Hello from anchorage A9 in San Diego! We have procured a FREE 30 day permit to anchor next to the USCG station in San Diego reserved for cruisers whose boats are registered outside of San Diego county. This anchorage holds only 20 boats and we are 1 of 12 sitting on the beautiful bay front of the city. This city has the most beautiful waterfront bordering the city at night.....even if it wasn't Christmas with all the high-rise lights and etc. it's got to be a beautiful site year round.
As you know we decided to return to S.D. after entering Mexican waters as the NOAA weather report had been totally wrong and we hit some nasty confused seas...confused seas my a - s! They knew EXACTLY what they were doing crashing over the bow, stern, port and starboard, sideways and EVERY way........
Anyway, we still have our desperately defective SEAWARD stove that needs to be repaired.! We've been calling Defender and Seaward for MONTHS now with problems we are having with it, and FINALLY "Tom" the rep at Seaward said he would meet us as SOON as we got to SD and take care of it...I called him as soon as we were checked in with the Harbor Police and Tom said our arrival was "bad timing for him" and told us he would send someone else down ASAP, since he had been in SD all day the day before. We eagerly awaited the repairman and even though we had supplies we had to procure, we made sure we had the phone with us at ALL TIMES, so we wouldn't miss the call AND the opportunity to get our BRAND NEW yet poorly designed/manufactured stove's issues repaired.....Well, all I can say right now so I won't get my panties in a bunch over this, SEAWARD STOVES SUCK AND THEIR CUSTOMER SERVICE IS WORSE---We plan on telling EVERY cruiser we meet in the world NOT to even THINK about buying a stove from SEAWARD...........harumph!!!!!!!!
With issues going on with the boat, flooding rains for 2 days, short tempers and rapidly depleting funds, Jay and I are getting frustrated....so it was nice to get a friendly invitation to share Christmas Eve dinner with Tammie, her mom Lynn and her husband Richard.......
We had a lovely prime rib dinner last night with them and enjoyed a great Christmas eve filled with interesting conversation over cocktails. Richard gave us a great book on cruising yacht systems by Nigel Calder. Jay has had his nose buried in it all morning. I thinks he likes it! We will now tackle the current fuel tanks bilge water intrusion problem!
Merry Christmas to all!
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Stormy Weather
Here we sit stuck once again, but this could be a good thing. Where we are anchored at present is maybe not where we are supposed to be, maybe. When arriving back in San Diego we headed to an anchorage that a local sailor told us about on past the Coronado Bridge. While following the channel towards the bridge a navy tug was approaching us pulling a long string of floating tanks with wheels protruding horizontally out the sides. I could not see the end of the string due to a bend in the channel ahead on our starboard side. It appeared that the tug was swinging wide to clear the bend. This turned out not to be the case. As we approached the tug contacted me and informed me not to maintain my current course because I was about to enter a portable ship berth. He then instructed me to pass on his starboard side, which I did. As we cleared the barge a Navy Patrol boat proceeded at a high rate of speed towards us, but upon closing slowed and stopped,just watching. My thoughts at this time were not pleasant. I am not one who likes authority figures, especially when I might have, unknowingly violated some obscure rule. My WHEW! didn't last long, when once again the patrol boat all of the sudden shot forward circling around between us and the string of floats. They slowed , pulling along side and asked very politely, if we would move further to port due to an approaching ship around the bend. I guess they were the Navy traffic control police. Before turning to port I asked the officer exactly where the anchorage was on the other side of the bridge. She replied that there was no anchorage there. Great, running way into the bay, with water in the fuel, to a nonexistent anchorage.What next? As I was turning around to head back towards the ocean the patrol boat rapidly returned and informed me that the anchorage we were seeking was on the right on the other side of the bridge. Cool, that confirmed what we were told. We anchored in 15' of water at low tide above the bridge. That evening the storm hit and has been getting worse as the hours pass.
It is now the second day here and the storm still rages. I have not had much sleep, due to not trusting the anchor completely and keeping a vigilant eye on its holding. About two hundred yards behind us lies the bridge columns which would wreak havoc on Wind Raven should the anchor pull loose. This morning we located another anchorage that is more protected, but are waiting for the wind and rain to abate a bit before attempting to move. The wind is supposed to die off around 7 or 8 this morning. Until then I will stay vigilant comforting myself with the fact that Judy is getting the rest she deserves and so desperately needs. She got up around 2am and sat with me for a couple of hours. She finally gave in to sleep and is now making those content sleeping sounds.Last night she was reading through some information on the anchorage areas in the area and discovered a discrepancy on which side of the bridge the designated anchorage is. We were planning on moving to a free 30 day anchorage to make repairs, but as stated we are stuck here for now. Man, it's really blowing hard out there. Besides the US Navy said it was here!
It is now the second day here and the storm still rages. I have not had much sleep, due to not trusting the anchor completely and keeping a vigilant eye on its holding. About two hundred yards behind us lies the bridge columns which would wreak havoc on Wind Raven should the anchor pull loose. This morning we located another anchorage that is more protected, but are waiting for the wind and rain to abate a bit before attempting to move. The wind is supposed to die off around 7 or 8 this morning. Until then I will stay vigilant comforting myself with the fact that Judy is getting the rest she deserves and so desperately needs. She got up around 2am and sat with me for a couple of hours. She finally gave in to sleep and is now making those content sleeping sounds.Last night she was reading through some information on the anchorage areas in the area and discovered a discrepancy on which side of the bridge the designated anchorage is. We were planning on moving to a free 30 day anchorage to make repairs, but as stated we are stuck here for now. Man, it's really blowing hard out there. Besides the US Navy said it was here!
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
The best made plans!
Yep, we are in San Diego looking for an inexpensive moorage where we can make repairs. We left SD at two in the morning 29.5 hrs ago. As we were rounding the first point about 15 miles out I discovered my gasket material on the fuel tank inspection covers had failed. Yep, water in the fuel again. Upon this discovery we decided to head back to SD. This decision was based on the seas being confused with 3' wind waves and around 4' swells running at 4 to 4.5 seconds and we were beating into the wind. Definitely not a comfortable ride. Especially for poor Judy, who was definitely beyond "green around the gills". I don't know why she insisted on chumming so much when I wasn't even fishing!
