4/ 23/2011……….Isla San Francisco to Punta San Evaristo
Up at six, coffee & cinnimon roll down the hatch and everything secured by eight and we are headed out for Punta San Evaristo, via Punta Salinas (salt point). This time we left early enough to catch the morning wind. As we left the anchorage the wind was at seven knots, so I let the jib fly. There were several other sailboats out already with jibs out. Life is good. That lasted about a half hour and the wind took a hike to parts unknown, leaving us in the dust, so to speak. It was dead calm until we started to anchor off of Punta Salinas. As soon as I dropped the hook the wind started to come in from the south with a vengeance. Coming in with it of course, were the white capped waves. This would be of no concern except we were on a leeward shore. These conditions could get serious if we were off the boat. So it was, pull up the anchor and head across the channel to Punta San Evaresto. Of course the wind, fickle bitch that she is, took a hike once again. We said the hell with it and sailed in, crawling along at a literal snail’s pace.
Since we had skipped our planed excursion to explore the abandoned salt company buildings and equipment, we had plenty of time to spare. Once anchored, we rowed the dinghy to shore and were pleasantly surprised to find the small Tienda so well stocked. They even had my favorite Mexican cookie, Emperador brand Vainilla Cremosa. They’re kind of like a square, vanilla flavored Oreo. No one here speaks a lick of English, but we got by just fine at the Tienda. We purchased some eggs, augua mineral, salsa, viena sausages, and of course my cookies.
Tomorrow we will head for Bahia Aqua Verde, non stop this time. It lies on the mainland side of Baja Sur. It is supposed to be a very beautiful anchorage. I’m sure it will live up to its name and reputation. I will take more photos. That’s about it for today. I guess now that I’m finished catching up the blog, I’ll just have to take the rest of the day off! Whew!
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
24/2011 San Evaristo to Bahia Agua Verde
I was up at four am this morning. No, not by choice, but because I couldn’t sleep. Don’t ask why, or I’ll have to tell you about all my aches and pains. Which I’m sure you have enough of your own and don’t want to hear about mine. Anyway, we were out of San Evaristo by seven. As usual, the sea was dead calm, so it was motor or sit and wait for the wind. We opted to motor. The wind did finally come up just before we entered Bahia Agua Verde. I tried to drown a Rapala lure all the way to no avail. I better start catching something decent soon, or it’s going to get pretty hungry down here. It is a bit tricky approaching the bay due to a reef and some hidden rocks. Once again I was thankful to have the new sonar.
I had to set the anchor three times before I got it right. This is a really crowded anchorage and you really have to do it right, or you could swing into another boat during the night when the wind shifts. After everything was secure Judy and I went for a walk through the village and stopped at a tiny Tienda for some fresh bananas and a cold drink. We walked back to the beached dink and rowed back to the boat to have some vittles.
I was up at four am this morning. No, not by choice, but because I couldn’t sleep. Don’t ask why, or I’ll have to tell you about all my aches and pains. Which I’m sure you have enough of your own and don’t want to hear about mine. Anyway, we were out of San Evaristo by seven. As usual, the sea was dead calm, so it was motor or sit and wait for the wind. We opted to motor. The wind did finally come up just before we entered Bahia Agua Verde. I tried to drown a Rapala lure all the way to no avail. I better start catching something decent soon, or it’s going to get pretty hungry down here. It is a bit tricky approaching the bay due to a reef and some hidden rocks. Once again I was thankful to have the new sonar.
I had to set the anchor three times before I got it right. This is a really crowded anchorage and you really have to do it right, or you could swing into another boat during the night when the wind shifts. After everything was secure Judy and I went for a walk through the village and stopped at a tiny Tienda for some fresh bananas and a cold drink. We walked back to the beached dink and rowed back to the boat to have some vittles.
La Paz to Puerto Gallina
. So off we go! 4/22/2011
We left La Paz at one pm on the 21st. The channel was calm as it was an ebb tide. As usual the wind blew all morning and died as soon as we entered the bay. We motored to Puerto Ballena on Isla Espirito Santo and anchored in the south bite, which is named Ensenada La Gallina. We dropped the hook in 18 ft, with a sand bottom. Once settled in I dropped a line in and caught a couple of small bass and then a puffer fish. That was enough, I don’t care about catching something that wants to stick me with little poisonous spines. Besides we were tired and ready to crash. The boat performed admirably, no problems what so ever.
I arose at four am on the 22nd and proceeded to change the oil and check the gearboxes before we headed out. The night before we decided to make Isla San Francisco our next stop, as it would be an easy sail at only 24 nautical miles away. After breakfast we pulled anchor and got under way. This time we had a little wind, at least enough to furl out the jib to help the motor and save fuel. After about two hours the wind was up enough to kill the engine and run on the jib alone. Being such a short run, and since we had plenty of time, I didn’t hoist the main. Sailing downwind we made six knots in nine knots of apparent wind. The water was a bit choppy with four foot swells at about six seconds, but since it was a following sea it wasn’t bad at all. The temp in La Paz was supposed to be in the high nineties, but out on the water it felt more like the high seventies or low eighties.
