Big News!
 
A miracle happened and we managed to get ‘Gathering’ Tee Shirts on order.  These should be arriving in Oklahoma city on Friday, just in time for the arrival of the fleet.
 
Tee Front (pocket):

Tee Back:
 

‘lil Bit is pretty much ready to go… I think.  Still have some packing to do, and then strike & secure the mast for transport.  I stepped the mast on Sunday, mostly to make sure that all of the lines were on the correct sides of the spreaders.  When the winter cover goes on I pull the spreaders and the mast makes a nice ridge-pole for the tarp.  Unfortunately, I never seem to remember to group the halyards in ‘before’ and ‘after’ bundles, and it’s really a pain to sort out after the mast is up.   As luck would have it, I got it right on first guess.  Having the mast up also cleared off the cabin top & deck to allow for a bit of cleaning, and gave me a chance to verify mast lighting & the radio.  All systems check out OK.
 
I changed oil & filter in the Montero, greased the trailer hubs, checked all of the tires, and I believe we’re good to go.
 
We will get the boat fully provisioned and strike the mast Tuesday.  The goal is to have everything hooked up and pointed out the drive on Tuesday night.   Wednesday is a 587 mile leg to Eureka, MO for an overnight stop.
 
More news from the road as conditions permit,
 
Dave   
 
David J. McFate

Blackwatch #77, ‘lil Bit