On the blocks!

The previous post showed the barkentine Gazela in position in the graving dock. Today we take a look at her on the blocks. These photos are large on purpose. They’re excellent eye-candy for people who appreciate all things nautical. Let’s start with the long view:

Sailing vessel Gazela on the blocks at the former Philadelphia Navy Yard.

Sailing vessel Gazela on the blocks at the former Philadelphia Navy Yard.

Moving closer, here’s a dramatic view of the bow.

Bow of the Gazela in the graving dock at former Philadelphia Navy Yard.

Bow of the Gazela in the graving dock at former Philadelphia Navy Yard.

And here’s a view of the stern:

Looking up at the stern of Gazela on the blocks at former Philadelphia Navy Yard.

Looking up at the stern of Gazela on the blocks at former Philadelphia Navy Yard.

And finally here’s a view from above of both Gazela and the lightering barge.

Gazela and barge in graving dock at former Philadelphia Navy Yard.

Gazela and barge in graving dock at former Philadelphia Navy Yard.

Now the work begins, repairs and refits. Keeping any vessel afloat is lots of work. The reward is in the sail afterward. Stay posted for more updates. (For those interested, these photos were taken with a Nikon D810 and 17-35mm lens.)

Published in: on July 31, 2015 at 4:36 pm  Comments (1)  
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In position…

The previous post showed the bottom of the graving dock in the Philadelphia Navy Yard. Today we take a look at the square rigger, Gazela in position over the blocks.

GazelaDockFloat

Gazela in the graving dock at Philadelphia Navy Yard.

Notice the aircraft carrier in the background. Here’s another look at the team positioning the stern over a buoy so they know the keel will land squarely on the blocks.

Crew checks the position of Gazel's stern while as the graving dock is emptied.

Crew checks the position of Gazel’s stern while as the graving dock is emptied.

I hope to get back soon, taking photos of the ship high and dry. It will be interesting to see the hull shape as well as observe the repairs and refit that will be underway.

Published in: on July 29, 2015 at 8:07 pm  Comments (1)  
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Cheeseburger!

Sometimes you crave those comfort foods that really hit the spot. For me, it too often is the cheeseburger, as you see in this glorious example:

Cheeseburger as enjoyed at The Classic Diner, Malvern, PA, USA.

Cheeseburger as enjoyed at The Classic Diner, Malvern, PA, USA.

And check out those onion rings, perfectly battered and fried. Wow. All this, and more, enjoyed with ice-cold Coca-Cola at The Classic Diner, Malvern, PA, USA>

Published in: on July 22, 2015 at 4:52 pm  Leave a Comment  
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Barbacoa, Ardmore, PA, USA

Barbacoa serves up your favorite smoked and/or roasted meats. Everything from chicken to pulled pork to brisket is on the menu, along with all the sides you love, including mac and cheese, fries, slaw, and the works. As you can see in the next photo, this is a small joint where you can BYOB.

Barbacoa, Ardmore, PA, USA.

Barbacoa, Ardmore, PA, USA.

Inside you find several tables for 2 and 4 persons. They also do take out, satisfying that need for a party or social gathering. Let’s take a look at the 1/2 pound brisket platter:

1/2 pound brisket platter at Barbacoa, Ardmore, PA.

1/2 pound brisket platter at Barbacoa, Ardmore, PA.

That is more than enough for two people to share, especially if you add some sides. And here is the salmon burger:

Salmon burger at Barbacoa, Ardmore, PA.

Salmon burger at Barbacoa, Ardmore, PA.

What a feed! Seriously, this was a hearty meal at a very fair price served by friendly staff. I’ll be back here often.

Published in: on April 15, 2015 at 1:11 pm  Leave a Comment  
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