Sunday, October 12, 2008

Wind, Engines and Questions

The wind and seas have been intense and consistant over the past 24 hours. The wind is at about 25 knots and the seas at about 10 feet now. I still have this annoying cross-swell that slaps Intrepid off of her course every now and then. I had to adjust my radar because the swells are getting so big they set off the radar alarm from time to time.

I have been getting some good feedback on anchoring under sail in Cocos Keeling. Thanks to Billabong Blog and Rob Jordan and the other commenters who have ideas for me. My filters are clean so it has to be something with the lines or the fuel pick up again. I'm hoping to be able to rig something so that I at least have time to set the anchor properly. I'll have to get to the yard in Mauritius and have them cut a whole in the tanks so we can see what is going on in there.



Mom sent over a bunch of questions from Bill and Linda in Camarillo. Here they are:


What has been your favorite and least favorite part of your journey?

My favorite part of the journey this far has been my stop in Majuro. The locals are friendly and the lifestyle is layed back. I had a great rest and food at the Robert Reimers Hotel. It was the last part of my easy Pacific crossing - easy compared to what came next anyway!

My least favorite part of the trip so far was my stay in Papua New Guinea. Even though I had some great people there assisting me, I felt stuck there because of my engine problems and the limited parts and service available there. Every extra day I spent there was a day I could not spend exploring Australia.



What has been your biggest fear?

My biggest fear so far has been the fear of falling asleep and not waking up for an alarm. Second biggest fear was navigatin alone through reefs.



What have you learned about yourself that was a surprise?

I was pretty to realize that I am OK being alone for long periods of time. Although after about 2 weeks I start to get pretty bored and restless.



What do you wish you would have done before you left home that you didn't get to do?

Change out my fuel tanks!!



What do you miss most that you thought you wouldn't miss?

I am really missing football. Football is your whole lofe during the season. I have really missed it out here.



What are you surprised that you can live without?

I am really surprised at how I have adjusted to eating so little.



Cheers,

Zac

52 Comments:

Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hey Zac! I'm glad to hear that all is (fairly) well.
It's funny that you mention missing football; when I'm at soccer practice, all I think about is sailing!

-Mandi (Jamestown, RI)

October 12, 2008 at 7:20 PM  
Blogger Douglas Pistone said...

Hello Zac & Everyone,

I'm sure the wild sea is driving you a little crazy now. Hopefully the swells will die down and the wind will keep you going full speed ahead.

Hopefully anchoring won't be a problem when you arrive.

Thanks for answereing all those questions that you were sent.

Sailo On,
Douglas Pistone
MDR, California

October 12, 2008 at 8:04 PM  
Blogger jlh said...

Hey Zac,

Sounds like you have been really busy with the winds and 10'seas. Wishing you the best as you deal with the cross-swells. You are always in our prayers.

The questions and answers were really interesting. Thanks for sharing that with us.

Blessings,
Jennifer and Ben
Sherman Oaks, CA

October 12, 2008 at 8:21 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

SD 30: NE 10
NO 34: Oak 3
Bears lost (%$#&!!!)in a wild game!
MLB:
Your Dodgers were on fire. Benches cleared at one stage but no punches landed. Pitcher tried to brush back one guy around his head.
Phil leads series 2-1
Bos Rays tied 1-1
What's your ETA in Cocos?

October 12, 2008 at 8:47 PM  
Blogger Unknown said...

Hey Zac,
Happy to hear about the wind turning in your favor a bit, but that wake-up slap on the boat has to be annoying!

Sorry to hear about that nagging engine problem. Please be more specific about the problem: Are you saying it starts normally and then dies, like it is not getting fuel or is it starting normally and running rough? and then dying? My Dad ran 100 diesel Semis for 50yrs, for a hobby (now retired) he has rebuilt 40+ antique gas engines. I have made him aware of the problem and he is now really curious of the symptoms. He said you are lucky it is not a diesel truck engine, filling one with gasoline would cause it to run wild and blow. Did you ever change out the injectors in PNG or AU? You have his curiosity piqued. Also, he said running a diesel engine out of fuel can be problematic.
Looking forward to Cocos, hope the mechanics there can get to the root of the problem. It may take all of your time there but having a well-running engine seems to be crucial when needed. Good luck.

