"The heavens declare the glory of God." Psalm 19:1 Sunrise from Taka Trois over the Port des Minimes, La Rochelle
A boat is many things, but during the days leading up to her first major passage, it’s one big frigging puzzle. We’re talking square pegs in roundish holes here as we try to creatively stow away gear and massive amounts of provisions into unusual geometric spaces. As of last night, we successfully solved the Taka Trois ‘puzzle‘ and have managed to find a place for everything we imagine we might possibly need for our imminent departure today, including, I must sheepishly admit, foie gras and champagne and yes! These items will surely qualify as a need at some point on our journey. After all, we are both French now!
So, the good news is: The essential work has been done, repairs completed, the satellite phone functions and Michel, our weather router has informed us that we have a perfect 3 day weather window to cross the Bay of Biscay over to Vigo, Spain as of this evening. The errant sail has still not been delivered, but it is promised for this afternoon. One of our young friends who has been helping us get the boat ready will help us to install it and test it right before we go and then, God willing, we will be on our way.
It is very touching that Taka Trois’ honorary Godparents, Alain and Lysiane Gerbier, a couple who set off from this port in 1991 for a 12 year trip around the world, who have inspired us and regaled us with many captivating and saucy stories and much good advice, will be present to cast off our mooring lines.
Before I sign off, I must tell you how moved we are by the many encouraging comments and well wishes that we have received on this blog and in messages from you. When one is heading off into the blue yonder like this, it’s reassuring to know that there is a support network behind. Of course, we know that the Big Guy is behind us as well as besides us and ahead of us at all times, but nevertheless we would greatly appreciate your prayers for a safe and easy passage.
My next missive will be from (hopefully) sunny Spain, which we hope to reach by Friday, August 10th, our 27th wedding anniversary. Hasta luego mis amigos!
So, the good news is: The essential work has been done, repairs completed, the satellite phone functions and Michel, our weather router has informed us that we have a perfect 3 day weather window to cross the Bay of Biscay over to Vigo, Spain as of this evening. The errant sail has still not been delivered, but it is promised for this afternoon. One of our young friends who has been helping us get the boat ready will help us to install it and test it right before we go and then, God willing, we will be on our way.
It is very touching that Taka Trois’ honorary Godparents, Alain and Lysiane Gerbier, a couple who set off from this port in 1991 for a 12 year trip around the world, who have inspired us and regaled us with many captivating and saucy stories and much good advice, will be present to cast off our mooring lines.
Before I sign off, I must tell you how moved we are by the many encouraging comments and well wishes that we have received on this blog and in messages from you. When one is heading off into the blue yonder like this, it’s reassuring to know that there is a support network behind. Of course, we know that the Big Guy is behind us as well as besides us and ahead of us at all times, but nevertheless we would greatly appreciate your prayers for a safe and easy passage.
My next missive will be from (hopefully) sunny Spain, which we hope to reach by Friday, August 10th, our 27th wedding anniversary. Hasta luego mis amigos!
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