StephenVeale - stephenveale

The Heavenly Twins in the picure above, was taken by John Holloway, who won first prize in the Heavenly Twins & Ocean Winds Owners Association annual photo contest [aka the HTOWOA which is based in England, but his members worldwide]  Click on the 'comment' below for more details.

I'm finally getting a round too-it, that is, updating this blog.  I'm going to be bass ackwards, and start from today, September 3rd. 

 Hurricane Earl is predicted to hit south eastern New England tonight, and guess yours truely is, yep, how did ye know?:  se new england!  More exactly, I'm achored in a pretty little hurricane hole named the Kickamuit River, which is in north eastern Narraganset Bay.

Luckily, its predicted to be a glancing blow, and not a direct hit, which means less wind, tidal surge,etc.  Earl was up to cat. 4, 3 yesterday, and presently 2 with winds of appox. 105mph.  They're predicting 45-50, with 60 knot gusts for this area. 

 

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summer 2010 002.JPG 2007-03-13

summer 2010
nyc

nyc
the battery

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brooklin bridge
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bill joels house in sag harbor

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ditto

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cg base block island

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an ity bity sub

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sula

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the Pidgion coop [a heavenly twins we saw on our way from block island to newport. Owned by Jim Coop, for 23 years

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ditto

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Pell bridge, newport

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newport

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, newport

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cindy can leave her hat on!

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, newport

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cottage.jpg
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an island home [nearjamestown ri].jpg
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Brenton Cove.jpg
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Newport cottage.jpg
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NINA in the Kickamuet River, RI
Dayton Trubee and Ingrid Coles scow schooner, NINA'

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well heeled sailboat, in a stiff breeze

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well heeled sailboat, in a stiff breeze

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bad day at the office

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Central Park, NYC

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Central Park, NYC

Central Park, NYC
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bill , steve , and dayton in the park
Central Park, NYC

Central Park, NYC
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Central Park, NYC

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bubble man
Central Park, NYC

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Central Park, NYC
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my next boat!.jpg
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newport harbor.jpg
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Trinty Church Newport ri.jpg
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window seamans church institute.jpg
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cindylou sporting new hat.jpg
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cool wine rack.jpg
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auntie ques store.jpg
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interested in a cheap safe?.jpg
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seamans church institute.jpg
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newport.jpg
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tour boat.jpg
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pretty sunset.jpg
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bigassed cruise ship.jpg
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cindy in galley.jpg
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sunrise newpot.jpg
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pretty schooner
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beach on south coast r i
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overlooking eastern passasge, narraganset bay.jpg
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big catamaran at newport shipyard.jpg
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dog on boat001
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dog on boat002
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dog on boat003
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trinty, a racing trimaran.jpg
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dog on boat004
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dog on boat006
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Sula
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ditto.jpg
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Experimental Navy boat, Norfolk
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Tangier Island

history of

Tangier Island

read the sign!  I guess if the Healthcare dosn't work, they don't have far to take you.

Tangier Island

sunset at low tide

Tangier Island

keeping the dearly departed close to home

Tangier Island

steve, cindy, larry, jackie, maggie, and walter
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Cindy, with Tiloo cut in the background
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Lighthouse on Elbow Cay, Hopetown
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Pirate with funny shirt, @Nippers, Guana Cay
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Atlantic Ocean: Guana Cay
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A bore in a bar: Guana Cay
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Man-O-War Cay
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Black Friday
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downtown norfolk
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Thanksgiving morning on the alligator river,n.c.
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navy base
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Pongo River, N.C.
CYPRESS SWAMP 2008-11-25

PEACE
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CHEASAPEAKE SCHOONER RACE
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Peace IV
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SCHOONER
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RACE
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PRIDE OF BALTIMORE
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cindy and lucy at ripleys
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steve and m.m. at Ripleys NYC
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pretty cindy
2005 spring 014.jpg 2005-03-31

pirate steve
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Who dat smokin' dee big fat ceegarr?
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solomans island, md.,december '07
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funnly phone, museum of art nyc
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mystic seaport museum
2004 124.jpg 2004-08-10

oxford, md
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mystic seaport museum
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jennifer veale, narragansett bay, rd. is.
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lake george, ny
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weekender. [bought from tom and carol jones, Jones Boats, tuckahoe nj'
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Sula anchored in Back Creek, Soloman's Island

picture taken by Karl Broer, ie, cruising rabbit

1/1/2012 3:50:01 PM - 002027856270

We rang in the new year down in Ellenton florida. Dinner and champane at the Crab Trap Resturand, then back to the house for a ride in the golf cart, fireworks and champane.  Feel asleep before the ball dropped. HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL!

 

11/29/2011 9:39:28 PM - 002027856270

We got Sula winterized during Cindys four day weekend.  We picked up a couple of used outboards at a consignment channlery while up there.  One is a longshaft four horse, for the Weekender, and a sixty for the Pembroke, that I had hoped to bring back while we were there, but the new rims and tires were the wrong side, so if I don't make it back up there before, I'll tow it back in April, when we plan on going up to do some work on Sula. I had planned on putting the old Pembroke in the shop this winter for its restoration, but..........

11/29/2011 9:38:45 PM - 002027856270

 

 

11/29/2011 9:37:20 PM - 002027856270
We had a fourday weekend in Rhode Island, and got Sula winterized. She should also be shrink wrapped by now. I picked up a couple of used outboards which are sitting in the shop now.

11/29/2011 9:15:52 PM - 002027856270
Thanksgiving done, the big holiday isn't far away. Got Sula tucked in, and she should be shrink wrapped by now. Picked up a couple of used outboards while we were there.

10/31/2011 12:11:48 PM - 002027856270
Next week well see us to to Rhode island to winterize Sula. This weekends storm was quite a surprize! Goodby Rocktober, hello November. The frost was on the pumpkis this morning.

10/24/2011 5:12:49 PM - 002027856270
Drove the 'Vett to Annapolis this weekend. We saw John Hiatt at the Rams Head Inn, and visited with friends, Rob Blood, Heavenly Twins Cool Change, and Tom and Deb Neal, HT, The Dash. Great food at the Middleton Inn, and some good brew at Stewards Btew Pub on the way back.

10/11/2011 9:03:30 PM - 002027856270
Hauled Sula last Friday. Had survey done. Amtraked back home last weekend.

10/1/2011 9:37:16 AM - 002027856270
"Is anybody out there?"
I love Pink Floyd

9/23/2011 9:26:35 PM - 002027856270

Autumn 2011:  1st entry.  Took off the furling genoa jib, and the mainsail  yesterday.  Never removed the main before.  Its a Mac Pack, [A system made by Mac Sails] and has lazy jacks attached to the sail cover, so it took a bit of time. 

   One step closer to haul out.  Speaking of which, I am having Norton's Shipyard and Marina haul Sula.  Its in East Greenwich RI:   http://www.nortonsmarina.com/ and it is a very nice town. Took a ride over there a couple of weeks ago for the first time this year.

   Decided not to unstep the mast and all that entails, including taking off the wind charger, to have the transported via the road, to The Land that Time Forgot.   Would have saved some bucks, but thats not the point

 

  

9/22/2011 4:30:06 PM - 002027856270

Final entry for Summer of 2011:

   Sailed down to Newport Friday, went to the boatshow Sat., and did some shopping and laundry Monday.  Didn't bother with the dink, water taxies are  too easy. 

   Did the usual Newport routine:  breakfast and shower @ the seamans church institute, clam chowder and IPA's @ the Black Pearl, and Brick Ally.  Evem managed to sqeeze in some x-mas shopping.

   Sailed back to Warren Tuesday; started "down rigging" in preparation for hauling out.  Tom offered his services to haul and store, the only drawback will be unstepping the mast. 

Back to work on Sula.  Enjoy the Autumnal Eqiunox!  

9/16/2011 10:39:39 AM - 002027856270

Its been a couple of weeks so here goes. I moved Sula up river and tied up to one of Toms docks, at The land that time forget Marina. Actually, its a work in progress.  Tom Koolen bought the property 5 years ago.  On it is a 200 year old farm house,  which is divided into 4 living units.  I havn't been inside yet, but it looks pretty neat.  Its been neglected and needs some major work.  There is a small building attached to a dam and waterfall on a small pond, which is spring fed, its water being quite cool.  Tom wants to make it liveable for himself, and rent the 4 apts. in the farmhouse.  He lives in Swansea, Ma., about 9 miles from Warren RI.

 

One of the boats here that I like is a 19', 1954 Pembroke cruiser/runabout .  The hull is lapstake mahagony, and was built in New Hamster.  The company is long out of business.  The Pembroke will be heading to South Jersey in November.   

I'm planning on sailing to Newpot tomorrow, and checking out the boatshow this weekend.  A front passed through yesterday, and left an early taste of Fall in its wake.  Highs in the low 60's, lows in the low 40's.  Lovin it! 

