25 Dec. 2016 Sun.
1330 Local
Position: 07° 20.28 N 137° 27.07 E
Moored
Three and a half months and it has taken a holiday to get me inspired to do some sort of an update. MERRY CHRISTMAS !!!
Since our arrival here in Palau we have not been truly busy and enjoyed just hanging out and catching up on relaxing. There has been some work done and also a very nice visit from our friend Connie. A trip to the Rock Island area of Palau, lots of swimming in the lovely warm and clear water either while on our mooring or during our Rock Island trip.
There have also been some setbacks. Kathy had to make a trip to Guam to see an eye doctor, nothing serious as it turned out. My engine work of replacing the rear main oil seal was a failure and we continue to have a substantial leak when running the engine. Something that will be taken care of in the future. Our water maker needs to be looked at again as the product water is not up to standards. Biggest on the list would be suffering a fractured patella on my newly replaced knee. I will be coming to the states in mid January to have it and the other knee that I injured just prior to leaving the Philippines looked at.
This is a lovely place and as we have just gotten resident status for the State of Koror the boat can stay here and as we as US citizens get one year visas we may be staying for an extended time. Others have told us that it is expensive here but we are not finding that so. Our mooring is only $50 a month and groceries or eating out are not really more than in the states.
That may catch things up a little and hopefully I will be a little more timely with future entries.
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Saturday, December 24, 2016
Friday, September 9, 2016
OUR PASSAGE, THE GOOD AND BAD
09 Sept. 2016 Fri.
1730 local
Position: 07° 20.287 N 134° 27.076 E
Moored
We have been here in Palau now for one week, trying to get used to the cruising lifestyle once again. There has been lots of small boat things to take care of and also exploring the new town of Koror here on the island of Palau. We are moored off Sam's Tours, a dive business operated by an American expat that first arrived here in the mid 1980's. Sam's is also the home of the Royal Belau Yacht Club to which for $35 we are now members. Our mooring fees are $50 per month. The restaurant at Sam's is good serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Kathy likes the white wine they serve and 14 oz. draft beers that are brewed here on the island at $4.50, all money here is in US dollars.
Here is a summery of our passage. We traveled 585 nautical miles in 144 hours, so an average speed of 4 knots. 114 hours was motoring and a measly 30 hours sailing. We burned approximately 80 gallons worth of dinosaurs. In leaving Mindanao we knew we were in for light to no wind but we needed to escape the Philippines at all costs. We had had enough of the threats there of terrorist activities. It was while underway that we were told of the latest bombing that took place in Davao. We are happy to finally be away from there. We did experience a number of mechanical problems the worst of which was lots of oil leaks from our faithful auxiliary engine Miss Perky. I don't believe sitting around and not running much during the previous 18 months did her gaskets any favors. The biggest leak was from a rear main oil seal which I knew was bad but had not addressed. We had a wire on the alternator break which caused us to lose the tachometer reading but that was an easy fix. Thankfully the biggest issues, losing the raw water pump pulley did turn out to be an easy fix thanks to Kathy's quick action stopping the engine and the final problem we discovered after clearing customs and heading to Sam's. A raw water exhaust hose that had it totally failed would have shot salt water throughout the engine room. Again Kathy saw the bilge pump light stay on for to long of a time and had me check things, some temporary tape and next thing we were safely on our mooring. the big positive we had were the lack of fuel problems that had plagued us when we came from Cebu to Mindanao. We definitely enjoyed how well our new auto pilot worked. the AIS which tracks other ship traffic was great. Keeping us advised of potential collision courses long before we could see the ship visually.
All in all other than it being a basic motor boat ride it was a fine passage.
Today was spent looking into what has become my newest health issue. Just prior to leaving Ocean View Marina I being in to much of a hurry attempted to go up two stairs at once, pulling something in my last remaining leg joint that has not become bionic. I have no real idea of the problem but something soft tissue related. We visited the hospital today. Of course there is no orthopedic doctor here or facilities for an MRI.
X-rays were taken and there appears to be no damage to any of the bones, no MRI means no way to see soft tissue damage. There is a physiotherapist on island who has been highly recommended but that will wait till next week. My hospital visit was very inexpensive! The doctor I saw, knee x-rays, a Tylenol/codeine prescription and a short time with the hospital physical therapist all for $47.
We now have lots of new things to experience here in Palau.
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1730 local
Position: 07° 20.287 N 134° 27.076 E
Moored
We have been here in Palau now for one week, trying to get used to the cruising lifestyle once again. There has been lots of small boat things to take care of and also exploring the new town of Koror here on the island of Palau. We are moored off Sam's Tours, a dive business operated by an American expat that first arrived here in the mid 1980's. Sam's is also the home of the Royal Belau Yacht Club to which for $35 we are now members. Our mooring fees are $50 per month. The restaurant at Sam's is good serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Kathy likes the white wine they serve and 14 oz. draft beers that are brewed here on the island at $4.50, all money here is in US dollars.
