Xmas Eve - Where's the wind - Sat 24th

Morning All

Up bright and early and thought that I would get this done so that I can continue with the thousand other things that suddenly needs to be done on the day before Christmas, which also happens to be a Saturday – last minute present buying, clean the house, wash Samurai who somehow has managed to get himself infested with fleas.

I spoke to Lee last night – so nice to hear her voice. I must admit that she is sounding very tired but happy. It is a huge adjustment to suddenly alter your sleeping patterns so radically. I know from experience that you eventually get used to it, but the first week to 10 days is really difficult. Obviously, being sea sick also does not contribute to one’s normal ability to handle sleep “deprivation”.

Their position as at 8:30pm yesterday was 38 50S 26 55E. They are currently going very slowly and will be sailing further south to try and pick up a stronger westerly wind. To complete the trip in the expected period of 55 – 60 days, it was necessary to sail at an average of 6 knots. The average yesterday was 3 knots. This obviously is a bit of a concern because you only need to do that for two days and you are already a full day behind schedule.

For those that are interested, Lee’s “children” (Samurai, Tiggy and Shylock) are all fine with Shylock most probably taking it the worst because he has no-one to lie on and abuse at night. Lee was telling Sasha yesterday that it’s strange not to wake up with a sore back because Shylock has made himself at home on top of her through the night.

I will be speaking to Lee again tomorrow morning (Christmas day) and will be forwarding her all your love and prayers and good wishes. I am sure that they cannot wait to crack that bottle of champagne and have a nice xmas meal. Lee has something special planned for them. Be interesting to actually find out how Lee (our culinary expert for the trip) is coping.

To all of you reading this, Lee and I wish you a wonderful long weekend, a blessed merry Christmas that is full of love and good times with family and friends.

Lee’s last words yesterday were: “I feel good, content.”