Tanque de Tiburon

2012 First Leg

2012-02-18T17:41:00.000-08:00

Tanque de Tiburon at Santa Rosalia's

Singlar Marina.

The boat's ready, we need to hit the road.

Having moved the boat to Marina San Carlos in July, 2011, it was time to flee the safe harbor and head to the big, scary ocean. All our old boat friends are scattered and off cruising already - we're late! S/v Sea Bourn is already in La Cruz. s/v Yemaya is in La Paz as is s/v JUCE. S/v Gosling is half way to El Salvador. We're late! And Old S/v Summer Wind is sold. S/v Freedom of Kirkland is in Z'huat....we really miss the old gang! But we did get a good visit with m/v Venture Forth. So many are either for sale, sitting and waiting...the cruiser community seems to have a 3-4 year cycle and we are seeing transitions in cruiser faces.

15/16 Feb: Following a dinner with Tom and Joan on Valentine's Day at their home in San Carlos, Tom returned to the boat early Feb 15th and shoved us out of the marina, en route to the Baja. We made a short stop in Algodones Bay for an anchoring shake-down. Later in the afternoon and with a good weather window predicted, we actually set sail to the Santa Rosalia.

Tom at the dock and happy Bill at the helm.

After a beautiful 3-hoursail...we lost the wind and turned on the motor. Later in the evening, the wind picked up

and, of course on our nose, and we saw 32 knots through the night. And it was cold! We bundled in our layers. No sea life to see, either. Just

dang wind.

What we anticipate as usually 70+ miles in about 18 hours turned out to be a 24 hour run with 4-6 foot seas and wind on the nose, all night. It was a very long night and Bill did most of the driving, giving the auto-pilot (Otto) a rest with the turbulent seas and wind. But basically not sleep for either of us.

We arrived in a rain drizzle that actually cleaned off the boat somewhat and as we pulled into a slip at Marina Singlar about 1600, there was actually a double rainbow out over the ocean beyond the bay!! So we take that as a good omen for the rest of the trip.

After a hot shower, we walked into town to Terco's for Xochitl soup and a cold

beer. Santa Rosalia is a lovely town and everyone seems so happy, busy and friendly.

We stumbled back to the boat and hit the sack by 2030...and slept to 0600, like zombies.

The next AM, the northern Baja ferry pulled in behind us. Here's Linda at the dock by our boat and the ferry behind.

17/18 Feb: Relaxing, refueling and refreshing ourselves, we stayed in Santa Rosalia and extra day. Today we took the bus to Mulege to deliver boat parts

(that would be propane tanks and Bourbon...) to m/v Hi Jinx (owners from Bisbee). Their boat is down in Burro Bay and Jinx and Mad Dog have a car, met us in Mulege, gave us a driving tour, had carnitas for lunch then they drove us back to our marina - about 38 miles. Nice to finally see Muilege - a cute town!

Tomorrow we head around Punta Chivato.

PS My new mint plant and herbs are sprouting! Gardening aboard! Mint is for Mojitos....

Jan Feb 2012 Sea of Cortez

2012-02-18T17:02:00.000-08:00

After a rough 2011, we're finally back
at sea! Feels good to be back on the water. It's been a colder winter in Sierra Vista and we actually had to wear some winter clothes for a month!

Between 2011's sailing season with the numerous boat problems, then a fire in June in Sierra Vista and Linda's new knee #2 in November, the year just went away. Hoping for a very different 2012. But we're up and running and en route south....

The big news is that daughter Cristy (in PHX) announced her engagement to Tony and they are planning an October wedding in Hawaii! Looking forward to helping her plan and attending the BIG event.

Happy Cristy and Tony!

Following Linda's excellent Physical Therapy, taxes and house prep, we made a run to San Carlos, bringing Bob and Donna Pfaff down to surprise Joan and Tom in San Carlos. Had a great week and Bob said "I hate this place" as he ordered another cerveza. Had a fun-filled week with a Mark Mulligan concert included. We hosted happy hour on the boat for grins, too.

Joan, Donna,Bill, Bob and Tom aboard Tanque de Tiburon.

Taking Pfaff's back to the house to house sit for a month, we did our final packing and returned with a loaded car - new head, TV and a water heater tank for Tom and Joan...and more shoes for Linda (just kidding). It took almost two weeks to get systems up and ready. Bill installed a new head, fixed the dinghy engine and consulted Omar to make sure our diesel was working well. We visited Club de Capitanes frequently for draft Chope (Negro Modelo) and Mike's best pizza. Had several great evenings with old and new friends - including Mac & Carole from m/v Venture Forth. A new treat was experiencing real Mexican coffee for dessert at Blackie's. Think: coffee, kahlua, tequila, sugar, ice cream....flaming! Yum.

Mac and Carole after Mexican coffee....

Now, off to Sea....

We are still alive and sailing!

2011-04-21T09:16:00.000-07:00

Bill at Sea and Fran"s 60th BD party in San Carlos...

Yes we are still alive and well and sailing in Mexico this winter.

We apologise for the long delay in updating our Blog.

It has been a most interesting, eye-opening, expensive

and educational year....

we started in San Carlos with Tom and Joan, to include thew Soggy Peso Bar!

So far, the Sail Log is close to 30 pages long - which I will not post

on the Blog! However, if anyone wants to take a peak at details,

let us know by email and we will be glad to foward a copy as an

attachment. Perhaps if you are having trouble sleeping....

In summary. we left San Carlos in December and decided to head

straight south to Mazatlan and try to get into warmer waters faster.

Our first phase included broken generator, malfunctioning main sail

boom and no engine due to a cracked injector mount. We limped into Topolobampo for initial repairs. On to Mazatlan, we lost the engine

yet again and sailed on jib only for 113 miles and being towed and

pushed into Marina Mazatlan for repairs of everything. Thanks to

s/v's Gosling, Optical Illusion and Java for big time assist... and to Total Yacht Works for allowing us to earn one of their hats....

Feeling good, we continued south toward San Blas and then on to

La Cruz, with a few stops here and there en route. We enjoyed

La Cruz again and had much socialization with cruiser friends there.

While in La Cruz, we did take a two-week hiatus and bussed home

for a few things. The Mexican bus was interesting, not too bad and

we were on the cheapest one due to our route to Guaymas where the

car was. Thanks again to Tom and Joan for assisting us, babysitting

the car, picking us up and providing a bed and a hot shower!

From La Cruz, we took the "new" jump south toward Bara de Navidad

and Las Hades.

Tsunami!

We met up with s/v Gosling in Tenecitata and "rode out" the Japan

Tsunami in the bay there. Saw some amazing surges in out out

with 10' tide changes and 5 minute ins and outs. Felt as if we were

in a bath tub whirling around. We had actually left for the day as

the water surge was due at mid-day. We returned about 3 only to have

the surges strike at 4:30. A few boats had to quickly move as the

water dropped so low so fast. Much debris was washed from the

estuary jungle and the next morning, the bay was full of cactus,

branches, leaves...no crocs or snakes seen. I really worried the

snakes might crawl into the chain locker and rot....nope.

We enjoyed an intersting lagoon anchorage in Barra with Fran

and Jean-Guy (s/v Gosling) touring us around and showing us

the "Barra Ropes". We attended St. Patrick's Day in Melaque nearby.

Their patron saint is St. Pat, so it was a big deal, fioreworks, carnaval,

rodeo and all. We also spent a day at the Grand Bay Resort at the

luxury pool, thanks to friend's in their marina.

From Barra, we headed south toward Las Hades with several

intermmitent stops. Las Hades is a pretty spot and a nice anchorage

under the med-style resort on the hill, where Bo Derek's "10" was

filmed. I did laundry there at $10 a set - yikes! Our only disappointment

there all the air polution from the bay industry in nearby Manzanillo.

It was always smoggy. But we did enjoy the nice pool at the resort.

Heading back north toward La Cruz, we broke an engine mount. Bill did an amazing Mexi-fix and we limped into the marina and got a repair. Coming and going around Cabo Corrientes was pretty good as it goes there. The plan was to head to La Paz and the Baja but with a short weather winow, we ended up back into

Mazatlan after a stop in San Blas for laundry, fuel and showers. I swear, there's a magnet in Mazatlan. We had a little wind on the docking and had to shift slips - but had S/v Seabourn assisting along with the marina crew. Hum, I don't think we had anything to fix there this time, did we? No, we but noticed a tear in our Genoa so we put up our Jib and stowed the Genoa for future repair or replacement in San Diego.

Next stop: La Paz. We decided to go straight to the Baja, through the Cerralvo channel and into La Paz. The trip started with 20 miles of pea soup fog. Used the radar and the foghorn and it was eerie. After that, pretty benign until we hit the Cerralvo channel, north of Muertos. Had 26 knots and some seas at the entry, then it calmed somewhat. But the exit and through the San Lorenzo channel was a hair-raiser. Bill saw 42 knots of winds and we had 8-10' waves crashing the bow. And followed by the Baja Ferry and another large yacht - who both passed us as we tossed along. SLOB. The San Lorenzo Overnight Bash. whew, was glad to get into Palmira and a quiet slip. Then slept like babies t night!!

From La Paz, the plan is to go north to Puerto Escondido and Loreto Fest and then back to San Carlos, then home by early May. What a winter, so far!!

Fall Escape to Nova Scotia!

2010-12-16T12:58:00.000-08:00

Where did the summer go?

2010-09-06T14:44:00.000-07:00

Just where DID the summer go?

Between house projects, we made a run to the boat/San Carlos a few times and a trip to Dallas to see kids and grandkids. Linda also attended her annual Take Shape for Life conference. (http://www.cardionurse.tsfl.com/)

We also made a long weekend visit to New Mexico, Albuqureque and the Taos area, to see friends. The Enchanted Circle loop near Taos is gorgeous.

July 4th was fun as we had Cristy down from Phoenix and Marty and Michael Jr. visit from CA as well as Karen from Tucson. We did the fireworks and ate fried chicken, our annual treat.

We just had/are having an exceptionally wet monsoon season in Sierra Vista. A total of 10" so far - and 3" of that was in ONE DAY! We had a lake in the back yard!! Bill has been working his butt off around the yard with lots of mowing and trimming, patio furniture re-painting , inside decor painting, tiling...and all the things that go with that....lawn mower repairs, paint clean-up and beer drinking.... Linda was able to do some sewing for the boat (fender covers, etc) and some intense sorting and cleaning, shopping, planning and seeing Cristy, helping friend Lillian...and started doing some baking, as well.

In Dallas, we had the grandkids, Chase and Amber, stay with us at the resort for a few nights before we went to their house and did "car pool" for the week for Vicky while Lindsey was visiting his mom in CA. We had a surprise (to Bill II) visit from Stormy (aka Bill III) and his girlfriend, Cris, who flew in from NC!

And Linda met up with some Army Nurse friends at conference, too....here's Brenda and Patti with Linda.

We have enjoyed the summer mostly at home, seeing a few friends and working on the house and yard. One more trip south to "strip" Tanque de Tiburon for hurricane season, which has already started on the east coast and one threatened way south of San Carlos. We are making lists and gathering information for this upcoming winter trek, when we hope to get even further south of Puerto Vallarta before Christmas. We have "pretty-sure" house sitters lined up with Russ and Jodee from Smoke-N-Blues, who currently have their boat for sale.

We are in hopes of a mini-family gathering over Thanksgiving and are receiving our "RSVPs" and have the guest rooms already filled. One for Robin's and one for Bill's sister Karen. Hoping for Cristy who celebrates her 30th in November!

Our next trip is north. We will visit Tom and Joan in Halifax, Nova Scotia Sep 29-Oct 15. Looking forward to great lobster and expensive beer. Beautiful scenery and culture.

Have a great fall!!!

Linda and Bill

Sail Finale 2010

2010-05-09T13:29:00.000-07:00

See the note below! Just a few pics from our trip back north....enjoy!!! Linda and Bill

So sorry so long in updating but we had some adventures and travels and got busy having fun and..and...no excuses! Our Sail Log is up to date but lengthy, so will NOT add it to the Blog! If you would like to view the Official Tanque de Tiburon Log, we will be happy to email it to you on request. Let us know at sharktank2003@cox.net. We are heading home from San Carlos May 11th, this Tuesday. It's been a great winter! We made FIVE fests! From Carnaval in Mazatlan, to the Boat Show in La Cruz with the Banderas Bay Regatta, Bay Fest in La Paz and Loreto Fest in Puerto Escondido! Met new friends, saw old friends, lost a friend, surfed a wave into San Blas and made YouTube (google San Blas Knockdown...it may still be there). We are tired and ready to go home and rest....Here's a few pics form here and there. I also have more pics on a Kodak Gallery and will also send if you would like to view them! Just know we are fine, boat is fine and we will be back in Sierra Vista soon!