Somewhere on approaching the anchorage at Isla San Francisco there is a dangerous rock that is not visible. We have three guide books and they all place this rock at different points. Basically this means that you can take your pick, or try to avoid all three locations. However, if none of them agree, maybe they are all wrong. There could one, two, or even three rocks lurking beneath the surface just waiting to rip a hole in the bottom of your boat. Maybe they are all the same, but they used different charts. The Mexico charts aren’t known for their accuracy. This certainly doesn’t instill any confidence upon approaching this anchorage. That is unless you have forward looking sonar, like the one we just installed in La Paz. We just approached at a slow speed and kept a keen eye on the sonar screen, no problem! We anchored in twenty two feet of beautiful turquoise water with a white sand bottom. The water is also bordered by a white sand beach that is loaded with puka shells. Somehow I thought they were from Hawaii not Mexico. Judy and I ran the dinghy to shore and walked across a sand spit that separates the beaches. It was low tide so Judy explored the tide pools, marveling at the sea life and the numerous whole sea shells of many varieties. Back home the beach comers have to search hard to find any good shells, but not here!
I did take some photos but will have to wait until we reach Puerto Escondido to post them. Today we will not go far. We are now on a sightseeing tour of the Islands and anchorages around this area. We will only make about fourteen miles total today. Ending up at Punta San Evaristo, via Punta Salinas, on Isla San Jose. It has an abandoned salt mining operation with abandoned vehicles and buildings Judy said she wants to explore
We left La Paz at one pm on the 21st. The channel was calm as it was an ebb tide. As usual the wind blew all morning and died as soon as we entered the bay. We motored to Puerto Ballena on Isla Espirito Santo and anchored in the south bite, which is named Ensenada La Gallina. We dropped the hook in 18 ft, with a sand bottom. Once settled in I dropped a line in and caught a couple of small bass and then a puffer fish. That was enough, I don’t care about catching something that wants to stick me with little poisonous spines. Besides we were tired and ready to crash. The boat performed admirably, no problems what so ever.
I arose at four am on the 22nd and proceeded to change the oil and check the gearboxes before we headed out. The night before we decided to make Isla San Francisco our next stop, as it would be an easy sail at only 24 nautical miles away. After breakfast we pulled anchor and got under way. This time we had a little wind, at least enough to furl out the jib to help the motor and save fuel. After about two hours the wind was up enough to kill the engine and run on the jib alone. Being such a short run, and since we had plenty of time, I didn’t hoist the main. Sailing downwind we made six knots in nine knots of apparent wind. The water was a bit choppy with four foot swells at about six seconds, but since it was a following sea it wasn’t bad at all. The temp in La Paz was supposed to be in the high nineties, but out on the water it felt more like the high seventies or low eighties.
Somewhere on approaching the anchorage at Isla San Francisco there is a dangerous rock that is not visible. We have three guide books and they all place this rock at different points. Basically this means that you can take your pick, or try to avoid all three locations. However, if none of them agree, maybe they are all wrong. There could one, two, or even three rocks lurking beneath the surface just waiting to rip a hole in the bottom of your boat. Maybe they are all the same, but they used different charts. The Mexico charts aren’t known for their accuracy. This certainly doesn’t instill any confidence upon approaching this anchorage. That is unless you have forward looking sonar, like the one we just installed in La Paz. We just approached at a slow speed and kept a keen eye on the sonar screen, no problem! We anchored in twenty two feet of beautiful turquoise water with a white sand bottom. The water is also bordered by a white sand beach that is loaded with puka shells. Somehow I thought they were from Hawaii not Mexico. Judy and I ran the dinghy to shore and walked across a sand spit that separates the beaches. It was low tide so Judy explored the tide pools, marveling at the sea life and the numerous whole sea shells of many varieties. Back home the beach comers have to search hard to find any good shells, but not here!
I did take some photos but will have to wait until we reach Puerto Escondido to post them. Today we will not go far. We are now on a sightseeing tour of the Islands and anchorages around this area. We will only make about fourteen miles total today. Ending up at Punta San Evaristo, via Punta Salinas, on Isla San Jose. It has an abandoned salt mining operation with abandoned vehicles and buildings Judy said she wants to explore
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Today is departure day!
Today is the day leave La Paz. That is if the weather is good. Otherwise we will wait until it is. The wind is up at present but should lie down a bit around noon. If so we will head out through the channel to the open sea. Our plan is to only sail a short distance to a bay called “El Mezteno” on the Isla Espiritu Santo. This little bay is only large enough to hold one or two boats at anchor. If it is occupied we will bypass it and anchor at Ensenada Grande, a much larger bay on Isla Partida. The next stop will be in a very popular anchorage on Isla San Francisco. From there we will take our time visiting several Islas such as Isla Coyote, Isla San Jose, San Evaristo, Nopolo, Timbabiche (Bahia San Carlos),Punta Prieta, Bahia Santa Marta, Ensenada La Ballena, Bahi Agua Verde, and then on to Puerto Escondido, where I will spend six weeks alone on the boat, kicking back, fishing and exploring the areas many islands, while Judy goes to her daughter’s wedding and visits family. She will also pick up a rebuilt auto pilot control box and some items that are not available here, such as cheddar cheese
I have no idea when we will be able to get internet service in the next six weeks. If and when we can, we will make posts. So until we can, I hope you all have as great a time as we are planning on having and as good of weather! Anyone that wishes to come down and visit, sail, fish or just kick back and enjoy the great weather, a great time would be anytime from June 1st through July 14th.
ADIOS!.....until next time………………..
I have no idea when we will be able to get internet service in the next six weeks. If and when we can, we will make posts. So until we can, I hope you all have as great a time as we are planning on having and as good of weather! Anyone that wishes to come down and visit, sail, fish or just kick back and enjoy the great weather, a great time would be anytime from June 1st through July 14th.
