Well, once again the ITCZ is fulfilling its roll as a sailors nightmare. After a good couple of days getting here and a promising looking forecast, the weather models seemed to change their minds overnight. In 12 hours, we went from an ITCZ crossing that looked mildly pleasant and short to needing to traverse 800 miles with little wind. We do have our engines to help, but we do not have enough fuel to make it the full distance to the Marquesas. Unfortunately, that means we may have to float out here a couple extra days waiting for the wind to return.

On the bright side, we crossed the equator today! We passed this major milestone at roughly 129W at noon. This marks a huge accomplishment for McKay as her first crossing and she is officially no longer a "Pollywog" but is now recognized as a "Shellback" (someone who has sailed across the equator). I am very proud of her and amazed at how much she has learned and persevered to get this far. Be it, the cold sailing of Northern California, intense seasickness, or surly captains, she has come through all of it with a smile. She now has over 3000 nautical miles under her belt and many more to come.... Hopefully all tropical.

Fishing update: We hooked onto something big yesterday and it ripped the rod holder (with the rod) right off the boat before I could get to it.... Luckily it was my oldest rod and a cheap lure....I've got more lines out today and I am determined to land whatever is lurking down there. Here there be sea monsters....

Adios!