San Blas

2010-03-03T23:07:00.000-08:00

Here's Linda and Tanque de Tiburon on our arrival in San Blas and the Marina!

We left Mazatlan and head south on an overnight passage, then spent two "rolly" nights near Isla Isabela. Here's Bill on the bow infront of the Isabela Rocks we anchored near but we were unable to dinghy to shore to tour due to the state of the seas. Th Blue Footed Boobies will have to wait for the next trip - but the Frigate birds were flying all around!

So we went on to San Blas,

have spent a week, touring the city, the jungle and crocodile farm nearby, meeting new friends, eating and shopping and generally doing boat chores.

San Blas is a delightfully sweet town...stone streets abound so the cars have no shocks, many on bicycles , lots of small mom and pop stores, restaurants, bars, people enjoying the plaza (Bill says it reminds him of the play, "Our Town"!) and arts and crafts from the local Huichil Indians.

Think about this picture - could this be Prescott 1956?

The courtyard of the Flamingos Hotel - lovely!

March 4th - en route to La Cruz with several stops...details to follow - stay tuned!!!

Mazatlan The City+

2010-02-18T23:21:00.001-08:00

A few weeks in Mazatlan flew by! We met new cruise friends on Swan Song (Swan and Al from Hawaii) and Conteneto (John and Penny) and friends of friends on Saucy Lady, Roy and Winona. On dock four, we also met SeaBourn's friends on Summer Wind (Larry and Diana. And many more nice cruiser folks here and there. More details and pics on Carnaval (spelling is correct!) to follow! But here we are at the parade in our new cool decorator masks:

Walking the streets one evening prior Carnaval, we encountered people painting walls, bought flowers from this cute little girl and watched the crew set up many lights and beer stalls.

Now this has no explanation. Out by Cerritos, there is a horse stable that offers BILINGUAL horses! They are doing better than I, I suppose. Is that "Whoa!" or "Alto"?

McCrea's visited Mazatlan and we visited them at their resort...

We also took a dinghy ride and stopped at El Cid resort and marina for lunch. The funny taxi is a polmonia...a VW "Thing" that is unique to Mazatlan. At times, it feels like Mr. Toad's Wild Ride!

The moral to this story, even if you are a dog, beer will get to you. Bill is being kissed by a sea lion at the Aquarium, Linda sizes up a whale skeleton there, as well. And that's a Dorado fish so proudly caught at Cerritos Beach, where we ate fresh grilled lobster and shrimpfor about $12.

We are departing February 19th for parts south...details TF as we go and find wifi!!

La Paz to Mazatlan, The Sail...

2010-02-18T23:06:00.000-08:00

The trip from La Paz to Mazatlan included a stop on Espiritu at Bonanza Bay, around the corner to Muertos Bay and then the 188 mile/39 hour crossing to Mazatlan! We arrived early and had to cruise the Mazatlan harbor from midnight to dawn and then find the "hidden" entry. The longest with two overnights we have done yet. We were able to sail most of the way, too! We felt pretty accomplished to find our way but had a bright moon to guide us. We saw dolphins, some whale spouts and turtles. But rarely another ship at all...felt all alone out there!!! We arrived to Marina Mazatlan January 31st.

Linda in muertos...

See, 188 miles and predicted 50 hours - we did it with sails in 39 hours!!!

Our "Blue Moon"! That's the top of our mast, 50 feet up there, with the anchor light on in Muertos Bay.

Mezteno

2010-01-23T21:42:00.000-08:00

January 17-20: Just a little trip north to Espiritu Santo and had a small bay all to ourselves for three days! It's a long narrow bay, so difficult for more than one boat. Just relaxed. The last two nights had the cormuel swells roll in which made for a rolly night, up and down to check the anchor a lot. Always worry about drifting....not a good thing to run aground! Beautiful bay, had a beach tour for lunch and sun. From the beach, you can see T de T at anchor. It's a big, shallow shoal and why we can't get any closer. Our boat draws 6 feet, meaning the keel hangs down pretty low and would drag.

Came back to the marina for a week as a big wind predicted, which did come through with lotsa wind and a little rain.

How did I ever forget Kirk? And there's Vicky's dog, dishes, awaiting a snack under Kirk's cocktail table....Yum!

San Carlos to La Paz - 2010

2010-01-23T20:19:00.000-08:00

A brief log: What a ride we had!!! From San Carlos December 19th, we headed across the sea with good weather reports from three reliable sources. Mother Nature is sometimes cruel, tho! The original plan was to sail/motor overnight, usually a 18-20 hour run, to San Juanico. However, winds kicked to 30+ knots in with 8-10 foot ocean swells that lasted all night and pushed us south, so we altered our course and headed for Isla Coronado instead. Our auto-pilot, "Otto" hated it, too, and he quit - (as in broke!) so Bill had to hand steer in the rough seas for 22 hours. Our helped a little so he could take a break but it was hard steering. We were both a little "green" , didn't eat much and were awake the entire time so were pooped when we arrived. A short stay for rest overnight, then on to Puerto Escondido (pics below), Los Gatos, San Frandcisco and then on into La Paz.

Now in La Paz, we had Otto fixed, some canvas finished on our sail cover, the boat polished by Bill, of course, the bottom cleaned, some computer antenna problems addressed, saw many friends and much good food around town. We should head toward Mazatlan the 27th with a stop in Muertos before we jump the pond.

Around La Paz, tired Bill, the beach in town, a farmacia where I bought some pills and the "bread guy's" place

La Paz Ladies luncheon - a lovely meal we had...80 women! It's been around for 50+ years for the English-speaking ladies of La Paz. ...and some various foods we've enjoyed...

some friends...wait! How did Joan and Tom get here?

Doug and Carla, Shanna and Jessie

....and Ardy and Marv

Los animales..pelicans in a bay with our boat in back, .whales on the channel, pelican on the dock, hotel parakeets and a dolphin who accidentaly entered our marina

These are "the candles" coming out of Puerto Escondido....have to sail thru them and try to miss the reef....

Sailing south, dinner at anchor and a choppy sea!

Captain Bill sailing us south...a quiet read on board while "Otto" keeps us on track, a sunset and Linda on the beach at Isla San Francisco.

Pics of Tanque de Tiburon: in our slip at Marina Palmira, the cockpit, a sunset from the galley window, the salon and Bill up the ladder.

Christmas on board, in Puerto Escondido, one of my mermaid shells and two charts - the Baja as well as Puerto Escondido - you can see why they call it the "hidden Port" - it is!!

Puerto Escondido and on to La Paz

2010-01-15T08:34:00.000-08:00

(NOTE: The note from San Carlos to the Baja to follow soon! Blogspot is being difficult! Sail log also to follow....)

Hangin' on a ball in Puerto Escondido (the hidden port near Loreto) over Christmas, a nice respite and dinner and friends. Our new dinghy, works like a charm and we love it. Needed to get to shore, as you can see...we don't walk on water well!

Sailing south, an island stop with a sandy beach, BBQ'ing Bill and a dinghy ride and another boat's spinaker.

Our arrival into Marina Palmira On January 29th, 2009 - and a welcome cold drink! Our dock and some wonderful salsa and the "usual" sunset!

The Tailhunter sports Bar on the waterfront/Malecon...several visits with friends

The Baja South band at Club Marlin...and a little friend.

Here's the gang, eating again....

The kitchen at Cllub Marlin.

...and New Year's eve at Marina de La Paz....

The Club Cruceros New Year's eve potluck at...5 PM! That's midnight ZULU time...close eenough!

Club Cruceros Cruisers Clubhouse at Marina de La Paz.

Marina Palmira and La Panga for brunch.

The end - until the next set....!!

Getting ready for the winter trip south!

2009-12-18T21:37:00.001-08:00

Happy Holidays 2009 from

Tanque de Tiburon

I think we are ready. The boat is packed, prepped, stowed, cleaned and provisioned for the 2009/2010 trip south. We depart manana, December 19th, for the Baja. Plans are to spend less time in La Paz and head back to the mainland for Mazatlan and on toward Puerto Vallarta.
A new adventure so we'll see what unfolds!

Be sure to check the other two new blogs, the prep and Thanksgiving, too...

We have three sets of house sitters for the winter so don't need to be home until May. Red is settled with friends here and there and we'll miss the old guy. But truth be known, he hates the boat! He's 14, so don't think I would like it at age 95, either. The Koi and tortoise are in good hands, too.

So how did the packing go? Here's a few shots. Between stowing, we spent time with friends, attended a fundraiser and saw the lighted boat parade in Guaymas. The weather here has been cool, 50's at night and 70's during the day. Bill is ready for further south and warmer.

Here,of course, is the most important shelf on the boat, haha. Just kidding. But I did decorate it!

Christmas at the Captain's Club, a nice small restaurant/bar we like for lunch.

Honest, I need it all! The before picture. Where oh where will it go...??? Bill's comment ----aaaghhh! First the salon, then the galley

And Oscar giving us new rigging. So we are safe and sound at sea. He's just about all the way up the 50' mast, BTW.

Our "SPOT" next to Bill's phone....this little guy sends a message when we push the button and lets the kids and sibs know exactly where we are!!!

Ok, a little better - almost ready to travel!

A new transom sign that people can actually read!!! Yeah! Bill's sitting in the new dinghy placing the 5 separate decals while crabs nibble on his toes.

Ta Da!

And of course, gotta have some Xmas decor!

The one guy we'll miss - Mr. Red, now gray, is floating between Lillian, the house and last year's house sitters, the Donaldson's. As long as he has a lap, a head rub and food, he's happy. He hates the boat....

Fall Prep Trip to San Carlos....

2009-12-18T20:42:00.001-08:00

Our fall trip in prep for winter; we brought the dinghy down, got it to the boat, cleaned up from the hurrican clutter, swabbed the deck and cockpit, cleaned cabinets, scrubbed heads...saw friends in and around..and relaxed a little.

A sign for the fishing license!

A fundraiser at the Captain's Club Bar

Really, what do we do on the boat all day?

Hang out in the cockpit, read, hangout, read, chores, eat, provision and read....

where do I store this basket?

The pig being roasted at the Soggy Peso!

How about Racoon Tracks on our car after a night in the marina! We see the tracks on the boat occasionally, too. They have been known to find the snack cabinet on many a boat - lock up tight or beware! Who knew, racoons at the beach in Mexico?

Sunset at The Soggy Peso near us - with Tom and Joan...

Delivering the new Dinghy in October! She arrived on the roof of our Blazer, then off and inflated in Folker's drivceway and on Pegasus' truck and to the marina...whew, made it to the boat!

Dinghy trials....ahh, she runs smooth!!!

Herer we are with JUCE...Judy and Bruce at The Soggy Peso for a pig roast!

And a sunset at the Soggy Peso beach....

Thanksgiving!

2009-12-18T15:49:00.001-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving from Bill & Linda

Sierra Vista and Prescott

Thanks for hosting, Jim and Amy!

Good to see Marilyn and Bill, as well. And we loved having Michael and Daniel for a few days!!!

We met daughter Marty in Casa Grande and picked up the boys for the week! Here we are at the Cracker Barrel....Bill, Marty, Linda, Michael and Daniel. The exciting week was Kartchner
Caverns, golf, the movies and hanging out - tolerating Linda's cooking....

There was a lot of hanging out. games on the patio.....

For Thanksgiving Day, we traveled to Prescott via Cristy's, picked her up and spent the day at Marilyn's daughter, Amy's and Jim's , house in Prescott Valley....the kids played some pool and we ate and visited.

...here's Michael, Courtney and Ashley playing pool...

Megan, Marilyn, Bill and Jim ....toasting in the driveway? who knows....

Now for dinner.
The usual kids table...
Danny, Courtney, Megan, Ashley and Michael

Ahh, the gang...the pics with Linda did not turn out so am waiting Cristy to send.....but here we have Daniel, Ashley, Marilyn's Bill, Courtney, Megan ,Michael, Amy, Jim, Socie and hidden Marilyn (oops), Cristy and Bill.
Nice shot of the kiddos!!! Dan, Mike in the back and Mega, Courtney and Ashley up front. The girls helped out with serving and dishes and hostiung. Thanks, Amy and Jim, for hosting us all!.
Back to Phoenix in the car with Cristy, Dan and Mike in the back seat....sharing an iPod. Cristy worked to 8 PM the night before and had to be up at 0400 for the Black Friday sale at Target. Apaprently, the Rx drugs went on sale, too..always need a pharmacist at 5 AM...????Being the good manager, she went in to help the store. We stayed over at her house with the boys and drove to Tucson the next day to meet Jamie and BF who were to take the boys to Bill's ex and then head back to San Diego. So....meeting Jamie at Guadalajara Grill, had a nice lunch, met Jamie's BF and turned the boys over....Bill with Marty's kids - Jamie (20), Dan (13) and Mike (16). Nice kids!!

