s/v YOLO Swabs Log Blog Day 254 Entry 0056 OMG 2000+ people!!!!!!!

s/vYOLO You Only Live Once Swab’s Log Blog

Posting Date:  Friday, January  24, 2014   
Day 254 Entry 0056

Boot Key Harbor and Marina Mooring #W10  http://www.ci.marathon.fl.us/government/departments/marina-and-ports/

Actual Date:  January 24, 2014 Friday  

Subject:  2000 people!

YEPPEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

YOU MIGHT NOT BELIEVE THIS, BUT 

2000+ PEOPLE, WORLD WIDE

ARE READING THIS BLOG!!!!!!!!!

Our pictures are listed here - give it a click!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

https://www.google.com/search?q=yolo+sailing+blogspot&num=20&newwindow=1&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=EoHZUoClJdLnsASUkYHADg&ved=0CLsBELAE&biw=1366&bih=653

THANK YOU!   THANK YOU! THANK YOU!  THANK YOU!  THANK YOU!  THANK YOU!

To all of our readers and advertisers!!!!!!!!

Sea u later!!!

s/v YOLO Swab's Log Blog Day 253 Entry 0055 No Man Is An Islan But Our Boat is! Part 4

s/vYOLO You Only Live Once Swab’s Log Blog

Posting Date:  Thursday, January  23, 2014   
Day 253 Entry 0055

Boot Key Harbor and Marina Mooring #W10  http://www.ci.marathon.fl.us/government/departments/marina-and-ports/

Actual Date:  January 17, 2014 Friday. 

Subject:  No Man Is An Island But Our Boat Is!  Part 4

So basically the boat is set up as its own island!   We can live ‘on the hook’ (translation for land lubbers - at anchor, or not attached to shore electricity) for 3 months. Based on Captain Steve’s calculations the diesel fuel should last more than 3 months, but we don’t want to get caught short!   There are so many remote places that we want to visit and in order to go there we knew we had to be totally self sufficient!   

So we can be totally independent for as long as 3 months or as long as we are still talking to each other – which ever comes first! 

 We are ready to set out to find those remote places.

Sea u later!  Now when and where to go! 

s/v YOLO UPDATE WITH TREE PICTURES Day 237 Entry 0046 Party like a local! 7

s/v YOLO You Only Live Once Swab’s Log Blog

Posting Date:  Tuesday, January 7, 2014   
Weather:  53 degrees   Sustained winds of 20 to 25 mph with gusts and up to 35 to 41.     

Day 237 Entry 0046

Boot Key Harbor and Marina Mooring #W10  http://www.ci.marathon.fl.us/government/departments/marina-and-ports/

Actual Date:  December 31, 2013 Tuesday  

Subject:  Party like a local. 7  UPDATE WITH TREE PICTURES!

Moving on we headed towards the center of town to search out the great Bed and Breakfast  we stayed in previously.   We found the Old Towne Manor, on Eaton just off Duval Street, right were we left it!  This place is great!!!  http://www.booking.com/hotel/us/eatonstreet-keywestfl.html?aid=347990&label=sppctrip-hotel-577503_xqdz-_pool-com_slice-99999&utm_source=tripad&utm_medium=SPPC&utm_content=images&utm_term=hotel-577503&lang=en-us&utm_campaign=US&trip=UswE-wreAnYAAEbZFDAAAAAT;inj=1

This is the actual room we stayed in, but the best part in not in the picture though!

http://www.oldtownmanor.com/Rooms/Lime-tree.aspx  The bathroom was added on to the guest room.  Because the owners did not want to cut the very large tree down to accommodate the bathroom!    They built the bathroom around the tree – literally!  The tree is over 4 feet around, over 60 years old and grows through the floor boards and right through the roof!   You have to side step between the tree and the wall to get to the toilet!  The funny thing was that when I booked the room the clerk did mentioned that there was a tree in the bathroom  but didn't mention the size or height so I thought it was something similar to a potted palm.  OK not a problem.   So I never mentioned it to Captain Steve.  Well when we got there, he was bringing in the bags and immediately noticed the tree.  I was on the patio talking to the manager, when he came out and asked if I new there was a tree in the bathroom.   

The manager immediately replied for me, saying that he told me about the tree!  I guess other guests have had a problem with the tree!  I looked at both of them and asked what the problem was, as I walked into the room! 