You know this reminded me of our friends ride from Newport to Charleston. Steve was at the helm in really nasty stormy weather for that portion, while Lulu was curled up below and occasionally "feeding the fishes". What is funny, is that we had the identical experience on that section of our the trip. They also had transmission troubles (Loosing Fluid). Yep, so did we. Hmm, I wonder? Maybe I should pay closer attention to their trials and tribulations. On the other hand, maybe I should pay less attention. You know, the KINEHORA aspect. Judy toooo!
Today we will secure a place and procure some GOOD gasket material. I am also getting a small amount of diesel fuel into the oil after engine shut down. I believe this to be caused by the high pressure injection pump. At the same time I am hoping it to be an injector. This of course is "yet to be seen". But hey, life is a test, right?
Hope you all have a better day!
You know this reminded me of our friends ride from Newport to Charleston. Steve was at the helm in really nasty stormy weather for that portion, while Lulu was curled up below and occasionally "feeding the fishes". What is funny, is that we had the identical experience on that section of our the trip. They also had transmission troubles (Loosing Fluid). Yep, so did we. Hmm, I wonder? Maybe I should pay closer attention to their trials and tribulations. On the other hand, maybe I should pay less attention. You know, the KINEHORA aspect. Judy toooo!
Today we will secure a place and procure some GOOD gasket material. I am also getting a small amount of diesel fuel into the oil after engine shut down. I believe this to be caused by the high pressure injection pump. At the same time I am hoping it to be an injector. This of course is "yet to be seen". But hey, life is a test, right?
Hope you all have a better day!
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Adios USA.....we hope!
By this time tomorrow we should be tucked in at a marina in Ensenada, Mexico. We called and there seems to be plenty of slips available. It is only about seventy miles from San Diego. We figure it will take us around ten hours to get there, give or take an hour or so. The weather isn't the best, but not that bad after midnight tonight. If it lays down to 20 to 25 knots, like it's supposed to, we will be off. Some say we are off anyway. But what do they know that we don't? Hell, they're sitting home on the couch watching re-runs of someone else's adventures!
As of the 20th we will no longer have Internet service on a steady basis. It will be wi-fi from here on out. This will be a new experience, so please be patient with us until we get the hang of it. Once we leave Ensenada, it could be seven to ten days before we can post on the blog. Our phone service will also change from nation wide to nation wide plus Mexico. Sounds good, but it has major changes in minutes available. We loose a considerable amount. As a result we will be forced to only make/accept business calls only, during the day. All personal communications will have to be after 9pm and before 6am. We have had several unexpected major expenses in the last month or so and must tighten our belts, so to speak.
As of the 20th we will no longer have Internet service on a steady basis. It will be wi-fi from here on out. This will be a new experience, so please be patient with us until we get the hang of it. Once we leave Ensenada, it could be seven to ten days before we can post on the blog. Our phone service will also change from nation wide to nation wide plus Mexico. Sounds good, but it has major changes in minutes available. We loose a considerable amount. As a result we will be forced to only make/accept business calls only, during the day. All personal communications will have to be after 9pm and before 6am. We have had several unexpected major expenses in the last month or so and must tighten our belts, so to speak.
Saturday, December 18, 2010
South
Our time is up, here at the Harbor Police dock, so we will be heading for Ensenada on the 19th to get our visas, temporary import permit etc. It is supposed to rain all next week. Oh well, It's not like we aren't used to rain, right?
We picked up our fishing licences yesterday in San Diego. Now we will be able to fish once we cross the border into Mexico. It's hard to believe that the fishing licences for foreigners are cheaper than resident fishing licences in Oregon. Also the regulations are so uncomplicated. They are short and to the point, only one page long! You don't even have to consult an attorney prior to dipping a line. It is also my understanding that they don't even change them daily, they stay the same ALL YEAR. Not like in Oregon, where you have to check on line for regulation changes every morning before you go out. How refreshing. Back to basics, what a novel concept. I think I'm going to like this, so called, backwards country.
Brad, the watermaker man, did an excellent job on our machine. It is my understanding that the particle content is supposed to be under four hundred to be acceptable. The water here at the Police dock is around four fifty. The water from the bay, after going through our desalinator is one hundred and ninety three. Needless to say, this makes us quite pleased with its performance, and Brads I might add. If anyone needs a reliable repair person, ( he also does wiring, etc.). You can contact him at;
Bradly A Destache (Technician)
2907 Shelter Island Drive 105/107
San Diego CA.92106
Lic #82010016587
619-847-5728
Our SSB Tuner was destroyed by the person who rewired our boat and we were unable to get it repaired. We decided to get a SSB receiver to enable us to receive the weather reports, but there are none available in the San Diego area. I don't know what we are guing to do about that. The teck. who worked on our SSB was supposed to get back in touch with us yesterday, but of course he did'nt keep his word. Most people don't seem to care about their word anymore. What ever happened to personal integrety?
We picked up our fishing licences yesterday in San Diego. Now we will be able to fish once we cross the border into Mexico. It's hard to believe that the fishing licences for foreigners are cheaper than resident fishing licences in Oregon. Also the regulations are so uncomplicated. They are short and to the point, only one page long! You don't even have to consult an attorney prior to dipping a line. It is also my understanding that they don't even change them daily, they stay the same ALL YEAR. Not like in Oregon, where you have to check on line for regulation changes every morning before you go out. How refreshing. Back to basics, what a novel concept. I think I'm going to like this, so called, backwards country.
Brad, the watermaker man, did an excellent job on our machine. It is my understanding that the particle content is supposed to be under four hundred to be acceptable. The water here at the Police dock is around four fifty. The water from the bay, after going through our desalinator is one hundred and ninety three. Needless to say, this makes us quite pleased with its performance, and Brads I might add. If anyone needs a reliable repair person, ( he also does wiring, etc.). You can contact him at;
Bradly A Destache (Technician)
2907 Shelter Island Drive 105/107
San Diego CA.92106
Lic #82010016587
619-847-5728
Our SSB Tuner was destroyed by the person who rewired our boat and we were unable to get it repaired. We decided to get a SSB receiver to enable us to receive the weather reports, but there are none available in the San Diego area. I don't know what we are guing to do about that. The teck. who worked on our SSB was supposed to get back in touch with us yesterday, but of course he did'nt keep his word. Most people don't seem to care about their word anymore. What ever happened to personal integrety?
