The clock is ticking away. We'll be home SO soon, probably by Monday or Tuesday. I haven't really wrapped my brain around it yet, honestly. We've been motoring north on the beautiful Hudson River for the past couple of days. My grandparents came to meet us in Hyde Park, New York for lunch on Wednesday. It was really nice to see them, I hadn't visited with them since last September. I also went to the doctor for an unexplained ear pain and received treatment for a double ear infection. Double ear infections are rather unpleasant. I don't recommend the experience.
We unstepped the mast this morning using Castleton on Hudson Boat Club's do-it-yourself crane. It went very smoothly and was much less of an adventure than the last time we used it. It's kind of a tedious process that involves taking off the mainsail and all it's trimmings then removing about 10,000 cotter pins from the shrouds before finally attaching the big hook and giving the mast a little yank upwards. We got up before 6:00 this morning in order to beat the crowds to the crane which, needless to say, didn't appear to be a big issue to me. Deck space and freedom of movement are severely compromised when the mast and rigging are on the cabin top, but at least it will only be a couple short days.
Within an hour or two we will enter the Federal Lock at Troy, NY. This is our last few miles of the trip at sea level. I'm trying not to dwell on the various 'lasts' of the trip, but it's hard. We did the last overnight passage. The last bit on the ocean. The last sail on the Hudson. The last this, the last that. The trip has been amazing, but now I'm going home. Time to look at the up side and not be overly nostalgic!
I know that it has been eons since I've uploaded any pictures. They're coming soon- I promise!
OMG, I am so happy to hear you'll be home soon! Lake Champlain is a different place now-very high water, watch for electrical storms and heavy rain, it has been CRAZY weather here lately. Can't wait to see all of you!
ReplyDeleteLove,
Carroll
We've been following your trip, but not brave enough to comment. You probably already know this, but there is a LOT of junk in the lake because of all the flooding. Some of it is floating just under the surface of the water. So keep a sharp lookout as you head back. Carroll is right about the very high water. We haven't seen this for ourselves but have heard from others that the water is up over the base of the flagpole at Kingsland Bay and that the "dinghy area" over there is completely gone, covered with water! Take care! Cathy (Hummingbird)
ReplyDeleteCarroll,
ReplyDeleteEveryone on White Seal is so excited to see you guys too! <3
Mary
Cathy,
Well, I am glad that you were feeling brave enough to comment! Thank you very much for this information, we'll definitely be on the lookout for obstructions. And WOW- up to the flagpole! That is very high indeed. Take care,
Mary