How soon will you be in Cocos?
And, darn it, start eating something, it's going to start affecting your judgment! aside from the decreased energy level.

Hope you can get some sleep.
Kate

October 12, 2008 at 9:29 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Zac,
Thanks for taking the time to answer all the questions about you and your jouney, interesting stuff! Good to know you have great wind and are making good time now. enjoy the journey to Cocos-Keeling...you will be there before you know it!

Ray & Deanna
Clovis, CA

October 12, 2008 at 9:42 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hey Zac,
Enoyed the Q&A portion of your post today. As far as football, you know that Rory will have you covered with the latest scores, etc. I thought about you as my husband was watching the Dodger game this pm, and then I thought of Rory giving you the updates of all things sport.

Sounds like you've received some good advice regarding your engine issues. I imagine this isn't the best port to be trouble-shooting engine issues/problems. I hope it's something simple and that it can be solved easily without assistance or delay in your plans.

Can't wait to hear of your safe arrival in C/K! Sending prayers and good thoughts in your direction.

Melanie in Torrance

October 12, 2008 at 9:59 PM  
Blogger Morse Bear said...

Zac, Thanks for answering questions. It is always interesting for me to read your thoughts and what you are learning out there. I'm glad you have wind but hope the waves change direction and quit knocking you off course. I'm sorry to read that you are having engine problems again. You've got some uninvited gremlin keeping you company out there but causing you grief.
See if you can kick him off Intrepid in Mauritius. Good luck mate! - Rem

October 12, 2008 at 10:24 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hi Zac,

I drive diesel cars (old Mercedes-Benz). One thing that will confound a diesel is air in the fuel lines. Does your engine have a hand pump to bleed off any air in the lines?

My wagon has one, which needs to be pumped about 50 times, or until you hear the injectors buzz a little. Too much air= no start!

You might triple-check all of your fuel lines for leaks, especially any flexible (rubber) lines. Sometimes a tiny crack will let air in, but not be visible, and not be big enough to leak fuel.

I always start simple when troubleshooting Macs, and it usually works. I also question all assumptions whenever possible, often resulting in breakthroughs where others with more book knowledge and experience are unable to come up with workable solutions.

Stay safe out there, and check your lines for chafing!

Marc

About filters, do you have a clear in-line filter so you can see if there is crud in the system?

October 12, 2008 at 11:40 PM  
Blogger Tomi said...

Capt Zac -
I love the Q&As. Thx Linda & Bill for asking & Capt Zac for answering. Always get more insight when you do this.

Buggers, sounds like those bad spirits did make it on board from that fishing vessel :( Will need to pray harder now :D Hopefully, when you arrive in C/K they'll find it so peaceful there, they'll stay there & you may continue w/out further fuel challenges.

I don't recall the answer or maybe I've plain forgotten. Who're your fav American Football teams Capt?

Now that you have your stove pump again, what are you eating?

Capt-
When you arrive in C/K, ask if someone has a snake-line remote camera/endoscope they'd lend you. You might be able to see inside the tank(s) that way before you arrive in Mauritius & have to perform surgery on Intrepid again.

Thx to whomever put the donation link in Zac's Store. The new t-shirts arrived & have given them to all my family as very, very early Yuletide gifts. OOOO, I shoulda told them they were Columbus Day gifts! Darn!

Sorry to hear those rouge waves are being problematic for you Capt. Any visible wildlife lately? As a previous poster said the stars must be fantastic to view. Betcha got a good view of the Southern Cross.

Stay tethered & remember to take your anti-malarials!

HUGS!
Tomi/ATL

October 13, 2008 at 12:08 AM  
Blogger Debbie said...

