The Continuing Saga

January 26, 2012

Ok, I'm not going to drag this out, but that dagnab dingy motor is continuing to test the patience of a very patient person.  We went for a ride on Monday.  It was delightful exploring all of the canals that come off the bay.  We looked at homes, boats, landscaping and admired the mangrove root systems.  About three miles from our dock the motor quit.  It would start and rev up in neutral, but try to put it in gear and it would die.  Finally, Brian yelled 'hold on', threw it in gear while reved to the hilt and we took off!  Forget the NO WAKE signs as we cruised into the marina -- we weren't taking a chance on it dying again.  When we knew we could coast into our slip, the speed was pulled back and --- yes, it died, but we glided into our parking spot.  More adjustments, more trips to West Marine, more parts and another test ride.  First stop fresh fuel from the gas dock.  Then, just beyond the entrance to the marina -- it quit.  Back to the slip making sputtering sounds.  Another trip to the Mercury dealer, take the carburetor apart again and Brian has just announced that he is confident that it is fixed!!!!  Well, unfortunately, it's dark so the test run will have to wait until tomorrow.  I'm sure you are riveted on the edge of your seats wondering -- how will this end.  Stay tuned...

Mangroves grow in sheltered intertidal coastal areas. 
Their tangled roots tolerate salt water and form 
islands that protect the coast.  Within 5 years a
single seed can grow into a small island.     

On a happier note.  Jill and Glenn from Last Dance came to visit us today.  Their boat is in Venice (about a half hour away).  They have almost finished the Great Loop so they had lots of suggestions for our future travels.  We originally met them in Mobile.  After chatting  on board we went to St Armand's Circle for lunch at Columbia, a well known Spanish restaurant.  Glenn was anxious to try their Cuban sandwich.  He declared it good, but not the best in the world -- as advertised.  

Gotta smile -- we're lovin the ride!