When Sirius takes to the wind, we heel, which means the boat is on its side. Even under motor, there are frequently large swells in the ocean, which means we are never level. Consequently, Jeff and I have our share of bruises and stubbed toes. Doors swing wildly below if they are not held. Often stuff gets knocked off the counters and frequently there are scattered papers on the floor, sometimes even a computer.
It is hard to walk below, navigating the slant constantly. Even dressing, using the toilet or taking a shower are problematic. And just forget about opening cabinets that open in the direction of our heel. Needless to say, the contents become missiles. We have a gimballed stove, which gives us a level place to cook, but it’s moving to adjust to the heel and the large swells in the ocean and I find it very difficult to take something out of the oven. The last thing I want is a bad burn, or any burn for that matter. So, I fasten the stove in place when I cook.
Sleeping and staying on the bed are also a problem. We have lee cloths on each bed, but on our bed, which is a queen, it only works for one person.
It occurs to me right now that since we’ve left Portsmouth, VA a week ago, we’ve never been still. Landlubbers take this for granted. We’re moving when we eat and bathe. Even while we sleep, we’re still moving. Just once I’d like to be still. Sailing and motoring are all fine, but I miss the stillness. Can’t wait to get to Nanny Cay. With my luck, I’ll get seasick after I step off the boat!