Pre-departure breakfast of champions

Fortification for the final push to the end of the must do list. Delicious. Thank you.

Weather

As the proposed departure date (Tuesday) approaches I have been keeping a close eye on both the tropical and offshore forecast. This morning they started forecasting 4-6 ft seas for Wednesday. (Now up to 5-8 ft). In light of this we had to decide if we were going to wait until late in the week to leave - or whether we should rush to depart and they wait for the seas to calm down in Provincetown. Desiring a vacation and a walk on the beach we are rushing to complete pre-departure chores and checklists for a Sunday departure.

Proposed Route South

Here it is - the Google Maps edition of our planned trip South - subject to change pending weather and life. The general idea is offshore stretches of sailing from Maine to the Chesapeake. Then take the ICW inside from Norfolk to Cape Fear so we don't have to wait for a weather window to avoid Cape Hatteras. Finally we will sail outside until we arrive in the Miami area where we will create a new plan to enjoy any remaining days. The anchors mark locations we want to explore in Southern Florida. All of this planning might change because Ballantine is joining us - and she has yet to take a "walk" on the boat, so doggie bodily functions could change everything. Stay tuned!
View Proposed Route South in a larger map There is more information embedded in the map so click away! 

Ballantine

Ballantine snuggled on her cushion in her companionway- feels secure while the boat rolls with the swells.

Port Clyde, Maine

Anchored off of Port Clyde after first real test run of new engine down the St. George river.

Main, jib and mizzen bent on!

Mizzen sail cozy

                                                                                                   Here it is! The installed mizzen sail cover.  I am so pleased with how it turned out. If you will remember it was on my to do list #3. After more cursing at the sewing machine - and adjustment of every possible knob and moveable part - here it is! 

In process:



First on my living room floor  -




Then the great zipper installation.. not as scary as I expected! I went on to sew in two additional zippers on the leading edge.

Next up: Mainsail cover!