 

 

9/1/2011 2:16:00 PM - 002027856270

We left the Vineyard last week and sailed to Cuttyhunk Island. We trecked ashore for a pleasant walk enjoying the sights of this wonderful place.
The next morning we dingied ashore for a walk and a swim. When we were done, someone told us about the earthquake. We would have been sailing Buzzards Bay at the time, but  saw no tidal waves!
More important to us was Irene. She was on a direct course for us. We weighed anchor, as did the majority of boaters there, and set sail for Narraganset Bay.

 

We anchored in the Kickamuet River, which is part of Bristol R.I.  I anchored here a year ago when another "cane" was threatening.  The next day we went ashore to scope it out. We found what appeared to be a marina in the making: a dozen or so docks tied together and one boat.  We tied the dink up to one and walked to town.  I asked a guy for directions to a bar, and he said get in, I'll take you there.  Right on bro!

 After lunch and libations, we rented a car, and played tourist.  We ended up at a Courtyard Mariott in Middletown.  The check in chick told us that they didn't have a backup generator, but they did have food and booze! 

 

This was last Friday.  The next day we drove back to what we named "the land that time forgot".  Its the property where the docks are.  A guy was on the one boat there,which was an old Coast Guard fireboat. We asked him about where we might leave the dink, and said we could leave it where it was, and we could also park the car there.  There are 30 boats, in various stages of neglect.  I've got my eye on a 19 foot runabout.

We battened down the hatches on Sula, said a kind of prayer to the boat gods asking for her safty. We gathed up a survival kit of sorts: flash lights, VHF radio, etc.  before going back to the hotel.  Along the way we topped off the gas tank, and hit the Stop and Shop for some grub.

If you are a boater, camper, or any other kind of nut, you'll appreciate A.C., [thank you Mr. Carrier], hot running water, and TV more than the average bear.

Irene ushered in Sunday morning.  After breakfast, we drove up to Bristol. I drove into the yard of "the land that time forgot". Its raining buckets and blowing like a motherfucker.  Trees are down all over the place.  Cindy suggests that we go back to the street and park so that a tree does not fall on the car.  No way was she getting out of the car, smart girl!

I put on my rain gear, and with fear in my heart, make my way  to where the dink is.   The dock that was previosly attached to land had shifted 90 degrees, and is no longer attached to the dock where the dink is tied. The connecting dock ended up along side of the bank, where a dozen trees blew over. I had planed on bringing dink ashore, but that option was cancelled. The wind was blowing straight down the length of the river, so it had a fetch of 2 miles, making 4 foot waves:  Rock and roll!

I waste no time looking at dink; a huge tree above me looks like it could come tumbuling down anytime soon and I sure don't want to be under it if it does.  Back to the car to drive the mile to where we can see Sula.  We eventually find a public access road which is about a quarter mile from Sula. I can't see her.  Finally Cindy does.  I can bearly make her out through the rain, but there she is, pitching like a bitch, but still in the spot where we left her.

So far, so good.  Back to the hotel, we're greeted the question "Would you like a flash light and botteled water?  Appsatutly!

We expect to have electicty back by 2.  Two when?

2  pm. 

what day?

today.

she was overly optamistick!

Awhile later they put food and drink out for the guests.  A group of college kids bogarted the beer and wine, but we were happy to get some real food instead of the snacks we had stocked up on.

 OK.  Getting back to the room was interesting.  They had glow sticks on the floor in hallways.  OK ,no ac, tv, but the water was still warm.  One last bath before its gone.  Cindy had already taken a swim in the pool, which half is outside, and half inside. The hot tub was great too!

 Monday morning we were out of hot water, and had hoped for a dip, but the cabana boy was busy getting leaves out, and by noon it was officially closed from the filter being off fo so many hours.  Oh well, we're used to boat baths anyway, so no big deal.  My lovely wife likes her bath water scalding hot, so I was impressed when she took a cold water shower.

Off to Newport for lunch, or so we thought.  Newport was still blacked out too.  We took a ride along ocean drive.  Last year, when Jenn visited, we took a bus tour of the "cottages" [mansions] along Ocean Drive. One of the estates is owned Caroline Kennedy [she also has a house on Marthas  Vineyard.  Its post card perfect.

 After Newport we drove up to Bristol to look at Sula.  She was a good girl, and didn't go anywhere without us.  We stopped for lunch and then I dropped off Cindylou at T.F. Green airport near Providence.  After that I finally got back aboard.  Other than having a ladies shower cap [cover for a solar ventalator] blow away, every thing was fine.  A little sea water found its way through the pilot house windows, but that was all.

I wish you all have great Labor Day, especially those laboring, as it keeps my S.S. checks coming!

cheers!!!

9/1/2011 1:41:01 PM - 003006354778
Happy Anniversary to you both...better late than never...glad to see you and Cindy are enjoying yourselves...only 3 more yrs and the 2 of you will be able to enjoy this kind of trip a lot more...enjoy...Naomi

8/23/2011 1:10:08 AM - 002027856270
Thanks Sue and Gary.

We've been enjoying Island life the last few days. After the fireworks friday night, we spent the night at the Ritz Cafe. They have an apartment upstairs that we took for the night. I was told later that we've been intiated into the family now! One can't have too much family.....well, they do say friends and fish stink after three days, so this could apply here as well. Will keep you informed on this note.

Unfortunatly, Cindylou heads home next week to work with the ones that need to be put into 'pods'. I suppose someone has to work, but after 3 more years she'll have the option of retiring [god willing and the tide don't rise too high!].

I just finished a book she gave me for our anniversery, which was very good. Light reading, funny, and it has a hopeful message. Its called 'Hitchhiking with larry david". I don't want to spoil it for anyone looking for a good read. It takes place on the Vineyard and could be catagorized as a love story, but its alot more than that: its well worth the time.

I hope you all have a great end of summer!
Cooler temps are coming our way.
Enjoy!

8/19/2011 2:14:15 AM - 004034339767
Hey Steve. Great blog. Nice to see you enjoying life.

8/18/2011 12:17:17 PM - 004034919403
Happy Anniversary! Fairy Tales can come can true they can happen you, if you're young at heart.........

8/18/2011 11:35:48 AM - 002027856270
Yesterday we visted the islands arboritum in West Tissbury, and then had lunch in Menemsha . This quaint little fishing village is what one thinks of when you envision New England coast. Its also where some of the scenes in "Jaws" was shot.
After that we went to Edgartown and hoisted a few at the brew pub. While there, two secret service types checked in with the manager about a visit by the "prez'; they arrive today. Two years ago the Obomas' had lunch at the "Atlantic", [which has an excellant menu, and the view is perfect!]
Today its off to the laundry and the micro brewery for lunch . Tomorrow is our 15th anniversity dinner in Oak Bluffs at an inn overlooking Nantucket Sound,  watching the islands annual fireworks display.

8/16/2011 11:26:23 PM - 002027856270
Sailed back to the Lagoon Pond, Vineyard Haven yesterday. Lots of rain, but nothing like they had at home.
The Obomas' are here or getting ready to visit. We saw a half dozen choppers this morning, which makes one think they're either here or getting ready.

8/14/2011 1:19:14 PM - 002027856270
We sailed from the "Vineyard" to "Nantucket" last Wed., and were delighted to find a new town dock, that had a bathroom with showers. Stuff that we take for granted on shore which is very appreaciated on board.  Took buses to both ends of the island, which we hadn't visited before. [they're also new since we were here last time.]  Did the Whaling Museum, which is always interesting.

8/7/2011 12:54:11 PM - 002027856270
We left Block Is., Wed. and anchored in Cuttyhunk Pond that afternoon. Thursday saw us to Martha's Vineyard, where we're anchored in the Lagoon Pond, near Vineyard Haven, Ms. Took the bus to Edgartown yesterday and had lunch at the "Atlantic" overlooking Chappiquidic Pond.

8/1/2011 12:21:59 PM - 003006354778
Glad to see that Cindy and you are back on the big blue sea...enjoy!!! Naomi

7/31/2011 3:18:32 PM - 002027856270

Sunday, July 31st., 2011

After leaving Cape May last Monday, we arrived at Block Island, Rhode Island yesterday.  After anchoring in the Great Salt Pond, we dingied ashore and had lunch at our favorite spot, the National Hotel, overlooking Old Harbor.  They make the best hot lobster roll we've ever had.  Eat em up, yum yum! 

Along the way, we stopped at our usual anchorages:  A.C., Manasquan, City Island,  Port Jefferson, and Gardiners Bay, Long Island.

