Well, here I am beginning the work of cleaning and clearing the boat for winter storage...and just looked back at my last blog entry. Bad, bad.
On the 14th of August, Susan and I had a delightful brunch with her friends in Harbor Springs, and then a quiet night on Sonador. The next morning, we took off for the run back to Charlevoix -- and found that the westerly winds of the last several days had created some impressive swells on our bow for almost three full hours. Sophie was not a happy camper...and I wasn't exactly ecstatic. But, with throttles full we made the bridge along with several other boats seeking the refuge of Charlevoix's Round Lake.
The next day, Susan moved over to stay with her friends on Walloon Lake, and I settled into another lazy couple of days of hanging around with friends on the dock. Saturday, I drove over to Cheboygan to say farewell to friends who have been convinced by family and fellow boaters that they should give up boating. A sad, sweet evening of remembrance and fellowship with about twenty friends. Stayed overnight on Moku Hale...Sophie liked the spacious interior and room to stretch out, but she doesn't have the money for a larger boat, so we are staying with Sonador.
At the end of the next week, I took Susan and other friends up visiting from Florida for a day out on Lake Charlevoix, including anchoring for lunch in Horton's Bay -- and then they treated us to dinner at a local eatery. The next several days are notable for the amount of eating out and partying around Charlevoix with boating friends -- seems that we could never quite put together two consecutive days of good weather for a short overnight in the area.
Wednesday, the 28th, good friends Jay and Phillip joined Susan and I for a trip back down to Horton's Bay and an afternoon of special fun -- even spent some considerable time swimming (or what passes for swimming for me) in the warmish waters. We really had a good time, and hated to pull up anchor around 6 p.m., but we were turning into prunes and running out of wine at the same time, so back to the dock.
Over the Labor Day Weekend, I drove down to Elk Rapids to spend the night with Jo and Ron at her parents' wonderful home right on the beach of Grand Traverse Bay. Sophie alerted to a rock awash just off the beach, entertaining all of us with her ferocity...it took a second alarm before she determined it was harmless.
Sunday, I returned to Irish just in time for the annual Labor Day party on shore...as is custom in the boating world, we all brought food to share and our own drinks. The rain and wind didn't deter us as we took shelter at Ferry Beach in one of the large covered picnic areas. Nothing would do, but we planned to get together the next night at Robin and Laura's home just up the hill from the marina for more pot luck.
In the interim, on Monday, Charlevoix held the 25th annual bridge walk for the benefit of one of the local charities. Starting to gather a the Town Bar for Bloody Marys around 11:30, the crowd grew to a couple hundred people including Jay and Phillip before we set off with much pomp to walk the short block across the draw bridge and assemble on the other side. At 1:30, the bridge tender closed the vehicle gates, the high school band assembled, and after the pledge to the flag and remarks by the mayor (thankfully very short and cheerful), the crowd marched out into the traffic lanes and sauntered back across the bridge. I'm pretty sure the cars and motor homes that were trying to make their way down state by the only road along this side of Michigan didn't appreciate our frivolity, but...
Last evening was a lovely night visiting with Susan and her friends on Walloon.
And, this morning I've been digging thru lockers, throwing out old paint cans, lots of unidentifiable bottles of possible cleaners and waxes, and trying to make a plan for finishing all the cleaning that must be done. We need some sun shine to make this really work...and it looks like tomorrow might be okay for some serious scrubbing.
Doesn't sound like prior summers, does it? Well, I am convinced that barring unforeseen circumstances I am returning to the North Channel next year, and the adventures that go with that part of the world.
Wednesday, September 4, 2013
Tuesday, August 13, 2013
Fun, Boating, Friends...and Weather
My friend Susan came up on Monday, August 5th to spend ten or so days cruising with me. Plans for crossing Lake Michigan were cancelled due to predictions of high winds mid-week (as soon as we could even think about beginning to cross) -- so, we moved to Plan B.
Sometimes, Plan B is just as much fun as the original. We take off on Tuesday for Elk Rapids -- a nice, sunny day, with low winds (thus little waves). The marina was chock-a-block, so we ended up in a slip that was a little too short and definitely too narrow for a graceful entrance -- so, after taking a nice hunk out of the piling with my port side rub rail, we settled in for two nights. Beautiful days, long walks, visits in town to all the stores -- and another round of purchases at my favorite vintner. In the interim, the predicted weather out on Lake Michigan materialized for one day.
On Thursday, we motored around Mission Point and down toward Traverse City -- once again sunny and low wind (almost glass on the water). We couldn't get into the downtown marina, so we ended up at Elmwood Township about two miles outside of town. A great marina, with comfortable docks, nice on-shore facilities, nice staff -- BUT, just the smallest strip of grass to walk Sophie (after we found out that the nearby park was off limits to dogs) and the convenience store is across busy M-22 which is the major route between Traverse City and Suttons Bay, Northport, and Leland (with no cross walk). First evening, did walk over to a Tuscan Bistro where we had a good dinner but the noise level was a little hard to take (why is it that people believe you have to yell across the table when you are a party of four?)
Friday, our friends Jay and Phillip showed up bearing gifts from Shanghai, China -- silk jewelry bags for Susan and I, and a pearl necklace for Ms. Sophie. No, I am not kidding, real pearls -- just not perfect nor perfect size match! I'll post picture of the prima donna later. Apparently not all that unusual, the lady who strung the pearls assured Jay that they have lots of requests for pet necklaces -- I just bet it's for pocket dogs not rough and tumble Airedales. Afterwards, the guys took us to a winery on the Mission Peninsula -- Bowers -- where we sat in the bright sunshine consuming two bottles of wine. Then into Traverse City for a delightful lunch at OM, a local vegetarian eatery that has gained quite a reputation for delicious food -- well deserved. Back to the boat, and Susan and I just relaxed for the balance of the day.
Saturday, our friend Jan drove up from Arcadia -- and we went on into Suttons Bay for a delightful lunch and visit at Martha's followed by an afternoon of shopping (window and otherwise). Then back to the boat, wondering around the marina and the nearby Yacht Club to boat watch.
Sunday, we motored in the same weather conditions back to downtown Charlevoix to stay at the City marina for one night. Rounded up friends, Oat and Rosemarie (ALMOST HEAVEN), Fish and Sue (FISH TAILS), Chuck and Joann (MOKU HALE) and drove to Horton Bay to have dinner at the General Store. This is a functioning general store which in the last three years has brought in a chef to do small plates in the evening for dinner -- delightful food, shared around the table with a few bottles of wine out in the back garden. Ernest Hemingway used to hang out here as a young man, so there is a lot of history and I'm sure wild stories to go along.