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Ensenada vs Mission Bay
It looks like we will most likely go to Ensenada for our haul out repairs. The person who was supposed to arrange a haul out at Mission Bay never showed up. The first person (Brad) who was supposed to come by to check out the water maker, worked on it yesterday. He seems very competent and honest, no bullshit. That, my friends, is very refreshing, and rare I might add. He had to send the RO control unit into a shop to have a new one made. That will run around $500. The total cost will be around $1500. That's not bad considering that a comparable unit would cost over $8000. It puts out 20 gal an hour. On the test run yesterday it had a part per million content of 213, under 400 is acceptable. So that's pretty damned good. Especially since it was made in the eighties. I can't believe the pre-filters cost $49 ea. at Home Depot. That's just a regular home water filter, nothing special. I guess it is worth it to get all of those little "nasties" out. Brad is supposed to let me know today when they will have the parts ready. Soon I hope, as we are running out of dock time here. You are only allowed to stay here ten days. We have to leave here on the 18th for the haul out, either here or Ensenada.
We went over to Lynn and Richards for a great meatloaf dinner (prepared by Tammy) last night. It was very enjoyable seeing Lynn again and finally meeting her husband Richard, an exceptionally nice gentleman. They were very gracious hosts and both Judy and I enjoyed the evening tremendously. Their place is very nice with a great back yard. Trees, flowers and shrubs everywhere. We viewed both Tammy's and Lynn's paintings that exhibited a very talented family heritage.
Judy: Wow, what an "answer to prayer" our water maker repairer young man is! We have been worrying about whether we were going to find someone who could get it working again or if we were going to fork out thousands for a new water maker....as our funds become ever more skimpy with all the other "needs" this "demanding mistress" of a boat requires......I was adamant about our need for a water maker on board and Jay agreed, but we were very stressed about what news we would find out about whether it could be "resurected" or if we would have to buy a new unit, most likely one being not as good and most likely some MADE IN CHINA rinky-dink defective unit that would cost a bundle and not deliver the "goods." We know that when Lloyd owned the boat he made sure to buy the best of everything on the market at the time he had it----problem is it was over 20 years ago when he owned the boat and then the last owner, Chris, told us he never even used it the entire five years he owned the boat! This turned out to be a blessing in disguise! It turned out to be "unused" in a kind of mechanical "suspended animation" seemingly waiting to have new life breathed into it again! We found that Chris had not been a very good owner of the boat and many things he just used and used till it was basically used up........then sold the boat to us! So, in effect, his not using the water maker "saved" it for us! Wow, I guess sometimes Guardian Angels are assigned to watch over little things like water makers! And I disagree with Jay in that I have been looking at water maker prices (which are exhorbitant for such a mechanically unsophisticated mechanism) and have not yet found ANY on the market available to common yachties like us today that even come close to producing as much water as this Catalina 500 made by the now defunct "ASC Marine Systems" does. This will be a most excellent thing to own in the Sea of Cortez where we hear very little fresh, clean drinking water is available.
Brad, the "water maker wizard" is a very gracious young man who obviously has lived on a boat and knows the ins and outs of quite a few things regarding them. Usually when non-yachties come on the boat to do work they take over my entire "home" and I feel "displaced" and usually resign myself to the fact that I need to stay top-side or go shopping, etc. to stay out of the way. Not so with this young worker.....he knows how to move around on a boat with other people aboard using the Tai Chi-like movements that Jay and I have been becoming familiar with since moving onto the boat. You other boaters know what I mean.....the graceful, slow, deliberate movements to perambulate about the boat without bumping into and displacing the others on board. Anyway, needless to say I am quite impressed with Brad and can't wait to witness the miracle of life spring up with true "living water" in our fresh water tanks via the repaired water maker.
As Jay mentioned, we had a lovely dinner with Lynn, Richard and Tammy.....and they even served my favorite dessert creme brule----darn I can't find the "accent" marks to spell the French delicacy correctly--oh well.......needless to say it was divine....I think I can truly say it was the best I have ever had.........thank you Lynn and Tammy......and Richard for a wonderful evening of great food and great conversation-----I certainly would love to get to know Lynn and Richard better......many thanks, again to such a wonderful couple!
We went over to Lynn and Richards for a great meatloaf dinner (prepared by Tammy) last night. It was very enjoyable seeing Lynn again and finally meeting her husband Richard, an exceptionally nice gentleman. They were very gracious hosts and both Judy and I enjoyed the evening tremendously. Their place is very nice with a great back yard. Trees, flowers and shrubs everywhere. We viewed both Tammy's and Lynn's paintings that exhibited a very talented family heritage.
Judy: Wow, what an "answer to prayer" our water maker repairer young man is! We have been worrying about whether we were going to find someone who could get it working again or if we were going to fork out thousands for a new water maker....as our funds become ever more skimpy with all the other "needs" this "demanding mistress" of a boat requires......I was adamant about our need for a water maker on board and Jay agreed, but we were very stressed about what news we would find out about whether it could be "resurected" or if we would have to buy a new unit, most likely one being not as good and most likely some MADE IN CHINA rinky-dink defective unit that would cost a bundle and not deliver the "goods." We know that when Lloyd owned the boat he made sure to buy the best of everything on the market at the time he had it----problem is it was over 20 years ago when he owned the boat and then the last owner, Chris, told us he never even used it the entire five years he owned the boat! This turned out to be a blessing in disguise! It turned out to be "unused" in a kind of mechanical "suspended animation" seemingly waiting to have new life breathed into it again! We found that Chris had not been a very good owner of the boat and many things he just used and used till it was basically used up........then sold the boat to us! So, in effect, his not using the water maker "saved" it for us! Wow, I guess sometimes Guardian Angels are assigned to watch over little things like water makers! And I disagree with Jay in that I have been looking at water maker prices (which are exhorbitant for such a mechanically unsophisticated mechanism) and have not yet found ANY on the market available to common yachties like us today that even come close to producing as much water as this Catalina 500 made by the now defunct "ASC Marine Systems" does. This will be a most excellent thing to own in the Sea of Cortez where we hear very little fresh, clean drinking water is available.
Brad, the "water maker wizard" is a very gracious young man who obviously has lived on a boat and knows the ins and outs of quite a few things regarding them. Usually when non-yachties come on the boat to do work they take over my entire "home" and I feel "displaced" and usually resign myself to the fact that I need to stay top-side or go shopping, etc. to stay out of the way. Not so with this young worker.....he knows how to move around on a boat with other people aboard using the Tai Chi-like movements that Jay and I have been becoming familiar with since moving onto the boat. You other boaters know what I mean.....the graceful, slow, deliberate movements to perambulate about the boat without bumping into and displacing the others on board. Anyway, needless to say I am quite impressed with Brad and can't wait to witness the miracle of life spring up with true "living water" in our fresh water tanks via the repaired water maker.
