Sunday, November 29, 2009
Monday, November 16, 2009
Our new home on the water....November 16, 09
Saturday, November 15th we awoke early Saturday morning and Friendly Cab picked Emma, Ed and I up to head to Key West airport so Miss Em could head back to reality. Ed and I then had a bite of breakfast while we waited for the rental car company to open.
Lucas and Stacey were making preparations to take off later in the day.
Our journey north began. We had a goal; find a marina and slip for Great Mates II for the winter. We stopped at Marathon Marina and check on rates and availability and then walked the docks to look at the available slips. We measured, checked approach and view and walked back to tell the dockmaster, Bonnie, "we'd think about it". But then, Ed stopped to talk to a couple on their boat and that's when we met Judy.
Judy is a petite blond woman full of energy and enthusiasm (my kind of person). She proceeded to sell us on the virtues of this marina as they had been here for a few years. As we continued to learn, we discovered that this little woman had been a construction manager in Philadelphia, managing 120 union construction workers as they built a 34 story building. Then we met "Jackson" their dog (a Jack Russell Terrior) and then we met Dennis her mate. What a neat couple. But here's a really cool part of their story and their boat.
They had purchased this old ChrisCraft boat on Craigs List. It had a fresh water leak that damaged the engines and so they owners pulled her out, redid it and put it up for sale. A second person purchased her and kept it for a short while and Judy and Dennis purchased her then. They choose this Marina, that particular slip, not knowing her history. Judy proceeded to tell us that when they pulled in, the other boatowners looked as if they had seen a ghost. She asked, "What????, am I doing something wrong?" And she began to learn that this vessel had been in that same slip for the last 25 years. How bizarr. And, then.....
We shared with them that we had been enjoying the boat races in Key West and they said, yep, they had been there too, but couldn't find a seat so they watched from the sea wall at Mallory Sq. We said, "us too". We continued to talk and they Dennis said, I think we were standing right behind you guys. We said, "oh my gosh, you were, we remember!" Dennis said, "matter of fact, Ed, you are on my Facebook, because I was videoing the races and you are in it". Coincidence?>????
Personal note, in a Christians life, there isn't an coincidence; it's all in an Omnipotent plan beyond our imagination.
So, here we are.
Sunday, we awoke early and nervously headed out of our slip in KW. Two rows of slips with really expensive boats....as well as a few REALLY expensive boats docked paralel to the dock across from us. We had a very short time window to pull straight out before we could turn starboard because the dinghy would catch the dock post port stern. Ed out on the decks, Lisa at the wheel. We had a head sets on in order to communicate. Ed was my eyes for the back end of the boat. I just had to trust his orders.
"port, bump it forward" "Starboard, bump it back" "now, hard starboard, bump it forward" "now, hard port, back".."shit Lisa, we're not gonna make it!" "Go, straight forward",, "I can't Ed, there's a big ass boat there, I'll run into it". (so I reversed). "Lisa, don't go back!!!" "I have to, Ed!" "We're screwed, go back in". A few fellows came out to catch our lines, but we didn't have to go all the way back into the slip....they helped guide us with ropes until we got the bow pointed starboard enought and we could head on out. Whew! When Ed came back into the pilot house, I said, "I told you we'd make it!" (Oh, to our friend Barry.....crewman up the rivers...."Seaman Yanmar" survived once again.
So we began our cruise out of the KW harbor, through the same channel we'd cruised through. We departed the slip at 8:00 a.m. while the daily tradition of our National Anthem played from the military bases. I wish that happened everywhere. Maybe over the speaker systems in all the towns could play it. You know the emergency speaker systems that have been installed for tornados and stuff? Anyway, I digress.
It was a beautiful day on Sunday, November 15th. Dolphins who came by to serve as our Sunday morning greeters (hey, we were at church....) Flying fish, seagulls, calm seas (thank God), beautiful breeze, and a humbeling reminder of our place on this earth. I texted the kids, family and friends wishing them a day of Grace. Then, I got a text back from my sister announcing that they too had a great blessing at 5:30 a.m. Their son, Sam Perkins in Oswego IL and his wife Emily had received into the world their new baby boy, Owen Benjamin Perkins. A healthy, 8 lb, 8 oz gift from God. What joy!
We made it to our new home at Marathon Marina about 3:30 p.m. as our new neighbors watched from the docks and grabbed our lines to help guide us in. Oh, while Ed was providing directions to me as he was out on the back deck throwing off lines, his radio went in the drink. I didn't know that of course, I just kept saying, "Ed, I can't hear you, talk to me". I opened the port side pilot house door only to see my new neighbor tieing off a line and I said, "hello, I'm Lisa, I can't hear my husband to which he responded, ugh....his radio went overboard to which I responded, Oh, to which he responded, oh well, now you don't have to listen to him anymore." I said, "I like your style". We laughed and I removed my headset.
Ed shut down the engines, connected us to shore power, I reset the AC's, Ed started tidying up the decks, and then I heard, "Lisa, I need a cold beer!"
We met some more of our dockmates and connected the coax to prepare to watch the Colts vs. Patriots game. We discovered that we were surrounded by Patriots fans though. Boo!
At 10:30 p.m., the power went out on all docks. So, I pulled up the game on my Pre and we watched the last bit while laying in the master berth. Ed was hoping he wouldn't have to fire up a generator and....he didn't. Power came back on in just a bit.
Monday morning, Nov. 16th. We had our coffees out on the bow cushions while we watched the day come alive, sea gulls, some kind of weird ducks, and our dockmate told us that the Manatees will come by if they note that there is any fresh water coming off our boats. Cool! We'll look out for them.
Before we left, we purchased diving gear and our dockmates, Dennis and Judy have provided lots of information about some of the reefs around to enjoy.
More learning, more adventures and I am learning more and more about myself and the person that God created me to be.
Note....Ed has become a wonderful navigator, reading charts, checking longitudes, latitudes, "Offshore Navigator" software program and guiding us to our destinations.
What a gift he is to me.
Peace to all, Blessings and love, Lisa
(p.s., sorry for misspelled words, I haven't figured out how to do spell check yet. oh, and I still haven't figured out how to add pictures but I will)
Lucas and Stacey were making preparations to take off later in the day.
Our journey north began. We had a goal; find a marina and slip for Great Mates II for the winter. We stopped at Marathon Marina and check on rates and availability and then walked the docks to look at the available slips. We measured, checked approach and view and walked back to tell the dockmaster, Bonnie, "we'd think about it". But then, Ed stopped to talk to a couple on their boat and that's when we met Judy.
Judy is a petite blond woman full of energy and enthusiasm (my kind of person). She proceeded to sell us on the virtues of this marina as they had been here for a few years. As we continued to learn, we discovered that this little woman had been a construction manager in Philadelphia, managing 120 union construction workers as they built a 34 story building. Then we met "Jackson" their dog (a Jack Russell Terrior) and then we met Dennis her mate. What a neat couple. But here's a really cool part of their story and their boat.
They had purchased this old ChrisCraft boat on Craigs List. It had a fresh water leak that damaged the engines and so they owners pulled her out, redid it and put it up for sale. A second person purchased her and kept it for a short while and Judy and Dennis purchased her then. They choose this Marina, that particular slip, not knowing her history. Judy proceeded to tell us that when they pulled in, the other boatowners looked as if they had seen a ghost. She asked, "What????, am I doing something wrong?" And she began to learn that this vessel had been in that same slip for the last 25 years. How bizarr. And, then.....
We shared with them that we had been enjoying the boat races in Key West and they said, yep, they had been there too, but couldn't find a seat so they watched from the sea wall at Mallory Sq. We said, "us too". We continued to talk and they Dennis said, I think we were standing right behind you guys. We said, "oh my gosh, you were, we remember!" Dennis said, "matter of fact, Ed, you are on my Facebook, because I was videoing the races and you are in it". Coincidence?>????
Personal note, in a Christians life, there isn't an coincidence; it's all in an Omnipotent plan beyond our imagination.
So, here we are.