Monday, we left Charlevoix around noon for the "strenuous" two hour motor over to Harbor Springs on the north shore of Little Traverse Bay. Another resort community with private home owners' associations of lovely big homes on the water front. MOKU HALE is also here, a couple of docks away at Irish. We went out for dinner last night with Chuck and Joann. Today we awoke to cold, blustery winds and dark grey clouds -- although it hasn't really rained yet, we've had sprinkles and it is still cold. Lunch today with Rich and Sandra (TRIFID) who drove over from Duncan Bay -- otherwise it would be next summer before we would see each other. Tonight, dinner on MOKU HALE, and tomorrow plans are for brunch with some of Susan's good friends from her childhood before we head back to Charlevoix -- or not, depending on the winds and weather.
Sometimes, Plan B is just as much fun as the original. We take off on Tuesday for Elk Rapids -- a nice, sunny day, with low winds (thus little waves). The marina was chock-a-block, so we ended up in a slip that was a little too short and definitely too narrow for a graceful entrance -- so, after taking a nice hunk out of the piling with my port side rub rail, we settled in for two nights. Beautiful days, long walks, visits in town to all the stores -- and another round of purchases at my favorite vintner. In the interim, the predicted weather out on Lake Michigan materialized for one day.
On Thursday, we motored around Mission Point and down toward Traverse City -- once again sunny and low wind (almost glass on the water). We couldn't get into the downtown marina, so we ended up at Elmwood Township about two miles outside of town. A great marina, with comfortable docks, nice on-shore facilities, nice staff -- BUT, just the smallest strip of grass to walk Sophie (after we found out that the nearby park was off limits to dogs) and the convenience store is across busy M-22 which is the major route between Traverse City and Suttons Bay, Northport, and Leland (with no cross walk). First evening, did walk over to a Tuscan Bistro where we had a good dinner but the noise level was a little hard to take (why is it that people believe you have to yell across the table when you are a party of four?)
Friday, our friends Jay and Phillip showed up bearing gifts from Shanghai, China -- silk jewelry bags for Susan and I, and a pearl necklace for Ms. Sophie. No, I am not kidding, real pearls -- just not perfect nor perfect size match! I'll post picture of the prima donna later. Apparently not all that unusual, the lady who strung the pearls assured Jay that they have lots of requests for pet necklaces -- I just bet it's for pocket dogs not rough and tumble Airedales. Afterwards, the guys took us to a winery on the Mission Peninsula -- Bowers -- where we sat in the bright sunshine consuming two bottles of wine. Then into Traverse City for a delightful lunch at OM, a local vegetarian eatery that has gained quite a reputation for delicious food -- well deserved. Back to the boat, and Susan and I just relaxed for the balance of the day.
Saturday, our friend Jan drove up from Arcadia -- and we went on into Suttons Bay for a delightful lunch and visit at Martha's followed by an afternoon of shopping (window and otherwise). Then back to the boat, wondering around the marina and the nearby Yacht Club to boat watch.
Sunday, we motored in the same weather conditions back to downtown Charlevoix to stay at the City marina for one night. Rounded up friends, Oat and Rosemarie (ALMOST HEAVEN), Fish and Sue (FISH TAILS), Chuck and Joann (MOKU HALE) and drove to Horton Bay to have dinner at the General Store. This is a functioning general store which in the last three years has brought in a chef to do small plates in the evening for dinner -- delightful food, shared around the table with a few bottles of wine out in the back garden. Ernest Hemingway used to hang out here as a young man, so there is a lot of history and I'm sure wild stories to go along.
Monday, we left Charlevoix around noon for the "strenuous" two hour motor over to Harbor Springs on the north shore of Little Traverse Bay. Another resort community with private home owners' associations of lovely big homes on the water front. MOKU HALE is also here, a couple of docks away at Irish. We went out for dinner last night with Chuck and Joann. Today we awoke to cold, blustery winds and dark grey clouds -- although it hasn't really rained yet, we've had sprinkles and it is still cold. Lunch today with Rich and Sandra (TRIFID) who drove over from Duncan Bay -- otherwise it would be next summer before we would see each other. Tonight, dinner on MOKU HALE, and tomorrow plans are for brunch with some of Susan's good friends from her childhood before we head back to Charlevoix -- or not, depending on the winds and weather.
Friday, August 2, 2013
More Cool and Wet Weather
Friday night fireworks became Saturday night fireworks -- really a very spectacular show for a relatively small community -- and everyone (Fish, Sue, and Rosemarie -- later Oat) came over to my boat to watch.
Sunday, a return of the drizzle and periods of sun that have characterized most of the last two weeks. Charlevoix did send off the second round of fireworks on Sunday night, but we all stayed hunkered down in our boats because of the cold.
Then there were a couple of days where it looked like it might be promising enough to venture out -- only to have the evenings and nights punctuated with strong winds, thunder, lightening, and RAIN. It is now Friday, the second of August, and as I sit here it is drizzling again and there is a definite chill in the air. So, no plans for today except to keep dry and warm.
Have, of course, not suffered for lack of things to do -- including a day of shopping in Petoskey with Rosemarie (where naturally the sun came out after we had concluded that boating was out for the day) and a pleasant dinner on Lake Charlevoix with Oat and Rosemarie later in the week. There are some talented chefs in this part of the world, so the diet has gone with the wind.
Hope to be out of here Tuesday morning for ten days or so of boating with my friend Susan who is driving up from Florida this weekend. Sure hope the weather holds! And, NOT THIS WEATHER.
Sunday, a return of the drizzle and periods of sun that have characterized most of the last two weeks. Charlevoix did send off the second round of fireworks on Sunday night, but we all stayed hunkered down in our boats because of the cold.
Then there were a couple of days where it looked like it might be promising enough to venture out -- only to have the evenings and nights punctuated with strong winds, thunder, lightening, and RAIN. It is now Friday, the second of August, and as I sit here it is drizzling again and there is a definite chill in the air. So, no plans for today except to keep dry and warm.
Have, of course, not suffered for lack of things to do -- including a day of shopping in Petoskey with Rosemarie (where naturally the sun came out after we had concluded that boating was out for the day) and a pleasant dinner on Lake Charlevoix with Oat and Rosemarie later in the week. There are some talented chefs in this part of the world, so the diet has gone with the wind.
Hope to be out of here Tuesday morning for ten days or so of boating with my friend Susan who is driving up from Florida this weekend. Sure hope the weather holds! And, NOT THIS WEATHER.
Saturday, July 27, 2013
Venetian Rained Out!
Last evening was supposed to be our big dock party -- everyone bringing something to share, and roaming the docks while a local singer entertained us -- BUT
It rained all day, or at least all afternoon, and not just a gentle drizzle which boaters can dodge without any problem. No, this was the real thing -- a down pour with pelting rain, winds, and significant cold that kept all but the most fool hardy inside their own boats. Reported about 2 1/2 inches in the local area -- much needed by the farmers et al -- but not by Charlevoix's town fathers for whom Venetian weekend is the highlight of the summer.
