Some time back, you asked of us. Who we are? Where we are going?
Marcia and I have been together for thirty years next May. Seen alot of change, alot of growth. When I met her I had a Catalina 27 which was sold that first year. Twenty five years later, we bought it back from those who purchased it long ago and have had it four seasons now. Berthed at Lake City Mn on Lake Pepin, a thirty mile long, three mile wide spot in the Mississippi. The harbor is home to over six hundred thirty craft, well over half are sail. It is the largest Marina on the Mississippi. Lake City is the Birthplace of Water Skiing, not Florida or California. The original skis Ralph Samuelson used are on display at the Chamber of Commerce, with a duplicate set at the Marina Office.
Recently, when we bought it back, it was tired and needed a keel up restoration. To date, all the rigging above the deck has been replaced, new North Sails and Gennaker, Selden roller furling for the jib, a rebuilt diesel engine amd a great deal of spit and polish. This winter will see the interior finished in mahogany with full galley including propane burner, microwave and pressurized water for the galley and head sink. I will create drawers and compartments in every nuc and cranny I can find. One can never have enough storage.
Goals?
We are in our early sixties and are headed towards "When Work Is Optional". I would have to repower Empty Pockets for a trip down the Mississippi, as a six hp engine just is not enough for the locks and commercial traffic. But, my oh my, would that not be fun? Then across the Gulf and onto the Caribbean and mimic your experiences you and Alex have today.
Or, trade up for an HR 39 or our soft spot, an HR 43 with chairs and center bed.
Then, we could tackle anything. Any time, any where. most weather.
Jon & Marcia
"Empty Pockets"
1979 Catalina 27, 6hp Petter Diesel, North Sails, Gore Folding Prop, Lotsa TLC
Nice to know there are places in the world that "slow down" and just take life in stride. I bet they don't have high blood pressure.
Would love to know the brand of the black dress. Lovely.
Theresa
A HR43 would be the best, wouldn't it Jon? Too expensive for us though..
Theresa, I bought it from a street vendor in NYC ages back. Got it for $25!