Well, we were hoping that the winds would settle down today so we could dive into these beautiful turquoise waters and see the aquarium that we are sure we are hovering over. Actually tonight as we enjoyed our Charismas in the cockpit we did see a manta ray swim by.

Unfortunately the winds have been blowing 20-25 all day. Early in the day it was also quite lumpy as the waves ricocheted off of the reef and came back at us. It has calmed down quite a bit and we are keeping our fingers crossed that tomorrow will bring much lighter winds.

So how do spend a day like this? I equate it to a rainy day in California. My first reaction is cookies in the oven! Done! Secondly there is nothing like a good book to hunker down with. I am almost done with “Hawaii” by Michener. Good day for reading. Meanwhile Bob has been playing radio/VHF/radar specialist. All day he has had his nose either in a manual or at the electronics panel. He has made some good progress. The radar is now properly calibrated and we can make direct calls to boats via their MMSI number (a unique capability of digital VHF radios such as we have). Given that VHF communications are open to all ears it is kind of fun to think we have a special way to contact our friends without the world following. Of course, those folks who are on constant scanning mode can follow but we’re betting those people are the minority.

It’s a little frustrating to be boat bound in the middle of the Pacific, but then you look outside or sit in the cockpit and watch the clouds float over changing the colors of the water and your frustration lightens. And we look forward to incredible snorkeling soon!