We returned to Marina Seca to see Jellybean in the workyard where she had her keel sandblasted, her entire bottom painted (the best bottom job she had ever had!), plus her rudder repaired. To get started on the watermaker project, we had a new through-hull installed. This is pretty scary -- putting a new hole in the bottom of a boat. Well, that job went very well, and before we knew it, Jellybean was gently put onto a cradle on a huge trailer pulled by a tractor and "splashed" on schedule.

While we were in the workyard we organized space somewhat, preparing to un-load the car that was full of stuff that we needed. We didn't have enough room in the car for all the clothes and personal items that we planned to have on our big adventure, so......we drove back to LA where we had rented a storeroom and picked up the rest of the stuff. We drove back through San Diego which was fortunate since we were able to pick up some needed items at the boating stores.

Here are a few photos of us trying to get organized - I muttered a few times that her temporary name was "Bedlam." In the midst of bedlam, however, I found the perfect place for important family photos.

In-between the two trips Roy installed the solar panels (finally -- now no more worries about running out of power while at anchor). I discovered a new use for Shakespeare antenna standoffs that we had purchased at Maritime Electronics. Luckily we had some stainless rails that were on the old dodger (we had put them in the garage two years ago hoping to find a use for them one day!). So, all in all, the entire installation cost us lots of hours of Roy's labor.

After the second LA trip, we finally got around to installing the watermaker. I had resisted for years, but at the thought of having two showers a day, I relented. Roy dragged out the installation manual. We talked for hours about where to put the various parts. Since they were destined for areas under the seats of the dinette, I suggested that we remove the table for the installation. After a little resistance, Roy agreed -- what a boon that was! Easy access for a big plumbing project is something new for Jellybean!

As I write this, it is Halloween eve; we are hoping to have the installation completed tomorrow. The wind is howling, finally cooling us down a bit.

In a few days we will drive to LA once again, to leave the car at Dave and Linda's. We plan to fly via Southwest to Phoenix, then hop on a bus which takes 8-10 hours to Guaymas (a few miles south of San Carlos), and finally take off for Baja.

Next update scheduled for sometime in November when we have access to wifi to upload stories and photos about our Baja adventure.