I sailed past the big island of Hawaii today. Having talked it over on board (Hmmm, I may not want to say that out loud). We all voted (That doesn't sound good either). I decided... “No, I did. I helped. Well I voted against it. Everyone be quiet, someone's listening.” Anyways, today is Day 48 and I am starting the last leg to the Pacific Northwest and hope to be home in less than a month. Only about 2300 miles to go.

It was quite a ride though classic 25 knot Pacific trade winds! I have mixed feelings about leaving the trades behind. On the one hand, six 150 mile days in a row really covers some ground. Not bad for this old girl. But, I am exhausted by the pace and handling the regular squalls, today's lighter wind was a welcome and much needed relief. The breeze and seas also took their toll on the boat and the first windless day will be packed with sail repairs and other projects.

From here I will be back in latitudes dominated by high and low pressure weather systems, which means much more variable wind. It is already looking similar to the conditions I encountered at 20 degrees south of the equator. Seems odd that in the entire pacific transit, I have only seen 6 days of steady trade winds.

All is well and I am looking forward to getting home.