May 8, 2014

Although the wind continued to blow up to gale force periodically throughout the week, I was able to get a lot of interior work done.   Because Jose was unable to work some days, I could complete some steps that had to be done outdoors.  Jose has brought on an additional helper to make up some time, so I am still planning on taking the boat down to Channel Islands Harbor to be hauled out on Monday.  Jose will spray the top coats of AwlGrip in the yard, and the yard will put on new bottom paint.  Over the weekend I will need to re-stow a lot gear in order to make the trip.   It’s still very hectic, but a lot is getting done.

Late breaking news:  Jose decided at the end of the day today that he needs a couple of more days, so tomorrow I will try to reschedule the haulout for Wednesday morning.  And that's the way it's been and why I'm tired tonight!

May 1, 2014

This week's challenges were double:  trying to juggle projects and tasks around Jose's somewhat unpredictable work and then strong winds wreaking havoc on the whole painting effort.  Most of the cabin, cockpit and deck got a quick coat of high-build primer before the winds came up.  Once the wind started howling, no sanding, no painting and the plastic sheeting around the boat was shredded.  At least Hector was able to complete and fit the new sail cover, which came out fine.  No zippers, which always fail; lots of twist fasteners. I did errands, domestic chores and a bit of work on other projects as part of my juggling act.  Jose took the aft lazarette hatch, propane tanks and the cockpit sole to his shop for sanding, priming and painting.  We talked to the boat yard today about hauling out to spray the final coats of Awl Grip.   They okayed it if I pay them for a bottom paint job and lay days.  "Scheduled" for a week from Monday. That will be another couple of thousand or so.....Well, you can't take it with you.  And after nearly four years, it's time for new bottom paint!