Friday, February 12, 2010

A Fish and Some Sun

I didn't get my 50 knots Wednesday night. I did get some nice wind, getting all the way up to 35 knots. Nothing that big, but that is the strongest wind I've had since I've been out here and it was very nice to have! The swells have been pretty big. Today they're not so big, but Wild Eyes and I have been having a lot of fun surfing out here except for the occasional wave crashing over the whole boat.

I haven't had any luck with my fishing so far, but I have caught a fish! It is a flying fish about one inch long... nothing too impressive...

The sun came out today and it was a very nice change from all the clouds. It was nice to have my solar panels charging rather then running my engine. But now its all cloudy again and just starting to rain. Eeven with all the clouds and rain, it has been incredibly hot, especially down below. I have had to spend most of the day outside, at least the water is still cool... I'm not looking forward to getting closer to the equator where even the water is hot!

Looks like I'll be experiencing the doldrums sooner rather than later. The area of no wind is stretching as of right now from 12 30N to about 7N. Once I get south of 7N I should be able to pick up the Southeast tradewinds and sail pretty nicely from there. From there we will be close hauled trying to sail in the SE winds and make my way towards the Horn. I will not be getting near the coast of South America because the winds are contrary and there is a high pressure system off the coast there.

For now all is good on board. I'll get to some video uploading soon now that things should be calming down a bit and also to answering more of your questions.

Abby

104 comments:

  1. Hi Abby

    I am just a random dad who is enjoying following your journey.. and I am praying for you too!! I have 4 kids and although I would be nervous if you were my daughter I am cheering you on! Always impressed with young adults who take such ownership and drive to accomplish great feats ... its a rarity and I'm impressed!! God speed to you!! Web

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  2. Too bad about the fishing! I hope your luck changes on that! Good luck and I will be following you the whole way.

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  3. Sounds like an amazing adventure so far. Can't wait to see the video.
    take care and God bless
    Dale,Kelle and Sierra
    Montrose,Co

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  4. Hey Abby!
    I departed Cabo san Lucas just a week before you pulled in! Sorry I missed you!! My 2 days at Cabo were great but not so much once I got back on the water. I felt queasy for a couple of days after I got back at sea even though I had been careful not to drink the water in Cabo. The other thing I discovered 5 days out is that somehow I had taken aboard some little friends. Little spiders kept showing up in my hair and in my bed! Normally I just smash the buggers, but these babies can jump! My mate in Cabo said they crawl up the mooring lines, so hopefully not too many made it aboard Wild Eyes. Especially since you're cooped up b/c of the rain, you are more likely to find them - or vise-versa! If you feel an itch, slap fast! Fortunately I'm back in Seattle so I have exterminated my boat! Best of luck with your hatchlings.
    Jim in Seattle
    P.S. Here's a pic of our tiny furry hoppers!
    http://www.mexicovacationtravels.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/jumpingspideropoterser.jpg

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  5. So, so impressed with what you and Jessica are doing. Keep posting, it's very interesting to many people out there.
    Chris (a 'neighbor' from Dolphin Marina in MDR)

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  6. Abby,
    glad things are going great so far.I am awaiting your video soon. I am curious about your safety on the deck during high winds. Are you wearing some type of harness. Keep up the good work... I will continue to keep you in my prayers.
    Gerald
    Seal Beach, ca.

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  7. Thanks Abby, much. You'd never believe how anxious some of us high and drys out here get waiting for your update. But please don't neglect Wild Eyes to talk to us...we'll keep. Oh yes info: it is snowing in the Florida Pan Handle tonight and in LA too I hear. (that's Lower Alabama).

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  8. Abby
    great to read about your progress.
    Particularly the wind systems and Lat/Long factors in your route strategies.
    Congrats at catching that fish!

    Bruce Stanley/Sydney

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  9. Hi Captain Sunderland; Thank you for the update. Please allow me to enlighten you about fish stories. You are supposed to exaggerate the other way. Something like "The fish was so big, I didn't believe it, so I threw it back in". Never tell the truth! The first person to ever fish, was a liar. That's been the tradition ever since. Don't take my word for it however. I've done a lot of fishing in my time. You may want to consult your dad on this. All the Best, Alfred
    Vancouver, Canada

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  10. Hi Abby,

    The stronger winds have helped you sail some nice daily d.o.g, and yes you are into the doldrums at those latitudes you mentioned, going back to your shakedown sea trial 'Wild Eyes' moved along easy in light conditions,do you have an MPS? a NE would be better than SE though.