ADIOS!.....until next time………………..
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Second time around.
The diagnosis was good on my knee, generally speaking. It is supposed to heal itself in a couple of months if I don’t abuse it. That means not bending it back excessively and wearing a knee pad when kneeling on it. Yeah right, on a sailboat? I will try to comply as much as possible. Once we are in Puerto Escondido it will be much easier to do. At the end of May Judy will be going to Portland to attend her daughter Darcie’s wedding and to visit family. She will be gone about six weeks, so if anyone wishes to come down to sail, fish, or simply kick back in the warm weather I will have plenty of room for company. I plan on doing a lot of recreational activities. Things like fishing , lounging, resting, or simply nothing.
As you can see, we now have our computer back on the internet. Did I say we lost it? I can’t remember if that was on the blog I lost. Anyway, a local business called Telcel that supplies phones and internet service has “Authorized Dealers” besides their main offices. There are many of these little dealerships in La Paz who rip off cruisers. I’m sure that some of them might be run by honest people, but most are not. They know that most cruisers leave La Paz after a couple of weeks. As a result of having this knowledge, they sell them pre-paid internet service for as long a period as possible. Once they have your money they will only buy two weeks service from the main company, no matter how much you purchased and pocket the rest. In a couple of weeks when the cruisers internet service is shut off it is too late to do anything about, because they are already at sea on their way to a new port. They are pretty bold, as they will give you a bogus receipt or cut off the top and bottom that has the Telcel logo on it. Yes we got ripped off, but only for about twenty dollars. They take advantage of Gringos not speaking Spanish, so they can’t speak with the main office employees or supervisors. We informed our friend what happened and he went to the main office for us and purchased the proper service for our computer. He also made copies of our paper work from the dealer and filed a complaint. He said that this conduct is not acceptable and hurts all businesses in La Paz. Victor is an extremely conscientious business man and very honest. A man of integrity, that we are proud to call a friend.
We will be leaving La Paz soon. I haven’t looked out yet this morning, but I’m sure Steve and Lulu are still here, as I was not awakened by any loud Velcro ripping sounds as they passed!
As you can see, we now have our computer back on the internet. Did I say we lost it? I can’t remember if that was on the blog I lost. Anyway, a local business called Telcel that supplies phones and internet service has “Authorized Dealers” besides their main offices. There are many of these little dealerships in La Paz who rip off cruisers. I’m sure that some of them might be run by honest people, but most are not. They know that most cruisers leave La Paz after a couple of weeks. As a result of having this knowledge, they sell them pre-paid internet service for as long a period as possible. Once they have your money they will only buy two weeks service from the main company, no matter how much you purchased and pocket the rest. In a couple of weeks when the cruisers internet service is shut off it is too late to do anything about, because they are already at sea on their way to a new port. They are pretty bold, as they will give you a bogus receipt or cut off the top and bottom that has the Telcel logo on it. Yes we got ripped off, but only for about twenty dollars. They take advantage of Gringos not speaking Spanish, so they can’t speak with the main office employees or supervisors. We informed our friend what happened and he went to the main office for us and purchased the proper service for our computer. He also made copies of our paper work from the dealer and filed a complaint. He said that this conduct is not acceptable and hurts all businesses in La Paz. Victor is an extremely conscientious business man and very honest. A man of integrity, that we are proud to call a friend.
We will be leaving La Paz soon. I haven’t looked out yet this morning, but I’m sure Steve and Lulu are still here, as I was not awakened by any loud Velcro ripping sounds as they passed!
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Ultrasound
Yesterday morning my knee was looking like it was pregnant again. All puffed up like a woman’s belly, but still soft. Again I thought that maybe If I gave it some time it would go away. No such luck. I did not know what hours the Doctor would be in his office, because due to the hot afternoons, they still take siestas here. It would do no good to call ,as his receptionist speaks zero English. Even if I used the English Spanish dictionary to make up my question, I could not understand her answer. The day before I went in at four pm, so I thought that would be as good a time as any. Just as I arrived outside his office the doctor came around from the back. He said he had to go down the street but would be back soon. He then unlocked the office for me so I could wait inside where it was cool and then relocked it. How many doctors would allow a patient to wait in their office unattended in America? I know of none. They would make you wait outside in the heat. People here are much more trusting of their fellow man. I like that, it reminds me of America back in the 1950s.When he came back he took me upstairs and once again took out those big syringes with the bigger needles and sucked the fluid out. This time the it did not look like diluted goats blood, but real human blood. I said to the doctor, ah that’s good no? Unfortunately he said no!
Today at one pm I go to get an ultrasound (cost about $45 US). Then I go back to the Doctor’s office to discuss my options. One of which is exploratory surgery. This would be to see what is causing the problem. It could be a bone chip from when I fell three and a half stories and broke my back, among many other things. I will just have to wait and see, and so will you. That is if you are interested. Adios por ahora!
To be continued
Today at one pm I go to get an ultrasound (cost about $45 US). Then I go back to the Doctor’s office to discuss my options. One of which is exploratory surgery. This would be to see what is causing the problem. It could be a bone chip from when I fell three and a half stories and broke my back, among many other things. I will just have to wait and see, and so will you. That is if you are interested. Adios por ahora!
To be continued
Friday, April 15, 2011
Pregnant Knee!