Loved the Q & A Blog!! I had a busy weekend, so I am just getting caught up with all the news! This is the first weekend since you left that I have had to catch up!! You sound great and thanks for taking the time to actually answer some questions that "Inquiring Minds" wanted to know!!

Glad you are getting wind, but the swells sound a little scary!It must be difficult to see any ships coming your way.

Looking forward for you to reach Cocos soon, but not more than you I am sure!! Hope you can get anchored with not much hassle, but it sounds like you have some experienced Zac Packers that can give you the helpful advice you need.

Enjoy your stay, hopefully you can get your engine problem resolved. Darn Engine!!

Sending Prayer your way!!

Debbie
North Hills, CA

October 13, 2008 at 1:15 AM  
Blogger Galileon said...

hey Zack!

sorry to hear about your engines problems, hopefully you can get it fixed in Mauritius...btw Mauritius is my home country, and I'm so excited that you're visiting! too bad i'm not living there atm, or I would have tried to meet you...


What's this about "eating so little"????
I think its quite a dangerous thing to do - I had reduced my diet in March-July, then I got flu twice. The second time, I was so weak that I couldn't find the strength to get myself proper meals (I live alone). From there it went downhill, and only glucose and adrenaline allowed me to book myself a ticket home and get there.

Please look after your nutrition carefully dude, I would hate for something like what happened to me to happen to you...

Good luck with the rest of your journey, and be sure to visit the central market in mauritius, and try the "dall pouri" and "alouda", they're heavenly!!!

October 13, 2008 at 1:16 AM  
Blogger Anita said...

HI Zac,

Thanks for taking the time to answer the questions from Bill and Linda, I'm sure they were thrilled to see them.

Am off to work so haven't much time but wanted to wish you many blessings and will have to catch up with you later!

God Speed,
Hugs :)
Anita

October 13, 2008 at 1:50 AM  
Blogger Willyboy said...

Zac... Football? Heck, we can keep you up to date with football scores - but I suppose you mean watching. Now I'm curious: Do you prefer college of pro ball?

Glad the winds continue to be kind to you, now if the sea would just relax on those cross swells; sounds like Cocos Keeling may be in your sights before you know it. Hopefully you can straighten out the engine issue but most importantly get some down time in paradise.

Once this quest is complete, I think you'll have lots of fun visiting schools and talking to students about your adventure - in between breaks in production of the docu and writing your book, of course... :)

Cheer all

willy
milford, ohio

October 13, 2008 at 5:29 AM  
Blogger Unknown said...

For those who have not yet booked your places at our get together in Marina Del Rey, please be sure to do so.

Besides the obvious pleasure to be able to meet each other and the Sutherlands, there are some really great things that you will be able to bid on.

A very good condition 1935 Buffalo Head Nickel, mounted for display will be on the auction table, along with a rare find in this country, a pair of night vision Russian army binoculors.

For the wonderful women out there, there is a most beautiful string of elongated pearls.

Here is a chance to do some early Christmas shopping and help Zac both at the same time.

On behalf of Zac and the Sunderlands, I want to thank all who have sent in items for donation

Those wishing to see any auction items we have, drop me an email and I would be more than happy to send you a photo of them.

Hoping to meet as many of you as possible.

Zac, we are all thinking about you and wishing you a safe anchorage and enjoyable in stay in Paradise. We are trying to get enough money together so that you can afford that haircut you have been putting off.
Godspeed

Bill Mann
bill@barstools4u.com

October 13, 2008 at 5:29 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Dear Zac,
Loved reading your answers. It will be interesting to note the answers again when you have completed your journey.

Remember, you are never alone. God is always with you.
Yours,
KG

October 13, 2008 at 7:47 AM  
Blogger Unknown said...