    A 1" non legal Flying fish, dosen't even make good bait fish, glad you packed the dinner boxes,:):) Oh by the way you did pack your tooth brush, just in case neptune drops in on you?

    Looking forward to the videos.

    Keep Smiling, Safe Passage.
    Brian Riley
    Hervey Bay.
    Queensland AU.

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  11. Hi Abby, Nothing feels better than being in the open ocean racing off down the front of a wave. You feed off the power of your boat and the elements around you, when you feel your transom rise and boat pick up speed even the most seasoned sailer will get a thrill each and every time.
    Reading some of the blogs your getting I'm dissapointed to see so many references to jessica as if your out there following in her footsteps.
    Us real sailers know you're both out there alone sailing your own race, we pay homage to your guts and like sliding down the front of a wave get our own form of excitment from your adventures.
    Tell your ground crew not to try and sell your book until your home, its embarasing and tempting fate. when I placed a blog on J's web site questioning the bringing of bad luck and jumping the gun it was not posted.(sorry Jess)

    Pete from Perth

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  12. Thanks for your blog.....You and Jessica rock!!
    Martin
    Slippery Rock,Pa

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  13. Interesting reading about Jim's jumping spiders! Have you found any stowaways yet? Maybe you could invent little saucers which go around the tow lines to keep them off the boat like the big ones do for rats.

    Hey we don't want the doldrums because you got the "weather window" concern, remember. So no doldrums for you my dear. We expect wind in your sails and nothing less! I see by inverted teardrop 21 you've turned South. I was wondering if you had abandoned the effort and decided to vacation in Tahiti instead.
    I suspect you were trying to get outside the shipping lanes and maybe the wind was advantages farther out. So you are now at about 15N and the doldrums start at 12.5N, that's 150 nm. So you'll be in it Sunday. Hope the forecast improves.

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  14. Just learned of you & your journey and am so impressed with what you are trying to accomplish! All the best to you! I look forward to reading your next post :-)

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  15. Thanks Abby.
    Steady sailing
    Luv
    Richard (QLD) Aus

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  16. Bonjour Abby & Wild Eyes,

    Moving along nicely if slowly.

    Take care, be safe.

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  17. Abby,

    Flying Fish are some of the best breakfast fish i have ever had. just fry them up if you liked the sushi you will love them.

    Scott

    Team Abby

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  18. ♥ gommie - over the hill in VenturaFebruary 12, 2010 at 6:47 PM

    Hi Abby- Thanks for the update- I think all of us following you are grateful for these updates- I know your blog is the first thing I check when I wake up in the morning, and the last thing I read before bed- I keep trying to put myself in your shoes, but I can't manage to stay in them for long because I quiver myself out of them at the very prospect -
    You are a courageous young woman-I wish I had some of your grit-- you are my hero, as always you are in my prayers daily- happy sailing- (-:
    Save some chocolate for ♥ Day..

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  19. Abby:
    You are one of the highlights of my day. Know that you are never alone, and that you have so many of us that are with you in spirit. That good energy and positive vibrations that you feel at all hours of the day and night is real. Know that the "good energy" is always with you, and very real. Godspeed.
    David

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  20. Abby,

    You’re making great progress. I bet Wild Eyes does fantastic in 35 knots. It is nice that the water is still cool. I’ve fished in the Sea of Cortez when it was blazing hot and the sea water was over 80° F, so it was pretty hard to cool off. By looking at you route map, it looks like you’re not too far from 12°30’N. I hope the doldrums don’t last too long for you. Hey, if nothing else, the flying fish add a little bit of entertainment. Take care, Abby, and have fun.

    From Seattle, WA, USA
    SaltyDog

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  21. @RichieParis: Your comment on Feb.12 5:48AM was very well said. I certainly completely agree with you. Very few bloggers have the knowledge to offer technical advice to an expert shipwright like Laurence Sunderland or sailing advice to someone with Abby’s experience. All that most of us can do is offer our words of support and encouragement to Abby. When done with the dignity that Abby deserves, I can’t imagine that she minds hearing from us.

    From Seattle, WA, USA
    SaltyDog

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  22. Yo Abby,
    Good to hear from you. And, you have wind! I really look forward to you every day. Very exciting, for us both, I think.
    Where are you know, (how far N?), I'm just wondering how to follow you.
    Have fun, maybe see you again tomorrow.
    Fair winds...

