The New Owners

This picture was taken the day we bought the boat-a few weeks ago.

We have learned a lot since then and have a few little jobs to do, but nothing major. This week, water wouldn't pump through the outboard motor, and it was just a blocked line which was an easy fix.. So we have already started to follow the adage:

"A boat is a hole in the ocean in which you pour money"

The previous owner missed it so much he went out and bought a 32" Coronado which needs a bit of TLC. He's been a great help....

Our daffodils

Here they are in all their glory. It's amazing how bright they are.

The Captain & the First Mate going aboard....

from Bailey:

I knew this new life jacket had a handle, but holy cow, these guys think I'm a suitcase.

The newest member of the family

We went sailing today on our sailboat. Money has not changed hands but survey is completed and insurance is lined up.
The previous owner (retired Calgary city policeman) bravely took us, and his girlfriend who had never been on a sailboat before, for our first lesson. We know how to raise the jib and the mainsail, we know to start the engine when there is no wind-and even without wind it toddles right along. We know to hang on tight when out on the pointy end of the boat!!!
Ken brought it back into the berth as slick as can be.
The name will change soon to AnamCara which means "Friend of my Soul"
Of course the old name has to come off and a period of time left for the boat to forget its previous name. Then there is a ceremony in which we ask permission from King Neptune to change the name. Then liberally sprinkle wine over the boat making sure lots goes into the water for him.
Google 'changing name of boat' if you don't believe me.....
I'm off to order a life jacket for Bailey.....

Boats, Blossoms & Birds

This is the frigate HMCS"Winnipeg" cruising by-actually it was Tuesday, and you can see what the day was like!
Yesterday we had the mother of all storms-for you weather people it was storm force winds bordering on hurricane force. A herring fishing boat was lost with its captain off Qualicum Beach, and a small plane went down at our airport with 1 fatality.
But today! The flocks of robins are back-this one was in the back yard by the heather, but his friends covered the front lawn.
Alas, the cherry blossoms are not mine, but beautiful nonetheless.
Our sailboat has been surveyed (the nautical term for inspected) and Ken is off seeing about insurance.
Stay tuned for pictures.....

Today I am sending you forsythia and daffodils. So hang in there Albertans, spring is on the way.

Actually, Bailey and I went looking for a Frigate, the HMCS "Winnipeg" which is supposed to be in the harbour-no sign of it yet-we'll check later.

We spent the weekend in Vancouver, Victoria and Parksville-Victoria is a sea of cherry and plum blossoms-unbelievable.