Upon seeing the tree, I declared that I was under the impression that I thought it was a potted palm and this is definitely not a potted palm!  Then Captain Steve asked, ‘Did you pay extra for the room with the tree?’   I guess he knows me all too well – I didn't but I would have have paid extra – it was GREAT!!!!!!  Well we checked - the tree is still there! 

s/v YOLO Swab's Log Blog Day 251 Entry 0054 No Man Is An Island But Our Boat Is! Part 3

s/vYOLO You Only Live Once Swab’s Log Blog

Posting Date:  Tuesday, January  21, 2014   
Day 251 Entry 0054

Boot Key Harbor and Marina Mooring #W10  http://www.ci.marathon.fl.us/government/departments/marina-and-ports/

Actual Date:  January 17, 2014 Friday. 

Subject:  No Man Is An Island But Our Boat Is!  Part 3

Since we have a reverse osmosis system (aka water maker) we don’t need to go to a dock to fill our water tanks.  I was very leery about desalinated water – really very leery.  I thought that we would just use it only for washing and not drink it.   While on the dock at Boot Key Harbor I met a man from Point Pleasant, NJ (no less).  During the conversation he mentioned that he worked for the water department at Ft. Dix.  So I asked him about the desalinated water systems – he said that it works great!  He said that the armed forces use reverse osmosis systems extensively for drinking!   He has a system on his boat!  After mentioning the system we had – he volunteered that your system is much better than mine!  So drink up!  Well I thought I would give the reverse osmosis water a try!   I was very surprised that it is crystal clear!   We conducted our own taste test using 2 identical glasses (yes I had to 'barrow ' form a restaurant) 2 glasses (OK 2 small brandy snifters) for this test  since we only have plastic glasses on the boat!   We each took a turn filling one glass with the bottled water and the other the desalinated water and then the other would drink it.   Neither Captain Steve nor I could tell the difference!  Can you tell the difference????

Sea u later!  
Subject:  No Man Is An Island But Our Boat Is!  Part 4

s/v YOLO Swab's Log Blog Day 249 Entry 0053 No Man Is An Island But Our Boat Is! Part 2

s/vYOLO You Only Live Once Swab’s Log Blog

Posting Date:  Sunday, January  19, 2014   
Day 249 Entry 0053

Boot Key Harbor and Marina Mooring #W10  http://www.ci.marathon.fl.us/government/departments/marina-and-ports/

Actual Date:  January 17, 2014 Friday. 

Subject:  No Man Is An Island But Our Boat Is!  Part 2

The electronic dinghy hoist has 2 cables each with its own hand held remote control.   The boat’s electronic system can not handle both cables being operated at the same time!   Basically if both buttons are pressed simultaneously, the circuit breaker is tripped.  No big deal!  All of our guests seem to be very interested in the dinghy hoist, since I guess, not many people have them!   When some one other than Captain Steve or I is using the hoist, we always tell them – ‘Don’t press both buttons at once!’   Everyone heads these instructions and have operated the hoist successfully; with the exception of one!  How come there is always ONE!  Well he knows who he is!  I’ll leave it at that!

The other electricity exception is the thing that generates the most amount of heat when use; is the iron!   OMG!!!!  Believe me when I say; ’I am not complaining!!!!!’   I don’t enjoy ironing anyway!   Actually I don’t know anyone who does!!!   When packing for this trip, I limited the number of clothes that require ironing to 1 dress for me and 5 dress shirts and 2 pair of slacks for Captain Steve.   I can iron when only the bare minimum of systems and appliances are turned on – not a problem!  Actually I think it’s a great excuse not to iron!

Sea u later!  No Man Is An Island But Our Boat Is!  Part 3

s/v YOLO Day 247 Entry 0052 No Man Is an Island, but Our Boat Is! Part 1

s/vYOLO You Only Live Once Swab’s Log Blog

Posting Date:  Friday, January  17, 2014   
Weather:  Beautiful, blustery cool and crisp!  Sweat shirts, Long pants and socks required!   53 degrees going to 64.  Breezy 5 to 7 mph out of the east.  Perfect Polar Day!  

Day 247 Entry 0052

Boot Key Harbor and Marina Mooring #W10  http://www.ci.marathon.fl.us/government/departments/marina-and-ports/

Actual Date:  January 17, 2014 Friday. 

