S.V. INTREPID II: This and that

Fisherman at dusk hauling in lines - pelicanos keeping an eye out!

Febrero is off to a good start as we tick off the completion of tasks and projects. We may be seeing the light at the end of the tunnel and hope there is a good weather window awaiting us when we reach it! One cabin settee is still filled with the 'soft stuff' which can't be stored until the 'hard stuff' has been put to use (tools, parts, etc.) and re-stowed in the quarter berth, aka 'the garage'.

INTREPID II at dusk

Shortly we will fill the jerry cans with diesel (we keep three 5 gallon containers as extra to our two fuel tanks; approximately 30 and 36 gallons each); two water jugs and a container for the dinghy gasoline. The canvas covers will protect them from UV rays; that will empty out yet one more bag of canvas which sits under the dodger. No point in washing down the decks until the last minute. The wind blows fine desert dust onboard as well as the grittier sand from the nearby streets. The bbq looks like it needs a good cleaning before putting on the cover. The Admiral will be sewing up some new, brighter sail ties for the mainsail and some inserts of blackout fabric for the two hatches.

Today is an overcast one, and cooler. The expected winds blew for a time last night, but eased off. We will see how accurate the latest forecast for a three-day norther will be. It's certainly not an exact science, this weather forecasting business. Cruisers have to pull together their decisions based on best available information, including 'looking around'.

Hair salon

On Wednesday we walked to the mercado at a better time (read earlier!) with the thought that we'd stock up on fresher fruits and veggies. Our search in the grocery stores has not been very successful for produce which stands up to no refrigeration. However, the vendors have started pre-bagging their produce in sizes much larger than we could possibly use in good time. Instead we enjoyed the sights and sounds and moved on to the 'segundo' (second hand) section. We will keep our eyes open for produce in San Carlos. The Captain added another two Hawaiian shirts to his collection. The Admiral found a pair of capris to brighten up her wardrobe.

Afterwards, haircuts were in order after two months. We both were pleased with our shorter looks; two cuts for $150 pesos. Not the least expensive price, but well worth it. Eventually the do it yourself kit will come out at some anchorage, however.

Thursday afternoon we had a great visit with our Rosebud friends in San Carlos with another Mexican Train rematch. The Captain would like it noted that he left all of us behind in the dust! All Carol wanted was to go out even once! (So to those of you who we've convinced it is all work and no play -- we do find time for R and R!).

Hot, fresh tamales for Dia de la Candelaria

Thursday evening we gathered for the Candelaria tamale feast as planned and the buffet line was well underway before we remembered to take a picture! Surprisingly there were over 20 people enjoying the chicken, veggie and beef tamales, frijoles (beans), Cinnamon buns, and the hot, spicy chocolate drink called champura.

The midway has come to town right next door, in anticipation of Carnaval and we watched the workers erect the roller-coaster "Wild Mouse" ride. Working seemingly without hard hats and safety lines. They've done this countless times, and we hope they continue to do so with no mishaps. The sliding and running down the rails at the end of their shift seemed to indicate these fellows were quite fearless.