Carla and I have been working like dogs!
A few weeks ago I opened the cockpit floor to install a generator and found that I really didn’t like how the cockpit floor was constructed.
Somebody during the life of Splendid moved the binnacle forward 18 inches which was the right thing to do, but they didn’t do the job properly. So being the perfectionist that I am I grabbed my sawzall and started cutting away and building.
A few days into the project a friend called us with a charter 
opportunity in the San Blas and Carla and I have been working 10-13 hours a day for the past weeks.
We just got the binnacle bolted down yesterday with no time to spare. We are off to the San Blas on Monday and will stay a few months.
Carla and I are becoming expert Roll & Tip painters and Splendid will truly be a yacht of beauty when she is 
finished. Most importantly I’ll feel 100% comfortable with her construction before venturing across another ocean.
My investment into Splendid has been a long one. I’ve been working on her for about 6 years now but will have the yacht I want to retire on. Solid under foot, swift in the sea, beautiful, and comfortable.
Carla has also been working the sailrite machine hard 
building us a new settee.
I must say I’m quite fond of my new wife. We are the best of friends, and we are on the same team, with the same agenda(freedom, peace, and harmony).
We will be ready to cross the Pacific by next March!
Oh yeah, one more thing. I’ve always wanted a MaxProp 
but could never even think of affording one. Well, good karma paid off and one fell into my lap for $300.
My goal is that of a sailor, not a motor sailor, and the reduced drag of the MaxProp will play a big part in that. I bought one for my Hunter 34 about 14 years ago and couldn’t believe the increased performance under power, under sail, and the luxury of having 100% power and being able to maneuver in reve
rse. MaxProps RULE!!!!!
The one I scored is in very, very good shape (no pitting or corrosion) and just needs a new zinc at the end.
Well, that’s it for today. I just booked a second charter in mid-March, and if anyone is interested to see the truly magnificent (postcard paradise) San Blas Islands for just $150 a day P/P (meals included) let me know now or 
forever hold you tongue.
Sail far and live slowly.
– alex
Sounds like things are coming along nicely. It’s good to watch as you and Carla carve out your place in this World. Enjoy the San Blas and stay in touch.
We’ve had a screwy weather pattern lately here cold and rainy. Kind of like winter. Go figure. But the weather is breaking and we are back in the 80’s as of yesterday. Charters are finely picking up.
Best of luck and sail safe. My best to Carla…
Capt. Paul
s/v Panacea
Alex, The day is here and its time to spread my wings and let the winds carry me to where I’m suppose to go. But I have one problem… I have $20,000.00 and I want to go buy my first open water sail boat, and set sail. I’ve followed you for the last 4 years and i have finally reached the place in my life that I able to set sail… I loved you last vessel, and if I’m not right it’s one of your favorite vessels. But for the money, what you you go buy, right now…Thank you for your time. And by the way I love , love , love what you both have done to your wonderful floating home. she is look breathe taking. I so hope to cross paths with you in the open waters…