Subject:  No man is an island, but our boat is!  Part 1

The boat has the systems to run with out shore power (hooked up to electricity).  s/v YOLO has a generator to produce electricity and 12 batteries to maintain it for up to 48 hours.  Using this stored power we run all systems and appliances with 2 exceptions.  The generator is turned on every day (usually in the morning) for 2 hours, which requires less than a half gallon of gas; to charge the batteries.  I can operate all of the house appliances such as:  the coffer maker; microwave; toaster oven; electric fry pan; and slow cooker; washing machine; water heater; both TV’s; 

Captain Steve hoisting the TV antenna!

reverse osmosis; use all the electrical outlets; turn on all the interior and exterior lights and most importantly the electronic toilet for 24 to 48 hours. Longer, if only a few of the systems are turned on.  This is in addition to all the boat and navigational systems such as:  navigation lights; bow thruster; electronic hoist; reverse osmosis (water maker) and electronic winches and windless (anchor.)  There are 2 exceptions to this though!   The exceptions are the electronic dinghy hoist and the clothes iron.   

Sea u later!   No Man Is An Island, But Our Boat Is!  Part 2

s/vYOLO Swab's Log Blog Day 242 Entry 0051 What's in a (boat) Name?

s/vYOLO You Only Live Once Swab’s Log Blog

Posting Date:  Sunday, January 12, 2014   
Weather:  Beautiful!  77 degrees going to 85.  Slight breeze 3 to 5 mph out of the east.  Perfect Day!  

Day 242 Entry 0051

Boot Key Harbor and Marina Mooring #W10  http://www.ci.marathon.fl.us/government/departments/marina-and-ports/

Actual Date:  January 12, 2014 Saturday. 

What is the connection between the name of a boat and the Captain??
I have mentioned a few boat names in  previous posting that I thought of as interesting.  I will continue to include boat names and/or post pictures of boat names in future blogs.  I will select boat names that we liked, or thought unusual, or are totally baffled as to what it means or it's origin.   We often wondered what the story is behind boat names; sometimes we speculate or even make up stories!
What is your first impression of this boat name?

No the captain of m/vBLISS is not disenchanted or unhappy with his boat.  'BLISS', is not crossed out!  Yes I know it looks as though 'BLISS' is crossed out!  But motor boats cross there stern lines when tied up to the dock with the stern in. .  
We liked this one!  Captain Steve thinks it is the Captain's first boat!

Sea u later!

s/vYOLO Day 241 Entry 0050Swab's Log Blog 2014

s/vYOLO You Only Live Once Swab’s Log Blog

Posting Date:  Saturday,  January 11, 2014   
Weather:   

Day 241 Entry 0050

Boot Key Harbor and Marina Mooring #W10  http://www.ci.marathon.fl.us/government/departments/marina-and-ports/

Actual Date:  January 1, 2014 New Years Day, Wednesday   

Subject:  2014 

We enjoyed the warm, sunny weather on New Years Day, which is a total out of the box for us.  So we decided to just 'hang out and take the day off!' Which is exactly what Captain Steve did  - literally! 

I think he found a new 'happy place!'

Captain Steve attached the 'dunken chair' to the cable used to raise and lower the dinghy.  Unfortunately  I couldn't get the audio to work.  So you will have to imagine what he is saying to me as I raise and lower the chair, but I guarantee you he was not complaining! 

We went to dinner at a brand new restaurant just across US 1 from the marina - it was superb!  I would tell you the name but it's so new they don't have a sign  up yet!
Sea u later!

s/vYOLO Day 240 Entry 0049 Party like a local 10. Sloppy Joe's

s/vYOLO You Only Live Once Swab’s Log Blog

Posting Date:  Friday, January 10, 2014   
Weather:   Cool 60 to 70 degrees with a 20 percent chance of rain  and wind out of the south at 5 to 8 mph.  Nothing as it was!

Day 240 Entry 0049

Boot Key Harbor and Marina Mooring #W10  http://www.ci.marathon.fl.us/government/departments/marina-and-ports/

Actual Date:  December 31, 2013 Tuesday  

Subject:  Party like a local. 10 Sloppy Joe's 

Well we had a celebratory beer at Captain Tony's and moved on in search of more adventure!   We didn't have to go far to reach our next destination - Sloppy Joe's on Duval Street.  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sloppy_Joe's  

Well it was getting close to sundown, so we just snapped this picture of Sloppy Joe's Bar!   With plans to circle back later to  watch the 'Conch' descend while counting down 2013.  
We headed to Mallory Square to enjoy the street party that takes place every evening just before sundown.   The street entertainers and venders are quite diverse, therefore you never know what they have in store for you!  Just south of Mallory Square is the southern most point, of the continental  United States facing with an unobstructed view facing due west!  the best place to be when watching the sun go down.  So we thought it fitting that we watch the last  sunset of 2013 from there!    Well it did have an unobstructed view when cruise ships are not in port.    We were assured by the staff that the ship was departing shortly. 

