Engine heating problem solved, we're now in a weather system that's blowing a hoolie across the marina pond, creating waves and taking boats sideways against their will down to the service platform, there to stay until the next lull. There was a lull one evening.
Never mind the wind, though. There's still work to be done on board.
The taffrail had been looming over us for weeks; months, maybe. For those who don't know, the taffrail is a rail around the stern, the very back of the boat, acting to prevent people from falling off. It looks as though it could be a good place to sit, but to do so is considered potentially very dangerous. We know of several cases of the skipper being knocked off backwards by branches overhanging the water, or low bridges. There have been fatalities.
Our taffrail is wooden, and sits on a metal frame. Both had been subjected to years of rain and, we discovered, lack of adequate waterproofing. The wooden rail is made out of several pieces joined together end to end by wooden "biscuits" in opposing slots. These had rotted, and needed to be replaced, after which the renewed rail had to have several coats of paint, as did the metal frame on which it sits. Grace bravely took on this task. It was slow and laborious but, finally, the taffrail was reinstalled yesterday, while the wind was a little less fierce.
Goodness, what weather, Roger! We'd welcome a bit of that rain here, really. Well, I wouldn't but the farmers and gardens are desperate for rain. Your taffrail looks lovely. Did you repair the woodwork yourselves as well? The tasks are never done, are they? We too have much to do. By the way, I see you have a new cover for Out of the Sunrise. I like the pooch!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Val. Grace repaired the woodwork - in fact, she pretty much took over the whole job. She has a habit of doing that, so I'm busy making a list of things that need doing!
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