We woke up to sunshine so bright it felt like the boat had drifted into a postcard overnight. No need for long debates or breakfast. Today was a sailing day, and we were already halfway packed in our heads. Quick showers, a bit of rummaging to change Koko from marina mode into sailing mode, and by 10:00 we were off. Swan Creek gave us its usual wind mischief, swirling and teasing like it couldn’t decide whether to help or heckle. We hoisted the sails anyway, because that’s what you do when you’re a stubborn sailor who wants to have fun.

After a few tweaks and sail adjustments, we were moving. Wind from the northeast, so we pointed southwest, aiming for the Bay Bridge and Annapolis. The sky was mostly clear, just a few clouds loitering around like they’d forgotten their purpose. It was a good chance to test our solar setup. Three panels now, looking rather proud and slightly futuristic. We made decent power, not enough to throw a party over, but enough to feel smug. We’re basically a floating solar farm now, minus the goats.

Just past the Bay Bridge, the wind gave up entirely. No warning, no farewell note. We drifted for a bit, hoping it might change its mind, but eventually gave in and fired up the engine. That got us into the Rhode River and up to Sellman Creek, where a butterfly joined us like it had read our itinerary.

We’ve anchored here before and liked it so much we didn’t even pretend to consider other options.

Anchor down, engine off, and it was time for afternoon coffee. Except we swapped the coffee for chocolate milk and Prinzenrolle, those German cookies that taste like childhood and questionable nutrition. Found them at Aldi, along with pickles that are so German they practically hum Beethoven. Not a great combo with the cookies, so I had them in shifts.

Then came the work bit. We’re still in touch with the Island Packet folks and the rigging experts down in St. Pete. Sent them a video of the wedges around the mast boot this morning, and they said it looked alright. Then came the next task: measuring mast rake. Apparently, you hang something heavy from the halyard and see how far it swings behind the mast. We used the boom lift instead, since our carbon boom vang is doing a fine job of holding the mast up by itself. Hung a gallon water bottle and took a look.

Twenty inches. That seems like a lot. But I’m not a rigging expert, just a person with a tape measure and a hunch. Sent off the photos and video and started thinking. If the mast’s rake is that much, maybe it’s nudging the deck tie-downs out of line. Could also explain why the luff rope keeps jumping out of the furling groove at the bottom of the mainsail. If the mast curves too far aft, the groove might not line up right with the sail’s entry angle. That could cause the rope to slip out, especially when furling or unfurling. My theory for now, but we’ll see what the experts say.

Dinner in the cockpit, just in time for sunset. Washed the dishes while the decisive Yankess vs. Red Sox game kicked off. Thanks to Starlink, we’re watching live from our quiet little corner of the world. A bit of satellite magic in the middle of the trees and tide.

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