The JADE PRINCESS

 

I have the privilege of serving aboard the Jade Princess, a MV bound for St. Petersburg, FL.  Captain Gordon asked me to help crew aboard this 78 ft. Pluckebaum boat being delivered to the owner.  My crew mate is Thadeus a 23 yr. old man having served with Captain Gordon in a prior delivery.  We seem to be making a good crew after learning the habits and sailing plan of our captain. 

We are currently in the “ditch” as the upper portion of the Tom Bigbee Waterway is known.  We have a voyage of about 1,100 nm to our destination.  We experienced strong currents the first 200 miles but not are on the downward leg of the river portion.  Cruising now at 10 knts. The boat is performing admirably. 

We are making about 60 to 90 miles per day with the limited amount of sunlight.  Due to the debris in the river we are not cruising past dark.  The boat has twin Caterpillar diesels and a somewhat flat bottom.  We will experience some roll when crossing the Gulf to St. Pete.  The boat handles well with a bow thruster and twin engines.  We will transit 11 locks to Mobile Bay.  We hope to get a push from the current below the first lock at Whitten Dam.  We are burning about 13.5 gal. per hour which includes the on board generator.  This is actually an economic burn. 

Not many people would enjoy our cruising speed, however, I have friends who comment wishing they could have this experience.  I just tell them they can with a commitment and that all precious commodity of “time”.  I am fortunate to have a very patient wife, Denise, who shares my passion for travel and accommodates my adventures. 

I will try to find the time to update the blog after this long absence.  I am trying to establish another blog on word press but stumbling around the site.

Happy sailing all.

Aboard

Jade Princess

At Columbus, MS.

THE JOY OF THE JOURNEY

Almost as an afterthought, this summer cruise was created.  Denise, needing some time away from the grind of work, meetings and all the stresses associated with these demands, prompted her idea for a cruise.  Hence, the journey.

 

As we have traveled for several years, we discovered the most rewarding part of “travel” is the journey not necessarily the destination.  We rediscovered this portion of travel during our recent cruise.  Now keep in mind this type of travel, cruising, is not for all.  But if you want to spend every waking moment in the company of your spouse or loved one, this can be a journey of discovery. 

 

Our star ship is a 30 year old trawler, 36 ft. in length and 12.5 ft. beam (wide). Now if the boat was square, which it is not, we would have 450 SF of living area.  However, this living area is estimate at about 300 SF.  Probably the size of a typical bedroom.  However, we have a spacious bridge and sundeck to augment our living area.  In fact, except for sleeping, we spend much more of our day on the bridge than in the cabin. 

 

During this voyage we determined to NOT travel long days, say 50-60 miles which at our speed requires an 8-9 hour cruise.  Instead we planned to cruise 20-30 miles most days in time to anchor for an evening swim, adult beverages and dog entertainment. This planned has proven a success.  Our cruise did include a wonderful visit from friends who journeyed to Clarksville, TN to meet us for dinner.  Now those are friends. We docked at the Clarksville Marina on our upriver portion. 

 

Our first afternoon or day I should say was a WORK day. We had to provision the boat and this required several long walks from the vehicle to the boat pushing a cart loaded like a Pack Mule.  I was the pack mule.  We you try to prepare for 7 days and nights floating aboard 0 Regrets, one must prevision thoughtfully.  Now our boat has certain limitations on storage, thus an imagination is required.  Food flexible enough to serve as breakfast, lunch, snack and in a crisis dinner.  Dogs must be prepared for as they are part of the crew.  A bit of food, snacks, play ball and of course our dog ramp is all they really require.
 

After a quick stop overnight on the hook at Prizer Point, the real cruise began late morning the following day.  This required about a 30 mile upriver cruise to Ft. Donaldson and Hickman Creek embayment.  We discovered this bay last year and it is almost a hidden jewel of an anchorage.  After passing the entrance at depth of 6-9 ft. we are rewarded with an expanse of a bay with Donaldson Fort on the south side and just a couple boat ramps on the north.  No dwellings are visible along the shore. We anchored at 12 ft. depth and commenced the afternoon ritual of doggy swimming. That’s right our pampered pets retrieved a ball and swam out to Denise for a ride of the Admiral’s Barge (float).  The temp was very warm therefore, the cooling waters helps wash away the “trials” of the day.  This cruising is tough!
 

