Friday, December 13, 2013

Clearwater on South to Madeira Beach, Dec 6th - 9th


Friday - Monday, December 6th - 9th

We left our anchorage at Palm Harbor heading south to Madeira Beach arriving at 3 PM.  There we met up with an acquaintance from previous travels.  Last season, while on our way to the Alabama/Florida state line to begin our solar passage, we encountered troubles with the diesel engine so, in the middle of the night, with the howling winds, we blew into Steinhatchie for repairs.  Fortunately for us, we were led to a guy named Smoky who we were told was a top notch diesel mechanic and that he was.  With a little logistical support from a lady named "Just June", Smoky was able to get Big Ben (as we affectionately call the diesel) running again better than it had run in a while and we were back on our way.  Now our paths have crossed again in Madeira Beach for a couple days and since Smokey and his brother Mike are heading South as well, we will likely see each other again.

 
Smoky and Clyde, Smoky's brother Mike and Sissy = good people!
 
We are always looking for local knowledge of whatever area we are in and Smoky told us of a place that we could beach the stern of the boat that just happened to be just around the corner and since we were "itching" to put the sticker on the stern of the boat ... it was a no brainer...off to the Micky Dees dock we went. 
 
 


Once the water receded Carter was able to inspect the rudder and prop and saw that the zincs were in dire need of attention.  Then on to the business of putting the sticker on the stern! 



 
We are now officially the "Archimedes". 
 
 

With these two projects complete it was time to continue heading south.
 
Just as soon as the tide comes back in!
 

Sunrise over the Golden Arches at the McDonald's
A short walk to our Egg McMuffins this morning. 
 

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