30 June 2009: TuesdayI'm delighted to get off the rough and wild columbia river today. It was horrible coming down river. The tide ebbing, 20-25k headwinds and seas 5 feet. I believe this was my worst trip down river. Martin Slough is a peaceful lagoon today, the sun is shining and only one boat is anchored.
I'm tied to the dock, as I wanted to do some work on my 2 stern steps. With Pashmina off the cabin top and in the water I put one coat of cetol on the teak rails. Then moved to the aft cabin door and framing. Will get that worked on as well.
I have finally gotten around to replacing my life rings on both sides. I always thought it added a nice, nautical look to the ole girl.
Last night I downloaded Google Earth to my net book and spent some time "flying" to some of my cruising spots. I realized that the deep cuts and shoal areas can really be seen clearly, so thought it would be good to have on board. I will be able to look at new destinations and see problematic areas. I shared this with Jean, my twin, so she went on Goggle Earth and looked up my marina and Martin Slough. She has been here before, except it rained the whole time. She never thought to look up where I was cruising so this will add a new dimension for her. Perhaps those of you who have Google Earth should "fly" in and see where I am located. Google Earth is a free download, so join in the fun.
Last week the man on a deep draft Dutch sailboat stated he had another way of getting through Devil's Elbow, so I saw it last night very clearly. It will be a nice tool to have on board. I also looked up Jensen's cove across from Washougal and the entrance did not look too inviting, but my neighbors on Viajero stated their yacht club has gone there often.
They also told me a story which I will relay on to all of you. I was telling them how I had ventured to the other side at Rooster Rock through the culverts to Young Lake and creek. A member of their club had done the same in an inflatable and found himself tangled into an underwater barbed wire fence. There went all his buoyancy. So I was lucky. Must be those nautical guardian angels that cruise with me.
I love having all these new capabilities.
Day's run: 18nm