As is typical of our daily cruise, evening required some adult beverages while the gourmet chef prepared an always excellent meal.  No hot dogs here.  Crusted chicken breasts, some type of salad I cannot pronounce with on boat made dressing and of course an excellent red wine.  We do have a gas grill on the bridge which sees its share of use.  Sundown brings time to rest for tomorrow is another arduous cruise.

We planned to dock at the Clarksville Marina which we would recommend to all boaters. The design of the facility is excellent for a river marina and the staff are more that helpful.  We were assigned a covered slip which provides relief from a burning sun. It is summer you know.  We also recommend the Liberty Park Grill which is located just off the marina for a wide menu, good service and a river view.  We plan to return here on the down river portion of our cruise. 

Part of the journey include a bit of exploration.  We have not cruised above Clarksville, TN (upriver is always up).  We had considered Nashville as a destination but docking downtown without some security and our past visits did not entice us.   We instead planned to lock up at the Cheatum Dam and explore a portion of the Harpeth River. The Harpeth River is truly a great anchorage.  We were tipped about this anchorage by our good friend and fellow cruiser Doc.  Anchored in 12 ft. of water near high bluffs with the only noise being fish jumping and the wood peckers.  Again, time for the doggy swimming with some adult supervision. 

I am stopping this latest entry as we are planning the voyage to Pensacola. I will See you on Channel 16.

thanks for you attention. 

SUMMER MUSINGS

After a long absence from the Blog, I venture back into the abyss.  I continue to consider creating another blog with our new passion, Sailing.  I say sailing meaning to sail our trawler in hopes of new adventures.  We continue to market our motorhome and plan to relocate to Lake Barkley (Cumberland River) for our land based location.  

As might be expected when sailing a 30 year old boat, maintenance and repairs are an important part of the year.  While our Albin trawler remains in good condition, sometimes things just break. We seem to be pretty good at breaking things.  While I am not accomplished in boat repair I am attempting to learn the routine maintenance.  This does require repeated attempts to bend this old body like a your midget to rear certain bolts, valves etc.  There have been occasion where I had the thought that my heirs might find my body in the bilge wedged between a manifold and batteries.  Maybe a safety harness would help extract the body?  

One of your major repairs this year is the windlass.  That's right the wince that launches and retrieves the anchor. Having destroyed the original windlass, we searched world wide for a replacement. This came from a tip on Trawlers for Trawlering email string and has lead us to the solution.  We have been retrieving the anchor by hand, legs, back and will.  This can bring you to a challenge.

I left this post some time ago.  Now I am preparing for the great exploration South to the Florida panhandle.  So I will end this post in hopes of continuing to greater waters and more quality posts.

Captain Barry



 

VACATION LESSONS LEARNED

During this vacation on an island, Manasota Key, Florida certain realities have presented themselves.  YUCK.  While I think of myself as a realist I enjoy the wandering imagination fostered by my dear mother.  Reading those wonderful mysteries as a boy continues to bring me much joy.  I find that while on this island, each visit, I imagine writing stories, books and hoping for that allusive moment when I am propelled along with my imagination.  I have been guilty of being "full of shit" and I am starting to enjoy that handle.

Above is the Lock & Key Bar

Scene of UK Victory

 

Some of the changes I noticed on this island trip do not have anything to do with the island but with my experience here on this latest visit.  We have ventured to Manasota Key for about 10 visits over the years, with and without children in tow.  While walking the beach today I began listing some changes;

10 years ago:                                                     Today: 
 towels, flip flops, kid stuff                                  umbrella,beer,chairs, bag,sunscreen
 three boys                                                         beach bag, cell phone

running on beach, splashing                              sitting in chairs under umbrella, beer, doing 
water, fishing till dark                                          beach shuffle(shell hunting)

digging for sand fleas, falling off                          cereal, coffee breakfast, work on laptop, 
skimeboards, fishing till dark,                              quiet walk on beach, miss our dogs,
eating anything.

Well you might get the idea.  Age does seem to change the island routine.  Not really a bad thing just a realization of mine on this island visit. 

I do seem to give the island time more appreciation.  During my earlier life the work load was so great it took a week to relax.  Now that my schedule is more sedate, I enjoy each day here without the dread of returning to a grind. 

View from the beach our first evening.  We do expect this all week. Beats snow and 0 degrees recently experienced in Kentucky.