Sunday, we awoke early and nervously headed out of our slip in KW. Two rows of slips with really expensive boats....as well as a few REALLY expensive boats docked paralel to the dock across from us. We had a very short time window to pull straight out before we could turn starboard because the dinghy would catch the dock post port stern. Ed out on the decks, Lisa at the wheel. We had a head sets on in order to communicate. Ed was my eyes for the back end of the boat. I just had to trust his orders.
"port, bump it forward" "Starboard, bump it back" "now, hard starboard, bump it forward" "now, hard port, back".."shit Lisa, we're not gonna make it!" "Go, straight forward",, "I can't Ed, there's a big ass boat there, I'll run into it". (so I reversed). "Lisa, don't go back!!!" "I have to, Ed!" "We're screwed, go back in". A few fellows came out to catch our lines, but we didn't have to go all the way back into the slip....they helped guide us with ropes until we got the bow pointed starboard enought and we could head on out. Whew! When Ed came back into the pilot house, I said, "I told you we'd make it!" (Oh, to our friend Barry.....crewman up the rivers...."Seaman Yanmar" survived once again.
So we began our cruise out of the KW harbor, through the same channel we'd cruised through. We departed the slip at 8:00 a.m. while the daily tradition of our National Anthem played from the military bases. I wish that happened everywhere. Maybe over the speaker systems in all the towns could play it. You know the emergency speaker systems that have been installed for tornados and stuff? Anyway, I digress.
It was a beautiful day on Sunday, November 15th. Dolphins who came by to serve as our Sunday morning greeters (hey, we were at church....) Flying fish, seagulls, calm seas (thank God), beautiful breeze, and a humbeling reminder of our place on this earth. I texted the kids, family and friends wishing them a day of Grace. Then, I got a text back from my sister announcing that they too had a great blessing at 5:30 a.m. Their son, Sam Perkins in Oswego IL and his wife Emily had received into the world their new baby boy, Owen Benjamin Perkins. A healthy, 8 lb, 8 oz gift from God. What joy!
We made it to our new home at Marathon Marina about 3:30 p.m. as our new neighbors watched from the docks and grabbed our lines to help guide us in. Oh, while Ed was providing directions to me as he was out on the back deck throwing off lines, his radio went in the drink. I didn't know that of course, I just kept saying, "Ed, I can't hear you, talk to me". I opened the port side pilot house door only to see my new neighbor tieing off a line and I said, "hello, I'm Lisa, I can't hear my husband to which he responded, ugh....his radio went overboard to which I responded, Oh, to which he responded, oh well, now you don't have to listen to him anymore." I said, "I like your style". We laughed and I removed my headset.
Ed shut down the engines, connected us to shore power, I reset the AC's, Ed started tidying up the decks, and then I heard, "Lisa, I need a cold beer!"
We met some more of our dockmates and connected the coax to prepare to watch the Colts vs. Patriots game. We discovered that we were surrounded by Patriots fans though. Boo!
At 10:30 p.m., the power went out on all docks. So, I pulled up the game on my Pre and we watched the last bit while laying in the master berth. Ed was hoping he wouldn't have to fire up a generator and....he didn't. Power came back on in just a bit.
Monday morning, Nov. 16th. We had our coffees out on the bow cushions while we watched the day come alive, sea gulls, some kind of weird ducks, and our dockmate told us that the Manatees will come by if they note that there is any fresh water coming off our boats. Cool! We'll look out for them.
Before we left, we purchased diving gear and our dockmates, Dennis and Judy have provided lots of information about some of the reefs around to enjoy.
More learning, more adventures and I am learning more and more about myself and the person that God created me to be.
Note....Ed has become a wonderful navigator, reading charts, checking longitudes, latitudes, "Offshore Navigator" software program and guiding us to our destinations.
What a gift he is to me.
Peace to all, Blessings and love, Lisa
(p.s., sorry for misspelled words, I haven't figured out how to do spell check yet. oh, and I still haven't figured out how to add pictures but I will)
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Wedding Day
Well, our son Lucas is now a married man!
Monday evening, Nov 9, about a dozen of us went to "Kelly's Bar and Grill" and sat under the stars, dined together, took pictures, laughed and just had a terrific time with the bride and groom to be. After that, several of us headed to Sloppy Joes and partied on.
Tuesday was a day of preparation, getting Great Mates II ready to entertain after the wedding. Cleaning, carrying, sweeping, ironing, showering, laughing, taking turns watching Dominic, getting the golf carts, loading, unloading, whew! Then came time to head to the Key West Garden Club near White Street Pier.
A group of 18 people gathered to witness the marriage of Lucas Prosser and Stacey Snepp. In front of a magnificent old banyan tree, Lucas and Stacey took their vows to love and cherish one another for the rest of their lives. After Marcella announced them husband and wife, Dominic said, "that's the best show I ever saw!".
We all gathered around, toasted to the couple with champaign, nibbled on cheese and crackers and of course, chocolates.
Side note, did I mention how handsome our son Lucas looked????
Duane (steeldrumwedding.com)entertained us as he played his steel drum and then after the wedding, we talked with him about how long it took for him to grow his dreadlocks.....25 years! Totally neat!
Away we went in the golf carts down Duval Street, a quick stop at Sloppy Joes and then on to Conch Harbor Marina to slip 27 where Great Mates II awaited. The evening had a gentle breeze, the temperature was lovely, the ocean was gentle all for a great surrounding for the wedding reception. Music, food, a fish-cleaning table made into a bar, and friends and family. This is the stuff memories are made of.
God blesses us every minute of every day with His glory.....we just have to "be still and know He is God".
Tomorrow....boat races here in Key West. A day on the beach, relaxing, sun and fun!
God's peace, Lisa
Monday evening, Nov 9, about a dozen of us went to "Kelly's Bar and Grill" and sat under the stars, dined together, took pictures, laughed and just had a terrific time with the bride and groom to be. After that, several of us headed to Sloppy Joes and partied on.
Tuesday was a day of preparation, getting Great Mates II ready to entertain after the wedding. Cleaning, carrying, sweeping, ironing, showering, laughing, taking turns watching Dominic, getting the golf carts, loading, unloading, whew! Then came time to head to the Key West Garden Club near White Street Pier.
A group of 18 people gathered to witness the marriage of Lucas Prosser and Stacey Snepp. In front of a magnificent old banyan tree, Lucas and Stacey took their vows to love and cherish one another for the rest of their lives. After Marcella announced them husband and wife, Dominic said, "that's the best show I ever saw!".
We all gathered around, toasted to the couple with champaign, nibbled on cheese and crackers and of course, chocolates.
Side note, did I mention how handsome our son Lucas looked????
Duane (steeldrumwedding.com)entertained us as he played his steel drum and then after the wedding, we talked with him about how long it took for him to grow his dreadlocks.....25 years! Totally neat!
Away we went in the golf carts down Duval Street, a quick stop at Sloppy Joes and then on to Conch Harbor Marina to slip 27 where Great Mates II awaited. The evening had a gentle breeze, the temperature was lovely, the ocean was gentle all for a great surrounding for the wedding reception. Music, food, a fish-cleaning table made into a bar, and friends and family. This is the stuff memories are made of.
God blesses us every minute of every day with His glory.....we just have to "be still and know He is God".
Tomorrow....boat races here in Key West. A day on the beach, relaxing, sun and fun!
God's peace, Lisa
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Headed for the blue water......
As you know, we pulled into Mobile Bay on Friday with the intention of departing on Saturday morning, however, the seas were too rough so we just took the time to do maintenance, and further preparation.
Saturday, we met a the wonderful fellow who had spoted us out in the harbour Friday night. He came aboard and the next aprox 24 hours we learned and learned and learned from him and a few others. Doug showed us a computer program that he promised would be of great assistance so we purchased it and Doug made sure it was loaded and running. It's Maps and Roads with GPS and it works terrific.
As to the fun we had........Saturday afternoon we were invited to the "Table of Knowledge" at the Marina. There were about 15-20 folks there - some with costume and some not but the costumes present inspired Ed to put on his pirate coat and hat. (see picture above)
We also had a chance to meet Doug's wife, Shannon. A wonderful woman and Rod, Ed, and I mentioned to each other that the conversation between us made us feel like we had known these two people for years.
