When we’re in port there’s so much to do: wash the boat, do the laundry, clean the head, the fridge, stretch the legs, explore and learn about the area, write postcards, send emails, stock groceries, write texts.
While we’re underway there’s also much to do.
This morning, after departing Monterey (still in the fog) my shift for assisting the helm was already in full swing. However, since not much was happening up top, I went to the galley and prepared breakfast, baked muffins and brownies, and cleaned up. My 4 hour shift at the helm began before my galley work was complete, so MY assistant assisted me by taking the helm. Soon, I was finished and took my place being ‘in charge’, examining the plotter for signs of other vessels nearby, searching the water ahead for crab pots, logs, or other debris which could harm Quijote, maintain our speed and direction, and plug in to listen to a downloaded book. An hour and a half later is back to the galley and fix 3 o’clock sandwiches to go with Rod’s famous broccoli salad. Clean up. Another half hour at the helm, then back to the galley to prep dinner so the guys can eat when they’re ready. I’ll sleep thru dinner in order to keep my chin up from 10 til 2am, my next watch.
Although I don’t want to give up my time at the helm, on days like this helming puts me to sleep and I’m thankful for work to do in the galley. Besides, the rest of the crew is much appreciative of the efforts and fresh baked muffins. I’m pretty sure they wouldn’t mind a constant supply of brownies too.
Never a dull moment!