So, I entertained friends Jay and Phillip from Traverse City in my cockpit -- eating the hors d'oeuvres that we all had made to share with the dock, drinking wine, and catching up on the summer's activities. Not a bad way to spend an evening, but it was sad that few of us were able to enjoy the company of everyone in town.
The fireworks were, of course, cancelled.
Today, it has been in the upper fifties maybe low sixties, and is grey as all get out. A good day to make a vat of chili -- and to just hunker down and read. Tonight, assuming that the sky doesn't think it needs to make a repeat of last evening, the postponed fireworks are scheduled to be launched.
I can watch them from the stern of the boat -- so that is what I intend to do -- keeping warm and dry.
The entire week ahead is supposedly like this. So much for boating weather. Good books and friends to visit with will make up the difference.
It rained all day, or at least all afternoon, and not just a gentle drizzle which boaters can dodge without any problem. No, this was the real thing -- a down pour with pelting rain, winds, and significant cold that kept all but the most fool hardy inside their own boats. Reported about 2 1/2 inches in the local area -- much needed by the farmers et al -- but not by Charlevoix's town fathers for whom Venetian weekend is the highlight of the summer.
So, I entertained friends Jay and Phillip from Traverse City in my cockpit -- eating the hors d'oeuvres that we all had made to share with the dock, drinking wine, and catching up on the summer's activities. Not a bad way to spend an evening, but it was sad that few of us were able to enjoy the company of everyone in town.
The fireworks were, of course, cancelled.
Today, it has been in the upper fifties maybe low sixties, and is grey as all get out. A good day to make a vat of chili -- and to just hunker down and read. Tonight, assuming that the sky doesn't think it needs to make a repeat of last evening, the postponed fireworks are scheduled to be launched.
I can watch them from the stern of the boat -- so that is what I intend to do -- keeping warm and dry.
The entire week ahead is supposedly like this. So much for boating weather. Good books and friends to visit with will make up the difference.
Saturday, July 20, 2013
Of Dragons, Tall Ships, and Sleeping Dogs
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| The little blue dragon sailing out to the big lake from Suttons Bay |
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| The tall ship underway thru the anchorage at Suttons Bay |
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| Sophie has had it! Too much excitement for any dog to take. |
Friday, July 19, 2013
Suttons Bay: Blue Dragons, Tall Ships, and a Wet Dog
Hopefully I'll be able to post some pictures later -- have had zero success for the last several posts.
Anyway, departed Charlevoix as planned on Wednesday and motored out into Lake Michigan, where a southwesterly blow was building white caps and waves -- much noise and bouncing around which made for an unhappy dog. But, once we tucked into Grand Traverse Bay and got behind the Leelanau Peninsula, the water flattened out and Sophie even went down below to her bed for the quiet motor into Suttons Bay.
The Bay is a little more than two miles long and ends at an expansive beach where boats can anchor in about twenty feet of water. So, with much planning ahead -- and a few mistakes in getting the anchor free from the boat -- I was able to set the anchor between two sailboats. Lowered the dinghy to take Sophie ashore. By that time, Chuck and Joann on Moku Hale arrived, so I detoured past them and then headed into the dinghy dock in town. A decent landing, but pretty ungraceful scrambling up and out of the dinghy for the captain -- Sophie simply jumped up on the dock! Later I found a beach near the marina to pull into -- made for wet feet, but less drama.
We had cocktails on Moku Hale, and agreed to get together the next morning for shopping and lunch. It was hot, even with a wind blowing -- so sleep was fitful.
The next morning was bright and hot. After a trip ashore for Sophie, I came back to the boat to wait to call Moku Hale. And, out from the beach came a small blue dragon -- some child's beloved swim wings that had escaped and was heading out of the bay pushed by the winds and the small waves. It visited several boats before continuing north, last seen disappearing against the blue water. Not a few minutes later, the local school ship -- a small schooner left it's dock near us and motored past -- another photo op!
Later in the morning, we rode into town together on Moku Hale's dink, and roamed the main drag. Into our second store, and somebody commented that it was pouring rain!!! What's a boater to do when all the windows and hatches are open, but the run to the dinghy and ride back would take us at least 30 minutes? We opted to wait it out, and in less than ten minutes the showers had passed and we stepped out into an even steamier environment. A nice lunch in town, then back to the boats -- Sonador appeared to be dry!!!!
Later we joined Cheryl and Larry on Meretricious for cocktails and dinner in town.
And, for Sophie a final dinghy ride for the day back to the dinghy dock -- it was getting dark and the beach was not an option -- but this time jumping on the dock didn't work, and she ended up in the water and NOT HAPPY! But, I dragged her back onboard the dinghy and gave her another opportunity to go ashore -- this time successfully. Guess I'm lucky I didn't go in with her.
Last night at anchor was not restful -- not that I thought I would drag after all the pushing of strong winds for the past twenty four hours -- the snubber on the anchor line made all sorts of loud and disturbing sounds as Sonador shifted to ride with the winds and waves in the harbor. I wasn't the only one to have a sleepless night, so this morning Moku Hale took off before 10 a.m. for Traverse City, and I followed within half an hour to motor the sixteen miles in chop, white caps, and lots of spray into Elk Rapids.
I'm here until Monday morning.
Anyway, departed Charlevoix as planned on Wednesday and motored out into Lake Michigan, where a southwesterly blow was building white caps and waves -- much noise and bouncing around which made for an unhappy dog. But, once we tucked into Grand Traverse Bay and got behind the Leelanau Peninsula, the water flattened out and Sophie even went down below to her bed for the quiet motor into Suttons Bay.
The Bay is a little more than two miles long and ends at an expansive beach where boats can anchor in about twenty feet of water. So, with much planning ahead -- and a few mistakes in getting the anchor free from the boat -- I was able to set the anchor between two sailboats. Lowered the dinghy to take Sophie ashore. By that time, Chuck and Joann on Moku Hale arrived, so I detoured past them and then headed into the dinghy dock in town. A decent landing, but pretty ungraceful scrambling up and out of the dinghy for the captain -- Sophie simply jumped up on the dock! Later I found a beach near the marina to pull into -- made for wet feet, but less drama.
We had cocktails on Moku Hale, and agreed to get together the next morning for shopping and lunch. It was hot, even with a wind blowing -- so sleep was fitful.
The next morning was bright and hot. After a trip ashore for Sophie, I came back to the boat to wait to call Moku Hale. And, out from the beach came a small blue dragon -- some child's beloved swim wings that had escaped and was heading out of the bay pushed by the winds and the small waves. It visited several boats before continuing north, last seen disappearing against the blue water. Not a few minutes later, the local school ship -- a small schooner left it's dock near us and motored past -- another photo op!
