Monday, July 28, 2014

Launching of Grace

This past Friday, July 25, our new boat, Grace, was launched.  It is a  1995 40 ft Beneteau Oceanis.







It had been out of the water since June 27 when it was pulled after the sea trial for a new bottom paint job and a few repairs. We used the new Bridgeton Boatworks Yard.  The owner, managers, and workers were all very nice and  knowledgeable. We were happy with the service we received there.

Brian, Luke, Jacob and Nathan motored it down to Blackbeard Sailing Club.  They were not able to sail because as you can see, the water was glass, no wind.  Caleb rode back with me in the van to wait for them.  It took about an hour to go about 4 miles down river.




Brian got her right into our new slip like he'd been doing it for years.

They got in around 4pm.  The next few hours were spent getting the lines just so. There are double lines at each of the four posts.  You have to have them adjusted just right so the boat can move up and down with the water level, but not bang any of the posts or dock.  We also got some gear loaded on board, made beds, etc.

The rest of the weekend was spent cleaning off and on, filling the water tanks,and little odd jobs. One job was sanding and adding stain/varnish  to a couple of the teak places on the sugar scoop. I didn't get any pictures taken inside.  I will have to do that soon and get them posted on here. We are still learning where we will put stuff.



Brian got out the dinghy and put the motor on. Something broke on it, so he spent some time fixing it. Once fixed, he took the boys out for rides. Here he is with Jacob.



When we eventually go cruising, this dinghy will be our car. It is used for when you are anchored out and need to get to shore for supplies, sight seeing, etc.




Ephesians 2:8-9  For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.

Wednesday, July 16, 2014

Changing Names

The boat we bought was named Carpe Diem; Latin for Seize the Day.

It was a nice enough name, but we wanted to change it.

We decided on Grace.

Several people have told us we need to have an elaborate name changing ceremony.

I looked up the ceremony this morning and was not impressed.

It is basically praying to the god of the sea, Neptune and giving a wine offering.

No thanks.  I serve the One True God and do not need to be sinning against Him by asking a mythical character to protect our boat.

I looked up boat blessings and came across this one.

A Blessing For A Boat
May Nicholas and Brendan bless this craft
Many angels dance above its deck
To ward off dangers fore and aft
From wind and wave and sunken wreck
All who sail it may they protect
And may all who cruise this mighty lake
Treat it always with wise respect
Ano foolish risks ever take.


We can change the first line to May God Almighty bless this craft...