 And they were true to their word!

There you have it - the last sunset of 2013!

After eating dinner and toasting the sunset we decided to return back to the boat!

We arrived back at the boat at 11:45, sat on the bow reminiscing where we have been and where we are going!

I wanted to end the year by recapping our adventurers but every day brings something new for us to deal with.  I have enough material for a year, but the important thing is that we are acquiring new material every day!  So I will include past occurrences amongst the daily posts!  I hope you have enjoyed this Swab's Log Blog thus far and will continue to read and comment on them!  

May your sails be full and your seas gentle in the coming year!

Sea you later!  2014

s/vYOLO Day 239 Entry 0048 Party Like local 9. Captain Tony's Saloon - fish.

s/vYOLO You Only Live Once Swab’s Log Blog

Posting Date:  Thursday, January 9, 2014   
Weather:   70 degrees with a 60 percent chance of rain wind out of the south at 5 to 8 mph.

Day 239 Entry 0048

Boot Key Harbor and Marina Mooring #W10  http://www.ci.marathon.fl.us/government/departments/marina-and-ports/

Actual Date:  December 31, 2013 Tuesday  

Subject:  Party like a local. 9  Captain Tony's Saloon - fish.

As we  saw the sign with the fish, we both looked at each other and asked each other simultaneously for a quarter!  I went first!  I stood in the gutter, with my back to the sign.  Captain Steve stood on the sidewalk stopping people from crossing in front of the sign so I would not hit them!  He counted down, I threw the coin and missed by yards and yards.  Being a gentleman - Captain Steve gave me another try!  I again I failed miserably!  
Now it was Captain Steve's turn.  By this time a crowd had gathered to watch! He said it was not necessary to stand in front of the bar to keep anyone from walking past, because could through pretty well!   Even the patrons in the restaurant across the street stopped eating to to watch!  I thought that Captain Steve was way over confident and laughed!   So I stood across the street with the camera ready to catch the momentous occasion just in case he hit his mark! 

Well Captain Steve has never failed to amaze me!  As pedestrians walked around him  but most stopped to watch and cars whizzed by, I counted down!   Through the lips, over the gums, look out tummy here it comes!  He let it rip!   OMG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! He nailed it on the first try!   He didn't believe it!  He actually looked around on the ground for the quarter, until the women in the picture assured him that he really hit the mark!    As I hooted and applauded, people stopped and congratulated him, passing cars honked their horns saluting him!   People came out of the bar and restaurant to congratulate him.   Well I was thrilled when I realized that I got the picture!    Everyone telling him that he will have very good luck for the year! Hopefully they meant 2014!  But all in all, I must say that 2013 was a great year for us!   So when you visit Captain Tony's Saloon in Key West - try your luck!!!!! 

I 

s/vYOLO Day 238 Entry 0047 Party like a local 8.

s/vYOLO You Only Live Once Swab’s Log Blog

Posting Date:  Wednesday January 8, 2014   
Weather:       

Day 238 Entry 0047

Boot Key Harbor and Marina Mooring #W10  http://www.ci.marathon.fl.us/government/departments/marina-and-ports/

Actual Date:  December 31, 2013 Tuesday  

Subject:  Party like a local. 8

Captain Tony's is famous for another tree - the hanging tree!   Yes when expanding the bar they had to work around the Key West hanging tree on the left and the graves of those who were hanged on the right!    
https://www.google.com/search?q=captain+tony's+key+west+hanging+tree&num=20&newwindow=1&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=AyXMUibEs5AHts-BsAk&ved=0CAkQ_AUoAQ&biw=1366&bih=652

