I am thrilled to be in Destin instead of Apalachicola (where i was planning to be now.) Apalachicola has 73mph winds. I'm told i'll get rain and some 20mph gusts. I'm sitting - hunkered - down below deck wearing out a path to the cockpit via the companionway. I run up and down the ladder to watch the weather and the dark black clouds headed my way. Looks like rain coming a mile out! Yep, the first brief squall blew through. 16mph winds and rain for five minutes. Now i've got the boat all closed up and it's steamy hot below. But it's gonna rain again so i'll just sweat and keep it closed.
I spent the morning getting ready 'for a storm.' I took the outboard engine and mounted it on the rail. Emptied the dingy and tested the plug to insure any / all rain could drain. Then i strapped it all down tight so it wont bounce or pull. Next i tied a 150' line onto my backup anchor in case i drag, so it's ready to deploy. (i see in the photo i forgot the chain... darn rookie mistake)
Then i had lunch and a short nap. Figured i might lose some sleep if things get hinky tonight.
The last thing i did was notice a single pelican attacking his lunch. He was going crazy eating fish. Plus two Seagulls were bothering him trying to steal his catch. (Pirates)
Gotta run to watch the weather and sit in the cockpit to see if the wind has changed.
Look out for Pirates! -Capn Skip
