The never-ending project to fill my hole in the ocean while bailing it out

Preparing for Season ‘05 ... already

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Description

Along with a Hewlett-Packard Photosmart 7760 printer to produce digital photos, Barbara gave me a 2005 "New England Harbors" calendar, a "book-light," and a "flashlight head lamp." The first will replace the 2004 "Sail" calendar on my office wall; the latter two will become additional conveniences on cruises for reading at night and while working in those hard-to-reach places where holding a flashlight is near-impossible if not entirely so.  (Dec. 26, 2004)

She also gave me this fun "pirate's" key-chain for my spare "Chip Ahoy" boat keys!

With the discussion on the Catalina 22 list over hats, I thought I'd display mine. Barbara had it custom-made by a vendor while we were at the Topsfield Fair this fall.  (Jan. 7, 2005)

At long last the day has finally arrived. I've decided it's safe to uncover Chip Ahoy for the season -- despite warnings that I'd cause another blizzard!  I just can't hold myself back any longer!  (Apr. 3, 2005)

The buds have begun to sprout on the little pear tree, Daylight Savings Time began today --  it's time to get started on the projects ahead.

The last little tug and winter will be but a bad memory -- Chip Ahoy will be liberated for another season.

Free at last, but dinghy Chip Mate (still covered aft of Chip Ahoy and resting on pallets) will await its freedom for another day.

Season 2005 is finally officially launched! It's time to get to work on this year's projects if I'm to be ready to launch by Memorial Day Weekend this year.

This morning I hitched up to the trailer and Chip Ahoy and moved the boat over to the front of the house, where the work will begin.  (Apr. 5, 2005)

Vaughn McGrath ("French Curves") will be by in a day of two to help remove the mast.

The mast will go on the sawhorses alongside the boat, where I'll replace the standing rigging and check out the lights and wiring for the coming season.

Let the work begin!