Later in the morning, we rode into town together on Moku Hale's dink, and roamed the main drag. Into our second store, and somebody commented that it was pouring rain!!! What's a boater to do when all the windows and hatches are open, but the run to the dinghy and ride back would take us at least 30 minutes? We opted to wait it out, and in less than ten minutes the showers had passed and we stepped out into an even steamier environment. A nice lunch in town, then back to the boats -- Sonador appeared to be dry!!!!
Later we joined Cheryl and Larry on Meretricious for cocktails and dinner in town.
And, for Sophie a final dinghy ride for the day back to the dinghy dock -- it was getting dark and the beach was not an option -- but this time jumping on the dock didn't work, and she ended up in the water and NOT HAPPY! But, I dragged her back onboard the dinghy and gave her another opportunity to go ashore -- this time successfully. Guess I'm lucky I didn't go in with her.
Last night at anchor was not restful -- not that I thought I would drag after all the pushing of strong winds for the past twenty four hours -- the snubber on the anchor line made all sorts of loud and disturbing sounds as Sonador shifted to ride with the winds and waves in the harbor. I wasn't the only one to have a sleepless night, so this morning Moku Hale took off before 10 a.m. for Traverse City, and I followed within half an hour to motor the sixteen miles in chop, white caps, and lots of spray into Elk Rapids.
I'm here until Monday morning.
Tuesday, July 16, 2013
Hot, Muggy, Buggy Michigan
The Rendezvous was great fun -- seeing old friends and meeting new. Ending with a special afternoon and evening at Castle Farms, a restored "Normandy style" farm which hosts special events and weddings here in Charlevoix. I'll go back for another leisurely self guided tour later this summer!
Now, all the GLCC boats have left Charlevoix, and I'm getting ready to go out for a week also -- you can only stayed tied up for so many days in a row, before the boat starts to grow legs.
Planning on anchoring in Suttons Bay for a couple of nights, then into Elk Rapids for the weekend at the marina there, then who knows where before returning here on Tuesday or Wednesday of next week.
Sophie has her summer cut and is surely feeling cooler -- but we are hunkering down in the air conditioning as a heat wave with associated humidity has descended on the area. Yesterday in was in the low nineties. Now, I know that's nothing like other parts of the country are suffering under -- but for a place that frequently requires a light fleece at nights, this isn't fun.
Oh, and the fish flies -- aka May flies -- have been HORRIBLE. We've had five or six hatches as opposed to the normal one or two -- and they have covered the boats and docks for days. Today, I finally washed Sonador with the hope that yesterday's hatch was the last for the season.
Now, all the GLCC boats have left Charlevoix, and I'm getting ready to go out for a week also -- you can only stayed tied up for so many days in a row, before the boat starts to grow legs.
Planning on anchoring in Suttons Bay for a couple of nights, then into Elk Rapids for the weekend at the marina there, then who knows where before returning here on Tuesday or Wednesday of next week.
Sophie has her summer cut and is surely feeling cooler -- but we are hunkering down in the air conditioning as a heat wave with associated humidity has descended on the area. Yesterday in was in the low nineties. Now, I know that's nothing like other parts of the country are suffering under -- but for a place that frequently requires a light fleece at nights, this isn't fun.
Oh, and the fish flies -- aka May flies -- have been HORRIBLE. We've had five or six hatches as opposed to the normal one or two -- and they have covered the boats and docks for days. Today, I finally washed Sonador with the hope that yesterday's hatch was the last for the season.
Wednesday, July 10, 2013
Time Flies!
It is already the tenth of July, and I have no idea where the time has gone. But, life is back to normal -- got fuel yesterday (with one hundred gallons covered for my "inconvenience") and this is after I decided not to pursue any claim -- this is much too small a community to get into a shouting match with the service people. Am back at Irish, riding out a couple of days of rain and thunder, but at least it has turned cooler after several hot and muggy -- thanks goodness for air conditioning -- days.
The Great Lakes Cruising Club (GLCC) is having the annual rendezvous here this year -- starting yesterday with the "pre-rendezvous dock gathering" -- or an excuse to catch up with boating buddies from past years, meet new people, and generally enjoy good food and drink. Today, there will be a more formal reception under a tent near the Charlevoix bridge, pictures will be taken, and there will be short remarks by the "officers" of the Club. Tomorrow, a pancake breakfast followed by two seminars -- one on cruising northern Lake Michigan and the second on the history of Round Lake (that's Charlevoix's harbor) -- followed by dinghy and kayak races. Friday, the formal Commodore's dinner at Castle Farms just down the Lake from the city. It should all be good fun.
Next week I plan to take a few days and cruise around this area with some of my boating buddies.
The Great Lakes Cruising Club (GLCC) is having the annual rendezvous here this year -- starting yesterday with the "pre-rendezvous dock gathering" -- or an excuse to catch up with boating buddies from past years, meet new people, and generally enjoy good food and drink. Today, there will be a more formal reception under a tent near the Charlevoix bridge, pictures will be taken, and there will be short remarks by the "officers" of the Club. Tomorrow, a pancake breakfast followed by two seminars -- one on cruising northern Lake Michigan and the second on the history of Round Lake (that's Charlevoix's harbor) -- followed by dinghy and kayak races. Friday, the formal Commodore's dinner at Castle Farms just down the Lake from the city. It should all be good fun.
Next week I plan to take a few days and cruise around this area with some of my boating buddies.
Thursday, July 4, 2013
Happy Fourth of July!
It's foggy and dreary on the Lake this morning, but will supposedly clear by afternoon. Charlevoix does not have fire works for the Fourth -- they reserve all the explosions for Venetian which is in two weeks -- but there will be fireworks in surrounding communities which we should be able to observe from the back deck.
The pump out of diesel at Irish went very well -- by a little after noon yesterday I could see the bottom of the fuel tank and by 3 p.m. I was back in my regular slip. Now, I have to talk "turkey" with the people who originally pumped the gas into the tank and present them with the bill from Irish. Otherwise, I've started the claim process with Boat US (my insurance) at their suggestion.
Life is almost back to normal, and life is good.
Happy Fourth of July to all.
The pump out of diesel at Irish went very well -- by a little after noon yesterday I could see the bottom of the fuel tank and by 3 p.m. I was back in my regular slip. Now, I have to talk "turkey" with the people who originally pumped the gas into the tank and present them with the bill from Irish. Otherwise, I've started the claim process with Boat US (my insurance) at their suggestion.
Life is almost back to normal, and life is good.
Happy Fourth of July to all.
Monday, July 1, 2013
When You're Smiling, Keep on Smiling and....
It's the only answer!
