Today was a definite change in the weather. Winds have slowed to a acceptable 18-20 kt range. We took down the staysail and the jib and put up the small Asail. We are moving along now at 6.5-9kts of speed. The waves are not as overwhelming but still having whitecaps. This Indian O. is hard to figure out. Just when you think it won't calm down it does. Last night was beautiful with the crescent moon showing up around 5am. The winds calmed down and I could actually get out of the cockpit enclosure and walk around. There were some stars out too for the first time in a long time.
One of the families on a Cat named Stealaway was heard on the radio talking by some of the other ralliers. They are not in the ARC but we talked to them on the radio on our way to Cocos. They are a beautiful family with 3 small children. They left Cocos a day earlier than us because of their concern for the weather. We heard that they had a near pitchpole incident yesterday and that their boat sustained some damage. They are some miles ahead of us and we will be on the lookout for them today. We hope they are okay and safely on their way to Mauritius. I will update as I know their status. Please keep them in your prayers. I am sure all your good thoughts at home and positive energies and prayers are having a positive affect.
We are well aboard Crazy Horse and looking forward to a safe arrival at Mauritius. The bread-making is going well and the crew is happily looking forward to another loaf today.
Bill, Rosemary, and Matt