But the best part (we think) is what goes on outside the bar!  Yes!  I am back in the gutter! Captain Steve being true to form takes me to the best places!   Yes I am back in the gutter!  The focus of this bar involves the fish above the sign and a quarter!  The last time we were there at Captain Tony's, it was about 1am on Sunday morning.  The parrot head group of us were returning to the Old Towne Manor when we walked past the bar.  There were about 20 people from a wedding - including the groom and bride  in full regalia along with groomsmen and bridesmaids out front.   Each member took turns standing in the gutter, with their back to the fish, attempting to through  a quarter into the fish's mouth.   Well a crowd gathered as various members of the wedding party tried to no avail including the groom.  Then it was the bride's turn, as 2 duityful bridemaids held the hem of her gown she stood poised with her hand over her head as the group counted down!  One, two three - she let it rip and the quarter landed right int he fish's mouth - didn't even touch the lips! Everyone on the street went wild!   Everyone in our group said that next time we wanted to try.  Well, we never made it back that time.  But we were there now!

A little background on the original owner and bar!   http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tony_Tarracino 

http://www.keywestparanormal.com/Locations/CaptainTonysSaloon.html

Sea u later.  Party like a local 8.

s/vYOLO Swab's Log Blog Day 237 Entry 0046 Party like a local 7.

s/vYOLO You Only Live Once Swab’s Log Blog

Posting Date:  Tuesday, January 7, 2014   
Weather:  53 degrees   Sustained winds of 20 to 25 mph with gusts and up to 35 to 41.     

Day 237 Entry 0046

Boot Key Harbor and Marina Mooring #W10  http://www.ci.marathon.fl.us/government/departments/marina-and-ports/

Actual Date:  December 31, 2013 Tuesday  

Subject:  Party like a local. 7

Moving on we headed towards the center of town to search out the great Bed and Breakfast  we stayed in previously.   We found the Old Towne Manor, on Eaton just off Duval Street, right were we left it!  This place is great!!!  http://www.booking.com/hotel/us/eatonstreet-keywestfl.html?aid=347990&label=sppctrip-hotel-577503_xqdz-_pool-com_slice-99999&utm_source=tripad&utm_medium=SPPC&utm_content=images&utm_term=hotel-577503&lang=en-us&utm_campaign=US&trip=UswE-wreAnYAAEbZFDAAAAAT;inj=1

This is the actual room we stayed in, but the best part in not in the picture though!

http://www.oldtownmanor.com/Rooms/Lime-tree.aspx  The bathroom was added on to the guest room.  Because the owners did not want to cut the very large tree down to accommodate the bathroom!    They built the bathroom around the tree – literally!  The tree is over 4 feet around, over 60 years old and grows through the floor boards and right through the roof!   You have to side step between the tree and the wall to get to the toilet!  The funny thing was that when I booked the room the clerk did mentioned that there was a tree in the bathroom  but didn't mention the size or height so I thought it was something similar to a potted palm.  OK not a problem.   So I never mentioned it to Captain Steve.  Well when we got there, he was bringing in the bags and immediately noticed the tree.  I was on the patio talking to the manager, when he came out and asked if I new there was a tree in the bathroom.   

The manager immediately replied for me, saying that he told me about the tree!  I guess other guests have had a problem with the tree!  I looked at both of them and asked what the problem was, as I walked into the room! 

Upon seeing the tree, I declared that I was under the impression that I thought it was a potted palm and this is definitely not a potted palm!  Then Captain Steve asked, ‘Did you pay extra for the room with the tree?’   I guess he knows me all too well – I didn't but I would have have paid extra – it was GREAT!!!!!!  Well we checked - the tree is still there! 

I am intrigued about ghosts and local folk law!  So I usually want to go to the places that are deemed to be haunted when visiting an area.  After looking at a few brochures describing various ghost tours available Which all looked the same.  But we selected one and headed off to buy tickets that night.  We boarded the trolley and took off early in the evening.  Well every thing was going fine until the trolley stopped right in front of the Old Town Manor!   GREAT!!!   With a side glance, Captain Steve,   asked if I knew about this stop on the tour?  Of course not!  What was he implying??  Captain Steve’s friend selected the B and B!  I should have been offended but I wasn’t!!!  The tour guide proceeded to say that the manor was originally built by the only physician on the island.  Apparently the physician was not very good because the house is said to be haunted by former patients!!!!  I mentioned this legend to the Manor manager and he said that some guests have mentioned seeing an aberration.  Especially in the guest room that was used as the physician’s surgery!  Yes I am very interested in ghosts etc.  but I don’t necessarily want to meet ghosts though and I know for a fact that Captain Steve does not in any shape or form!   This being said – we were very happy with just the tree in the bathroom.  So the next time I want to go on a ghost tour – I will do further research to determine the exact places included on the tour! 

