Too close to call

Since departing from the Quinault Paddle, we have turned north. A few days transit brought us to Blaine, WA. Just on the very northern edge of the US. So close to Canada, in fact, that our cellular modem was registering in British Columbia, and we had to shut it down to avoid roaming charges. We have since setup an temporary international plan, just in time for us to actually cast off dock lines and make way on up to the Common wealth in earnest early early tomorrow morning.

We've had an exciting few days. Seasoned crew Calen and Patty have taken off, as well as our wonderful Two-week trainee, Johnathan. Their bunks have been turned over, though not the place in our hearts, and we are graced with three brand new Two week-ers. A trio of wonderful individuals, Freeman, Bailey, and Katie are learning well, and working hard.

We had a light wind, but very entertaining battle sail. Lady won handedly, raking Chieftains stern several times with full broadsides, cries of their anguished defeat wafting across the waves for hours...to be replaced with raucous dockside revelries as crews from both boats came out, had a few, and gave the royal send off for our departing shipmates. Instruments were broken out and a great number of sea shanties were sung. I very much enjoyed my first go at leading the call and response for Paddy, Lay Back as well as introducing some people to Blue Nose. I heard some new ones as well, that I am hoping I can tuck into my repertoire for later.

Great big Flags'le

After a day of maintenance and crew training, we had a very full sailing for a film shoot. A small camera crew came on board, dressed us in wardrobe and gathered stock footage for a particular show...that I'm not supposed to name.

We spent the day setting, dousing, and maneuvering as well as monkeying around in the rig (my personal favorite) to "look busy" and "do sailor-y stuff". Shooting from Lady, another small vessel, and from a small RC octo-copter they got some pretty neat footage of us climbing in places we're normally not allowed to climb. Yay!

Mom, don't read the last paragraph...oops

Today was a day for tours and maintenance. Plenty of lookers on. Some paint was touched up, crowjack lifts were end-for-ended, and Sabrina made up a new Main-Topsail-Halyard-Tie.


It's been a good week. I am looking forward to a shower, some cards, and sleep.
Then, off to Richmond, BC and the maritime history festival!

Our Canadian Boatswain's mate is called home.

These neat little guys have been puttering around Blaine Harbor.

Rare view of some of our 20th century technology.

The film crew

Boatswain Sabrina and Engineer Robert, having some fum aloft.

Kissing the main truck.

Pulling a Jack Aubrey, Standing on the T'gallant yard