Three days ago I woke up and to my surprise I discovered that my knee looked pregnant. This could not be, as it has been with me always and has never left my sight. Except of course, when I was asleep and had my eyes closed. I hear some people can sleep with their eyes open, but I am not so fortunate. I eyed it suspiciously and carefully palpated the area with my fingers. It was soft, not firm as a pregnant woman’s belly and it did not hurt at all. But what else could it be? I have never had anything such as this before. I thought that if I ignore it, maybe it will just go away. Two days later it was even bigger, but it was still soft. That was good news. At least I would not have to be worried about having a little third knee hanging around to bother me all the time.
I got up the following morning and it was bigger yet, so I decided that I had better go see the Doctor before this thing exploded and made a big mess. I do not speak very good Spanish yet, so it is a challenge trying to communicate with the doctor’s secretary. After hand mimes and strange sounds she said a couple of words I understood, quatro ( 4) and tardes (afternoon). Okay I got it. I came back at four that afternoon to see the doctor.
Fortunately the doctor spoke very good English. I showed him my pregnant looking knee and he got out these big syringes with even bigger needles sticking out of them. That’s when I knew this was not going to be very much fun. It wasn’t either. He stuck those big needles into my pregnant looking knee and drew out what looked like diluted goat’s blood. The good part was that my knee no longer looked pregnant. It almost looked normal. The doctor sent the diluted goat’s blood to the laboratory to see what it is and why it picked on me. In five days I have to go back to find out. The total bill was about sixty five dollars and that included everything, even my next visit, because it is part of the same ailment. Here the insurance companies do not control the doctors, and the people do not sue them either. As a result of these simple facts, the medical services here are affordable. The people in the USA should take note of this fact and get rid of their controllers---the insurance companies!
I got up the following morning and it was bigger yet, so I decided that I had better go see the Doctor before this thing exploded and made a big mess. I do not speak very good Spanish yet, so it is a challenge trying to communicate with the doctor’s secretary. After hand mimes and strange sounds she said a couple of words I understood, quatro ( 4) and tardes (afternoon). Okay I got it. I came back at four that afternoon to see the doctor.
Fortunately the doctor spoke very good English. I showed him my pregnant looking knee and he got out these big syringes with even bigger needles sticking out of them. That’s when I knew this was not going to be very much fun. It wasn’t either. He stuck those big needles into my pregnant looking knee and drew out what looked like diluted goat’s blood. The good part was that my knee no longer looked pregnant. It almost looked normal. The doctor sent the diluted goat’s blood to the laboratory to see what it is and why it picked on me. In five days I have to go back to find out. The total bill was about sixty five dollars and that included everything, even my next visit, because it is part of the same ailment. Here the insurance companies do not control the doctors, and the people do not sue them either. As a result of these simple facts, the medical services here are affordable. The people in the USA should take note of this fact and get rid of their controllers---the insurance companies!
Thursday, April 14, 2011
VHF Transmitting
I picked Victor up at the dinghy dock at 9:00 AM yesterday morning and headed out to the anchorage. Victor seemed very happy that the water was flat with no wind. I have the feeling that going out in a small dinghy in the bay isn’t his idea of having a good time.When I told him about my previous experience trying to secure Siempre Sabado in the rough water and wind, he seemed a bit apprehensive to say the least. Maybe he can’t swim. We arrived at the boat without any mishaps and Victor got busy checking the radio. He checked everything that I had checked, and came up with the same results. It just didn’t make sense. We had plenty of power, yet when we keyed the mike the digital number would go off and then flash and it would not transmit. Victor said he had never seen this happen before and asked if I had the manual. I did, so he read it for a while and checked a few more things but couldn’t find anything wrong. He then hooked up the emergency antenna and low and behold it transmitted on high. So the problem was in the main antenna system somewhere. To make a long story short, the problem turned out to be corrosion on an extension cable connection fitting located in the bilge. It was kind of crazy; someone had added a 14” section to the cable. I have no idea why they did this, but I removed it and cleaned the connections, reinstalled it minus the 14” section and it works great. It never ceases to amaze me how something so simple can cause so much trouble.
I took Victor back to the dock and when I asked how much I owed him he said 200 pesos. Well folks that is only around $18.00 US. I gave him 300 pesos and figure I got a hell of a deal. I do recommend him highly. His business is “Radiocomcomunicaciones” DE LA PAZ. And his phone is Nextel: 62*14*64604
When I returned to the boat I got busy repairing several small things. Steve came by to bring back my extra anchor and rode. He also brought a plate of still warm brownies that Lulu made for us. Thanks Lulu they are delicious, Mmm! Mmm! After Steve left I hauled everything out of the back lazeret and returned the 45lb CQR to its resting place at the bottom. I then placed everything else back on top, until the next time it is needed. What a hassle, but there just isn’t anywhere else to store it. I have four extra anchors aboard and could do away with one, but sure as hell if I do, I or someone else will need it. Just as I got everything finished and was admiring the orderly cockpit, Roger called out from his dinghy to say he was here to work on the refrigeration. Well that meant everything had to come out of the side lazeret to access the unit. Roger checked out the unit and found that I was correct in my assumption that I had overfilled the unit with freon the last time I added some. I’m glad that I didn’t run it that way as it could cause some serious damage. It has had a slow leak for some time now. Roger found a leak the last time he was out and repaired it, but evidently there is another one. He removed the extra freon and got it working, but could not find any other leaks. Roger is very good at what he does and comes highly recommended. He also showed pity on me and only charged me $30 for running out in his skiff and repairing the unit. I will see if I can borrow a sniffer and try to find the leak myself. Not that I am any better, but I can go slow and take all the time in the world. I wouldn't want to pay the bill for a refrigeration man to do that. Roger checked all the fittings, so that part is covered. I asked if a copper line might have abraded and be leaking. He said that would be very rare. So I figure that, considering the boats history, that’s most likely what it will turn out to be!
