Wednesday, February 10, 2010

Rain and More Squid

There hasn't been a lot of excitement out here since my leaving Cabo san Lucas. The first few days where nice and sunny, but then it started to rain and its been pouring ever since. I've had a lot of squally conditions. Nothing too big or bad, but enough to keep me from getting much sleep at night with the frequent sail changes.

There is a low pressure system not far to the south of me that I have been trying to avoid by passing it to the west. I found out this morning that there's another boat about 300 miles ahead of me that is hove to getting smashed with 50 knots. There's a possibility I could get into it some time tonight. I might not, but just in case I went over the boat to make sure everything is ready, so now I've just got to wait.

I've had a few more squid that have decided to join me on my trip recently which I thought was a bit weird as I hadn't seen any the last few days before getting to Cabo. Other than the occasional squid I haven't had a whole lot of interesting wild life. I did see dolphins pretty often while I was close to Marina del Rey and I did see a few whales far off the day I pulled into Cabo but that's about it for wild life.

So far today I've had pretty steady, light wind, so I was finally able to catch up on my sleep. Speaking of sleep, I am going to go try to get some...

Abby

130 comments:

  1. Hi Abby,

    Fresh calamari battered in bread crumbs, what more could you ask for, dinner alfresco.
    The winds have been good to you so far, and being pre-warned about the weather ahead of you, if you know the direction the low is moving, the option of reducing sail to slow Wild Eye's s.o.g. it could pass without to much problem.
    We can hear your ZZZZZZZZZ's from here, so keep charging 'your' batteries to be able to handle the sail changes you speak of.
    I plotted a way point from your last position (18) for Cape Horn and notice you are still sailing SW this is going to be a big ark out wide, you are traveling in a better groove this time out though and seem happier in yourself.

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

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  2. Be safe. Glad to hear you are doing well.

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  3. Abby,

    Thanks for the update.

    As always, All the Best!!

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  4. G'Day Abby,
    Good to see you on your way again - some nice 'phots to go with your departure and blog from your Dad.
    a picture is worth a thousand words and look forward to many more when you get to understand all your camera workings.

    Keep the blogs coming when you can; many people out here following both you and Jesse.

    Meantime ,
    Sail safe,
    and Enjoy!!

    Poppa Bear,
    CAIRNS QLD

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  5. Nice post Abby,

    We certainly hope you avoid the 50knot winds and that it dies down a little. Those squid are pesky little things, so make sure you find them all otherwise they'll start to smell in a corner somewhere.

    Try to get some rest while you can,

    All the best.

    The McGraths, Nowra NSW Australia

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  6. One NICE thing about not-a-lot-of-excitement is that it means things are going smoothly and well!!

    Keep on your toes with that bad weather ahead and to the South, OK?

    I'm very envious of you and your adventure - Fair winds and a following sea, Captain!

    Orion

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  7. Fair winds! I hope you don´t get to see 50knts, yet. That should wait till the Southern Ocean or better avoided at all.

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  8. Hey Abby - Just recently found out what you are doing. I think it's awesome! My best to you! I will keep you in my prayers!

    That's funny about the squid visitors. How big are they?

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  9. Hi Abby - It is great hearing from you! THX for your interesting post. Here's hoping you will pass beyond the rough weather but it's good that you are well prepared just in case. You spent so much time learning and preparing for this trip; now you are underway, but....you will find that you will still be learning and preparing for the next event all along the way. Preparation pays huge rewards!

