Cleaning Day

Day 120  | Grafton 

The diver arrived at 7:00 and jumped in to check out our zincs. We have three on Crossroads -- bow thruster, keel cooler and stern -- and they serve as a sacrificial anodes, protecting our underwater metals from electrolysis. All of ours were found to be in good shape. No worries until our next check in Florida. Once the diver left, we switched right into bath time for Crossroads. She was long overdue and we worked from the top down. Barry started on the roof and moved to the flybridge. Of particular concern was the removal of the many spider webs wrapped around our radar and anemometer. As Barry worked up top, I was busy pulling all the sunscreens and canvas off, and unloading unused fenders, docklines, and other items stored on deck to the dock. We had everything put back together by noon. As a final task, Barry sprayed our fenders and lines with Home Defense in an attempt to keep the spiders away. There are still a few spots that require individual attention and more elbow grease, but overall she looks much better.

It was another hot one with temperatures in the low 90s (humidex in the upper 90s). A few other Loopers joined us in the marina's courtesy van for a 20-minute ride to Walmart. The van had no air conditioning, but plenty of room for purchases. We all loaded up on beverages, as all Loopers know the importance of proper hydration. Along the journey through rural Illinois, we passed a Do-Drop-Inn. Doesn't every small town have one? We brought our bags back to the boat only to find a new species of spider hanging out on our fender line. So much for Home Defense keeping us safe. In the two hours before dinner, I texted and chatted with some folks then took my book to the pilot house and quickly finished the last 100 pages. Barry grilled chicken for dinner as the sun set beyond the marina.

Tomorrow will be a bit warmer than today. We plan to walk into town in the morning before the heat becomes oppressive. The afternoon will be spent doing laundry, cleaning the living spaces, and otherwise staying cool. I'll pull out the next book and get started. Grafton Harbor Marina touts itself as "The Key West of the Midwest" and advertises a strawberry-mango wine slushy. We'll probably go investigate.