September 27-28. A 2 hour Birthday

Sept 27  While looking at the weather forecasts during our passage to Minervas Reefs  it was clear that the wind would be changing direction while we were there.  When you are anchored somewhere, you try to get some protection from the wind waves.  If the wind is going to be changing direction, this means that you may need to re-anchor the boat.  Since the lagoon has coral heads, you need to anchor in good visibility.  The problem is that the wind may change direction at night or early and late in the day when visibility is poor.  In addition, the forecast did not show a propitious time to leave Minerva Reefs for New Zealand.  With all that and "Heading for the Barn Fever", the Admiral says, "Turn left toward New Zealand now!"  So, Minerva Reefs will have to wait for another year.

Sept 27, 10:19 pm Watching the GPS  at 179 degrees 59 seconds and in 1 second we will cross the international date line and  it will be Sept 28.

Sept 28, 179degrees 59 seconds East.  9:20 pm .  So there you have it - I will have a 2 hour and 40 min birthday.