Here is a summery of our passage. We traveled 585 nautical miles in 144 hours, so an average speed of 4 knots. 114 hours was motoring and a measly 30 hours sailing. We burned approximately 80 gallons worth of dinosaurs. In leaving Mindanao we knew we were in for light to no wind but we needed to escape the Philippines at all costs. We had had enough of the threats there of terrorist activities. It was while underway that we were told of the latest bombing that took place in Davao. We are happy to finally be away from there. We did experience a number of mechanical problems the worst of which was lots of oil leaks from our faithful auxiliary engine Miss Perky. I don't believe sitting around and not running much during the previous 18 months did her gaskets any favors. The biggest leak was from a rear main oil seal which I knew was bad but had not addressed. We had a wire on the alternator break which caused us to lose the tachometer reading but that was an easy fix. Thankfully the biggest issues, losing the raw water pump pulley did turn out to be an easy fix thanks to Kathy's quick action stopping the engine and the final problem we discovered after clearing customs and heading to Sam's. A raw water exhaust hose that had it totally failed would have shot salt water throughout the engine room. Again Kathy saw the bilge pump light stay on for to long of a time and had me check things, some temporary tape and next thing we were safely on our mooring. the big positive we had were the lack of fuel problems that had plagued us when we came from Cebu to Mindanao. We definitely enjoyed how well our new auto pilot worked. the AIS which tracks other ship traffic was great. Keeping us advised of potential collision courses long before we could see the ship visually.
All in all other than it being a basic motor boat ride it was a fine passage.
Today was spent looking into what has become my newest health issue. Just prior to leaving Ocean View Marina I being in to much of a hurry attempted to go up two stairs at once, pulling something in my last remaining leg joint that has not become bionic. I have no real idea of the problem but something soft tissue related. We visited the hospital today. Of course there is no orthopedic doctor here or facilities for an MRI.
X-rays were taken and there appears to be no damage to any of the bones, no MRI means no way to see soft tissue damage. There is a physiotherapist on island who has been highly recommended but that will wait till next week. My hospital visit was very inexpensive! The doctor I saw, knee x-rays, a Tylenol/codeine prescription and a short time with the hospital physical therapist all for $47.
We now have lots of new things to experience here in Palau.
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Saturday, September 3, 2016
SAFE ARRIVAL IN PALAU
03 Sept. Sat. 2016
0630 local
Position: 07° 20.287 N 134° 27.076 E
Moored
A quick safe arrival message. At 1145 yesterday 2 Sept. we docked at the Malakal port wharf to clear customs, immigration and quarantine.
Once completed we continued to our present location.
Last night was the after passage sleep of the dead, another update soon to follow.
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0630 local
Position: 07° 20.287 N 134° 27.076 E
Moored
A quick safe arrival message. At 1145 yesterday 2 Sept. we docked at the Malakal port wharf to clear customs, immigration and quarantine.
Once completed we continued to our present location.
Last night was the after passage sleep of the dead, another update soon to follow.
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Thursday, September 1, 2016
PASSAGE TO PALAU DAY 6
1600 Hrs. Local
Position: 06° 47 N 133° 30 E
Course: 094° Mag
Speed: 4.9 Kts.
Wind: NNE @ 8 Kts.
We continue motoring along toward Palau. We have an ETA of 0600 tomorrow morning plus or minus as we can make speed adjustments. We hope to actually enter the pass about 0800 with the sun behind us for visibility, arriving for customs and immigration clearance about 1000.
Today's bit of fun was Kathy waking me from an off watch nap and saying there had been a banging noise in the engine room and she had shut the engine down. On checking I found the pulley on the raw water pump had come off. Draping over the hot engine I managed to retrieve the pulley and then using a new key and nut from a spare pump put things back together. An hour of fun in the hot confines of Miss Perky's engine room.
It's good these things happen on Kathy's watch as she always hears the sounds and then reacts correctly.
All is well aboard and we are looking forward to tomorrows arrival.
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Position: 06° 47 N 133° 30 E
Course: 094° Mag
Speed: 4.9 Kts.
Wind: NNE @ 8 Kts.
We continue motoring along toward Palau. We have an ETA of 0600 tomorrow morning plus or minus as we can make speed adjustments. We hope to actually enter the pass about 0800 with the sun behind us for visibility, arriving for customs and immigration clearance about 1000.
Today's bit of fun was Kathy waking me from an off watch nap and saying there had been a banging noise in the engine room and she had shut the engine down. On checking I found the pulley on the raw water pump had come off. Draping over the hot engine I managed to retrieve the pulley and then using a new key and nut from a spare pump put things back together. An hour of fun in the hot confines of Miss Perky's engine room.
It's good these things happen on Kathy's watch as she always hears the sounds and then reacts correctly.
All is well aboard and we are looking forward to tomorrows arrival.
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Wednesday, August 31, 2016
PASSAGE TO PALAU DAY 5
1600 Hrs Local
Position: 06° 38 N 131° 52 E
Course: 084° Mag
Speed: 4.7 Kts.
Wind: Nil
We continue to motor along. I'm glad we have plenty of fuel. we were able to sail today for two short periods and without Miss Perky providing propulsion we would be drifting with our still favorable current.
It is quiet aboard as we have adapted to our 4 hour watch schedule.
Last nights ship contacts were with two Japanese ships, both having AIS and listed as pleasure craft. Most likely fishermen of some type.
Today's mystery was why a nearly empty water tank kept venting as i attempted to fill it. In stead we filled buckets and Kathy did some laundry.
All is well aboard and we have a projected arrival in Palau of Friday 2 Sept. in the morning hours.
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Position: 06° 38 N 131° 52 E
Course: 084° Mag
Speed: 4.7 Kts.
Wind: Nil
We continue to motor along. I'm glad we have plenty of fuel. we were able to sail today for two short periods and without Miss Perky providing propulsion we would be drifting with our still favorable current.