Sea u later!  Party like a local 8.  OK What’s next! 

s/vYOLO Swab's Blog Day 236 Entry 0045 Party like a local. 6

s/vYOLO You Only Live Once Swab’s Log Blog

Posting Date:  Monday, January 6, 2014   Clam before the storm.  Sustained winds of 20 to 25 mph with gusts and up to 35 to 40 with heavy rain expected tonight.   

Day 236 Entry 0045

Boot Key Harbor and Marina Mooring #W10  http://www.ci.marathon.fl.us/government/departments/marina-and-ports/

Actual Date:  December 31, 2013 Tuesday  

Subject:  Party like a local. 6

We found a little breakfast place near the bus stop and decided to have brunch.  We got the last 2 seats on the bus and as we traveled down US1 it was apparent that a lot of ‘fresh water conchs’ had the same idea!  Even though the bus was very crowded we enjoyed the ride, taking in the sites and appreciating the vantage point the height of the bus provided. 
https://www.google.com/search?num=20&newwindow=1&site=&source=hp&q=seven+mile+bridge+pictures&oq=seven+mile+bridge&gs_l=hp.1.2.0l10.2059.5913.0.8923.17.16.0.1.1.0.327.2696.4j8j3j1.16.0....0...1c.1.32.hp..3.14.1949.fYhU0xLsDm0

As I mentioned, we have been to Key West previously and have seen a lot of the sites.  In anticipation of sailing down to Key West, we thought we should walk near the seaport to scope out the marinas and anchorages in the area.  So we got off the bus the Historic Seaport Harbor Walk, where the marinas are located.    Prior to leaving I looked up all of the marinas in Key West checking the depth of the water at the approach (channel) to the marina as well as the depth at the dock.  I have found that even though there is very deep water at the dock sometimes the channel is not dredged and too shallow for s/vYOLO.  Since we need a depth of 6 feet, it eliminated a lot of marinas, since most of the marinas only have a depth of 5 feet.   We would fit at the A&B Marina http://www.aandbmarina.com/  and the Westin in Key West. http://deals.westin.com/Westin-Key-West-Hotel-1780/special-offers?language=en_US&EM=fla-keyscom_Marinas_LinkToSOP_1780_SEC  Both of which were really nice but not available until Mid February.  Key West is hosting a regatta at the end of January.  So we will stay put in Boot Key for the time being!  But we also know to make plans to attend the regatta, if we are still in the keys.  With the marinas covered, we decide to stop at one of the roof top bars overlooking the marina for a spell.  

Sea u later!  Party like a local 7.

s/vYOLO Swab's Log Blog Day 235 Entry 0044 Party like a local. 5

s/vYOLO You Only Live Once Swab’s Log Blog

Posting Date:  Sunday, January 5,  2014   Rainy and cool about 72 degrees. 

Day 235 Entry 0044

Boot Key Harbor and Marina Mooring #W10  http://www.ci.marathon.fl.us/government/departments/marina-and-ports/

Actual Date:  December 31, 2013 Tuesday  

Subject:  Party like a local. 5

Captain Steve started the dinghy and we took off.  We hadn’t gotten very far when the engine stalled!  GREAT!   Thinking that it might be a clogged filter or a dirty spark plug we rowed back to the boat.  Grateful, the wind was with us!  He checked the filter first thing, (the man loves his filters!)  And that was not the problem.  Moving on to the spark plug and that was not the problem.  Saving the best for last, now on to the carburetor!  Which means he has to remove the carburetor from the engine.  GREAT!  So I got news papers and a cardboard box to catch the gasoline that might drip from the carburetor.  (Yes I have some newspapers and cardboard boxes on board!  But I must say they have all been inspected and kept in a plastic bag, very tightly sealed!)   Well removing the carburetor while the outboard in attached to the dinghy transom, is not an easy thing to do!   I’ll use the word ‘precarious, to be polite!  There is no margin for errors!  So picture this:  Captain Steve is standing up in the dinghy, leaning over the outboard, with a tiny screw driver in one hand and with the other, holding on to the screws, nuts, bolts, washers and gaskets, so they don’t fall into the water!  All the while the dinghy is bobbing up and down by the wind, waves, and the wake of other boats and every few seconds bouncing into the swim platform as well.   

