Dry Dock

Yesterday was the perfect autumn day to haul Sparkle Plenty from the lake. You could not have asked for better conditions.

Here's me (ladder), son-in-law Keith (bow) and son Scott securing the mast.

Keith is showing how skillful he is in catching a bridle I tossed to him.  The bridle attaches to the mast and is hoisted.  Another line is attached to the bridle and to a strap on the trailer winch.  The line is tightened to relieve pressure on the headstay (holding the mast to the bow).  A pin holding the headstay is taken off.  The mast is then lowered. 

It goes without saying that there are always adjustments and things that so sideways instead of straight up.  Here's one of them.

One of Grace's classmates and her family (grandmother Helen and mom Sherry) turned out to watch.  Gracie's helping her friend Kendall up onto the boat while I stand by in case she slips.

Shipmates!

Ain't they cute?

Now that the boat is parked in the RV spot alongside the house winter repairs, upgrades and shine can take place.   There's always something needing done.   New windows.  Replace the headstay.  Touch up the bottom paint.  Drain the outboard motor oil and put in fresh oil.  Replace one of the two on board batteries.  Replace the gas tank valve.  Re-wire the three mast lights.  Etc.  Etc.  Etc.  Wax top and bottom.  Put back in the water March or April.