Mate's Log - July 12, 2001

04:30
Still motoring, calm all night, but the radar is starting to squawk and I see dark clouds behind us that indicate a squall coming our way. The wind is up to 10 knots, after the rain comes I hope can set sail. Will close off now, in anticipation of turning off the engine.

Position: 55-31-19.8N 35-37-10.8W

12:37
Today we enjoy 360 degrees of varied viewing. We each have our own side of the boat and compare what we see. My side has gentle gray silver liquid lulling itself off to infinity. The sky has a huge bright white cottony blanket with vivid patches of blue sky sneaking through. On the horizon, little lace like fluffy puffs build into abstract painterly squiggles stuffing themselves into the sky's comfy coverlet. Birds flying are silhouettes of majestic acrobats. My view feels soft and mystical.

George's side has deep blue swells rolling toward us from the edge of a flat earth. We feel their power as they greet us with the rocking of the boat from side to side. The sky is streaked with gray and white layers leading up to a massive dirty white tower piercing a brilliant blue sky. On the horizon, a distinct stream of solid little clouds shaped like icing scallops on a birthday cake, hover a safe distance from the water line. Birds flying blend into the busy reflective textures. George's view is crystal clear, well ordered, and infinitesimally defined.

Ahead of us the bow bobs up and down as if to mark where our unique worlds blend into a singular view. The luffing of the sail reminds us where we are headed. Later I notice some of George's sky shapes have rolled over to my side, and his deep blue rollers gain a silvery tint.

Quote:
Holly: "So are you worried about us running out of fuel?"
George: "No. We'll be like Shackleton and learn to survive."

Today George gave up on the frozen screw of my door, drilled and tapped a new one for my handle. Then he took apart the charger of his drill....

Holly

Captain's Log - July 12