    IndyMike
    39*50'19"N, 86*9'20"W

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  23. Hi Abby...!
    So many of us following you...!
    It's our own adventure too....!!
    Thanks..!
    God be with you.

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  24. Cobrarog in Hervey BayFebruary 12, 2010 at 7:37 PM

    Abby, those little squid are too small for calamari. You can do some dishes with them but they stick to the roof of your mouth!! Hee! Hee!
    Laurence, your update was most welcome, interesting and comforting, to know that Abby has such a professional team behind her. You are the epitimy of a good old fashioned carring father who has raised and nurtured two very mature youngsters, who have captured the imagination of people around the world. When I sensed the pride you evoked, on your flight over Wild Eyes, to watch your "little girl" heading off by herself, I choked right up. I know that feeling first hand.
    If there were more parents like the Sunderlands and the Watsons, this would be a much better world in which we live.
    Very best of luck Abby. I will be following your progress along with Jesica's and sweating nickles when it gets rough out there and relaxing when it's smoother.
    With Best wishes from Hervey Bay, Australia

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  25. Abby you are one amazing woman. When do you hope to be at the Horn and from The cape of Good Hope what will be your route. Do you intend to stay in the southern ocean after that even though it will be the winter season down there, or will you stay in the roaring 40s until past Australia?

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  26. My family is following you on your adventure. Funny you talk about it being hot as we have just had back to back blizzards here on the East Coast (of USA). While we dig out, you sail on, and we will keep you in our prayers. Good luck.

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  27. Abby I am thinking of you and hope the best. Be safe and take a cool break at the equador. We all love hearing from you.

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  28. Hi Abby;
    So glad to see you missed the worst of the blow; 35Kn is good enough and should have given you a decent speed - that shows up on the trip progress. When you hit the doldrums, fish @ night, it's cooler and there are fewer predator fish around. Calamari is not such a bad bet but some nice solid fish like yellow tail would make great sashimi; I hope you have some wasabe in your stores.

    Jesse says her sleep is good if she only takes power naps as she can fit them in. The sea and weather have no schedule it seems. It's good to hear that all the repairs an upgrades are working.

    As always stay clipped on outdoors and alert/safe. Murphy's Law is still alive n well. lots of love & hugs from John and Louise...and many blessings too.

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  29. Good job Abby!! Now as far as fish go--are you and Zac is a contest to see who catches the most fish? Now let me see--- would catching more than two or three win that contest? I think that Zac holds the record for the fewest fish caught by a solo circumnavigator.
    You doing great. Carry on sailor.

    Rusty

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  30. Abby, One of the things I used to do when the temperatures got relatively unreasonable is to flood the cockpit. I would plug the scuppers with rags and bucket sea water into the floor space. Keeping your feet in cooler water seemed to help a bunch.
    You are alone out there, but not in thought. Good going.

    Peter Mercer Canada

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  31. Hi Abby, I am a U S Coast Guard Auxiliarist in Ventura County and I have been following your travels form the beginning. I am keeping my shipmates up-to-date on your trip through weekly Coast Guard radio nets. These VHF radio broadcasts are an importent part of our Coast Guard experience and now you are going to be part of it.
    We all love the sea and your trip is very exciting to us. We wish you well and we will be looking forward to hearing more about your trip.
    God Speed

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  32. Hi Abby,
    When you run the engine to to charge the batteries can you make water at the same time?
    Do you have a light air sail and pole?
    You are doing great!
    Clip on and sleep, buy not necessarily at the same time.
    Michael
    San Diego

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  33. Hey Captain Abbey, Nice to hear US Coast Guard is following your trip.thks.t.glen Wish we could share sailing stories but all I can do for now is watch yours and dream. sandi

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  34. Hi Abby, I am away from my computer so I am sending this message from my iPhone. I am on a little vacation with my kids, we are spending a few days in the snow but I wanted you to know that my prayers and thoughts are with you. I hope the fishing will get better for you, I would like to know how you are going to cook the fish. You be careful! Your friend Gail from Ventura

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  35. @Bob from Seattle:

    Little saucers that go around the boat's dock lines to keep spiders out?!? Huh? Think about it. LOL

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  36. Hi Abby
    I hope you didnt take on board any stray spiders or other vermin when docked in Cabo. Spiders yuck my worse night mare. Good luck and good sailing
    Evie from Bendigo

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  37. To Anonymous 9:05 PM
    There are probably newer versions, but pests have been a problem for boats at port as long as there have been boats. If you own a boat, you may have been lucky. LOL

    U.S. Pat. No. 1,850,763, March 1932, Morley, discloses a mite trap with a disc plate 16 having a passageway 14 leading to the interior of a receptacle 10.

