Saturday, January 21, 2017

Back to Palmas

Monday to Friday, January 9 to 13...Well, we learned that the winch could not be repaired...no parts, so now have to wait and see. Perhaps parts from Aussieland or new winch. 
Next morning we worked installing a new antenna for the chart plotter. Wire had to go through various parts of the boat from the stern to the center counsel. It took a good afternoon but works perfectly now.
Gorgeous sunset on Wednesday, a double rainbow on Thursday. Friday we headed out to Roosevelt  Roads, a deserted naval base. Roads still intact, some buildings as The Commissary, bowling alley, a naval hotel still standing but in need of work. Apartments are still there but apparently have been looted. We did stop for lunch at the Oasis but would not rush back for the food. The roads are full of iguanas, no natural predators around for them.
January 19...Well, no news is good news, correct? Yesterday we got our winch motor back and the final word is no parts or replacement for the Barient. So an order went in to Defender for a brand new Harken that hopefully can be retrofitted. Should be here Friday? ?
The marina is full up with the most boats I have seen in two years. Word is getting out that this is a very comfortable place to be.
Last night was chilly the temp went down to 70. We have not eaten dinner outside for a while. Even went to Costco to buy Peter a sweatshirt since he had nothing warmish.
Winds have died and I believe many boaters will be leaving to catch the weather window. 
Lou arrives Saturday with Bug and we look forward to seeing him.
We will just wait  and see when we get out of here.
A happy birthday tomorrow to John.
January  21...Finally we got our fast data back and are able to publish. Unfortunately, I had removed some photos to also get more memory on my tablet and I have lost  them.
Good thing is that the electric winch is on the way!
Gorgeous sunset last night.
January  26...Still here. Apparently installation will begin today. Gorgeous day and same for the seas. Good travelling day.
January 27...It's a beautiful thing but no power yet!
January 30...No news yet! 
February  3...Sea trial today and minor adjustments to the rigging. Spent the last days working on a new sun shade for the front windshield to keep the sun out of the main salon and also when lights are on in the evening, a bit more private.  And, of course, yesterday we looked up and one of the life lines had broken. We figure it was the weight of the fenders and the constant pushing of the water against the dock. A small problem but nonetheless something else. It won't keep us from leaving next Thursday, winds permitting.
February 4...Test drive completed. All is good. A few more minor adjustments tomorrow and a new life line, only the portion that needs to be replaced. Others will be done in the summer. Lou left today for Green Bay but will be back in a few days. Since Wiarton Willie predicts an early spring we have booked our return for April 15 without even having left yet. But all is well and at least we got a good deal for the return. 
Plans are to leave here Thursday after a shop and a visit to get my shot. That should put  us in good stead for the next month! 
February 6...Last night SuperBowl. Great game, wrong team won. Peter had a great time, he thinks. Dinner at Tiki Hut, Mahi and salad again for me, wings and fries for Peter and much Chevas!