In the meantime I am on deck calling on my ‘go to girl’ praying he doesn't drop the carburetor or anything else into the water.   Since it has always been the case with me that the last thing checked it the culprit – yes it was the carburetor!  After an hour of dismantling and cleaning the carburetor, he was ready to get back in the dinghy and re install the nice clean carburetor!  Again I called on my ‘go to girl’ and now I prayed I would not drop the carburetor when I handed it to Captain Steve in the dinghy.  Neither of us dropped anything!  

While he took another shower, I said a big “Thank you!’ to my ‘go to girl’ as I picking up his tools and stuff! 

We got back in the dinghy, delayed but not defeated!

Sea u later!  Party like a local!  6 

s/vYOLO Swab's Log Blog Day 234 Entry 0043 Celebrate like a local! 4

s/vYOLO You Only Live Once Swab’s Log Blog

Posting Date:  Saturday, January 4,  2014  

Day 234 Entry 0043

Boot Key Harbor and Marina Mooring #W10 http://www.ci.marathon.fl.us/government/departments/marina-and-ports/

Marathon in the Middle of the Florida Keys

Actual Date:  December 31, 2013 Tuesday

Subject:  Celebrate like a local!  4

Not exactly perfect!  Well, Key West is approximately 50 miles from Marathon.  That’s a really long bike ride, even if it is mostly flat!  I knew about the bus between Marathon and Key West but it stops running at 6pm.  http://www.keywestcity.com/egov/docs/1340128616_843200.pdf

Salt Water Conchs said additional shuttles will run till 2am.   The regular fare is $4.00; and seniors $1.50 till 4pm.  After 4pm the fare is a flat $10.  The bus is still a bargain – 100 miles for $11.50 each – can’t beat it!  The bus stop is a block away from the marina in Marathon and stops right at Mallory Square, in Key West! http://www.sunsetcelebration.org/

 Getting better and better but not exactly PERFECT!!!!!

Five years ago we attended a 3 day convention for Parrot Heads http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parrothead  known as ‘The Meeting of the Minds’  http://www.examiner.com/article/parrot-heads-flock-to-key-west-for-annual-meeting-of-the-minds-convention

with Captain Steve’s friend; Neil Knight, from Kenny, Pennsylvania.  YES, we are both card carrying members of Jimmy Buffet’s Parrot Heads.  And YES, they do have conventions!!    To be perfectly frank the word convention, used in conjunction with Parrot Heads and Key West just does not fit - I don’t think; kinda like an oxy moron.   After attending, I referred to the event as ‘Spring Break for Senior Citizens!’   I think that the term sums up the event and most of the attendees accurately and most appropriately!  I am confident that the majority of the attendees would be flattered by this lable!  So we were some what (OK I admit VERY) familiar with bars in the Mallory Square and Duval Street area!  We also knew Sloppy Joe’s Bar is located just a few blocks from Mallory Square! 

Captain Steve and I agreed to leave about 10am, enjoy the day in Key West and see if we could last till midnight! 

Now this is PERFECT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sea u later.  Party like a local! 5

s/vYOLO Swab's Log Blog Day 233 Entry 0042 Celebrate like a local! 3

s/vYOLO You Only Live Once Swab’s Log Blog

Posting Date:  Friday, January 3, 2014  Day 233 Entry 0042
Weather:  Clear and breezy 80 degrees.  (Blizzard in NYC. )

Boot Key Harbor and Marina Mooring #W10 http://www.ci.marathon.fl.us/government/departments/marina-and-ports/

Marathon in the Middle of the Florida Keys

Actual Date:  December 31, 2013 New Years Eve, Tuesday

Subject:  Celebrate like a local!  3

Locals in the Keys are referred to as Salt Water Conchs, while visitors are known as Fresh Water Conchs.   http://www.funtrivia.com/en/subtopics/Key-West---The-Conch-Republic-223516.html

All the Salt Water Conchs I spoke to said they were staying home and watching the ball drop in New York’s Times Square.  GREAT!  One person even said that he was saving money to go to Times Square on New Year’s Eve 2014!   I didn’t have the hart to tell him it was 26 degrees today in NYC.  But they all said they had been to Key West at least once.  But the majority of people there were Fresh Water Conchs!  Both Captain Steve and I have been to Time’s Square on New Year’s Eve at some point in our lives.   Native New Yorkers, I think, only ever go once, just to be able to say they were there.  The vast majority of the celebrants are from out of town!  I suggested that we do the Conch Republic version of watching the ball drop, since we are Fresh Water Conchs.    Instead of a ball dropping to count down the year, Key West uses a giant conch shell, which descends from atop Sloppy Joe’s Bar!   http://sloppyjoes.com/index.php/conch-shell-cam/

This is getting better and better!  Better but not PERFECT!!!!!!! Yet!