Hurricane Jimena hits San Carlos HARD!

2009-09-08T21:57:00.000-07:00

Tuesday Sept 8, 2009
Hello ALL!

We started a 6 week NW trip but...made it to Colorado when Hurricane Jimena hit San Carlos....so....

Looks like we need to cut our NW trip short after Hurricane Jimena devastated San Carlos, where our boat is. The news didn’t cover it at all…but the town is a mess! Many boats damaged, roads washed away…no water or electric for a few days. All that is starting to be repaired but it will take quite awhile. Supposedly the worst storm in 80 years! There were reported 90 mph winds and 30 inches of rain in a 24 hour period.

We were also fooled by the news reports when the hurricane itself slipped up the west coast of the Baja peninsula. The news showed some small coastal villages damaged and flooded. The weather pictures showed the hurricane heading west, so we did not worry much. Apparently, Mother Nature had her own mind and decided to send some intense tropical winds (understatement) to San Carlos and Guaymas.

We did correspond…some thru cell phones, Ham radios and cruiser networks…with several people concerning our boat. Our marina, Marina Real, west of the city center, was not hit as hard. Our boat is OK. Some of the marina’s dock’s edges were ripped off but we stayed securely fastened to our dock end, near a concrete piling. We have had neighboring boaters check out our interior. We figured there could be some water leakage due to the constant water pounding the top deck for so long. The hatches and ports can only sustain so much water! Sure enough, there was some water that soaked the salon upholstery and floors. At least, it wasn’t too muddy. We are now concerned about mold if we let it sit too long, so decided we better get there within the week. At least, most of the water is still on the outside of the boat!

Good cruiser friends (thank you Cambria and Pegasus...) have already lifted and tried to dry out some of the cushions. We left the boat ready for any storm and had things tied tight and stowed below…including the jib, all canvas, shade-cover bags and so on - anything that might blow away. Seems all our effort in mid-August paid off to the best extent we could in preparing for the worst storm in 80 years. Still, we need to make an effort to clean it up as soon as we can. And perhaps we can lend a hand to others in worse conditions. We have resources, generator, water maker, etc., that can help if still needed. Pictures of our favorite place, Santa Rosalia on the Baja show an even worse mess than San Carlos.

We have questioned whether it is best to leave a boat “on the hard,” in dry storage, or sitting in the water. Our judgement was to leave her in the water at Marina Real. This storm destroyed the downtown marina seca, a dry storage, and sent boats on trailers swimming and about 50 boats badly damaged. Some floated as far as the main street, heading to the ocean! So in this case and where we were, it was best to have her left in the water. We’ll send links to pics, perhaps can download a few from the storm.

We will make an attempt later in the fall to continue the trip north to visit everyone we promised! Have the car packed and layers of clothes ready for cooler weather - but, alas, we must head back home, change cars and cross the border once again. We hope to also take some supplies that might be needed in San Carlos and the surrounding area. Stores are open but supplies are limited. Many lost homes, a few lives lost and much work left to be done.

We have reservations to stay in friend’s casa in San Carlos. (Folkers are currently in Halifax but their San Carlos Bahia home only lost a front fence and was in many after-math pictures!) The electric is on so we’ll have an air conditioner for rest between boat chores. It will be very hot and muggy and moldy and little water for bathing. Apparently, the Mexican workers are working like crazy to get all systems, water and electric, up as fast as they can. They are doing a great job.

We are in Breckenridge, Colorado as we write - finishing up a timeshare week. We’ll cancel or Park City and north trip, heading back home Saturday after visiting cruiser and other friends in Grand Junction. We may have cruiser friends from San Carlos (we offered up our house for cruisers coming up and any going down from Colorado, etc.) already at the house as they button up their boats and head back to the states for some respite from the mess. There are many stories and horrible pictures. Perhaps, we have a better insight into Katrina damage now? At least, more respect for Mother Nature and more wary that ever of impending storms. Here is a link showing pictures of Marina Seca - the hard-hit dry storage area. http://vivasancarlos.com/bulletin/index.html

All our best and details TF...we'll get to the boat about the 17th....Linda and Bill

Take Shape For Life!

2009-08-19T11:35:00.000-07:00

Here we are in Phoenix at the annual Take Shape For Life convention...most of my coaches except Debra who was "stuck" in Germany (aaww...). Great time, lots of new information. What a terrific company to work for - with a goal of keeping people healthy!!!

There were 1250 attendees witha total weight loss of 38,000 pounds!
In case you are curious, can check out my web site for TSFL details at http://www.cardionurse.tsfl.com/

The group shot is Patti of Dallas, Eileen and Nancy form Sierra Vista, Brenda from Florida and me....
Here's the Sierra Vista gang, Nancy, Eileen and me in the middle...

And Brenda and hubby, Ramdin - also an Army Nurse as Patti and I were....

So...here's the Army Nurses....

Nancy and Patti just before the dinner gala...

more grandkid pics

2009-08-19T11:01:00.000-07:00

A few more kid visit shots from here and there.....

Around the yard....

feeding the fish...
swinging

sprinkler time

and spa time

At The Cove....

Grandpa in the water, too!

Bill and Chase in Tombstone..

Yikes! A ghost from the past?

Amber at a bar - ok, so it is ROOT beer!

..after the beer...oops.

Imagine Chase zooming down the wooden sidewalks of Tombstone

At the Desert Museum in Tucson....what a fun (but hot) day! Here's Chase viewing the Underwater Otter display....

...and Amber teasing an otter....

"Look, Chase...it's a prickly cactus...."

"OK, so it really is sharp...."

Amber enjoying our picnic!

Ok, so I guess PBJ wasn't high on his list at the Desert museum?

Amber with Miss Sierra Vista - cool!

At Kartchner Caverns

Summer n Grandkids!

2009-07-24T12:56:00.001-07:00

NOTE: Hi to all...I will add a few pics over the next few weeks - be patient! The Blog was running slow in uploading my pics. Below are actually some of the LAST half of their visit in June and July! In all, Amber and Chase spent almost three weeks with us and a few weeks with Auntie Marty and cousins in San Diego.

Vicky departing back to Dallas...
off on a Cancun anniversary trip!

Arriving from Dallas with Mom Vicky on June 4th, we started off with lunch with Aunt Karen in Tucson then a trip to Kartchner Caverns the same day!

Lunch in Tucson!

***************************************
A few missing here...

************************************************

Goofin' around in the yard!
I love ya to death, bro.....

one, two, three.....down!

A treasure hunt in the yard!!!

Treasure!

On a hike to Ramsay Canyon....deer and turkeys, oh my.

Doesn't he look like a little run-away - just needs a hobo bag and a PBJ!

ahh, tired boy and Grandpa -

Here's Michael...a visit from the San Diego crowd over the 4th of July....

Fish feeding....the Koi are super tame and eat bread right from your hand - rather nibble it off - and with - your fingers. Luckily, no teeth

AAARRRGGH! I pirate pinata!

OK, Chase, now swing at the pinata. Actually - Daniel got it and whopped it good.

Amber collecting the goods:

And now for the July 4th fireworks show in Sierra Vista! A full hour of spectacular fireworks. Pre-show, music and room torun around. I think the kids had a good time!

No rain, Chase - but you never know during the monsoons.....

Here's our crew...Mike and Marty in the chairs and Chase, Dan and Amber on the quilt, awaiting the show.

Happy fouth of July....grandkids and grandpa:

whaaa...?

Happy summer! Happy birthday, USA!

2009-04-04T12:51:00.000-07:00

Just a shot of Tanque de Tiburon!

Home Again....

2009-04-04T08:51:00.000-07:00

Tanque de Tiburon AKA Sharktank #1

The Pattison no-host B&B

We are back in Sierra Vista once again, safe and sound. We'll be here for a few weeks while we do taxes, work a little and catch up on mail and with local friends. Our wonderful housesitters, Steve and Nancy Donaldson, have done a wonderful job caring for the house, the dog, the tortoise and the koi, Thanks, guys. Bob and Donna Pfaff were also here for three months and had to depart back to North Dakota to deal with the flooding. Sorry we missed you two, but will see you next year! Paul left for Colorado this morning. All is well...next boat trip and Blog will be EOM April See ya'll later!! Love to all, Linda and Bill

Sharktank Heads Home...

2009-03-28T21:42:00.000-07:00

We're sad to say, we're on our way...but

we'll be back another day!

With our friend Paul Fox, we departed La Paz March 15th and traveled north in the Sea of Cortez, stopping at Isla Espiritu Santo, San Evaristo, Agua Verde, Los Gatos, Puerto Escondido/Loreto and from San Juanico, we made the jump to San Carlos, a 24 hour trip.

Below are a few (hundred) pics and below that is the trip sail log, not too tedious. Be sure to read it because there will be a test!!! Here's the big picture once again. La Paz is near the tip of the Baja, on the east side where the semi-circular bay is.

Our frist stop was Ensanada Cardonel on Espiritu.

Lovely rocas, a fishing panga and a happpy Captain.
The catamaran party/family boat was near us, having
a family trip with teenagers. Are we having fun yet?

Paul sights La Roca and the seals!

Our first mainland stop is San Evaristo - a little village with a small town, store and a school. They also have a desalination plant and salt ponds. Of course, there is always fishing!

The local store and some of their live products - goats!

Bill and Paul discuss the weather?

The beach and town of San Evaristo.

Note the HUGE motor on the fishing boat!

The school and four children at recess.

Linda and Bill at the salt pond overlook

Pull that anchor up,

Captain!

Let's hit the road.

Paul enjoying a nice sail.

Paul driving...

Sunrise or sunset?

A typical, pretty calm bay

Agua Verde and the gorgeous red rocks. Paul snorkeled - find him in the water....

A tour yacht next to us...and the line in the water is Paul....

Bill on the red rocks...

There's Paul!

OK, get dressed, Paul...

LOBSTER!!!

A local fisherman,Manuel ,

offered to dive for some lobster for us.

He got 6 medium size ones and we

boiled 'em up...lucious with garlic butter.

All we need is the ice sculpture and

the midnight chocolate buffet and we'll be a first

class cruise ship! (nah)

Aw! Toe navigation!!!

or, Auto...Otto? Navigation...?

Yet another Morgan classic!

Anchored in a bay close to us -

we had passed them 'at sea"

and ran

into them in Los Gatos.

Here we are in and around Puerto

Escondido....the road to town via

rental car and theboverlook - note

the bay and our boat are barely

seen over Linda's left shoulder,

the touch of water beyond the hill.

The bay is about a mile square.

From the boat to the dinghy to the dock to ge the rental car....

Our boat anchored to the "ball"...and....

Bill getting the boat tied to the anchor ball...a real bear....

In Loreto...the cruise ship Ryndam

(Holland America) and their cattle

car 'tender" to shore

for the cruise "shippies"....

The panga bay where the cruise shippies are dropped to heads to Loreto.

The great hotel in Loreta with the pool on the roof....as seen thru the glass tiles on the ceiling!

Paul and Bill awaiting the Mexican Show set up for the cruise shippies. Mariachis.

The Loreto golf course and resort - lovely!

A new resort.hotel on the Loreato malecon...nice hotel and bar!

Just a nice hotel courtyard....

The sculted arches over

the roads in Loreto.

Nopolo resort south of town.

Shopping in Loreto....

The Singlar marina in Puerto Escondido (Hidden Port) as we departed early morning:

Dolphins at sea! See the fin?

They are impossible to

capture on film!

Ok, another pretty sunrise or sunset....

Check out the dolphin behind the dinghy!

Finally caught a jump!!!!

Bill pointing to the dolphin...

can just barely see the fin....

Hard work at sea.

Heading into Marina Real,back to home port in San Carlos. The first pic is actually our "home" marina taken from the hill above.

The sunrise just before we arrived.

Can see our famous hills, the Tetakawi's...

translates to, you guessed it, the "teats".

Don't blame me, the local Indians

named the hills....

We arrived, dropped the boat, showered and

went to Guaymas (20 miles south of San Carlos)

to hear Mark Mulligam sing at the

Singlar Marina there.

Paul, Bill and Mark singing.

Ok, one shot of the crew...welcome home!!!

There's a test - read the sail log below! Details about the pics and where here we went....

The Return of the Shark!

Sunday 15 March 2009

We are traveling back north toward San Carlos – and eventually home to Sierra Vista -with friend Paul Fox en tow. Paul arrived to La Paz March 9th and spent a few days enjoying the hotel air conditioning and a real bed before joining us on board. Try as I might, I could not entirely clean out the V-berth for him – so he has a place for his suitcase (he travels light) and bedding but will sleep on one of the sofa. Whoever said Tanque de Tiburon sleeps more than two? Parties 14, sleeps two but the gourmet chef? I am sure Paul can attest to the lavish ice sculptures and five-course meals. At least, some ice, and hot meals?