Boating people are like camping people in many ways. Just well grounded and a joy!
Then someone in the crowd asked if we were "Yankees". We affirmed. Then that same person said, "I understand there's no difference between and Yankee and a Democrat". To which I responded, "excuse me?" The bantering ensued and I reminded him that it wasn't wise to irritate a red headed woman....especially one who professes to be a constitutional conservative. Well, the conversations continued with loads of laughter and just plain ol' fun. Later, Ed, Rod and I headed to the restaurant to enjoy a great dinner previous to hitting the sack about midnight.
2:oo today, we pushed off and headed out through the channel towards the Gulf. Beautiful day, and I noted a Monarch Butterfly passing by us. I suppose it was migrating. Cool.
More later as we are able. Next stop, Key West - or maybe the Dry Tortugus for some snorkling and anchorage.
God's blessings to all,
Lisa
Congrats to our Indianapolis Colts!
Personal note, our friends son-in-law is making positive progress. Still a long way to go, but progress is being made. Keep those prayers coming.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Saturday in Mobile Bay
Well, we're docked in Mobile Bay, AL at the Grand Mariner Marina. Yesterday was a tough day but we made it and we are safe. Let me back up though.
Thursday eve we docked at Bobby's Fish Camp. We docked about 5:30 p.m. and a fishing vessel pulled in to dock for the night as well. A couple of fella's, Don and Rick we delivering this vessel to Nashville TN. They had departed from Clearwater FL. We "dined" with them in the little restaurant/store up the hill and enjoyed shrimp, catfish, hushpuppies, slaw and cold beer. Don shared (alot) about his history for 40 years as a boat captain and Rick (a young man about 25), got to speak a little (when Don would stop to eat a bite) about obtaining his captains license in N Palm Beach and his experiences as a diver.
Wednesday evening we docked at Demopolis Marina where we met a neat couple from Carbondale IL. They have been living aboard for about 5-6 years on their Trawler, "Dual Dream". While Lucas sat at the bar with them visiting, Ed and I made a quick trip to WalMart to provision. Once we returned to the Marina, we joined Lucas, Mike and Harriet (Dual Dreams) at the bar, drank, laughed and ate while sharing a little about our lives and boating experiences. Come to find out, Mike and Harriet know our friends, Bill and Libby ("Lorelei") whom we met at Green Turtle Bay in KY who have now moved into their new home in Corel Gables while leaving "Lorelei IV" in KY for the winter. Mike ended up renting a car Thursday morning and driving Lucas to Mobile AL where he spent the night at the Hampton Inn. Our friend and crew member for crossing the Gulf flew into Mobile airport Thursday afternoon and met up with Lucas. They had dinner together
Thursday eve we docked at Bobby's Fish Camp. We docked about 5:30 p.m. and a fishing vessel pulled in to dock for the night as well. A couple of fella's, Don and Rick we delivering this vessel to Nashville TN. They had departed from Clearwater FL. We "dined" with them in the little restaurant/store up the hill and enjoyed shrimp, catfish, hushpuppies, slaw and cold beer. Don shared (alot) about his history for 40 years as a boat captain and Rick (a young man about 25), got to speak a little (when Don would stop to eat a bite) about obtaining his captains license in N Palm Beach and his experiences as a diver.
Wednesday evening we docked at Demopolis Marina where we met a neat couple from Carbondale IL. They have been living aboard for about 5-6 years on their Trawler, "Dual Dream". While Lucas sat at the bar with them visiting, Ed and I made a quick trip to WalMart to provision. Once we returned to the Marina, we joined Lucas, Mike and Harriet (Dual Dreams) at the bar, drank, laughed and ate while sharing a little about our lives and boating experiences. Come to find out, Mike and Harriet know our friends, Bill and Libby ("Lorelei") whom we met at Green Turtle Bay in KY who have now moved into their new home in Corel Gables while leaving "Lorelei IV" in KY for the winter. Mike ended up renting a car Thursday morning and driving Lucas to Mobile AL where he spent the night at the Hampton Inn. Our friend and crew member for crossing the Gulf flew into Mobile airport Thursday afternoon and met up with Lucas. They had dinner together
Monday, October 26, 2009
Monday (I think), Oct 26, 2009
The above picture is an abandoned docking pier we came upon late in the evening amidst the fog....kinda spooky.
BUSY day. We've gone through five locks today which makes a total of 6 so far with only 8 to go.
We've boosted up our power as we fear we're not going to meet our destination in time.
None-the-less......tonight for dinner; steaks on the grill, green beans and garlic bread. For lunch we had roast beef/wasabi roll ups and for breakfast, mexican grill. Lucas says, he just wants a greasy old cheeseburger as he is tired of Captain "Cook" gourmet food. (yeah, right).
We've had a bit of a generator problem but we think it's fixed. Last night after dinner we were sitting around drinking wine and visiting and all of a sudden; BAM, no power. Ed went into action. (I love that)
We emailed when available to Capt Larry in Ensenada and he tutored us through and along with changing batteries, we think the problem is fixed.
Interesting......we haven't ever traveled before with other boats but today we have been traveling with two other boaters. One from Missourti (took a leave from the University to cruise for five years and then will return to work) and one from Texas. Don't know what their story is.
I hope tomorrow I will have time to figure out how to add pictures to this Blog. I know that will be more interesting to the followers than my editorial comments. In the mean time; God's peace to all.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
FOG in the a.m. - we're slowin' down
Sunday morning, October 25th, 2009
We awoke to "pea soup" - to say, fogged in. I told Ed, "we're not going anywhere for a while". To which he replied, "damn, THIS (fog) and the Locks are the two things that will slow us down".
To which I replied, "it is what it is."
As I was in the Master Head getting ready for the day, I kept hearing the ships horn blow and I wondered, "why is Lucas playing with that damned horn?" Then, I realized, he was alerting others on the River that we were present.
As it is Sunday, we had our traditional Mimosas along with bisctuits and gravy. We all stood in the Pilot House with our plates of food and glasses of Mimosas and toasted to the day, "Happy Sunday".
Lucas had previously installed the new brass "gimble" lights in the salon but could not get them to work, yet when he changed bulbs, he got them to work. First major achievement of the day!
Well, after a beautiful day on the River, heading South, we are slowly preparing to be in warm weather.
Lisa planted a garden of Rosemary, Cilantro and Basil on the front deck. YUM!
First Lock, heading South is Pickwick Dam/Landing. Lisa completed a beutiful dockage BUT, something odd happened, the Lockmater said, "ok" before the horn blew (which is traditional for the motion to exit. So, Lisa, put it slowly in gear to which Ed said, "LISA, WHAT ARE YOU DOING?" Then the horn blew. He couldn't hear the Lockmater and I didn't know it. None-the-less, we departed, no injuries, no worries.
God has blessed us once again with a beautiful day and a safe voyage.
Go COLTS!
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Headed back south
Wednesday, October 21st:
Good friend (and previous crewmate, Vincent DeFelice) drove Ed, Lucas and I to Grand Rivers, KY - Green Turtle Bay Marina where we have been docked since May.
We had a plan....
Remodel the interior of "Chartwell"; now Great Mates II over the summer as it was a close proximaty to home in Mooresville and we figured there would be good craftsman in this area since there are lots of wonderful houseboats, sailboats and many other craft. WOW, what a summer.
First things first. The last several months have been lots of hard work and keeping many lists. But, it has been a time of growth, learning and challenge.
Not only have we gotten used to our newly and beautifully remodeled home in Mooresville (thanks to nephew Dave Wezn and son, Lucas Prosser) but we've enjoyed entertaining friends and family while having the privilege of caring for grandson Dominic Scott (now almost 3) every Monday and a few other days inbetween. What a joy and blessing!
Also, we have been so excited to watch the maturity of daughter, Emma while in Bloomington IN at college while she excels as a student and a worker at the "Bakehouse on the Square" as an assistant manager.