7/16/2011 9:16:15 PM - 002027856270

We took Sula down the Bay to Cape May, a week ago, Thursday.  Friday saw us to Atlantic City.  After topping up the gas tank, we passed Rum Point to go to the anchorage.  When almost there, the engine alarm, indicating over heating, came on.  Saturday morning we took the lower unit off of the engine, to check the impeller, which was fine, but the engine would overheat after running a few minutes.  I arranged with Boat US for a tow back to Wildwood where there is a Honda Outboard Motor Service.  After the people at Schooner Island Marina decided they would have to haul the boat, it took till yestrday to get around to doing it.  Long story short, they had to order a part, so we're back home for a few days.  They're talking Tuesday, so will have to wait and see!

1/1/2011 12:18:42 PM - 003053473759
well ya punked out on the new jersey weather. lol. running south. Is boat bum similar to drum bum? I would bet they are.
take care Stefano

12/27/2010 3:41:12 PM - 002027856270
Cindy and I flew into Tampa Florida xmas day. Got cool and windy yesterday, which was due to the snow storm up north.  We drove to Santa Maria Island yesterday, and driving to Maderia Beach to see a boat bum [The Cruising Rabbit, sorry Karl, It's a compliment!] friend of ours.  Not missing the foot of snow up home.

12/13/2010 3:27:13 AM - 002027856270
It was a happy day. Bill Ludman, a Floridian, bought Rhiannon from the guy I sold her to over a year ago. She'd been neglected since then. I think Bill will be a good owner, and have many adventures with her too. Good luck Bill!

12/9/2010 3:27:59 AM - 003006354778
Good luck with finding Rhiannon a new home...it'll probably be both a happy & sad day...

12/8/2010 2:01:39 AM - 002027856270
It looks Rhiannon may be getting a new owner, I'm keeping my toes crossed!

10/8/2010 3:59:21 AM - 002027856270

I want to send out a heartfelt thanks to all of my friends and family for all of the help, kindness, support, and empathy that you showered upon me and mine.  I love you all. I suppose that its times like this when you realize who your real friends are. I'll add a poem that my daughter read at Steve's service, "Sea Fever".  By John Masefield.  This poem was in my partents yearbook,the "Baconian" the Bridgeton High School class of  way back before dirt was a day old, and water was two days old.

Sea Fever

I must down to the seas again, to the lonely sea and the sky,

And all I ask is a tall ship and a star to steer her by, S And the wheel’s kick and the wind’s song and the white sail’s shaking,

And a gray mist on the sea’s face and a gray dawn breaking,

 

I must down to the seas again, for the call of the running tide Is a wild call and a clear call that must not be denied;

And all I ask is a windy day with the white clouds flying,

And the flung spray and the Blown spume, and the sea-gulls crying.

 

I must down to the seas again to the vagrant gypsy life,

To the gull’s way and the whale’s way where the wind’s like a whetted knife;

And all I ask is a merry yarn from a laughing fellow-rover,

And quiet sleep and a sweet dream when the long trick’s over.   

 John Masefield  

 

10/3/2010 4:00:57 PM - 002027856270

Stephen Charles Veale

 

Born June 2^nd 1966, in Bridgeton New Jersey to Stephen C. Veale and Roxanne (Smith) Paul.  Forty-four year old Veale, died unexpectedly on September 29^th, 2010 when he was involved in a motorcycle accident near Fortesque, New Jersey.

Stephen Veale is survived by his mother Roxanne Paul, step-father Russell Paul of Gibbstown, father Stephen Veale and step-mother Cindy Veale of Vineland, brother Kyle  and sister Jennifer Veale, five step brother’s Benjamin, Richard, and Andrew Paul, Kevin and Phillip Potter, Uncle Hank Veale of Delaware.  Survivors also include his fiance’ MaryLee Nelson and her son Zachary.  His best friend and companion was his dog Crab.

Predeceased by his grand-parents Charles and Gladys Smith and Harry and Estelle Veale.  Stephen Veale had a love for the water and sailing.  He loved nature and always was at peace when he was on or by the water.  He touched many lives with his love, compassion, and friendship.  His smile would light up a room.  He will be missed and remembered by many. 

  

10/2/2010 1:54:30 PM - 003059311120
Steve, so sorry for your loss, our hearts go out to you and the family. PB, Bev and the girls.

10/2/2010 1:16:53 PM - 003059410694
Steve, Cindy, & family...hold fast to the good memories...no parent should have to endure your loss...with sympathy and caring hearts...Naomi Z and family

10/1/2010 12:48:06 AM - 003053473759
let us set sail away from our troubled world and never look back at the pain. I am so sorry for your loss. SJVermullen

9/28/2010 12:24:14 AM - 002027856270

If you want a good laugh, check this out

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PioTMe1pNls

9/28/2010 12:22:04 AM - 002027856270

9/27/2010 12:31:10 AM - 002027856270

SUNDAY:  I had a nice sail from A.C. to Cape May.  Its about a 30 mile run, and with a fresh tailwind, Sula covered the distance smartly. As with every multihull I've ever sailed, downwind is always the best point of sail. Up to 25 degrees on either side of the wind is a treat.  It was a 6-7 knot ride all the way, with some surfing off the bigger waves.  

After passing through the inlet, it started raining, with some thunder rumbling.  I sailed to the anchorage in the outer harbor, taking a few extra tacks waiting for the rain to stop.  About a half hour later, it did, and then anchored.  Cape May harbor is one of my all time favorites.  I plan on staying here at least one extra day. 

9/25/2010 4:08:28 PM - 002027856270

Its been two months to the day, that we were in Atlantic City. I left the Hudson River anchorage noon Thursday. The coast guard had closed the East River, as the prez was addressing the UN. Having gone thru the East River last Sunday, didn't effect me.

I anchored at Manasquan shortly after dark, made dinner, and took a 2 hour kip. I was back out of the inlet by midnight, heading south. The wind and seas were about the same as earlier, but by the time I was off of Barnegat, the fog settled in.
What had been a pretty night, with a full moon, was now dripping wet and visitibility down to a quarter of a mile. This is when one appreciates modern electronics. Getting into Absecon Inlet was a piece of cake. After clearing Absecon Inlet, the fog started burning off.  After fueling up, I anchored past Rum Point, and took a much needed nap. Cindy drove down after work for the weekend.

SUNDAY:  I had a nice sail from A.C. to Cape May.  Its about a 30 mile run, and with a fresh tailwind, Sula covered the distance smartly. As with every multihull I've ever sailed, downwind is always the best point of sail. Up to 25 degrees on either side of downwind run is a treat.  It was a 6-7 knot ride all the way.  Purrrrfectttt!

9/21/2010 1:43:51 AM - 002027856270
As it turns out, it took longer than expected to get to the East River. It was well after dark when I had difficulty stemming the tide. I dropped the hook until the tide turned, south of Rooseavelt Island. Its always exciting going through NYC, and is really pretty at night. Today, I sailed up to the Hudson River, meeting up with Dayton Trubee and Ingred Cole on the scow schooner, NINA. We're going to go play tourist tomorrow.

9/19/2010 9:50:13 AM - 002027856270
I finally left Newport Saturday, September 18th. I attended the Newport Boatshow on Friday, and visited a pub or two on my last night in town.  I sailed through Block Island Sound yesterday, getting to Long Island Sound, and anchored in Duck Island Roads, Ct., in late afternoon.  Sailing through the tide rips was pretty neat!  I took a video of a couple of minutes going through the rips, which I'll download when time permits.  I'm waiting for first light, as there are lobster floats about, which can't be seen without light, before heading west.  If I'm lucky, I'll make New York City before dark.  It all depends on the tide, because ya can't buck the currents on the East River, in particular going through Harlem, via "Hell Gate", which is the only way you can go.  I've sailed through there before when the current hit 6 knots, which is my top speed while motoring speed.

9/10/2010 12:39:01 PM - 002027856270
A Jew and two Arabs are sharing a row of seats on a plane. After exchanging pleasantries, one of the Arabs notices that the flight attendents are at the opposite end of the plane dispensing drinks. As the Jew excuses himself to go forward, one of the Arabs askes if he would mine getting a soda for him while he's up there. Being friendly, the Jew says he would be glad to do him the favor. After the Jew goes forward, one of the Arabs picks up one of the Jews shoes, that he had left under his seat, and spits in it. The two Arabs are smiling at one another when the Jew returns with the soda. Before sitting down, the 2nd Arab said the soda looked refreshing, and seeing as he was still standing, would he mind getting him a soda too. The Jew, again, being polite, says no problem and goes for the soda. The 2nd Arab, picks up the 2nd shoe, spits in it, and returns it to under the seat. The Jew returns several minutes later, gives the 2nd Arab his soda, and says to them: "Gentelmen, we really should stop this childish behavor, spitting in shoes, pissing in sodas..."

