Well here we go! Last week we Launched
Topanga! Couldn't have gone better! Everything was on time. The
marina supervisor can be a stickler when it comes to staying on
schedule and with about 300 boats to launch rightly so. Topanga was
cradled at the very far end of the marina and was "travel lifted" all
the way across the parking lot. We were on board during this maneuver and I can tell you it's quite surreal being in the cockpit
while floating on a 15,000lbs yacht through the air. Then we were
slowly lowered into the water. Thank goodness the diesel engine
started! This was my biggest concern as last year I was unable (not
for lack of trying) to change the oil. Top priority this year!
Saturday we installed the main and jib
sails with help from our friends Charles and Gael. A lazy jack cord
had dropped to the deck during the winter and the other end was
swinging halfway up the mast. This was a great opportunity to check
off something I had yet to do; go up the mast! So I strapped myself
into the bosun's chair and up I went! Only half way but still pretty
awesome! This of course ignited Cassandra's competitive side so up
she went too, just for the view!
Sunday was intense cleaning inside and
out! I primarily stayed up on deck power washing ever inch and
Cassandra worked below going through every nook & cranny above
the floorboards, sorting and shinning. Almost lost her in the deep
refrigerator. Of course boat maintenance goes on all season but we
wanted to get the bulk out of the way ASAP to we could get to
enjoying it. In fact speaking of enjoying it that night we invited
the Gerads over and had our first BBQ dinner on board of the season. A very nice
evening. We even slept on board (although it was a little cool and
damp - Montreal's summer is slow to get started).
Very productive few days! Just goes to show what a little team
work and help from friends can do!