Then, there's son-in-law Billy who is serving in Afganastan, checking in often except when he is in the mountains. And, beautiful daughter and momma to Dominic, Audra who is enjoying getting back into the working world parttime and using the gifts that our Lord gave her as a Recreation Coordinator for IN Job Corp students.
Now, we are in the final days of assisting Lucas and his finance', Stacey while they are planning their wedding to take place in Key West on Nov 10th. How fun!!!
We had a few visitors over the summer to Great Mates II while in KY Lake and they ALL worked for food and drink.
Good friends, Steve and Teresa Helming visited. During their stay, one night late Lisa heard something up on the back deck. Ed ran up (in his underwear) only to find a racoon running away after getting into our trash bag and most specifically, a wine bottle. (must have had a little left). Course, when Steve Helming heard the raucous, he came running up the guest stateroom stairs and said to Ed, "are we under attack?" (I think he still has nightmares of watching Ed in his underwear chasing a racoon off our boat).
Then there was a visit with friend Jeff Losh, his friend, Mindy, sister in-law, Donna Moulder and husband Dave along with Lucas and Stacey. Jeff brought his go fast boat and we all enjoyed the Lake while working on Great Mates II, drinking, eating and laughing....ALOT.
And friends, Rod and Brenda Titus who came down to assist with many projects on the boat while sharing in our excitement of owning this beautiful vessel. Rod will be cruising with us from Mobile Bay to Key West in a week or so. (more then)
No words can express the grateful heart for Donna and Dave Moulder and all the work they've done on this vessel. They've removed old mirrors and installed new beautiful teak framed and beveled mirrors. They've installed new BIG salon windows and installed a creen door on the back salon door and the galley window. THANK YOU!
Matthew DeFelice and wife Jen. thank you for enjoying our vessel with us and Mathhew, thank you for your craftmanship in machining needed divices.
And, past crew member, Vince, THANK YOU for our beautiful "hi-lo" table made from walnut trees on your property.
Now, the craftman we encountered and hired in KY. Sharon, Jaison, Amy and Wendy, Mr. Oliver, Gary, Clifford and many others who assisted us in making Great Mates II....ours. THANK YOU!
Many trips to Lowes, WalMart, Jeff & Emily's IGA, Patti's, Uncle Bills,and Roof Top Brothers Liquor store in Paduca.
Now, we journey south with son, Lucas as crew. How cool!
We departed Green Turtle Bay on Friday morning, October 23. It was raining, cool and we took on 826 gal of fuel before departure. (of course, diesel has gone up alot since we left Ft. Lauderdale in the spring. ($1.75 in Ft. Lauderdale, $2.70 in KY).
We are in day two of our journey south and we know many of you are praying for our safety. THANK YOU.
We are excited to share this and future blog postings with you.
Good friend (and previous crewmate, Vincent DeFelice) drove Ed, Lucas and I to Grand Rivers, KY - Green Turtle Bay Marina where we have been docked since May.
We had a plan....
Remodel the interior of "Chartwell"; now Great Mates II over the summer as it was a close proximaty to home in Mooresville and we figured there would be good craftsman in this area since there are lots of wonderful houseboats, sailboats and many other craft. WOW, what a summer.
First things first. The last several months have been lots of hard work and keeping many lists. But, it has been a time of growth, learning and challenge.
Not only have we gotten used to our newly and beautifully remodeled home in Mooresville (thanks to nephew Dave Wezn and son, Lucas Prosser) but we've enjoyed entertaining friends and family while having the privilege of caring for grandson Dominic Scott (now almost 3) every Monday and a few other days inbetween. What a joy and blessing!
Also, we have been so excited to watch the maturity of daughter, Emma while in Bloomington IN at college while she excels as a student and a worker at the "Bakehouse on the Square" as an assistant manager.
Then, there's son-in-law Billy who is serving in Afganastan, checking in often except when he is in the mountains. And, beautiful daughter and momma to Dominic, Audra who is enjoying getting back into the working world parttime and using the gifts that our Lord gave her as a Recreation Coordinator for IN Job Corp students.
Now, we are in the final days of assisting Lucas and his finance', Stacey while they are planning their wedding to take place in Key West on Nov 10th. How fun!!!
We had a few visitors over the summer to Great Mates II while in KY Lake and they ALL worked for food and drink.
Good friends, Steve and Teresa Helming visited. During their stay, one night late Lisa heard something up on the back deck. Ed ran up (in his underwear) only to find a racoon running away after getting into our trash bag and most specifically, a wine bottle. (must have had a little left). Course, when Steve Helming heard the raucous, he came running up the guest stateroom stairs and said to Ed, "are we under attack?" (I think he still has nightmares of watching Ed in his underwear chasing a racoon off our boat).
Then there was a visit with friend Jeff Losh, his friend, Mindy, sister in-law, Donna Moulder and husband Dave along with Lucas and Stacey. Jeff brought his go fast boat and we all enjoyed the Lake while working on Great Mates II, drinking, eating and laughing....ALOT.
And friends, Rod and Brenda Titus who came down to assist with many projects on the boat while sharing in our excitement of owning this beautiful vessel. Rod will be cruising with us from Mobile Bay to Key West in a week or so. (more then)
No words can express the grateful heart for Donna and Dave Moulder and all the work they've done on this vessel. They've removed old mirrors and installed new beautiful teak framed and beveled mirrors. They've installed new BIG salon windows and installed a creen door on the back salon door and the galley window. THANK YOU!
Matthew DeFelice and wife Jen. thank you for enjoying our vessel with us and Mathhew, thank you for your craftmanship in machining needed divices.
And, past crew member, Vince, THANK YOU for our beautiful "hi-lo" table made from walnut trees on your property.
Now, the craftman we encountered and hired in KY. Sharon, Jaison, Amy and Wendy, Mr. Oliver, Gary, Clifford and many others who assisted us in making Great Mates II....ours. THANK YOU!
Many trips to Lowes, WalMart, Jeff & Emily's IGA, Patti's, Uncle Bills,and Roof Top Brothers Liquor store in Paduca.
Now, we journey south with son, Lucas as crew. How cool!
We departed Green Turtle Bay on Friday morning, October 23. It was raining, cool and we took on 826 gal of fuel before departure. (of course, diesel has gone up alot since we left Ft. Lauderdale in the spring. ($1.75 in Ft. Lauderdale, $2.70 in KY).
We are in day two of our journey south and we know many of you are praying for our safety. THANK YOU.
We are excited to share this and future blog postings with you.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
WE ARE DOCKED!
Wednesday, May 13th; we are docked! Indeed, a sucessful journey! It's been 14 days since we departed Ft. Lauderdale. We've navigated, caught big waves, got sick, cooked meals, laughed, worried (Ed only, not Lisa), transferred fuel, checked gages, added oil, cleaned heat exchangers, cleaned toilets and showers, cooked some more, drank some more, provisioned further when we got a chance, marveled at the beautiful scenery, checked charts, watched radar, checked depths, watched engine temperatures, drank some more, slept while being rocked to sleep, kept a watch schedule, looked for the red and green, thanked God for purchasing the great binoculars we found on sale, done laundry, cooked some more, drank some more, showered while doing our best to stand upright, and nightly thanked God for our many blessings and prayed for our families and friends.
Tomorrow, we "deboat" and head home; a place we haven't seen much.
Ed will go back to work (hopefully, if he still has a job) and Vince will go back to his family and work and Barry will go back to his daily schedule and Lisa....well, I will continue my attempt to get used to retirement and figure out what God has planned for me next.
The summer will be busy with doing a cosmetic interior remodeling to the boat, hiring artisens, upholsters, etc. while making the trip back and forth from Mooresville to Kentucky Lake (5 hours).
In the meantime, until we journey again, I am grateful for all of you who have followed us on our journey, prayed for us, thought of us and provided encouragement.
We will log on again in the future.
Gods blessings,
Lisa
Tomorrow, we "deboat" and head home; a place we haven't seen much.
Ed will go back to work (hopefully, if he still has a job) and Vince will go back to his family and work and Barry will go back to his daily schedule and Lisa....well, I will continue my attempt to get used to retirement and figure out what God has planned for me next.