Zac..I have read your blog everday since you left. I prepared a Tayana to do a voyage to the area you are in now but had to sell her. At any rate, I was reading your blog for today and the problems with your fuel system. I am sure you thought of this, but with my boat, when the seas were big and the boat rolled a lot, if under power, if I did not have enough gas in the tank, the fuel pick up would be exposed to air and get air in the intake which would shut down the diesel. Just a thought you have already thought of, I am sure. My prayers are with you daily.....
Doug

October 13, 2008 at 8:01 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Zac,

Thanks for the Q and A. I hope you have more in the days ahead. It really brings us all together. I have wanted to sail around the world since I was 10. However after reading about the engine, fuel tanks etc., I have no idea there was so much that you had to deal with. I still want to try, but have a better understanding as to what to learn. Any suggestions on books to read?

Remember to try fishing again, and just to fill the time, there is always home work. LOL

Keep up the great reports.

Bill
Minneapolis

October 13, 2008 at 8:13 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hi Zac,

Sounds like you're having a "swell time." Sorry to hear about your engine challenge again. It's always something isn't it? Knowing you, it will be solved as soon as you can get your hands on it.

Just think about that "cheeseburger in paradise" to get you through these last few days before you get a break.

Maureen
Boise

October 13, 2008 at 9:06 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Bill Mann-

Thanks SO much to you and Marilyn and all the others who are putting together the LA fundraiser night!

And Bill, I always enjoy your comments, I gotta grin a mile wide right now.

Zac-

I think maybe the fishing boat did offload some precocious spirits and they've taken up residence in your fuel tank! Are you missing PLAYING football or watching it or both?

What do you like to eat best (what tastes the best)? What book have you read so far that you liked the best? Found the most helpful? What part about not being home with your brothers and sisters do you miss the most? least?

Just some thoughts! Keeping you in thought and prayer!

Karyn in Simi

October 13, 2008 at 9:16 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

hey Zac!!!! sup???? I heard ya had some engine probs. I hope ur k!!!!me and my fam r praying 4 ya!!!! Jamie

October 13, 2008 at 9:37 AM  
Blogger johnnyBgood said...

zac -- thanks for answering the questions -- we love to hear what's on your mind.
as to everything else --- keep your chin up and remember ----"practice hope".
you are doing a great job, kiddo! john baker/w hollywood/ca/USofA
jbaker1226@aol.com

October 13, 2008 at 9:38 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Zac-
It is very interesting that today is Columbus Day, and here I am writing to a modern day Columbus!!!!
Hope the seas die down a bit and the winds carry you into C/K
Kodiak Mike

October 13, 2008 at 9:40 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Zac:

@Galileno: Zac, reread what this Zac-Packer is telling you. He speaks TRUTH! It happened to me also. During college, I worked full time and maintained a full time student load. Time requirements were great. The easiest thing to eliminate was preparing and eating proper meals ... just grabbing a bite of whatever when I could. My body suffered and my grades suffered. I wound up in the hospital with 'malnutrition' which was embarrassing and fed IV until all my vitals returned to 'survivable'. Do not take the easy route, because it is dangerous!

Promise us you'll keep up with your calories and nutrients. WE care about you, dude!!

The Croaker

October 13, 2008 at 9:53 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hi Zac and all,

Thanks so much for answering our questions so promptly. It gives us great insight, and hopefully a little diversion for you.


I am sure that you miss playing football, as well as watching some games.

To all of those affected by the fires today, we are sending our prayers.

We have been back in California only a couple weeks (after being gone for many years), and I have forgotten just how intense these winds can be.

Zac, wishing you fair winds and following seas (not from the side).

Bill and Linda
Camarillo, cA

October 13, 2008 at 9:57 AM  
Blogger johnnyBgood said...

zac--- i forgot to add ----EAT!
john baker

October 13, 2008 at 10:24 AM  
Blogger Becky said...

My prayer for you Zac:

'Give Zac this day, his daily bread...and fish; and something in between becalmed and 10' swells! AMEN!!'

Slocum baked bread on his sloop. How the heck did he do that in 1895? He also used to take advantage of the flying fish that stranded themselves on his boat. He made sure he ate well. You must do the same.

Safe sailing Zac!
Namaste~~
Becky in Colorado

October 13, 2008 at 10:38 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hi Zac,

I hope you have as good a time on C/K as you had on Majuro. I am sure the people are as friendly there as on Majuro, just you might not have as much time to enjoy.

