now, we are just watching and waiting.
After watching the AIS for a bit, with all those boats out off the harbor milling around in the dark... we are probably safer here than anywhere else.
It's 1am right now. Dave is (predictably) napping, and I am (predictably) up worrying for the both of us. I have instructions to call him at 2am so we can make a decision as to the best course of action.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Rainy Day in Pearl Harbor
I am sitting out in the cockpit watching it rain. Fortunately, with our awning and our fully enclosed cockpit (with our side curtains down), it's pretty dry.
Our Main Cabin, This Morning
There is no room for me to work down below--Dave still has the center of the cabin torn up, where he is installing the new freezer. He's almost through with step 2 of the whole Frigoboat installation... upgrading the insulation on the freezer. We've now got 3" of 'blue board' all around. He's now to the point of bending the 40-inch evaporator plate to fit into our 24-inch wide freezer. (Frigoboat dealer and SSCA member, Scott from s/v Chardonnay says the perfect bending radius is around a bottle of Chardonnay!)
Hopefully we'll be able to flip the switch on the freezer in another day or two.
Meanwhile I've been sewing up in the laundry room (nice table, electricity, well-lit, and air-conditioned) with a borrowed sewing machine. I'm sewing new slipcovers for the dinette seats, to add a little color to our basic boat interior. (see one finished on the right side of the picture).
Sherry, Claudia, and John Sterling at the Pacific Aviation Museum
We have also been doing LOTS of other things...
- Working out in the gym and the swimming pool
- Monday night 'burn-it's at Hawaii Yacht Club
- Guided tour of the Pacific Aviation Museum by one of the Museum's founders, John Sterling
- 'First Sunday' Marine Flea Market down at the Ala Wai boat basin
- Sunday Brunch with Claudia & Robs--old cruising friends from s/v Sea Host
- Helping Mon from s/v Windy City study for her citizenship test (she passed!)
- C Dock Mexican Potluck
- Hiking the Aiea Loop Trail
- Ordering a new Vesper Marine AIS 850 Watchmate Transponder
- Helping a US Navy-contracted video production company come up with some pictures and information on Dave's Dad. The Navy is getting ready to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Naval Aviation, and Dave's Dad (also named David McCampbell) is the Navy's highest scoring Ace, and a Medal of Honor winner. Check it out here
- Managing our rental condo on Melbourne Harbor
- Sold our car and 2 bicycles (for delivery when we leave)
Some of the more interesting of these I do intend to blog with some pictures--there's just not enough time in the day!!
And, of course, we are getting down to the 'last 4 weeks'... so we are going over lists and trying to get small stuff done in between the big projects. (Provisioning, medications, LED lights, etc).
There is no room for me to work down below--Dave still has the center of the cabin torn up, where he is installing the new freezer. He's almost through with step 2 of the whole Frigoboat installation... upgrading the insulation on the freezer. We've now got 3" of 'blue board' all around. He's now to the point of bending the 40-inch evaporator plate to fit into our 24-inch wide freezer. (Frigoboat dealer and SSCA member, Scott from s/v Chardonnay says the perfect bending radius is around a bottle of Chardonnay!)
Hopefully we'll be able to flip the switch on the freezer in another day or two.
Meanwhile I've been sewing up in the laundry room (nice table, electricity, well-lit, and air-conditioned) with a borrowed sewing machine. I'm sewing new slipcovers for the dinette seats, to add a little color to our basic boat interior. (see one finished on the right side of the picture).
We have also been doing LOTS of other things...
- Working out in the gym and the swimming pool
- Monday night 'burn-it's at Hawaii Yacht Club
- Guided tour of the Pacific Aviation Museum by one of the Museum's founders, John Sterling
- 'First Sunday' Marine Flea Market down at the Ala Wai boat basin
- Sunday Brunch with Claudia & Robs--old cruising friends from s/v Sea Host
- Helping Mon from s/v Windy City study for her citizenship test (she passed!)
- C Dock Mexican Potluck
- Hiking the Aiea Loop Trail
- Ordering a new Vesper Marine AIS 850 Watchmate Transponder
- Helping a US Navy-contracted video production company come up with some pictures and information on Dave's Dad. The Navy is getting ready to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Naval Aviation, and Dave's Dad (also named David McCampbell) is the Navy's highest scoring Ace, and a Medal of Honor winner. Check it out here
- Managing our rental condo on Melbourne Harbor
- Sold our car and 2 bicycles (for delivery when we leave)
Some of the more interesting of these I do intend to blog with some pictures--there's just not enough time in the day!!
And, of course, we are getting down to the 'last 4 weeks'... so we are going over lists and trying to get small stuff done in between the big projects. (Provisioning, medications, LED lights, etc).