Sea u later.  Celebrate like a local. 4

s/vYOLO Swab's Log Blog Day 232 Entry 0041 Celebrate like a local! 2

s/vYOLO You Only Live Once Swab’s Log Blog

Posting Date:  Thursday, January 2, 2014  

Day 232 Entry 0041

Boot Key Harbor and Marina Mooring #W10 http://www.ci.marathon.fl.us/government/departments/marina-and-ports/

Marathon in the Middle of the Florida Keys

Actual Date:  December 31, 2013 New Year’s Eve, Tuesday

Subject:  Celebrate like a local!  2

It was my job to think of something to do to close out 2013, while Captain Steve cleaned the filters on the outboard motor, which is a Mercury four stroke 6.0 engine.    http://www.mercurymarine.com/engines/outboards/fourstrokes/4-6/  Boy oh boy does my Captain Steve love to clean filters!  Thankfully there was just a little gunk in this filter and no presents left on the salon table!

So what to do till midnight?  I thought of what we can’t do:  invite friends over – we don’t really know anyone here; can’t watch the ball drop in New York’s Time Square – we don’t have cable TV. http://www.timessquarenyc.org/events/new-years-eve/index.aspx

OK enough negativity – I have to look at what we can do!  Some of the local restaurants and tiki bar establishments, that are accessible by dinghy, were having parties.  The prices varied from $50 to $150 per person for dancing to live bands; none of which were familiar, unlimited food and open bar.    Paying that kind of money to be with very drunk strangers, is not my idea of the way I wanted to close out 2013, which was a very good for us!  We would have 2 drinks at the most!  You can not be drunk and get in and out of a dinghy, let alone start the outboard, navigate through unfamiliar territory, keep site of channel markers and locate your white boat amongst 200 others at night with only a hand held flash light to guide you! 

So where do people in the keys go to party?  Everyone goes to the Conch Republic - Key West!  http://www.conchrepublic.com/welcome.htm

Sea u later.  Subject Celebrating like a local. 3

s/vYOLO Swab's Log Blog Day 231 Entry 0040 Happy New Year 2014! Celebrate like a local!

s/vYOLO You Only Live Once Swab’s Log Blog

Posting Date:  New Years Day, Wednesday, January 1, 2014  

Day 231 Entry 0040

Boot Key Harbor and Marina Mooring #W10 http://www.ci.marathon.fl.us/government/departments/marina-and-ports/

Marathon in the Middle of the Florida Keys

Actual Date:  December 31, 2013 Tuesday

Subject:  Happy New Year 2014!  Celebrate like a local!   

Weather:  A little cloudy, cool 70 to 80 degrees, breezy on land and windy on the water – wind 10 – 15 mph gusts to 25.

Last New Year’s Eve we were in bed by 9pm.  Captain Steve and I went to Hawaii for 2 months on January 1.  I got a really good deal on the cost of the flight but it departed at 6am, so we went to be early.    

http://www.gohawaii.com/

 7 year grandson Liam surfing!

View of North Shore of Oahu from our condo.

This year we are going to celebrate!  But how?  Well like the locals celebrate! 

Captain Steve and I looked for local traditions to celebrate the New Year!  Southerners believe that eating black eyed peas http://americanfood.about.com/od/resourcesadditionalinfo/a/New-Years-Day-Tradition-Black-Eyed-Peas.htm  brings good luck.  And since we are in the south, I bought a can of Margaret Holmes brand  of  'hoppin' john' blackeyed peas with tomatoes, and onions  (I don't think Delmonte makes them.)  grown abd prepared right there in South Carolina! http://www.margaretholmes.com/products/     NO! I didn’t cook them.  Give me a break , this is my first New Years in Florida, but it won’t be our last!  I also don't know anything about black eyed peas.   But I am willing to learn.  So I will have to do research for some real southern recipes, or if you have a recipe that you want to share I would really appreciate it - just post it in the comments section!  

OK I know what we are going to eat.  Now what to do?

Sea u later!   Subject:  Celebrate like a local!  Part 2