We are staying in new digs for us. We typically rent a condo for the stay but during the high season rentals are limited.  However, we lucked into this duplex cottage and have a great and private beach access.  More than enough room for a couple and within walking distance of many island activities. 

Well our arduous activities with continue tomorrow. Quietly enjoying the island life prior to sailing aboard 0 Regrets. We have scoped out a local marina for our visit aboard and plan a stay here in coming years. 

Happy sailing,

Adm. Denise, Capt Barry, Deckhands Bailey and Bella

                                                                                                                                                

SPRING UPDATE

In a previous post I outlined the Galley Refit.  Well due to the lovely weather we have experience along the shores of Lake Barkley, things have slowed.  However, progress has been made and the project continues.  I say this at the risk that parts of the
project have changed. 

A pleasant view during the Summer Season 

Snowy and COLD view during February 2014.  Enough Said!  Let's hope this is gone and Spring has arrived.

The original plan called for removal of the existing countertop and construction of the hard surface top.  However, after several consultations(in KY that is talks) with 2 contractors, the risk of damage to the existing cabinet(teak) has altered my plan. I made the executive decision to keep the existing countertop and cook top range. This will not result in damaging the cabinets. 

I have removed the existing appliances, microwave and old ice maker.  In this effort I did discover two (2) 110 volt plugs behind the microwave which was for the ice maker and microwave.  It is good to know these can be available for later uses.  This effort created a large amount of storage space which we badly need.  Long range cruises require dry good storage and most trawlers of our vintage, 1985, lack such space. 

The revised plan with a little modification, to install louvre cabinet doors with possibly an additional shelf in the larger cabinet.  This does require some modification of the opening but my limited skills can complete this requirement. As previously written, the new microwave will be installed in a box toward the bow.

Spring Cruise Plan:
As has become the custom in recent Springs, I will be "the Captain" of a cruise with good friends.  Spring break for my friends is 2nd week of April and we typically cruise up river the Tennessee River.  This Spring my crew will join me at Clifton, TN for cruising "new" water. It is a journey of spring break out, seeing teenage boys change to young men and keeps the Captain fresh.  

The purpose of the "new" water sail plan is to introduce the crew to the wonders of transiting a Corp. of Engineer's Lock. We will lock up the Pickwick Dam to Pickwick Lake and later transit the Wilson Lock, a 93 ft. lift to Wilson Lake. This lock is the highest lift East of the Mississippi River.    As much travel occurs on the Tennessee River, very few people get to experience locking through a dam .

The journey will take most of 2 weeks and is never long enough. We continue to make plans for sailing South to Florida and beyond and prepare 0 Regrets for the journey.  Better come along with us to enjoy the adventure. 

Happy Sailing,

Adm. Denise, Capt Barry, Deckhands Bailey and Bella  

HARD TO BE A DOG!

As I sit by the fire on this wet and cold winter day, surrounded by our two best friends, Bailey and Bella, I realized, it is hard to be a dog. 

Today offered some examples. 
1. Potty time.  Now today it is wet, cold and just plain yucky. But the girls must venture forth at 7 am for potty time.  Now, I know this does require some smell time but give me a break!  Would you want to walk outside barefooted at 7 am to potty? 

2. Breakfast time:  Now the girls do not have to cook, but cold, dry food in a bowl?  No warm oatmeal here.  No bacon and eggs(unless we feed them during brunch).

3. Medicine time:  Now I have to consume a number of pills daily due to my increasing age(medicare you know).  But Bailey and Bella have to endure some real embarrassment when visiting the Vet.  You know like the temperature taking experience. I used to see a Vet for my medical care but learned the thermometers taste funny!  Even a grooming requires some expression of glands, akin to the prostate exam men endure. How unlady like.  Consuming the pills does required some tasty cheese. 

4. Car Travel: Now we all use our seat belts, right?  Well our girls just have to hack it.  I mean I know they make some new fangled seat belts for dogs but sometimes they just risk it. Sitting up in front, no car seat here, Bailey likes the view.  Bella loves to hang out the window but little one could go flying.  Hitting the brakes typically sends occupants, Bailey and Bella into the dash or back seats, but they only lost two teeth last year.  Now they go "barfff barfff!  What a cute lisp.

