The Short version:
I am sailing to the Bahamas
starting about 2/12th.
Long version: it's been a frantic last few days / weeks as i make lists, scratch through stuff and then rewrite the lists. I am starting to gather spare parts, and provision food for a 3 month cruise over to the Bahamas. Cousin Rick - the boy scout leg wrapper from past sails - is volunteering to do the gulf stream crossing and help sail to Marsh Harbor, Abaco Bahamas. That's as far as my plans have firmed up. I'm thinking if i make it to the Abacos and back to Florida, it's a success story. Any adventures along the way are a plus. Now to await a weather window to cross the Gulf Stream.
Oil, Hydraulic, Filters
'Parts' New Fishing must haves
Cases of canned stuff.
Now what's been happening?
I went yesterday to the Dentist. My NEW healthcare.gov (aka Obama Care) has taken over from the old work COBRA so i'm trying to get any needed medical stuff handled prior to departure. I thought the dentist would do a simple cleaning and then send me on my way with their blessings for safe travels. NO! "skip you have a cracked porcelain crown that has to be replaced. plus three tiny cavities that need to be fixed now." (damn) $1,800 (double damn) But they fit me into their busy schedule to get me fixed up before next weekend. So, grin, bear it, smile. First thing, fix the crown.... 
Dr. Tran, Scary Terry, Me droopy.
take an impression
Loving this stuff
'now spit'
Aint life grand! Next get a prescription refilled with a 3 month supply. Buy a new belt. Gather my TAX stuff and get that started. Fill out a cruise plan on the Customs Border Patrol website, find a spot to store my car, have a diver clean the boat bottom, test all boat systems, check all running lights, get the rest of the food. (how many paper towels do you need?) I'm still trying to determine how much coffee will i drink in 3 months?
*Lynn - the question sister - before you ask, let me just tell you. YES, they have coffee in the Bahamas. And paper towels and canned stuff. But everything is very expensive over there because it's imported and shipped. Plus there is no competition. One small store with limited inventory can charge whatever they want. So, best to bring it with you on your boat.
That's enough for now. Gotta go run find that belt. - Skip with a Smile