9/9/2010 3:13:23 AM - 002027856270

If you want to see some awesome wave pictures, hit this link

http://www.joe-ks.com/archives_jan2010/WavesOfHawaii.htm  :

9/9/2010 12:44:24 AM - 002027856270
Steve Vermullon. you have an open invitation. Keep in touch so we can plan it out. Be aware tho that "The beatings will continue until moral improves!"

9/8/2010 12:29:31 AM - 003053473759
great site. maybe i could be a deck hand one day Arrrrrrr matey!! StefanO

9/7/2010 12:52:06 AM - 002027856270

9/5/2010 11:06:22 PM - 002027856270
to quote Ben Franklin: There are no good wars and no bad peace.

9/3/2010 7:42:00 PM - 002027856270
Hey Dave, the powders still dry!

10/25/2008 11:36:23 AM - 002027856270
Ham and Eggs:  a days work for a chicken, a life long cometment for a pig!

What a differance a day can make.  The wind is out of the northwest, and is cool and dry.  This is good weather for catching up on chores.  Saying that, its time to get busy...

MIDNIGHT:  It seems that Earl turned into a pearl.  He's now a tropical storm, max winds at 70mph.  We had a few puffs, and abit o rain, the wind has picked up over the last hour, but thats it.  It should be nice tomorrow as there's a cold front moving in, and the humidity should be gone.  Hal lay lou ya!

I just got back from a dingy ride around the harbor, getting in some sight seeing, while I can.  This is the proverbial calm before the storm.  The breeze just started up from the south east, with cats paws on the water.

I believe that this is the beginning of whats to come.  The sky is taking on an ominous look, with gray displacing what has been pretty blue.  I'm going to see if I can't 'net' me a few "beautiful swimmers" [aka blue claw crabs], as they seem very plentiful...

...I got a couple in the bucket, which will be swimming again soon if I don't catch some more.  Its been raining off and on the last few hours. The good news at 1600 is that Earl is  down to cat. 1, 80 mph winds and the bad news is that he's heading this way.  Am heading for a 'kip', before the spit hits the spam, as I'll be on anchor watch late tonight... 

...Its 23:00 and all is well.  Theres been rain off and on the last several hours, but the wind has been light.  Am waiting for the latest update from NOAA.  The last report had it going east of Nantucket, which is good.  Cindy said she could measure the rain back home in a thimble...

   Having listed Rhiannon since I bought Sula, I was glad to finally sell her.  It was  bitter sweet, thinking back on all the time spent planning, building, and sailing her.  There has been many an adventure with her the last thirty years.

   I just got back from helping the new owner, Carl, sail the boat from Cedarville to Annapolis.  We left last Monday, and anchored in Spa Creek, Tuesday afternoon.  Its pretty late in the season to be getting underway, so I hope he can get to some warmer weather asap. 

Cindy and I just got back from a road trip to Virginia this week.  We attended the Breezeway Blowout at Rebel Marina, the last Saturday of June.  We spent two nights at a motel at Ocean View, which is on  the Bay, which made for nice walks on the beach.

The following Monday, we drove to Suffolk, to vistit Larry Bryant, which we met in the Bahamas.  His house is also on the waterfront, overlooking Hampton Roads.  We sailed on the 'Whisper' in a race Wednesday night, with his friend and first mate, Jackie, and a couple other crew.

The following Friday, we sailed in the Parade of Sail to downtown Norfolk, and the beginning of Harborfest.  There were several Tall Ships, and probably about a hundred other boats sailing in the parade. 

Harborfest is an annual event held in June of most years, but this year, it was moved to the 4th of July weekend, to coincide with the reopening of the Waterside Park.  There was live music on several stages throughout the weekend, including food vendors, and booths set up for crafters and such.  There were fireworkds scheduled for 3 nights, but sunday was a rainout, and we sailed Whisper back to Hampton.

We had a great time, as Larry and Jackie kept us laughing; they would make a good comic act.  Also, the weather was great with highs in the 80's with low humidity.

   I left Annapolis Wednesday morning, and sailed up the bay with a fair wind and tide.  After exiting the C and D Canal, it was a foul wind and tide down Deleware Bay.  I anchored in Natuxant Cove after dark, as the tide wasn't right for getting to Cedarville.

   Thursday morning, I headed up Cedar Creek.  As always, its nice to be home.  Cindy and I drove to the Heavenly Twins meet in Annapolis last weekend.  We spent the night at a real nice bed and breakfast, downtown. 

    We had a good time at the meet, and then the dozen or so people went out to dinner.  We met up at a marina on the Magothy River the next day, and then drove back to Annopolis for lunch before heading home.

 

From Tangier, it was pretty much down wind to Solomans.  Its a good thing as it was really blowing.  Stuck to my tradition of getting a haircut, a pedicure, and hitting the Tike Bar.  Spent two nights there, and then north to Annapolis.

Got here Saturday and it rained cats and dogs Sunday.  Got off the boat Monday doing the tourist thing, and again today.  It most be near graduation at the USNA, as there were alot of kids about in their dress whites. 

The Blue Angles were practicing today, and tomorrow will be putting on their annual show for the USNA.  Pretty cool to watch, but very loud!

I plan on getting out of here early before all of this starts, as part of the Severn River is closed for same.  I plugged in my TomTom and its 130 miles to Cedarville. As they say  "We're smellin' the stall!"

After spending a week in Norfolk, I left Rebel Marina, yesterday.  As always, it was great seeing the friends I've made there, and making new ones.  It seems to be a magnet for cool, interesting people.  David Briggs is pretty selective about his customers.

Last Saturday,one of their local yacht clubs hosted a "Thurston Howl III,  and Lovie" [of Gilligans Island fame] look alike contest [party] .  The guys were decked out in blue blazers, ascots, and ties; the ladies in old style dresses, that they got from local thirft stores, and large funny hats.  [sorry I forgot the camera]

As was the tradition that the founder of Rebel Marina, Lane Briggs, who started the tie cutting traditions, son Steve Briggs, cut off all the guys ties. They are now hanging on a plack that Town Point Yacht Club donated to the marina.  Apparently the senior Briggs didn't go for formal attire!   Rebel is hosting a fund raiser called "The Breezeway Blowout" on June 27th.....[http://www.mikeaikenmusic.com/store/blowout.html].....  for the Youth Sail Education Program,  Lane Briggs' memorial fund, [which I will add a link to].  There will be live music performed by Mike Aiiken. If you've never been to Norfolk, this would be a fun time to do so.

I docked in Parks Marina, on Tangier Island, Va., yesterday.  I was there about 25 years ago; it hasn't changed much.  It takes about an hour to walk the island. I had breakfast, county style, with a couple from another sailboat this morning.  The locals have a very unique accent.  I'll get around to including some pictures that I took soon.  I sailed to Solomans, Maryland, today.  I had a fair wind, which was good, as it got up to blowing 35 mph by the time I got in. 

There were pretty good sized waves and plenty of whitecaps.  Sula, [and myself] do well downwind.  She clips right along, surfing off of the waves.  I had to alter course for a Naval exercise that was going on while approachng the Putuxant River.  Coming up closer to wind  was sorta like hitting some large speed bumbs [the nacelle gets pretty annoying sometimes], but nothing like beating to windward!

 

 

 

Have been mostly motoring north and east the past few days.  The anchorages in N.C. have been Wrightsville, Swansboro, and Eastham Creek, which is where I anchored on Thanksgiving, getting up to frost on deck.  No ice now, just a few pesky bugs. 

From there, I continued up the Pongo River, and then to the Pongo - Alligator Canal, and then anchored in the Alligator River, [with no alligator sightings.]  The next day was north to Albamarle Sound.  The wind was much better than when I came south.  About half way across it, the clouds formed, and before too long rain, and then thunderstorms.

It never got too windy, and it was still fair.  Visibilllity dropped, but I was able to stay on course for the Pasquatank River. I passed thru Elizabeth City, which provides about a dozen free docks to passing boaters, but decided to keep on 'truckin', making the draw bridge on request before they stop for rush hour.

I anchored off of the ICW behind Goat Island, at five pm.  Lucky for me, there were no braying goats to be heard.  After leaving there this morning, I transitted the Great Dismal Swamp.  It was pretty cool.  Going north, the first lock raises you 8 feet.  20 miles later, another lock lowers you that and then some.  It was much nicer than the Virginia Cut, that I took on the way south last fall.  All of the fast power boats take the Cut, so you don't get rocked by a bunch of knuckle headed sportfishermen. 

The majority of power boaters slow down, but there are always a few then tempt one to man the cannon!  I will include some pictures of the 'Swamp' when I'm feeling more energetic.  A few miles up the Elizibeth River past Portsmouth and Hampton Roads, brought me to Willobougy Bay, Norfolk, where I'm anchored tonight.  Tomorrow I'll dock at Rebel Marina.