I took Victor back to the dock and when I asked how much I owed him he said 200 pesos. Well folks that is only around $18.00 US. I gave him 300 pesos and figure I got a hell of a deal. I do recommend him highly. His business is “Radiocomcomunicaciones” DE LA PAZ. And his phone is Nextel: 62*14*64604
When I returned to the boat I got busy repairing several small things. Steve came by to bring back my extra anchor and rode. He also brought a plate of still warm brownies that Lulu made for us. Thanks Lulu they are delicious, Mmm! Mmm! After Steve left I hauled everything out of the back lazeret and returned the 45lb CQR to its resting place at the bottom. I then placed everything else back on top, until the next time it is needed. What a hassle, but there just isn’t anywhere else to store it. I have four extra anchors aboard and could do away with one, but sure as hell if I do, I or someone else will need it. Just as I got everything finished and was admiring the orderly cockpit, Roger called out from his dinghy to say he was here to work on the refrigeration. Well that meant everything had to come out of the side lazeret to access the unit. Roger checked out the unit and found that I was correct in my assumption that I had overfilled the unit with freon the last time I added some. I’m glad that I didn’t run it that way as it could cause some serious damage. It has had a slow leak for some time now. Roger found a leak the last time he was out and repaired it, but evidently there is another one. He removed the extra freon and got it working, but could not find any other leaks. Roger is very good at what he does and comes highly recommended. He also showed pity on me and only charged me $30 for running out in his skiff and repairing the unit. I will see if I can borrow a sniffer and try to find the leak myself. Not that I am any better, but I can go slow and take all the time in the world. I wouldn't want to pay the bill for a refrigeration man to do that. Roger checked all the fittings, so that part is covered. I asked if a copper line might have abraded and be leaking. He said that would be very rare. So I figure that, considering the boats history, that’s most likely what it will turn out to be!
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Getting ready
Today I will focus on getting Victor on the boat to figure out why our VHF will not transmit on High power. Victor is an extremely nice gentleman who has a rare malady, known as (CSN). He just can’t say no! As a result he is always behind and overloaded with work. Trying to keep everyone happy doesn’t work if one doesn’t meet their schedule. He was supposed to call me to come over last Saturday, but I still haven’t heard from him. I will go to his shop today and drag him over if necessary! Just kidding, what he lacks in prudent business practice, he more than makes up in courtesy and amiability. He is also very good at what he does!
After the Cruisers' net, Roger the refrigeration man is supposed to call to make arrangements to come out to check our refrigerator and freezer. I think that I might have put too much R-12 in the system. I’m not sure, but don’t want to run it until I know for sure. If I put too much in and run it, the results could be very devastating, and we certainly don’t want that. Enough shit breaks on its own around here, without me adding to the problem!
If I get these two feats accomplished, I will install the correct length bolt in the bracket I made to hold the GPS above the Sonar screen at the helm. I also need to reinstall the high pressure hose I had to remove off of the water maker, in order to be able to inspect it for wear. That’s about it for today, unless I can squeeze in some fishing time.
Judy said that while I am getting my stuff done , she would make some cinnamon rolls and make some more bread. Yum! Yum! I haven’t had breakfast yet and it makes my mouth water just thinking about those hot cinnamon rolls.
After the Cruisers' net, Roger the refrigeration man is supposed to call to make arrangements to come out to check our refrigerator and freezer. I think that I might have put too much R-12 in the system. I’m not sure, but don’t want to run it until I know for sure. If I put too much in and run it, the results could be very devastating, and we certainly don’t want that. Enough shit breaks on its own around here, without me adding to the problem!
If I get these two feats accomplished, I will install the correct length bolt in the bracket I made to hold the GPS above the Sonar screen at the helm. I also need to reinstall the high pressure hose I had to remove off of the water maker, in order to be able to inspect it for wear. That’s about it for today, unless I can squeeze in some fishing time.
Judy said that while I am getting my stuff done , she would make some cinnamon rolls and make some more bread. Yum! Yum! I haven’t had breakfast yet and it makes my mouth water just thinking about those hot cinnamon rolls.
Monday, April 11, 2011
Another blustery day
Yesterday the winds came up as predicted and the swells with them. It certainly was not a day to go for a ride in an eight foot dinghy. As a result we decided to stay aboard and keep an eye on the weather, and the possibility of having to let out more rode to keep from dragging anchor. We had a bit of excitement when I overheard a radio call for our friends (Steve & Lulu) from a boat (Loose Pointer) that is anchored about a hundred yards from their boat (Siempre Sabado). I had been looking up the channel at our friends' boat, trying to tell if it was moving closer to the sea wall located in front of the marina. From my vantage point it looked like it might be and if so, could spell disaster. When the call went unanswered, I called Loose Pointer and asked if he could tell if Siempre Sabado was getting closer to the wall. He said that it was and that he was trying to locate the owners so he could inform them. He said all he had extra was a Danforth anchor that might hold it, but was light. I said that I had an extra 45 lb CQR anchor and 250 ft of 1" anchor rode. We agreed to meet at their boat and secure it with an the additional anchor. Of course my extra CQR was at the bottom of the back lazaret. I ran out to the cockpit and began throwing the contents to Judy who transferred them forward and out of the way. Luckily the rode was right next to the anchor. Once the anchor was loaded, ( Not an easy feat in high swells ) I grabbed the outboard motor and secured it to the dinghy. Off I went, hoping that enough fuel was in the outboard to complete the task, as in the excitement I failed to throw in the oars.