    Stay safe, precious one.
    GO GIRL
    Janell in Oklahoma, USA

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  10. Hi Abby, Thanks for the update, I always enjoy reading your blogs. I just wanted to say that my prayers and thoughts are with you and I will be looking forward to reading your next update. Take care. Gail from Ventura

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  11. Hi Abby,
    Good to hear things are going well.
    Make sleep a priority.
    Michael
    San Diego

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  12. stay safe Abby! try and get some rest when you can. drink lots of water and don't forget to eat.
    God Bless,
    LC

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  13. Hi Babsy,
    frolicking with them skwiddies, OK!
    Try to fry one for lunch or so.
    Jessica's blog is still crippled...
    Hope they get it fixed soon.
    keep up them dodgers,
    Jony the Pony

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  14. 02-11-10 @ 02:23
    Hi Abby,
    Thanks for the up-date, good to hear from you.
    Well it looks like everything is running pretty smooth for you so far. But what you're heading into doesn't sound so good. You’ll handle it, but be cautious and don’t take any unnecessary chances. Glad to see that you've gotten yourself prepared for the inevitable.
    That's interesting that you've seen whales already, Jessica never mentioned seeing any whales but she did see her share of dolphins.
    I hope all the work has paid off for you.
    Well Abby, make sure you get your rest when you can, eat well and drink plenty of water. Take good care of yourself and good luck to you.
    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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  15. Best wishes Abby! Squid are quite tasty. Cut cross-wise and squeeze some lemon all over, toss a couple of times. Should be ready in about an hour. At least until you are able to catch something tastier with your fishing gear! :)

    Jeffrey
    Seattle, WA

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  16. Abby Sunderland, sleeping again. You are lazy. That's why everyone calls you Lazy Abby.

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  17. Fifty knots? Keep that harness on girl!

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  18. Hi Abby
    we feel starved for your sailing input.
    thanks for the up date.
    Jessica seems to have hit the doldrums while heading for Cape of Good Hope.
    hope the 50k Low misses you.
    Keep safe and post when you can.
    Thanks, again
    Bruce Stanley/Sydney Australia

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  19. Brace your self Abby and stay safe

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  20. Hey Abby,
    Good to hear from you. I was thinking about the squid lately, as I knew a lot of fisherman had mad a lot of comment in the news while you were in Cabos.
    I don't like the sound of that storm about you, but you sound ready for it. Just hang on girl, your doing great.
    Blessing and good luck to you and wild eyes. What a neat name. ha.
    Your fan from Santa Clarita, Ca.

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  21. Hello Abby,

    no excitement is good!

    glad, that you are on your way and that you could also catch up on some sleep.
    Avoid the 50 knot winds if you can!

    Safe sailing,

    Trudy, Austria/Australia

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  22. You are tracing a very straight route on the charts, Abby. It looks almost unreal! Neither Jessica saw much of wildlife in the first weeks. The ocean dwellers must first get accustomed to these wild eyes watching them!
    Have good winds and progress... You are right taking some sleep while you can; there will be more agitated times too. Take care and don't let yourself bored, the voyage is too young for falling in boredom already.

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  23. Kath, Qld, AustraliaFebruary 11, 2010 at 2:57 AM

    Hi Abby,
    wishing you all the best,
    stay safe. X.

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  24. Gidday Abby
    Great to hear from you even if it is a bit deary. We land lubbas still need our fix of Abby and Jessica. Maybe on the quiet times you could go into more detail of some of the things you do on Wild Eyes to keep you occupied. It wont be long before you are crossing the Equator then On your way to Cape Horn.
    Dont forget to strap yourself in and Im sure you'll make it through the night with out too many hassles
    Safe Sailing

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  25. how long before we get some video footage please

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  26. Laura O'Connell, Gold Coast AustraliaFebruary 11, 2010 at 3:21 AM

    Hi Abby, Enjoy the quiet times when you can. There will be plenty of rough times ahead of you. You are wise checking everything to make sure it's ready for rough weather.
    Sleep well and remember, God is with you.

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  27. Abby,

    How well does an Open 40 like Wild Eyes hove to? Would you need to hove to in a gale or just reduce sail?

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  28. I thought I might add some nautical terms for those out there following Miss Abby who don’t understand “Sailor Speech.” I’ve seen some schools and younger kids, and even older folks who admit to having no sailing experience. I hope this helps:

    Aboard: 1) A piece of construction lumber. 2) What one becomes when one is a-uninterested.

