September 18

What happened to Friday the 17th you might ask. Left Apia on Thursday then a day later landed New Potatoes on Saturday. Very confusing. Suspect that all those hours collected every 15 degrees since Florida were taken back. This seems terribly rude. Nobody mentioned a loan. Hope the vig doesn't hurt too much. Tomorrow didn't do any petty pace creeping this time.

Great sail all the way down from Apia. Arrived just before noon through a narrow pass into a beautiful, protected lagoon large enough for 50 boats. It's not raining, sky is mostly clear, breeze is perfect and it's not raining. Oh, and it's not raining. Without pratique until late afternoon, haven't been on shore yet but am fond of the place already. A resident caught a pile of fish and invited the anchorage (about 10 boats) to lunch tomorrow.

Clearing in with customs, immigration, agriculture and health was no fuss (except for waiting until 1730) as three little ladies came aboard with smiles and paperwork. Real pain comes Monday at payment of 135 Pa'anga (about $65), 100 of which is apparently for a hospital. As a sponsor, wonder if I can get some cool drugs or a complimentary operation. Wouldn't hurt to ask! Unless operation thing comes through, expect to leave Tuesday for arrival in Neiafu, Vava'u (vah VOW) during first day of week-long regatta.

Spent afternoon once again achieving self-actualization, this time by fixing nav lights. Todo list back into three digits. Traced problem to corroded connection in anchor locker where Star Kist cannery remains in evidence. Dumped all chain in the clean water before retrieving half not in use. Mo bettah.

Jack