    U.S. Pat. No. 2,233,832, March 1941, Byrd, discloses an insect guard with a coating 5 squeezed firmly against the mounting pipe so as to effect a tight seal.

    U.S. Pat. No. 2,617,378, November 1952, Osol, shows a self-adjusting and locking rat guard for mooring lines with hub portions 4 and 5 for snugly surrounding the line 1.

    etc....etc.
    Thomas Peters

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  38. Hello Abby,

    What an adventure! I'm nearly sixty and hoping to follow in your footsteps one day. You and Jessica are an inspiration. Stay watchful and careful and come home safely.

    God bless,
    David Crossman

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  39. Also Abby as you're getting into hot weather which means sweating, you can mix a percentage of seawater with your fresh water for drinking. It's the same as taking salt tablets like I did on hot summer afternoons in the oven-baked San Joaquin valley when I was a kid. When my parents told me about hell, I had no problem understanding it. Actually this info comes from Thor Heyerdahl's Kon-Tiki trip in 1947. They mixed up to 40% seawater with no ill effects. But if I was you, I'd double check with Dad first. I'd hate to give you second hand advise and have you pass out or go into convulsions or something.

    Cheers, back to the Olympics.

    p.s. Found any little spiders yet? Hope they don't decide Wild Eyes is a great place to start a family.

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  40. Hi,
    Good to hear from you especially confirmation that you are doing well. I like your plan to stay away from the SA coast - makes sense.
    To keep occupied try this BBC brain test at - http://www.bbc.co.uk/science/humanbody/sex/index_cookie.shtml/
    Take care and Happy Valentine day from me, my wife Sandipta and daughter Khushi.
    Regards,
    Subir.

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  41. Hello Abby! Thank you for the news. A good wind is the best way to progress, and progressing is the best way to reach Cabo after having looped the loop. Sorry to read your cabin is hot, already. How will it be near the Equator? Maybe there are too many electric devices working, and producing warmth?

    I hope Jim's eight-legged stowaways won't bother you, or bite you!!! And most of all thant you are not arachnophobiac? I had no idea that there might be navigating spiders getting on boats, it looks crazy. And I must confess that their picture (cf Jim's link) is not very friendly.

    And don't forget to protect your skin, not only from the hoppers, but from Mr Sun above there and who would probably like to bake your blond skin. But as a sailor and a Californian, you must be well aware of that, more than landlocked Parisians, damped in a cold and grey weather today.

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  42. Awesome site you guys got here, i love the layout and the content is pretty impressive too!

    Let me introduce myself, im Editor in Chief at Ar1as Entertainment (Ar1as.com) and i was wondering if you would be interested in a link exchange. Your site and a link to it will be displayed proudly in our “PARTNERS” section.

    Please email me as soon as you find the time.

    Cheers!

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  43. Hello Abby,

    glad you missed the 50 knt winds!

    I think that little flying fish caught you!

    Hope the wind picks up for you though, that you can make good time towards the Cape!

    Enjoy every moment of your adventure, stay safe,

    Trudy, Austria/Australia

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  44. Mike from Buena ParkFebruary 13, 2010 at 4:14 AM

    Mike from Buena Park Ca. says Hi Abby I never do blogs but couldn't pass up this opportunity to say how proud I am of you as a dad. I can't imagine sailing around the world alone but I truly am enjoying your blogs everyday and seeing your progress on the map.
    You are in our prayers and all 8 of us in the family are watching everyday. Know this that God is as close as your nearest breath so you are never alone. Have fun and know that you are seeing and experiencing things that a lot of us will never know. We are living life thru your "Wild Eyes" Take care Mike

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  45. Hi Abby,

    Once your adventure is over do you plan on touring and speaking? If so, I would be very interested in having you speak at one of our events. I produce consumer trade shows revolving around boating and the outdoors. Having you come speak at one of our youth oriented events would be fantastic! Here is a link to our site highlighting the shows we produce. www.indysportshow.com

    I look forward to waking each day going to my computer and seeing what the day has brought you!!

