Okay, I have to admit something, we got a $100 washing machine. I know, I know “minimalism” right?
Every time we go to the French marina to do laundry it ends-up costing about $40 for 3/4 loads, and takes 3-6 hours (waiting). They only have 2 washers and 1 drier. They have the only paid washing machines for 40 miles so they are in hi-demand.
Carla and I were in the city about a month ago and bought this little machine. Its only 27’ across and fits perfectly
in the corner of the aft head. Needless to say in the last 6 weeks the machine has more than paid for itself, not to mention the fact we don’t need to burn fuel to get to the marina. And we have been using rain water from the dinghy for our laundry. I’m getting a little soft as every day I have clean and good-smelling clothes.
Carla and I celebrated by buying a can of our favorite beers, I’m the Guinness guy!
We have had some real protesting here in Panama. The president sold public land to over-seas investors. The land was part of the free-zone and the rental profits were for Colon (hospitals & education). Needless to say the people of Panama were outraged and took to burning, breaking, and rioting. The reaction amongst me and my friends is unanimous, we support the people and it’s really nice and healthy to see the people fight for what’s right.
I also have to comment on Carla’s canvas work. She really takes the time to make everything right and is producing some top-notch work.
Carla sez she is going to start doing some canvas work soon to help supplement our micro-income. What a modern world we live in, women working, what’s up with that?
She just finished our dodger brim. The brim allows us to keep the front dodger window open all the time and keeps the rain out. Now we always have a nice breeze blowing through the cockpit, and into the aft-cabin. 
Anyway I just wanted to check in. I’m taking a little break from the book. I’ve really fallen in love with rowing everywhere. It’s particularly peaceful at night when nobody hears us pass, and we can hear all the music and conversations in whatever language coming from other boats.
Life is grand. Live every day as your last and love as hard as you can.
Peace from paradise.
– alex