|
|
|
|
Site Index:
|
UPDATE#
1 01/01
thru 01/15/08
Howdy
Everybody, The
adventures of 2006 and 2007 are complete and are published on the website.
We begin with the 2008-year’s initial edition, UPDATE 2008 # 01. UPDATE
2008 #01
01/01/08 through 01/15/08.
Welcome back to the new Adventures of the trawler AMARSE.
At last update, we were at our winter home at ABACO BEACH RESORT and BOAT
HARBOUR, in sunny Marsh Harbour, Abacos, Bahamas.
AMARSE, and her crew, loves this clean, clear water and sunshine. 01/01/08
TUESDAY
HOPETOWN, ELBOW CAY and ABACO BEACH RESORT AND BOAT HARBOUR, MARSH
HARBOUR, ABACOS, BAHAMAS
As the giant ball was falling in Times Square, the Bahamians were
celebrating in a different way.
Just at midnight, the magnificent fireworks display erupted over Hopetown
Square.
For half an hour, the loud explosions filled the clear, warm skies with a
colorful brilliance that delighted everyone.
The small community of Hopetown, located on Elbow Cay, hosts the largest
New Years’ celebrations in all the Abacos.
As you know from the last edition of 2007, we had taken a ferryboat to be
part of the festivities.
The New Year’s revelers cheered the terrific display.
In the distance, we could hear the approach of the Junkanoo Band.
The colorful costumes soon appeared highlighting the rhythm of the
dancers to the primal beat of the Afro-Caribbean music.
Feeling the message of the drums, the exuberant crowd joined in the
parade and attempted to move synchronously to the beat.
Although a relatively small Junkanoo Band, the spirit and historical
significance of the uniquely Bahamian event thrilled the folks.
The power of the massive drums, responding loudly to skilled hands, was
almost hypnotic.
The well lubricated celebrants moved in a flowing mass, bobbing, dipping,
and weaving, as they followed along through the narrow streets of the island
town.
At 1:30am, we boarded the ferry, which soon filled to capacity, for the
return to Marsh Harbour.
After a short stop at the regular terminal, the ferryman kindly dropped
our contingent off at Boat Harbour.
As we climbed aboard AMARSE, the clock showed 2:10am.
Although quite tired, we had thoroughly enjoyed the beginning of the New
Year in a very special Bahamian way.
If you have not already seen it, you can view our New Year’s greeting
card on this website.
HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYBODY! 01/02/08
WEDNESDAY BOAT
HARBOUR, MARSH HARBOUR, ABACOS, BAHAMAS
Today was a day of resting and recuperating. It was a day of visiting
around with friends enjoying the tales of how differently many spent their
evenings. 01/03/08
THURSDAY
BOAT HARBOUR, MARSH HARBOUR, ABACOS, BAHAMAS
Judy was back in the swing of things with the morning group for walk n’
talk. The
weather has made a turn to the chilly side after a cold front passage.
Now, I understand that many of you have little sympathy for our view of
chilly when the temperatures barely sink into the 60’s, for us, it shivers
many to the bone.
The locals will be bundled up in heavy clothes and pull-down hats.
Even the northern Yankees’ don long pants, shirts, and jackets.
Judy Williams (SHADE MOR) often plans and arranges lots of fun events for
the club members.
Today, she organized a bunch of folks for “Game Day” at the
Angler’s Bar at the Abaco Beach Resort.
Numerous tables were set up and folks joined in any game that suited
their fancy.
The bar hostess took drink orders and the fun began.
Our choice was the Farkle game under the direction and guidance of Steve
(CHRISTMAS).
(L-to-R) Peggy Christensen (NAUTILADY), Terry Flail (TERALEE), Rita
Wieczorek (MAGNUM OPUS), Steve, Chris, and Karen O’Brien (CHRISTMAS), and Judy
Law (AMARSE).
(Not shown: Robert and Carolyn Wilson (SEA ISLAND GIRL) and Fred (AMARSE)).
The dominoes game looks intense.
We all got a big kick out of the extra enthusiastic dice rolls by Rita.
I don’t know what game these gals were playing but I think I see
hi-roller cash floating around.
Drinks were available to these card players.
The games started at 2pm and the tables were cleared by 5:15pm before the
place could get raided.
We didn’t have much time to get ready for the evening cocktail party.
Generous offerings to tempt the palate were brought by the group.
It was chilly and everyone was pleased that we could use the Marquis Tent
to shelter us from the elements.
The cocktail party broke up about 6:40p.
Just when you thought that we couldn’t have more fun in one day, we
have a special invitation to dinner aboard ABACO LADY.