Departing La Paz on Sunday the 15th, we stopped into Espiritu Santos again and anchored overnight in Ensanada del Cardonel on the northern isle of Partida. Just on queue, we passed a gaggle of dolphin before we entered the bay – must have been 500 of them heading south! It was awesome. The anchorage was calm and with just three other boats. Fine dining included hot dogs for dinner.

Monday- Tuesday 16 – 17 March 2009
Travel: 29 miles

A long day – 0800 to 1800! – We sailed and motored to San Evaristo on the mainland of Baja. Through the San Jose channel, we picked up 15-20 knots so had some decent sailing and actually turned the motor OFF for a few hours and acted like a SAIL boat!! The winds were from the north to northeast, typical for this time of year. Sky is clear, sunny. Once we anchored and settle in, we BBQ’d some beef kabobs, asparagus.

San Evaristo is a quaint little bay with an actual town on the beach– albeit 22 (dirt road) miles from the main Highway, Mexico 1. We awoke to roosters crowing. They have a store and a school. We dinghy’d in, toured the area, dropped off a few donations and walked past the school (the four kids were at recess, playing basketball) and viewed the salt ponds. They also have a water making station on the beach. The store had a pick-up truck of cute goats out front. One of their staples is goat milk and cheese. The notable business in San Evaristo is fishing. The serious fishing boats have huge power engines on the back of the pangas.

Wednesday 18 March 2009

Travel: 24 miles

Happy #28th Adoption Day,

Miss Cristy! Miss you!!

Up very early, we hit the road by 0630 and traveled only until 1230. It was nice to watch the sun rise as we headed from the bay. The trip was uneventful, no surprises and no wind. The goal was Los Gatos, a very nice, wide double bay. Once in, we lowered the dinghy off the davit and headed to shore so Paul could try snorkeling in his new wet suit. The rocks look a lot like Sedona, red rocks and sandstone – plus the tide pools and beach. Later in the afternoon, the large tour vessel, m/v Safari Quest, appeared with an array of kayaks and tenders, sending the guests off in many directions to explore the area.

Thursday 19 March 2009

Travel 19 miles

Another motoring day, we traveled into Agua Verde. Lovely little bay with turquoise waters at the edge, a small village and a fishing camp on the opposite end. We watched a group of 5-6 kayaks enter from the north, landing at the village beach and head toward the tienda (grocery store, of sorts). The m/v Ursa Major, a tugboat type vessel, also pulled in behind us, with several kaaks and guests. We found out later, also on board were Shawn and Heather, authors of our Sea of Cortez Cruise Guide –our “bible”. In all, there were 6 boats in the bay for the night. Four of the other vessels came by (via dinghy or Kayak) our boat to introduce themselves and chat. S/v Wanderlust is another Morgan, like us, and we had passed them at sea and chatted previously. Yet another boat, the last in for the evening, was an old rust bucket in poor repair, pretty trashed with torn sails and seriously rusted sides; the sailors appeared to be an older, gray-haired hippie-style couple. When they anchored, we nicknamed them the "Baja Boat Bums”. However, you never know who or what or why unless you chat! Some stories are interesting. Next time, we will visit them and chat!

Friday 20 March 2009
Travel 22 miles

Weather reports are predicting a big blow/norther/storm for late Sunday through Tuesday. So we decided to get into Puerto Escondido, a known “hurricane hole” or storm reprieve, to sit it out. There is a Singlar marina but no slips – only anchor balls in the bay –

which are difficult to attach!

We started the day from a dead calm, quiet bay, motoring for a few hours. Heading north once again, we approached the Candles channel heading into Puerto Escondido and the wind hit like a banshee! Whee! Whoosh! Jib up, no down, too much wind…more main sail than we needed but too windy to reef…. so Bill turned toward shore to get into to lee of the land so we could drop the main sail and have a little better control of the wind, speed and heel. I admit – I am a sail wimp and do not like to heel over 10-15 degrees as it makes me nervous. I think Paul enjoyed the ride! I bit my nails and prayed – but we saw 35 knots. As we passed through the three ‘candles” (rocks) and turned north into the channel to Puerto Escondido, it was really blowing hard. Bill turned the motor to idle and we almost “surfed” into the port area. It felt good to enter the port and find an anchor ball and get connected.

The downside is the 1/2 mile dinghy ride to the marina area.

Grabbing an anchor ball in PE is quite a challenge, as they do not have floats to help attach the lines. Anchor balls are large round balls attached to a chain to a weight. One must drive up to the ball, reach over the bow of the boat with the fish hook and grab as small hook as the boat is slowing or maybe still drifting. While I drive, Bill reaches for the ball – and Paul was ready to assist. Of course the driver is a bit challenged, unable to really see what is forward and six or so feet below the bow while driving! Once you have the ball, you then must find the line underneath with a loop to attach your lines. Well, we had a temporary attachment on the ball itself, dropped the dinghy in so Bill could float around and correctly attach the bow lines. It only took 3-4 ball searches and attempts to get it done! The PE system has a few problem balls, too. Once in, we collected our port entry paperwork and went to shore to check in. And shower. And arrange a car rental so we could explore Loreto again.

Saturday – Monday 21-23 March 2009

Wheels! We got wheels for the weekend! Yeah! The distance from the bay to Loreto is 18 miles. The taxi is $60 now so we hear. So we rented a car, runs about $35 a day plus insurance. We have insurance through our Mexican insurance for the Blazer and have an additional sub-policy that covers any car we drive in Mexico for liability. So off and running, we helped Paul find one of his geocaches near the marina, up a hill and through the rocks and brambles. I held down the car and the guys hiked, coming back full of scratches and cuts.

Then on to town for more sight-seeing and lunch.

The Holland America cruise ship Ryndam is in port! Whoa, a big ship. So, there were plenty of cruise “shippies” wandering the streets and malecon (aimlessly) or sitting on the beaches. The cattle car tenders were constantly running folks to and from the mother ship. Funny, one can differentiate the shippies and the smaller boat cruisers, like us. Both are wrinkled but for us, it is mostly the clothes and the shippies, well, we won’t go there. I will just say gray hair seemed to be the hair color “del dia”. She set off about 4 PM, heading south and the streets became quiet once again. The prices went down, too.

The weekend weather was very pleasant but the prediction was still for a big wind, so we sat tight. The wind did blow Monday, gusting off and on. Bill gathered the fuel cans and made a run to the dock for fills. We made a trip in for showers and ran into a few friends at the marina dock area – to include Shawn and Heather, the Cruise Guide authors – who are assisting Ursa Major with their guests this week. They had seen us a few bays earlier. But fun to chat about the sea and their book, revisions, and a possible upcoming second edition.

Tuesday - Wednesday 24-27 March, 2009
Travel 39 miles

Due to wind, we spent one more night in Puerto Escondido but headed out early the 25th toward San Juanico. Thirty-nine miles to go to San Juanico! A LONG day at sea, with some wind but we had to motor and used “Otto” (auto pilot) the whole way, passing beautiful scenery up the Baja coast. Bill did most of the driving and navigating, as usual. We departed at 0645 and arrived at dusk, 1945 – a 12-hour cruise. We dropped anchor as the sun set and settled for a quick dinner. Still hoping to travel to Santa Rosalia, we wait for the weather report in the morning.

The last 96 miles!

Wednesday morning and Don’s (the weather Guru from California!) early weather report portrayed a big, big blow due in Friday and Saturday. What to do? Can’t make the run to Santa Rosalia and Punta Chivato is also a long run with potential bad weather en route – and no place to tuck in and wait it out. Therefore – we opted for “let’s just do the crossing NOW while we have the good weather window” mode. We set out about 0930 for the 96-mile (24 hour) run to San Carlos. Great weather, cool but sunny and a few ocean swells; a pleasant day was had by all.

The wind picked up to 10-15 knots and we had the main sail and the jib up; we were finally able to turn the motor OFF and have some peace and quiet. Paul said, “This is the way it is supposed to be!”. He sat on the mat on the foredeck, read, and was on “dolphin watch” patrol. Early in the day, we did have a large school of dolphins play by the boat as we passed. It’s pretty hard to catch a pic of them – much too fast for me! Just awesome to watch them jump in unison – three, four five together – like they are practicing for a Sea World show!!

The wind was from the southeast and the swells pushed us forward, north, so that it felt as if we were surfing north. It was an easy-meals travel day and we projected a night watch schedule so that each would have a 2-hour watch. There was no moon and dark as we headed into the night watches. Not a boat in sight until the shrimper boats passed us n the morning, just as we passed by Guaymas. The night was uneventful, cool with slight wind and we reefed the main sail and had the jib out fully, making a pretty picture as we sailed and motored on to San Carlos through the night.

Marina Real opened at 0800 and Isabel directed us to a temporary slip for a night. It turned out that our old-home slip on Dock 12 was available, so we headed into our old spot on Saturday. Found our car, which was stored at a friend’s (thanks, Tom and Joan) and it started right up! The big wind did arrive, just a few hours after we pulled into the marina and it “blew like stink for many hours. We are very glad we came on over and didn’t try to mess with mother nature. Now for cleaning and prepping for what to take back home and to use up a few food supplies from the freezer. Of course, to sort through clean and dirty clothes and pack some for home. But we did take a few minutes and caught Mark Mulligan at a (windy) concert Friday evening at the Singlar Marina in Guaymas and also had a nice dinner at Pancho Villa’s, near the Guaymas marina/downtown area.

Back to reality, work a little, check on our wonderful house sitters, and see my dog – will he remember me?

Winter in La Paz – the end of year #1! We’ll be back!!!

Marina Palmira and The Boat

2009-03-15T00:48:00.000-07:00

Our new boat! Just kidding. Sitting in a local, abandoned panga on the beach downtown. Hum, we are getting tan, aren't we? Bill's out more than me - and I use a lot of sunscreen...

And this is really our boat, a bow view as we enter a bay on Espiritu Santo....

A view of Marina Palmira from the hill behind the marina. Yes, our mast is in there someplace!

This is NOT our boat but a rather large motor vessel called Silverado,
apparently owned by Hilton. Nice, huh? It was at the end of our dock for a week or so. And no, Paris was not aboard.

By comparison, we look puny but we can handle her. Can see a part of the derelict boat next to us that has been abandoned and now belongs to the marina. beats us why they don't move it. We are just the blue mast and forward jib. Have some nice vessels on our dock this week, two new sailboats that are gorgeous.

And another "hill" view of the marina - we are in the second dock down from the top of the picture. You can see the channel beyond the quay wall, heading into La Paz.

Mark Mulligan in La Paz

2009-03-15T00:33:00.000-07:00

We did it - We got Mark to make a flight to La Paz, sold tickets and ended up with 233 in the crowd at the La Costa seafood restaurant.

Mark with Mac from Venture Forth, with Bill and his poster....

And Mark crammed in the back of the SUV en route from the restaurant to the hotel.....

We love ya, Mark...and hope La Paz can be a frequest stop for your music....

Carnaval!!

2009-03-12T09:22:00.000-07:00

Carnaval La Paz is every February and tied to

Mardi Gras events.

There is a week of festivities, including daily parades, carnival rides, plenty of food and music, music, music. Three HUGE bandstands started up after dark and drew big crowds. Lots of margaritas involved~similar to Halloween for the kids - all in costumes. The cascarones, or eggs filled with confetti, are everywhere. Each night, magic fairies come out and clean the streets for the next day's events.

Even the little ones get into the action!

The floats are pretty amazing, very intricate and participants all having a blast. Floats were sponsored by companies, such as car rentals, beer and grocery stores.

Ride 'em cowboy at the bull on the Malecon. Some of the afternoon events and you can also see one of the three music stages in the background, behind Bill.

Always things for sale for the kids - balloons, hats, cotton candy...note the margarita booth in front of the Burger King!

Bill with his Kettle Corn popcorn, Linda with her margarita.

The normal street along the Malecon, the Abasolo, is closed off for the entire week, making a nice wide walking area, all along the water.

Even time for some quiet times under a palapa on the beach, just next to all the events!!

There are various kings, queens and princesses crowned on on the floats, changing daily. The parades happen daily about 5 PM and start at one end of the center Malecon area one day, then switch the other end of town the next day.

Lots of "stuff" for sale, including blankets...it was about 80 degrees out. Not sure how those sales went!

The Queen of Something.....and the kings of...???

Happy faces at the end of a parade one evening. It was a fun, very noisy week. We actually missed half of the fectivities as we were on our trip to San Jose del Cabo. But still got the feel of the fun and good times had by all.

South toward Cabo San Lucas.....

2009-02-26T23:03:00.000-08:00

On the road to Cabo and beyond.....even the cactus were in a festive Mexican mood!

Viva Mexico!

Why not a nice hammock in the shade? The Las Palmas hotel in Bairelles was lunch stop but looks like a spot to return and hang your hat for a bit.

