I'm writing this by moonlight during my 10 pm-1 am watch, as Scoots glides south along the Northern California coast, the water quietly shooshing along her hull, a light breeze from the north filling her sails.
[Moonrise in the east....]
I can't believe our days at sea have passed so quickly! During that first cold, rainy, uncomfortable day and night, I was afraid this trip would last forever...now I wish it
would.
Since that first night, I've found my sea legs; come to terms with the capricious nature of weather (bad weather always passes, nice weather does, too); adjusted to the demands of constant, unpredictable motion; found combinations of clothing and hand warmers that keep me comfortable on night watches; and aligned with the rhythms of the ocean.
[...Sunset in the west]
What an adventure it's been, so far! We've had a variety of conditions to try on, that's for sure! I've gained even more trust in Scoots' construction, design and capabilities as I've watched her take on with grace and certitude whatever the conditions threw at her. I've gained confidence in my sailing abilities, and been amazed by Eric's sailing instincts and abilities. When faced with potentially frightening circumstances, I've chosen to reject fear, choosing excitement or awe instead, turning what could have been an ordeal into an adventure.
But you probably want to know what happened today...After giving us quite a scare last night, Bender has been steering Scoots all day without a hitch. Whatever his issue with the rudder was, it seems to be fixed. Phew!
The weather was absolutely beautiful today! Sunny and warmish (only two layers of clothing!), but not much wind. We spent the daylight hours motoring, but put up the sails tonight.
[The Pacific living up to its name]
Some Pacific white-sided dolphins (the same kind that surfed the waves next to Eric yesterday), came by to play with Scoots for awhile. That was really cool. Later, I saw them, about a quarter mile away, leaping repeatedly out of the water and landing on their backs. What fast, graceful, athletic creatures they are!
We took the opportunity presented by calm seas and light winds to inspect the mainsail and repair a few small items.
So that was our day. Now we're sailing in the moonlight. Nice. : )