It is quiet aboard as we have adapted to our 4 hour watch schedule.
Last nights ship contacts were with two Japanese ships, both having AIS and listed as pleasure craft. Most likely fishermen of some type.
Today's mystery was why a nearly empty water tank kept venting as i attempted to fill it. In stead we filled buckets and Kathy did some laundry.
All is well aboard and we have a projected arrival in Palau of Friday 2 Sept. in the morning hours.
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Tuesday, August 30, 2016
PASSAGE TO PALAU DAY 4
1700 Hrs. Local- Palau
Position: 06° 30 N 130° 02 E
Course: 093° Mag
Speed: 4.9 Kts.
Wind : E @ 5 Kts.
The past 25 hours have been motoring with wind, though light, on the nose. We do have about 1 kt. of favorable current. Clear sunny sky's and a calm blue ocean.
Several ships last night on crossing patterns but the one instance that could have been a problem solved by the AIS and Open CPN charting software. We were warned of what could have been a crossing situation resulting in a [ closest point of approach ] or CPA of 200 yards with a 275 meter LPG Carrier when they were at a distance of 20 nautical miles from us. As we were the burdened vessel, we change course and ended up with a CPA of 4 nm's. Modern navigation aids are great. We have no radar and if we had it would not have given us as much advance warning as the AIS.
We have 270 nm to the east pass entrance to Palau. Hopefully arriving Friday morning.
All is well aboard
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Position: 06° 30 N 130° 02 E
Course: 093° Mag
Speed: 4.9 Kts.
Wind : E @ 5 Kts.
The past 25 hours have been motoring with wind, though light, on the nose. We do have about 1 kt. of favorable current. Clear sunny sky's and a calm blue ocean.
Several ships last night on crossing patterns but the one instance that could have been a problem solved by the AIS and Open CPN charting software. We were warned of what could have been a crossing situation resulting in a [ closest point of approach ] or CPA of 200 yards with a 275 meter LPG Carrier when they were at a distance of 20 nautical miles from us. As we were the burdened vessel, we change course and ended up with a CPA of 4 nm's. Modern navigation aids are great. We have no radar and if we had it would not have given us as much advance warning as the AIS.
We have 270 nm to the east pass entrance to Palau. Hopefully arriving Friday morning.
All is well aboard
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Monday, August 29, 2016
PASSAGE TO PALAU DAY 3
1730 Hrs. Local
Position: 06° 23 N 128° 29 E
Course: 100° Mag
Speed: 4.7 Kts.
Wind: e @ 9 Kts.
The sun has just set and after sailing most of the day we are motoring along.
Just after sending yesterdays report the wind changed and we were able to sail until 0230 this morning.
The water maker was re-commissioned this afternoon after installing the new membranes.
All is well aboard
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Position: 06° 23 N 128° 29 E
Course: 100° Mag
Speed: 4.7 Kts.
Wind: e @ 9 Kts.
The sun has just set and after sailing most of the day we are motoring along.
Just after sending yesterdays report the wind changed and we were able to sail until 0230 this morning.
The water maker was re-commissioned this afternoon after installing the new membranes.
All is well aboard
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Sunday, August 28, 2016
PASSAGE TO PALAU DAY 2
1400 Hrs. Local
Position: 06° 18 N 126° 39 E
Course: 080° Mag
Speed: 4.7 Kts.
Wind: ESE @ 5 Kts.
We are on a motor boat ride. Weather for next several days continues light wind. All is well aboard. We did manage to sail for a short time today during a squall but now it's gentle seas and sunny.
Leaving Samal island yesterday and heading down the gulf we had 20 Kts of wind on the nose and a slow trip. today at least we have no adverse wind and we are experiencing a favorable current of about 1/2 Kt.
We have plenty of fuel to motor but Miss Perky is having some minor oil leakage and we would really like a bit of wind to give her a rest and sail. Our new auto pilot is functioning properly though we did have a hard time remembering how to turn the unit on until I got the manual out. Now if we could figure out how to dim the display brightness night operation would be nicer.
Several ships have shown up on the AIS but nothing to close. So far we have seen no fishermen or the large floating fish attracting devices called FAD's.
All is well aboard
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Position: 06° 18 N 126° 39 E
Course: 080° Mag
Speed: 4.7 Kts.
Wind: ESE @ 5 Kts.
We are on a motor boat ride. Weather for next several days continues light wind. All is well aboard. We did manage to sail for a short time today during a squall but now it's gentle seas and sunny.
Leaving Samal island yesterday and heading down the gulf we had 20 Kts of wind on the nose and a slow trip. today at least we have no adverse wind and we are experiencing a favorable current of about 1/2 Kt.
We have plenty of fuel to motor but Miss Perky is having some minor oil leakage and we would really like a bit of wind to give her a rest and sail. Our new auto pilot is functioning properly though we did have a hard time remembering how to turn the unit on until I got the manual out. Now if we could figure out how to dim the display brightness night operation would be nicer.
Several ships have shown up on the AIS but nothing to close. So far we have seen no fishermen or the large floating fish attracting devices called FAD's.
All is well aboard
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Thursday, August 25, 2016
BELIEVE IT OR NOT!!!!!
Ocean View Marina
Samal Island, Davao
Mindanao, Philippines
I know that I have been VERY negligent in updating the blog. It has been two months since any updates. Lots has gone on and it has been very busy here. Kathy returned from her trip back to the states a month ago and since then getting ready to leave the Philippines has been our number one priority. We are finally ready.