    Best wishes!

    Kevin

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  46. Thanks for your update. Glad that all is going well. Please, get some sleep. DAILY WORD.COM for prayers. God Bless!

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  47. Hi Abby,

    It sounds that you have a great time out there, and I'm pleased to hear that you managed to avoid the 50 knots. Good luck with the fishing and sail on safe brave girl.
    Regards,
    Ingrid, Tyreso, Sweden

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  48. Abby you are doing what no 16 year old girl has ever done.I believe all classrooms in America should be following your trip.In my opinion this is a far greater feat than the Charles Lindburg flight.I'm an ex commercial fisherman and I can apppreciate what your doing.When you complete this trip you will be America's National Hero.
    Abby be carefull and I will be praying for your success.
    God Bless.
    Libby Di Bernardo
    San Pedro,Ca

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  49. Hi Babsy,
    keep up them dodgers,
    Jony the Pony

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  50. oh oh.

    spiders on board?

    this is supposed to be a single-handed circumnavigation, not an octuple-handed one. :-)

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  51. Ur fish isn't impressive. All torn and broken like old bicycle. Why do u care about other fish?

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  52. Abby,
    I've been on business in China and Japan for the last 10 days. In Japan now and found the time in my hotel room on the 31st. floor over looking a bay of sailboats in Yokahama. I thought of you:)
    All I can say is, Keep up the good work, you're doing a great job!

    Sean (MDR)

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  53. I love what you are doing ... You are a stud ... keep sailing!!!!

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  54. Hi Captain Abby, I'm glad to hear that your
    on your way to Cape Horn.Those rouge waves can be a little unsettling. Be Safe! Stay Cool! Godspeed!

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  55. Just stumbled across your blog, and wow! what an amazing adventure!

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  56. @ Pete from Perth

    "Mentioning Jesse"... you did!!!

    Why wouldn't we! They are BOTH trying to "become the youngest to sail solo, unassisted, non-stop around the planet.

    A lot of people (especially Americans) will not have heard of Jessica Watson's bid. Jesse has regularly mentioned Abby, as has the Aussie media. The USA media, it appears, could not care less about Jesse!

    I did find an exception:

    http://espn.go.com/espnradio/player?rd=1#/podcenter/?id=4522312&callsign=ESPNRADIO&autoplay=1

    This link seems broken:

    http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=4500943

    This will get you there:

    http://search.espn.go.com/otl-jessica-watson/

    How did YOU find out about Abby Sunderland?

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  57. Abby I have 2 daughters 21 and 18 and I am praying for your great adventure "May the Lord keep you in his tender hand always" and Give you smooth seas! Your a great person!
    From a father who can't even swim!
    I will try to check on your progress and as I say to my daughters- be careful! ag

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  58. Hey Abby,....How's the charging system working? Are the alternator belts staying tight? Does the extra fuel weight change the handling of Wild Eyes? Do you have a water ballest system where you can transfer water from one side of the boat to the other? How well does the interior fan work for cooling the cabin? Did you get some type of solar shower installed when at Cabo?

    I think you'll be lucky if you catch even one fish because this is an El Nino year. El Nino, "the boy" refers to "Christ child" because it starts around Christmas time. The ancient Peruvians noticed when the coastal waters warmed about every fifth year, the fishing was poor. The fish simply swam deeper to find cooler water. But really Abby, it's hard to picture you landing a dorodo or a yellowtail. It's been 45 years, but I still have a vivid memory of a yellowtail's tail slapping the deck of the boat. What power in that tail! You better pass on that one. Maybe hope for a small little tuna.

    Cheers, keep up them dodgers!

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  59. Hey girl, I just started up with following your adventure, and it sounds incredible! You're in my thoughts and prayers! Can't wait to read more!
    -Kara, Fairfax, VA

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  60. Wind is good.... Waves are fun.. though I am not sure I would like too many breaking over my boat. I get a little ansy when they break over my bow.. ( I don't use a dodger so I get hosed...)

    I don't suppose you thought to bring a bug bomb along for the trip... little spiders are fine in one's or two's... but infestations totally suck because YOU are the food source them as there are not a lot of spiders that eat little flying fish...

    Happy Valentines day to you and Wild Eyes...

    Sail Safe.. Post Often.. Have Fun..

