Dear Friends,

I usually write every 6 months, but this cannot wait.

Before setting off from Hobart I sent you this: 

We are both very much looking forward to our Tasman Sea crossing to Nelson, New Zealand.  The sea with its infinite cleansing powers should wash away all that earth life brings.  The simple, pure, essential existence will enable our rebirth / reunion to Neptune & Venus with only beautiful memories to cherish.

Were it not for Neptune’s (Pete) extraordinary seamanship, China Moon’s seaworthiness plus my indispensable endurance we might not have been here today. The sea nearly wiped out our earthly lives but, against many odds, we survived.

On arrival, our friends in New Zealand who were anxiously following our progress sent us this screenshot of the weather report, with the caption: 

“The pink one in the middle is you!”  

We were nearly in the eye of the storm.

Neptune estimated 12 days for 1200 miles of ocean passage. We took 17 days and sailed 1560 miles. The gale carried us off course for appx 150 miles in 2 days.  We hand steered for 6 days and nights for 673 miles in challenging conditions…. 

For the first few nights upon arrival I held onto Neptune’s body in a strong grip, dreaming all night about holding tight on a wip staff, steering the boat in stormy seas….. 

I am not sure where this ordeal leaves me. I need some time to recover from it. While Pete is repairing the boat damage, I am working on my own repairs, as I am ‘damaged goods’, too! Writing about it was cathartic. It is enclosed for those who have time to read.  Be warned, it is very long. Neptune did his piece too. 

Needless to say, I would love to hear from you, more than ever. 

With the warmest, earthy regards – I kissed the land on arrival! 

Linda – Exceptionally Heroic Mate +

Pete – Extraordinary Sailor