Sorry I’ve been quiet, but either Carla or I have been sick with the Flu for weeks. It was a particularly tough battle as I got it twice. We are just coming out of it. NO FUN!
I’m really looking forward to getting back to working on our new gourmet galley, especially as our stove arrives at the end of the week, YEEEEHHHHAAAAA!!!!
In this photo I still need to install the counter trim and clean up all the paint, I’m a messy painter. You can see the watermaker at the end of the counter, 
what a wonderful thing! We ran out of water when I was sick and all I had to do was start the motor, push a button, and twist a knob, how cool is that?
When I was in Tahiti in 2007 with Namaste I had a vision. I wanted a larger, simple, and humble Yacht that I could comfortably grow old upon. I had no money to speak of, but as usual, the world conspired to help me along my way.
Splendid was a rats-nest of structural, electrical, and mechanical work, and I often think I should have just built a boat from scratch. But in the end, she is turning out to be a wonderful home with a warm feel, and I can feel her willingness to return to the South Pacific harboring Carla and I.
Just before my second bout with the flu I took apart the helm and proceeded to build a new dash as I didn’t want to paint, fumigating the boat while Carla lay sick in 
the stern.
Splendid’s instruments were original 1973, and not working for the most part.
We got new Faria gauges about 6 months ago and I just haven’t gotten around to installing them. I cut a piece of nice hardwood for the dash as I’m always looking for that “classic” feeling for Splendid, and varnished it while Carla was recovering.
As soon as she felt better I was occupying the bed once again with 103 fever. Carla asked me, “do you mind if I cut the holes for the dash”?
I had no strength to stand. Of course I didn’t mind, and when I stumbled into the cockpit I found her covered in sawdust grinning at the beautiful new dashboard.
I’m such a lucky guy!
Finances are low and I’m going to try to start wrapping all the projects up. The cockpit is filled with plywood, sheets of foam for the refrigeration box, tools, and tons of other stuff.
I either have to find some charter work or make a run to Cartagena with some backpackers. Carla’s never been to Colombia and I kind of miss it, so it might be fun?
I’m still feeling a bit off today so I’m going to take it slow.
Peace from Splendid.
Sail far and live slowly.
– alex