    Richard Rumble
    Dana Point, CA

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  61. You are a true heroine.

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  62. Little one If it's clear sail the boat! Save fuel, run the boat and save your fuel for big storms!

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  63. Great to see good progress being made on the map. one problem I have is not knowing the dates related to "Day 22". WOuld be good if the actual date could be given in the legend at the side! Even better if the most recent was listed at the top - otherwise in a couple of months it will take an hour to scroll down the the latest entry.

    DD (UK)

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  64. Enjoy the wrarmth while you can -it is going to get a lot colder real quick once you get a couple weeks south of the equator. -- and ask your shore team to include Lat/Long locations in your position reports. You logging into the Pacific Mariners Net?

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  65. Oh yes Babsy!
    frolicking with them spiders, are you?
    When you run out of food, you could make Kentucky Fried Spider.
    What about them squiddies?
    Keep up them dodgers!
    Jony the pony

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  66. Bugs get more active as they get warmer...hope your's don't!

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  67. Happy Valentine's Day , Abby...uh early..lol
    I don't know what to say that so many other people haven't said already!!!
    I do pray for you!!..And the video of your dad praying well that was awesome!!!..I shouted from the "Amen Corner" too.
    I am a mother of a 15 year old who I , let go and let him follow God's plan for him by going on his first missions trip to Baja, Mexico. I trust God completely. But that part in a mom that is so protective and wants to make sure their child is safe at all times..was struggling with this. So I can only imagine what you mom felt when your brother wanted to do this..now you. So tell your mom...from one mom to another..i am thinking and praying for her too. I look forward to reading your blogs. And checking the map to see where you are. And I hope you didn't get those little creepy crawlers..ewww..lol Can't wait to see your video!!!! Lots of Love from Ohio and God Bless you Sista!!!
    Crystal

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  68. Hello Abby,

    happy Valentine's Day as you speed along safely and cheerfully!

    Trudy, Austria/Australia

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  69. Abby, I pray all your days will be filled with awe and peace be with you through out your journey.

    Kalamazoo MI

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  70. Hi Abby,

    I honestly don't recall where exactly I first saw the story about your around-the-world attempt (possibly ESPN?), but you definitely have me hooked now! It's so increible you are undertaking this adventure, there are few people in the world like yourself. As a senior meteorology student at the University of Michigan, I will continue to track your progress. Best of luck and our prayers are with you!

    Alex

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  71. Would you be able to post your coordinates for us each day? Also do you have a thermometer on board, and if so, could you please tell us the temperature each day? And please let us know what you brought along to do in your leisure time (besides your school books;)). Thank you and best of luck to you! From a CA mom and
    CO daughter

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  72. Hi Abby and fellow blogers,
    I'm wondering if the lack of fish could be due to our global over fishing. I remember being able to catch a fish every time I went out and just towing a small piece of white rag with a hook in it would get a result.
    On another note I hope I havn't offended anyone making referance to what I sometimes feel is a competition of youngest to sail around the world. Having family in media I worry about you being eaten up by the feeding frenzy of people trying to capitalise off your journey's and know how much my daughter hates being compared to anyone. (Sorry Queenslander).
    When I sent an email to my sister in Baltimore telling her of jessica she sent me your site and am now following you both because I am totaly in awe of what your doing.
    Respectfully,
    Pete from Perth

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  73. Abby, I am proud of you and am praying that you have a safe journey and that you can circumnavigate the globe in the amount of time you had hoped for.
    William Welch

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  74. Rusty-- it's okay if Abby doesn't catch anything. God's creatures aren't just people.

    Libby D. Bernardo-- Yes there is another 16 year old doing this, and she is already more than halfway around.
    Check it out:
    http://youngestround.blogspot.com/

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  75. Abby, can you tell everyone how "Wild Eyes" was named? Your Dad told me the story, and I think everyone would love to hear it. Godspeed!

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  76. Hi Cap'n Abby,

    Good to hear that things are going well with you. Here's hoping you get through the doldrums in short order.

