Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Back from the Island

We just returned from another practice sail out to Catalina and received to green light to move forward from our honorary guest. Our Dad (not a sailor, but a fisherman) critiqued the outstanding safety issues and caught a few small kelp bass in the process. Notably, these were the first fish by rod and reel caught on the Broken Compass. It was a beautiful weekend on the island, and we spent time walking around the gift shops, looking for fish, and cleaning the bottom of the boat (which was long overdue).

Getting back, we sold Chad's truck last night. Since the Kawasaki ninja decided on it's own accord to take a breather, we are down to the Jeep. With less than one month before we depart, we are leaning our mainland toys and beefing up on supplies. We now have 55 cans of chili on the boat... everyone at the grocery store gives you weird looks when you have a cart full of one item.

The spreadsheet of "action items" is calling my name, so till next time...

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Judgement Day

Cool new gear! We received a great package in the mail with embroidered sailing shirts, "The best" socks for cold weather and a celestial navigation book. Thanks Liz! We look professional, however we have one final test to pass. There is one person Bret and I decided to give unconditional authority over our sailing departure date. Our Father. He understands our motives and abilities better than anyone else on this planet. After 2 months of research, modifications, practice and construction; we are a little behind schedule which leaves us at a slight disadvantage. Our father arrives tomorrow afternoon to sail out to Catalina on the Broken Compass. He will test our knowledge, skills, and safety. Our pass/fail verdict will be presented Sunday upon our return from Catalina of whether we are ready to sail. Wish us well and pray for wind.

Thursday, September 17, 2009

Less than 40 days

Well, we are less than 40 days away from our scheduled departure (October 25th), and the list of things to do is mounting as our time seems to be flying by. Regardless, a departure date is a departure date, ready or not. It would take something pretty serious to stop our plans. We have been researching, working, and purchasing needed equipment tirelessly. The boat is 'under construction,' meaning we put full cover over it so we can leave tools on the deck without other people in the marina complaining.


We also took down the jibsheet, ripped up some of the decking, half hazardly (or more hazardly!) taken apart the electrical system, as we are waiting on replacement parts/materials. I scraped and sanded off the old name from the transom.

Basically, we are currently unsailable, nameless, and without power. Can't wait to pull the pieces together and make this happen! I've always liked a challenge, and the timeclock is always a good competitor, so here we go....