As Jay mentioned, we had a lovely dinner with Lynn, Richard and Tammy.....and they even served my favorite dessert creme brule----darn I can't find the "accent" marks to spell the French delicacy correctly--oh well.......needless to say it was divine....I think I can truly say it was the best I have ever had.........thank you Lynn and Tammy......and Richard for a wonderful evening of great food and great conversation-----I certainly would love to get to know Lynn and Richard better......many thanks, again to such a wonderful couple!
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Just Some Photos
Some days are good..............Others are questionable! I wonder what she is thinking?
Repairs
The plan was to haul out in Ensenada, but I might be able to haul out at a private yard here. Judy and Tammy were having problems trying to fold a sail yesterday and asked a passerby for help. He stopped to help and instructed them on the proper procedure. They got to talking and he offered to try to fix the water maker.
He also offered to help me with the repairs and said he might be able to get the boat hauled here for a decent price at a yard that will let us do our own work. If so, we might do it here instead of Mexico. We have not been hearing good things about Mexico's prices of late. At the Marinas they want from $2 a ft. to $3.50 a ft. a day for a slip. It looks like American greed has reached our southern neighbors.
This is some of the work that has been added to my agenda recently.
11) Clean bilge. (done)
12) Reseal fuel tank inspection covers with butyl tape. Never use 4200 again! (done)
13) Fabricate new lid for raw water filter. (done)
14) Install new Raw water filter. (done)
15) Install new wet muffler. (done)
16) Install new main halyard. (done)
17) Haul out.
18) Install new through hulls.
19) Install Interphase 180 SE.
20) Rebuild/replace seacocks.
21) Stop/seal water leaks. (done)
22) Secure new generator.
23) Sand/paint bottom.
24) Check rudder post.
25) Install new zinks.
26) Install new salt water faucet. (done)
27) Find/stop air leak in upper fuel filter. (done)
28) Replace/rewire inline fuse on fuel pump. (water tight) (done)
29) Replace bilge pump discharge lines. (done)
30) Get water maker up and running. (done)
31) Convert auto discharge to manual discharge. (done)
32) Lord please let this be all.
I'm sure there is something I have omitted, or forgotten, that will rear its ugly head at the most inopportune moment! Today I will meet with the person concerning the haul out and start working on the raw water intake. Damn, this is getting expensive!
Oh! I picked up a couple of Rapalla lures yesterday that are supposed to keep the freezer full of Mahi Mahi and Dorado. That is if we ever get to the Sea of Cortez.
He also offered to help me with the repairs and said he might be able to get the boat hauled here for a decent price at a yard that will let us do our own work. If so, we might do it here instead of Mexico. We have not been hearing good things about Mexico's prices of late. At the Marinas they want from $2 a ft. to $3.50 a ft. a day for a slip. It looks like American greed has reached our southern neighbors.
This is some of the work that has been added to my agenda recently.
11) Clean bilge. (done)
12) Reseal fuel tank inspection covers with butyl tape. Never use 4200 again! (done)
13) Fabricate new lid for raw water filter. (done)
14) Install new Raw water filter. (done)
15) Install new wet muffler. (done)
16) Install new main halyard. (done)
17) Haul out.
18) Install new through hulls.
19) Install Interphase 180 SE.
20) Rebuild/replace seacocks.
21) Stop/seal water leaks. (done)
22) Secure new generator.
23) Sand/paint bottom.
24) Check rudder post.
25) Install new zinks.
26) Install new salt water faucet. (done)
27) Find/stop air leak in upper fuel filter. (done)
28) Replace/rewire inline fuse on fuel pump. (water tight) (done)
29) Replace bilge pump discharge lines. (done)
30) Get water maker up and running. (done)
31) Convert auto discharge to manual discharge. (done)
32) Lord please let this be all.
I'm sure there is something I have omitted, or forgotten, that will rear its ugly head at the most inopportune moment! Today I will meet with the person concerning the haul out and start working on the raw water intake. Damn, this is getting expensive!
Oh! I picked up a couple of Rapalla lures yesterday that are supposed to keep the freezer full of Mahi Mahi and Dorado. That is if we ever get to the Sea of Cortez.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
San Diego
It was up at one in the morning, as I couldn’t sleep. Just anxious to get the hell out of Oceanside, I suppose. To my surprise, Tammy was also having problems sleeping, not a common trait for young ladies it seems, and got up to help me prepare for departure. To my surprise we were joined by Judy, who also arose to help upon hearing us talking. My first concern was to make sure the fuel filters were working properly, as I had problems getting a seal on one I had previously rebuilt. I had tested it the day before, but something was telling me to recheck it. It’s a good thing I did, because after starting the engine I switched over to it and it sucked air and killed the engine. Now our departure would be delayed while I bleed the fuel lines and injectors. We also had to pump out the tank etc. By the time we left it was four in the morning. There was zero wind so we had to motor again. Sometimes I wonder why I bought a sailboat, since there never seems to be any wind. The trip was uneventful, except for all the war ships warning everyone to stay at least five miles distant. The approach to San Diego was clogged with fishing boats and traps. I can’t figure out why they allow the harbor approaches to be clogged up like they do. Maybe they figure it will keep you on your toes. It took a total of eight hours to get here with my head in the bilge and vacuum hose in hand again.
We will be here at least five days to make repairs and install new items we had sent here to Tammy’s place of residence. Here at the Harbor Police Mooring they only charged $52.50 for five days in a very nice slip. This is the best and least expensive to date. What a nice surprise after that hell hole Oceanside.
Tammy’s mother Lynn came by to pick her up, stayed for coffee and a visit. It was nice to see her again after all these years. We invited Tammy to go with us to Mexico, but I had the feeling that Lynn was a bit apprehensive about her going. It’s too bad, as it is a once in a lifetime opportunity for her. Oh well, maybe she can fly down and join us later. It would have been nice to have her to help with watches on the way, but I am being self-serving I suppose and must allow her to make her own unbiased decisions. I will try to take as many nature photos for her paintings as possible on the way. She will drive us around today to get parts and supplies, which is a great help. Being in a strange port afoot is a real pain in the ass, not to mention feet, legs etc. Next port Ensenada Mexico for a haul out and bottom paint.
Now for Judy’s comments.
