So, here we are...

I bought a boat. We bought a boat. I bought a boat, and my beloved permitted me to buy a boat. We have a boat, let's say that.

It's a 1986 Catalina 22, the swing keel version. I've been told, by reputable bloggers, that the C22 is the most popular recreational sailboat of all time. Popular as in best selling, popular as in it's highest rated by it's owners... I don't know. It's popular, they're everywhere, they're sturdy, well built, easy to sail... popular.

Certainly popular in our house. Since purchasing in late August she's been out an average of 3 times a week. She was sail away ready AND the seller had the titles to both the boat and the motor in hand. I cannot express to you how important that was for me, and should be to you if you're looking to buy a boat in Texas. I've been told by other reputable bloggers (not the same reputable bloggers as before mind you, better, even more reputable bloggers. Bloggers with hopes and dreams and well funded 401k's and dental plans) that if you buy a boat in Texas without a title transfer what you've bought is a thousand dollar headache. The wives of most boat owners probably believe that's what you're buying regardless, but they, unlike my beloved are shrill, frigid shrews who need hobbies.

No trailer. We decided we wanted a marina boat, so it didn't bother me that much that the trailer wasn't included. Nice Honda 8hp came with it. The Honda is starting to get a little persnickety, though. I'm going to have to figure that machine out. Apparently there's a ratur for the carbs that mixes the fuels and the gasses... I don't know from the motors.

She sails great, pretty heavy weather helm, but C22 sailors knew that already it. It's one of their signature features, and while a pain in the butt at times, is predictable enough to allow for a sheet to tiller self-steering system. I'll post about that in the future.

The electrical mostly worked before I got to her. The masthead (anchor) light was the only light that didn't work, so in trying to troubleshoot that I've successfully broken every circuit she's got. Here's what I was dealing with when I pulled the panel off for the first time. Whether I do a better job of it than the previous owners or not, once it's done, I'll at least know what wire goes to what.

So, anyhoo, I'll be posting here about improvements, maintenance, trips, and such. Here's a pic from last week's cold snap...