When I arrived at our friends' boat, which was becoming precariously close to the sea wall, Dan from Loose Pointer was on the bow and had already secured his Danforth anchor to the boat. The seas were a lot worse close to the wall and as I came along side Siempre Sabado I stood up and grabbed the toe rail. I reached down and picked up the rode which had become quite heavy, due to getting soaked on the way over. When I tried to lift it up to Dan a big wave hit the dinghy and along with the downward pressure exerted by my lifting the rode, the dinghy damned near capsized. It took about six inches of water over the side. Of course by that time I was knocked down and the water got me soaked. I hate it when that happens. Oh well, it was head around the other side to execute plan "B," which was to toss the free end of the rode to Dan, on what was hopefully a calmer side, yeah right! I damned near went swimming again. Eventually I got all of the tangles out of the rode and headed out into the waves with the 45lb anchor hanging off the side while I acted as counter balance on the other side. When Dan motioned for me to drop the anchor, I did and at the same time another wave hit, adding to my counter balance and I'll be damned if I didn't almost go swimming again.
After regaining my balance, not to mention my composure, I returned to the boat and asked Dan if he wanted me to set the anchor with the dinghy. He said that he felt it dig in and that it was okay. I told him that I was low on fuel and must go before running out, but if he needed me again to give me a call. He okay and I headed back to Wind Raven. By the time I got back the seas were much worse and I had difficulty securing the dinghy to the side, so opted to let it trail off the stern. I then donned dry clothes and sat down for a hot meal.
About an hour later I saw Steve on the bow of his boat pulling anchor. I was going to go down and see if he needed help, but before I could get ready he had them up and was heading our way. He re-anchored about a hundred yards from us and seemed to be okay. I sat around a bit with my conscience gnawing at me for not going over to see if he wanted me to set the CQR from my dinghy that we had used to secure his boat. It got the better of me so into the dinghy I went. I started the motor and headed towards his boat. I got about thirty feet when the engine quit. I was now adrift in high wind and seas. And to top it all off I was headed directly towards the wall. To top it off, I had once again forgotten to throw in the oars. Finally I yelled loud enough to get Steve’s attention, but his response was “yeah I’m okay now.” No, no, no, I’m not, My motor died. I finally got my message across despite the howling wind and breaking waves. Unfortunately, Steve had already taken off his outboard, so had to put it back on his dinghy. This can be a major feat in this kind of weather, especially if you don’t want to use your motor on the bottom as an anchor in the near future. By the time he got it on and was on his way to me, I was becoming very nervous eyeing the rapidly approaching sea wall. Obviously he made it to me in time, but it was nip and tuck there for a while. I threw him a line and he pulled me to a safe distance from the wall before I finally got my engine started. We then headed back in tandem. The waves and wind were getting ornery to a point where when Steve’s boat's bow lifted over a wave, the wind caught it and flipped him around in the opposite direction. I can’t speak for anyone else, but it was a bit exhilarating for me. A good day is a day that ends well, and we were all tucked in warm and cozy last night. All is well!
When I arrived at our friends' boat, which was becoming precariously close to the sea wall, Dan from Loose Pointer was on the bow and had already secured his Danforth anchor to the boat. The seas were a lot worse close to the wall and as I came along side Siempre Sabado I stood up and grabbed the toe rail. I reached down and picked up the rode which had become quite heavy, due to getting soaked on the way over. When I tried to lift it up to Dan a big wave hit the dinghy and along with the downward pressure exerted by my lifting the rode, the dinghy damned near capsized. It took about six inches of water over the side. Of course by that time I was knocked down and the water got me soaked. I hate it when that happens. Oh well, it was head around the other side to execute plan "B," which was to toss the free end of the rode to Dan, on what was hopefully a calmer side, yeah right! I damned near went swimming again. Eventually I got all of the tangles out of the rode and headed out into the waves with the 45lb anchor hanging off the side while I acted as counter balance on the other side. When Dan motioned for me to drop the anchor, I did and at the same time another wave hit, adding to my counter balance and I'll be damned if I didn't almost go swimming again.
After regaining my balance, not to mention my composure, I returned to the boat and asked Dan if he wanted me to set the anchor with the dinghy. He said that he felt it dig in and that it was okay. I told him that I was low on fuel and must go before running out, but if he needed me again to give me a call. He okay and I headed back to Wind Raven. By the time I got back the seas were much worse and I had difficulty securing the dinghy to the side, so opted to let it trail off the stern. I then donned dry clothes and sat down for a hot meal.