All the best,
RK

October 13, 2008 at 12:43 PM  
Blogger Douglas Pistone said...

Hello Everyone Again,

@ Bill Mann, Thanks for sharing your story here with everyone yesterday. Even though you already told me this story from our private email communication among others it still saddens and inspires me every time I read it. It takes a special person to actually do the wonderful things you did and are currently doing for all your children. You have touched and inspired so many kids life's in such a special way. You Are The Man Bill. We don't mind if you take on yet another new son named Zac. Although he has great parents I know the love you're feeling. I saw that Smile on your face just now!!!

@ Jennifer & Ben, thanks for sending the post I wrote on yesterdays blog to invite people in your email contact list. It's amazing how small this world really is if we just talk and communicate with people. Invite everyone who will listen or read and hopefully this event will be Sold Out. Thanks so much for helping. Friends sailing out of MDR in my mind are a must show so please bring them with you!!!

@ Peter, loved the way you expressed yourself yesterday regarding Bill's post. I really enjoy reading your posts.

@ Glen, even people from other countries are writing on Zac's blog. I also had private communication with Glen and what a character he is. He's a True Argentinian in every way. No one will know or understand what this means unless you have spent some time in Argentina. They are a laughing country and express themselves in ways that could make you laugh all day long. They speak Spanish in a singing sore of way and theyt are a comical bunch. Great going Glen. As the say in Argentina "Che Pibe".

What a great group we have here.

Take Care All,
Douglas Pistone
MDR, California

October 13, 2008 at 1:26 PM  
Blogger Glen said...

Hola a Todos
Yo de nuevo...

Otra vez SOPA con el motor!!! no me jodas "CHE"...

El motor parece ser el "GRANITO DE ARENA" entre los pantalones por no decir Pain in the .....

Espero que le puedas dar una solucôn a bajo o ningun costo..

Ademas como te lo han deseado varios bloggers ( que tengas una exelente estadia en el paraiso)Yo tambien te lo deseo con mucho fervor!!!

To Douglas> check your mail ;-))

See you

October 13, 2008 at 3:53 PM  
Blogger Anita said...

@ Glen
Convengo, ese motor de Zac' ¡s es un dolor en ........!!!
¿Usted consigue mucho trabajo hecho en su rancho? ¿Usted levanta animales o cosechas? Aquí en el Estado de Nuevo York central los granjeros crecen maily cosechas tales como maíz, trigo de invierno, soja, etc. Hay también varios las granjas diarias.

bien; "talk" ¡a usted más adelante! Sienta libre de corregir a los españoles, it' ¿s probablemente un poco diferente que el español hablado en Argintina, no?
Anita

October 13, 2008 at 4:28 PM  
Blogger kirsten said...

Its cool that you answered those questions.Ive been wandering about some of those topics.



Bloggers Check My Blog!
-Kirsten

October 13, 2008 at 4:54 PM  
Blogger Unknown said...

A VERY rough translation of Glens Post.

=============

Hello to All again...

Again SOUP with the motor!!! do not screw me "CHE"...

The motor seems to be the "GRAIN OF SAND" among the pants or as you say a Pain in the ....

I expect that some bloggers can give a solution at low or no cost..

Ademas as they have desired it you various bloggers (that have an excellent understanding of the subject) please you help with a lot of fervor!!!

=======================

Anita, as you obviously have a great grasp of the Spanish language, would you like to take over the translation duties?

Bill

October 13, 2008 at 5:22 PM  
Blogger Unknown said...

Marianne and everyone in the north west area of the county and those in southern Ventura county.

If anyone needs any help due to the fires, please do not hesitate to call.

I am available to pet sit or lend a bed.

My prayers are with everyone in the fire area.

Bill

October 13, 2008 at 5:30 PM  
Blogger Tomi said...

After reading thru all the comments, I find myself laughing, crying & saddened/worried all at the same time. God bless the lot of ya & much thx!