Today we checked out of the country with immigration and customs and will leave the marina Saturday the 27 th. Hopefully our new but untested auto pilot will cooperate and we will remember how to sail. It has been 18 long months here in the marina.
The passage from here to Palau is 550 nautical miles so depending on wind and weather four to five days. The south westerly monsoon has filled in so the wind is with us along with a favorable equatorial counter current that flows east varying from 1/2 to 2 knots. We just need to locate it to take full advantage.
I will hopefully blog our position and weather condition updates during the passage.
Samal Island, Davao
Mindanao, Philippines
I know that I have been VERY negligent in updating the blog. It has been two months since any updates. Lots has gone on and it has been very busy here. Kathy returned from her trip back to the states a month ago and since then getting ready to leave the Philippines has been our number one priority. We are finally ready.
Today we checked out of the country with immigration and customs and will leave the marina Saturday the 27 th. Hopefully our new but untested auto pilot will cooperate and we will remember how to sail. It has been 18 long months here in the marina.
The passage from here to Palau is 550 nautical miles so depending on wind and weather four to five days. The south westerly monsoon has filled in so the wind is with us along with a favorable equatorial counter current that flows east varying from 1/2 to 2 knots. We just need to locate it to take full advantage.
I will hopefully blog our position and weather condition updates during the passage.
Friday, June 24, 2016
IT'S ALWAYS SOMETHING
Samal Island, Davao
Mindanao, Philippines
Working away on the boat attempting to get ready to once again enjoy true cruising rather than marina life and boat yard projects it seems I always find something that is not on the list that needs attention.
Last blog had me finishing installing the new sink faucet and then going to work rebuilding the aft toilet in preparation for once again being out of the marina. Now Mr. Groco, the toilet manufacturer, and I are old friends and he fully cooperated in being put back together, this time, with lots of new parts and on checking things flushed without any leaks.
Monday I was going to run a check on our high frequency radio talking to friends on S/V Carina now located in Palau. Leslie was able to copy me but not with the best of signals. I supposed I needed to look at the ground plane first. During this test another problem was noted! The pactor modem, which we use with the HF radio to send and receive emails while underway with no internet connection, did not initialize and just showed flashing red lights. The modem is very important as it not only is our email link but also our weather link while underway. I attempted a bit of troubleshooting checking connections etc. to no avail. An email was sent to the North American distributor located in the San Francisco bay area.
Wednesday morning brought the response that it was an internal failure and they could possibly repair it. Off I went to Davao to find a DHL office to send the modem away. I was successful and they should have it by their closing time Friday evening. Now we just hope it can be repaired and then shipped to Kathy in Southern California to bring when she returns. More on that in future editions of this blog.
Thursday it was time to investigate the ground plane of the HF radio. There are different opinions by the experts regarding this and I prefer the one from Gordon West mainly because it is far simpler. He says just a copper foil from the tuner ground to a bronze thru hull rather than others they that espouse 100 square meters of copper throughout the boat. In the past I had actually just used a heavy copper wire to the rudder post but had planned to change to foil and had brought it back from the states. When I looked at the old ground wire it was in fact broken and not connected to anything. This whole installation takes place in the aft berth and mostly under the bed. It was a day long job but I did finish it, today I once again talked to Leslie aboard s/v Carina in Palau and she said I had a stronger signal so I guess I was successful.
Today's first project was to finish the reinforcing of the tack and head of the staysail. this was started months ago and finally finished today. something actually crossed off the list. For my afternoon job I decided something simple. As tomorrow I planned to start on fluid changing for the engine, coolant, transmission fluid and engine oil that I would take inventory of what I had and would need for the future. Looking at stores in the forward bilge area I found a container that should have been full to be only half. The container had sprung a leak. thankfully this has occurred before and I now keep all liquid jugs inside a tray in case of leaks. It was a minor problem but at least not oil throughout the bilge. I then decided to do some further inspections starting in the engine room. Next found was a wire from the alternator to the batteries that the crimped and soldered terminal was loose and needed replacement. then on looking further in could see water dripping from the hose connecting the thru hull to the raw water engine cooling pump. I had noticed the automatic bilge pump has been cycling more often lately.
That's a lot of somethings in the last week!!!
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| THE MAGIC PACTOR MODEM BOX |
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| MY WORK AREA FOR THE NEW GROUND FOIL |
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| FOIL ATTACHED TO THRU HULL |
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| FOIL ATTACHED TO TUNER |
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| JUST STUFF UNDER OUR MATTRESS |
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| REINFORCED WEBBING ON STAYSAIL |
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| THAT WIRE SHOULD NOT BE BENT THAT WAY |
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| LEAKY OIL JUG |
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| LEAKY HOSE THAT NEEDS A NEW ONE |
Sunday, June 19, 2016
BACK TO WORK
Ocean View Marina
Samal Island, Davao
Mindanao, Philippines
I have finally managed to get back to doing the work necessary for us to leave the Philippines and head eastward to Palau. The incision on my knee has closed and once again I am doing the exercises for strengthening, bending and straightening. Trying to accomplish much work on the boat is tough when you can't kneel down.
For now I am alone on the boat as Kathy has returned to the states as her father passed away last week. Rest in Peace Ralph. I have a list and hopefully can get most all done before Kathy returns in mid July.
The last few days it was replacing the galley pressure water faucet. It also involved adding a new "Seagull IV" drinking water filer system, no more "tank" water taste. New drains and hold down studs to keep the sink in place.