About an hour later I saw Steve on the bow of his boat pulling anchor. I was going to go down and see if he needed help, but before I could get ready he had them up and was heading our way. He re-anchored about a hundred yards from us and seemed to be okay. I sat around a bit with my conscience gnawing at me for not going over to see if he wanted me to set the CQR from my dinghy that we had used to secure his boat. It got the better of me so into the dinghy I went. I started the motor and headed towards his boat. I got about thirty feet when the engine quit. I was now adrift in high wind and seas. And to top it all off I was headed directly towards the wall. To top it off, I had once again forgotten to throw in the oars. Finally I yelled loud enough to get Steve’s attention, but his response was “yeah I’m okay now.” No, no, no, I’m not, My motor died. I finally got my message across despite the howling wind and breaking waves. Unfortunately, Steve had already taken off his outboard, so had to put it back on his dinghy. This can be a major feat in this kind of weather, especially if you don’t want to use your motor on the bottom as an anchor in the near future. By the time he got it on and was on his way to me, I was becoming very nervous eyeing the rapidly approaching sea wall. Obviously he made it to me in time, but it was nip and tuck there for a while. I threw him a line and he pulled me to a safe distance from the wall before I finally got my engine started. We then headed back in tandem. The waves and wind were getting ornery to a point where when Steve’s boat's bow lifted over a wave, the wind caught it and flipped him around in the opposite direction. I can’t speak for anyone else, but it was a bit exhilarating for me. A good day is a day that ends well, and we were all tucked in warm and cozy last night. All is well!
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Lazy Days
There really isn't much to write about these days, with the exception of my frustrations with equipment problems. Today Victor is coming out to the boat to find out why our VHS won't transmit on high power. I have done all I can to figure it out, to no avail I'm sad to say. I will also remove the other high pressure hose on the water maker and have a new one made up monday. Its mate blew up on our way down and got sea water in the auto pilot control box. This resulted in the auto pilot failure. We called the auto pilot manufacturer to see if they were still in business. The good news is they are. The bad news is that a new unit will cost $1600. Some more good news, (sort of) is that they will ENTIRELY rebuild our old unit with ALL new parts for $800. We can send it up to be rebuilt and Judy can pick it up when she goes up to her daughter's wedding in Oregon next month.
Yesterday I entered a cruisers dart tournament, thinking that I could still be competitive. Ha! not even. Actually it was kinda embarrasing for someone who, back in the late 80s, was an ADO representative and a world competitor. I couldn't hit anything. I could use the excuse that tournament was held in a windy area, which it was. The problem with that is that it was windy for everyone, so THAT dog won't hunt. I could mention the fact that I now wear glasses, but I remember several great players that do also. So that cup won't hold water. I could say that the torn rotator in my shoulder caused my ineptness, but in reality I know the real reason. It is lack of practice, practice, practice! I haven't thrown serious darts since the late 80s and back then I practiced on an average of at least six hours a day. As they say, "Practice makes perfect." Hey! If that's true, the boat must just need more practice! It was just inactive for toooo looooooooong!
Yesterday I entered a cruisers dart tournament, thinking that I could still be competitive. Ha! not even. Actually it was kinda embarrasing for someone who, back in the late 80s, was an ADO representative and a world competitor. I couldn't hit anything. I could use the excuse that tournament was held in a windy area, which it was. The problem with that is that it was windy for everyone, so THAT dog won't hunt. I could mention the fact that I now wear glasses, but I remember several great players that do also. So that cup won't hold water. I could say that the torn rotator in my shoulder caused my ineptness, but in reality I know the real reason. It is lack of practice, practice, practice! I haven't thrown serious darts since the late 80s and back then I practiced on an average of at least six hours a day. As they say, "Practice makes perfect." Hey! If that's true, the boat must just need more practice! It was just inactive for toooo looooooooong!
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Burgers
Yesterday we went to town to try and find a bulb for a bow light that burned out on our trip down. One was located at the fourth and last marine supply in La Paz. It is a bit difficult getting parts here at times. While out we ate a burger at a local eatery, where the hamburger meat actually tasted like real ground beef. Don't get me wrong, the food here is great, but sometimes you start jonesing for an American burger and fries. The burger and fries with a margarita and a non-alcholic beer ran a little over $23.00. That's about the same as we paid for an equivelent burger in Eugene OR. We tried a less expensive place that had good burgers with all the trimings, but the meat didn't taste quite like real hamburger meat. Their fries were excellent though. Okay enough about food, that's Steves department and I will infringe no more. He is much better at it anyway. In case you wish to read his and Lulu's blog, here is the link. http://yodersafloat.blogspot.com/
Judy and I also went to the local Mercado downtown. It actually has butcher shops where they cut your meat the way you want it. Just like the, now non-existant, independent butcher shops used to do in America. But then that was back when Americans could get real service at the local shops. Now that the big corporations have taken over, it seems that the American business's have a "take it or leave it" attitude.
We also got rid of an extra sail that was a bit short and just taking up valuable space in the boat. When we returned to the boat after walking around in the heat all morning, it was siesta time. I think I can get used to this lifestyle. After the siesta, it was back to reading our books, without the fishing this time. Today I have to get serious about getting the boat ready for our island hop to our next port. I am still having problems getting the VHS to transmit on high, so will address that issue today. I know the problem is 12 volt power related. I will also install the newly aquired bulb for the bow light. After that? Why, siesta time of course! Maybe even a little fishing! Damn, this is such a hard life down here.
Judy and I also went to the local Mercado downtown. It actually has butcher shops where they cut your meat the way you want it. Just like the, now non-existant, independent butcher shops used to do in America. But then that was back when Americans could get real service at the local shops. Now that the big corporations have taken over, it seems that the American business's have a "take it or leave it" attitude.