    Amidships: Condition of being surrounded by boats.

    Backstay: Last thing to grab as you’re falling overboard.

    Beating to Windward: Method of flogging crew to increase upwind performance when racing.

    Berth: Little newborn addition to the crew.

    Boom: Called for the sound that's made when it hits crew in the head on its way across the boat. For slow crew, it's called `boom, boom.'

    Bow: Gesture from the helmsman as he crosses the finish line first.

    Bunk: Small uncomfortable area for wet sailors to attempt sleep.

    Comfort: A term not used in conjunction with racing yachts.

    Dock: Where you take a sick boat.

    Gybe: Common way to get unruly guests off your boat.

    Head Up: Leaving the boat toilet seat up. When boat skipper is female, leaving the head up is a serious offense.

    Heave-Ho: What you do when you’ve eaten too much.

    Heave To: Second person to get sick.

    Mast: Religious ritual used before setting sail.

    Mizzen: Object you can’t find.

    Shipshape: Boat is said to be shipshape when every object that is likely to contribute to the easy handling of the vessel or the comfort of the crew has been put in a place from which it cannot be retrieved in less than 30 minutes.

    ::Selections from…Peter W. Damisch: HUMOROUS SAILING DEFINITIONS::

    There you are. I hope this helps all you aspiring sailors.

    Captain Abby, good to hear you are making good time once again.

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  29. Hi Abby
    Thanks for the update. I hope both wind and wave stays favourable for you.
    Best wishes
    John N

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  30. Abby,

    Here's hoping you got some rest last night and a prayer as well that the weather doesn't turn rough!

    jeff

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  31. Hi Abby,

    Well, congratulations to you and your fantastic team for great effort in Cabo.

    All the best for your trip - I have been following Jessica's progress so now I have two voyagers to watch out for.

    Fair winds and following seas.

    Colin Ballard,
    Australia

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  32. Hi Abby,
    it's good to hear from you today. I check on you everyday and look forward to you. If you're heading for 50kts, Id say sleeping is just the thing rift now. Goof sailing, catch you next time. fair winds...
    IndyMike

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  33. Hi Babsy,
    this is also for Jess.
    Keep up them dodgers and fry them squiddies,
    Jony the Pony

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  34. I am praying for your safe journey Abby. May God manifest his presence to you today!

    "Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand."
    Isaiah 41:10

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  35. Squid, dolphins and whales sound pretty exciting to me. Get some shut-eye when you can. Good luck with your navigation.

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  36. The fact that you had to stop in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, does this mean you have failed in your quest to become the youngest person to circumnavigate the globe solo and unassisted?

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  37. Glad you made it back out! Good luck with that storm. It's been fun to follow your journey so far. Keep up the good work!

    Rob, SC

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  38. May your weather at sea always be fair and friendly. Here is wishing you full-steam ahead with gentle winds in your sails.

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  39. You are an amazingly brave person! I am 39 years old and would be so scared to be doing what you are doing...and you are only 16! Wow!

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  40. Hi Abby
    Local Venturan and fellow sailor here following your adventure. I admire your strength, courage and determination to take on this journey. Everyday when I look at your blog I say a little prayer for safe travels. I enjoy reading about your daily tasks and the elements you are encountering along your journey. It would be great if you gave your location when you make a post. Stay strong and get some sleep!

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  41. Hi Abby
    You might not appreciate the creatures of the sea at the moment but they are wonderful travelling companions when you have no one else.
    You were given a tremendous gift with seeing a whale as there are so few of these magnificent creatures left, wow.
    Good luck with the approaching storm.
    Evie from bendigo

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  42. HI Abby,
    My Mom and I are following your trip. It's pretty interesting. I hope you get some rest and that you stay safe.

    Joseph A.,
    4th grader at The DaVinci Academy
    Colorado Springs, CO.

