Smooth Sailing...

Push off from the Take-it-Easy RV Resort dockage was done with precision and skill using Smitanic unique signals (see RV Signals page). Kevin guided Theresa at the helm so that the dingy could be attached and verified prior to making way.

The winds were favorable at 10 knots, the course was due west without any jibes or tacks needed. The landscape rolled like a 12-foot tide surge (flashback to BVI sailing trip) which seemed to pushing the vessel effortlessly towards it's point of sail.

Kevin gave Theresa instructions on using the engine break. It is best applied before a decent at 45-55 mph. This technique is far superior to applying the breaks constantly down a steep decline and lets the engine hold back the downward momentum vs burning up the breaks.

Theresa drove first for the first half and she only had to make a few lane changes to overtake or give way to another vessel. She did need to use the engine break a few times but mostly she set the cruise for 65 ish in the 80MPH zone allowing the few vessels on the road to easily pass on the Starboard.

After a quick stop for the change of command Kevin was at the helm for the remainder of the sail. The roll settled down and gave way to flat calm seas as the port of Fort Stockton RV resort was entered and docking process was now underway. The speed declined from 80 to a RV tollerable 5mph, ahh time to get into relax mode!

The preassigned slip #49 was located in the Reservations folder as the dockmaster was off between the hours of 12-2pm.

The bow and stern where fended off and secured. The dingy was left attached but the break buddy was unplugged to reduce the battery drain.

All systems were checked including the Satellite TV. It did not work due to tree but Kevin keeps on trying to validate it at every stop in hopes of troubleshooting it not working as we move westwardly.

Park upgrades of a dog run and more green area were a big improvement over last year's stay. However we were informed that the Menu at the Roadrunner cafe was the same... (except dessert, it is now a scoop of Ice cream instead of cake).

The Six shooter trail seemed like a good way to get some steps in. The trail head was marked with a 6-shooter mailbox and an arch. The next expansion of the resort was underway off this trail and seemed very compact for the Texas expanse (just saying). The trail paralleled the freeway which allowed for several photo opps...(see the photo album).

Dinner would be something delectable on the cafe menu like BBQ ribs and catfish.

No rush to get going tomorrow as there are no early AM meetings nor long miles planned :)