Monday, February 28, 2011
Waimano Falls Hike
We had a nice time hiking with our dock neighbor's son, Mike, and his family and friends up to Waimano Falls a couple of weeks ago. They live here in Hawaii, and have a group of friends with kids who go out and do things together. So when they planned a Sunday hike, they invited us along.We met in a parking lot down by Kamehameha Highway, and caravaned up to the start of the hike. Like many in Hawaii, the hike starts off a residential area, so we just parked on the side of the street.
It was a great hike--starting out along a ridge with some nice vistas, and then down into a valley to the waterfall. Getting back out of the valley was a little tough--nearly straight up for about 20 minutes, but the waterfall was worth it.
It was a hoot hiking with the kids--about 10 of them running everywhere. They loved jumping off the rocks at the falls, and did it tirelessly the whole time we were there.
Dave and I started back a few minutes earlier than the rest--I wanted plenty of time to do that hill at my own pace. So we were resting at the top of the grueling climb when the kids came up. They scrambled up the hill, hardly out of breath, and then started running down the trail. And still had enough energy at the end to to be climbing trees while we waited for the rest of the group to catch up. Oh, if you could just bottle that energy!!
More photos in our Photo Album
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Solar Panel Upgrade is a Complete Success
We have had the new upgraded solar panel array up and running for about a week now, and the results are good. We are now seeing 40+ amps in the middle of the day.
The New Solar Array
We increased our solar capability from 440 watts to 630 watts.
In addition, the following other upgrades were accomplished during this project:
- Mounting new solar powered, auto-on 'anchor lights' on the arch ($3 each, in plastic, at Home Depot. We bought a box of 6, and have spares if we need them)
Alarm Siren
- Mounting a new 'Burglar Alarm' on the arch. This is a light and siren that we can manually turn on... if we hear the pitter-patter of uninvited guests on the deck at night... if we have an at-anchor emergency and need to be quickly identified in an anchorage... to clear the cockpit of hangers-on if happy hour runs too late. It is wired to a switch in our bunk. The siren is loud and the light is a yellow flashing light. We are hoping that any intruders we might hear will immediately depart rather than having to confront them.
- New stronger mounts for the solar panels
- A better way to fix the rotatable panels firmly on the level in case of high winds.
- Renewed electrical wiring and waterproof junction boxes
- Extra cross bracing for the arch, which we can install easily before we go to sea
- Preventative maintenance on the radar
More pictures on our Photo Album
We increased our solar capability from 440 watts to 630 watts.
In addition, the following other upgrades were accomplished during this project:
- Mounting new solar powered, auto-on 'anchor lights' on the arch ($3 each, in plastic, at Home Depot. We bought a box of 6, and have spares if we need them)
- Mounting a new 'Burglar Alarm' on the arch. This is a light and siren that we can manually turn on... if we hear the pitter-patter of uninvited guests on the deck at night... if we have an at-anchor emergency and need to be quickly identified in an anchorage... to clear the cockpit of hangers-on if happy hour runs too late. It is wired to a switch in our bunk. The siren is loud and the light is a yellow flashing light. We are hoping that any intruders we might hear will immediately depart rather than having to confront them.
- New stronger mounts for the solar panels
- A better way to fix the rotatable panels firmly on the level in case of high winds.
- Renewed electrical wiring and waterproof junction boxes
- Extra cross bracing for the arch, which we can install easily before we go to sea
- Preventative maintenance on the radar
More pictures on our Photo Album
Friday, February 18, 2011
34 Days from Hawaii to Mexico!
I am happy to say that our friends on s/v Nakia finally made landfall in Mexico after 34 days at sea. Here is their report:
"We sailed 3445 nautical miles to make a rumbline distance of 2881 nautical miles. It took 34 days 9 hours for an average speed of 4.17 kts"
They sent in blog posts using Airmail, Sailmail, and Winlink every day, and also checked in on the Pacific Seafarer's Net.
We thought they were crazy heading for Mexico in the middle of winter. But John had studied it pretty well and knew what he was about. He took enough fuel along to motor through the windless high pressure area, and used the High as a 'shield' between them and the lows marching across further north. It worked for them.
Nakia Sitting Next to Us in Fakarava
(Photo by Bill Strassberg of Visions of Johanna)
We will miss them on the air and in the water in French Poly this year. But maybe we're hoping they'll get tired of Mexico and catch up with us next year.
"We sailed 3445 nautical miles to make a rumbline distance of 2881 nautical miles. It took 34 days 9 hours for an average speed of 4.17 kts"
They sent in blog posts using Airmail, Sailmail, and Winlink every day, and also checked in on the Pacific Seafarer's Net.
We thought they were crazy heading for Mexico in the middle of winter. But John had studied it pretty well and knew what he was about. He took enough fuel along to motor through the windless high pressure area, and used the High as a 'shield' between them and the lows marching across further north. It worked for them.
