Getting more time to sail
Hi Cal Folks,
The last few days here in Pensacola have been perfect, 5 - 15 knots
of breeze, low 70's, clear, sunny skies. After our Cal 25 sail last
week, we are once again stoked, ready for more sailing. Since family
health issues prevent us cruising off on our Cal 46 for a while,
days sails on Bravura our Cal 25, (Thanks Janet) have become a
perfect release.
I rigged a jib downhaul, small line from a block by the tack,
through the hoist cringle, back to the tack, other end led through
two small fairlead blocks back to the cockpit, so I can douse the
jib and retain it on deck without leaving the cockpit. Seems Mr.
Arthur Ritis, my enemy has attacked my knees as well as my hands.
This jib downhaul works great and allows me to get back into the
Bayou's calm waters before going on the foredeck. Now we just need a
young, strong foredeck person with a good atitude for this racing
season.
Anyway, back to the "more time to sail" issue. Since retiring May
1988, we have enjoyed about six years of cruising in Satori, our Cal
46 and will do more in the future. While we have been hanging out at
our Bayou Chico home/dock I have taken on some boat engine and
transmission repair, which I really enjoy and it buys more toys. The
hurricanes of the last two years took too much of our time, but
provided me with many more engines to repair. But, "Mr. Arthur
Ritis" seems to be winning and after a day of engine work, mostly
looking for things I have dropped, I have decided to reduce the
inventory. With some help, I have developed a website,
www.bshmarine.com, and am trying to market as is items.
Hopefully, more time for sailing!
Tom and Bobbie Vandiver