Guess what? We passed south at the Tropic of Cancer demarkation. Amazing, it was dramatically warmer, balmy....yeah, right! Heading toward San Jose, we found our real destination in San Jose del Cabo, which is a strand of resorts between Old San Jose and Cabo.

Club Regina in San Jose del Cabo.
Note the cell tower on the mountain, disguised as a palm tree, sort of. A beautiful resort built into the cliffs and looking into the rocky/sandy beach. The "endless pools" were fun to sit in and watch the ocean. And they were all heated....!

The white wall is the pool's edge.

A map of the resort built into the mountain, Linda in the lobby and the cart paths they use to shuttle guests.

More Club Regina in San Jose del Cabo .......

....and a few pools....

Several swim-up bars kind of spoil one!

The sea gulls liked the pools, too!

Below is "our beach" area at Club Regina, down below our room....

Onward south to Cabo San Lucas, which was very cruise-ship touristy, crowded (both with people and tight boat spaces!) and expensive. Had a nice lunch and said adios!!

A party catamaran returning with the tourists full of margaritas and sunshine!

OK, we were tourists, too...

Then on to Todos Santos on the Pacific coast....where are those whales....???

NO whales near - very distant spouts! But the huge Pacific waves were pretty awesome! Sat for hours watching the water and sea gulls.

Welcome to the Hotel California! Yes, the Hotel California! Lovely place to stay in Todos Santos, while looking for the elusive whales.

Gorgeous little courtyards with character, very ecclectic. The rooms were very comfortable and updated. A queen room was $125.night. We checked in at 2 PM and they only had 2 rooms left.

Time to go back to the boat, men!!!

Wedding at Marina Palmira

2009-02-21T23:01:00.001-08:00

Pattison's Attend Local Wedding!

A wedding at the Perico Loco Cantina! We decided to crash the wedding because they were in OUR bar on OUR dock where I do MY Yoga and stretching classes when we are at the marina....so here's Linda at our special table while the reception is held just behind us...

OK, not really. The hotel was doing a photo shoot/promotion for weddings or perhaps for the next edition of Mexican Bride magazine. One of the marina guards - the only one who can actually pick Lucy the Goose up, decided to add Lucy to the photo shoot. One of the model brides was very polite as she tried to pet Lucy, making some interesting shots!

They even had fake cake, flowers and a banquet set by the pool! Two brides and a wedding party - but no attendees...except the Pattison's and a few other bar flies.

Eats and drinks in and around La Paz....

2009-02-12T23:21:00.000-08:00

La Costa for seafood...and where we are
planning a Mark Mulligan concert Feb 27th!
There's Bill in the yellow, Sue and Alex and Mac and Carole ...

Bill caught earlier cleanning a fish on board..it was a dog snapper and very good!

Some arrachera tacos at Super Burro
and Bill awaiting our order there.

Linda at our dock bar, Perico Loco...hoisting a cold one after a long sail when we arrived:

Whoa! Ana and Carla at Bismark's for

very large Margarita's!

Some local packaged filet's

from the mercado...

Bill and Linda departing Ciao Molina's:

Shopping!

2009-02-12T22:49:00.001-08:00

Bill at one of the artisan's shops and some of the Ibarra pottery made in La Paz.....

So many

shoes and none I could or would ever wear....

And Bill buying ice and beer at our marina tienda ......

The local weaver's wares...

The Boat in and out....

2009-02-09T16:54:00.000-08:00

Bill having lunch at sea in the cockpit.

One of the bookshelves aboard, above a couch...and the couch and another shelve....

The nav station - work station, etc

Bill relaxing forward at an anchorage....

a dinner at sea.....BBQ'd!

Bill relaxing at an anchorage....(doesn't do often enough)

Bill coming from the master cabin to the salon, passing the nav station

A few have asked about interior pics of the boat. So you want to see how we live? It's like an RV, basically, with compact spaces. We can host a party of 12 and sleep two....well, four if I cleared the pantry/V-berth....

Ensenada de La Raza and Grande

2009-02-09T16:15:00.000-08:00

Tanque de Tiburon at anchor ....
From the anchored boat in Ensenada de La Raza

A full moon at anchor!

And some lovely geographic features of the

bay walls.

Bill relaxing after dropping anchor

in Ensenada Grande - what a view!!!

That is El Gallo, a small Sea Lion Isla

out from the cove.

Yet another lovely beach with a boat at anchor just to the left - this shot taken

from our boat.

Return to Espiritu Santo Island !

As noted previously, we already visited Espiritu Santo several times before - en route to La Paz, we stayed overnight at Calleta Partida, the bay between the north island of Partida and the south larger island of Espiritu. When Barb and Randy visited, we visited the southern coves of San Gabriel and Bonanza. So far, we have only been able to dinghy in and walk the beach at Bonanza, a two-mile white sand beach full of shells! I am starting my collection of shells and specializing in painting mermaids on them. Bill is groaning.

4 - 5 Feb 2008
We decided it is time to get away from the dock for a few days, set some sails and head north, find some new coves and explore some islands. Leaving at 1000, the first day took us once again through the La Paz channel north, passing several coves we have visited before - Calleta Lobos and Balandra. Finding a little wind, we put the main sail up and caught a couple of knots of wind as well as motored, averaging 4-5 knots. Pretty day, sunny and a very pleasant breeze cooled us. I even had a few goose bumps!
Just as we passed the last inlet, we hear our San Carlos buddies on s/v Seabourn on the radio! Calling them up, we found they were finally headed into La Paz and we would actually pass them mid-channel. Binoculars out, we watched for each other. Ron and Beryl intended to depart with us in November but due to boat problems, found they needed to stay longer in San Carlos. So they were anxious to get south and we were anxious to see them again. Now we are heading away from La Paz as they arrive, boo hoo. They sound tired and needing a good restaurant. So suspect they may need a few days R&R and then will be ready for some “docktails”. So we did finally see them and Bill does a 180 to travel by them for a few minutes and shout and wave hello…then off they went and we turned back toward ES.

####################

Passing San Gabriel, we opted to go a little further to Ensanada de La Raza, a cove amongst three coves with two small islands out front (La Gallina, the hen, and El Gallo, the rooster), arriving at 1600. Anchoring easily (we are getting good at it, needing only one drop lately!), we note just one other boat anchored with us - no one we recognize. Soon, we are joined by a third boat, s/v Morning Calm III, a gorgeous, larger sailboat we have seen in our marina. Oops, they had a little trouble dropping their anchor - a mate having to climb out over the anchor line and kick it out with his foot….owch. There are also a few tour boats traveling through the coves.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

The sunsets are fabulous - but no green flashes as we see the sun set over the Baja mainland…so not on water! Although, I swear I do see an occasional green flash. Setting our deck chairs forward, grabbing a book, sunset snack and a cold beer, we settled in to watch the daily happening and "ooh and ah". The geologic formations are also a sight to enjoy and again, we are sitting inside a cove surrounded by rock formations to amaze anyone. If you filled the Grand Canyon with water, it might look like the Sea of Cortez.
To bed early, sort of, and up early, not really, we enjoyed a gentle rocking through the night, checking our anchor occasionally. Had a nice moon with a ring up the first night!

%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%

FOOD: Meals are simpler at sea and, luckily, Bill doesn’t mind. Oatmeal or PBJ on toast or eggs or a Medifast shake make breakfast; lunch is cheese and crackers, fruit or an avocado or a PBJ (unless we had it for breakfast!), Medifast soup or a protein bar. Dinners are chili, pasta or a stir-fry rice and frozen or fresh veggies when available and BBQ chicken, beef or fish. We try to plan dinner before dark when we can, so we can relax and enjoy the rest of the evening. Sometimes we have a later breakfast, skip lunch (perhaps a protein bar or shake) and have diner at 4 or 5. We had purchased a kilo of local, marinated arrachera meat to grill, lasting several meals. Yummy stuff! My favorite snack treat when I need a “rush” of chocolate is Nutella, chocolate hazelnut butter. To die for! (But I do ration it due to the calories). I also keep a stash of caramel vanilla suckers, about 20 calories each and good for a sweet-tooth fix, too. Bill doesn’t do sweets, so that’s easy! No cookies, pastries, cakes, puddings, ice cream and very few chips. Our favorite snack is popcorn. Thanks to Barb, I now have Molly McButter, too - thanks, Barb!

)))))))))))))))))))))))

Mr. Dinghy, Sharktank went in the water on day #2. Always a pleasure to start the little motor (NOT!), Bill finds new words to coax the dang thing to start. We actually wanted to head to the beach and do some shelling, but the shoal area was huge and very shallow. We traveled as far as we could toward the beach without dragging bottom. We probably could have walked in, dragging the dinghy for a long hike in 1-2 feet of water (and unknown sandy bottom), but opted for an abbreviated dinghy boat tour of the rocks, El Gallo and back around. The water is clear and the shallow areas sandy, grassy and a few rocks, fish and birds.
Once back to the boat, we were approached by our boat neighbors in their dinghy, a couple from Colorado on the s/v Blue Chip. They had been snorkeling - in wet suits! The water is about 68 degrees, too cold for me to stay in long! They are heading back north, back to San Carlos but taking their time.
Day is done, gone the sun…off to read, listen to Sirius Sinatra and the news. Testing the batteries, we did watch a short movie!

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

6-7 February 2008

Pulling up anchor and motoring out of bay about 1000 again, we headed north, passing Partida. There appeared to be 5-6 boats at anchor in Partida - a major stopping point when folks travel south, from the Baja mainland, out to the island then south to La Paz. The destination on the GPS is waypoint #180 that Bill put in the computer. We have a nice program, reading a continuous chart as we go. We took turns motoring - no wind in sight! No sails today! Passing panga fishermen, some sailboats coming and going and a few power monsters, too, we just toodled north and enjoyed the day.

OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
We pulled into Ensanada Grande about 1230. The water was extremely calm, very turquoise, several nice beaches and only one other boat in the three-bay area. Dropping the anchor at 20 feet, it settled in nicely the first drop and we watched for a few minutes before turning off the motor, to make sure the anchor held. It holds, so off with the engine and back to peace and quiet. After a short lunch, Bill dropped the dinghy to the water from its davit mount and mounted the (*&!!#$%@!) motor aft. As soon as we were ready to take a tour, hit the beach and explore - Bingo! - the wind started blowing like stink - instantly! Weird weather! We noted gusts from 10-20 knots for several hours. After dark, the wind died to nothing for a few hours but picked up during the night again. So no boat tour and we’ll head in early tomorrow! The seagulls are begging - and I did share some crackers with them. One decided sitting on the dinghy was a fun ride.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Staying two nights in Ensanada Grande, both rolly with the Cormuel winds, we didn’t sleep well but it was pretty - a full moon and the swells rolling in under the moonlight. Bill discovered the second night that if he actually held on to the steering wheel, he could control the way the boat hit the swells, making us not quite so rolly. Luckily, we were faced into the swells, hitting our bow and making the stern "smack" into the water, so we just bobbed forward/backward versus side-to-side (the rolls that make one sea sick, usually). The anchor held tight. We are joined by six other boats for the night…. including several power boats from our dock and two more sailboats.

"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""

We did have a wind break on Saturday afternoon and able to get out in the dinghy and take a tour to one of the beaches. The tide was heading out, so we pulled in as far as we could toward the beach, - until the motor hit bottom! - dropped a small anchor and waded the rest of the way in. Nice sandy bottom, not too many shells and very clear water. In the shallow water, the temperature was probably 85 degrees and felt very nice. I could probably have snorkeled easily. The water was so clear and shallow, we walked the shore and able to see lots of smaller coral heads, tiny fish and several bright blue ‘skinny” star fish.

\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\

We departed Ensenada Grande Sunday morning to head back to the marina. The weather report noted a norther would hit Monday or Tuesday and we did not want to be caught in higher winds than we were comfortable with. We did find some wind, though!!! It ranged from 5-15 knots all day! We had both the main and the job up and made an average of 4-5 knots, sailing all the way back, from 10 AM to 5 PM. It was sunny, breezy and a very pleasant day “out to sea”. We only saw one sea lion acting odd - flipping up and about as he passed us.

Arriving back to the marina, we found s/v Seabourn and they invited us over for a cold one - and we did. Had a shower and dinner at the marina restaurant, La Panga.

###########################################

Out to sea, again!

2009-02-03T08:15:00.000-08:00

We hope to head up to Espiritu Santo today. Bill is prepping top deck, rigging and such. I am stowing crash-ables below. We may be out of touch for a week, depending on my BlackBerry, of course! But hoping to find some quiet beaches, nice anchorages and explore a little. Ya'll take care, now. Hasta Tarde!
Linda and Bill

El Malecon

2009-02-02T23:00:00.000-08:00

February 2 is a special day for us - the Army Nurse Corps birthday, Groundhog's Day (is it still winter?) and "I love you" day for us. I love you, Bill!

