April 2022. 

It's been a long, long time since last we wrote. Also a Very Long 2 ½ years since last we saw Kalinka1 But that’s just changed. 

Being fed up with lockdowns,lockups and allround crap we decided to escape and flew to England on Wed. April 06 2022 arriving on April 07/22 at 0930(UK time). No hassle arrival except for a 10 km walk through Heathrow to get luggage and out the door to be met by Brother in Law Allen and his trusty steed Toyota. 2 hour drive to Rochester. That I admit I missed as I was in the back seat. Hugs and stuff upon arrival at our digs until the Good ship Kalinka 1 gets wet. (supposing she does). Then a short 4 hour nap. And, well not much then beddy by’s for a proper sleep. 

Friday April 8/22 We were driven to the Medway yacht Club to ss how Kalinka1 survived.   

The tarp was still on and in one piece (a good sign) Found a ladder, climbed up opened the tarp,,,,, Found the washboards out and the boat wide open! (Not so good) Went below, the boat was dry though smelling of damp and all my Milwaukee tools had gone for a walk along with my hair clippers (Before you all collapse from laughter I do need a trim about twice a year)  a pair of scissors and a Multi metre. All was not lost as they didn’t touch or take the medicinal alcohol that was stored on board for emergencies. 

After and emergency  medicinal application of said medicine  Sally and I removed the Cover and aired out as much as we could. 

Friday night we were forced to attend and contribute to the annual Rum club game feast and tasting session. Sampled 8 bottles of the finest rums our contribution being a part bottle of port royal. It started out full but needed to be tested for spoilage. 

Since then we’ve spent a week removing old dead batteries installing one new starter, cleaning and washing. From being forlorn and sad Kalinka 1 is now looking perky and ready to go swimming. Waitiing on delivery of 3 new lithium batteries for the house Bank  A rigger to come by to check out the rig (required by the Insurance company). The Life raft, epirp doctor to come by and pick up our patients and cure them of their ills. Then maybe some time next week or the week after we’ll launch head across the river to the marina for victualling and final prep and then on our way. 

Se.