My P-33 K/CB launched today

[chicolimo]

Hi Pearson Pals,

If any of you watched the WX Channel today you know us folks in the Redneck Riveria had a rough day, not a hurricane bad day, but 20 - 30 knots and lotsa rain. We were scheduled to launch "TAANSTAFL" at 0800 this morning, but were unsure if the yard would do it with the forecast. Well, after two years repairing Ivan's damage, we were ready even though we did not have the Westerbeke running. No problemo, yesterday we towed a 65' Viking Ship replica across the bayou with our pontoon boat, along with two RIB's helping steer, (www.pensacolanewsjournal.com/local). The WX radar showed the first storm cells still in Alabama, so we went for it.
We just made it, with our friend's Tex Hill's help in his RIB w/15HP Johnrude pushing us on course. The wind was southerly about 25 knots by then, but we made it.
She is floating high and dry at our dock on Bayou Chico, just a minor leak at the stuffing box, okay, what do you expect after two years on the hard?
I ran power, a battery charger and a new bilge pump w/ auto switch, so no problemo. Tomorrow I will tighten the stuffing box.
She really looks good with her new topside paint and gold leaf stripe on the raised area just below the gunwale.
Now, we get to tune up the Westerbeke, paint the cabin, replace the cushions and some minor interior cabinetry work and she will be ready to sail....? Also, must figure out the hydraulic centerboard system.

Life is good.
Tom and Bobbie Vandiver on Bayou Chico, FL

[SailorMitch]

Tom,

Congrats on the launch. That has to be a great feeling after all that hard work. Now go sailing.

SailorMitch P-33-2 #146 (with a WINGED KEEL!)

[chicolimo]

Thanks Mitch,

Stuff happens! After all the hard work on our boat, I guess we must sell it.
I started having pains in my legs, then severe swelling, then a doppler sonogram revealed several deep vein blood clots, hospital 2 days, now recovering - flat on my back - taking big doses of "rat poison" to slow clotting.
YAHHHH! I am only 68 years old, with a lot of sailing dreams, but the Doc says it may take years for the clots to dissolve and I must be very careful not to bruise or cut myself. So, I cannot work on TANSTAAFL for a long time.
Know anyone interested in stealing a Pearson 33 keel/centerboard with a 27HP Westerbeke? Needs some work, nothing serious.

Tom

[PBzeer]

Sorry to hear that Tom, that has to be one major bummer. You've perservered this long though, what if the Doc is wrong and it doesn't take years? Either way, all the best to you and I hope things work out for you.