Something crossed of the list, though to tell the truth I still need to install a new spout for the salt water foot pump but that is something I don't have in the spares locker. Kathy will bring one back when she comes. While the sink cabinet was open I did also install a new freshwater foot pump.
Later today I was once again in the plumbing mode repairing the toilet in the aft head. I did not get it finished but there is always tomorrow.
Samal Island, Davao
Mindanao, Philippines
I have finally managed to get back to doing the work necessary for us to leave the Philippines and head eastward to Palau. The incision on my knee has closed and once again I am doing the exercises for strengthening, bending and straightening. Trying to accomplish much work on the boat is tough when you can't kneel down.
For now I am alone on the boat as Kathy has returned to the states as her father passed away last week. Rest in Peace Ralph. I have a list and hopefully can get most all done before Kathy returns in mid July.
The last few days it was replacing the galley pressure water faucet. It also involved adding a new "Seagull IV" drinking water filer system, no more "tank" water taste. New drains and hold down studs to keep the sink in place.
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| THE ALL PURPOSE BUCKET FOR DISHES |
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| THE OLD HOLD DOWN STUDS |
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| NEW FAUCET |
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| NEW STUDS |
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| FINISHED AND NO LEAKS |
Later today I was once again in the plumbing mode repairing the toilet in the aft head. I did not get it finished but there is always tomorrow.
Tuesday, June 7, 2016
HOME AGAIN !!
Ocean View Marina
Samal Island, Davao
Mindanao, Philippines
We have now been back on the boat for two weeks. Always nice to be back in your own space and not be living out of bags. We both suffered a bit of jet lag especially Kathy who for several days would be up at 2 am and take naps from 3 to 7 pm. We are both back to normal hours now.
My surgically repaired knee suffered from the 25 hours in transit with my lower leg and ankle swollen for 2 days.
We have managed to get a few things done since our arrival back. First was lots of cleaning for Kathy and storing stuff brought back for me. I am still under the doctors orders of trying to keep my leg reasonably straight until the incision fully heals. It's real tough to do many projects keeping on leg straight. When I am able to get back to bending I'll be starting on my therapy again. I will then still be restricted to not kneeling for another 4 months. Somehow we'll manage to get the boat ready to head off to Palau.
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Samal Island, Davao
Mindanao, Philippines
We have now been back on the boat for two weeks. Always nice to be back in your own space and not be living out of bags. We both suffered a bit of jet lag especially Kathy who for several days would be up at 2 am and take naps from 3 to 7 pm. We are both back to normal hours now.
My surgically repaired knee suffered from the 25 hours in transit with my lower leg and ankle swollen for 2 days.
We have managed to get a few things done since our arrival back. First was lots of cleaning for Kathy and storing stuff brought back for me. I am still under the doctors orders of trying to keep my leg reasonably straight until the incision fully heals. It's real tough to do many projects keeping on leg straight. When I am able to get back to bending I'll be starting on my therapy again. I will then still be restricted to not kneeling for another 4 months. Somehow we'll manage to get the boat ready to head off to Palau.
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Tuesday, May 10, 2016
DELAYED DEPARTURE
Huntington Beach, Calif.
USA
At this time we were supposed to be winging our way back to the Philippines and our boat in Holiday Ocean View Marina on Samal Island. Instead I am reclining on a couch with my recently replaced right knee elevated and wrapped in a bandage.
Late Friday afternoon Kathy and i noticed some redness surrounding a small area on the healing incision, nothing serious looking but something to keep an eye on. Saturday morning brought an increase in redness. Having lived on a sailboat for the last seventeen years we are always very careful of possible infection in what begin as small cuts . With the increased redness on Saturday we first started on a course of antibiotics and put in a call to the doctor. A call back from the doctors office confirmed the start of antibiotics and that we should come for a visit on Monday morning.
Come Monday prior to our doctors visit Kathy and I felt the redness had decreased and that later that night we would be on our way back to the Philippines. The doctor had another view. He advised that we stay here, continue on the oral antibiotics which he doubled the dosage of, added a three times daily application of Bactroban, an antibiotic ointment and rest with my leg elevated. I may have not always done what I was told but I do follow doctors orders.
Flights have now been cancelled and yet to be rescheduled, emails sent to the marina cancelling a ride from the airport and another to the girl taking care of our cats aboard the boat.
For now I will remain in my reclined position, following doctors orders until we visit again next week.
USA
At this time we were supposed to be winging our way back to the Philippines and our boat in Holiday Ocean View Marina on Samal Island. Instead I am reclining on a couch with my recently replaced right knee elevated and wrapped in a bandage.
Late Friday afternoon Kathy and i noticed some redness surrounding a small area on the healing incision, nothing serious looking but something to keep an eye on. Saturday morning brought an increase in redness. Having lived on a sailboat for the last seventeen years we are always very careful of possible infection in what begin as small cuts . With the increased redness on Saturday we first started on a course of antibiotics and put in a call to the doctor. A call back from the doctors office confirmed the start of antibiotics and that we should come for a visit on Monday morning.
Come Monday prior to our doctors visit Kathy and I felt the redness had decreased and that later that night we would be on our way back to the Philippines. The doctor had another view. He advised that we stay here, continue on the oral antibiotics which he doubled the dosage of, added a three times daily application of Bactroban, an antibiotic ointment and rest with my leg elevated. I may have not always done what I was told but I do follow doctors orders.
