Monday 22nd December

dawnysmiff
18 hours ago
2 min read

(Covering the last 24 hours)

It’s been a real slog over the past 24 hours. We seem to be sitting in a bit of a counter current, which makes the sea more confused and the rowing harder work. Nothing dramatic — just relentless, awkward conditions that make every stroke feel like it has to earn its keep.

Yesterday morning’s dolphin visit definitely eased the pain and lifted morale when we needed it most, but it will be very nice to get back to some of the conditions we had earlier in the week.

We’re both feeling the cold at night now. Paul in particular — he’s far more used to warmer climates than I am! The damp and wind chill really creep in during the long night shifts, and it takes a bit more effort to stay warm and comfortable.

✨ Night Sky Therapy

My first night shift last night (7pm–10pm) came with a gift: clear skies. Time for some star gazing.

Jupiter is shining brightly, almost off the stern of the boat. But the brightest star in the sky is Sirius, sitting just off to my right. It twinkles red and blue at times, which is always fascinating to watch.

This star means a lot to me for a couple of reasons (yes — I am a geek).

Firstly, for night-shift entertainment I’ve been listening to the Harry Potter audiobooks. One of the characters is Sirius Black, and in fact there are twelve characters clearly named after stars or constellations.

Secondly — and more importantly — this is the star I pointed out to my little mate Niall back home. His dog passed away a few months ago, and he kept asking where “Wilco’s star” would be. This is the one I showed him. Sirius is also known as the Dog Star, part of the Canis Major constellation.

So even out here, surrounded by nothing but ocean, the sky still finds ways to remind me of home.