Capt Zac!
You ARE EATING, YES?!?!? Your Mum, didn't help provision Intrepid for you to not EAT!!! Hungry or not, do as the astronauts do in space, find something that "appeals" to you & add some spices to "encourage" your palate. What? You don't have those on board? Just wait 'til we ZacPac'ers get a new ship to you address! lol Am so surpised we've not heard of any recipes based upon your current galley inventory. Lady Marianne & Lord Laurence, if y'all will provide us w/some of Capt Zac's basics I'm quite sure we can (hopefully not flood his email) w/very tasty recipes that are made w/minimal effort & including in semi-heavy swells.

By the way, I don't recall a single one of us hearing/reading how your studies are going. And your answer is?!? School's in session across the US. When the swells lessen a bit - HIT THOSE BOOKS! Maybe Capt you might be able to GRADUATE when you anchor at "home". One can hope at least! :D

Now EAT! Oh, don't forget the anti-malarials too ;)

HUGS!
Tomi/ATL

October 13, 2008 at 7:59 PM  
Blogger Tomi said...

PS Capt -
Think of it this way, when you arrive in your home port, what's gonna happen when you agree to play a friendly game of football all the other players CREAM you because you've lost so much weight?!?

HUGS!
Tomi/ATL

October 13, 2008 at 8:13 PM  
Blogger Unknown said...

Debbie, Linda & Bill and Karyn,

Please assure us that you are all OK.

All of you are in the fire area and I shall not rest until I know you are safe.

Bill M.

October 13, 2008 at 8:59 PM  
Blogger jlh said...

Our prayers are with those in the fire areas. We, too, are available to help. Please just let us know. Our e-mail is listed with the blog.

Tomi, your posts are a joy to read. I find myself salivating after some of your posts. You must be one heck of a cook!

Zac, please continue to eat! You do need your strength!

Our prayers continue, for both Zac and those affected by these southern California fires.

Blessings,
Jennifer and Ben
Sherman Oaks, CA

ps Zac, the Dodgers lost to the Phillies. It's Phillies 3 to Dodgers 1 in the national championship series.

October 13, 2008 at 11:17 PM  
Blogger Debbie said...

Hi Bill,
Thank you so much for your concern regarding the fires. I am fine so far. Just reallllly, realllly smokey!! I am about 5 miles from the Porter Ranch fire, but my son's home is at the 118 Fwy and Reseda Blvd., so I am a little anxious about his situation. Please pray for the winds to go away, and also for the unfortunate ones who lost their homes.

Zac, you can borrow some of our wind if you need some, but it sounds like you are getting your fair share too!! I hope you are getting close to Cocos Keeling. The blue waters looks so beautiful!

Looking forward to seeing everyone at the MDR get together!! I have my Tee Shirt so I am ready!!

Thanks again Bill for your concern. Can't wait to meet you!

Proud to be a Zac Packer!!

Debbie
North Hills, CA

October 13, 2008 at 11:36 PM  
Blogger Anita said...

@ Bill Mann
Glen has been helping me correct my Spanish, but I could try; personally I think you are doing a great job!! I'll take the next post and we'll see how I do!

Anita

October 14, 2008 at 1:33 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I believe this is what the blogger from Argentina has said:

Once again - soup - in the motor! No me jodas (a swear word with no exact translation) "CHE" - a familiar greeting among friends in Argentina.

The motor seems to be "a small grain of sand" between your pants - like to say pain in the. . .

I hope that you are able to get a cheap solution or at no cost.

Furthermore, as other bloggers have wished - hope you have an excellent stay in paradise - I wish it also with lots of zeal!

October 14, 2008 at 6:56 AM  
Blogger Bob said...

Hi There Zac,

You must be getting close now! Try that engine one more time. Remember in the good book where it tells that the disciples had fished all night and caught nothing, and when the Lord instructed them to cast the net on the other side of the boat, the nets came up full. Remember His timing is always best. Just sayin'.