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  43. Good luck Abby, I think what you are doing is amazing. Sorry you aren't getting much action...maybe you could play I Spy with yourself :) I look forward to reading more of your adventures!

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  44. Can you take a picture of a squid? My sister is obsessed with squids.

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  45. My boat is under 2 ft of snow here in Pennsylvania. Wish I was out sailing. Good luck Abby.

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  46. Abby, I look forward to your posts. Your dad's posts were interesting, as I am a parent and one of the hardest thing is letting your child go on adventures, small or tremendously large like yours.

    God's speed and good sailing, to you.

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  47. Hello Abby, Stay safe and hope the sun starts to shine to warm you up a bit..
    Happy sails, NJ Mom

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  48. Way to go Abby!!!
    Godspeed

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  49. Thanks for the update, Abby! Wishing you all the best in the waters ahead!

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  50. Rest up girl!... As u know we all loved your Dad's post... btw next week in Cali, the weather is suppose to be great!. sun, warmth.... hope the same for you!. Stay safe, I'm keepin' my eye out for ya...:-)

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  51. A little bit of wind and rain is good for the soul... ( spoken from the warmth and comfort of my office chair ) and it may give you the opportunity to really get a feel for how Wild Eyes handles the heavy weather. I am sure that you personally have done heavy weather before... and since Wild Eyes has also on her last cirmcumnavagation trip, its only the two of you getting to know how the other deals with the big wind and big waves. Once thats out of the way and old hat the rest of the voyage will be just gettin on with gettin on. Sleep.. Rest..

    Sail Safe... Post Often and Have FUN...

    Richard Rumble
    Dana Point, ca

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  52. Hi, Abby. Very glad that you continued to tour around the world. Associated to you and excellent wind forecast. Perhaps squid very lonely and they decided to make you company)))

    Natasha,

    Russia, Yekaterinburg.

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  53. Good Morning Abby,
    Quick question about the squid. What are you doing with them? Are you adding them to your diet in some way, or tossing them? Hope you miss or missed the big blow. God's speed and blessings for you.
    Norm Strasser :-)

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  54. Bonjour Abby & Wild Eyes,

    Bonne route!

    Take care, be safe.

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  55. Hi Babsy,
    glad to see that the comments are up and working.
    Jessica's people are still squashing them computer buggies.
    So... fry them skwiddies and keep up them dodgers!
    Jony the Pony

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  56. Another good luck from Camano Island, north of Seattle

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  57. Old Canadian navy vet here , know the oceans , am proud of your guts for a young lady . Ishall follow your trip and get more involved soon, new computer and having troubles . Jimmy Montreal Canada

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  58. Your Oklahoma Well-WisherFebruary 11, 2010 at 9:13 AM

    Great update, Abby! I very much look forward to the next update in your adventure. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers... Peace, Your Oklahoma Well-Wisher

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  59. Just read all your comments and know you are so loved...but i just have one question..how gross are the squids? Do they look wierd? also, if you need to sleep, just try opening one of your school books..you will fall asleep asap...it always worked for me..best Lori G.

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  60. hi..hope you and the squids are having a good run of it...try to get some sleep..opening a school book usually puts one right to sleep..really proud of you..from me and the dogs micky and shizu and cats tatty and groucho...keep up the great work! love to you

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  61. So good to hear from you, Abby. We all eagerly await your every word from Wild Eyes. Wishing you sunshine and sleep in between the hard work, wind, waves and serious focus. Your father's testimony grabbed our hearts. Yours, too, I'm sure. Thanks, Abby...God bless you and Wild Eyes as you continue on your way as you fulfill your dream.

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  62. Hey Captain Abbey, If squid does not sound appetizing to you-just use it for bait-catch sum yellowtails, grouper,yummy. Hope you missed 50knts. If not let use know how wild eyes handles these conditions.Sandi in PA under 23 inches of snow-can't find the dock

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  63. Squid, sounds like some good company!

