day 12 & 13

Day 12 (10 53 N / 121 32W)
Donna, I am taking your advice and working on a longer (6 hours) shift schedule. It can't hurt to try. Armed with coffee, I did some writing in my journal, emails, and now more writing. In this small space, it's hard to be quiet for the other person sleeping. Tonight, I think I'll skip the Coffee Break French podcast. Every 20-30 minutes, I go outside for a while to check for ships or other traffic. No stars tonight... it's pitch black, I feel so naked.... wait, I AM naked.
Hyo-jung

Day 13 (10 11 N / 123 32 W)
Today, three significant events occurred: 1) Rain, 2) Changed tacks and heading, and 3) Fish on!
Gradually during the last week, we could feel the increase in humidity in the air. Even with overcast skies, it feels hot after minimal activity (i.e., sail changes). The bunks are starting to feel damp. With the salt water sprays, handling lines or touching anything results in the subtle yet unpleasant stickiness. Yesterday, we had a bit of a mist, only enough for a tease. Today, we had some dark heavy clouds come by, drop some of its kindness, but leave too soon. This was definitely NOT the tropical squalls - as Steffi on S. V. Goldenlion described, "a drive-through boat wash". But we had enough to wash the sails and deck space of its saltiness and collect a bucketful of water. The rain was so welcomed by us as it cooled us down. What a difference!
Late afternoon, we gybed the sails for the first time since our departure and headed slightly more south. This means that the boat heels over to the opposite side than what we had in the last 13 days. Still the uncomfortable motions, but just different, you know, to break the monotony. What it really means is that, while sitting on the toilet, I'll lurch backwards instead of forward. You decide which is better because I don't have a choice. Just kidding... What is really significant is that, it feels good to make our next move and to know we are making progress.
We have not been keen on fishing since our fridge died and we can't keep a huge fish. But today, we caught a small yellowfin tuna, just big enough to feed both of us for one meal. On this tack, unfortunately, it is harder to work in the galley. Mike and I both stood, each pinning down a plate and a dipping bowl for soy sauce and enjoyed the sashimi. Okay, I feel more lucid today.
Hyo-jung