The first thing I want to say is how thankful I am for having our good friend Russell adopt my little nearly 15-year old blind Dachshund, Pepper, when we found out after trying her out on the boat that it was just not a good place for her to be with her limited vision. She was so happy in her beautiful yard in Eugene having Russ and his friends giving her love and hugs and Russ even taking her fishing and on car rides which she absolutely loved and even taking naps with Pepper in bed (thank you for your sweetness and your tears for my sweet Pepper girl, Russ (And for paying for the vet and funeral costs). Russ’s friend Beth even took her to visit the elderly people she cared for in an assisted living center and we heard that Pepper and the old folks loved visiting each other…..and watching Jancy “cuddle” with Pepper when she watched TV made me very happy knowing Pepper would be well cared for (although still missed by me, her mom). Alas, while in Avalon I got the extremely sad news that Pepper and Russ’s cat Princess were attacked by wild raccoons in my back yard and while Princess was able to escape, Pepper, being blind, was not. After Russ and Beth coming to her rescue and taking her to an emergency vet to their sadness and mine the vet was not able to save her. I was so sad and still am……a few days later while Tammy, Jay and I took a long hike up a canyon in Avalon on Catalina Island we came upon a little curve in the road where off to the side the people of Avalon had created a beautiful little cemetery for their beloved pets and as I walked up to the front of the beautiful site, right there, directly in front of me was a tiny grave with colored rocks with the name “Pepper” spelled out on them! How amazing! I burst into tears and Tammy ran up and took a photo of it and I plan to have it laminated and want to send it to Russell for the memorial site of the best little dog in the world that spent her life loved by all who knew her! She will always be in my heart and thoughts. I KNOW all dogs go to Heaven and we will get together again one day, my dear sweet “Miss Sassy Pepper” (her AKC name, as she was a registered dappled, sable Dachshund). Dream on sweet Pepper, your loving Mommy will be meeting up with you again one day!)
On a lighter note, we hear that our wonderful cat “Boogie” has (finally) made friends with my daughter Moriah’s Chihuahua, Oscar, and Moriah recently got a lab mix puppy for Boogie to play with which she named “Bone.” Moriah tells me that Boogie has become quite spoiled and loves playing and napping with Bone and Oscar! Bet he’s glad to not be puking on the boat and happy sleeping with my granddaughter Haley and Grandson Brandon who tell me they absolutely LOVE my kitty man! Thank you so much Moriah, Darrell, Haley and Brandon for adopting my sweet little Prince, Boogie!
Oceanside to San Diego was beautiful if a bit disconcerting, because of all the war ships, war games, planes and jets doing numerous fly-bys to check us out….at one point I got a kick out of two fighter jets homing in close and Tammy, thinking they were the” Blue Angels” stood up and waved, and with all that beautiful blond hair flying in the wind one jet dipped his wings in greeting at Tammy and flew on---we got a kick out of that one!
In San Diego it was very nice meeting Tammy’s mother Lynn…..after hearing such wonderful things from both Jay and Tammy about her for the past few years. Knowing both Jay and Tammy, I am sure Lynn had her hands full with all of them under the same roof as a family!!!!!! And WOW all three of them were surely blessed with beautiful hair!
Jay and I walked about 2 miles and had a great dinner at a very nice Mexican restaurant last night (with an O’Douls for Jay and a Margarita for me!) and walked back “home” immediately falling into bed exhausted after hardly getting any sleep the night before! So glad to be here with the great moorage rates and hope to get our water maker repaired and other things done like a bit of provisioning and boat work. Tammy has graciously agreed to provide “Taxi” services for us and it will be fun spending more time with her.
We will be here at least five days to make repairs and install new items we had sent here to Tammy’s place of residence. Here at the Harbor Police Mooring they only charged $52.50 for five days in a very nice slip. This is the best and least expensive to date. What a nice surprise after that hell hole Oceanside.
Tammy’s mother Lynn came by to pick her up, stayed for coffee and a visit. It was nice to see her again after all these years. We invited Tammy to go with us to Mexico, but I had the feeling that Lynn was a bit apprehensive about her going. It’s too bad, as it is a once in a lifetime opportunity for her. Oh well, maybe she can fly down and join us later. It would have been nice to have her to help with watches on the way, but I am being self-serving I suppose and must allow her to make her own unbiased decisions. I will try to take as many nature photos for her paintings as possible on the way. She will drive us around today to get parts and supplies, which is a great help. Being in a strange port afoot is a real pain in the ass, not to mention feet, legs etc. Next port Ensenada Mexico for a haul out and bottom paint.
Now for Judy’s comments.
The first thing I want to say is how thankful I am for having our good friend Russell adopt my little nearly 15-year old blind Dachshund, Pepper, when we found out after trying her out on the boat that it was just not a good place for her to be with her limited vision. She was so happy in her beautiful yard in Eugene having Russ and his friends giving her love and hugs and Russ even taking her fishing and on car rides which she absolutely loved and even taking naps with Pepper in bed (thank you for your sweetness and your tears for my sweet Pepper girl, Russ (And for paying for the vet and funeral costs). Russ’s friend Beth even took her to visit the elderly people she cared for in an assisted living center and we heard that Pepper and the old folks loved visiting each other…..and watching Jancy “cuddle” with Pepper when she watched TV made me very happy knowing Pepper would be well cared for (although still missed by me, her mom). Alas, while in Avalon I got the extremely sad news that Pepper and Russ’s cat Princess were attacked by wild raccoons in my back yard and while Princess was able to escape, Pepper, being blind, was not. After Russ and Beth coming to her rescue and taking her to an emergency vet to their sadness and mine the vet was not able to save her. I was so sad and still am……a few days later while Tammy, Jay and I took a long hike up a canyon in Avalon on Catalina Island we came upon a little curve in the road where off to the side the people of Avalon had created a beautiful little cemetery for their beloved pets and as I walked up to the front of the beautiful site, right there, directly in front of me was a tiny grave with colored rocks with the name “Pepper” spelled out on them! How amazing! I burst into tears and Tammy ran up and took a photo of it and I plan to have it laminated and want to send it to Russell for the memorial site of the best little dog in the world that spent her life loved by all who knew her! She will always be in my heart and thoughts. I KNOW all dogs go to Heaven and we will get together again one day, my dear sweet “Miss Sassy Pepper” (her AKC name, as she was a registered dappled, sable Dachshund). Dream on sweet Pepper, your loving Mommy will be meeting up with you again one day!)
