The extremely deep low with storm force winds we’d heard about sat over Scotland and heading our way was a ridge of high pressure, perfect for a crossing over to Spain. We did some laundry, sorted things on the boat, collected our parcel of spares from the office and topped up with provisions. We didn’t really need much as we’d been keeping the galley well stocked for just such occasions, it was an excuse I feel to head into town to check the pasties were still up to scratch. After seeing to a few errands we ducked out of the humid drizzle and had one of those lovely calorie free pasties! Si bought me some bigger shorts!!!

   The drizzle stayed all day until just after 6pm when with a sudden increasing wind shift the skies lightened and swift adjustments to lines were needed as we were squashed into the Dutch boat. It turned out little damage would have been done to this boat as it was designed and built by Gerry Dijkstra a famous yacht designer. We had commented as we crossed over her to the shore that it was a very well thought out, no frills sort of vessel: We were right. Si checked him out on the internet and Bestevaer moored next to us is his retirement cruiser. On our other side in the anchorage a yacht suddenly dragged its anchor then fouled a mooring buoy. The wind then eased.

   With night watched due to start tomorrow Si was getting twitchy that there wouldn’t be any treats for his midnight snacks. I made scroggin (a mixture of seeds, nuts and dried fruits), couscous kits (I hope these are better than the ones I had for tea last week) and filled a box with cereal bars, cuppasoups and beef jerky. He shouldn’t go too hungry!

   We’re moored about 50 meters from the Maritime Museum in a waterfront complex with shops and restaurants. We dined ashore tonight as meals will be afloat for several days now. Pizza Express was upstairs and had lovely views across the marina and harbour. Thinking of my new shorts I went for their new light version!

   There was passage planning and blog updating to do before bed as well as calls to my babies. I’m missing them so much already and hope we can get into a routine of Syping after the rush to get across Biscay in decent weather is behind us. It makes so much difference being able to see them with the webcam.                       ---Lini---