#116 NOW August 31, 2006 1300 (UTC -11 hours Samoa Standard Time) S13049.8 W171045.8 Anchored in Apia Harbour, Temp 89, Light Winds Greetings, Once again, the rhythmic beating of drums awakened me. The war canoes were out practicing again for the festival due to start tomorrow. These canoes are very large with a crew of 48 paddlers sitting side by side. These were all young men in very fit condition. At the bow was the drummer beating out the cadence. In the rear was a very overweight helmsman urging his crew to paddle a little harder. The canoe shot forward with amazing speed. I am glad these natives are now civilized, as it would be a frightening experience to see them coming towards you intent on doing battle. I dont think Done Dreamin' could escape them even at full power. The actual races should be very exciting. The good news is; I have stopped the leaks in the supply reservoir. It took several coats of epoxy sealant that I had. I will, be keeping a very close watch to detect any problems that might develop. There are better ways to cure the problem but considering the resources available here, I think it was the right decision. Removing the tank would have been very difficult and the chance of doing damage to it was a big possibility. In addition, I am not sure I could have found someone capable of doing a good job of welding stainless steel. When I get to Hawaii, I will take it out and fix it properly. As you may have noted from above, it is very hot here. Temperatures are in the 90s everyday and the humidity it about the same. When I was in town the other day, I asked a local if this was unusually hot for winter. He said that it was about normal. I then asked what it must be like in summer. His answer was about like this. So there you have it, 12 months of stifling temperatures. I am planning my next adventure to Iceland or Greenland. Thank goodness, I have air-conditioning on the boat. As some of you know, I have never been a sun worshiper. Give me a cool, cloudy day and Im happy. Apia is a friendly town. Everyone you pass greets you with a hello and a big smile. Religion is a very big part of their lives and you will find many churches of various denominations around the island. I feel quite safe walking around at night or leaving my boat unattended during the day. The Samoans seem to have a very close family network which probably contributes to there easygoing lifestyle. The country has strong ties with New Zealand and Australia. Much of their imports come from these locations. China also has a big influence here. The Chinese built the large government building, and continuous broadcasting of CCTV in English is one of the main channels available. It is similar to CNN, but with a definite Chinese slant. Prices here are cheap if you buy local things. However, imported things are sky high, one tomato for $1.80 US. A good stake dinner at a restaurant will cost about $11.00 US. A taxi into town (about 1 mile) $1.10 US, and I might add will worth it in this heat. Some things are impossible to find. I went all over town looking for a simple O-ring  No luck. Whats important is to enjoy the sights and sounds and absorb some of their culture. These will provide lasting memories. Life is a Cruise, Larry -- Larry Rick Done Dreamin' Nordhavn 40 #33 Site: http://gricknet.homedns.org/Dads%20Web/doneDreamnHome.htm