February 13, Day 233 - In Marathon

To say last night (well, early morning) was entertaining would be an understatement. At 12:30 a.m. the winds shifted and we were bounced around by gusts approaching 50 mph. We literally had 4 ft waves inside the marina and they were breaking over the seawall right in front of our bow. Everyone was up adjusting lines and fenders. One of our biggest concerns was the rail on the boat’s starboard side. There are pilings all along the concrete wall and we were afraid the rail would get jammed against one of them and thus end up getting ripped off. Gerry retied lines to keep the bow off the front and to keep the boat from continuously banging into the wall. He also readjusted fenders to protect the rails. We had every line and fender out. We were up most of the night.

Around 5 or 6:00 a.m. the winds subsided a wee bit and we were finally able to get to sleep. We slept in until 9:00 and then we had comfort food – Karen’s empanadas and eggs for breakfast. We spent most of the day on the boat, mostly working on the computer, making up new improved chafe gear for the lines, reading and relaxing.

Around 5:00 Michael and Jana stopped by and suggested we go for happy hour. We needed to get off the rocking boats for awhile. We went to Burdines for a glass of wine and then, just before sunset, headed back to the boat. However, we all decided we were hungry and stopped in for Mexican food at Lencho’s Restaurant. It was very good food. We took our time at dinner as we were in no hurry to get back to the bouncy boat. We got back to the boats a little after 8:00, watched the Olympics for awhile and then off to bed. The boat is a little rocky, but nothing like last night. Hopefully we won’t be surprised with stronger wind during the night.

Gerry snapped a picture of Linda reading. She keeps putting away the fleece throw thinking we're finally in warm weather .... then she has to bring it out again.

On our walk to Burdines, we walked through the marina where a yellow lab was carrying a little cooler. Someone told us there were doggie treats inside and we were supposed to take the cooler, open it and give the dog one. We did. Then the dog picked up the cooler and continued on his way. A minute later the dog's owner came out and showed us another trick. He had placards with words on them: sit, speak, lay down. He held them up for the dog and he performed the trick written on the placard. Very smart dog!!

Chafe gear added and tied up for the forecasted gale.

Stern chafe gear and lines.