Building up momentum

What a fantastic run we've had last night.The swell is building,the wind
steady between 9-12 kts apparent and we are averaging just over 7
kts/hr.Fastest speed we've had was 8.8 kts.We also lost our navlight
lense up front.The loose headsail we fly with the furling genoa is tied
down with a line between the two cleats and although I tied it down
tight to prevent this from happening,it happened.When we get to
St.Helena we will see what we can get,in the meantime a small tupperware
bowl will suffice to protect the globe.We just by change also have red
and green lids from which I will rig a temporary navlight.Fortunately
there isn't much shipping this way but we will take extra care on our
watches.

It is Lisa's birthday today.Lisa is Brad's lady friend and spend some
time on the boat while we were in Cape Town.Happy b/day Lisa and may the
year ahead be the best one yet.Brad baked some cappucino muffins to
celebrate Lisa's 24th.I'm sure they still check her ID at places where
no under 18's are allowed.

As for Pieter,he was shocked that his wife Bonny isn't missing him much
yet.Whilst in Cape Town they invited us over for a braai on Thursday
night,two nights before our departure.We had a feast,excellent company
and enjoyed it very much.Bonny.......have a heart!Tell Pieter you can't
breath without him,can't think,can't sleep.Just joking.They have got
plans and this is part of it,and they are willing to pay the price.Looks
like Pieter is getting better at not feeding the fish.Maybe Bonny's
tough love stance is doing the trick for him.

As for me ,I am also missing my family dearly.Fortunately they are used
to it and we have learned to adapt.My little one has started gr 2 and
she seems to be growing by the minute.

I just let the lure out again and conditions look very good for catching
a fish.Not many flying fish around yet.Yesterday we had a visit from
some whales.Pieter saw them and said they were rather small whales.Could
have been pilot whales.I always try to get a photo or two to assist in
identifying these beautiful creatures and have obviously also had more
experience to look for certain characteristics which would make it
easier to identify.

My turn to cook tonight.Beef stew with rice is on the menu.If you want
to reserve a seat,places are limited so please book well in advance.

Our position now at 11 am is 29*04'S/012'02'E.Wind 10kts SSW.Hope to be
at St.Helena next week Friday.

Go you well.

Paul