(Photo by Bill Strassberg of Visions of Johanna)
We will miss them on the air and in the water in French Poly this year. But maybe we're hoping they'll get tired of Mexico and catch up with us next year.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
It's a Small World
In the 'It's a Small World Category'... We have enjoyed re-connecting with Rob and Claudia of s/v Sea Host, who are living aboard in Ke'ehi Lagoon. They've been living aboard and working here in Hawaii for 6 years.
Some other cruisers we know (Cahoots, whom we met in Tahanea during the eclipse last summer), were tied up in the Ke'ehi Lagoon area, and met Rob and Claudia on the docks somewhere. They somehow mentioned Soggy Paws in their conversation, and Claudia said "We know a Soggy Paws..."
Dave first met Rob and Claudia at the 1998 SSCA Gam, where they were both preparing for their first major cruise. They then island hopped together (along with a whole bunch of other boats) down the 'Thorny Path' all the way to Trinidad, and all were hauled out in Trinidad the winter of 1999/2000.
Coincidentally, the 2000 Carnival in Trinidad was also the year that ex-husband Lenny and I flew down to 'do Carnival' (for the 3rd time) with our friends Wayne and Pam on Gallivanter. Chances are that we socialized with Sea Host, and Dave and then-wife Stacey at some cruiser Carnival event during the two weeks we were in Trinidad. (But we don't know for sure).
We DID, however, meet Don and Gwen on Tackless II during that trip to Trinidad. They were also hauled out in Trinidad, next to Soggy Paws. They have the same CSY 44 Walkthrough model that Soggy Paws is.
Don and Gwen were with us and Gallivanter, and Ed and Alice on Lady Helen, for the Jouvert 'parade', where you slather yourself in mud and dance and drink til dawn through the streets of Port of Spain. It was Gwen, in 2006, that introduced me (by email) to Dave.
Once you've been cruising for awhile, you keep running into boats you've met before, or friends of friends that you've heard about. Even on the other side of the world, and 10 years later.
Some other cruisers we know (Cahoots, whom we met in Tahanea during the eclipse last summer), were tied up in the Ke'ehi Lagoon area, and met Rob and Claudia on the docks somewhere. They somehow mentioned Soggy Paws in their conversation, and Claudia said "We know a Soggy Paws..."
Dave first met Rob and Claudia at the 1998 SSCA Gam, where they were both preparing for their first major cruise. They then island hopped together (along with a whole bunch of other boats) down the 'Thorny Path' all the way to Trinidad, and all were hauled out in Trinidad the winter of 1999/2000.
Coincidentally, the 2000 Carnival in Trinidad was also the year that ex-husband Lenny and I flew down to 'do Carnival' (for the 3rd time) with our friends Wayne and Pam on Gallivanter. Chances are that we socialized with Sea Host, and Dave and then-wife Stacey at some cruiser Carnival event during the two weeks we were in Trinidad. (But we don't know for sure).
We DID, however, meet Don and Gwen on Tackless II during that trip to Trinidad. They were also hauled out in Trinidad, next to Soggy Paws. They have the same CSY 44 Walkthrough model that Soggy Paws is.
Don and Gwen were with us and Gallivanter, and Ed and Alice on Lady Helen, for the Jouvert 'parade', where you slather yourself in mud and dance and drink til dawn through the streets of Port of Spain. It was Gwen, in 2006, that introduced me (by email) to Dave.
Once you've been cruising for awhile, you keep running into boats you've met before, or friends of friends that you've heard about. Even on the other side of the world, and 10 years later.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Sailing the Farm
We went to Sunday breakfast at the Wright Brothers Cafe on the water with Mike and Mon from Windy City, and Rob and Claudia from Sea Host. We had a great time talking about a range of subjects from living in Hawaii to cruising in the Caribbean.
One of the topics of conversation was that Mon was unhappy about leaving Hawaii in April because she likes to grow things. Mon has set up a little garden inside the Rainbow Bay Marina... some in available planters, and some out in the 'back 40' beyond the parking lot. Fresh basil, tomatoes, peppers, mint, etc, plus her favorite purple flower with which she makes tea.
So Claudia suggested that Mon take her garden with her. And later sent this picture of one of her neighbors in Ke'ehi Lagoon.
She also reminded me of the book we have onboard called "Sailing the Farm". It's pretty old, but still a great reference for sailors. You can still find used copies on Amazon.com (see link)Sailing the Farm: A Survival Guide to Homesteading on the Ocean
I also went back in my archives to find some old plans I had researched for a hydroponic garden you can make onboard. This probably isn't practical for voyaging, but would make a decent garden for sitting in a marina, where you have plenty of water and electricity available.
Here's the link to the plans for this Hydroponic Garden
http://www.hydroponicsonline.com/11plantJPG.htm
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Super Bowl in Honolulu
We had a great Super Bowl Sunday. Mike and Sue from s/v Infini have rented a condo for a month in the Ala Wai area of downtown Honolulu. It is within walking distance of the Hawaii Yacht Club where they are based, and perfect to host visiting friends for a couple of weeks, and provide a place for them to 'hang' while doing interior boat work.