On a lighter note, we hear that our wonderful cat “Boogie” has (finally) made friends with my daughter Moriah’s Chihuahua, Oscar, and Moriah recently got a lab mix puppy for Boogie to play with which she named “Bone.” Moriah tells me that Boogie has become quite spoiled and loves playing and napping with Bone and Oscar! Bet he’s glad to not be puking on the boat and happy sleeping with my granddaughter Haley and Grandson Brandon who tell me they absolutely LOVE my kitty man! Thank you so much Moriah, Darrell, Haley and Brandon for adopting my sweet little Prince, Boogie!
Oceanside to San Diego was beautiful if a bit disconcerting, because of all the war ships, war games, planes and jets doing numerous fly-bys to check us out….at one point I got a kick out of two fighter jets homing in close and Tammy, thinking they were the” Blue Angels” stood up and waved, and with all that beautiful blond hair flying in the wind one jet dipped his wings in greeting at Tammy and flew on---we got a kick out of that one!
In San Diego it was very nice meeting Tammy’s mother Lynn…..after hearing such wonderful things from both Jay and Tammy about her for the past few years. Knowing both Jay and Tammy, I am sure Lynn had her hands full with all of them under the same roof as a family!!!!!! And WOW all three of them were surely blessed with beautiful hair!
Jay and I walked about 2 miles and had a great dinner at a very nice Mexican restaurant last night (with an O’Douls for Jay and a Margarita for me!) and walked back “home” immediately falling into bed exhausted after hardly getting any sleep the night before! So glad to be here with the great moorage rates and hope to get our water maker repaired and other things done like a bit of provisioning and boat work. Tammy has graciously agreed to provide “Taxi” services for us and it will be fun spending more time with her.
Heading for Oceanside
We left Avalon Bay heading for Oceanside last Sunday and again experienced problems, but made it okay. Does it ever end? I am beginning to think not. When I made my third routine engine check it was discovered that the sediment bowl on the primary Racor 500 fuel filter was almost completely filled with water. Upon this harrowing discovery I immediately switched to the secondary filter/water separator as the engine started to gain RPMs. Whew! That was close. When the water was drained and the filter checked, it was apparent that this situation required my immediate attention. As it turned out the problem was the misuse of 4200 by yours truly. Yep, I screwed up. Being a novice in its use, I had failed to allow it to set up prior to tightening up the new inspection plates on the fuel tank that I had previously fabricated. The tank being in the keel under the bilge made them vulnerable to water intrusion. Since the repair on the wet muffler was leaking a bit into the bilge and the newly ordered wet muffler was waiting in San Diego a permanent repair would have to wait. I decided the simplest solution would be to keep the bilge dry, but how? Ah, ha! The shop-vac . So it was that you could have seen me with my head down in the bilge, hose in hand, sucking out every little drop of water that so stubbornly insisted on keeping me occupied.
Upon arriving in Oceanside I stopped most of the water intrusion, but will have to wait until we reach San Diego to make permanent repairs, as the prices here are outrageous! The Marina is definitely” NOT” user-friendly. They charge a dollar a foot, accept cash or check only (no traveler’s checks), have only three washers and driers, and have an eleven o’clock check out time. I can’t believe a business that refuses to make change. Yep that’s right; you have to have the exact amount of cash. We walked for hours trying to get traveler’s checks cashed so as to be able to meet their ridiculous requirements. Believe, we will never return to Oceanside harbor. NUFF SAID!
Upon arriving in Oceanside I stopped most of the water intrusion, but will have to wait until we reach San Diego to make permanent repairs, as the prices here are outrageous! The Marina is definitely” NOT” user-friendly. They charge a dollar a foot, accept cash or check only (no traveler’s checks), have only three washers and driers, and have an eleven o’clock check out time. I can’t believe a business that refuses to make change. Yep that’s right; you have to have the exact amount of cash. We walked for hours trying to get traveler’s checks cashed so as to be able to meet their ridiculous requirements. Believe, we will never return to Oceanside harbor. NUFF SAID!
Sunday, December 5, 2010
TRASH
Sorry it has taken so long to update the blog, but we have again had some major challenges to overcome. However, all is well once again. We decided to leave Port Hueneme in the wee hours so that we would arrive in Avalon Bay at Catalina Island at around daylight the next morning. Upon approaching the breakwater I asked my daughter, Tammy, to check the oil pressure and water temperature for me, as I am unable to see them from the helm (a condition that WILL be remedied in the near future). Upon checking them she said that there seemed to be a little smoke coming out from behind the gauges. I had her take the helm so I could investigate the source. As I emptied the lazarette to investigate the smoke increased rapidly. Within a few minutes the cabin was filled with smoke to the extent of zero visibility. We were unable to shut down the engine due to our proximity to the breakwater. I called out to Judy to procure a fire extinguisher and radioed the Coast Guard of our situation and instructed the crew to put on life vests. I then entered the cabin, removed the companionway ladder and opened the engine compartment. Visibility was at zero and there was no glow coming from inside, indicating that for the time being there was no actual flame. As a previous Fire Fighter/EMT I took this as an indication of some extra time to find the source of the smoke. About this time we cleared the breakwater and I was able to shut down the engine. There was still no flame visible so I opened the cabin hatch, with an extinguisher at the ready, in an attempt to vacate the smoke through the engine compartment and out through the lazarette. While this was done I stood at ready with the fire extinguisher to kill any flames that could erupt due to the ventilation draft. The smoke began to clear with no eruption of flame. Another good sign. As all of this transpired I was in constant contact with the Coast Guard informing them of the situation.
As the smoke cleared the Harbor Patrol arrived and inquired of the situation. The young man was very professional and extremely courteous. It is a pleasure to know that such people still exist in our chaotic society today. Later it was discovered that he was new to the job, but by the way he handled the situation and his boat, you would never have known it. This young man (Mr. Collins) did an excellent job of towing the boat back to the Harbor Patrol dock. Upon arrival we were informed that we could use their dock to complete our repairs and were welcome to use any of their facilities we required. I can’t say enough about the courtesy extended to us by the Harbor Patrol there.