 

I made a brief stop in Beaufort, S.C. Monday afternoon.  It is what you think a southern town should look like.  Old town charm, plantation like looking homes, and huge trees festooned with Spanish Moss.  I walked two miles to the nearest grocery store  I decided on  the way, that I would grab a taxi back.  When I asked the check out girl to call one, she asked where I was going.  I told her, and she said that they provide service there.  It turned out that the stores manager drove me back.  Southern hospitality is alive and well!

On Tuesday, I stopped in Charslton to get gas, and sailed over towards Fort Sumpter, afterwards.  I had some time to kill, as the bridge that I needed to go under over the I.C.W., is closed between four and six pm.  Cindy set me straight as to the history of the forts being taken over by the South, from the Union, which was the start of the Civil War.

Today, I sailed from there to Georgetown, S.C., topped off the gas, and ancored a few miles north, in the Cypress Swamp.  Very pretty, and very buggie.  I hope to be in or very near North Carolina tomorrow night. Also, I saw an alligator swimming, no lie, in the Alligator River this afternoon.  I'm glad I have a solar shower on board. I don't want to feed Mr. Al. E. Gator!

 

   To get this up to date, I left Fort Pierce [Intracoastal Waterway mile marker 946 which is the distance from Norfolk, Va.], Monday, the 20th.  I anchored at Dragon Point, in the Banana River.  You can see what remains of a huge 100 foot green dragon, that used to mark the point, off of the Indian River.  Its all delapidated now, but looks like years ago, it would have been neat.

  The next day I got past Cape Canaveral, where I saw my first alligator on a bank soaking up some sun.  If I had any ideas of swimming here, this changed my mind about that!  I got into St. Augustine, where I  caught up with Maurice Gagnon, who I'd met on the way south.

  After a foggy start, I got as far as Fernandina Beach, where I anchored, and yesterday, to Killkenny Creek, which is mile 614.  The tides here are quite strong, which can be a help or a hindrence, depending on which way you're going.  The tidal range is almost nine feet too.  There has been 'massive gnat' attacks on Sula the past two days, so am hot to trot away from Georgia!

  

   We played tourist and visited the Elbow Cay lighthouse. It still functions by hand operated machinery, and kerosine.  The view from the top was spectacular.  Unfortuanetly, I forgot to bring the camera.  We then took the dingy back to town, where we had a walk and did more sight seeing. We found a grocery store and a boutique that were open, everything else, except for the resturants, where closed for the holiday.

   Tuesday, we sailed back to Marsh Harbor.  Cindy had an early flight out Wedesday morning.  I left later that morning, heading west.  I got to Old Bahama Bay, West End, Grand Bahama Island, Saturday afternoon.  I left there at 4:00 a.m. Sunday, and got into Fort Pierce, Florida around 7:00 pm.,  just a little over 80 miles.

   With Cindy at the helm, we went to Hopetown, Elbow Cay, and picked up a mooring.  The harbors in the out islands of the Abocos, being small, all have moorings.  In settled weather, with little wind, you could anchor, but it isn't recommended.  Poor holding due to the grassy bottom.

   We went ashore and walked around the pretty town. One of  the narrow, hilly streets, lined with tropical flowers, led us to the islands school.  We sat in the shade where the students probably eat there lunch, thinking how differant it would be teaching here!  

   After feeling like we got our exercise, we found an ocean view 'watering hole', where we quenched our thirst.  After a few 'rum bahama mommas', we went to a resturant overlooking the harbor, and had dinner.  The seafood and duck were excellant.

 

  

  

   The next Abaco Island on the to see list was M. O. W. Cay.  I missed, by one day, their first annual "Sojer Day" [the islands nickname], which was a celebration of their traditions of the island,.  That was alright, as I got to see the island without the crowd.  I spent a couple of days there, and then on to Marsh Harbor.

    Marsh Harbor was about what I had expected; not pretty like the small islands, more congessed [more cars than golf carts], but good for provisioning.  Cindy was due in on Good Friday, so got the boat ready to go.

    Saturday, we sailed over to Hope Town, Elbow Cay, and anchored next to the friends I'd met shortly after getting to the Bahamas, Walt and Maggie on Day-o, and Jackie and Larry on Whisper.  They came over to Sula to say hi, meet Cindy, and then we sailed to Tiloo Cut, where we walked the beach, found some neat shells, took a swim, and had what we refer to as Happy Hour on the beach.  Everyone brings their cocktails, and an appetizer and pleasant conversation to share.

   I left Green Turtle Cay on 4/1, and sailed over here.  It  boasts a beautiful beach on the ocean side of the island, and supposedly one of the longest reefs after the Great Barrier Reef down under, and the reefs off Belize. 

  I sat at Nippers Bar/Resturant overlooking the 'Pond' over some cold ones, and fresh grilled Wahoo for lunch, while celebrating my 60th birthday. Time does fly!  I couldn't have been in a nicer place!

   Talked to my better half today, and she told me she is flying in for easter break.  I'll be sailing over to Marsh Harbor, which is the 3rd largest city in the islands.  It should be quite a change from what i've seen so far.

 

   I flew home a week ago Saturday after catching a ferry ride from Black Sound, Green Turtle Cay, where Sula is moored.  Its by far the nicest of the islands I've seen so far, and is also the largest community I've visited.

     The town of New Plymouth has a small ferry dock where supplies are brought in for the resturants, stores, marinas, etc.  I've had no luck with the cell phone, but have been able to get online sometimes.  Am hoping to improve on this while I'm home.

   Flying out of the small airport on Treasure Cay and over the "Banks" was very pretty.  After a layover in Fort Lauderdale, flying along the  coast was nice while it could be seen.  After the plane started descending, was able to see Norfolk, and the Bay. 

    What a stark comparison to the Carribbean!  There was a few patches of snow left over from the storm of the previous week:  Bare trees, gray skies, back to New Jersey!

  

   Left West End last Saturday morning, and finally got to Green Turle Cay today.  It was for the most part a slog to windward for the 150 miles.  The Bahama Banks are truely beautiful, where their differant shades of blues, and some greens thrown in. 

   The sailing is similar to the waters of the Cheasapeake or Delaware Bays, as far as waves are concerned; [short choppy seas] except the water is clear, the bottom is visible, and there are reefs and rocks, instead of mud to look out for.  The anchorages have been really pretty.  Basically, they've been little island, where you tuck in beside away from the prevailing winds and sea.  In most other directions, it looks like you're in the middle of nowhere: only water.

  

  

   I must be on 'island time' as I'm still here at West End. Decided to wait till the next cold front passes through.  The wind is supposed to be more settled by the weekend.  It was blowing pretty good today, sw 15 k, put they're calling for more with the passage of the next front.  Its about 50 miles to the next good anchorage.

   Have been keeping active while here using the available 'amenities' of the place.  Took a bike ride into the town of West End proper.  Its seen much better days.   Apparetnly a number years back, Freeport legalized gambling, and West End didn't, which apparently killed the town.

   Old Bahama Bay is the other side of the tracks, and  seems to cater to North Americans.  I'm not complaining, the facilites are top shelf.  I've used their kayaks, bikes, pool, fitness center, and took a Hobie cat out sailing today. 

   When I first got here, someone said the rich and famous hang here.  I heard today, that this is the place the Travola's were staying when their son died.  I saw somthing on the tv when I was home during xmas, but didn't recognize the place from the footage.  Anyway, its a pretty place, and would recomend it as a getaway. 

  I left Lake Worth at four a.m  today, and arrived at West End twelve hours later.  When I got to the western wall of the Gulf Stream, the seas layed down abit.  This was an added extra.  Had a fair wind the entire day.  Took twelve hours for the passage.

   I pulled into Old Bahama Bay Marina, cleared customs, fueled up, took a shower, called Cindylou, and then took a strole around the place.  It is really nice.  It seems that an American company has taken over the joint.  Its really nice they way it is and hope the don't change it.

   Will also get a reality check when I pay my bill tomorrow.  Gas is five bucks a gallon, and water extra.  Not too bad, as this is about what it was in Bermuda back in 'eighty seven. 

   From what I've heard, the Bahamians have decided to go for the big money, instead of how it apparently used to be: geared for ones without deep pockets.  I guess that being about sixty miles from the u.s. has rubbed off.

    Anyway, hope to start cruising the Bahamas Bank tomorrow.  Its supposed to start blowing hard, so s veale may end up here for abit.

   Finally got in the water today.  It felt about the temp. of New England in the summer: chilly!  I've been seeing the growth on the bottom of the boat since being here, but didn't realize the extent of it till today.  There were entire civilizations living on her bottom.  Got about half done, and was tired fighting the current that runs through the lake.  Will finish tomorrow during slack tide.

   The weather looks like it will be good for a crossing this weekend.  The wind is supposed to clock around to the southwest tomorrow for a couple of days.  There is a weak low pressure system moving slowly through the area, and hopefully the seas will 'lay down' in the process.