Great View from the 16th Floor of the Ilikai
We all visited them one day (on our way to the top floor of the Ilikai for sunset Margaritas), and decided it would be a great place to watch the Super Bowl.
Mike and Sue were actually hauled out on Super Bowl Sunday, but they got through with their work in plenty of time to come enjoy the festivities, too. Their blog post.
I got some great already-cooked BBQ ribs from the Commissary, and made baked potatoes and salad, and fed everyone. Sue and Lee from s/v Before provided munchies. We all stuffed ourselves.
Dave Enjoying the Ribs
We enjoyed watching a pretty good game, and of course, the commercials.
Watching the Game
We all visited them one day (on our way to the top floor of the Ilikai for sunset Margaritas), and decided it would be a great place to watch the Super Bowl.
Mike and Sue were actually hauled out on Super Bowl Sunday, but they got through with their work in plenty of time to come enjoy the festivities, too. Their blog post.
I got some great already-cooked BBQ ribs from the Commissary, and made baked potatoes and salad, and fed everyone. Sue and Lee from s/v Before provided munchies. We all stuffed ourselves.
We enjoyed watching a pretty good game, and of course, the commercials.
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Another Awesome Sunset on C Dock
The weather has been just spectacular for the last 2 weeks...brilliantly sunny with temps ranging from about 65 (at night) to 75 (mid-day). As we used to say on Island Time so many years ago, "It doesn't get any better than this!!"
Another Typical Winter Sunset over Pearl Harbor
(The Bridge to Ford Island in the Background)
Our dock neighbors, Dennis and Linda from Nebraska, sit out and watch the sunset every evening. Dennis sets up a chair on the dock and lights up his one cigar a day at about 5pm, and when the cigar aroma wafts down into Soggy Paws, we know that it is time for Happy Hour. They are both really interesting and personable people, and I'm amazed that they've slowly gotten Dave into the Happy Hour habit--at least half the time. We try to go work out in the Gym several days a week, so we skip Happy Hour on those days.
Last night we were supposed to go work out, but Dave and I had both been working hard all day, and it looked like it was going to be another awesome sunset, so we skipped the gym and had TGIF instead. We ended up with about 8 people hanging out swapping lies and enjoying the beautiful sunset.
(The Bridge to Ford Island in the Background)
Our dock neighbors, Dennis and Linda from Nebraska, sit out and watch the sunset every evening. Dennis sets up a chair on the dock and lights up his one cigar a day at about 5pm, and when the cigar aroma wafts down into Soggy Paws, we know that it is time for Happy Hour. They are both really interesting and personable people, and I'm amazed that they've slowly gotten Dave into the Happy Hour habit--at least half the time. We try to go work out in the Gym several days a week, so we skip Happy Hour on those days.
Last night we were supposed to go work out, but Dave and I had both been working hard all day, and it looked like it was going to be another awesome sunset, so we skipped the gym and had TGIF instead. We ended up with about 8 people hanging out swapping lies and enjoying the beautiful sunset.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Yard Work - Day 3
The main project yesterday was to get the 2 Frigoboat Keel Coolers installed. Dave had previously found the best location for each Keel Cooler--they have to be within 5 feet of the compressor, and well below the waterline.
Dave Feeds the New Keel Cooler Lines Up Through the Hole
This whole process, which we'll detail separately on our website, went well. Here's pics of one of them installed, from the outside and the inside.
Keel Cooler from Outside
Keel Cooler from Inside
I spent a good part of the day doing more touch-up on the bottom paint, and installing some of the underwater fittings we had taken off to clean and paint.
Our Greased Propeller
I was also assigned the task of greasing the prop. I tried to do it with gloves on, but the grease is so hard that I finally had to shed the gloves and dig in with bare hands. Then it took 4 washings of my hands with pure dish soap before I got the sticky feeling off my hands.
The final task was cleaning the yard dirt off our tools and stuff, and putting everything back aboard--getting ready for a 7am 'launch time' (~20 trips up and down the ladder).
This whole process, which we'll detail separately on our website, went well. Here's pics of one of them installed, from the outside and the inside.
I spent a good part of the day doing more touch-up on the bottom paint, and installing some of the underwater fittings we had taken off to clean and paint.
I was also assigned the task of greasing the prop. I tried to do it with gloves on, but the grease is so hard that I finally had to shed the gloves and dig in with bare hands. Then it took 4 washings of my hands with pure dish soap before I got the sticky feeling off my hands.
The final task was cleaning the yard dirt off our tools and stuff, and putting everything back aboard--getting ready for a 7am 'launch time' (~20 trips up and down the ladder).
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