So yes I am a little behind on this update. It's been a very busy 2 months for us so I am updating now.
As of Aug 28th, we have made ourselves comfortable just outside of Matthews, VA. We visited with Andy's parents one day and the rest of the time that we were there became a comfortable leisurely stay. We went grocery shopping once a week to the local food lion where I remained freshly stocked with groceries. Every morning started slowly with our morning cup of joe and breakfast. Since it's summer, the days are still warm and once the sun goes down, it cools off significantly. The dogs enjoyed getting off the boat every day to explore the nearby campground and mingle with the people ashore. They also demanded their afternoon water time in the river where they chased sticks and learned how to jump off the dock and into the water. Even little George was doing this and got very upset and let you know all about it if you took too long to throw the stick for him to retrieve. Never have I heard such a commanding bark from my little boy.
3rd ~ Sadly today is the day that we get the laundry done, final provisions topped off, make water and take the pups out for their final play with the Fosters on land and in the water. They both got baths this evening and we tied up the dinghy and Free Spirit is now ready to make waves and start moving again. It's been fun staying here for as long as we did and we will certainly have to come back again.
4th ~ Anchor pulled up and left the safety of this anchorage at 7am. We were greeted by our new friends as they waved us off the dock. It was sad to leave. The dogs were also very mad and confused like why are we leaving? We love it here. They played so hard yesterday that today, they both settled down for some good sleep as we cruised northward. We ended the evening in the Solomon Islands. I suppose under different circumstances this would be a nice place to anchor. However, it's so far inside the river that we stayed just outside the Cheseapeke bay and behind the military base. I do not recommend this when the wind is blowing. It's an very unprotected anchorage even though our research advised us that there was some protection. The water was deep so we had to let out more chain than normal but it was rocky and very uncomfortable. I just went to bed and didn't even bother making dinner. The puppies were also getting squishy. Andy went to help another boat that was in distress with a torn sail and it started raining which just made the situation there worse.
5th ~ Not much sleep for either of us. At this point, we just wanted to get to Annapolis and be on the mooring ball, settle in and get some sleep.... Grabbed a ball without issue, sat and cried for minute. This was a huge goal and accomplishment for the both of us. We made it from Clearwater to Annapolis as our maiden trip and while we have had our share of ups and downs, if I had to do it all over again, I would howver, I would just be better prepared for this journey.
6th-12th ~ Well we were supposed to be working for the powerboat and sailboat shows helping to set up but it's been delayed to we have taken the time to be tourists a little. We wandered downtown Annapolis, found our favorite ice cream shoppe for our afternoon or evening treats. Made a trip to the local bread bakery and the grocery store.
13th - 20th ~ TIme to make some progress on this ole gal so she can sparkle for the boat show. I sanded the cockpit table and the companion way cover. Once smooth, I was able to varnish both and applied 3 coats to each. As it's cooler out, it's taking longer to dry but it does look amazing beautiful. Next up, time to paint the topside and remove the remaining fire damage from the e-bikes. The difference is suttle but noticeable for sure. Now she's looking good. We also sanded down the teak handrails and the stand for the wind scoops. Everything got some attention for the time that could dedicate to it. We still have more work to do to finish the project. Both the foredeck and the aft deck need top side repainted and just the aft deck needs varnishing. Weather has changed so we can't finish these projects becuase it's too cold and nothing will dry and we are starting work soon so we won't have time to complete this. We found Truxton Park which is just off Spa Creek that has hiking traiils. The dogs enjoyed it! Lots of new smells, things to see and how far can go on the trails. The dogs also had a shrimp boil for dinner, wow, they loved it!
21st ~ Still not working for the boat shows, we are hopeful this will be very soon as we were told we needed to be by the 8th to start working but as of today, nothing yet. Anyway, Andy went to look at the auto piliot to see if he could figure out what is wrong with it. Low and behold, the block of wood where the auto pilot was attached shattered. So as usual what you think is a quick job, turns into a project that takes days and a ton more hours. Andy had to epoxy and clamp it together. Once dried, he glassed it into the boat and allowed to dry. The auto pilot ram was then reattched and working again.
29th ~ Finally, Andy is able to start working with the Annapolis Boat shows getting the docks ready for the powerboat show. Andy will be work 12+ hours per day getting ready for the boat shows. I will be handling ticket sales and check in during the shows.
October is going to be a great month for us as we look forward to the Sailboat show and extending our trip. we are out of money so we are hoping this will allow us to add some funds to the cruising kitty so we can continue onward. Where will we go? When are we leaving? who knows, there is a lot to decide in the next couple of weeks.
