Wednesday, January 20, 2021

Both Fred and Frieda have been re-homed!

For several years we have had one or more geckos living on our boat. We suspected more than one, but only recently did Bob see two together. We have enjoyed their company, watching them dart around the boat, hopefully munching on any unwanted insects we have aboard. We were sad that their lives were in danger because we have to get the boat fumigated before we go to the Galapagos, and we were even sadder when we heard that geckos can live up to 15 years. They certainly do no harm to us, and they eat bugs, so we appreciate them being aboard. We have tried to catch them in the past, but they are very quick and very elusive. 



With the date of fumigation approaching we feared their days were numbered. One evening, after Bob was asleep, I noticed two geckos running around one of the pictures we have hanging on the wall. I quickly grabbed a bowl and was able to catch one, and then the other! I was so pleased with myself! Now what do I do with them? Two geckos in bowls, covered with plastic. Being in a marina, next to an unoccupied boat, I was able to walk over and give them a new home. Quite the sense of accomplishment and relief. I hope they live long and happy lives aboard our neighbor boat.



Provisioning the boat



First it goes into the aft berth, which then has to transition to...



 this, ready for one of us when we are not on watch.


So, now Rhapsody has been fumigated, because we are finally on our way to the Galapagos islands. Seven months after our lightning strike we believe all the repairs are done. I never would have guessed that it would take this long, but it did. Waiting for parts, waiting for workers, troubleshooting and redoing work, dealing with Panama shut downs and repercussions of Covid. In spite of it all, we got it done and we are off.
Seven to eight days, SSW. Across the Intertropical Convergence Zone, ITCZ, where the winds and currents from the southern hemisphere collide with the winds and currents from the northern hemisphere going in the opposite direction. Across the equator and into a new country for us. You can follow our path here: 



We are very excited to be moving on. The Galapagos Islands have long been on our bucket list, and now it seems it is becoming a reality. Many days of preparation to get ready for this passage and it still doesn't feel real. Goodbye Panama, it has been quite an interesting experience. Lockdowns and lightning. Covid and curfews. Catch you on the flip side! 







We love to hear your comments.

Laura said...

Yay! Glad they found new homes and you're on your way!! I expect lots of pictures from the Galapagos! Safe sailing ❤️

Andrew Holyoke said...

Good news! On Gecko front and on travel plans. I like that you were able to use the word “interesting” to describe your time in Panama. That’s a good attitude.

Jed Haley said...

Happy to hear that you two are finally able to strike out on your joI have been following along with you since our time in PV almost a year ago. Fair winds and well wishes for great adventures. I will look forward to your posts and pictures in weeks and months to come.
Jed and Judi

XineM said...

Glad the video came through so well. Now to find some geckoes.