Magic tea towel continues play

We all knew that today was going to be different! For a start, the quarter to, was at half past!
That threw us all! My usually neatly timed departure from my port side, aftermost cabin, via the team motivator in the upper mess, allows me to arrive at the bridge, hot cup of tea in hand, in time for the quarter to 9 morning meeting.
What is wrong? has the captain wet the bed, something more serious going on? Todays meeting was at half past 8! And so it was to continue. Ships routine has been thrown assunder and what will be next. Yes! you are right. Lunch not at 1230 but 1215. Has someone played with our clocks. Lunch was called and the bosun and his team were still involved in the upper rigging, doing a touch of extreme sewing ( another story). A job that would be completed by 1230.. Good glad we got that off our chests. Today was just different. Let it be said.
The sun was shining beautifully and we were bobbing at anchor off of a beach near to Santa Cruz De Tenerife. All the guests were ashore frolicing in the sea and local bars and the team was hard at work on board. The small moanings of an institutionalized crew are funny..I have to admit that a routine is very important but.....
It makes me think about how amazing this is!
Normal, nearly daily occurances....
Dolphins or whales swimming and playing near to the ship
Beautiful star spangled skies clear of light polution and clouds
sailing beneath stories of white canvas
Sunshine and warmth
The deep blue colour of the sea
sparkling phospherescence (spelling?) at night
Anyway we are all lucky.. After the general routine problems of the first pat of the day things improved.
Forgot to mention my after lunch nap in the warm sun on the deck.
later Chris and I ran ashore in the dinghy to collect the guests, half an hour before we were meant to, so that we can fit in a cheeky swim or a cold beer, or even both!
Then after they were all back, cocktails on the aft deck, (silly hats must be worn by the crew, photos to follow) A roast pork dinner, eaten alfresco and retired to the bar. Even later, still in the bar, musical instruments appear from all angles some story telling, songs, poetry and more songs eagerly and heartily sang, out of tune of course . At 2300 the ships bar is supposed to close! A tea towell was summond from the gally, draped nicely over the clock in the bar meant that a late night licence had been obtained and we continued late into the night.
My 6am alarm was answered slowly and I found myself on the bridge. Anchor home and secure 0645, steer course 0900. STFL, (set the fucking lot) sails that is and the sun rose perfectly in the East. The wind gently filled from the North and mount Tiedi on Tenerife, snow capped and glowing pink with the rising sun was behind. A cup of tea braught to me kindly and the morning meeting commenced at 0845. Now thats better!