Jim and Judy Enter, our portside neighbors, put on a remarkable feast.
A salad started us in this culinary extravaganza.
Judy has been preparing her special “pulled Pork” dinner all day.
The slow cooked meat was soooo tender and absolutely delicious.
Served alongside were helpings of wild rice, lima beans, hot corn bread,
and sweetened with Key Lime Pie for dessert.
Wowie!
Thanks for a great evening. 01/04/08
FRIDAY
BOAT HARBOUR, MARSH HARBOUR, ABACOS, BAHAMAS
Once again, the effects of the north winds that followed the cold front
chilled everyone.
Judy put a chunk of beef in the Crock Pot to slow cook all day.
I worked on the logs and updates.
Cecil, the Boat Harbour Dockmaster, came by to visit aboard AMARSE and to
discuss the problems with the internet connections.
He always has a smile and a willing attitude to help the cruisers have a
great time.
For some reason, the crock-pot didn’t maintain enough temperature on
the low setting while out in the cold air.
The meat wasn’t quite cooked so we made other plans for a light dinner. 01/05/08
SATURDAY
BOAT HARBOUR, MARSH HARBOUR, ABACOS, BAHAMAS
Judy set out on the morning women’s walk.
I worked on logs and updates.
The power was out when we awakened and we ran the generator for a while
to ensure the refrigerator wouldn’t defrost.
About 9am, the power came back on.
We put the crock-pot inside the boat and resumed the slow cook process.
Judy hopped on her bike and rode to Maxwell’s grocery store for some
supplies.
About 4pm, Joe DeMaris came back in from his holiday flight back home.
Welcome back, JD.
We shredded the Pot Roast that had become a little overcooked.
It was actually very flavorful with the exception of a bit of dryness.
I wondered if the fish would like the slow cooked pieces of onion from
the roast.
After throwing a few chunks in, I knew by the voracious attack that they
had a taste for the onions.
Joe (ADAMAS DE MARIS) enjoyed dinner with us consisting of pot roast,
mashed potatoes, and mashed sweet potatoes.
In the evening, we continued the Stargate SG-1 series with Season 10. 01/06/08
SUNDAY
BOAT HARBOUR, MARSH HARBOUR, ABACOS, BAHAMAS
While Judy strolled the women’s walk, JD joined me for coffee and chat
on the sundeck of AMARSE.
I climbed atop the sunroof to work on the outboard engine of the dinghy.
I replaced a fuel connector fitting that has been problematic for some
time. I
obtained the part while back in Brunswick.
We lowered the dinghy off the port side of AMARSE.
This was no easy task with the wide catamaran in the adjacent slip.
There is not enough room to just lower it normally.
We had to have someone pulling it toward the dock to squeeze it by.
The test ride went fine.
At 2pm, the girls had set up a surprise birthday party for Paul Graham.
The group of well wishers assembled at the end of Dock #4 waiting for him
to arrive.
Judy made and decorated this delicious cake especially for the occasion.
Years ago, the multi-talented gal worked in a bakery as a cake decorator.
I am so fortunate to be with this great woman that is not only beautiful
but also skillful and talented in so many ways.
Simply said, “She’s amazing!”
Paul was indeed surprised and he appeared to very appreciative of
everyone’s friendship and consideration.
Paul and Sue always have a smile for everyone.
The happy couple is pictured in front of their, teal colored, Great
Harbor 37, ODYSSEY.
Boat Harbour has been their winter home for many years now.
We have become very attached to these wonderful folks.
This view of Marsh Harbour caught my eye at sunset.
To further celebrate Paul’s birthday, a gang of us walked to Snappa’s
Restaurant at the edge of Marsh Harbour.
(L-to-R) Sue Graham (ODYSSEY), Jonathan Jenkins (DOUBLE JJ), Chris
Johnson (CRITCHER CAT), Paul Graham as guest of honor (ODYSSEY), Jacki and Roger
Arrowood (PELICAN), Judie Jenkins (DOUBLE JJ) and Sandy Johnson (CRITCHER CAT).
On around the table, seated next to Sandy, Judy Law (AMARSE) and Joe
DeMaris (ADAMAS DE MARIS).
Everyone enjoyed their meals and the drinks were great.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY PAUL! (NOTE: His actual birthday is this
coming Tuesday, however, other events will preclude a party on that date.) 01/07/08
MONDAY
BOAT HARBOUR, MARSH HARBOUR, ABACOS, BAHAMAS
Judy was steppin’ out with the gals again this morning.
