May 15

Ho hum, another spectacular anchorage at Tahuata. At least Resolution Bay allows one to surf his dinghy between the riprap to go ashore. Gary and Jackie caught an especially large breaker up into the rocks. Looked like those pictures you see of roller coasters just as riders realize they've made a terrible mistake. Dog-eared prop appears to have been lone casualty.

More head trouble. No, not the crazy one that got me here, the porcelain rascal that's been such a nuisance. After rewiring, tank gauge had again gone dead. Turns out that discharge siphon break was spewing effluvium onto new wire connection corroding it right through in just a few weeks. Bad stuff. Spent a delightfully heady afternoon repairing all. Gray clothing evidences that nearly depleted Clorox has been used for other than laundry.

After exploring Vaitahu, motored a few miles north to Hana Moe Noa Bay to look for mantas. Nada, but a nice beach and beautiful sunset followed by Mexican train dominoes on Jackster. I am a graceful winner.

Considered rising in the O darks to attempt Ua Pao by sunset tomorrow. Sixty five miles and eleven hours if the wind blows. Reconsidered. Sleeping in. Could go to Hanamenu on Hiva Oa tomorrow night for shorter hop next day. Alternatively, sleeping in could become habitual. Hey, what's paradise for, anyway?

Jack