A C130 Fly-by

August, 20, 2010

Kayak Island, Alaska by 5am - Means of communication; cell phone, satellite phone and vhf radio.

Steve reported today that they hope to make Kayak Island by 5am and drop the hook, to switch to #2 fuel tank, change fuel filter and get a few hours of sound sleep. I hope Mark is able to persaud them to do some beach combing. Because on the south end of the island is a remote beach with the Japanese current passing just off shore so I can only imagine the interesting treasures one would find there!

They are making great time, the only ruff part thus far was being greeted by heavy swells as they rounded Cape Spencer and entered the Gulf, by 1900 hrs, Thursday the 19th the seas had diminished considerably.

The saying goes “what doesn’t hurt you only makes you stronger.” These experiences instill confidence in a sailors being and also in “Seamore’s” ability. Recalling how re-ensuring it is, knowing your vessel is strong and her ability to ride the waves well, goes a long way in a sailors heart.

They sound like they are having a good passage, the sightings of whales, fresh halibut dinners and today the coast guard did a fly by. picture of C-130 below

They spoke to Laura and Steve via vhf during an off shore training maneuver.

Below a fwd email sent to Tom Kelly (Captain-owner of Seamore) who couldn’t make the trip due to work :-( He has been their weather man for the crossing; doing a 7am/7pm check-in every day.

From: CAPT Bill Deal

> Commanding Officer

> Coast Guard Air Station Kodiak

Cc: Deal, William CAPT

> Subject: S/V Seamore

>

> OPs,

>

> The 1715 was able to contact the S/V Seamore this afternoon. They are doing well, making 6.5 KTS and are expecting to arrive at their destination tomorrow morning.

That had to be quite a sight to see a C-130 (a very large plane) fly overhead. Laura is an engineer for Kodiak Coast Guard and they knew she would be in the Gulf this week. Another fine example of Alaskan kinship.

Steve heads to Juneau Alaska by plane.

August 14, 2010, Kodiak Harbor

It is early morning and a gale is looming as we sit in our comfy salon on-board Equus and wait for the winds to blow. This rainy day is framed in fog with limited visibility.

Steve’s phone rings advising him that another delay was received via internet, Alaskaair.com.

He is waiting for Tom Kelly to give him the okay and he, Laura and Dr. Mark Withrow will be on a flight to Juneau Alaska to bring back sv Seamore.

Seamore is a 40 ft. coastal sail/cruising boat just purchased by Tom and Laura Kelly in Port Townsend WA and Steve has signed on to help bring her home to Kodiak Alaska. With weather permitting she will arrive next Sunday the 22^nd.

August, 10, 2010 Weather update Kodiak Harbor; the sun is shining with strong gusts of wind, a beautiful day here. Steve just phoned in stating there day is overcast and rainy as they pass the entrance to Glacier Bay and before he lost cell coverage. They hope enter the Gulf of Alaska tomorrow. Fair winds to you all!

So what do you get when you put a sailor, an engineer and a doctor on a boat in the middle of the Gulf of Alaska? We will let you know the answer in about a week.

A trip away from Equus

July 31^st to August 6, Orcas Island, WA

It is a rare gift that a group of college mates 40+ years later can gather and create such wonderful memories.

The four men, each with very different views, living separate unique lives, last gathered in Crested Butte, Colorado for a hike over the Rockies. Orcas Island provided a another magnificent setting for their reunion. While they have learned to avoid explicit political discussions, out of their mutual respect and desire to stay friends, there nonetheless were many animated and inspiring exchanges over a glass or two of wine. While the ladies made sure the men stayed away from political topics, they too shared a unique dance of kindred spirits.

So in closing the location was exceptional, the San Juan Islands, Washington, a lovely spot; the weather perfect and laughter abundant.

Life doesn’t get much better than that!

Andy Harris and his wife Pam, our gracious hosts on Orcas Island, thank you so much for a gathering to be remembered by us all.

Pictures posted on side bar.

August 10th 2010 Kodiak Harbor

We have welcomed two new sailboats to the harbor; both arriving from Japan, families with small children on board, more to follow on them and their adventures. Now I must get ready for a trip to Long Island tomorrow. 'Til next time, keep smiling