Final Week

The last couple of days have been quite busy but at least they have made the time go quickly.  After sailing Monday we headed up the Minches past my Benbecula, where Aunty Rosemary lives and anchored of Stornoway.  On route we conducted a paper exercise to test out the emergency response organisation.  Although it was a paper exercise it was useful to write all the signals and see how the system works. 

 

We then moved into the MCA and SALMO exercise, this was a little frustrating as we all got into position nice and early.  However the Emergency Towing Vessel was two hours late.  Parts of the exercise were interesting, especially when they called out the MCA helo to pass a tow line.

 

During the exercise I took a couple of photos on my phone, and then uploaded them straight to the internet.  I am still amazed by the technology that is now available.  I wonder what the future will bring.

 

Well I am now into my final week onboard, well final six days as I go home on Tuesday.  I really can’t wait to get on leave as after 5 ½  months, three Captains (or 4 changes of command), three XO’s and two Ships, I am absolutely exhausted.  I would like to think that when I get home I will be able to have a break but I know it’s not going to happen as I have my work cut out.  It should be more relaxed though and I am really looking forward to seeing Debbie and the little one.  I know Debbie is looking forward to me getting home as she is struggling at the moment and is finding it harder to get around.  I just hope the little one starts to sleep better because at the moment it seems she is up during the night and I could really do with one or two undisturbed nights sleep as I can’t remember the last time I didn’t wake up two or three times during the night.

 

I hope to have the opportunity to get a night or so wild camping whilst on leave but the time is rapidly running out as the weather will be turning.  I have so much to do at home with trying to get on top of the garden.  I also have quite a bit of decorating to do, I will be able to do that in little bits and I am actually looking forward to do physical work rather than mental work for a bit.  Hopefully I will be able to start loosing weight again when I get home.