5. Sleep:  Now all dogs are expert at napping. But what could we expect.  We require them to sleep on the floor, mats, beds, boat decks, couches, chairs etc.  No temperpedic for this rough crowd.  Then after a rough night on the floor, who could blame them for lounging most of the day on the couch.  Hell, most of us wish we could accomplish the same.  Well, I do have some noon day naps. 

6. Food:  Now that is a treat!  Not really.  Dogs just have to eat what they are provided or what they can kill.  Now, Bailey will eat an anvil if nothing else is available.  Bella on the other paw, is a bit picky.  But dry food in a bowl on the kitchen floor is not your haute cuisine.  Treats are special, but dispensed after a good potty break(rain, snow, wind and hail).  So, the next time you feed your best friend, think of their trials at the table. 

Well enough about a dog's life for the time being. I need to potty, eat a snack, take a nap and find my medication for this evening.  After all, I am the "Captain".

All aboard 0 Regrets with
Adm, Denise, Capt. Barry and deck hands Bailey and Bella 

 

WINTER BOAT PROJECTS

While lounging around the lake home, watching the wind and sun play on the Cumberland River, one begins to fantasize about the coming cruising season.  My failure is cruising through web sites for boat refitting.  You know, those with unlimited funds to refit the true Yacht.  However, I have been known to steal a few ideas along the way. 

Small projects involve some teak repair and refinish.  Like scratch and patch areas damaged during cruising and locking up or down to areas along the river.  This type of repair has been well displayed on these pages and need no further explanation.  However, while experiencing a cold winter my feeble mind plays tricks.  I think I am capable of a larger project.  Ta Da!  The galley refit!

The picture above is our current galley counter top. Not in bad shape but original to the boat, 30 years ago.  We plan to replace with a solid surface, similar to stone.  We will keep the teak cabinets, of course. 

 

We will remove the microwave. The cooktop is above the microwave but will also be replaced. The old ice maker will hit the drink in order to create more food storage space.  We plan to replace the open cabinets with stained doors to complete the look.

 

 

The current debate is a 2 burner, electric cook top or induction hobs which can be stored when not in use. I think the maker of the new counter top will be the deciding opinion.  The microwave/convection unit will be moved to a wood box near the end of the cabinet.  This is shown above.  Yes I stole the idea. Shoot me.  Again, this opens more storage space for the galley.  We do like to eat. 

 

 The galley refit will include: DEMOLITION

1). Remove old counter top
2). Remove damage teak veneer under windows
3). Remove old microwave
4). Remove old ice maker
5). Remove 2 burner cook top

Refit:
1). Install new hard surface counter top
2). Add shelving under counter after microwave removal
3). Construct box for microwave/convention oven storage
4). Stain and Install new louvered doors on cabinet

OK, that is a summary of the galley refit, as planned. Of course plans may change.  The project is always subject to finances and the whims of Admiral Denise.  Stay tuned.

Happy Sailing,
Capt Barry, Adm. Denise and deckhands Bailey and Bella

REFLECTIONS ON 2014

I have relented and decided to reflect on 2014.  Not an important or especially unique task but seems I have some "reflections".

I really do not remember the beginning of 2014, I think I was reasonably sober but maybe just bored.  My first thought about 2014 is really a after thought about 2013.

It seems I wished and planned to begin our Great Loop Cruising in October 2013.  Now, this was a wish more than a plan but I wanted it to become a reality.  Alas, this did not happen and I resolved myself to wait ANOTHER year for this journey to begin.  You see, I have somewhat of a fatalistic nature and just know that I have an opportunity to have my last adventure and I also see the opportunity for it to disappear.  Hopes have arisen and let us hope it is not just hope.

Now about 2014.  I realized I wanted to slow down my workload in order to spend more time afloat and enjoying 0 Regrets.  Well this did happen by default. It seems I do not like assignments from AMC'S(appraisal management companies) in that they try to run your life.  NOT!  My schedule is set by my Administrative Assistant, Bailey(4 legged dog) and myself.  Well, I fired at least two AMC's this 2014 and feel better about that.  So, my professional life seems good and in control.  If it becomes uncontrolled, that would be my fault.  

Cruising began with my good friend Joe Collins and his son Noah. Another young sailor joined use but I do not remember his name.  Must not have made a good impression.  This has become an annual spring break cruise and is looked forward to all year. 2014 found us anchoring and enjoying a good storm with a tornado passing nearby.  No harm to us or 0 Regrets, just a bit of fun. The cruise was a bit short due to schedules (their's not mine) but fun was the order of the day. The Captain had ordained that mood when the lines were loosed that first morning. We do plan another cruise in 2015 seeing new water for the crew. We shall see.