The summer will be busy with doing a cosmetic interior remodeling to the boat, hiring artisens, upholsters, etc. while making the trip back and forth from Mooresville to Kentucky Lake (5 hours).
In the meantime, until we journey again, I am grateful for all of you who have followed us on our journey, prayed for us, thought of us and provided encouragement.
We will log on again in the future.
Gods blessings,
Lisa
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
The Tennessee River - May 12, 2009
We left early this morning from a great Marina in Mississippi, went through just one lock and it was completely different from the rest. Instead of being raised UP, we were lowered 55' as we were locking through to the Tennessee River. The terrain has changed a great deal. This is much more interesting, very hilly, lush with trees and rocky edges and some pretty cool homes on the banks. We can't believe that people build these places on banks that are eroding though. How silly!
We stopped in one very nice Marina called the "Grand Harbor at Pickwick" located in Counce TN. This might be a place to head south to when it starts getting cold at Kentucky Lake.
We passed the Shiloh National Forest and Vince told us about a trip that he and Bill Glenn had taken there some years ago on their motorcycles.
Ed and I were able to talk to grandson Dominic on the video cam for a bit today. "GG" walked around the boat with computer in hand to show he and momma the boat.
It's has been a great journey but Ed and I and crew mates Barry and Vince are ready to get home. We hope to be back in Mooresville with our families by Friday.
We stopped in one very nice Marina called the "Grand Harbor at Pickwick" located in Counce TN. This might be a place to head south to when it starts getting cold at Kentucky Lake.
We passed the Shiloh National Forest and Vince told us about a trip that he and Bill Glenn had taken there some years ago on their motorcycles.
Ed and I were able to talk to grandson Dominic on the video cam for a bit today. "GG" walked around the boat with computer in hand to show he and momma the boat.
It's has been a great journey but Ed and I and crew mates Barry and Vince are ready to get home. We hope to be back in Mooresville with our families by Friday.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Sweet Home Alabama....NOT!
I can't believe we are STILL in Alabama! Will we never get out of this state? We've been going up this river for days it seems. Although the scene's change, it is still Alabama.
BUT, first, let me thank dear friend Deb Crecelius for posting the pictures I have sent via my phone as I have not had Internet service to be able to do my own posting for days.
And, second, thanks to friends Vince and Barry for making this journey with us although I'm certain it's longer than they bargained for.
We have not gone through I think 4 or 5 locks and each time it gets a little easier; but it's still a bit tense as the current will all of sudden grab the boat and steer it in a new direction just when "the captain" thinks she is on on task and heading to a "ballard" so the crew can tie up.
All in all, it's been a good trip as no one has gotten sick or injured and the days have been very pleasant.
The last few nights we have "been on the hook" which in land lovers terms is that we've found a little spot near shore and dropped the anchor. BUT, with that comes a watch schedule so the "crew" has taken turns on watch. Last night, Barry was on watch when a big storm blew in. He told Vince when he came on watch, "I damned near came down and woke all you guys up...the wind was really fierce and I was worried about the trees potentially blowing down on this boat". BUT, no worries.
Yesterday afternoon, we docked at a little marina and Ed and I took the courtesy car and headed to a super WalMart for more provisions. (except, they didn't have my vodka)
I made home-made Chicken and Dumplings, green beans and parkerhouse rolls so we all enjoyed a nice dinner.
The water has been MUCH smoother which is nice during showers, cooking, etc. We've been heading north of course on a southern flowing stream so even though we are full throttle ahead, with an approximate 2-3 mile current, our speed is about 6.5 - 7 kph.
Did I tell you about the mechanical repairs?
Well, two days ago, first thing in the morning, the guys got up to check out why in the world our engine was running hot. It had to be the heat exchanger. SO, Ed fashioned a coat hanger with a tiny hook on the end and connected it to his drill and he and Vince took off the head of the heat exchanger and began drilling through all of the tiny holes to clean them out. One by one; while Barry worked on polishing the head back to it's beautiful brass finish.
Lisa was asking for God's guidance and cool heads while they fevorishly worked.
When it was time to fire the engine, Lisa continued to pray.
IT WORKED!
An hour up river, the engine temperature was holding a 165 even though we were at full throttle whereas before it would creep up to nearly 200. NOT GOOD.
So that's fixed. Whewhoo!
Vince takes breaks writing in his journal and Barry keeps us all laughing with his quirky comments.
Ed and Lisa are grateful for good friends.
We should be getting close to our last lock for the night so I'll sign off now.
God's blessings and a happy Mothers Day to all,
Peace, "Captain Red"
BUT, first, let me thank dear friend Deb Crecelius for posting the pictures I have sent via my phone as I have not had Internet service to be able to do my own posting for days.
And, second, thanks to friends Vince and Barry for making this journey with us although I'm certain it's longer than they bargained for.
We have not gone through I think 4 or 5 locks and each time it gets a little easier; but it's still a bit tense as the current will all of sudden grab the boat and steer it in a new direction just when "the captain" thinks she is on on task and heading to a "ballard" so the crew can tie up.
All in all, it's been a good trip as no one has gotten sick or injured and the days have been very pleasant.
The last few nights we have "been on the hook" which in land lovers terms is that we've found a little spot near shore and dropped the anchor. BUT, with that comes a watch schedule so the "crew" has taken turns on watch. Last night, Barry was on watch when a big storm blew in. He told Vince when he came on watch, "I damned near came down and woke all you guys up...the wind was really fierce and I was worried about the trees potentially blowing down on this boat". BUT, no worries.
Yesterday afternoon, we docked at a little marina and Ed and I took the courtesy car and headed to a super WalMart for more provisions. (except, they didn't have my vodka)
I made home-made Chicken and Dumplings, green beans and parkerhouse rolls so we all enjoyed a nice dinner.
The water has been MUCH smoother which is nice during showers, cooking, etc. We've been heading north of course on a southern flowing stream so even though we are full throttle ahead, with an approximate 2-3 mile current, our speed is about 6.5 - 7 kph.
Did I tell you about the mechanical repairs?
Well, two days ago, first thing in the morning, the guys got up to check out why in the world our engine was running hot. It had to be the heat exchanger. SO, Ed fashioned a coat hanger with a tiny hook on the end and connected it to his drill and he and Vince took off the head of the heat exchanger and began drilling through all of the tiny holes to clean them out. One by one; while Barry worked on polishing the head back to it's beautiful brass finish.
Lisa was asking for God's guidance and cool heads while they fevorishly worked.
When it was time to fire the engine, Lisa continued to pray.
IT WORKED!
An hour up river, the engine temperature was holding a 165 even though we were at full throttle whereas before it would creep up to nearly 200. NOT GOOD.
So that's fixed. Whewhoo!
Vince takes breaks writing in his journal and Barry keeps us all laughing with his quirky comments.
Ed and Lisa are grateful for good friends.
We should be getting close to our last lock for the night so I'll sign off now.
God's blessings and a happy Mothers Day to all,
Peace, "Captain Red"
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Changing colors
Well, we have gone from the colors of the ocean via deep blue, light blue and dolphins to "creamed coffee" and green borders of the river and GATORS!
Yep, as we were cruising down the mobile river, past downtown Mobile AL about 30 NM, I was preparing lunch and looking out the galley window and what did I see....a big ass gator laying on the banks of the river. After we passed, he dove in. I was continuously checking our dinghy to see if we had an unwelcomed passenger.
When we departed, Ed was pretty tense as he was trying to remember everything that Captain Larry had told him about the engine and all the systems. Friends Barry and Vince were a great blessing to assist. Lisa; mean time just prepared meals, piloted the boat off the dock and up river as well as stopped occasionally to clean up. No worries.
So, this evening, we have dropped anchor in a little bayou and as I look up river, there's these little tents along the shore. I wonder; are they making moonshine or what?
I did get to request my first bridge opening to a "swingbridge master". "Bridgemaster, this is motor vessel Great Mates, when is your next opening?" After about 6 minutes, he opened the bridge so we could pass through. COOL!
Tomorrow, we will journey thru some locks. Whewhoo; that will be so cool!
As for this evening; we have all had enough wine and food to sleep well.
