There's a New Day Dawning
We are tracking southerly at a heading of about 240 degrees, the sky is clear, the sun blistering, and the sea is flat with occasional swells. The mainsail has been hoisted primarily for stabilization, and it definitely minimizes the rolling. Bosun Bertram has posted the crew schedule and it has been my pleasure to participate in the 1st day dinner prep, 0200-0600 watch and then again the 12-1600 lunch, and maintenance duties. These schedules are very necessary, as this crew is made up of various experiential levels and leadership personalities. This was clearly learned through our provisioning activity. One can't just empower a group of individuals with a task without specific guidelines, or you might just end up with the tomatoes under the tin cans and most improperly stowed. Laughingly, another provisioning trick we learned was that a very excellent fruit and veggie hanging system was an excellent concept but without the proper screws, one might find a supply of lemons and limes in your bunk, or the galley floor.
The most difficult thing for me is “finding my niche.” This is not due to physical issues secondary to MS, but rather cultural differences. To my peers at home, just know that the “Magnet Nursing Hospital Concept” is not worldwide. You must be getting a chuckle out of this tidbit knowing me and my personality. LOL.
I have to remind myself of the purpose of my being here, and that purpose is to introduce sailing upon my return as an additional resource of growth for those in the MS community. If sailing isn't your “cup of tea,” then just do something you have a passion for, don't give up and become a victim. Remember life is so much more than MS, and if you get depressed remember what my husband said. ”Buck up little buckaroo and tell those who want to make you a victim to bark at the moon.”
Caio,
Sandy
Report from Bosun Bertram:
Sails up and engine off! Since yesterday afternoon we have been sailing on southerly winds of around 10 knots going between 6 and 8 knots on a south westerly course. Bit of current is still helping us, so we are making good progress right now. And even though it was a real shame starting out with so little wind, it also meant that we have been so lucky to have absolutely zero seasickness on board since departing Galapagos. Very calm waters disturbed only by the large swells up to two meters, but so far apart that you barely feel it.
Local time on board is 09:10 and our current position is 2,58.51S , 94,33.32W.