As it turned out, our problems were multiple. The impellor in the raw water pump was fried. This was due to the sea cock on the raw water intake being too loose and vibrating shut while under power. This of course caused the impellor to self destruct, which in turn caused the hose at the end of the exhaust riser loop to blow, which in turn caused the wet muffler to go dry collapsing the hose connection and heating the exhaust to a point that melted the bilge hoses that were against it. Hence the smoke! Once this was all repaired, I thought we were once again ready to embark on our journey. Not even, when the engine was started the water that is supposed to exit out of the stern, exited out the hose connection on the muffler. No problem, right? Just tighten the hose clamps. When I did that, the male outlet that the hose goes over collapsed. Shit, now what? There were none available and would have to be ordered. We ordered one and had it sent to my daughter's in San Diego. In the meantime it was get out the fiberglass. I made a mold out of aluminum can to make a new neck to attach the hose to, and then glassed over the whole top where it was cracked and about to fall apart. It was now 2:36pm. Once again the engine was started, but this time all was well. The only problem was the smell of smoke, which had now dissipated, thank God! Off again to Avalon, a bit late, but problems resolved!
We timed our arrival to be early morning during the daylight hours. The slip promised turned out to be a buoy, with no electric or fresh water. Oh well, can’t win em all. Catalina is beautiful, but very expensive. We went to see the botanical gardens and memorial, which were very nice and not too pricey. Judy and I decided to go for a walk while Tammy slept off “ too much fun” from the night before. We went up, and I do mean up, the hill to the bell tower and the Zane Grey pueblo. The view of the harbor was great and we took some good photos. At this point we decided to continue up the road to the top for a better view. A ways up we saw the Zip Line where people get their thrills by hooking themselves to a cable and speeding down over the canyons. The cost? Why, a mere $92.00 per person. On our way we started to notice the trash thrown out along the side of the road. It was not excessive, but seemed so, due to Catalina Islands general cleanliness. Judy is always picking up other peoples trash and putting it in a garbage can. I have also been known to do this, but not near as adamantly as her. We began to make a game of who could find and pick up the most along the way until we came to a gate blocking the road. A sign informed us that to continue up the road we must buy a permit for $12.00 each back in town. Shit, you can’t even walk on a public road without paying. We called the number on the sign and were informed that if caught by a Ranger on the road we could get in trouble. Judy and I discussed it and decided to risk it. I mean, who could justify fining people who are picking up trash along a road, for being on it without a $12.00 permit? We went up the road. About two or three miles further there was a turn-out cul-de-sac that overlooked the ocean. As we walked down picking up more trash we looked over the side and discovered a mass of trash (mostly cans & bottles) on the slope. Well look at all that fun!
Yep, we dove over the side and started picking the trash off the side of this very steep slope dodging the cactus that populated this slope and carrying it back to the top. This continued for about fifteen minutes and as I was approaching the top with a load, I looked up to see a pickup pull up with a big “RANGER” sign on the side. Uh Oh! Now the shit starts! Well this Ranger exits his official vehicle and in a very commanding voice says “ what are you doing down there?” Of course my response was “ picking up trash”. He just stood there looking kinda dumbfounded for a minute and then said "Oh." in a somewhat smaller voice. I then asked if he had a bag we could have to carry it up the hill with, as it was difficult to carry very much in our hands. He became very accommodating, but unfortunately he didn’t have a bag. He offered to let us put the trash in the back of his truck, but upon me doing so, he decided it would be better for us to put it on the ground and for him to come back later and pick it up. He never did ask if we had a permit to be up there, he! he! Gee, I wonder if he forgot. We continued to pack trash up that slope for the next few hours until that hill looked decent once again. Catalina is such a beautiful place, it seemed a desecration to ignore such an eye-sore.
On our way back down the mountain road Judy and I began to discuss the abuse of our land by the people that inhabit it, and decided to do what we can to help clean it up. We will begin by taking at least one day at every port we stop in to pick up trash along any trails or roads we walk. We will do this regardless of where we are. We did notice that the majority of cans and bottles were of Anhauser Busch origin. This in turn gave us the idea of forming an association of world cruisers who are willing to join in this effort to do their part in a worldwide clean up of trash everywhere they go. We also decided to approach Anhauser Busch to give them the opportunity of getting in on the ground floor of this project if they so desire. We are not accusing them of anything, but they might want to help clean up the cans and bottles that their customers have so wantonly discarded. On this first and foremost endeavor, their products were in excess of eighty percent!
Upon returning to town we began to see the teaming hoardes of new arrivals to the island via ferry, sailing and motor yachts who were getting ready for the Catalina Grand Prix Motocross event (the first one being held there since 1958.) The two-day event began the next day and we climbed up a few hills to get a good view only to be dissappointed by the timidity of most of the riders (who mostly appeared to be over the age of 40, 50 and 60!) As Jay harumphed that he could ride faster than most of the entrants on his chopper an older woman next to him began bragging about HER "bagger" bike. Jay laughed and we had a good time anyway because we got there after the rain had stopped that had pelted the riders earlier in the day. (Hopefully the 800 riders and the attendant guests will pick up their trash when they leave...funny but we noticed they were carrying cases of Budweiser and other Busch products as they headed up the hills along side us!) We left early, mildly dissappointed at the event but had a GREAT pizza made by a tiny local shop and fed the pigeons (including a one-legged "pirate-looking" bird). We walked back to the dinghy dock and headed for our own little floating "island" of peace and quiet.
Our friends from Canada, Steve and Lodie, arrived yesterday and came by for a dessert and night cap visit in the evening to fill us in on THEIR adventures since last our paths crossed. This morning they headed out for Oceanside, as they want to get on to Mexico asap. We will head out in a few days.
We are excited about the FREE EVENT being held on Monday which is a once-a-year "open house" tour of the Wrigley Mansion (of the chewing gum family who once owned the island and contributed to keeping it a pure and beautiful place for over 56 years until a Conservancy was begun to continue their labor of love). A $1 taxi service will carry visitors up the steep hill where the 22 room mansion proudly sits above Avalon Harbor. It is said that Ada Wrigley, wife of magnate William Wrigley Jr., chose this spot for her home because it is the very first spot on the island to see the sun rise and set each day. What a treat! Can't wait for the holiday treats and singing around the family piano that is supposed to be part of the free event.
As the smoke cleared the Harbor Patrol arrived and inquired of the situation. The young man was very professional and extremely courteous. It is a pleasure to know that such people still exist in our chaotic society today. Later it was discovered that he was new to the job, but by the way he handled the situation and his boat, you would never have known it. This young man (Mr. Collins) did an excellent job of towing the boat back to the Harbor Patrol dock. Upon arrival we were informed that we could use their dock to complete our repairs and were welcome to use any of their facilities we required. I can’t say enough about the courtesy extended to us by the Harbor Patrol there.
