September 29, 2016

Hot, hot, hot!!!! Record-breaking temperatures in the area exceeded 100 degrees! Even in the marina temperatures came close to triple digits. I tried to arrange to do paperwork tasks during the hottest periods because the heat and humidity made physical work miserable. So, the week was pretty evenly divided between boat projects and paperwork. I spent a lot of time on the phone, online and running around to get official business handled. I received my Temporary Import Permit or TIP, which is essential, and printed out what is supposed to be a receipt for pre-paying for the visas for myself and two crew members. I also applied for and paid for a Mexican fishing license. Conversations with my insurance carrier resulted in my needing to get a standing rigging survey done before they will insure me in Mexico. I'm in the process of arranging that now. There's more to do, but I'm less stressed about being able to get it done.

On the project side, the bright work refinishing is nearing completion with work on the transom cap rail half way there, and I did the 250 hour engine service which required way too much boat yoga. The new sail cover is done and looks fine after some adjustments were made. Next week the boat gets hauled out for bottom paint and some other work.

Did I mention I'm exhausted?

 

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!