Denise and I planned several cruises during the 2014 sailing season. We enjoyed many evenings anchored along the shores of Kentucky Lake and Tennessee River. We first cruised up the Cumberland River with Clarksville, TN as our destination. This was a bit of a test in that I wanted to cruise to the headwaters of the Cumberland in 2014.  But, after this test we found the Cumberland River a bit boring with little to see or enjoy in the few harbors.  We did enjoy the cruise to Clarksville and the new marina but just could not get excited about cruising further.  We may change our minds in the future as our waters become a bit more familiar and repetitive.

2014 found us enjoying our "new" lake home for the first full year. The transformation of condo 4B was complete and now we could enjoy the fruits of our labors and $$$.  With this wonderful view of the Cumberland River (Lake Barkley) you just never know what will cruise by.

Truck,barge,boat

Belle Riverboat

River Cruise Ship

The above are floating "things" as seen along the river. The Belle and River Cruiser passed our lovely lake condo. Cruising the Tennessee River brings more adventure and "sights".

Lovely Wooden Yacht

65 Ft. Yacht Grand Harbor

Nina and Pinta sailing KY Lake

Nina & Pinta Captains



 

The above are just a few of the sailing vessels we encountered along our way this season. The boats are as endless as are the characters we met along the way.  The exciting part of cruising are the characters we meet along the rivers. They vary from the minimalist persons to the yacht captains.

Daughter Rebecca Cruising

Clifton Marina Crew
Man on right paddling kayak to Knoxville, TN
Gene in rear is marina owner


Tommy is a local cruising buddy and Bella is the trusty companion. Doc is a great cruising friend except he flirts with Denise.  Well he is an old guy. 



 

Doc & Denise Dancing

Tommy & Bella



Lloyd and Bella

Lloyd is a good cruising companion even if he is a lawyer. Bella only bit him twice.  She chases ambulances for him.

Well we have more characters met along the way but they will be included in an additional post. Needless to say, we had a good cruising year with much help from our deckhands(Bailey and Bella) and sailors along the way.

Happy Sailing to all in 2014.

Capt. Barry
Adm. Denise
Deckhands Bailey and Bella

 



NOT A VICTIM

NOW THIS IS A VICTIM!

This old, white guy is not a victim.  It has occurred to me in recent years that some of our brethren feel all of us are victims of something or someone. Now if we are playing house and you want to tie me you up, then voluntary victimization can be a reality.  Just don't tie the knots real tight! 

But in everyday life I think we encounter very few "victims".  As defined by Webster;
  a person who has been attacked, injured, robbed, or killed by someone else
: a person who is cheated or fooled by someone else

: someone or something that is harmed by an unpleasant event (such as an illness or accident)

 

As an opinionated, non-victim, I disagree with some other definitions found in Webster, but that is my liberty.  Of course, many people fit the above definition and I would submit many of these "events" cannot be avoided. Now if you are a victim in that your spouse "cheated", I cannot agree.  Sure it may hurt but you can control many aspects of that condition.  Just get over it. 

 

I started this essay(I like that word) having found this "victim" stuff rolling around in the orb on my shoulders.  Not that may really care about my opinion.  Hey, maybe I am a victim.  Maybe being ignored or having your opinion ignored creates a victim.  WOW, we can all qualify.  There we are, back to the definition.

 

How about the "working poor"?  Some would call them victims, maybe of our society.  Hummm, that does not compute with my calculator.  Have we not always had "working poor".  I think we used to call them struggling.  Nothing wrong with a struggle, it can make you strong and pull you up.  Many parents have help more than one job while educating their children, putting food on a table and retaining the dignity of work and the struggle.  They do not and did not feel they were victims.  I would put forward we have the "poor" who receive their government determined benefits but remain a contributing citizen and work.  That does not, in my un-humble opinion, make them a victim.  I doubt they truly feel like a victim.

 

Now, warning here, there will be more to this topic.  It remains my belief that my readers can only take so much ranting.  I will always accept your opinions to my essays, just post them here for all to read.  I promise not to feel like a VICTIM!