God's peace, Lisa
Yep, as we were cruising down the mobile river, past downtown Mobile AL about 30 NM, I was preparing lunch and looking out the galley window and what did I see....a big ass gator laying on the banks of the river. After we passed, he dove in. I was continuously checking our dinghy to see if we had an unwelcomed passenger.
When we departed, Ed was pretty tense as he was trying to remember everything that Captain Larry had told him about the engine and all the systems. Friends Barry and Vince were a great blessing to assist. Lisa; mean time just prepared meals, piloted the boat off the dock and up river as well as stopped occasionally to clean up. No worries.
So, this evening, we have dropped anchor in a little bayou and as I look up river, there's these little tents along the shore. I wonder; are they making moonshine or what?
I did get to request my first bridge opening to a "swingbridge master". "Bridgemaster, this is motor vessel Great Mates, when is your next opening?" After about 6 minutes, he opened the bridge so we could pass through. COOL!
Tomorrow, we will journey thru some locks. Whewhoo; that will be so cool!
As for this evening; we have all had enough wine and food to sleep well.
God's peace, Lisa
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Calm waters in Mobile AL
It's Tuesday, May 5th and we pulled into this little marina last night about 4:00 p.m. in Mobile AL.
Lisa steered Great Mates up the channel which was about 7 nm long, keeping her steady between the markers and then docked her with Captain Larry's great coaching. I just have to keep reminding myself, she backs to starboard and turns to port.
Once Larry and Ed tied her up, we all had a few cocktails then headed over to the marina restaurant for a nice dinner. MAN, it tasted good and oh, it was so nice eating without hanging on to our plates and cups. TIP! We learned a new use for duct tape. A half or third used roll of duct tape makes a great cup holder!
We shut down the engine and connected to shore power and all slept well. Poor Larry and Ed had been up since about 4:00 a.m. Monday morning.
Friday, Saturday and Sunday we cruised from the Keys around the Dry Tortugas and through the Gulf of Mexico straight up to the Mobile Bay. We all took our watch times keeping an eye on the radar and out the windows for other ships.
During one of my times on watch, (8:00 p.m. to 12:00 midnight) I went up to the flybridge chair and just gazed at the stars. I looked around 360 degrees and all I could see was water. Not one other ship, bouy, NOTHING but water. How humbling to be on a 55' motor vessel in the middle of the ocean all alone. (not!)
During the days, we sure enjoyed watching the flying fish scamp across the water in bunches. Seeing them reminds me of seeing a rock skip. Then a few times a day we'd have dolphins visit us and make us laugh with their acrobatics in the water. They would take turns jumping in front of the bow and swimming along side, manuvering for the lead. Lisa would sing to them but who knows if they could hear.
I got to see a flying fish up close and personal when I opened the starboard side pilot house door and one was dead on the deck. They are very colorful fish, deep blue and are about 12 - 14".
On Sunday we had a delightful baby bird visit us. He just sat on the rail and rested. I don't know what kind of bird it was but it looked similar to a blue bird with an orange throat and blue wings and a squished little face. He would come an go over several hours. Lisa got him some bread crumbs and a bowl of fresh water but we never saw him eat or drink. Larry told us it's not a good sign for a bird to stay aboard long as it will get sea sick and not be able to fly away. So, we were glad when he left.
Meals have been very simple. Captain Larry told Lisa to stay out of the galley as that was contributing to the quezzy feeling. So, for Saturday and Sunday he and Ed cooked simple meals.
Of course, we lost mobile phone service once we were south of the Keys and didn't regain it until we got into Mobile Bay, so the blog couldn't be updated then.
We had two mechanical failures. One was the sea water circulating pump which cools the fresh water in the engine and hence lost about half of the impellor which caused the engine to run warm (about 205 degrees) (normallly about 192). So about 5:00 a.m., Captain Larry woke Ed and said, "we've got to change the impellor". (Ed had just gotten off watch at 4:00 and slept for about 40 minutes).
Second, the starboard paravane wench failed, right in the middle of operation. Therefore, Ed took the motor off, covered the box and manually raised the pole with ropes. Fortunately, most of the time, we needed the port paravane since the wind was coming from that side so it kept us from rolling a bit more.
Beyond that, while at dock today, we've hired a diver to check out the propellor for a vibration Ed felt. (Lisa thought our bed was just one of those beds that you put a quarter in and it vibrates) The diver says it's fine but possibly the stern bearing needs replacement. No worries, it can be done once we get to our final destination.
Today is a sad day for me and an anxious day for Ed as our wonderful Captain Larry Briggs will be leaving to fly back to Ft. Lauderdale to tend to his boat, Neptunes Chariot. She is a 75' custom-built trawler yaght that is magnificent. He has to continue her renovation which is nearly complete. He will take her to Malasia to complete the job and depart FL before hurricane season starts. He will take a crew of about four with him. They will leave Ft. Lauderdale, go to the Panama Canal, then cross the Pacific to Malasia. That will take him about 10 weeks. They will stop 6 - 8 places for 2 to 3 days each. Of course we will keep in touch as we've become good friends during this journey.
Friends Vince DeFelice and Barry Aydt are in flight on their way to meet us at the marina here in Mobile and will be our crew to take "Great Mates II" up the rivers to Kentucky Lake.
Once I figure out how to add video or pictures to this blog, I will do so.
God's blessings and peace to all,
Lisa
Lisa steered Great Mates up the channel which was about 7 nm long, keeping her steady between the markers and then docked her with Captain Larry's great coaching. I just have to keep reminding myself, she backs to starboard and turns to port.
Once Larry and Ed tied her up, we all had a few cocktails then headed over to the marina restaurant for a nice dinner. MAN, it tasted good and oh, it was so nice eating without hanging on to our plates and cups. TIP! We learned a new use for duct tape. A half or third used roll of duct tape makes a great cup holder!
We shut down the engine and connected to shore power and all slept well. Poor Larry and Ed had been up since about 4:00 a.m. Monday morning.
Friday, Saturday and Sunday we cruised from the Keys around the Dry Tortugas and through the Gulf of Mexico straight up to the Mobile Bay. We all took our watch times keeping an eye on the radar and out the windows for other ships.
During one of my times on watch, (8:00 p.m. to 12:00 midnight) I went up to the flybridge chair and just gazed at the stars. I looked around 360 degrees and all I could see was water. Not one other ship, bouy, NOTHING but water. How humbling to be on a 55' motor vessel in the middle of the ocean all alone. (not!)
During the days, we sure enjoyed watching the flying fish scamp across the water in bunches. Seeing them reminds me of seeing a rock skip. Then a few times a day we'd have dolphins visit us and make us laugh with their acrobatics in the water. They would take turns jumping in front of the bow and swimming along side, manuvering for the lead. Lisa would sing to them but who knows if they could hear.
I got to see a flying fish up close and personal when I opened the starboard side pilot house door and one was dead on the deck. They are very colorful fish, deep blue and are about 12 - 14".
On Sunday we had a delightful baby bird visit us. He just sat on the rail and rested. I don't know what kind of bird it was but it looked similar to a blue bird with an orange throat and blue wings and a squished little face. He would come an go over several hours. Lisa got him some bread crumbs and a bowl of fresh water but we never saw him eat or drink. Larry told us it's not a good sign for a bird to stay aboard long as it will get sea sick and not be able to fly away. So, we were glad when he left.
Meals have been very simple. Captain Larry told Lisa to stay out of the galley as that was contributing to the quezzy feeling. So, for Saturday and Sunday he and Ed cooked simple meals.
Of course, we lost mobile phone service once we were south of the Keys and didn't regain it until we got into Mobile Bay, so the blog couldn't be updated then.
We had two mechanical failures. One was the sea water circulating pump which cools the fresh water in the engine and hence lost about half of the impellor which caused the engine to run warm (about 205 degrees) (normallly about 192). So about 5:00 a.m., Captain Larry woke Ed and said, "we've got to change the impellor". (Ed had just gotten off watch at 4:00 and slept for about 40 minutes).
