Good News and Bad News

Which do you want first?

The good news is that it looks like I will make the Gemini raft-up this weekend. The weather forecast looks favorable and despite a lot of wind today, I was able to make a few miles down to Point Judith.

I've realized what a pussy I've become regarding wind. This morning the wind was gusting 20-25 knots. I ordinarily wouldn't go out in that much wind. But I knew this morning there'd be a windward shore preventing the waves from building up too much.

I also realized that I've never reefed a sail. (Reefing reduces the amount of sail exposed to the wind.) My M.O. is to lower the mainsail and go on a jib alone. That's fine, and I averaged 4-5 knots on the jib alone this morning. But maybe I ought to practice reefing the main.

More good news is that my engine is charging the batteries. When Lou was aboard, he pointed out that I ought to check some of the wiring on the engine, which I did. I've noticed recently that I've used my generator less often to charge the batteries, but I wasn't sure if this was because of the engine charging or some other factor.

And now for the bad news. My generator wouldn't start this morning. I know the outboard engine is charging the batteries because that's the only way I have any power now. It doesn't charge a lot, so I'm on restricted power.

The problem with the generator is no spark. I think I've narrowed it down to the electronic ignition. Now I just need to find where I can order a new one. That's it in the picture.