 

As always, 

Barry 

WINTER BOAT FUN

During the winter months, ugh, boat fun continues. No, you don't just winterize and sit in front of the fire.  I do that some but once a Captain always and Captain.  During the winter months it is time to work on teak, bright work and interior teak.
I do enjoy this type of work and I am learning the process.  One of my first tasks this winter is applying a clear coat to the stained teak.  The temp must be 50 deg. or higher and no pollen in the air. I have stained small areas which were chaffed during the cruising months and now the protective coat is applied.  

 This photo gives a good indication of the teak cap rail and handrail adjacent to the natural teak deck.  I have applied a 2nd coat since this photo. The teak decks get a cleaning in the spring but never, never put any stain or oil on these decks.  I do not have a full time crew to maintain teak decks.

This rather unique hatch has always caught my eye. We do not usually have it uncovered, but we have had some good compliments on the "shippy" look of this hatch.  Fortunately the hatch is in good condition with no rust on the metal parts.  The hatch is located over the cutty cabin in the bow of the boat.  Typically used for ventilation and an escape hatch in case of an emergency. 

This is a view of 0 Regrets 2 years ago when we painted the bottom and hull.   We still plan to paint the cabin and bridge, hopefully in the coming year.  Spring would work except for the flying pollen. Maybe early summer will be a good time for more painting.  The next project will be working in the galley to upgrade appliances and counter top.

 

More to come as the winter projects continue.  All improvements are geared to long range sailing.  Our happy ship will sail us to many locations on rivers, gulf, seas and permit us to explore living on the water.  Please come along for the sail.

 

Happy Sailing,

Barry, Denise, Bailey and Bella

aboard 0 Regrets

I do not give a Damn!

In my previous post, I discussed my current attitude of "not giving a damn".  Well, that has not changed.  However, I had an "ununique" (not a new English word) thought.  What do I really care about.  No, that is not all the tragedies around the world, I am not trying to right all the wrongs.  But I do have a few items of caring. 

Now, I am called selfish, self centered, maybe egotistical and sometimes maniacal.  Sounds like a good horror movie, don't you think?  Well, I got over it!  

I do care about my life as I choose to live it.  I do not care if you dislike my opinions.  I care about finding that elusive place or character who makes me smile or shed that tear.  Yes I can cry.  I do not really like to be alone for extended periods, but I can tolerate it.  I do find I like myself. 

I no longer care about Christmas decorating.  Not that I ever did.  I do not need shining lights or manger scenes to brighten my day.  I do embrace my views of Lake Barkley, the shine on teak bright work on 0 Regrets and the laugh of my loving wife, Denise.  So, hang those icicles from you roof, inflate the Santa, reindeer(Rudolph) and manger scenes in your yard and enjoy.  I do not give a damn!

I care about my schedules, work and personal, for my time is important to me.  I do not care about your schedules.  My time is important and I will enjoy that time.  I do not share the importance of trivial events, i.e. birthdays, decorating, your grandchild's first birthday, new recipes, new cars, trains, planes and public transit.  I do like boats, RV's and the people who navigate the earth and waters.  These characters have character.  They tend to see the world through nature's eyes not cluttered with all the seemingly important crap. 

On the light side, I love our dogs!  They, unlike me, do not judge.  Much!  I would suggest you step out of that office, coal mine, train, truck, car that your are circling the earth aboard and set your own schedule.  There comes a time! Find that time and cut that "string" above your head.  .

But that is just my opinion.

Well enough said, Happy Sailing.
aboard 0 Regrets


  

No Longer Do I Give a Damn

0 Regrets 

Unlike my typical blog post, this is not a travel post.  While the winter months are upon us I have had time to reflect on my attitude.  I find that it has changed in the past couple of years.  Imagine that, turning 65, freedom of travel and the realization life can be very short.  This is where I normally post a picture of nature or our travel location, but this is now where I rant!

I am not much into politics.  I do sometimes about CNN coverage and wonder who invented FOX News.  This is one of the moments when "I just don't give a damn"!  Now I have moments where I really care but sometimes it is just an act.  You know, when someone worries about the state of this or that.  Well, I just "don't give a damn". 

That attitude may seem like a cop out but it was a realization to me in the past couple of months that this brings a freedom.  If you do not give a damn, then you do not have to make any decisions or a stand on some issue.  Really, in most situations no one wants to hear my opinion.  I tend to be a bit cynical, imagine that!  Really? 