Tomorrow, early afternoon, Sonador will be towed over to Irish's main boat yard to have her diesel (sorry about the earlier misspelling) tank drained fully! This morning I talked at length with the diesel mechanic, and he advised that he wouldn't take to the chance with gasoline in the tank that could be anywhere from 5% to 15% of the fuel. Diesel engines depend on the fuel to keep smooth running -- gasoline, in it's pure form will not lubricate the engines/pistons/etc the way diesel does and, in fact, could etch to the pistons and the rest of the engines to the point that they would need significant repairs or replacements.
Russ and Mary Alice Allen did not raise a fool (at least I'd like to think they didn't). The cost of draining the tanks (more later on the approach) is less than one tenth of the replacement costs (not including labor) of a single engine on Sonador and we have two!
Irish proposes to extract the diesel from the "pick up" point where the engines are fed the fuel rather than the "fill" point which Ward's used. The latter is more accessible, but since there was at least 30 gallons of fuel still in the tanks, they weren't what one would call emptied.
Good thing I had planned to hang around for a few days :)
Oh, it has turned dry, bright sunshine and gusty winds -- a perfect day for sitting at the dock and visiting with friends.
Tomorrow, early afternoon, Sonador will be towed over to Irish's main boat yard to have her diesel (sorry about the earlier misspelling) tank drained fully! This morning I talked at length with the diesel mechanic, and he advised that he wouldn't take to the chance with gasoline in the tank that could be anywhere from 5% to 15% of the fuel. Diesel engines depend on the fuel to keep smooth running -- gasoline, in it's pure form will not lubricate the engines/pistons/etc the way diesel does and, in fact, could etch to the pistons and the rest of the engines to the point that they would need significant repairs or replacements.
Russ and Mary Alice Allen did not raise a fool (at least I'd like to think they didn't). The cost of draining the tanks (more later on the approach) is less than one tenth of the replacement costs (not including labor) of a single engine on Sonador and we have two!
Irish proposes to extract the diesel from the "pick up" point where the engines are fed the fuel rather than the "fill" point which Ward's used. The latter is more accessible, but since there was at least 30 gallons of fuel still in the tanks, they weren't what one would call emptied.
Good thing I had planned to hang around for a few days :)
Oh, it has turned dry, bright sunshine and gusty winds -- a perfect day for sitting at the dock and visiting with friends.
Saturday, June 29, 2013
Some Days are Great and Others Not So
After a day of hanging around the marina -- with a short break for shopping in Petoskey where Dan and Jaye found "necessities" at the best kitchen store and I found another spectacular soap stone carving from the Six Nations of Ontario -- we celebrated the summer with friends Oat and Rosemarie and Fish and Susan eating at the local bar on Ferry Beach.
Tuesday, it turned clear and warm, so we decided to run down Lake Charlevoix to Boyne City for lunch. Well, those of you who are boaters will understand that plans are only that. After a brief tour of the south arm of the Lake where there are very large and elegant homes side by side with smaller cabins, we turned around and motored down the north arm to Boyne City. But, I'm not that thrilled by the docks at Boyne which extend unprotected into the Lake, so we just looped by the City and blasted north at over twelve knots toward Charlevoix -- why not just have a late lunch there before returning to the marina? Only, a Captain can again change plans, and I called for overnight accommodations. We had travelled 34 miles to explore the Lake and deserved the treat. So, we had another nice evening in Charlevoix downtown again sharing a meal with the gang.
Wednesday, Dan and Jaye took off to visit friends in Michigan and Canada on their way back to Annapolis, and I went over to Cheboygan by car for Bud Zalon's annual hot dog roast. Visited with Mel and Sue on Class Act and with Ted and Venetia on Fairy Tail -- friends and boats I normally see throughout the summer in the North Channel.
Decided to stay until Friday morning at the Charlevoix City docks. So far, this has been a great week.
Friday morning I took the car over to Ferry Landing, hiked back with Sophie who was in seventh heaven 'cause it's a longer walk and full of interesting smells. And, motored over to the fuel docks for a pump out and diesel fill. Sixty plus gallons of fuel, and the young man who was helping us said those words you don't want to hear (and can't be repeated on public airways) followed by "I gave you gasoline NOT diesel!" My heart stopped, Oat (who was kindly riding with me to help at the docking) reacted much the same way.
The solution? Well, the tank had to be emptied of over one hundred and sixty gallons of fuel which was now a mixture of diesel and gas -- Sonador holds a little over 200 hundred gallons. I consulted with Oat's mechanic in Ohio and with the people at Irish -- they both confirmed that (1) we should let the boat sit for a while to let the lighter gas rise to the top of the tank, (2) that the engines should not be started (thank goodness we hadn't started to leave the dock), (3) that as much as possible of the fuel in the tanks should be siphoned out, and (4) the tanks should be refilled with diesel fuel all the way to the brim, and then and only then turned on. It took over six hours to complete this -- all the while, I'm hovering like a mother duck hoping that there will be no long term damage. The first siphoning with one pump appeared to be almost pure gas -- it was clear -- the second pump which was started about half an hour later showed pink -- diesel -- and the combination of the two pumps managed to pull as much as the attendants could reach. We were able to add back over one hundred and seventy-five gallons of diesel.
Bottom line, I guess that will depend on how the summer goes. BUT, I should be okay assuming that the gasoline which may be left in the tank is little enough that mixing at a ratio of less than ten percent gas to diesel will not harm the engines. There is no way to tell, except to run the engines and continue to add diesel to the tank about every fifty gallons to increase the amount of diesel in the mixture.
Oh, and pray!
I'm back at Ferry Landing, and will re-start my summer now.
Tuesday, it turned clear and warm, so we decided to run down Lake Charlevoix to Boyne City for lunch. Well, those of you who are boaters will understand that plans are only that. After a brief tour of the south arm of the Lake where there are very large and elegant homes side by side with smaller cabins, we turned around and motored down the north arm to Boyne City. But, I'm not that thrilled by the docks at Boyne which extend unprotected into the Lake, so we just looped by the City and blasted north at over twelve knots toward Charlevoix -- why not just have a late lunch there before returning to the marina? Only, a Captain can again change plans, and I called for overnight accommodations. We had travelled 34 miles to explore the Lake and deserved the treat. So, we had another nice evening in Charlevoix downtown again sharing a meal with the gang.
Wednesday, Dan and Jaye took off to visit friends in Michigan and Canada on their way back to Annapolis, and I went over to Cheboygan by car for Bud Zalon's annual hot dog roast. Visited with Mel and Sue on Class Act and with Ted and Venetia on Fairy Tail -- friends and boats I normally see throughout the summer in the North Channel.
Decided to stay until Friday morning at the Charlevoix City docks. So far, this has been a great week.
Friday morning I took the car over to Ferry Landing, hiked back with Sophie who was in seventh heaven 'cause it's a longer walk and full of interesting smells. And, motored over to the fuel docks for a pump out and diesel fill. Sixty plus gallons of fuel, and the young man who was helping us said those words you don't want to hear (and can't be repeated on public airways) followed by "I gave you gasoline NOT diesel!" My heart stopped, Oat (who was kindly riding with me to help at the docking) reacted much the same way.
