9.7.12

THRIVE cooking Sundays

From our Shelf Reliance Independent Consultant's blog:

"I am so happy to announce that on Sundays, we will be uploading the THRIVE recipes we create throughout the week, complete with pictures, on our site: justaddwater.me..." (Read more)

Why do we think this is interesting? She will be cooking onboard!! :)

5.7.12

Site Update

We have been working so hard, that the website update took a back burner. I am, however, happy to announce that the site will be back up next Monday (16 July) along with the log-awaited store! And, weekly blog posts are back. Yeah!

So, here’s to our weekly posts starting tomorrow, and seeing y’all at the store next week!

Psst…The store will be available at shop.poseidonmarinemanagement.com or via the store links on springhaney.com.

FW&FS!

6.3.12

RDB 6.2.12 - Laundry and Amps

There are a number of washer/dryer combos out there now for the RV/marine industry. If you are tired of using the nearest coin-op or hand washing, they are about a $1000 upgrade...less if you find them on sale. We use a Splendide 2000 vented and are looking to upgrade to the 7100XC. Going from vented to vent-less won't really affect our shore power bill. We recently started hanging laundry on the lifelines to dry. Not only does it have a nice crisp, clean smell and feel, but it dries in about 30 minutes. Even the vented dryer takes about 90 minutes in dry weather. So, we save over $150/month now in drying power (We do a LOT of laundry.). But, the dryer is there for us when we need it in inclement weather.

Our favorites, though you can generally find them much cheaper with an online search than direct:

Splendide
     Smaller of the two. New models are a direct fit when replacing previous models. 11amps.
LG
     LG is a well known household brand. We haven't personally tried a marine application yet. 12amps.

To smooth laundering...

10.1.12

Rivets, Divets and Bungs - 10.1.12

Want your fitted sheets to fit your berth? Just cut to size and sew on some elastic inside bias tape. Can't find bias tape that matches? Most sewing machines accept a bias tape attachment which allows you to create a bias as you go...just use the fabric you trimmed off for a perfect match!

7.12.11

Rivets, Divets and Bungs - 6.12.11

Need to run something down the mast? Hate trying to catch a line? Try this helpful hint from our dock neighbors (modified a bit by us):

Buy a thin line and cut it to exactly your mast length. Buy a cheap single speed bicycle chain. Connect the two.

Before you head up the mast to drop it down (WARNING: Going aloft is dangerous, and can result in death if not done correctly. If you have any concerns, talk to a professional. All information here is for informational purposes only, and is not an attempt by us to tell you how to proceed correctly, just which items we use for a job.):
1. Measure off the chain length on the OPPOSITE end of the line. (This way you have extra in your hand up top, yet know when it should hit the hole in the bottom.)
2. Put the cable, antenna and whatever else you need up with you in a bag. (We use the reusable grocery bags that ball up into themselves when not in use.)
3. Check the connection of your harness before hauling up. Hang off the deck a foot and make sure nothing gives. Use a safety line. And, be careful! Always work in at least pairs when aloft. (We like a climbing harness and self hauling pulley system.)
4. When aloft, drop the chain first down the mast to weight the line, and have your partner try to catch it through the hole in the bottom of the mast. (Easier said than done, and may take a few tries...but don't give up!)
5. Attach the cable that needs hauled down to the top of the line, and feed it down as your partner at the bottom pulls it out.

Enjoy!

(Oh, don't forget to climb back down.)

3.12.11

Rivets, Divets and Bungs - 1.12.11

As you go through your cleaning routine, don't forget your upholstery. Your settee can grow things just like the couch in your house if you don't keep it clean (as can your mattresses and anything else). Get a small, portable carpet cleaner and use it on a regular basis, any time you spill something, and definitely if there is a smell.  If the weather permits, throw the cushions topside to air out while they dry.  (If it is cold, don't forget to leave some heat on inside with them or they may take so long to dry out you cause mold/mildew from the cleaning.)

We use the Bissell Little Green ProHeat every week where kids play/monthly everywhere else, but there are many options available. They also have hard surface cleaners...we're going to test one soon! (So, stay tuned after the new year...)

29.11.11

Rivets, Divets and Bungs - 29.11.11

Looking to re-do your bright work during the winter season? (i.e. varnish your wood) Make sure that you look at the varnish can closely. Good varnishes have different compositions for different temperature ranges. This ensures that you get a good flow when cold, and you don't have it so runny that drying takes forever if hot out. (Also remember that if you are working inside, you will probably have the heater on...)

We use and recommend Epiphanes, though there are other good ones out there. Our rule of thumb, if it works for you stick with it and tell your friends! :)