notice from Ferry Slip MAtina that if I want to stay an

     I wish that there was good news to share but, sadly, there really isn't.  We (Eric & I) are awaiting the arrival of an engine manual from the owner of the same boat as ABISHAG who lives in England, which is where ABISHAG was built back in 1977. It is unclear that the engine manual is actually a manual for this particular make and style of engine we need, but joy and hope spring eternal.  Every one say a prayer.

     It is staring to get a lttle freaky as I got  an email notification for winter storage from Ferry Slip Marina. The cost will be significantly more that it is at Midway Marina up the Connecticut River in Hadem wher I have been going for the last few years. I got to saty at Ferry Slip because Eric wasn't able to get ABISHAG up and running before winter hit and was able to give me the same rate as Midway since he is the yard manager. Ferry Slip Marina. However, Ferry Slip Marina is a "documinium" - think a condominium for boats and all the "owners" of slip set the rules. As a result, Eric caught a lot of grief on my presence especially at the rate he was charging me. That has increased as I have been spending the entire summer there as well. And on top of that, I have a $300 credit on the books at Midway Marina for winter storage  which I paid last year before ABISHAG became unwell. I sort of doubt that Eric will be allowed to give me the same deal this year which will be a problem unless Publishers Clearing House finally finds me. It will be even more "fun" if, after all his work, along with assistance of other diesel mechanics and wearing out the internet looking for what he needs, finally admits that the engine can be fix and I have to get a new engine, at least a rebuilt, installed. Publishers Clearing House may have to find me twice!

    And then there is my "rebuilt ankle."  I had it rebuilt 4 years ago but it is still a problem and slowly getting deteriorating. The ortho guy who did it said that it was possible that it would not go back to being completely correct.  There is no artificial placement ankle  that exists that is to the level of the quality of an artificial knee of hip. Rebuilding what was there was, at this time, the best option. Once the Launch Seasonal Work is done, I'll go back and see if there is anything more that can be done. According to all the nurses at TYC, and there are lots, the ankle is actually the most difficult joint to repair. In many case, that just fuse it in place and let it go at that. I didn't want to go with that for lots of reason, especially as it would end my career in the ballet. The thought of  some procedure and more physical therapy in the future is a real source of joy!

AH, THE JOY OF BOAT OWNERSHIP!