   Its been a nice stay here in Lake Worth.  Jose has been a great help carting me here and there, getting the last of provisions and such.  After getting a document notorised for Kyle's new care, Jose stopped on the highway to flag down a Fed Ex truck.  Surly the driver thought us mad!

   Anyway, Sula is sporting a new Fortress anchor as part of her gear.  Too bad I don't have stock in West Marine! 

   Don't know when I'll be writing more here, as its as they say,"a whole new ball game" when I get to the Bahamas.   Happy Valentines to all! 

  Left the Intracoastal Waterway via Jupiter Inlet Monday morning, and sailed on the outside to Palm Beach.  Anchored in Lake Worth at noon. Had a north westerly breeze [fair wind], and was very nice.  Being on the ocean under optimal conditions is always enjoyable.

  The color and clarity of the water is very pretty.  Anchored in Lake Worth in 12 feet of water and seeing the bottom is a first for this trip.  Have visited my friend Jose Sasvedra, and am anchored next to his Piver trimaran, OM-EL.

  It looks like I'll be here for at least a few more days, as the weather dosn't look good for crossing the Straits of Florida, ie, the Gulf Stream. The largest river in the world is't somthing to take lightly, and I'll be the last one to say so!

  Its western border is about five miles off the coast.  Its about 25 miles wide, and has a current of about 3 knots. The wind has been out of the north which means its wind against tide and means big seas.

   I've  no desire to beat into wind and seas.  Hopefully things will calm down.

 

Left Cocoa yesterday,  with a strong north breeze helping me south.  It rained pretty well, which Florida dosn't get much of this time of year.  I anchored next to Pine Island, about five miles north of Vero Beach, and when I woke up, heard an osprey calling.  There was a large nest in a tree top next to where I was anchored.  Time to get moving again! 

   I got to Cocoa last Friday.  The Indian River is nice.  No apparemt current, the hight of water is determened by the wind.  I got alot of provisioning done with the help of Steve and Marylee while here.  We got to spend two days together, which was pleasant.

   I plan on heading south tomorrow.  The weather has been very nice, with lows in the fifties at night and in the mid seventies during the day.  Cindy said its snowing and in the twenties at home..........brrrrrrrr!

 

   Anchored near the Bridge of Lions, St. Augustine on Sunday.  The waterfront was all alight with white christmas type lights on all the buildings.  Walked around town abit Monday, hoping to visit one store in particular, but it was closed.

   Left there this a.m. and got about 30 miles further south.  I've got to keep heading south, as the weather man is calling for freezing temps tonight and tomorrow night.  Maurice was planning on heading out today too, but his shoulder was bothering him, so he decided not to.  It got near fifty degrees, but as the sun was out, so it was real warm in the wheelhouse. 

   If the calender wasn't saying its winter, the weather certainly is.  It got down to 30 degrees last night.  The temp on the boat was 42, so at least its not freezing.  I quess thats due to the water being warmer than the land.

   Got back to the boat Monday, after a great holiday at home.  Certainly miss the Mrs., though. To continue with the missing page, I missed my flight to Jacksonville, and got a ticket to Orlando, instead.  Number One son and Marylee picked me up at the airport.  Was good seeing the two of them.

   Two days ago, Maurice pulled in and anchored here in Fernadina Beach.  I asssumed that I was the slowest one getting south, but he's tied me.  We're planning on continuing south tomorrow.  The next port of call should be St. Augustine, about 60 from here. 

   As the new season begins, I want to add some thoughts to this journal.  Its been a great cruise, somwhat chilly at times, but thats to be expected.  70 degrees is the perfect temperature for me.  Tom Jones told me one time that the best place to live is in the mountains on the equater.  I think he had somthing there.  Perhaps when I grow up.....

   But in the meantime, life on the water is great.  I've missed my wife, the rest of the family, and my friends.  I've made some new ones, which is one of the biggest advantages to cruising.  Everyone along the way has been most helpful.

   I'll be hitting the road today, for Jacksonville, and tomorrow flying back home.  This seems like a good punctuation point for the trip.   

   Got to Fernandina Beach,[Amilia Island] yesterday afternoon after the fog lifted.  The town is a mix of fishing port,industry, and tourism.  I'll be leaving the boat here at the City Harbor Marina  on a mooring for abit while I go home for the holidays.  It has been in the 70's the past few days, which feels real good!

   I should have one more day to see a Georgia peach or manatee, as Fernandina Beach, Florida is only 6 miles distant.  Spent last night at Jekell Island Marina, where luck would have me arrive as the restaurant was celebrating their 15 year anniversity.

  After sampling Sea Jays Restaurant free finger food, it was time for a long hot shower, and laundry to follow.  I must say that doing ones wash with a resturant/bar a few feet away is very civilized! 

  Departed this a.m., with about 1/4 mile of visibility.  Was following a sailboat, when it turned around.  We spoke, and decided to wait a bit to see if the fog would burn off.  The boat was 'Searcher' and the captain is another Steve, and his dog Danny.

  Steve was in contact with another cruiser a few miles ahead of us, who gave us weather reports.  We motored for two hours, crossing the sound under heavy fog and swell.  Passed in shrimp boat who Steve saw first, and communicated how we would pass each other.  [note to self:  get radar!]

  When we got through the Sound, we dropped anchors, and Steve came over for lunch.  An hour later, we got a favorable weather forecast from his friend, and were off again.  Anchored at four thirty, and while I was putting a coat of antifouling bottompaint on the inflatable, got attached by knats [horrible critters that they are].  When I came into the wheelhouse and closed the curtains, abunch of dragonflys arrived, and I believe started eating the nasties, or at least I would like to believe they were.

    Left Cohen Creek, off of Beaufort River, SC this morning.  It was pretty windy, out of the north east.  I  was close to Bob and Connie on Windwalker as we had planned to sail together to St. Mary's Inlet in Florida. 

   At noon, I decided to head to Savannah instead.  I wasn't up to a 120 mile overnighter with the wind and waves so high.  In days gone by, I probably would have thrown caution to the wind.  There are some advantages to getting older.

   Bob and Connie hit a wave or two, and their engine started f**king up.  It would only run at idle.  Bob though the seas tossed the diesel and some water in the tanks around.

   Have been seeing palm trees all along the ICW, but most of those were landscaped.  Today, out in no mans land, there were palms growing in the wild.  This was taken as a good sign.  Got past Charleston by midafternoon.

    Anchored in Church Creek, ICW mile 489.  Finally feeling like old man winter isn't nipping at my heels [sterns].  Have been sailing in tandum with Maurice Gagnon, the French Canuck, I met up with before.  Have never done too much of this kind of sailing before, but its kinda nice having someone to commiuncate and share notes with.

   Also anchored here tonight is Bob and Carol, also Canadians.  For the most part, people that travel the waterway are curteous, and the powerboaters don't blast by you, leaving you rocking in their wake.  The exception to the rule seems to be the fast, gas guzzling sport fishermen.  They seem to be assholes wherever they are.

    The weather has been great, so expect this low thats coming through ought to make it wet and windy for the next day or two, and hopfully not three.   

   After leaving the anchorage yesterday, I managed to get to the New River swing bridge to find that it wasn't swingin!  This would be the second time its happened on this trip.  I got tired of sitting mid stream, and decided to tie up at the marina just before the bridge.  I got the gas cans filled, and topped off the water tanks, and four other boats followed suit. 

   After about two hours, Maurice, the guy I met a couple days ago, and I decided we would spend the night at the marina, instead of going through the bridge when it was fixed a couple of hours later.  The dockhand took us to town, where I got the empty propane tank filled, and did some grocery shopping.

   We left this morning and got through the Rockpile with no problem.  Made about thirty miles to the good.  When I saw the Spanish Moss hanging from the Cypress trees, it twas a good feeling! 

   Dropped the hook off of the "New River", yesterday, after crossing into S.C.  Have been meeting nice folks, all heading to Florida and the Bahamas. Was waved down by a guy in a double ended motorer sailer, who had gotten out of the channel, and had run aground.  I tried pulling him off, but didn't have enough power.  Looking back shortly afterward, I saw a motorboater had come to his aid. 

   We later hooked up at an anchorage over a beer.  His home port is Denmark.  Yesterday I met Maurice, who hails from Montreal, on a 29' cold moulded monohull.  I expect to see more of these guys on the trip.

   Todays leg, will be about forty miles to the next anchorage, should be interesting.  A few miles  of the ICW passes through the 'Rockpile', which is a section carved out of rock.  With rock outcroppings, strict attention to the course will be essential. 

