Found the sunshine in San Carlos - February 2015

The Captain's road trip went smoothly and without any major issues.  This year Kelly was driving south through Portland, Salem, Sacramento, Palm Desert and on to Nogales, Arizona.  He was crossing into Mexico last Tuesday (February 3rd); got a  green light this time.  Onward through Hermosilla and into San Carlos, destination Marina Seca.  Total time of  4.5 days of driving and Rojo Grande did a fine job handling the U.S highways.  Kelly mentione one item of interest; on his arrival Monday late afternoon in Nogales, there were large numbers of vehicles lined up at the gas stations. Obviously gas prices were cheaper on the U.S. side of the border, which is not always the case.  He topped up Tuesday morning before heading for the border crossing.

The Marina Seca crew had INTREPID II in the works yard as requested.  Kelly located her way down the line near the big garage and painting area; the place is busy and full. The security guards 'released' a ladder for him.  He was pleased to see that the rains had washed away much of the grit and dust off the deck. As the cabin is far too stuffed at the moment to live aboard, home for the Captian is the Totanaka RV park down the road. His accommodations are basic, but offer a place to sleep, shower and make coffee in the mornings.

Ladders - in short supply and very necessary in the works yard

With input from our surveyor, Allen, and discussions with Eduardo of Star Marine, the boat projects were underway.  Unfortunately the seacock which 'froze' last season is still not cooperating.  Plans to 'splash' into Marina San Carlos today (Saturday) are delayed a week due to low tide -of course it would be this coming Wednesday.  Thank goodness for online searches and internet communication; marine parts supplier Defender will be sending replacement parts to Nogales asap. Thanks to Mike and Judy for offering to pick up the package on their own trip for parcels.

In the meantime, the Captain walked the docks at the marina to see who is still in residence.  He met up with Ken of S/V Rosebud; just missed Mac and Wendy of S/V Kookaburra by a half hour.  Once INTREPID II is in the water it will be easier to be on the morning net to find out who is in the area.  He is making time to check out what's new in San Carlos and what has changed. 

The marina feral cats are still residence. Kelly observed it almost seems like they recognize Rojo Grande from last season.  The monthly swap meet is on this morning in the San Carlos storage yard.  Perhaps a drive down south to Empalme for the weekly Sunday market.  Never know what treasures you might find, even if you weren't looking for them!