We've been preparing since January to participate in the 2009 Baja-Haha, a cruising rally from San Diego to Cabo San Lucas. (See link to the left under favorites for more info.) So far this year, we've purchased, installed, registered and are attempting to learn to use the SSB HF radio, Pactor modem, computer for weather routing, EPIRB and ditch bag. Ok, we NEVER want to use the EPIRB and ditch bag....but we HAVE them. I managed to get the FCC Ship License and Limited Operator License - still trying to get back to that registration file to upload the EPIRB info. I emailed them for help. I doubt I'll EVER hear back.

We've really been preparing for the past four years. We have purchased sails, including a asymmetrical spinnaker in a sock; electronics; batteries (twice, the first set fried, that's another story) and Xantrax battery monitor; new upholstery in the saloon; DC refrigeration; DSC VHF; AIS; anchor chain and rode. We have done and continue to do our part for the Marine Industry!

Still working on insurance to cover the trip, which involves hauling out for a survey in two weeks; new lifelines; jerry cans for fuel; possibly a new WindStopper dodger.

This coming weekend we plan to work on servicing all the winches and doing some de-mold work in the interior.

I can see how people never feel like everything is done & ready! At least we have a departure date....ready or not, we depart the US on 10/26/09!