   Have been seeing alot of dolfins, again near the inlets.  I had my camera ready to snap a picture, when a funky song came on the radio that required immediate attention, 'as in turn it the f... off!  Just as I did, a dolfin came up right next to where I had been poised the moment before. but was gone as fast as it had arrived.

   Looking in my crystal ball, I'm seeing a XM radio in my future.  The terristrial radio sucks, but the weather getting warmer, the palm trees thicker.

   With the temps down in the upper 20's-30's at night, the beer dosn't need any more refrigeration than what it gets just being in a locker in the cockpit.  Left Bourfort Tuesday afternoon, after finding out that UPS was sending the gps antenna back to where it came from.  It got to within twenty miles of me, when they decided the address was insuffcient.  Oh well, Columbus didn't have no stinkin gps chartplotter either!

  Nearing the inlet on the way to Moorehead City, saw the first dolfin of the trip, and have seen them since in the waterway, espicially near to the ocean, which, on this stretch, is real close.  I'm anchored about a quarter mile from it now, in creek that leads to an inlet.  Anchored in Spooners Creek, and did a WalMart run.  Was pushing a shopping cart back to the boat, as I wanted to take three five gallon gas cans to get filled.  Someone stopped and asked if I needed a ride.  This certainly ain't New Jersey. 

  Anyway, I declined the kind offer, as I wanted to use the shopping cart for the gas cans.  Three trips later, the panty was well stocked and the gas topped off.  Wednesday morning found ice on deck, which is always a good incentive to get south.  Made better than 55 miles yesterday, mostly heading west on this leg.  Today will be more southerly until Cape Fear, and then its due west till South Carolina.  I llke the sound of that!

   Today was a repeat of yesterday, except that a brief thunderstorm moved through.  It rained for the better part of the last two days, but its been in the 60's during the day, so who am I to complain!

   Its suppose to clear up tomorrow, so I'll finally get to go ashore, after getting some things done, and see the town.  I would like to head out on Tuesday, if the gps arrives on time.

   Pulled in here about four p. m., the harbor had many boats on moorings, which left little room to anchor.  I picked up a private mooring, and will see if it works out.  The town looks nice and will do some exploring tomorrow.

   The post office is closed till Monday, so I have the weekend off!  I've heard that its a place worth checking out, so now I have the time to do so now.  I've added a link from an article in the New York Times about Beaufort which is pretty good.

   Will keep this entry short, as I'm in the boon docks, and the signal is weak.  Have been doing fifty miles a day, which has got me to mile 153 [from Norfolk]. When when I stopped for gas yesterday, Dowry Creek, the marina's pool was still open, and I'm anchored in a creek, that looks like the segment in the movie Forest Gump, where the shrimp boats are docked.

  Yesterday morning there was ice on the decks, and fog with the sunrise.  It lifted when the sun rose abit, and made the ride through the cypress swamp, via the Pongo River very pretty.  This was a 25 mile segment of not much sign of civilization. 

   Crossing Arbamarle Sound the day before, was like riding a mechanical bull for 15 miles.  Very similar to Deleware Bay, with similar depth, and a nasty chop with a strong western breeze.  The next stop will hopefully be Beaufort, N.C.  I'm having a gps antenna ,that will interface with the laptop, shipped there, and hopefully the timing will be right.

   I left Rebel Marina yesterday morning, under a fair sky, and light southerly breeze.  Headed south on the Elizabeth River, past the Navy Base.  There were a couple of aircraft carriers, battelships, and many cruisers.  The fleet was very impressive.

  About 7 miles south, was downtown Norfolk.  It was very pretty, passing Naticus, the National Maritime Center, and the USS Wisconsin, which is the largest battelship built by the US Navy.  This is mile zero on the ICW, and Miami being 1089 miles.

   I missd the cut off for the Great Dismal Swamp, so will take it heading north next time.  It is often closed for lack of water, but not usually this time of year, with plenty of rainfall.  Instead, I took the 'Virginia Cut', which is the more direct route down the 'ditch'.

    I  went through my first lock where it raised us about a foot, the differance between the Cheasapeake Bay, and Albemarle Sound.  Got to a swing bridge at 1:30, to discover that it wasn't working.  No swinging  this day!  About a half hour later a crew got to work on it, and by 4:00 decided to spend the night at the marina in Centerville,Va.

 

   The sail on Libery was way cool.  Had a fair wind the whole way.  We motor sailed from Norfolk, up the coast untill we reached Deleware Bay.  The average speed was about 7.5 knots, till we raised  all working sail for the home stretch up the bay to the Maurice River.  We hit 11 knots, with what is called a bone in her teeth!  The 25 knots of wind we had seems to be the right amount  to get the schooner moving well.

   It took 23 hours to reach Dorchester.  It rained the whole time, but was warm.  The owner, Phillip, the captain, Bill, and the mate, Rich, are excellant sailors.  I learned a thing or three about sailing a schooner. 

   Got back to Norfolk yesterday.  Have a few things to do before leaving here Monday.  Hopefully it will warm up, as it got down to 26 this a.m.  Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr! 

   I'm crewing on the schooner Liberty, taking her to Dorchester Boat Yard, via the ocean to Deleware Bay.  It looks like its going to be the owners, the captain, deckhand, and me on board.  It should be fun, as I've never sailed on a boat her size. I've added Liberty's bookmark above 

  As it stands, we're leaving Norfolk early tomorrow morning, and should get there Saturday.  On the same trip last year on Rhiannon, I got headed off of Ocean City Maryland, and blown off shore for three days, after breaking the #1 crossbeam.  Oh, the memories! It looks like we'll have a fair southwest breeze 15-25knts, and 10 to 15 foot seas on the way, with some 'liquid sunshine" predicted, but warmer temps. 

  I was mapping it out, and from here to Cedarville its over 3 hundred 25 miles by road, and 187 to Solomans, Md., so catching a ride on the boat is helpful all round.  I finally got the rudders and crossbar fixed and back together yesterday. 

  I had a local machine make and press some delrin bushings into the xbar.  Was reassembling them with hands covered with hydralic steering fluid, when kerploop, goes a s.s sleave into the drink!  So the next day, its back to the shop to have some extra and spare sleeves made up. 

  So, no more slop in the sterring as the new bushings took care of that and should last a good long time.  It will be good seeing the wife and kids next week, and get some stuff done before resuming the run south.   

   Last night I met the captain of the schooner ' Liberty' , His name is Bill, and the owners of the boat, Phill and Sharon, from South Africa, invited me to go sailing today.  Keeping with Jimmy Buffets theory that time on the water dosn't count in the time we have on earth,  I accepted their invitation.

  The captain and I got to talking, and discovered that we had mutual friends.  Long story short, as I was departing Libery, Bill gave me his card after asking if I would be interested in crewing on Liberty next weekend, or there abouts depending on the weather, from Norfolk, to the Maurice River, near Bivalve, NJ, where she's getting hauled out, for some bottom painting, etc., before they  take her back to Jersey City, where they berth her.

  When I got back on Sula, I  read the card that Bill gave me, and discovered that Bill was Bill Noe, an old friend of Tom and Carol Jones who I met over 20+ years ago.  I walked back over to Liberty, and told Bill who I was, and we both had a good laugh over our memory laps, or lack there of.  He sure didn't look like he used to, and appartently, either do I!

   Anyway, to quote Paul Simon, tomorrow's another working day, and plan on getting the  crossbar fixed at a machine shop, and putting the steering back together, [again].  There are a few other things on the list, but I really want to get moving again. It seems that a week in one spot is about enough.  Its  hard to pry myself lose from these places, as I really love them!  Good people, good everything!

 

   Oh man, I gotta stay away from Rebel Marina! This will be my 2nd time here, and my 2nd purchase of a new boat [or two]!  yea,m actually two new boats are now in the 'VEALE FLEET.'

Last year I was actully looking foe a new boat, but this years addition was a total surprize!

   After the initial hellos and what cha been up to's, Robbiem aka Chia [as in the dumb xmas pet], said he was selling his houseboat in the Bahama islands.  I wasn't really considering it, but the thought grew on me.   I called Cindy this morning and ran the idea to her. She gave me the green light and KABOOM!Two new boats.  The big one is a 38 foot Thunderbird houseboat, the 2nd,a 15 foot RIB [rigid inflatable boat] which has a 40 hp yamaha outboard, and a center console.   

   The boats are in Green Turtle Cay, in the Abacos Islands [northern bahama]  Once again, Sula and I may not make it there this year, but thats ok.  I'm mising the wife alot so I may be an island jumper [via air] instead of sailing there. 

   I plan on getting further south though, so I'll see what destiny has in store!  To quote what Bermuda money has on it "Quo Fata Farant', ie, where destiny quides us.

  

   Woke up about midnight Wed., to the great news of Obama being elected.  Stayed up getting all the news, and watching speeches.  Good stuff.  I don't know what we did before we had the internet.  Anyway, yesterday morning I upped anchor and moved Sula to Rebel Marina. 