I find my wants are limited to a few conditions.  Like my travel plans, new home at Barkley Lake and cruising with my lovely wife. Most other things are just things.  I imagine I have maybe 20% of my life span left to enjoy. So, get with it.  This leads back to the "I don't give a damn" attitude.  Get another glass of wine you fool.

If you really think about things, all those "needs" seem small in comparison to traveling, seeing all the "sights" as my mother used to say. You know they do not put luggage racks on hearses.  When I can set my heading south to the unknown of saltwater sailing, that "don't giver a damn" attitude will be in full blossom.  I will "give a damn" when the boat runs aground, or the bottom needs painting or something breaks.  But that is my "damn" and not guided by anyone else.   Rant, Rant, Rant.  But, that is my decision not guided by the wants of society or some monetary pressure.

Do I see a "theme" developing here?

But that is just my opinion!

Happy Sailing

 

DOWN EAST - ROAD TRIP

We have not attempted a "road trip" in several years.  However, in order to attend our nephew's wedding in Easton, Md. the cruise aboard 0 Regrets would require many months.  Nephew and finance' would not agree to postpone the wedding.  Therefore, a road trip ensued to Maryland. 
Fortunately, this area on the Chesapeake Bay offers a sailor's paradise and unlimited boats to view. 


The above map is the location of our Road trip.  Click on the pins to get description of the locations.  The route from Lexington, VA. up through the Shenandoah Valley is a great mountain trip.  You can drive the Skyline Road along the mountains if you have the time. 

The above view is a bed & breakfast Victorian suffering from one of the highest tides in recent memory.  The back yard flood was receding but continued to require wading to local restaurants and maritime museum. 

The above lighthouse was removed from the original and placed at the maritime museum for the public to view.  All the original houses have been replaced but a tour of this portion gives a good view of the conditions under which the housekeepers lived.  Also a good view of this bay. The museum is located at St. Michaels, MD only 10 miles from Easton, Md. on the east side of the Chesapeake Bay. 

The above is a small, all wood boat.  Actually about 14 ft. long with a bow looking more like a pilot boat.  The workmanship is first class.

A wood row boat with flowery decoration.  Again the quality of the workmanship is excellent.  Almost all boats in the show are built by locals from all wood materials. 

The view above is Main Street at Annapolis, Md. looking toward waterfront.  All historical buildings used for retail, restaurants and housing.  A great walking town, even to the Naval Academy.  If you visit, DO NOT MISS the noon muster and tour of the academy.

This is a view of the court house in Annapolis.  The view in the evening was stunning and I could not resist.  Now on to the Academy.

I could not get the total muster formation in the frame. They muster each noon prior to their meal with 4,000 cadets dressed in their daily work uniform.  They all eat in one mess hall and are allowed only about 20 minutes to eat.  Also, all cadets live in the same dorm building which is comprised of eight wings. 

Not the best exposure but this is Memorial Hall which we toured. By the way, our tour guide was a retired Navy Captain (4 striper) aviator.  He graduated from the Academy in 1965 and earned wings in 1967.  He served in the same VP squadron I was attached after my Vietnam tour.  Small world. 

 

the view above is the entrance to memorial hall. this building is used to memorize those cadets who have lost their lives in service of their country.  A special place for all veterans. 

 The historic slogan for all sailors.  The dying command of the Captain of the USS Chesapeake in 1813.  Later on the battle flag of the USS Niagara.  Another part of Naval History.

The above pic is the crypt of John Paul Jones buried in a tomb below the Cathedral of the academy.  The body was entombed here after locating the first burial under a building in France. He is considered the father of the modern navy.  Just another sacred place for all navy members. 

 

Another view that is inspiring. This the dome in the Academy cathedral which we viewed while cadets were rehearsing for the Phantom of the Opera to be performed during the All Saints Day service.

 





 This is the lodgings of the Academy Commandant. He really has some great digs compared to the cadets.  This is only one of the large homes on the campus.  The Commandant is an Admiral of course. 

Well, just some thoughts on our tour of Annapolis and the Academy. One last photo of the happy couple having a great meal over looking the Annapolis Harbor.  Food and beverage was enjoyed!

Just another day along our journey.  We will visit here again aboard 0 Regrets in about 1-2 years as we cruise the east coast.  Remember,

"life is a journey, only you hold the map"

 

Happy Sailing,

Adm. Denise, Capt Barry and deck hands Bailey and Bella