As it turned out, our problems were multiple. The impellor in the raw water pump was fried. This was due to the sea cock on the raw water intake being too loose and vibrating shut while under power. This of course caused the impellor to self destruct, which in turn caused the hose at the end of the exhaust riser loop to blow, which in turn caused the wet muffler to go dry collapsing the hose connection and heating the exhaust to a point that melted the bilge hoses that were against it. Hence the smoke! Once this was all repaired, I thought we were once again ready to embark on our journey. Not even, when the engine was started the water that is supposed to exit out of the stern, exited out the hose connection on the muffler. No problem, right? Just tighten the hose clamps. When I did that, the male outlet that the hose goes over collapsed. Shit, now what? There were none available and would have to be ordered. We ordered one and had it sent to my daughter's in San Diego. In the meantime it was get out the fiberglass. I made a mold out of aluminum can to make a new neck to attach the hose to, and then glassed over the whole top where it was cracked and about to fall apart. It was now 2:36pm. Once again the engine was started, but this time all was well. The only problem was the smell of smoke, which had now dissipated, thank God! Off again to Avalon, a bit late, but problems resolved!
We timed our arrival to be early morning during the daylight hours. The slip promised turned out to be a buoy, with no electric or fresh water. Oh well, can’t win em all. Catalina is beautiful, but very expensive. We went to see the botanical gardens and memorial, which were very nice and not too pricey. Judy and I decided to go for a walk while Tammy slept off “ too much fun” from the night before. We went up, and I do mean up, the hill to the bell tower and the Zane Grey pueblo. The view of the harbor was great and we took some good photos. At this point we decided to continue up the road to the top for a better view. A ways up we saw the Zip Line where people get their thrills by hooking themselves to a cable and speeding down over the canyons. The cost? Why, a mere $92.00 per person. On our way we started to notice the trash thrown out along the side of the road. It was not excessive, but seemed so, due to Catalina Islands general cleanliness. Judy is always picking up other peoples trash and putting it in a garbage can. I have also been known to do this, but not near as adamantly as her. We began to make a game of who could find and pick up the most along the way until we came to a gate blocking the road. A sign informed us that to continue up the road we must buy a permit for $12.00 each back in town. Shit, you can’t even walk on a public road without paying. We called the number on the sign and were informed that if caught by a Ranger on the road we could get in trouble. Judy and I discussed it and decided to risk it. I mean, who could justify fining people who are picking up trash along a road, for being on it without a $12.00 permit? We went up the road. About two or three miles further there was a turn-out cul-de-sac that overlooked the ocean. As we walked down picking up more trash we looked over the side and discovered a mass of trash (mostly cans & bottles) on the slope. Well look at all that fun!
Yep, we dove over the side and started picking the trash off the side of this very steep slope dodging the cactus that populated this slope and carrying it back to the top. This continued for about fifteen minutes and as I was approaching the top with a load, I looked up to see a pickup pull up with a big “RANGER” sign on the side. Uh Oh! Now the shit starts! Well this Ranger exits his official vehicle and in a very commanding voice says “ what are you doing down there?” Of course my response was “ picking up trash”. He just stood there looking kinda dumbfounded for a minute and then said "Oh." in a somewhat smaller voice. I then asked if he had a bag we could have to carry it up the hill with, as it was difficult to carry very much in our hands. He became very accommodating, but unfortunately he didn’t have a bag. He offered to let us put the trash in the back of his truck, but upon me doing so, he decided it would be better for us to put it on the ground and for him to come back later and pick it up. He never did ask if we had a permit to be up there, he! he! Gee, I wonder if he forgot. We continued to pack trash up that slope for the next few hours until that hill looked decent once again. Catalina is such a beautiful place, it seemed a desecration to ignore such an eye-sore.
On our way back down the mountain road Judy and I began to discuss the abuse of our land by the people that inhabit it, and decided to do what we can to help clean it up. We will begin by taking at least one day at every port we stop in to pick up trash along any trails or roads we walk. We will do this regardless of where we are. We did notice that the majority of cans and bottles were of Anhauser Busch origin. This in turn gave us the idea of forming an association of world cruisers who are willing to join in this effort to do their part in a worldwide clean up of trash everywhere they go. We also decided to approach Anhauser Busch to give them the opportunity of getting in on the ground floor of this project if they so desire. We are not accusing them of anything, but they might want to help clean up the cans and bottles that their customers have so wantonly discarded. On this first and foremost endeavor, their products were in excess of eighty percent!
Upon returning to town we began to see the teaming hoardes of new arrivals to the island via ferry, sailing and motor yachts who were getting ready for the Catalina Grand Prix Motocross event (the first one being held there since 1958.) The two-day event began the next day and we climbed up a few hills to get a good view only to be dissappointed by the timidity of most of the riders (who mostly appeared to be over the age of 40, 50 and 60!) As Jay harumphed that he could ride faster than most of the entrants on his chopper an older woman next to him began bragging about HER "bagger" bike. Jay laughed and we had a good time anyway because we got there after the rain had stopped that had pelted the riders earlier in the day. (Hopefully the 800 riders and the attendant guests will pick up their trash when they leave...funny but we noticed they were carrying cases of Budweiser and other Busch products as they headed up the hills along side us!) We left early, mildly dissappointed at the event but had a GREAT pizza made by a tiny local shop and fed the pigeons (including a one-legged "pirate-looking" bird). We walked back to the dinghy dock and headed for our own little floating "island" of peace and quiet.
Our friends from Canada, Steve and Lodie, arrived yesterday and came by for a dessert and night cap visit in the evening to fill us in on THEIR adventures since last our paths crossed. This morning they headed out for Oceanside, as they want to get on to Mexico asap. We will head out in a few days.
We are excited about the FREE EVENT being held on Monday which is a once-a-year "open house" tour of the Wrigley Mansion (of the chewing gum family who once owned the island and contributed to keeping it a pure and beautiful place for over 56 years until a Conservancy was begun to continue their labor of love). A $1 taxi service will carry visitors up the steep hill where the 22 room mansion proudly sits above Avalon Harbor. It is said that Ada Wrigley, wife of magnate William Wrigley Jr., chose this spot for her home because it is the very first spot on the island to see the sun rise and set each day. What a treat! Can't wait for the holiday treats and singing around the family piano that is supposed to be part of the free event.
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