She seems to enjoy the 4-mile exercise with her friends.
Meanwhile, JD joined me for coffee and we attempted to resolve many of
the problems plaguing the world today.
My sleep had been interrupted on numerous occasions throughout the night
due to the wind blowing the dinghy up against the swim platform.
After 6am, I decided to just get up for the morning when I reset the
lines and stopped the irritating noise.
The big Chili-Cookoff event is scheduled for tomorrow evening.
Great chili takes patience and determination.
I began the slow cooking process to develop deep flavors this afternoon
and evening. 01/08/08
TUESDAY
BOAT HARBOUR, MARSH HARBOUR, ABACOS, BAHAMAS
The dock was a bustle with folks ready, willing, and able to assist an
arriving vessel.
Our long time friends, Milton and Jimmie Neitsch, on their Eagle 40, OUR
WAY, hail from Victoria, TX.
As many of you know, Judy lived in Victoria for many years where she
owned and operated a couple of restaurants.
Also restaurateurs in Victoria, Milton and Jimmie served with Judy on the
Texas Restaurant Association for many years.
This couple is very high on our list of dearly loved friends.
Joining them for the week was their daughter, Katina, their grandson,
Jonathan, and his girlfriend, Erica.
We are so glad to have them here in Boat Harbour.
The delightful aromas of slow cooking onions, meats, and exotic spices
filled the air around AMARSE.
Today’s huge event for the Annual Chili-Cookoff has finally arrived.
I have been looking forward to this get-together for some time.
I will not tell you my secret recipe, however, I will tell you that I
have been assembling the many fine ingredients for some time now.
Many of the special spices were imported from Mexico and would be
impossible to locate here.
The finest chili takes a long time to prepare.
Twenty-nine of the RMHYC’s renowned chefs will display their own
special blend of chili this evening at the Marquis Tent.
Most of my day was occupied with the careful attention to my 8-quart pot
of melding flavors.
A frequent stirring was accompanied by the timely addition of special
ingredients specifically planned to develop their maximum contribution to sight
and smell.
I must say that this has been the most delicious batch of chili that I
have ever made and the most richly flavored that I have ever tasted.
At 4pm, the chefs brought their creations to the tables to be judged.
Small chaffing candles did a good job of keeping the pots hot.
Next year, I must remember to bring a special apron for this event.
Judges considered four categories; Unusual, Mild, Medium, and Hot.
My chili was entered in the Medium category.
Milt Sales (LO KEE) carefully judged various entries.
Bob Williams (SHADE MOR), former Winner of the event, headed up the
judging team.
Each chef was issued a specially fitted and titled hat.
It’s obvious that Judy just cannot resist a man in uniform.
The great chili chefs of the Southwest often come up with unique names
and descriptions of their creations.
Although only three of the RMHYC chefs chose that tradition, their titles
were interesting.
Robert Wilson (SEA ISLAND GIRL) displayed a sign proclaiming the contents
as “Vincent’s Deck Wash” (affectionately named for the local Haitian that
scrubs his boat.)
Roger (PELICAN) entitled his entry with “Bahama Jack Russell Chili”
(affectionately named after his Jack Russell bred dog, Rowdy).
Although I don’t think it contained any real dog meat, he did enter
using a blend with chunks of Pork.
After long deliberation and consideration, I named my specialty, “CHILI
! CHILI! BANG! BANG!”
How fun is that?
My computer-generated sign explained more interesting attributes.
Roger and Jacki Arrowood (PELICAN) had great fun.
Chef Dave Bauereis and Bette drove in by car from Treasure Cay for the
event.
Their had taken beautiful sailboat, TAR HEEL, out to visit some friends
for several days, however, there was no way they wanted to miss this special
event.
The Master of the S/V ADAMAS DE MARIS, Joe DeMaris, has really enjoyed
preparing his special version of chili.
Chef Mike Beneville (LIBATIONS) won a first place with his entry into the
UNUSUAL category.
His wife, Pat, was obviously very proud of his accomplishment.
Dan and Alicia (S/V DANALI STAR) came over from Marsh Harbour Marina to
join in the festivities.
Dan is one of the fantastic hosts of the Cruisers’ Net VHF radio
program airing daily on Channel 68.
After a 12-year courtship, they are to be married on Friday at Patti’s
home, Blue Dolphin.
Having just arrived this afternoon, Milton Neitsch (OUR WAY) didn’t
have time to be a chef.
He, and his wife, Jimmie, had a great time visiting and tasting the
variety of chili dishes.
A total of 174 members and guests attended the event.
They went through those 29 pots of chili like a bunch of rabid jackals in
heat.
