March 6
We had to motor a few hours the first night but since then the wind has been really good - we weren't expecting that so it's a welcome surprise. We also figured out the propane issue (we were told just hand tighten the connection but it had to be tighter to release the propane) so I'm able to cook (which Lee and the girls are very happy about!). We also finally got the hydrovane working, we hadn't really had the time before to get the last few parts in place and play with it - we haven't used a wind steering system before. We're figuring it out and it seems to work pretty well although we are still using the autopilot more. The autopilot is nicknamed Otto and the hydrovane is Heidi.
We flew the spinnaker yesterday but today we're under main and genoa. Had one squall during the night and a lot of lightning behind us from about 2 to 5am but that didn't affect us luckily. We're making pretty decent speed - currently SOG (speed over ground) is averaging about 7.5-8 knots.
We have also gotten off to a good start on lessons, we want to catch up with the school work on this leg.
2654 miles to go...
Pauline