Makemo

We're on our way to Makemo- our first stop in the Tuamotus. It's our third day out and it's been our best passege by far; good wind and sea state- all's mellow and well. We should arrive tonight, but will have to heave-to and wait for dawn and slack tide to enter the atoll. The boat is covered in salt sprinkles due to the sea spray and sun, but I think Brittnay is happy to be back on the open seas. Krister and I are excited to be moving on too. I've been meaning to write another blog post, but I'm so far behind I'm not sure where to pick up again. Every day is exciting and new- wish I could post all our photos. I best start close to where we left off just in case I don't get back to it later.

We arrived in Ua Pou from Anaho and I was surpised by how much grassier and drier it was, no lush green forests like in Nuka Hiva even though they lie a close 30 miles from each other. The anchorage was tight; bow and stern anchors required. We were the fifth boat to squeeze in behind the breakwater- our friends on Piko we not so lucky and found a rollier spot outside. I'd heard that they fit 12 boats in just a few days before our arrival and could hardly believe it. But not more than 2 days later we had a crowd of 14 and plenty of excitement. We could've jumped onto our neighbors boats many times. You'll have to see the pictures, it was just like being in a marina but with out the dock.

We spent a week playing games (Boggle and Scattegories), hiking around town and over to the next bay. I caught up on laundry and meet a few new boats- Nahanni, Noho Anna, Don Quixote, Kitty Wake and La Fiesta. Cruisers are some of the best people I'll ever meet! So friendly, helpful, adventurous and just plain good folks. I'm grateful to have this community of friends along with us for support.

On Friday the only secondary school on the island had their open house. The students study there until they are 14 and then, if they want to continue their education they go to Tahiti. It was a bit like a vocational school; they have a machine shop, where students leared construction techniques, a sewing and needle point class as well as traditional cultural classes. We enjoyed live dance and drum performances by both the girls and boys. Everyone was very friendly and welcoming, and we were happy to be able to share in the local festivities.

We waited out a weather system over the weekend- 30+ knot winds and 10+ ft seas, and decided Sunday evening would be ideal to move on to the next island chain. Which brings us to our present location Wednesday, June 1st 2011 at 15 48 south, 143 08 west. Our autopilot is sucking down all our juice and so to instead of individual emails, know that we're thinking of you all and appreciate the sat phone texts, and emails. Sending much love!