Tom Thompson (TOMLIN TOO) assisted with the open bar.
What a great club, what a great bunch of folks!
Leading the team of judges, former winner, Bob Williams (SHADE MOR),
probably sizzled off most of his taste buds during the sampling.
The proud chefs were called upon to serve their spiced concoctions to the
members and guests.
As you can see, the chefs had to be of the male gender.
The club contracted with the Abaco Beach Resort to supply salads, rolls,
and assorted “fixing’s” like sour cream, chopped onions, and shredded
cheese.
Later, they brought out fresh baked fruit pies that were delicious.
Chef Fred Gassman (LINDA G II) was honored with awards for 1st
in Class and 1st Overall.
Congratulations, Fred.
He will inherit the honor of being lead judge in next year’s Cookoff.
Lead Judge Bob Williams (SHADE MOR), Commodore Robert Wilson (SEA ISLAND
GIRL), and Event Chairman Charlie Dowling (WILD ROSE) presented the coveted
award.
The biggest drawback to being a participant is that most of the chili has
been pillaged to extinction before the chefs get their chance.
I only managed a few spoonfuls.
Oh well, we sure had a great time! 01/09/08
WEDNESDAY
BOAT HARBOUR, MARSH HARBOUR, ABACOS, BAHAMAS
Breakfast consisted of tasty waffles freshly made in
the galley.
We had morning visits from Joe DeMaris (ADAMAS DE MARIS) and from Milton
and Jimmie Neitsch (OUR WAY).
Have you ever had a hot, Grilled Cheese Sandwich made with fresh homemade
bread?
That’s what we had for lunch.
It reminded us of one of our favorite spots, the Sunset Café in Blanco,
Texas.
At 6pm, we took a taxi to the Jib Room Restaurant at the Marsh Harbour
Marina.
Wednesday night is Baby Back Rib night.
Seated with us, (L-to-R) Jimmie and Milton Neitsch (OUR WAY), Joe DeMaris
(ADAMAS DE MARIS), Katina (Neitsch) Arterberry , and Fred and Judy (AMARSE).
Father and daughter, Milton and Katina, show us a lovely bag created by
Albury Sailmakers here in the Abacos.
Katina really got some sun today.
Girlfriend, Erica, and Neitsch grandson, Jonathan Arterberry, enjoyed
their moments at the adjacent table.
Following a fantastic dinner, we went out on the patio to listen to the
sounds of “Rake n’ Scrape”.
Judy was one of the few that braved the Limbo pole.
How low can she go?
The incomparable Limbo King is Desmond.
Nobody around here goes lower.
Although not nearly as much fun, it seems to me that a Zippo would make a
better all-around cigarette lighter.
I think he amazes everyone with his flexibility.
The Jib Room bar is always an active haunt for the regular cruisers.
01/10/08
THURSDAY
BOAT HARBOUR to ELBOW CAY ANCHORAGE
This absolutely fabulous morning matches the forecast for the next few
days. Judy
laced up her sneakers for the women’s walk while I started getting AMARSE
ready to leave the dock.
At 10:40, we motored away from the protective nest of Boat Harbour.
Our southerly course was plotted to take us to Snake Cay.
Our plan was to anchor and be joined by several other boats.
Behind the cay, a shallow area is reportedly scenic and interesting for
exploration by dinghy.
With the wind more easterly than we had expected, the anchorage was
experiencing choppy conditions that would be rather uncomfortable.
Using the dinghy would be much too wet today.
We decided to relocate to a position more suitable for these wind
directions and velocities.
We selected a sandy area to the lee of Elbow Cay near Tahiti Beach.
We had to motor back almost to Boat Harbour before turning easterly
toward our destination.
Waters in-between can often be shallower than the minimum draft required
by AMARSE.
From the northern end of Lubbers Quarters, we turned south again to
locate a nice patch of sand for our anchorage.
Our first attempt to anchor resulted in a fouled anchor.
Upon retrieval, we were surprised to find that the anchor had caught on a
long, heavy cable of some kind.
I examined the situation and determined to free our entanglement using
the boat hook while Judy inched us ahead with the propellers.
Fortunately, we easily let the cable sink back to the seabed.
At
2:15pm, our anchor found solidly and we were secure at a point not far
from Tahiti Beach.
We had radioed ahead to DOUBLE JJ and CRITCHER CAT of the change in plans
so they were already anchored nearby in the company of about 10 other cruisers.
Having towed our dinghy this time, we zipped over to the beach for some
sand time.
At high tide, the entire beach is nearly all submerged.
|
