The Daytona 500 shouldn't have come on such a beautiful day.

Congratulation to Jimmie Johnson for winning the 2013 Daytona 500. I knew that I could blow off the race and still get all of the highlights at 11. Actually, it was much later as the academy awards ran over. Movie people and their acceptance speeches. Loved the Jaws theme. 

Instead I went for a solo-sail and it was epic. My first time solo with sails up on FBG. She's not rigged for solo stuff so it was a good workout. Fortunately, the breeze kept light so the boat's big main sail was easily managed. It was a great day on the water; quiet, tranquil and relaxing moments interrupted by segments of hard work. And totally worth it.   

My excuse was sea trials for the new depth and speed gauges recently mounted on the mast. I was concerned the depth gauge was a little small but I could read it from the helm just fine. The Standard Horizon, that I picked up for under $50 when Boaters World went under, worked great. It has water temp, a countdown timer and logs the trip's time and milage (great keeping up with the adjusted finishes).  

Yesterday was great break from the snow, rain, cold and otherwise gloomy conditions. The Ground Hog has promised a short winter and I am holding Pete to it. Spring and warmer weather can't get here soon enough. Yesterday's boat ride was a great tease of weather to come and I loved it. Victory at Sea in 2013!