We also got rid of an extra sail that was a bit short and just taking up valuable space in the boat. When we returned to the boat after walking around in the heat all morning, it was siesta time. I think I can get used to this lifestyle. After the siesta, it was back to reading our books, without the fishing this time. Today I have to get serious about getting the boat ready for our island hop to our next port. I am still having problems getting the VHS to transmit on high, so will address that issue today. I know the problem is 12 volt power related. I will also install the newly aquired bulb for the bow light. After that? Why, siesta time of course! Maybe even a little fishing! Damn, this is such a hard life down here.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Channel Cat
Yesterday while spending the day just kicking back and since I wasn't moving around much, I decided to do a little fishing in the bay where we are anchored. At first I put on a lead head with a white rubber worm. I was getting so many hits from small bass that they were destroying my rubber worms. After going through a few, I put on a couple of hooks and baited them with some pieces of the squids that had mysteriously appeared on deck one morning on our trip down the Pacific Coast. I figured I would kick back with a good book and use the fishing as an occasional interupter, just to keep it interesting. You know, a bite every hour or so? Well that was not to be. As soon as the bait hit the bottom I had a fish on. To my surprise, when I landed this little guy ( 12" to 14") it looked suspiciously like the Channel Catfish I caught while in Oklahoma. Nah, no way, catfish live in fresh water. For the next three or four hours I caught one of these fish every two to five minutes. It was fun, but I wasn't getting much reading done. Finally I gave up the fishing and read my book. Later last night I looked up Channel Catfish on the internet and discovered they do live in the tropical areas of the ocean. So my suspicions were correct. They were Channel Catfish! I have been fishing for catfish all my life and never knew they were in the ocean also. It goes to show you, no matter how old we are, there is always more we can learn!
We also took some older electronics and a sail that we replaced on our boat to the local cruisers swap meet. The electronics sold in the first ten minutes and we had several people interested in the sail that we gave cards to. Last night one of those people called and said he would be over this morning to buy it. I guess he measured his rig and found it would fit. Great now we will have a little more room. Not to mention a little extra money. This anchoring out is great, cause it's free, and there ain't much of that left in our society these days!
Ya know, I really like that word, ( FREE ). I don't know what it conjures up in your mind, but in mine the list is endless. Especially if you add "dom" to the end of it. Mexico isn't totally free, as no organized society is. But ya know, in my humble opinion it sure as hell beats the USA. Oh! and to all you folks up there that say " If you don't like it, leave it" Well I did, and I'm loving it!
We also took some older electronics and a sail that we replaced on our boat to the local cruisers swap meet. The electronics sold in the first ten minutes and we had several people interested in the sail that we gave cards to. Last night one of those people called and said he would be over this morning to buy it. I guess he measured his rig and found it would fit. Great now we will have a little more room. Not to mention a little extra money. This anchoring out is great, cause it's free, and there ain't much of that left in our society these days!
Ya know, I really like that word, ( FREE ). I don't know what it conjures up in your mind, but in mine the list is endless. Especially if you add "dom" to the end of it. Mexico isn't totally free, as no organized society is. But ya know, in my humble opinion it sure as hell beats the USA. Oh! and to all you folks up there that say " If you don't like it, leave it" Well I did, and I'm loving it!
Monday, April 4, 2011
Kicked Back!
Yep, thats what we are, "kicked back." We haven't done much in the last three days except relax and enjoy paradise. La Paz days are in the 80s with the nights in the 60s. This is what we call perfect weather. We are anchored off the city's front walkway, known here as the "Malecon" which always seems to have some event in progress with many venders and a carnival like atmosphere. The city of La Paz has its venders everywhere, but they are not pushy like the venders in Tiajuana or Ensenada. They are very polite and respectfull. Quite a pleasant change from the border cities.
Steve and Lulu joined us for a late lunch, or early dinner yesterday. We had a great time doing nothing. Actually Steve did help us set up our Skype account, so we can now call our kids and friends in the states for next to nothing. It's a much better deal than a cell phone!
I will not be able to upload/download photos on the blog until I figure out how to shrink them down on windows 7. It is very different from windows vista. I'll figure it out sooner or later. If you want to make it sooner, don't be bashfull, tell me how!
Steve and Lulu joined us for a late lunch, or early dinner yesterday. We had a great time doing nothing. Actually Steve did help us set up our Skype account, so we can now call our kids and friends in the states for next to nothing. It's a much better deal than a cell phone!
I will not be able to upload/download photos on the blog until I figure out how to shrink them down on windows 7. It is very different from windows vista. I'll figure it out sooner or later. If you want to make it sooner, don't be bashfull, tell me how!
Friday, April 1, 2011
April Fools Day e.g. Anniversary
It's April 1st and Judy and my first anniversary. Yep, we were married on April Fools day one year ago today in Reno Nevada. Today has been a good day. We went to the Immigration oficina and picked up our FM 3 visas. Made an appointment with the Doctor for Judy. Dropped off our VHF radio with Victor to figure out why we can only transmit on the low power mode. Went to the bank to see if anyone has made their payment yet. We stopped by the Super Macado (super market) on our way back to pick up our laundry. Then it was off to the dinghy dock for a ride back to the boat. We anchored it yesterday in about 18' of water. How do I know? I finished the wiring on the Sonar and it works great! I am very impressed with its capabilities. It looks forward, down, and 180 deg. to port and starboard. Now we will have a fighting chance to avoid any errant shipping containers lurking in the night. It is my understanding that they loose thousands every year off of ships around the world. Unfortunately, they all don't sink to the bottom. I can't understand why they don't make them sink when they go overboard. We decided to splurge and go out for dinner tonight. Actually it is not expensive to eat out here. A great meal with much more than you can eat will run under $25 for two. Well I better go for now, Judy wants to check her e-mail. Oh yeah, we got our internet back on.
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