Second, the starboard paravane wench failed, right in the middle of operation. Therefore, Ed took the motor off, covered the box and manually raised the pole with ropes. Fortunately, most of the time, we needed the port paravane since the wind was coming from that side so it kept us from rolling a bit more.
Beyond that, while at dock today, we've hired a diver to check out the propellor for a vibration Ed felt. (Lisa thought our bed was just one of those beds that you put a quarter in and it vibrates) The diver says it's fine but possibly the stern bearing needs replacement. No worries, it can be done once we get to our final destination.
Today is a sad day for me and an anxious day for Ed as our wonderful Captain Larry Briggs will be leaving to fly back to Ft. Lauderdale to tend to his boat, Neptunes Chariot. She is a 75' custom-built trawler yaght that is magnificent. He has to continue her renovation which is nearly complete. He will take her to Malasia to complete the job and depart FL before hurricane season starts. He will take a crew of about four with him. They will leave Ft. Lauderdale, go to the Panama Canal, then cross the Pacific to Malasia. That will take him about 10 weeks. They will stop 6 - 8 places for 2 to 3 days each. Of course we will keep in touch as we've become good friends during this journey.
Friends Vince DeFelice and Barry Aydt are in flight on their way to meet us at the marina here in Mobile and will be our crew to take "Great Mates II" up the rivers to Kentucky Lake.
Once I figure out how to add video or pictures to this blog, I will do so.
God's blessings and peace to all,
Lisa
Friday, May 1, 2009
Rockin and Rollin
9:30 Thursday morning.Lisa blew the horns and we began our cruise out of the Intercoastal Waterway (ICW, then headed out of Port Everglades into the open ocean. We dropped the paravanes (sp?) and Captain Larry said, look ahead at the color of water and how it is different than here....that's Gulf Stream. So even though we were full speed ahead, we were only cruising at 4 nmpr. We were rocking side to side about 12-15 degrees and we were pitching at about 18 degrees. Then one of the hooks that holds the power dinghy broke. So, Ed climbed out into the dinghy while still underway and secured it. No worries, his life insurance is paid up.
Then Captain suggested that we take up the paravanes because they were slowing our speed so up top he and Ed went but the motors that function the paravanes weren't working. A fuse? A burned out motor? They brought up one paravane manually with a rope and Friday, they would work on finding out what's wrong.
Mid-afternoon, Ed and I were both feeling a little sick (even though I had patch on).
Ed threw up, then me. So for dinner, I just had little bites of bread and drank soda water to settle my stomach.
Captain Larry said, check the starboard side....bunched of dolphins. There must have been 20 of them playing along side our boat. We also saw a massive sea turtle just swimming along.
Watch schedule:
Ed covers from 12 - 4, then Larry from 4-8, then Lisa from 8 - 12.
We map out our journey, then enter it into the GPS, then put the boat on auto-pilot. We note points like lighthouses and buoys. Ed and Larry take turns fueling the day tank from the main fuel tanks. We're burning about 150 gal per day.
Sleeping was not a problems, the boat rocks you to sleep.
Taking a shower this morning for me was a new experience for sure. Forget about shaving legs,,,,it's just too rough.But oh how beautiful out here.
Listening....what do I hear. The sound of the waves, the creeking of the boat and a deep blowing sound as a result of the dry stack and the wind blowing around it.
Looking....what do I see. Deep blue ocean water, Baby blue skies, magnificant sun, more dolphins and ocean swells about 5-6 feet.
We are about 24 nm from Key West, then we'll go around and start up the gulf side. We will likely arrive in Mobile Bay on Tuesday cruising 24 hours a day.
God's blessing to al, Lisa
Then Captain suggested that we take up the paravanes because they were slowing our speed so up top he and Ed went but the motors that function the paravanes weren't working. A fuse? A burned out motor? They brought up one paravane manually with a rope and Friday, they would work on finding out what's wrong.
Mid-afternoon, Ed and I were both feeling a little sick (even though I had patch on).
Ed threw up, then me. So for dinner, I just had little bites of bread and drank soda water to settle my stomach.
Captain Larry said, check the starboard side....bunched of dolphins. There must have been 20 of them playing along side our boat. We also saw a massive sea turtle just swimming along.
Watch schedule:
Ed covers from 12 - 4, then Larry from 4-8, then Lisa from 8 - 12.
We map out our journey, then enter it into the GPS, then put the boat on auto-pilot. We note points like lighthouses and buoys. Ed and Larry take turns fueling the day tank from the main fuel tanks. We're burning about 150 gal per day.
Sleeping was not a problems, the boat rocks you to sleep.
Taking a shower this morning for me was a new experience for sure. Forget about shaving legs,,,,it's just too rough.But oh how beautiful out here.
Listening....what do I hear. The sound of the waves, the creeking of the boat and a deep blowing sound as a result of the dry stack and the wind blowing around it.
Looking....what do I see. Deep blue ocean water, Baby blue skies, magnificant sun, more dolphins and ocean swells about 5-6 feet.
We are about 24 nm from Key West, then we'll go around and start up the gulf side. We will likely arrive in Mobile Bay on Tuesday cruising 24 hours a day.
God's blessing to al, Lisa
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
dAY 7 - Getting ready to depart....
Well yesterday and today have been most interesting. We are stil in port in Ft. Lauderdale.
Back track....
In our little port is like a little town. We have "Jim" the playboy who drives a corvet down from Onterio...without wife. He has a fishing boat and he and and his account friend just left this morning for Key West...."to do some damage".
Then there is Gloria. She appears to be the local "massage therapist" by day but something else by afternoon or night. It's like a little "Peyton Place".
None-the-less...tomorrow morning we set "sail". Actually cruise.
we've learned much from "Captain Larry"...the previous owner of our boat. We have boarded his boat; an 80' Trawler that is magnificent. Someday.
So, we went to several marine stores, purchased charts, etc. in preparation of our departure. It's funny; Larry has cruised around the world twice, but he says he wouldn't want to cruise up the rivers because it would make him nervous. Interestingly, today over lunch we talked of his experience in Malaisia during the sunomiee (sp) and he was there on the boat we just purchased. He said that at one point in the afternoon, the water dropped about 30 feet. Then about 15 minutes later, it rose 30 feet. He and "our boat" was tied up at the Malasia Marina (new) so the depth and pilings were substantial. He said that the water rose and lowered every 15 minutes for about 3 hours. He says he wasn't scared; just paid attention. Such adventure.
Well more tomorrow as we cruise.
God's blessing, Lisa
Back track....
In our little port is like a little town. We have "Jim" the playboy who drives a corvet down from Onterio...without wife. He has a fishing boat and he and and his account friend just left this morning for Key West...."to do some damage".
Then there is Gloria. She appears to be the local "massage therapist" by day but something else by afternoon or night. It's like a little "Peyton Place".
None-the-less...tomorrow morning we set "sail". Actually cruise.
we've learned much from "Captain Larry"...the previous owner of our boat. We have boarded his boat; an 80' Trawler that is magnificent. Someday.
So, we went to several marine stores, purchased charts, etc. in preparation of our departure. It's funny; Larry has cruised around the world twice, but he says he wouldn't want to cruise up the rivers because it would make him nervous. Interestingly, today over lunch we talked of his experience in Malaisia during the sunomiee (sp) and he was there on the boat we just purchased. He said that at one point in the afternoon, the water dropped about 30 feet. Then about 15 minutes later, it rose 30 feet. He and "our boat" was tied up at the Malasia Marina (new) so the depth and pilings were substantial. He said that the water rose and lowered every 15 minutes for about 3 hours. He says he wasn't scared; just paid attention. Such adventure.
Well more tomorrow as we cruise.
God's blessing, Lisa
Monday, April 27, 2009
Day 5 - at the end of the day
Oh may gosh!!!! Today was SO exciting! We cast off the lines and Larry gave Lisa the wheel. I steered our boat=to=be down the ICW ("Inter Coastal Waterway"). She is amazingly easy to manuvuear. I did a complete turn and later backed her in the slip space. She reponded in a most excellent way. The, we took on fuel...almost 1800 gallons. At the port side fueling up, I heard Ed say, "okay stop!" I was down in the Master State Room watching the fuel level rise on the tank gage. I went up to the main deck and ask Ed, "what happened?". He said, "this is fuel on the deck...we overflowed a little". So, Larry and I started putting dish washing soap on the side of the boat, then washing it down as well as squirting dish soap in the water and spraying water in it to dilute it. I ask Larry, "can we get fined for this?" He said, "yes, but it's still my boat so I would get fined, not you".