The solution? Well, the tank had to be emptied of over one hundred and sixty gallons of fuel which was now a mixture of diesel and gas -- Sonador holds a little over 200 hundred gallons. I consulted with Oat's mechanic in Ohio and with the people at Irish -- they both confirmed that (1) we should let the boat sit for a while to let the lighter gas rise to the top of the tank, (2) that the engines should not be started (thank goodness we hadn't started to leave the dock), (3) that as much as possible of the fuel in the tanks should be siphoned out, and (4) the tanks should be refilled with diesel fuel all the way to the brim, and then and only then turned on. It took over six hours to complete this -- all the while, I'm hovering like a mother duck hoping that there will be no long term damage. The first siphoning with one pump appeared to be almost pure gas -- it was clear -- the second pump which was started about half an hour later showed pink -- diesel -- and the combination of the two pumps managed to pull as much as the attendants could reach. We were able to add back over one hundred and seventy-five gallons of diesel.
Bottom line, I guess that will depend on how the summer goes. BUT, I should be okay assuming that the gasoline which may be left in the tank is little enough that mixing at a ratio of less than ten percent gas to diesel will not harm the engines. There is no way to tell, except to run the engines and continue to add diesel to the tank about every fifty gallons to increase the amount of diesel in the mixture.
Oh, and pray!
I'm back at Ferry Landing, and will re-start my summer now.
Sunday, June 23, 2013
Northport and Beyond
Beyond being Charlevoix -- approximately 21 nautical miles from Northport.
Don't NOAA predicted heavy fog -- and they were right about that -- and very strong winds -- they weren't so right about that. So, after one night in Northport, we decided to head back to Charlevoix and try our hands at land touring for a couple of days.
The trip back in the fog was uneventful. We left Northport Marina in a line of five sailboats and Sonador, but it was soon obvious that we wanted to go just a little faster than the sailboats were moving, so we moved out to take the lead. Motored at around 7 knots -- with the radar scanning the horizon for unknown objects -- and visibility of about half a mile most of the time. I had said that I wanted to see more of Lake Michigan, but I had in mind seeing a little more than grey water and grey sky in half mile increments.
By the time we reached Charlevoix's harbor entrance -- the Pine River -- the fog was thinning out and we were able to motor over to Irish's Ferry Landing Marina.
As I sit here on Sunday morning, the fog has moved in again on Lake Charlevoix -- it was bright sunshine earlier when Sophie and I went for our morning walk -- and there is a distinct chill in the air. We'll probably just stick around here, 'til things get brighter.
Don't NOAA predicted heavy fog -- and they were right about that -- and very strong winds -- they weren't so right about that. So, after one night in Northport, we decided to head back to Charlevoix and try our hands at land touring for a couple of days.
The trip back in the fog was uneventful. We left Northport Marina in a line of five sailboats and Sonador, but it was soon obvious that we wanted to go just a little faster than the sailboats were moving, so we moved out to take the lead. Motored at around 7 knots -- with the radar scanning the horizon for unknown objects -- and visibility of about half a mile most of the time. I had said that I wanted to see more of Lake Michigan, but I had in mind seeing a little more than grey water and grey sky in half mile increments.
By the time we reached Charlevoix's harbor entrance -- the Pine River -- the fog was thinning out and we were able to motor over to Irish's Ferry Landing Marina.
As I sit here on Sunday morning, the fog has moved in again on Lake Charlevoix -- it was bright sunshine earlier when Sophie and I went for our morning walk -- and there is a distinct chill in the air. We'll probably just stick around here, 'til things get brighter.
Thursday, June 20, 2013
Underway at Last!
After several wonderful days at the Charlevoix City Marina, renewing old acquaintances and meeting new folks, my friends Dan and Jaye from Annapolis arrived on Tuesday afternoon -- and we set "sail" on Wednesday morning.
Not a long trip, mind you, but an enjoyable four plus hours motoring into Grand Traverse Bay and all the way down the Bay to Traverse City. The seas were glassy calm, the sun bright but there was a bit of a chill to the air -- perfect day for just gliding along at about 9 knots. We are now docked at the City Marina -- a nice facility next to a large water front park that curves around the bottom of the Bay for a couple of miles. Sophie likes that 'cause we can go for leisurely strolls on the grass. Dan and Jaye treated us to fish and chips at a local brewery -- and yes, we did try the beer.
Downtown Traverse City is one long block away from the Marina. So we've dragged Main looking into all the stores, purchasing books at a local (and very well managed/stocked) book store and also buying our share of "Cherry" products. Traverse City is the Cherry Capital -- later this month, they'll celebrate the Cherry Festival for a couple of weeks!
Tomorrow, our plan is to motor the short ten miles to Northport for the evening -- don't yet know whether we'll be in the marina or anchored (the marina does not take reservations!) Then, with predicted deteriorating weather we'll motor back to Charlevoix. If, however, don't NOAA is wrong again, we'll hang out for a couple of days at Suttons Bay (a larger and more developed community just south of Northport.)
It's good to be on the water, and to know that the summer has really begun.
Pictures later.
Not a long trip, mind you, but an enjoyable four plus hours motoring into Grand Traverse Bay and all the way down the Bay to Traverse City. The seas were glassy calm, the sun bright but there was a bit of a chill to the air -- perfect day for just gliding along at about 9 knots. We are now docked at the City Marina -- a nice facility next to a large water front park that curves around the bottom of the Bay for a couple of miles. Sophie likes that 'cause we can go for leisurely strolls on the grass. Dan and Jaye treated us to fish and chips at a local brewery -- and yes, we did try the beer.
Downtown Traverse City is one long block away from the Marina. So we've dragged Main looking into all the stores, purchasing books at a local (and very well managed/stocked) book store and also buying our share of "Cherry" products. Traverse City is the Cherry Capital -- later this month, they'll celebrate the Cherry Festival for a couple of weeks!
Tomorrow, our plan is to motor the short ten miles to Northport for the evening -- don't yet know whether we'll be in the marina or anchored (the marina does not take reservations!) Then, with predicted deteriorating weather we'll motor back to Charlevoix. If, however, don't NOAA is wrong again, we'll hang out for a couple of days at Suttons Bay (a larger and more developed community just south of Northport.)
It's good to be on the water, and to know that the summer has really begun.
Pictures later.
Sunday, June 16, 2013
Charlevoix City Marina
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| Looking south over the Marina - the dark hull is Sonador |
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| And, from the other direction. The sailboat to the right belongs to friends Kathy and Dave -- they winter at Irish also, and are North Channel explorers. Like me, and so many others, they fled to the City Marina to avoid the midges! |
Saturday, June 15, 2013
Charlevoix City Marina -- Devoid of Bugs but Overcast
I do have pictures to post -- just having connection problems.