Bob in OKC

October 14, 2008 at 7:17 AM  
Blogger Douglas Pistone said...

Hello Zac & Everyone,

Wanted to say a quick Thank You to Bill Mann and everyone else for offering help to all the fire victims. Like I said before Bill Mann you are the Man.

@ Bill Mann, pet sitting or a bed. You never cease to amaze me. I wish I had the space to make a offer like yours.

@ JLH, for also offering help to the fire victims.

@ Glen, please keep writing in English. We do understand you and we are glad we have a Argentinian writer on Zac's blog.

Everyone who is in the effected fire areas please check in with us if at all possible. My partner yesterday had to also leave his home because of the fires. We must however understand most people have computers at home and if they are evacuated we might not hear from them for a while.

Zac Sail On,
Douglas Pistone
MDR, California

October 14, 2008 at 7:39 AM  
Blogger Clay said...

Ahoy Zac,

Your well on your way around, taking it all in Zac.

Tomi: My little Yorkie gave birth to five puppies, too cute.

Cheers

October 14, 2008 at 8:37 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hi Zac,

Are you in C/K yet? Your Saturday post indicated that you would be there in "a few days." Since we didn't get a post last evening, I'm wondering if you've docked and are busy trouble-shooting your engine problems, or perhaps out making friends! Please post some pics when you are able.

@ Anita, Bill, and Sue (the Spanish teacher): thanks for the translations of Glen's posts. I enjoy his posts and his sense of humor.

@ everyone in the valley: I hope you are all well. The fire really kicked up overnight. I have two friends that have had their families evacuated; one family in Porter Ranch and the other in Granada Hills. Am praying for less wind and blessings to our valiant firefighters. They're the best!

Melanie in Torrance

October 14, 2008 at 9:03 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

thinking of you Zac! hope all will go well with your anchoring!

@Glen: I LOVE reading YOUR posts!! I can hear your accent in your own words - Douglas is right -we CAN understand you! It's way more FUN to 'hear' from you (although Thank You to those who are able to translate!)

All of you affected by the fires - my heart goes out to you and your families - I live in Canada and it's pretty tame here weather wise on the West Coast!

It's great to read from the bloggers of how to anchor in such difficult/different situations - I love reading your helpful posts!

I've been following since just before Zac left in June! Love the updates from you Zac!! Thanks for taking the time to answer those great question yesterday!

I'm slowing turning my globe on my desk beside me!!!!

Keep up the great work...
Barb from BC!

October 14, 2008 at 10:38 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

How's it going Zac? I read about you in a magazine curriculum called GOD'S WORLD NEWS. I read about how you kept going back to New Guinea for repairs on your backup engine, and me and my family are praying for you. Matthew, Greenville, SC

October 14, 2008 at 11:01 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Have fun on the ocean!

October 14, 2008 at 12:25 PM  
Blogger Fulgum said...

Zac,
That's great about all the wind. You're probably really flying. But how far to Cocos Keeling? I hope it keeps up!

Scott

October 14, 2008 at 1:59 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hi Zac,
Hopefully you are just about setting anchor in K/C about now and ready to figure out what the heck is going on with the engine!! Lots of us here have our fingers crossed that it will be a easy problem to fix and you can spend some time enjoying K/C. We look forward to hearing from you and hearing how things went for you.
As always, you are in our prayers!

Marianne, Laurence and all the other ZacPac crew:
So sorry to hear that those pesky Santa Ana winds are once once causing so many problems with the fires in your area. I am originally from the Canoga Park area and remember the hot desert winds coming in from the east. May God bless you all and keep you safe. Thanks Bill M and others for so generously looking out for our ZacPac Valley family with offers of help. You are all a great bunch of people and wish I had the opportunity to meet you.
All the best!
Terri
Gloucester, VA

October 14, 2008 at 6:44 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

hey zac good luck n cocos keeling!!!!Jamie

October 15, 2008 at 4:57 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

we are praying for ya!!!! Jc

October 15, 2008 at 4:58 PM  

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