Flights have now been cancelled and yet to be rescheduled, emails sent to the marina cancelling a ride from the airport and another to the girl taking care of our cats aboard the boat.
For now I will remain in my reclined position, following doctors orders until we visit again next week.
Wednesday, April 13, 2016
REHAP OF THE NEW KNEE
Vista, Calif.
USA
I am now three weeks post operation for the installation of my new right knee. The first weeks were spent with Kathy's son and his wife and the three grand boys, thanks JJ and LOri, in Huntington Beach consisting of lots of walks and in house physical therapy.
We have now move on to Kathy's parents in north San Diego county and I am scheduled for my second out patient physical therapy later today. Progress is slow on getting back range of motion in my knee but it is forward.
Later this week we are off to visit our old cruising friends John & Renee no longer of "Scarlett O'Hara" but still living aboard a boat in San Diego.
USA
I am now three weeks post operation for the installation of my new right knee. The first weeks were spent with Kathy's son and his wife and the three grand boys, thanks JJ and LOri, in Huntington Beach consisting of lots of walks and in house physical therapy.
We have now move on to Kathy's parents in north San Diego county and I am scheduled for my second out patient physical therapy later today. Progress is slow on getting back range of motion in my knee but it is forward.
Later this week we are off to visit our old cruising friends John & Renee no longer of "Scarlett O'Hara" but still living aboard a boat in San Diego.
Tuesday, March 22, 2016
NEW KNEE IS INSTALLED
Hoag Orthopedic Institute
Irvine, Calif.
USA
After a very busy two weeks since we arrived back in California, today was the day for the install of my new right knee. Everything went as expected and I am feeling good.
To back track a bit. Our flight from the Philippines was fine though long, especially as the feeder trip from Davao to Manila took off two hours late and we were concerned about our connecting flight to Los Angeles. that flight was also late. so no problems. We have learned the acronym for Philippine air, PAL stands for planes always late. Our first day was spent getting organized with telephones, having unlocked ones meant just sim cards and a short prepaid plan, along with some shopping etc. Our first few nights were spent with Kathy's old friend Debbie Jo who also kindly lends us her spare car to drive, thanks DJ. The next day, Wednesday, was doctors appointment day, three in all. Then another scheduled for Friday and one again on Monday. Lists were made in the evening and errands run during the day. Phone calls were made to friends and we even managed to join in on a St Paddy's day party. After a five night stay with Debbie Jo we move to Kathy's sons house where we enjoy the chaos of the the grand kids, all boys, one at 7 and twins a month shy of 5. I will do my initial home recovery there too.
This brings us up to today. An early arrival of 0600 to check-in, though I was not scheduled to arrive till 0700, It's always better to be early. After a short wait it was off to pre-op for another round of health questions, having my leg shaved, an IV started and a short visit from my surgeon Dr. Robert Gorab whom I would definitely recommend. From this point things get a bit foggy. I met with the anesthesiologist who explained his part and started sending along all the Happy Juice, through the IV I never even felt the spinal. My next remembrances are waking up in the recovery room with a large bandage on my new bionic right knee to now go along with my two replaced hips. Medical science is a wonderful thing.
Next I was moved to my room. All rooms here at the Hoag Orthopedic Institute are private. Kathy was here waiting as I got settled in, Something recommended by Dr. Gorab is a "cold machine" which circulates a 40° through a pad that was placed under the sterile dressing, it's supposed to help control swelling and reduce pain and it seems to be working. Just after 1400 or 2 pm I received my first physical therapy some bed exercises and then up and out in the hallway for a short walk. The hoped for schedule calls for more PT tomorrow and one more night before being sent home the following morning.
I can't say enough good about the care here including the salmon, potatoes and vegetable for dinner.
Irvine, Calif.
USA
After a very busy two weeks since we arrived back in California, today was the day for the install of my new right knee. Everything went as expected and I am feeling good.
To back track a bit. Our flight from the Philippines was fine though long, especially as the feeder trip from Davao to Manila took off two hours late and we were concerned about our connecting flight to Los Angeles. that flight was also late. so no problems. We have learned the acronym for Philippine air, PAL stands for planes always late. Our first day was spent getting organized with telephones, having unlocked ones meant just sim cards and a short prepaid plan, along with some shopping etc. Our first few nights were spent with Kathy's old friend Debbie Jo who also kindly lends us her spare car to drive, thanks DJ. The next day, Wednesday, was doctors appointment day, three in all. Then another scheduled for Friday and one again on Monday. Lists were made in the evening and errands run during the day. Phone calls were made to friends and we even managed to join in on a St Paddy's day party. After a five night stay with Debbie Jo we move to Kathy's sons house where we enjoy the chaos of the the grand kids, all boys, one at 7 and twins a month shy of 5. I will do my initial home recovery there too.
This brings us up to today. An early arrival of 0600 to check-in, though I was not scheduled to arrive till 0700, It's always better to be early. After a short wait it was off to pre-op for another round of health questions, having my leg shaved, an IV started and a short visit from my surgeon Dr. Robert Gorab whom I would definitely recommend. From this point things get a bit foggy. I met with the anesthesiologist who explained his part and started sending along all the Happy Juice, through the IV I never even felt the spinal. My next remembrances are waking up in the recovery room with a large bandage on my new bionic right knee to now go along with my two replaced hips. Medical science is a wonderful thing.