Meanwhile, the "adventures" continue.
Yesterday I begged a ride from Kathy and Dave back to Ferry Landing to "pick up" my dinghy -- that is to have me start the motor and bring it around to the city marina to pair it up with the mother ship. So, loaded with oars, gasoline, my life jacket, and a portable VHF radio, we drove over -- BUT, we forgot to bring the inflation bellows. Oh, well, a little softness in the side chambers and no pressure in the floor -- let alone about an inch plus water in the bottom -- never hurt anyone. So, after several tries, the motor started and I was off. Wish I had a picture -- the dinghy was so soft that I could only sit on the seat, the bow bent upwards and the motor was dangerously close to the water line. Glad the US Coast Guard wasn't looking out their windows as I tooled by -- might have been hauled in for insanity. However, an hour or less and I was tied up to the stern of Sonador -- and pumping up the inflatable chambers (still holding this morning) and pumping out the water (no additional in the dinghy now). All is well that ends well, but this really wasn't the smartest of stunts.
More friends are down at the City Marina, so a bunch of us (Kathy and Dave (Katherine Ann) and Oat and Rosemarie (Almost Heaven) went to the local eatery last evening to have fish and chips and to catch up on winter doings.
I'll work on the pictures later today.
Meanwhile, the "adventures" continue.
Yesterday I begged a ride from Kathy and Dave back to Ferry Landing to "pick up" my dinghy -- that is to have me start the motor and bring it around to the city marina to pair it up with the mother ship. So, loaded with oars, gasoline, my life jacket, and a portable VHF radio, we drove over -- BUT, we forgot to bring the inflation bellows. Oh, well, a little softness in the side chambers and no pressure in the floor -- let alone about an inch plus water in the bottom -- never hurt anyone. So, after several tries, the motor started and I was off. Wish I had a picture -- the dinghy was so soft that I could only sit on the seat, the bow bent upwards and the motor was dangerously close to the water line. Glad the US Coast Guard wasn't looking out their windows as I tooled by -- might have been hauled in for insanity. However, an hour or less and I was tied up to the stern of Sonador -- and pumping up the inflatable chambers (still holding this morning) and pumping out the water (no additional in the dinghy now). All is well that ends well, but this really wasn't the smartest of stunts.
More friends are down at the City Marina, so a bunch of us (Kathy and Dave (Katherine Ann) and Oat and Rosemarie (Almost Heaven) went to the local eatery last evening to have fish and chips and to catch up on winter doings.
I'll work on the pictures later today.
Thursday, June 13, 2013
The Midges Won the War
And, this morning I retreated to the Charlevoix City Marina where it is unbelievably midge free (only a mile from Irish). I hesitated for a few seconds -- winds were clocking at 20 plus miles per hour -- but placed the call at 8 a.m., and by 10 a.m. Sonador was snugly tucked into a slip downtown. By 2 p.m. all vestiges of those creatures were gone, and Sophie and I enjoyed a leisurely lunch on the bow midge free!!
Should have done this two days ago, but I kept wishing that the plague would end -- several other boats from Irish and neighboring marinas are down here, so I shouldn't be ashamed. Besides, my dear friends Dan and Jaye are coming from Annapolis on Tuesday, and there was no way to clean the boat with all the bugs. Sometime over the next day or so, I will go get the dinghy which sits covered with bugs and wishing life were different.
Today was the farmers' market in Charlevoix which is in the park right in front of the marina -- I bought some fresh asparagus, home made bread, cannelli bean hummus, and lettuce -- it's always rewarding with both the good food and the support of local farms to roam the stalls of the local markets.
I'll get some pictures posted tomorrow of our new environs -- in the interim, Sophie and I are happy campers!!
Should have done this two days ago, but I kept wishing that the plague would end -- several other boats from Irish and neighboring marinas are down here, so I shouldn't be ashamed. Besides, my dear friends Dan and Jaye are coming from Annapolis on Tuesday, and there was no way to clean the boat with all the bugs. Sometime over the next day or so, I will go get the dinghy which sits covered with bugs and wishing life were different.
Today was the farmers' market in Charlevoix which is in the park right in front of the marina -- I bought some fresh asparagus, home made bread, cannelli bean hummus, and lettuce -- it's always rewarding with both the good food and the support of local farms to roam the stalls of the local markets.
I'll get some pictures posted tomorrow of our new environs -- in the interim, Sophie and I are happy campers!!
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
Fog, bugs, and drizzle
And you thought living on a boat was all dreamy evenings sipping cocktails and enjoying sunsets -- well, not so. For the past several days, we've been experiencing the spring hatch of midges -- pesky swarms of harmless flying things that penetrate your mouth and nose, your clothes, your hair, and make the simple task of walking Sophie a pain. Then, this morning, I woke to dense fog which should burn off by noon -- couldn't see the end of the dock, let alone the shore which is only two hundred feet at most. The combination of bugs and fog just isn't very pleasant.
Yesterday, drove by car over to Cheboygan to visit with Jo and Ron on Annwfn (pronounced an u vin) before they take off for a summer on Lake Superior. We sat outside at Duncan Bay, commenting on the boats, weather, and life in general -- had a great visit over a bottle of Zinfandel! Then, to top off the evening, I went to the Cheboygan Yacht Club's weekly dinner meeting in downtown Cheboygan, visiting with friends BD and Rick and others. Heading back on Saturday to Duncan Bay for their annual pig roast and pirate dinghy run -- yes, boaters can be a little crazy at times, but that is what makes us so interesting :)
First trip will be next week, when Jaye and Dan from Annapolis come up to visit the ports on Grand Traverse Bay for seven or eight days. It'll be good to move out and see if the bugs will leave us alone.
Yesterday, drove by car over to Cheboygan to visit with Jo and Ron on Annwfn (pronounced an u vin) before they take off for a summer on Lake Superior. We sat outside at Duncan Bay, commenting on the boats, weather, and life in general -- had a great visit over a bottle of Zinfandel! Then, to top off the evening, I went to the Cheboygan Yacht Club's weekly dinner meeting in downtown Cheboygan, visiting with friends BD and Rick and others. Heading back on Saturday to Duncan Bay for their annual pig roast and pirate dinghy run -- yes, boaters can be a little crazy at times, but that is what makes us so interesting :)
First trip will be next week, when Jaye and Dan from Annapolis come up to visit the ports on Grand Traverse Bay for seven or eight days. It'll be good to move out and see if the bugs will leave us alone.
Saturday, June 8, 2013
Pictures as Promised
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| Looking out over Ferry Landing Marina -- our home for the summer on Lake Charlevoix |
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| Ms. Sophie is right at home on Sonador -- she can watch all the comings and goings, and make sure that she gets her fair share of petting and praise. Not too shabby since there is a park just around the corner to play in. |
Thursday, June 6, 2013
Onboard Sonador -- and it's still cold!
