(Eric working on 1st set of solar panels)
The transition is going well and we have made a lot of progress toward getting the boat ready for delivery to Louisiana.
- The roller furling Genoa is on the fore stay and rolled up nicely.
- 2 sets of solar panels are installed, hooked up and generating 500 watts.
- The new panels for the bimini were finished in record time and they fit great!
- The new name 'Far Horizons' and 'Green Cove Springs' hailing port is on the stern.
- Eric replaced the impeller on the engine and has been spending time learning the systems on the boat and purchasing necessary gear and parts.
- The old anchor windlass is in working order and should make the delivery trip. It will be replaced with a brand new, updated windlass once we get back to Louisiana.
- Mary continues to deep clean the lockers, cabins and wood throughout the vessel while learning the storage areas.
- Provisioning and last minute supplies have been stored for the upcoming delivery.
We are turning the rental car in today but if unexpected needs arise, Uber is available. Tentative departure will be after Labor Day. At this time, Tropical Storm 'Dorian' is still very unpredictable concerning landfall and is expected to reach hurricane force. Our current location is safe for riding it out and we are well versed in hurricane preparation on boats.
Please be in prayer for the following:
- Securing a vessel for a hurricane is hard work. We will know how extensive preparations need to be at least a day or two before landfall if it comes in very near or over us. Pray for wisdom, peace and physical stamina.
Thank you for praying!
(Eric wrestling the Main)
It has been an exhausting three weeks since our last update. We finished moving off the ship in record time, cramming as much as possible into three 5x10 storage units. The last of the heavy shop tools were taken off the ship and stored in our small utility trailer. We appreciate the heavy lifting help from two wonderful, strong brothers. There is no way we could have done it without you. Thank you Caylon and Yani!!
The last large items were stored in the back of our pick-up and in the front seats, which was then parked along with the utility trailer in a safe spot near our reserved, future slip. Our new slip will be in the marina next to the one where the ship was docked. When we return to Louisiana the ship will most likely be on the way to its new home. Very difficult emotionally but we are prayerfully moving on with God's guidance.
We crammed the rental SUV to maximum and as Eric put it, "we looked like a kid moving away to college!" We left Louisiana on the 11th and arrived in Ft. Pierce, Fl. on the 12th. After several disoriented days, lots of paperwork and a few struggles, we are now settling into the new vessel.
- The vessel needs to be well cleaned inside and Mary has been making good headway. Interior pictures will be posted soon. The galley has very deep fridge and freezer boxes. The cooling system needs a touch-up but will wait till we get her home.
- There are two temporary AC units. A small window unit in the hatch of the aft cabin and a portable unit in the main salon. We are going to slowly acclimate ourselves to the heat as there will be no AC once we leave the country. However! One thing I specifically prayed for, was a vessel with excellent cross ventilation. There are numerous opening ports and overhead hatches throughout the boat for excellent ventilation. Thank you Lord!
- The cockpit enclosure is up and will provide fantastic shelter from the elements. Two of the enclosures' front, clear, strataglass panels needed to be replaced. We hired a local canvas worker and the new panels should be ready in two weeks.
- We have put window film for privacy on 7 of the 12 opening ports so far.
- The Mizzen and Main sails are now installed on the booms.
- The vessel will gets its new vinyl name 'Far Horizons' on Thursday.
Please be in prayer for the following:
- Wisdom for Eric as he learns the systems on the boat.
- Strength, stamina and good health for both Eric and Mary.
Thank you so much for your continued prayers!!