The Malecon in La Paz

The Malecon (mah- lay-cone) AKA the "boardwalk" along La Paz....It goes for 5-6 miles! It's concrete and/or tiled, about 12 feet wide, lit at night and all along the water's edge. A very delightful place to walk. Our marina to town center is about 4000 steps from our marina, Marina Palmira, according to my pedometer!

The statues add a bit of whimsy to the stroll, from mermaids, to fishermen to sailors. The sailor above seems to looking to sea from his silly boat.

Part of the malecon in town is along a beach, complete with with palapas for shade. Note the tour bi-plane that seats one passenger at a time and departs from the water. $60 for a half hour tour, we hear.

The fisherman - with metal net!

One of my favorite mermaids! From the center of town looking out at the bay.

And yet another favorite mermaid!!

..and another!

Barb and Randy arrrive!

2009-01-24T17:29:00.000-08:00

Here we are, downtown La Paz on an evening stroll! And yet another sunset from the boat at anchor in a cove, looking over the dinghy on the davit...

Hello - and, wow - January is flying by!

Bill's new plane (just kidding -it's a little harbor tour plane).
Linda's newest Palapa hat (thanks for the idea, Ana!).
Last week we had to bite the old bullet and shop for a new computer. The old one had old power, no storage and just was wearing out. We spent a day between 4-5 stores (Office Max, Home Depot, City Club, Soriano's and the Dorian's department store) checking options. We ended up with a machine with a lot of power but, it turns out, only spoke spanish. Not to worry, we are learning spanish......... seriously, we did spend a week with spanish and the keyboard is still spanish but we were able to change the key programs over....all is good and fast. The only problem is the wifi connection at the marina.

Prepping for on board guests is interesting! With very little spare space and the v-berth used for storage, finding a place for bags, boxes, art supplies, brief cases, etc is interesting. So the obvious storage place to move things prior guests on board is the master head cabin bathtub! Still unable to move everything out (heavier spare sails, food bins, bosun's chair and snorkel gear), we did leave a space for upcoming company to at least set their bags and change clothes - and stow their bedding during the day. And the guest head has a new faucet and is clean!

Barb and Randy Arrive!!

Here we are eating again, dinner at Buffalo BBQ!

1/18/2009 SUNDAY: We have had the pleasure of a great week with old friends, Well, not OLD friends, old FRIENDS! Barb and Randy arrived from Texas on January 18th for a few days of La Paz fun, sun and sailing. We borrowed car from Ana and Steve (thanks, guys!) and made a fun airport run. After check in at the hotel and a brief boat tour, we headed back to the city center and returned the car. We walked to Rancho Viejo for some wonderful arracharra, the BBQ beef we have grown to love so well. Walking further down the malecon after dinner, we caught a cab and returned to the marina and the hotel and headed to bed. A long day for all.

Here's Randy making a wish on a magic seashell, and walking the malecon.....my favorite mermaid statue!

1/19/2009 MONDAY: Happy Birthday, Lon! Yes I did remember!! We breakfasted at the Dinghy Dock on our dock, shuttled to town and walked a bit, finding thr Ibarra pottery factory and then ther grocery store (the cow store) for last-minute fresh provisions for the short sailing trip. Back to stow provisions and shower, we taxied to meet a group at La Fonda for some wonderful (and cheap) real Mexican food. Yum. I had the special enchiladas and Bill had his favorite garlic grilled fish...which tends to hang on for a few days. Once again, knew I should have ordered it, too! Then of course, we made the trek to the famous polka dot tree for ice cream. First time I had, I did get sick...but it's been 6 weeks, so decided to try the pistachio. Again, yum. None for Bill. Then a walk back down the malecon.

1/20/2009 TUESDAY: Ok, no more ice cream. Got sick again. Must be the butter fat? But after a rest, we dicided I was OK to go to sea. So we packed ourselves up, stowed the things that fall off shelves and gathered Barb and Randy and backed out of the slip to head north to somewhere. Passing Rocas Lobos ansd Bahia Balandra, we crossed the channel north of La Paz to the island of Espiritu Santo. Of course, not much wind and we had to motor the entire few days we were out. But did set the sails a few times just for "show". Many fish and birds crossed our path but no big sea monsters, or even dolphins, rays or whales. Just birds...many Friagtes, we finally figured out. (They looks like prehistoric pterydactyls' to me). We anchored in Bahia San Gabriel, a very nice bay on the southwest corner of ES. It was slightly roly throughout the night but we did fine. Bill BBQ'd checkin in foil for dinner and we ate in the cockpit. The only other boat at anchorage was a power boat and it appeared the lady of the ship was swimming aft, naked. Isn't that why we have binoculors? Too funny. I believe Randy and Barb tossed and turned a bit, sleeping in the salon - but made it through the first night out.

Feeling not so queezy, Randy takes a turn at the wheel while Barb watchs for whales or birds. Both enjoying the cockpit ride.

1/21/2009 WEDNESDAY: This was mom and dad's anniversary date - they were married in 1945. Happy anniversay! After a healthy oatmeal breakfast, the four of us decided to make the south channel east to the other side of the island and made it to Bahia Bonanza in just a few nice hours. We did spot some jumping rays at a distance and some other boats out and about, sails, power and pangas out fishing.

As you can see, blue skies, no wind and the sails aren't up!

It was pretty windy when we tried to anchor and after two drops, we found a sweet spot and hooked in. Soon after we stopped, the wind died and we had a pleasant sunset, a nice evening.

Bill dropped the dinghy and we made a trip to shore, swearing at the motor all the way. That Tanaka has got to go! Need a Honda. Randy and Barb elected to man the boat while we went to shore. I found some delightful shells on the very long, white, sandy beach - extremely pretty! The water felt about 80 degrees on the shore...very pleasant to wade through.

The little dinghy ashore with Tanque de Tiburon anchored out.

I made us a spaghetti dinner, complete with wine. The galley being a mess after creating a dinner, I cleaned up soon after we ate and we headed to bed early. Oh, the plankton was phosphorescing again and we had a short showing of that - complete with Linda spitting into the water to enhance the effect. Hey, it works. The head flushing Bill tried wasn't near as effective! We had a quiet and calm night, few rolly's and good weather. Could even see the lights of La Paz over the north of the peninsula to the south of us.

1/22/2009 THURSDAY: Departing at about 10 AM for La Paz, we motored out of our great anchorage after a superb sunrise. I think Bill, Randy and Barb slept throguh it! AAHH, but I have pictures! Once again creating camp coffee in the perculator on the propane stove, we had scrambled eggs for breakfast and put things away for a day of motoring with sails. Retracing our steps back through the channel and south to La Paz, we arrived mid-afternoon into our slip. Bill calls the marina office for deck hands and low and behold, they did arrive today. It was sunny, with a few clouds and a nice day to be out. We showered and caught a taxi to our favorite place, Buffalo BBQ (see picture abouve) for ribs! Yum.

1/23/2009 FRIDAY: Meeting Barb and Randy at the Dinghy Dock restaurant patio for breakfast, Lucy the goose joined us. She actually approached the table and begs for food! But we cannot feed her at the table, pig that she is. Everyone seemed tired so returned to quarters for a mid-morning nap. Bill and I re-stocked the cooler with ice, drinks and beer and did some cleaning up. About 2 PM, we all headed to town, via taxi, to find La Costa (see picture of Barb, Randy and Linda) , the beach-side seafood restaurant. The favorite there was the whole-fried snapper...deep fried and succulent. After lunch, we walked to the Banditos Bar for a supposed beach party sponsored by the American's Club Cruceros. They were BBQ'ing burgers in their old-car grill. Not much Buffett or Beach Boys music, so we didn't stay long. Walking to town, we cruised the Malecon for a few blocks, had some more ice cream (I tried fresh peach gelato this time and did not get sick). Back to the cockpit for a nightcap and Barb and Randy headed to bed early.

Our boat neighbors, a locally-owned large power boat was hosting a big party and had music until after 10...but they came by and chatted with Bill a few minutes, too. Nice folks. The La Panga restaurant hosted a bash that lasted until 5 AM! We could here the beat most of the night - 5 docks away.

1/24/2009 SATURDAY: Fly day for Barb and Randy! We had a breakfast at La Panga, a walk north on the Malecon and saw them off at 12. Nice week - thanks guys!!!

January! We're Baa-aack!

2009-01-17T22:57:00.000-08:00

Wow, time flies when you're having rum! January is flying by and our guests, Barb and Randy arrive from Texas manana for a week. We are excited to finally have some company. Now we can be the experienced ones and show someone else around! (Or rather, they can get lost along with us!)

The routine of living aboard in a marina is starting to settle in. We have had boat projects, trips to get groceries, tour the hardware stores for "guy stuff" and had dinner with friends. Bill has waxed the boat and finished oiling the teak. I have cleaned in and out, then started all over again. I started helping teach a daily Yoga/stretching class this past week and attended several ladies luncheons, including the "Sisters Aquiring Sailing Skills". Bill had the dinghy motor worked on. Danny the sail-maker has been back and forth measuring and creating the new sail cover. We had the boat bottom cleaned by local divers who do that for a living - in wet suits! And then there's galley work and laundry, a chore in itself that I put off until there is three or four loads....

Last weekend, there was a big storm predicted, a "norther". Come Saturday, the wind did pick up and blew for 24 hours, gusting to 25 knots. The marina actually closed the port - no one can go in or out. We watched the boats (at high tide) out at anchor in the open bay rocking and rolling. It did not look fun - and glad to be in a slip, in a marina, safe and snug.

$$$$$ A Five Star Week for Boat Sheckle Spending! This week's big projects for Bill were plumbing - the galley faucet died and forward head handle had a major leak. Hence, the hardware store visits. He cursed and pushed, pulled and stood on his head getting first the old faucet off then a new one in place. It now looks very pretty, all new and shiny and clean! Thanks, Bill. The next boat purchase had to be the new lap top - again, we had to have a working machine and the old lap top is almost dead. Yesterday was comparison shopping between Office Depot, Office Max, the department store and City Club, similar to CostCo - where we did buy one. We still had antenna problems so the computer guy, Trevor, spent this afternoon with Bill.

Now that we are up and running again - and faster, we should be able to add a few more oics and details for the blog! The prior trip is just below.

North to the Coves

2009-01-17T21:10:00.000-08:00

We had another short sail, of sorts, a few weeks ago.

On January 2, we headed north to explore several coves on the north shore of the La Paz penninsula (see map below) before the next "norther" blew through.
Departing at a reasonable hour, he cruised out of the marina about 9 AM. Because we had been sitting for almost a month, it took a bit longer to prep for sea. Getting the steering wheel back on is always a good thing (yes, we have started to back out, engine running and -oops! - the steering wheel was still attached to the side of the dodger....that's always embarrassing....) But also remembering to stow things that might go flying on a heel, like the booze bottles, shampoo in the shower and books. Oh, and pulling the life jackets out!

Heading north, it takes about 40 minutes to actually clear the harbor area, passing the Costa Baja marina and the Pemex plant, winding through the channel first north, then west then hook a right back north. Once out in the larger bay, we put the boat into the wind and Bill put the main sail and the jib up, hopeful to catch some wind. Not much wind! We did try and peaked at about 3 knots off and on, trying to tack and catch what little wind there was. So we enjoyed the ride, watched other boats, the Baja Ferry and the shore. Beautiful weather, sunny and a nice breeze. The day's motor sail was about seven hours total.

By the way, we have also determined we are able to predict the winds very well...IF we want to sail and put the sails up, guaranteed the wind will die out! And if we want to anchor in a bay and have a pleasant night, also guaranteed the wind will gust to 30 knots and rock us all night. Go figure.

So motoring with the sails up, we headed for Caleta Lobos for a drive through tour on our way to the night's destination at Balandra Bay. Out from the inlet called Caleta Lobos is a small rock formation called Roka Lobos. Lobos are what the Mexicans call the Sea Lions! Roka Lobos is supposedly full of Sea Lions and we could hear them barking but hard to see them, even with binoculors. We could not get very close due to the reef around their rock. We were able to pass between the rock and the inlet and noticed two boats anchored in the bay. Heading north for a few more miles, we passed shrimp boats and a protected area that was marked off - perhaps shrimp farms.

Around the bend, we arrived into Balandra Bay - and ready to find a protected anchorage. Of course, the bay faces northwest and as soon as we entered the bay, the wind kicked up and made finding a spot and settling the anchor a little trickier. But we only made one circle to get it right. I drive and Bill drops the anchor. We are getting pretty good at it - don't miss too many! Before we shut the motor off, another larger sailing yacht entered the bay, anchored fairly near us, jumped in a towed dinghy and headed to shore. After off-loading a family, the dinghy came by our boat with a young french-accented crewman. He was whining about the guests on board "his" boat, trying to tell him, an experienced captain, how to anchor. We kind of wondered if he was just planning on leaving them ashore. Nah, we went back later and picked them up. Apparently, the guests were friends of the owner.