    Happy Valentine's Day.....enjoy a some chocolate from your stash :)

    Brian & Phill
    Vancouver, Canada

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  77. Hi Abby
    Happy Valentine's day. Hope you catch something for supper on Sunday. I am from Barbados and Flying fish is part of our national dish. Actually most of the leeward Islands in the Caribbean eat flying fish. Have a go at it but watch out for the bones
    Sherna

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  78. Nice Post Abby!
    Happy Valentine's day! :)

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  79. HELLO ABBY, I haven't written to you since you set sail from Cabo. So glad all is going well now for you. Wondered if you have anything special for yourself for Valentine Day! Must admit my husband and I have some of those yummy small Easter Eggs with cream caramel inside. That was our treat today, after spending all day in the garden. Beautiful day here in Picton, especially in the shade.

    Will continue to follow you through out your trip and wish you a safe one.

    Until next time.

    Lynne (Picton, NZ)

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  80. Hi Abby, Hope everything is well with you. I check in read your blog and saw that there was not one for the 13th. I will be looking forward to your next one, I am sure you have just been too busy. I worry when you don't have a blog posted. My prayer are always with you. Your friend Gail / Ventura

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  81. Hi Abby,

    Happy Valentine's Day. I'm sure that all your fans are sending big hugs your way.

    You're doing fanstically well Abby. Go at your own pace my dear, keep safe and just enjoy the journey.

    I'm speaking for myself here. Please know Abby that if I do mention Jesse Watson, I'm not comparing you to her. I know that you both have your own journey with it's own set of challenges. I think that you are two inspirational young woman and as I have mentioned before you even set sail, you both have a wonderful sense of sportsmanship and I love it how both of you have been in touch and wished each other well. Even your Mums have been in touch so I think everyone shouldn't feel bad if we do mention yourself on Jesse's blog site or Jesse on your blog site. I know I just want you to both safely reach home to your loving families.

    Take care my dear and thanks for your blogs. They make my day.

    Warmest wishes from Jan Pace (Auckland, New Zealand)

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  82. Hi Captain Sunderland; Happy Valentines Day Abby!
    Alfred
    Vancouver, Canada

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  83. Hi Abby,

    Happy Valentine's Day! I hope you'll find something extra in your food bag today.
    Safe sailing.
    Regards,
    Ingrid, Tyreso, Sweden

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  84. Hi Abby,

    Glad you're back on the water and hope you don't encounter anything too heavy out there. As far as the equator heat goes; I guess you know to drink plenty of water and use sunscreen a lot. Enjoy every aspect of your wonderful journey.
    Looking forward to a video.
    Take care.

    Sunshine Coast, Qld. Aus.

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  85. Hi Babsy,
    keep up them dodgers!
    Jony the Pony

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  86. Hi Abby,
    Doldrums!!!
    'Wild eyes' shouldn't have too many problems drifting. Keep pumping that sail.
    Don't forget to Hang On!!!!
    ☺☺☺ Hoo Roo ☺☺☺

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  87. So, if you catch a flying fish while it is airborne, is it still fishing or does it become fish hunting? Oh! Wait!! I know, It becomes Fly Fishing!! The whole flying squid thing strikes me as odd, however, seems folks around here are familiar with them. I picture them like some Jules Verne created missile being launched from the Nautilus.

    The ocean has more than a few submarines operating from navies all round the world. Imagine sailing along, minding your business somewhere way out in the blue, only to look up and have a periscope looking at you.

    Actually, I have a real question for you sailors what have made long trips under wind power. Is Abby and Wild Eyes likely to encounter Saint Elmo’s Fire in her rigging at some point? I don’t know much about the phenomena, only its caused by a build up of static electricity in the air. Thoughts?

    ~
    I can see a new horizon
    Underneath the blazin' sky
    I'll be where the eagle's
    Flyin' higher and higher
    Gonna be your man in motion
    All I need is a pair of wheels
    Take me where my future's lyin'
    St. Elmo's Fire
    ~
    I can climb the highest mountain
    Cross the wildest sea
    I can feel St. Elmo's Fire burnin' in me
    Burnin' in me

    Just once in her life
    A girl has her time
    And my time is now
    And I'm comin' alive
    ~

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  88. 02-14-10 @ 08:59
    Hi Abby,
    Are you looking for some excitement, you almost sounded a little disappointed that you didn’t get 50 knot wind..lol..I don’t know about you girls, Jessica was always looking for a little excitement, even some of the ‘bumpy’ stuff. But I guess that’s what makes it all the more interesting, I seem to understand that, but I (at my age) would be more of a Sunday afternoon, laid back sailor…if I ever get there. LOL….

