Anyone who tells you they know all about sailing is lying and shouldn't be trusted.

Certainly some are more accomplished than others, and have learned (mostly by experience) that just when you think you have it all figured out, the ocean, the boat or the wind throws a curve ball at you and suddenly you feel like a rank amateur again.

I never let my guard down until everything is "secured", and even then, there's always a bit of measured nervousness whenever I'm away from the boat for more than a short while.

And I'm always learning something new that tends to humble me whenever I get the inflated notion that I'm good.

This winter has been colder than usual here, south of latitude 26, and we've had our share of rain, cold and howling north wind. Along with some unexpected medical stuff, sailing has been bare essentials minimum. But I've been at least concientious about starting the engine, excercising the transmission, keeping the bilge dry and cleaning the exterior, as well as wiping down the interior periodically. I've also managed to do a few upgrades including the installation of a permanent depth finder, a centrifigal remotely located bilge pump, and a few other minor things. D has fabricated various sumbrella covers with her new commercial sewing machine, and we are planning to haul out in March (finally).

I've been complaining about the cold blooded nature of the Westerbeke every week when I start it, cringing as I spin the starter for what seems like etermity before she finally moans to life. Once the thing starts though, it's as smooth as silk.

I just couldn't figure it out. I mean, I put in the key, push in on the key switch to activate the glow plugs, but it never seems to help. I figured maybe the glow plugs just weren't working.

Until last Tuesday when it suddenly dawned on me; I have to turn the switch to the "on" position to complete the circuit....I'll bet that's what's wrong!

So I tried it, turned the switch to "on", pushed in on the key switch as usual, counting to "10", and turned the starter.

The engine immediately roared to life like it was a 90 degree day. Problem solved. I might look dumb....but that's just a disguise.

Our latest equipment upgrade is a propane barbeque grill. Sometimes the non essential comfort items are good too, and we got a down dirty deal on this one. Besides, I have heard a lot of positive comments from other cruisers who have them, so I figured I just couldn't pass up a deal quite that good. I just mounted it to the stern rail and am anxious to give it a test ride.

I wonder what that learning curve will be like?