Next I was moved to my room. All rooms here at the Hoag Orthopedic Institute are private. Kathy was here waiting as I got settled in, Something recommended by Dr. Gorab is a "cold machine" which circulates a 40° through a pad that was placed under the sterile dressing, it's supposed to help control swelling and reduce pain and it seems to be working. Just after 1400 or 2 pm I received my first physical therapy some bed exercises and then up and out in the hallway for a short walk. The hoped for schedule calls for more PT tomorrow and one more night before being sent home the following morning.
I can't say enough good about the care here including the salmon, potatoes and vegetable for dinner.
Thursday, March 3, 2016
IT'S THE PHILIPPINES
Ocean View Marina
Samal Island, Davao
Mindanao, Philippines
"IT'S THE PHILIPPINES", an oft heard phrase here by expats, visitors and even the locals to describe whatever problem or difficulty that is being experienced. It's one we have both heard and used several times in the past few weeks as we try to get organized to head back to the States for my new knee.
To regress a bit I had seen a Doctor here in Davao regarding constant knee pain. Diagnosed as arthritic and a candidate for a knee replacement. It took a few months but finally a decision was made to contact the Doctor in California who had done my hip replacements. They asked that if I had x-rays to please send them. No problem, the hospital provided them on CD and I was off to the local Fedex to send them stateside for review. Fedex said I would need a "media optical permit #" to send the CD. They provided me with an office phone # in Manila! There is no office here in Davao the third largest city is this country of 100 million people. "It's the Philippines". I went to the local post and managed to send the CD of by international mail and it arrived at the Dr.'s office in seven days.
It is now dealing with making appointments and completing paperwork via the internet and telephone from here. Our internet is spotty at best and the phones do normally work at a cost of about $1 US per minute, we really like those rotaries or please hold and you are not given time to explain why you cannot. Thankfully with my Doctor and the hospital we have had to deal with none of that. So nice to see things run efficiently!!
Next was airline tickets. That was managed in only three hours on the internet from midnight till 3 am when we were able to get a fair connection. Of course it was another two hours later in the day regarding seat assignments. "It's the Philippines".
Yesterday and today were spent dealing with immigration. Since we have been in country for more than six months we are required to get an "exit clearance" to leave the country. If you do not have the form you do not get on the airplane. A van ride from the marina, the ferry to Davao proper then a taxi to immigration yesterday. We filled out the forms along with four photos turned them in and began our wait. Darkness descended, a power outage! Power outages are not unusual here, a government office would have a generator, all the little stores do. Yes they have one but no one in the office can remember when it last worked. "It's the Philippines". We left and returned several times over the next
few hours only to be told to come back later. We returned to the boat and decided to come back today. Another van, ferry and taxi ride and we were back to the immigration office. The lights were on, power restored and one and a half hours later and at a cost of $25 US we had our exit clearances and can now get on the plane.
With luck that is the last of our "It's the Philippines" experiences until we return in May, when even though we arrived by yacht and have a letter from the marina stating we will leave in that manner the airline will want to require us to buy an onward ticket, we will deal with that then.
With luck tonight and the internet behaving I will try to add some photos. Lorenzo of the yacht Flaneur hosted a party in celebration of being on the hard for ONE year.
A kitten Kathy found abandoned here in the yard today, perhaps 4 weeks old. The little one was turned over to our Filipina friend Jessica who now takes care of about twenty cats. We have paid to now get six spayed and this will be next on the list to be done.
Samal Island, Davao
Mindanao, Philippines
"IT'S THE PHILIPPINES", an oft heard phrase here by expats, visitors and even the locals to describe whatever problem or difficulty that is being experienced. It's one we have both heard and used several times in the past few weeks as we try to get organized to head back to the States for my new knee.
To regress a bit I had seen a Doctor here in Davao regarding constant knee pain. Diagnosed as arthritic and a candidate for a knee replacement. It took a few months but finally a decision was made to contact the Doctor in California who had done my hip replacements. They asked that if I had x-rays to please send them. No problem, the hospital provided them on CD and I was off to the local Fedex to send them stateside for review. Fedex said I would need a "media optical permit #" to send the CD. They provided me with an office phone # in Manila! There is no office here in Davao the third largest city is this country of 100 million people. "It's the Philippines". I went to the local post and managed to send the CD of by international mail and it arrived at the Dr.'s office in seven days.
It is now dealing with making appointments and completing paperwork via the internet and telephone from here. Our internet is spotty at best and the phones do normally work at a cost of about $1 US per minute, we really like those rotaries or please hold and you are not given time to explain why you cannot. Thankfully with my Doctor and the hospital we have had to deal with none of that. So nice to see things run efficiently!!
Next was airline tickets. That was managed in only three hours on the internet from midnight till 3 am when we were able to get a fair connection. Of course it was another two hours later in the day regarding seat assignments. "It's the Philippines".
Yesterday and today were spent dealing with immigration. Since we have been in country for more than six months we are required to get an "exit clearance" to leave the country. If you do not have the form you do not get on the airplane. A van ride from the marina, the ferry to Davao proper then a taxi to immigration yesterday. We filled out the forms along with four photos turned them in and began our wait. Darkness descended, a power outage! Power outages are not unusual here, a government office would have a generator, all the little stores do. Yes they have one but no one in the office can remember when it last worked. "It's the Philippines". We left and returned several times over the next
few hours only to be told to come back later. We returned to the boat and decided to come back today. Another van, ferry and taxi ride and we were back to the immigration office. The lights were on, power restored and one and a half hours later and at a cost of $25 US we had our exit clearances and can now get on the plane.