    It would have been nice if you could have taken that flying fish home with you and put it into fish tank, (if you have one) but would it survive, one inch long and it landed on your boat, so it’s a pretty strong fish. I don’t think your Mom would have appreciated that.

    I imagine that things are going well for you, and I hope they continue to do so. How is the crew doing, you never mention them ????? Curious minds want to know, ME.
    Take care of yourself and as Carol from Florida says, practice safe sailing!!!!
    May God hold you in the palm of His hand and may the Angels keep your sails full, and I, I will be praying for you.
    Michael (75) from Kingwood, WV

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  89. Good Morning Captain,

    A very HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY to you Abby.

    Thinking of you,
    john
    Bay of Quinte, Lake Ontario, Canada/
    1 day left in Bucerias, Nayarit, Mexico

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  90. 02-14-10 @ 09:09
    Hi Abby,
    Please accept my most humble apologies, I wanted to wish you and your Mom a very, very Happy Valentines Day, so there you are. That was supposed to be on the post before this one. Sorry about that, it comes with age, yeah, yeah, I know that was weak lol……
    Take good care of yourself and don’t eat to much chocolate today.
    May God hold you in the palm of His hand and may the Angels keep your sails full, and I, I will be praying for you.
    Michael (75) from Kingwood, WV

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  91. Hello Abby, Happy Valentines Day! Hope it cools down for you and that you are able to get distance today..Safe sailing.
    NJ Mom

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  92. Hi Abby
    Happy Valentines Day

    Best wishes
    John N

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  93. I hope you are having a blissful day at sea on this holiday. Here's hoping you will enjoy some chocolate, or the 'sweet' of your choice today. You know ....'sweets for the sweet'....and do you realize, you are rapidly becoming everybody's 'sweetheart'!!!

    Have a Happy Valentine's Day!

    You are doing so well and making us all proud! Keep up your good work!

    GO GIRL
    Hugs and prayers,
    Janell in Oklahoma, USA

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  94. ABBY,I dont have much to say exept good luch and sail safe.
    Watching you and Jesse sail the wife and i are getting a sail boat now we are 51 and we are going to have fun sailing maybe one day we will meet you on the water,,,have fun lil one keep safe and have fun,your friends from North Carolina Robert,Ellen,Alison,Autumn God Bless you and Wild Eyes

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  95. Hi Abby!
    Seems that your boat is now having good speed. The distance since Cabo SL seems to be 1037 nm in 7 days, that is 148 per day until Saturday. Looks really good.

    It seems you would reach the Equator on Monday February 22. (And Cape Horn on roughly March 20).

    Remember to perform the correct ceremony with a full bucket of salt water, with the video camera filming it!

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  96. Hi Abby...following you daily as you go and wishing you a safe journey. May God watch over you...Charlie

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  97. Whoo hoo! Larry Ellison and Oracle have won the Americas Cup!! After many years of being held in various countries around the world (including land-locked Switzerland), Americas Cup will be returning to San Francisco, USA.

    Do you aspire to racing, Abby?

    Brian & Phill
    Vancouver, Canada

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  98. Hello and happy Valentine's Day

    Any update in Abby's possition today?

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  99. Oops, I mean Equator passage on Thursday 18th. I had wrong waypoint position in my Excel spreadsheet, the one I previously guessed, not adjusted to your real course. According to passageweather, there are no doldrums until near the Equator, if going straight south.

    Anyway, King Neptune is waiting!

    Ben Larsson, Sweden

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  100. Dearest Captain Abby: We are praying for you to have a wonderful journey. May God speed and for you to have the time of your very young life!!! As a mom of an 18 year old on her own at college I worry about her being alone and pray for her to be safe. I will also pray for you to have a safe journey and you are in the right hand of God. Have a great time. Catch those flying fish and throw them in a pan for lunch :) I don't usually write to anyone I don't know but I am following your journey as I think you are an AWESOME woman. Take care, wear your lifevest at all times and feel free to write back. JCB9160@aol.com Sincerely, Carol Barton Barbour, Sacramento, CA

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  101. Hey Captain Abbey, Late VD cheer to you.Doldrums can be fun read a book, write to a friend, practice all those knots perhaps you promised one self to learn,or just maybe chillout to some of your favorite tunes. Back in the day my girlfiends would say get a tan get a man lol. know you are 16 but come on it's life lol Sorry DAD. Sandi in _Pa ,chesapeake

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  102. Hi, thank you very much. good job.

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