Day 13 & 14

Skies are mostly blue, so the vast ocean, too, is its usual brilliant blue. The waves are smaller but are coming from everywhere, so Sidewinder has been doing the rock 'n roll dance all night and day. Used to think I loved dancing night and day, but maybe it would be quite nice to stop!

Yesterday we had a day off, cruising quite easily with good wind and following seas, sparkling sun to warm freshly clean bodies, and time to catch up on rest; it seems to be the most difficult part of long passages, getting used to watches and keeping yourself from wearing out. Flying fish still keep us highly entertained, a little cribbage helps us relax, and David is very funny when he makes faces through his new beard.

Trying to cook with the motion is quite challenging, and today might be the last day of somehow resurrecting the food that has now thoroughly thawed. After barbecuing this afternoon, David thinks he may be eating steaks, hamburgers, chicken and sausage nonstop until he pukes; we laugh at the thought of him gaining all his weight back in two days! The biggest frustration is not being able to save anything more than a day. Oh well. We certainly are not starving!

The sea birds out here seem to never have to flap their wings as they glide effortlessly riding the thermals off of the waves; it's amazing to think about how far away they are from land. I wonder where they sleep or do they? Finally we have a little time this afternoon to nap, read, write, and reflect..... Love you mucho

Day 14  Location: S 06 48' and W 124 04'  Hi there, buddy!  Yesterday afternoon brought awesome sleigh-ride conditions with the pole holding up our headsail. Ah, such moments of bliss to fill the soul. The late evening winds picked up, along with the bumps and chop, making the night watch intense side to side motion, which is difficult for Auto.  Being on the helm brings back a vision of riding four huge stallions who are running wild behind beautiful ocean waves ( do you remember that print of a painting you gave me long ago?) I thoroughly enjoy the experience but get quite tired after a few hours. David and I are enjoying the dance of supporting each other in many different ways; I think this is enhancing our friendship big-time. He is such a salty dog these days; you should see his beard!  Love to Leon and Margo with blessings for their wonderful journey. Love to Paula; I hope your stay was great. Love to all.  I miss you, buddy. Cross your fingers we can send this today.