In the harbor

Having her in the water and close to us is making quite a difference. Peter is checking in the morning if our painter Quinten arrived and gives him the orders for the day and checks in the afternoon what progress he made.

In the weekends you see us both on the boat and Louis found already his favorite spots on deck. Been cleaning her inside thoroughly, despite the fact that this week Quinten will sand and paint again. The moment his job is finished and we have the last two windows in, we can seriously think of moving in! Although Eva en Allan still think that we will have another Christmas at their place.

It will be good to be back in the harbor with our friends. Despite the fact that my vegetable patch is coming along nicely; I managed to grow purple chillies (don't ask how they got purple, I thought it was the way they normally grow), living back on the water will be great.

launch drink

the launching of Ataraxia went in our usually chaotic way. We did invite our dragon lady from NSRI to give a speech and name her and some friends passed by. If you've missed this one, we intend to give a large party by the time we will move onto the boat. You will probably have to bring your own food and wine with, but that's concern for later.

Margi gave a brilliant speech, see below for the complete text.

After that she was towed to our mooring, where we will be finishing her off and make her suitable for living on. Hopefully in a few years, or sooner, we can install the engines and take off with her.

Text of the speech from Margi "the dragonlady" Benson:

"since being awarded this honor (note: she is head of the awards committee at the station, so used to giving awards), I have done much "trawling" through the internet.

In pagan days, the naming of the boat was accomplished by draping themselves in olive branches, much beating of breasts and human sacrifice. The Greeks and Phoenicians (becoming more civilized) modified this somewhat, having the vestal virgins cast wine upon the sea, sacrificing a ram or two and invoking the patron saints of sea and navigation.

However as I don't think the authorities will smile on us if we "slag a skaap" on the slipway, and there is no way I can pass for a vestal virgin... I have two gifts for Peter and Nicole (note: we got a packet of lamb chops for on the braai and a picture of a St. Brendans Cross to be placed on board)

The definition of Ataraxia is of Greek origin, meaning perfect peace of mind, tranquility and freedom from worry.... which apparently Peter and Nicole discovered in a bottle of wine! (note: always good to bring Ataraxia wine to us, especially the Chardonnay)

I name this boat Ataraxia, may god bless her and all who sail in her