With luck that is the last of our "It's the Philippines" experiences until we return in May, when even though we arrived by yacht and have a letter from the marina stating we will leave in that manner the airline will want to require us to buy an onward ticket, we will deal with that then.
With luck tonight and the internet behaving I will try to add some photos. Lorenzo of the yacht Flaneur hosted a party in celebration of being on the hard for ONE year.
A kitten Kathy found abandoned here in the yard today, perhaps 4 weeks old. The little one was turned over to our Filipina friend Jessica who now takes care of about twenty cats. We have paid to now get six spayed and this will be next on the list to be done.
 |
| OUR "BLUE CAT" NOW 14, JUST RELAXING |
 |
| THE V-BERTH PACKED FULL AS WE HEAD TO THE STATES |
 |
| PIG AND GOAT FOR DINNER |
 |
| A KAREOKE WARM UP |
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| JO DOES NOT THINK MUCH OF LORENZO'S TUBBA |
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| CHRIS LIKES IT |
 |
| HAPPY YACHTIES |
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| IT'S NOT A PARTY I N THE PHILIPPINES WITHOUT KEREOKE |
Saturday, February 27, 2016
BACK TO CALIFORNIA
Ocean View Marina
Samal Island, Davao
Mindanao, Philippines
As I mentioned in my last posting we are returning to California so I can have a knee replacement. We have booked a flight and will be there on March 7. I start with doctors appointments on March 9 and surgery to follow two weeks later. It has been almost five years since I have been back in the States so I will most likely be in for quite a shock over the differences there.
Not to much has been going on in regards to projects on the boat, it has mostly just been preparing to head back to California. We have someone to stay on the boat and look after the cats.
So for those of you readers there in S. Calif. we hope to see when we're there.
Once again due to our poor internet her I am posting this thru sailmail and then hopefully I can add some photos.
----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com
Samal Island, Davao
Mindanao, Philippines
As I mentioned in my last posting we are returning to California so I can have a knee replacement. We have booked a flight and will be there on March 7. I start with doctors appointments on March 9 and surgery to follow two weeks later. It has been almost five years since I have been back in the States so I will most likely be in for quite a shock over the differences there.
Not to much has been going on in regards to projects on the boat, it has mostly just been preparing to head back to California. We have someone to stay on the boat and look after the cats.
So for those of you readers there in S. Calif. we hope to see when we're there.
Once again due to our poor internet her I am posting this thru sailmail and then hopefully I can add some photos.
----------
radio email processed by SailMail
for information see: http://www.sailmail.com
Monday, February 15, 2016
A BIG CHANGE IN PLANS
Ocean View Marina
Samal Island, Davao
Mindanao, Philippines
First, after a long five months of LIVING ON THE HARD, we have now been back in the water for the last week. It is very nice to once again be afloat even though here in the marina we barely rock.
All went as planned for the launching till I started the faithful Miss Perky. The raw water pump was frozen so instead of Kathy backing us out and into our assigned berth lines were used to warp us around. The next day I changed out pumps and Miss perky was again a happy girl.
Lots was done during our five months on the hard including several unplanned things. The bottom was stripped to gel coat, faired, epoxy barrier coated and new anti-foul paint just before launching. The mast removal, stripping of old paint, new paint, all new standing rigging was a major undertaking. Removal and re-installation of the cabin brow rail and hand rails to stop leaks was totally unplanned. We had some problems with the paint on the cabin top which was just done last year so that was also re-done.
Once back in the water our plan was to finish things up and head east across the Pacific, first to Palau then the Marshall Islands and finally back to southern California. That is still the plan but first we will be flying back to the States in early March. My arthritic right knee continues to plague me with lots of pain, stiffness and swelling. I have visited the Doctors here, had fluid drained, gotten steroid shots with no real relief. Today's decision was to fly back to visit the Doctor who has done my hip replacements as I have been led to believe that would be the next step toward pain relief and happy living.
For those of you in Southern California we should be there in the first week of March.
Samal Island, Davao
Mindanao, Philippines
First, after a long five months of LIVING ON THE HARD, we have now been back in the water for the last week. It is very nice to once again be afloat even though here in the marina we barely rock.
 |
| KATHY'S STAIR ARE REMOVED |
 |
| SETTING THE TRAILER UNDER THE CRADLE |
 |
| TA-TA SUPERVISING |
 |
| CHECKING THAT THE CRADLE FIT IS CORRECT |
 |
| NOW WE WAIT FOR THE TIDE |
Lots was done during our five months on the hard including several unplanned things. The bottom was stripped to gel coat, faired, epoxy barrier coated and new anti-foul paint just before launching. The mast removal, stripping of old paint, new paint, all new standing rigging was a major undertaking. Removal and re-installation of the cabin brow rail and hand rails to stop leaks was totally unplanned. We had some problems with the paint on the cabin top which was just done last year so that was also re-done.
Once back in the water our plan was to finish things up and head east across the Pacific, first to Palau then the Marshall Islands and finally back to southern California. That is still the plan but first we will be flying back to the States in early March. My arthritic right knee continues to plague me with lots of pain, stiffness and swelling. I have visited the Doctors here, had fluid drained, gotten steroid shots with no real relief. Today's decision was to fly back to visit the Doctor who has done my hip replacements as I have been led to believe that would be the next step toward pain relief and happy living.
For those of you in Southern California we should be there in the first week of March.
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