Down at Artemis HQ the new squad have been busy learning how to drive RIBs, use VHF radios properly, understand the workings of the Academy and of course get to know their new boats. While coming back and forth to sit in on these sessions, and finish off the final boat work on the Mini (reinforcement to the deck), I have also learnt various techniques for manual lifting, studied ethics and fair working, learnt about medicines and applying cream and revised a few key disorders such as Dementia and Parkinson's disease. Next week I should be able to start shadowing some experienced carers before being let out on my own to do the job myself.
Back in the sailing world, the Mini was today launched back in the water. After finding all the right shackles and straps, up she went on a tiny, bright yellow crane. It was quite exciting to finally be back bobbing on the water, made even better by the fact that the outboard engine was working perfectly; after having ran it in a plastic bin full of water!Once we had left Venture Quays it was time to collect the training mainsail and big kite which had gone in for repair. After that I had a very cold climb up to the top of the rig, in order to fix our windex (an instrument which gives you wind direction). I had a great view right at the top, but soon got a numb legs after swaying about in the breeze!
