Knowing that we’re going to be house sitting this summer, we’ve begun a list of projects we want to tackle while we are off the boat. Some of them are important to the operational status of Dream Catcher, like servicing both main engines as well as the dinghy motors and the little Honda generator. Others are less mission critical, but more geared towards day to day enjoyment, like a new set of directors chairs to match Megabrella.

Also high on the list is to repair our freezer that succumbed to a stab wound last fall during an unfortunate de-icing incident. I’ve finally secured the parts and I am going to attempt repairs while we have the use of Bailey’s well stocked work shop.

I also need to re-stitch our now 7 year old bimini as two of the seams are starting to let go. While we’re at it, we will be adding drop down wind scoops to the bat wings that will slide down out of small pockets and attach to four of our forward facing hatches. The scoops will be made of rip stop nylon and the storage pockets will probably just be white Sunbrella so that they match the bat wings. The idea behind the scoops is to help increase air flow into the boat during the hot, summer season.

Another project we’re tossing around is some sort of boat based mount for Megabrella on the foredeck. We rarely go up onto the trampoline during the summer months because with the sun directly overhead and no shade over it, the trampoline is more like one of those convenience store, hot dog cookers than it is some place you’d want to hang out.

I’ve already drawn up plans for a hammock that we can use either on Dream Catcher or on the beach. It too, will be done in the Megabrella theme and initial drawings have it coming in at just over 9 feet in length, 5 feet in width and capable of holding two normal sized peoples. Of course, having said all that, I won’t personally be trying out the Megabrella hammock until it has been approved for flight by either our friend Jim Noe, or if he isn’t available, Jon from Freebird, as they are the only real test pilots I know.

Trust me, I’ve seen the way I build stuff. There is no way in hell I’m going to be the first one to get on this ride. More to follow, end of line ….

P.S. – Today’s picture is of one of the numerous “Infestation Creatures” that are over-running our beaches this year. In ten years down here, I’ve never seen so many of these little people. This one is name Eliah and she just learned to walk two days ago. I’m pretty sure we could get top dollar for her on E-Bay, but I don't think her mom will let me sell her.