Balandra is a double-scooped bay with a very pretty beach and rock outcroppings. There is a rock formation there that the Mexican's call "La Fonga" as it is shaped like a mushroom. There is a replica of it in the a Paz town square. There were people on the beach, some swimming (in 77 degree water). Meanwhile, we were watching - and feeling - the wind pick up, the boat rocking and Bill thought the anchor was slipping. So we pulled up the anchor and moved. Pretty soon, the other boat also moved - all the way to the other side of the bay and tucked into a better-protected area near yet another sailboat. We settled in for a rocky-rolly dinner and watched the sunset. Once again, we decided to pull the anchor and move across the bay, too. But still not totally away from the wind and the "rolls", we had a rough night. Afraid the anchor would slip, we were both on edge, up and down, watching landmarks (rocky shore, lit marker and the other boats) . Come sunrise, we were tired and ready to move on. We saw a huge school of 2-3 foot rays jumpinmg near the reef marker. Too far away to get a decent picture but a pretty awesome sight!!! After coffee and oatmeal, we pulled the anchor, backed out away from a reef marker and headed to sea with plenty of wind!

Once out to sea again, Bill decided to set the sails. As soon as he did - voila! - no wind! What is up with that? We rock all night and when we want a little wind, none. Motoring for awhile with sails up (ok, they look cool up!), we continued north and around the tip of the peninsula to take a look at Tecolote Bay, an inhabited beach with restaurants, homes and palapas. Actually, it looks like a fun place to picnic! Making a loop back around, we turned back to head toward Caleta Lobos for another night's anchorage.

Approaching Caleta Lobos from the bay's center way point Bill had placed in the GPS, we headed straught into the bay and settled in a nice big cove all by ourselves. Only one other boat off into ther other side inlet was visible. What a pretty bay, protected from the north winds and calm. Several mangrove areas, shoals and beaches surround the bay. We arrived about 4 PM, so enjoyed just sitting and watching. Another Baja Ferry cruised by out in the Sea.

I did notice a lonesome and empty yet anchored and not moving dinghy or panga in the distance, between the mainland and a small out-cropping of rocks. It seemed odd all by itself. Soon, we noticed that someone was now in the little boat and rowing in our direction. Uh-oh. As he approached closer, I feared the older gentleman was naked. Nope, had trunks on. And a fish bucket. No motor. He pulled along side and introduced himself as Reno from the other anchored boat, Star. He had been spear fishing and offered us a fish! He single-hands his boat, a 35+ footer. We gladly accepted the Dog Snapper , Bill cleaned and boned it and we grilled it, adding it to our dinner fare. It was delish!

After dinner, we again saw Reno rowing toward our boat; he came to invite us for fresh, homemade ceviche he was "marinating" from his recent catch. So we set a time. Bill had taken our dinghy off the davit and placed the motor on. So come dusk and ready to chug over to Star, we climbed in the little Sharktank, along with some leftover rice and chicken to leave with Reno. And several cold beers as he had mentioned not having a refrigerator. Of course, the famous motor is still acting up and took many pulls to get it started, but we made it over for our treat. Climbing aboard Reno's boat was tricky, up over the transom. An older boat with no amenities per se, he seems a happy camper just going from bay to bay, fishing, reading and rock collecting. He mentioned he was heading to town in a few days so as to pick up his wife who was arriving back on the boat from the states. An interesting character, for sure.

We slept well, slight rocking putting us to sleep. Not up early, we had a liesurely breakfast and pulled up anchor about 10 AM and headed back to the marina...about a 6 hour trip, wind dependant. Once again, some wind as we went into the sea and as soon as the sails were up, none to speak of. We tried tacking to catch a little wind and almost ran in front of a larger power boat. I guess we need to check the rearview mirror more often? Seriously, he was a long way off but was a surprise. We enjoyed the slow ride back, the weather and the views. Lots of boats heading north, perhaps to the islands or across the "pond" to Mazatlan, the most common migration for cruisers after the holidays in La Paz.

So back to the slip, the marina grind and more chores!

2009-01-01T23:59:00.000-08:00

Note to all! We are adding pictures as we can, many throughout the Blog as they relate to a prior date. So scroll through the Blog for new pics!

2009-01-01T22:59:00.000-08:00

Christmas Dinner at Tres Virgens

Happy New Year!

Here's a few "past"pics for catch-up:

New friends, Doug and Carla, Steve and Ana
at the Marina de La Paz Christmas potluck....
Or is it the Rockets?

Our arrival to Marina Palmira, La Paz, December 5, 2008

Eating out yet again, somewhere....

2009-01-01T20:16:00.000-08:00

Heading out again tomorrow.............SAILS UP!!!

Prospero Nuevo Ano de La Paz!

New Year's eve in La Paz is a very big deal! We walked to town earlier in the day, in search of a marine store and lunch. Many restaurants were prepping for the late night parties. Many cars scurrying about, shops and schools were closing early. We did find a nice lunch on the patio at El Patron and watched the water taxis ferry people to the Mogote, a peninsula across from La Paz. The bay area is also an achorage for many sailboats. Several boat folks came ashore via dinghy as we ate - bringing trash bags, laundry or taking provisions and water back out to their boats. An interesting life we lead! I think I like the slip and to be able to walk off the doc, but it costs for services - water, electric and trash. Those at anchor are usually sitting 'free" in most places.

As it was getting late and we needed to get back to prep for the evening festivities, we caught a very nice taxi/van and got back to the dock in five minutes for $5. I can now ask the driver to take us into the first entrance to our marina and save a few steps - "La primera entrada, por favor, cerca de los Condos y el Dinghy Dock Restaurante....".

For the party, hosted by Ana and Steve, we were to bring an appetizer, drinks and a White Elephant Gift to exchange. Who has white elephants on a boat? Most of the 20 guests were boaters with the same challenge. I created a Christmas Decor basket - and packet up some items I can replace next year!! And a few DVD's we had seen. I had also been marinating some fresh pineapple and cherries in some home-brew tequila - bacanero? - pretty strong concoction but taasty. A fun evening, some played games, some beer, good food and lots of boat talk. All evening and expanding at midnight was local fireworks, gun shots and shouting all over the city. Their home is fairly central and we could watch fireworks all around us. We stayed over due to the activity and difficulty getting a taxi at that late hour. Got to sleep in a bed on dry land - whee! We slept in a little this morning, had coffee on their patio and stopped for a great breakfast before coming back to the boat.

Our first cockpit "docktails" was also with Ana and Steve a few days ago. Bill decided to try our drill/blender. We had it all set-up and pre-tested to do a mango margarita. I filled it up and screwed the bottom on, handed it up the hatch to Bill who plugged in the drill and turned it on. The dang thing exploded! The bottom was not on tight. Bill was covered in Mango mess, as was the cockpit. Luckily, it missed Ana and Steve! After we finished our appetizers, we went up to the Dinghy Dock restaurant for some wonderful Xochitl soup, $4 for a large bowl of chicken, rice ands spices.

The weather is here - still! After last weekends cool "blow" and "sway" as we danced in the slip, it warmed up this week but still cooler in the evening. Very pleasant. Today was very overcast but never felt like it would rain. This afternoon, we sat and read for a bit on our deck chairs up on the forward deck, overlooking the dock. It's like sitting on the front porch. Bill also set the GPS way points in prep for our trip. With newly-treated wood, the dinghy motor running better (thanks, Bill) and the bottom cleaned, we are ready to head out again for a few days.

We hope to head up north tomorrow for the weekend...about 15 miles way is Bahia Balandra, with a few anchorages and nice beaches. So next Blog report should hopefull have a 'sail" report...

22-28 December 2008

2008-12-29T14:31:00.000-08:00

La Paz Navidad 2008

Happy Holidays from Baja California Sud en La Paz! We are still sitting in our slip on Dock #5 and enjoying the weather, exploring La Paz and a few holiday festivities. The Malecon lights on the palm trees and Christmas festivities around town have made it delightful. We found a local concert on the cathedral steps last Monday evening and enjoyed the music school's traditional Christmas celebration, including a Nativity enactment by the teens. We sat on the square and watched as we ate our street burritos.

We have walked and walked and walked, trying to burn off a few calories and stay in shape and enjoy the "ambiance". Many of the stores have special Christmas toy sections, the same as the states. It's fun to watch the kids get excited over all the new toys. One thing we have noticed in Mexico is that in all of the Nativity scenes set-up, before Christmas there is no baby Jesus. And he appears on Christmas morning!

The scene set up at the Govenor's Palace includes elephants and pigs - along with the usual cows and donkeys.

On Christmas Eve, we taxi'd to the other marina for the annual potluck/picnic. Lots of folks there - the boaters and the landlubbers. There was a nice variety of potluck foods, from fresh caught tuna to brownies. I made a rice dish/salad and took some of my cowboy cookies.

Then we walked to Ana and Steve's and ended up staying all evening, playing games and eating Christmas tamales. We walked back along the Malecon after midnight and watched and listened to fireworks and, perhaps, guns - and recieved some Feliz Navidad hugs from some local folks. It was an hour walk but pleasant. The side gates to our marina and hotel were closed and we had to walk a bit further to slip throught the main gate. My feet were tired!!

FOOD!

We have had several very wonderfu; meals this week! On Christmas, we went to Tres Virgins with two other couples from the dock - we were invited by Milagro, Jo and Lance, who were friends of Earl and Maria's. I ordered a "traditional American turkey" dinner. It was more gourmet then traditional and served very elegantly. A very nice setting out on a patio area in what used to be the Governor's mansion - apparently they had just moved there from another location. Nice dinner and nice people.

For our Fifth anniversary on the 27th, we went back to Buffalo BBQ as Bill was needing some more ribs. They cook them on an open mesquite grill and the smells are just wonderful. Also seated on a patio area, we enjoyed the cooler weather and actually wore sweaters and windbreaker! And was glad to have it for the walk back.

Chores!

Last Friday was a work day for both of us. I did five loads of laundry - no easy task hauling the bundles to the marina laundromat. Bill waxed and polished the boat. he borrowed a soft dinghy and was able to scoot around the boat. The wood is all oiled and looks great - but will give it another coat. Saturday we hitched a ride to town and Bill bought two more boat batteries and replaced them. I never realized just how heavy those things are! Solid lead. So hauling the old ones up the ramp at low tide was an interesting task. And in and out of the boat, steps, ladder, etc...Bill earned his brownie points, as usual. Today, he replaced the fuel cans on the newly painted rails and took a can down to get gas. And, he made the ice run. I made the bed, breakfast, lunch, dishes, cleaned a head and the steps, oiled my dishrack and changed the CD's as Sirius is acting up again. Now, off for a walk before shower, dinner and dark. Maybe we will watch a movie tonight?

I will try again to add a few pics but the blog is being stubborn at accepting them today. Cross your fingers.

All is good! Have New Year's party invitation and then we may head out to an island or two for a few days or so.

~ Nurseshark and Tanker6

2008-12-22T15:37:00.000-08:00

Gosh, it looks like our Marina Palmira free shuttle might need a transplant? That's the La Panga restaurant behind the diagnosticians....

Here's Sharktank, our little dinghy, on a side trip off the big boat.

Our Christmas mast in the salon!

Here is a pescadero camp on an island we anchored overnight. The local fishermen often will camp out in groups overnight while out fishing. Sometimes there will be several pangas (their fishing boats) at a camp overnight.

2008-12-22T15:31:00.000-08:00

Antes de Navidad en La Paz…

‘Twas the night before Christmas when all through La Paz
Not a sailboat was cruising, not even sea hogs.
The stockings were hung by the masts and the rails.
In hopes that San Nicholas would soon bring new sails.

The salty dog in his watch cap with his wench for a crew
Had just finished a nightcap of homemade boat brew.
When out on the dock there arose such a clatter!
They sprang to the deck to hear something go “splatter”.

He threw open the hatch and fell over the gear,
His bare feet a flutter, his head full of beer.
He cursed like a sailor In spanglish and more.
As he climbed over the toe rail to settle a score.

Then what to his blurry eyes should appear?
But a miniature panga! With eight tiny dolphin to steer!
A little old pescadero so lively and quick!
They knew in a moment It must be Saint Nick?

El pescadero halted his dolphins and threw up a line
To the sailors on dock, mouths still agape and in shock!
Though tired and hung-over, the cruisers they knew,
Were witnessing history - even as the wind blew!

Sitting aboard with his tackle, tequila and rellenos
Sat Panga Juan! and his pescados frescos!
Dressed all in yellow from his head to his shoes,
San Juan was apparently spreading the news.

