June 21-July4               North Kingstown, Rhode Island

The weather alternated between very pleasant, hot and humid or rainy.  We enjoyed the air-conditioning and remained onboard.  David was committed to finding and repairing the annoying leak from the bridge to the aft deck which left an ugly brown stain on the ceiling. His latest effort, an elaborate series of tubes was only partially successful. 

After considerable thought, he determined there was no simple solution.  He would saw out part of the bridge wall, remove the decayed wood forming the frame, clean the area and then replace the wall opening.  A teak border would conceal the cut and look original to the boat.  With planning only slightly less than that needed for a D-Day invasion of Europe, the project was executed with the help of Rube, the brawn to David’s brain.  For several days, the aft deck was covered in debris, tools, etc. as he and Rube exhibited skill but not neatness.  A torrential rain storm was a great test for the repair.  Success!!  No leaks and no stains.

Amazon is a constant temptation. We can think it, find it, order it and receive it without the hassle of going to stores and transporting it to the boat.  All it takes is money!  Our latest acquisition is a 4” foam topper for our king-sized mattress which had lost much of its firmness.  Arriving in a box which easily fit through our narrow doors and hallway, the huge topper expanded to provide additional comfort and an imposing appearance.

    

On Saturday, June 26, I finally admitted my shortness of breath and persistent swelling required medical attention.  We went to Kent County Hospital in Warwick (about ten miles from the marina) and I stayed there until Monday evening.  Once again, I was diagnosed with congestive heart problems.  After a plethora of tests and visits from a team of cardiologists, my symptoms subsided and I was released with diet instructions and medication changes.  Although the hospital was far from plush, the care was exceptional and the doctors were caring and thorough.  I doubt the Mayo Clinic would have been better.

Beautiful flowers and numerous calls from my family, personal physician in Fort Worth and concern and care from David made my return to the boat a truly special event.  Hopefully, there will be no recurrence of any medical issues. 

                             

Persistent rain disrupted plans for the holiday weekend.  Our planned trip to the museum at the Rhode Island School of Design in Providence was re-scheduled.  My new patriotic red, white and blue bunting to decorate the stern and bow of the boat was finally hung on the Fourth of July after we saw the dark clouds disappear.  The day gradually became more pleasant and we enjoyed another beautiful sunset before going up to the bridge to witness fireworks from the beach nearby.