Yesterday and this morning have been sort of a time out. I was in the midst of a ridge of high pressure, with little or no wind. Yesterday I made only 92 miles in 24 hours. Now, when racing, this weather is an absolute nightmare. But this time, I just take another cup of tea and continue reading a book. I motored a bit, also to recharge the battery, but an hour or two motoring doesn't help much on a 3000 mile crossing... I also slept a lot, and generally try to come to grips with this crossing.

In a way, it is much less exciting then the ostar. During the race, I was constantly trying to make the most of it. I was also very curious about the others, and looked forward to every report by Nicolette. Where is British Beagle, what kind of weather? How can I catch up with him? What is Dick Koopmans doing? Why does he have wind while I am becalmed?? It was a much more intense way of sailing. I have to get used to the lazy affair that this crossing is. But I have a couple of books left, so I will manage.

And besides, the weather is about to change. When this ridge of high pressure has passed (and that goes very slowly as I almost keep up with it), a new, deep low is coming up. This will give gale force conditions to the north of me, and also a couple of days of nice, maybe strong, westerly winds to carry me east. I can't wait!

Bart

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