“Senior Santa – he no come!” said Juan as he rose.
“Instead, I bring fish, fair winds and no snow!
My dolphins, they guide you to best places to be,
Where there are beaches and sunshine and the beer…almost free!”

Packages from home with cards and new CD’s, lights for the boats, fruitcake and cheese;
The sailors, now happy and forgiving the noise, gave San Juan many hugs full of joy.
He unloaded his fish and a cooler of beer, bottles of tequila …and the rum brought a cheer!
Returning to his boat and to the dolphins gave a nod, he rose out of site and declared

“Feliz Navidad!”

~ author: Linda

2008-12-20T09:33:00.000-08:00

A few more pics! First is Lucy, the dock mascot, a very large, noisy and obnoxious goose. She begs for food, loves tomatoes and cucumbers. And we were warned NOT to feed her ON the boat or she will be your friend for life.
Here is Ana and Steve, Ginger's friends who live here and have been most gracious in adopting us, giving us insider tips. And is the best guide - she is biligual and knows where the best bargains, food, the ceramic pottery makers and the weaver are. Very sweet folks - thanks, Ana!

Here I am on a walk to the north of our marina. The malecon (boardwalk) is at least 12 feet wide in most places and very well manitained...all along the ocean.

Here was one of the dolphins we sighted at sea, playing with the boat.

And of course, the galley and a few Christmas decor items out. Not much storage!!!

Boat Chores

2008-12-20T08:56:00.000-08:00

My one and only attempt to make something for Christmas...a mess!

Happy Holidays to all! It sounds very cold up north where all the relatives and friends are - even some snow due at our home in Sierra Vista! Our house-sitters also have our dog, Red, who has wiggled his way into sleeping with them (thanks Nancy and Steve). They have tucked the tortoise in for a long winter's nap and the Koi are also probably in winter-mode. But we hear (the brother weather report) snow in Vegas, LA and lots in Oregon, too. Will make a pretty Christmas for all. Donna and Bob, due back to Arizona in January, were at 8 below zero, 39 below with the wind chill near Fargo, ND. BBbrrrrr!

As the holiday festivities continue here, there was a small drop in tempurature to make it a balmy 70-80 degrees, with nice breezes and overcast. La paz is still gearing up with shoppers, special toy stores and decorations. I will miss the lighted palm trees down the malecon after the holidays!

Chores: What do we do on the boat all day? Boat stuff! Routine cleaning and upkeep takes more time than it would seem. Doing anything in the galley is more difficult with digging through the refrigerator/freezer, finding where a specific canned good is stowed, lighting the stove or oven and doing dishes after a meal. Even turning on the microwave, toaster or the coffee maker involves making sure the 110 electric is on first. My cabinets are limited and I try to keep the most-used items up front so I don't have to dig so far! It seems to be getting easier - or I am adapting. Making the bed in a corner is also frustrationg but think I have a better sytem now. I am working on reupohlstering a cover for the mattress.

Bill spent the past two days doing final wood sanding and polishing the bright work (the stainless steel parts). We hope to start the teak oiling process today.

Yesterday, I sorted the V Berth forward and found some little bugs in the bags inside the tubs. So even though it is triple-sealed, I still have to watch it. I had to clean out an entire tub and re-pack - also reloacting a few items to the galley for current use. The V Berth, although fitted as a gues cabin, is my storeroom/pantry. Everything from sails, to sewing machine, soup to nuts, linens, art supplies, luggage/bags and paperwork. It's very full! (crammed is a better word - but organized now!)

Today I will attempt to make some of the Cowboy Cookies - a family recipe Marti forwarded. It will be the second time I have used the oven! I wanted to try Marti's great chocolate cake in a cup but the items are buried so will have to dig them out after I do the breakfast dishes! I will probably use the cookies for give-away treats so i won't be tempted to eat too many. Bill doesn't do sweets.

Dinner Date: Friday evening, we met two couples for drinks and dinner. We started at the Bismark Cafe on the Malecon. They have huge margaritas - but we stuck to beer to keep my tummy happier. We listened to a singer who did a few sad love songs and then a mariachi group of eight played - with horns, big guitars and all! From there, we walked to a BBQ ribs place. What a treat! I had the pork baby back and Bill had the beef ribs - all cooked on a grill on the patio where we sat, under the stars. It was heaven - great food and we'll go back. The other couples shared a flan dessert, that was presented beautifully and served with ice cream. The toilet (bano) was interesting: in the ladies (Mujeres) room, there are two toilets side by side. No partitions. Kinda of reminded me of the old military barracks heads....

It's the weekend before Christmas so we are trying for some tickets to a concert. The web for local information is http://www.rozinlapaz.com/

~ Linda

2008-12-17T22:13:00.000-08:00

A few pics! The first is Tanque de Tiburon anchored in San Juanico Bay; we dinghy'd to shore to explore. The second is at a lovely old hotel in Loreto. And third is us in our slip in La Paz; note our blue mast to the right of the red pirate ship.

Shopping in La Paz

2008-12-17T21:32:00.000-08:00

We hope any questions you may have about sailing or La Paz, you will pass on to us. That way,we can search for someone who knows anything about sailing or La Paz....seriously, we are new at this whole thing so it is exciting and we learn more and more everyday. So far, we have figured which end of the boat is forward and made it head south and arrive in one piece. We are now working on the touristy part of exploring La Paz. (P.S. Bill is an excellent sailor, mechanic, wood refinisher and general fix-it guy; Linda is working on the cooking and cleaning part and has mastered the shopping end of the deal.)

Morning Net: Channel 22 at 8 AM is the routine local American cruiser's report, or "net". It is hosted by a variety of volunteers from all the marinas here. Sometimes it is boring but there is always a weather report, rides and crew, swaps and trades (no sales between Americans in Mexico), a few jokes and requests for information or assistance. Parties, pot lucks and meetings are also announced. It really is a good connection and the cruiser community is pretty awesome!

Shopping: While Bill supervised woodwork and sanded, Linda ventured out today to find a post office and meander through town toward the CCC Grocery store. The first taxi driver was a young man who did not know La Paz well. That's ok - with the trusty map, she showed him where she needed to go! Cost: $5. The taxi ride home from CCC - quite a bit further, was about $8. In between, she walked 10,000 steps, all over town! The post cards and letter cost the same to mail via Mexcian postal service - about $1 each. For those sent, let us know when they arrive! In the future, we can buy US stamps and send mail back with cruisers when they return to the states.

The CCC is a large grocery that, as many do here, also includes clothes, shoes and linens. They have a limited selection for Americans, like skim milk and some cheeses. She also found some chocolate chips and saltines to make the Cowboy Cookies, an old family recipe sent from sister Marti. Thanks!

Weather: It was a overcast, cool day and felt perfect for walking and boat work. Shorts are perfect but not hot. The nights are cooler, drops to 60 degrees and just feels great sleeping with the gentle breeze rocking the boat. Our wind generator can be annoying but we certainly know when the wind picks up as it starts "thumping".

Routines and food: Dinner was made easy after unloading groceries, cleaning veggies and sorting and stocking, we did the most logical thing - watched yet another lovely sunset from the cockpit. Following that, we went to the Perico Loco Bar and had our favorite soup: Xochitl (Zoe-Chee). It's different for each restaurant but primarily a broth with chicken or beef, rice or tortillas, cilantro and tomatoes. Tonight's was chicken and rice and some wonderful spices, very good with a cold cerveza! Back to the boat, showered (Bill went to the marina showers), update the log and to bed. ho hum

2008-12-16T10:57:00.000-08:00

La Paz 2008 - 2009

December 5-11

A note: Some communications are limited when we are out to sea. When traveling by sailboat, we cannot always say when will be in or out of a given location (that may or may not have internet connection) due to weather and tides, etc. Therefore, although we had reservations in La Paz for Dec 1, we arrived the fifth as we had several longer lay-over for winds greater than we want to travel in - or Thanksgiving. For those who have asked, we have lots of radio, position location, etc., “stuff” - from radar to GPS(s) to VHS(s) to SSB (Ham).

On our first morning and after breakfast on the Dinghy Dock restaurant at the hotel, we took a nice stroll around another dock and looked at some real Yates (yachts)...wow and whoa! There is a cool pirate boat near us (Haley’s Comet) - apparently owned by a American movie star (Kansaas City Chiefs fan) who takes underprivileged kids out. He was eating breakfast near us and commented on Bill's Redskins t-shirt. He was on Family Ties and some Die Hard movies, I think - a big black guy. I'll get his name later. did recognize him. A boat near us, Lance and Jo on Milagro, know him; they also knew our boat well from Earl and Maria. Milagro’s little dog, Rocky, (a little terrier) also seemed to know our boat.

Most of the days work was cleaning off the two weeks of salt spray and sand from the decks, washing the ports and general cleaning in and out. Several trips were made to the marina office for some supplies (does cold beer and ice count as supplies?) and questions for the marina office manager, Barbara.

Later in the week, we contacted Ginger’s friends, Ana and Steve who have a winter home here. During the summers, they live on their boat in Alemeda. We enjoyed a wonderful dinner at la Fonda, very reasonable and great food.

Friday 12 December

Friday was busy and a delight! Bill got the wood sanders/potential painters started and we caught the free shuttle to town at noon. I attended a Sisters Acquiring Sailing Skills meeting at a local restaurant. I would say 20 ladies showed and another cruising nurse, Julia, (I found out later that she is on a 90 foot yacht near us!) gave a talk on basic first aid. Others pitched in local information from where to get a $35 mammogram, which pharmacies are legitimate and emergencies on board. When Julia asked, I volunteered some CPR updates. Some new information was new to me but also nice to meet new cruisers - and a few I have known from San Carlos.

Then we met three other couples for a drink/lunch and Ana led us to the local weavers. There were interesting rugs, shawls and table runners. We went back to Ana and Steve's cute casa and sat on the patio and chatted, sharing funny boat stories over a cerveza and cacahuates (peanuts). After, we walked back to our marina along the malecon after dark, grabbing a wonderful street restaurant burrito for $3.... loaded. It was a long trek back and took almost an hour. The malecon was busy, lighted normally and with Christmas lights on the palm trees, now. There was much activity as Friday was a Mexican holiday - Our Lady of Guadalupe. Bill purchased a package and wouldn't tell me what it was. Hum. Christmas?

Total, we did over 14000 steps! Glad I brought my pedometer. Highly recommended; kind of fun to see what you can do in a day. I was pooped last night! Showered on board and we sat up top and watched something creeping/swimming about the marina - jumping and flapping and appeared to be either seals or really big flying fish....

Saturday, December 13, 2008

I met two or three women for a walk back in to town, meeting Ana to show us the wonderful local ceramic pottery place and I found the American bookstore, several gift and craft shops and a lunch stop for shrimp tacos – and cerveza and ice tea. (I have found the ice tea here us usually sweetened, as it is in the south – so will have to carry my own or skip it for beer….) I was tired by the time we returned! I awoke at 0430 with the headache I went to bed with. I think I was probably a little dehydrated. Well, I did bang my head into a sign as we walked back at night, too. I will carry water in the future, duh.

I usually wake early on the boat – unusual for me! Up with early hot tea in the cockpit, watching the marina come alive is very pleasant. The sun is rising over a hill to our east is pretty. I have some Christmas candles for burning, too and they smell good.

We had a nice dinner back at La Fonda Saturday evening and met Ana and Steve, Carla and Doug – all friends of Earl and Maria’s. Also there, a young family cruising with little kids, also from the Alemeda area – The Griffins on s/v Totem. They are just the cutest family, a boy 9 and two girls 4 and 6. Can you imagine the challenges at sea with little ones? Their stories are interesting. Very well-behaved, smart and sweet children. That was a nice dinner and we shared a cab back to our marina.

Sunday and Monday, December 14, 15, 2008

Not much to report as we puttered with boat stuff and email, downloading pictures and starting the blog site both days. Still have work to do on the picture downloads to my Kodak Gallery site – but can also put a few on the blog. We didn’t walk as much…to the marina office and the Dinghy Dock Bar….Perico Loco. Nice and balmy, a few clouds and breezes - paradise!

Bill stripped and oiled the aft swim ladder; he had to use his dremmel to get the rust off the ladder before he polished it. It looks like new – very pretty! A local dock worker, Javier, and his crew have been helping Bill strip and sand the boat wood, too…and almost done. Instead of paint, we will probably try just a monthly teak oil coating. It looks so pretty just oiled!

Off for a walk to town and to find the post office today. And just explore a little more on my own. Will get the good walking shoes on!
**************

2008-12-15T18:35:00.000-08:00

NOTE! We have started our own sailing Blog - welcome aboard! Below is the log that some of you have recieved already, with a few differrent pics added. This first one is the entire first trip south from San Carlos to La Paz, so grab a cup of coffee or a large beer and have at it. Feel free to post some comments for us, too.

More pics TF! Linda and Bill