Thanks to Lou and Donna, I had a warm bed to sleep in -- not to mention delicious meals -- through the weekend and into the first couple of days of this week.
Yesterday, Wednesday the 5th of June, I moved onboard -- the last of my stuff is out of the car and on the boat -- and prepared my first meal onboard for the summer. It is too cold to be June -- in the low 40's this morning with a brisk wind coming off the lake. Sophie loves the cooler weather, and to be fair, I have to admit that long walks are easier when it is cool than when hot. But, really, this is taking the "north" to a little extreme.
Seems every year, I complain about the cold. And, I get to complain about the midges again too! These are harmless swarms of bugs that populate every nook and cranny of the exterior of the boat, the docks, and the shore line. They look like mosquitoes, but don't bite or anything -- just drive you to distraction. There is no sense cleaning the boat, not 'til they finish hatching, because as soon as it is clean, the midges return.
No one else is staying over at the marina -- yet -- but folks do come down during the day light hours to work on their spring lists of repairs, fixes, and improvements. I won't call down the wrath of Neptune by boasting about Sonador.
Tuesday, one of the mechanics from Irish Boat joined me for an hour's sea trial -- running the engines at all range of speeds, and checking on all the electronics. Except that I must switch out my C-Map chip so that I have inland and full Lake Michigan coverage, everything seemed to work like a charm. I even docked with a port side tie -- not my favorite move, but the only solution if I am to be bow in.
Pictures over the next couple of days, promise.
Yesterday, Wednesday the 5th of June, I moved onboard -- the last of my stuff is out of the car and on the boat -- and prepared my first meal onboard for the summer. It is too cold to be June -- in the low 40's this morning with a brisk wind coming off the lake. Sophie loves the cooler weather, and to be fair, I have to admit that long walks are easier when it is cool than when hot. But, really, this is taking the "north" to a little extreme.
Seems every year, I complain about the cold. And, I get to complain about the midges again too! These are harmless swarms of bugs that populate every nook and cranny of the exterior of the boat, the docks, and the shore line. They look like mosquitoes, but don't bite or anything -- just drive you to distraction. There is no sense cleaning the boat, not 'til they finish hatching, because as soon as it is clean, the midges return.
No one else is staying over at the marina -- yet -- but folks do come down during the day light hours to work on their spring lists of repairs, fixes, and improvements. I won't call down the wrath of Neptune by boasting about Sonador.
Tuesday, one of the mechanics from Irish Boat joined me for an hour's sea trial -- running the engines at all range of speeds, and checking on all the electronics. Except that I must switch out my C-Map chip so that I have inland and full Lake Michigan coverage, everything seemed to work like a charm. I even docked with a port side tie -- not my favorite move, but the only solution if I am to be bow in.
Pictures over the next couple of days, promise.
Sunday, June 2, 2013
Arriving at Lake Carlevoix
Had an uneventful trip north -- I-75 is a funnel from Florida to Northern Michigan filled with snow birds and large 53' trucks barreling along at 75 plus miles an hour. At least there are places to stop along the way, including good friends.
Stopped in Cincinnati with Chuck and Joann for two days. We had a delightful time -- Joann took me on a tour of the city and the local art museum (which has a remarkably extensive collection). Chuck was restricted to home because he was scheduled for meniscus surgery on Friday (which I've since learned was successful).
On Saturday, the first of June, I arrived in Boyne City to stay with Lou and Donna for a couple of days before moving onto Sonador. It was sunny, warm (hot for here), and the lilacs were blooming in the woods. We drove to Irish Boat Yard to check on the boat -- she had just been splashed and moved to her new slip. Lots of work to be done before I can move onboard. AND, today it is raining, blowing and in the low 40's. What a change from yesterday!
Sophie remembered the boat, and all the people who greeted her with as much enthusiasm as they greeted me!
Looking forward to really beginning our adventures.
Stopped in Cincinnati with Chuck and Joann for two days. We had a delightful time -- Joann took me on a tour of the city and the local art museum (which has a remarkably extensive collection). Chuck was restricted to home because he was scheduled for meniscus surgery on Friday (which I've since learned was successful).
On Saturday, the first of June, I arrived in Boyne City to stay with Lou and Donna for a couple of days before moving onto Sonador. It was sunny, warm (hot for here), and the lilacs were blooming in the woods. We drove to Irish Boat Yard to check on the boat -- she had just been splashed and moved to her new slip. Lots of work to be done before I can move onboard. AND, today it is raining, blowing and in the low 40's. What a change from yesterday!
Sophie remembered the boat, and all the people who greeted her with as much enthusiasm as they greeted me!
Looking forward to really beginning our adventures.
Monday, May 27, 2013
The Time Has Come
Today, it is stuffing the car with all my possessions -- making sure there is still room for Sophie and me -- and tomorrow as early as we can muster ourselves, we are out of here!
Planning a day to Atlanta, then a day to Cincinnati where I'll stay for two nights with friends Joann and Chuck (sv Moku Hale), then to Ann Arbor, and on Saturday into Boyne City which is the southern end of Lake Charlevoix. I'm staying there for two nights with Lou and Donna (sv Tequila). Finally, on Monday I'll move on-board mv Sonador for the summer.
Looking forward to exploring Lake Michigan, to seeing all my friends. Sophie is looking forward to walking in the cooler air of the Great Lakes.
Next planned posting is at Irish Boat, Charlevoix, MI.
Planning a day to Atlanta, then a day to Cincinnati where I'll stay for two nights with friends Joann and Chuck (sv Moku Hale), then to Ann Arbor, and on Saturday into Boyne City which is the southern end of Lake Charlevoix. I'm staying there for two nights with Lou and Donna (sv Tequila). Finally, on Monday I'll move on-board mv Sonador for the summer.
Looking forward to exploring Lake Michigan, to seeing all my friends. Sophie is looking forward to walking in the cooler air of the Great Lakes.
Next planned posting is at Irish Boat, Charlevoix, MI.
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
Spring Is Coming
While the up north may still be shivering with early spring snows and rain, it is definitely time to begin planning for the trip north this year. There is still work to be done (hopefully being done) on Sonador with a scheduled launch right after Memorial Day.
Right now my plans are to stay in Lake Michigan for the summer -- exploring ports of call on both the Michigan and Wisconsin shores. Probably taking a few short trips of a week or so, rather than being out the whole summer. But, as all boaters know, plans are only that -- weather and serendipity can conspire to change everything.
Right now my plans are to stay in Lake Michigan for the summer -- exploring ports of call on both the Michigan and Wisconsin shores. Probably taking a few short trips of a week or so, rather than being out the whole summer. But, as all boaters know, plans are only that -- weather and serendipity can conspire to change everything.
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