  Its been blowing a gale, and was glad to be docked.  Plugged in the electric, and ran the heater to dry out the boat, as she had gotten quite damp with all the rain.  Running the propane stove makes for extra condensation too.

   I borrowed Daves 'marina truck', [he lets transients and cruisers use it] and got a tarp from the hardware store, took out the front section of curtains, [windows], and put the tarp up in their place.  I'll be taking them to Mikes Marine Canvas in Virginia Beach , who made them originally, to have new plastic installed today. 

   Anchored at 15:00 yesterday, in Willoughby Bay, in front of Rebel Marina, whose owner, David Briggs, is who I bought Sula from a year ago.  Yesterday, as the day before, we had a fair wind, and a mostly downhill run.  After leaving Solomans Sunday, I started seeing peligans again, same as I had last year.  This must be the normal range for them, although we did see a couple of them on this years summer cruise.

   Its been raining all night, and is expected to rain for the next couple of days.  I may get ambitious, and get something done. One of the things a want to do while in Norfolk is to have some new plastic in the front curtains, [the canvas work and clear plastic around the wheel house].  This could be a very damp stopover!  

 

   I got back to the boat Saturday.  The weather was perfect.  Stowed the food and laundry.  Did some finale shopping, and got Sula ready to go.

   Left Solomans yesterday with an hour earlier first light.  Had to beat against a headwind getting from the Patuxent River to the Bay.  It was a pretty windy North Easterly, but had a reach most of the day.  The steering never worked so well!

   Anchored in a well proteced creek, off of Little Bay.  We're about halfway from Solomans to Norfolk, so should get there today if the weather cooperates.

     BOAT: Broke out another thousand!  The expression that a boat is a hole in the water in which you through money holds true once again.  After taking Sula out for a sea trial Thursday, the hyd. steering was still not working correctly.

   To make a long story short, there was a $2 spring, about which you can find in a ballpoint pen, that had rusted out!  Off to the hardware store we go, and bingo, after nine more hours of labor on the techs. part, we finally got it to work!  Took her out to the Patuxant River, and all was aok.

   For a few more bucks than a mooring would have cost, I rented a slip for a week here at Zanhister's.  Jennifer is driving down today, and I'll be driving back with her.  I've got a bunch of stuff to do back home, and the plan is that me and Cindy will drive back to Soloman's next Friday.  Life is good.  Time to make some ham and eggs for breakfast. 

   As the expression goes, boat stands for 'break out another thousand', once again stands true.  Don't get me wrong, if I seem to be complaining as it seems that the sterring is fixed.  I'm about to give it a sea trial to see how she works.

    The tech. at Zahniser's put in a good five hours, and handful of parts to get it fixed.  It seems that it was't installed correctly initially, as he moved a hydralic hose from an upper port, where it sucked air, to a lower port.  Will have more about this later.

    I was planning on sailing to Norfolk this week, but with this layover, that ain't happening!  Jennifer is driving down Friday for the weekend.  We'll spend the weekend here at Soloman's, and then drive home home Sunday.  I plan on leaving Sula on a mooring while I'm gone.

   Monday moring at seven a.m. saw us depart Spa Creek.  The wind was not quite as strong as yesterday, as departure was a half hour earlier, and was also more north east than east northeast, as yesterday, so it wasn't such a funky ride getting to the bay.  After rounding Tolly Point, we were able set a course south.

   Soloman's Island is forty nautical miles away.  With the engine off, and the genoa jib drawing, we were doing about six knots.  It was a nice run, with plenty of white caps, and wind about 15, with higher gusts.  The steering working fairly well.  Not great, but I had an appointment to get it looked at.

  I had met one of the electronic techs. at Annapolis, and he said they could fix the problem.  I got docked yesterday morning, tied up the boat, and got a shower.  When I came back to Sula, the tech. had already diagnosed the problem.  He had to order a part, which is supposed to be here today.  Hopfully, this will fix the problem.

  By the time the job is done, it will be too late to get underway, so its another night at the yacht center.  Not too hard to take being dockside, with electric to run the heat exhanger.  Its been in the fortys the past two nights, so the heat is right on time, as are the showers in the bath house! 

    Woke up last night, listening to the wind blowing strongly.  I got up at seven, and put the teapot on, and motored to the Spa Creek drawbridge at seven thirty.  The wind steadily picked up as I neared the bay. 

    The bay was quite 'snotty', and after about forty five minutes, I decided Solomans was not happening today.  I turned around and sailed up the Severn River, passing the Naval Acadamy, and their bridge, under the highway bridge, and then sailed back to Annopolis.

    Yesterday, I made another visit to Bacon and Asso., buying, among other things, a new drifter.  I've always found that this type of light weight sail is is essential to keep moving when the wind is light. The genoa jib is a working sail, and made of much heavier cloth.  the drifter is light weight ripstop nylon, as is the spinnaker.

     I finally hoisted the spinnaker that came with Sula the other day, and it seems to be on the smallish side, but compared the the 1000 square foot spinaker I had on Rhiannon, it seems to be more likly to be used more often as it won't require as much work to handle. 

    I anchored in the outer harbor, made lunch, and watched the the dingy races going on.  After about an hour of rock and rolling, Sula decided to drag her anchor and headed for Spa Creek.  I think she likes it smooth and calm, as does her captain.  Anyway, rush up on deck, pull up the anchor, and head for Spa Creek.  Anchored for the night, let er blow.  It will be a chilly night, as north east wind is bringing in some colder temps.  It could be a two dog night!

  

 

   Its been a great week here.  To back track, I anchored in Spa Creek last Friday.  I motored over to Back Creek, about two miles away, and spent Wed. night at Bert Jabins Yacht Yard.  I had a new pump installed for the a.c. unit.

   Yesterday, I sailed out to see the start of The Chesapeake Schooner Race.  I will be posting pics of same.  "The Norfolk Rebel" [a tugentine; ie. a tug boat with a schooner rig] was on station at the starting line.  She was captioned by Steve Briggs, David Briggs'  brother [who I bought "Sula" from].

   I spoke to Ann and Nev aboard "Peace" who dropped out of the race before it started.  The race will finish at Portsmouth, Va., today.  Its about 120 n. miles from here.  I told them that I will see them at the 'Wharram Sail In' to be held the following weekend in Norfolk.

   I plan on leaving here tomorrow, as the wind and tide will be fair to make Soloman Island, about forty miles south.  I have an appointment to have my auto pilot looked at there.  As the saying goes: BOAT=  break out another thousand!

 

   I woke to a pleasant warm and dry northly breeze.  After a couple cups of tea, toast, and a bowl of cereal, it was time to head south:  Destination Annapolis.  Pulling up the anchor I discover that Sula has other plans for the morning. 

   We are aground, so into the water [gladly it was not cold].  Walk around the boat making sure there are no obstructions under her.  Seems like its all hard sand.  So I grab the brush and get cleaning her bottom.  When I was in Greenwich, I noticed that the bottom needed to be cleaned.

   After completing that chore, its time for a cup of tea and play around on the internet.  The reception for the sprint aircard is fine here, but almost nothing on the verizon cell phone. 

   I'v discovered that the latest entry goes ahead of the last entry, so this seem bass ackwards.  Oh well, what do you want for nothing.  So taking advantage of 'boat time', I will make some lemonaid out of lemons.  [Thanks Suze for reminding me of that one].  When you're living on a 27'x13' boat, neatness and organization are right up there on the list.  Housekeeping is the order of the day!

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   I left Cedarville Monday afternoon, when the tide was fair.  I got to Greenwich, and docked at Hancock Harbor.  Spent the night there, and left two hours after the flood tide started.  Transiting the C and D Canal, I saw an eagle swoop down and catch a fish.  Pretty cool.  I anchored at sunset off the Elk River, in the Bohemia River for the night.

   Wednesday found a fair tide and a nice sunrise.  Got to Tolchester, and decided to take it easy as the wind was on the nose, and picking up. Beating into the wind is my least favorite point of sail!  They don't call it beating for nothing!  I called them up and got a slip for the night, and a long, hot shower.

   I left Tolchester about ten a.m., and sailed across the bay.  Pretty nice.  Saw a large schooner sailing over to where I was heading: the Patapsco River.  She was the Mystic Whaler, out of New London, Conn.  I assumed she was heading to Baltimore.  I got some pictures of her, [see the schooner at the top of the site.] and then changed course down the bay abit to Locust Cove, off of Bodkin Creek to anchor for the night.  Very nice spot.

  Happy birthday to Jackson Brown, Shawn and John Lennon! 

In Memory of Stevie (Stephen Charles Veale)

I made this Video so all who knew Steve and Loved him can watch it and relive some of the great times we got to spend with him. I miss ya Bro