After that ordeal, then the sign removal guy arrived with hair dryer in hand. he took off the old lettering to prepare for new lettering tomorrow. Tomorrow is a big day... we will close on the acquisition of our live-a-board boat. Whewhoo! Thanks for joining us on our journey. God's peace, Lisa
After that ordeal, then the sign removal guy arrived with hair dryer in hand. he took off the old lettering to prepare for new lettering tomorrow. Tomorrow is a big day... we will close on the acquisition of our live-a-board boat. Whewhoo! Thanks for joining us on our journey. God's peace, Lisa
Day 5 - Almost ready
Yesterday, (Sunday) was another mega busy day. More shopping (groceries this time), more unloading, more cleaning, and we enjoyed our first meal on Great Mates II. She's almost ready for our cruise. We are still awaiting some final documentation from Malasia (the country in which she was flagged) and we should close late today or tomorrow, then depart, weather permiting on Wednesday morning. Today Ed will silicone down the new lamps, flower vases, etc. so they remain in their places while we are underway. Ed tells me that when he was in the Navy, everytime they got underway, the ship played the theme from "Rocky". I'm thinking about a theme for us....any ideas? God's peace, Lisa
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Day 3 - Provisioning
Today and mostly yesterday was all about provisioning. Yesterday, Ed told me, "Lisa, I can't shop anymore". Hence, I told him, you go have a cocktail and I'll complete the shopping".
Next day. This is Saturday and it's been a whirlwind. We began our day at a little ocean side breakfast place and then proceeded to the boat to unload all of the purchases from yesterday. WHEW!
Then,after unloading and cleaning out kitchen cuppords and making up ALL four beds with the new linens I'd purchased from Lands End, washed, ironed and folded, I made them all up. How pretty they all look!
Then it was off for more shopping. The Gallaria Mall, Pottery Barn, etc. picking up more items needed. Off to another mini mall, pruchasing more. Then canme ABC and the big purchase for the trip....LIQUOR!
We contacted Larry and once again unloaded.
OH, we are getting so tired.
Day is done and we have finished dinner which we purchased at Publix, drank some wine, talked of the day and crashed early. Tomorrow, more provisioning, organizing, etc.
Another day unfolding our dream. God provides. Oh, and we talked with son-in-law Billy who is overseas serving our country. He overlooks the Himilayan mountains.
Lisa
Next day. This is Saturday and it's been a whirlwind. We began our day at a little ocean side breakfast place and then proceeded to the boat to unload all of the purchases from yesterday. WHEW!
Then,after unloading and cleaning out kitchen cuppords and making up ALL four beds with the new linens I'd purchased from Lands End, washed, ironed and folded, I made them all up. How pretty they all look!
Then it was off for more shopping. The Gallaria Mall, Pottery Barn, etc. picking up more items needed. Off to another mini mall, pruchasing more. Then canme ABC and the big purchase for the trip....LIQUOR!
We contacted Larry and once again unloaded.
OH, we are getting so tired.
Day is done and we have finished dinner which we purchased at Publix, drank some wine, talked of the day and crashed early. Tomorrow, more provisioning, organizing, etc.
Another day unfolding our dream. God provides. Oh, and we talked with son-in-law Billy who is overseas serving our country. He overlooks the Himilayan mountains.
Lisa
Friday, April 24, 2009
Day 1 - travel to FL - boat broker oddity!
Thursday morning, Lucas dropped us at Indianapolis Airport, headed for Ft. Lauderdale.
Upon arrival, our boat broker, John Earle picked us up and we headed to his office. In route, our banker, Gavin texted me and said the wire transfer for funds to the brokers escrow account was in process. Great timing. We arrived to the broker office and met Betsy the office manager. She said, "oh, your wire has just now come through, all is well". Isn't that amazing that as we walk in the wired funds were complete?
John our broker called the documentation agent, Amalia to determine if a scanned/emailed copy of the deletion document now signed by the Malasian government was okay in order that she may begin the documentation with the US Coast Guard for our new boat and she confirmed, yes,that would be fine. Great, we won't have to wait on "snail mail" so the appropriate documents can be mailed from Malasia to the US so we can close on our transaction.
See, the boat (now known as "Chartwell" is "flagged in Malasia" and we can't close on it until it is deleted from Malasian records)
Anyway, we headed to lunch and enroute, John, Ed and I got to know one another, families, etc. To make a long story shorter, John mentioned that his parents (from Vermont) had moved to Panama and we building a home there. We said, "well, our friends Ken and Chipper Gregory had also purchased land in Panama a few years ago with the hope of someday building a home there". John said, "well, my parents just got a little concerned about the way things were going in the US and decided to try this for a while". "They moved to a town called "Boquetta" (sp). We said, "wow, that wierd, that's where our friends also purchased land". John said, "hugh, what are there names?" We responded. He then called his mom and ask her if she just might know these people. Here's the real WOW to this story.
John, our boat broker in Ft. Lauderdale has parents from Vermont who have moved to the country Panama and built a house and it is right next door to our friends from Greenwood IN, the Gregorys and the land they have purchased! The Earles and the Gregorys have had cocktails on the Earles back porch and their realtive, Peter who also has built a home there emails with Ken Gregory monthy. Peter and his cousin John, our boat broker grew up together as best friends.
For those who read this who know me understand that I believe that there is no coincidence in life....only Gods plan unfolding before our eyes if we chose to let it happen.
May God have the glory.
Peace, Lisa
Upon arrival, our boat broker, John Earle picked us up and we headed to his office. In route, our banker, Gavin texted me and said the wire transfer for funds to the brokers escrow account was in process. Great timing. We arrived to the broker office and met Betsy the office manager. She said, "oh, your wire has just now come through, all is well". Isn't that amazing that as we walk in the wired funds were complete?
John our broker called the documentation agent, Amalia to determine if a scanned/emailed copy of the deletion document now signed by the Malasian government was okay in order that she may begin the documentation with the US Coast Guard for our new boat and she confirmed, yes,that would be fine. Great, we won't have to wait on "snail mail" so the appropriate documents can be mailed from Malasia to the US so we can close on our transaction.
See, the boat (now known as "Chartwell" is "flagged in Malasia" and we can't close on it until it is deleted from Malasian records)
Anyway, we headed to lunch and enroute, John, Ed and I got to know one another, families, etc. To make a long story shorter, John mentioned that his parents (from Vermont) had moved to Panama and we building a home there. We said, "well, our friends Ken and Chipper Gregory had also purchased land in Panama a few years ago with the hope of someday building a home there". John said, "well, my parents just got a little concerned about the way things were going in the US and decided to try this for a while". "They moved to a town called "Boquetta" (sp). We said, "wow, that wierd, that's where our friends also purchased land". John said, "hugh, what are there names?" We responded. He then called his mom and ask her if she just might know these people. Here's the real WOW to this story.
John, our boat broker in Ft. Lauderdale has parents from Vermont who have moved to the country Panama and built a house and it is right next door to our friends from Greenwood IN, the Gregorys and the land they have purchased! The Earles and the Gregorys have had cocktails on the Earles back porch and their realtive, Peter who also has built a home there emails with Ken Gregory monthy. Peter and his cousin John, our boat broker grew up together as best friends.
For those who read this who know me understand that I believe that there is no coincidence in life....only Gods plan unfolding before our eyes if we chose to let it happen.
May God have the glory.
Peace, Lisa
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Beginning
Ed and I depart tomorrow for Ft. Lauderdale so we can begin the process of closing on our new boat! We are SO excited as God is unfolding before us our dream of the last 6 years to purchase a live-a-board boat and explore and learn. If you wish to comment, please do so. Otherwise, we will keep you posted as to our journey.
God's peace, Lisa
God's peace, Lisa
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