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  64. Big Thanks for all the new photos and Videos.

    Thanks to Laurence for the Prayer!!!

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  65. can someone explain the weather Abby is seeing 300 miles south of her that she reports to be 50knts?? I'm looking at passage weather.com and don't see that - it's an easy looking mix of 10-20-30 knot winds from what I see... what am I missing on passage weather?
    thanks Jen.

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  66. this is to Jony the Pony: what's with the 'keep up them dodgers'??? and why so often?

    mark

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  67. Yo Abby girl,....
    I'm sure you are tired of calamari comments but....
    I second Brian Riley, fresh calamari battered in bread crumbs, sprinkle chopped basil leaves on top. mmmm....Did you ask Captain Chris what he does with jumping squid? A free gift from God just like manna, think twice before you toss it.
    I don't second Orion about being envious of you. Being seasick my only time at sea, I'm very staisfied watching from a distance.
    I second Kim in needing our daily fix of our ocean-maids.
    Pagoo, you could have plagiarized and noboby would have been the wiser. Just kidding and great humor.
    I second Jony the Pony. Abby IS a babsy.
    And Julia, don't hold your breath about Abby posting a pic of a squid. It ain't goin happen!

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  68. Are you doing any cooking, or just opening things that packaged? Where you able to take on any fresh fruit in Mexico? How long till you run out? Just courious...

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  69. Many people keep asking the same question like:

    "The fact that you had to stop in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, does this mean you have failed in your quest to become the youngest person to circumnavigate the globe solo and unassisted?"

    The answer is no. Abby just needs to complete her solo circumnavigation in Cabo instead of Marina Del Rey. There are rules as to what makes it a solo and unassisted (they are obvious) and what makes it a circumnavigation (a bit less obvious, one has to sail in both hemispheres plus a few more details).

    A few people are also wondering if Abby and Jessica are racing. The answer is no. They are not racing. They are just attempting to set a record at about the same time. Records can generally be attempted as part of a race or organized event or on your own schedule.

    Hope this helps.
    Bernard

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  70. Since you are stuck inside maybe you can write some more; maybe answer some more questions. Inquiring minds want to know what it's like!
    Joe

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  71. Hi Babsy,
    fry them squiddies!
    Keep up them dodgers!
    Jony the Pony

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  72. @ Any & All cross blog posters - HELP. Jessica's blog is back up but now restricted to postings by "Team Members". Can one of you with an " Account" please let her blog screeners know there are folks (like myself) that post under Anonymous only because Google requires confirmation of an account set up via a cell phone number and text receipt on that phone. Google doesn not need my cell phone number and texts are blocked (on purpose) on my phone.

    They are going to do what they are going to do - but Anonymous folks are not hiding or bad people. Just not willing to give Google more than they need to know.

    Thanks for your patience Abby bloggers. For sailors, these attempts have less to do with "who's first" than supporting both of these fine young ladies on their voyages.

    Steve in California

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  73. Cross-bloggers, you can also support Ryan Langley at http://southernoceansolo.weebly.com/dispatches.html
    Same deal but he's going East to West!
    Cici

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  74. Thanks Abby
    luv
    Richard (QLD) Aus

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  75. Abby,
    Hello from Kodiak, Alaska!
    Our class has a quote calendar and we thought you might enjoy this one from Helen Keller:

    Life is either a daring
    adventure or nothing.

    We'll keep you in our thoughts and prayers as you approach the storm. Keep your chin up! You can do it!

    Mr. J's 5th grade, Elin, Leah, Emily, Isaac, Chloe, Cassidy, Jacob, Madison, Adelheid, Jaiden, Hannah, Trent, Eric, TJ, Isabelle, Johnny, Matt, Alex, and Hayden

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  76. Why cook when you can order pizza?

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  77. Hey Jen, I've been watching passage weather too, and wondered the same thing. Maybe a squall?

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  78. Dear Abby,
    Congratulations of finally starting your voyage. Surely you have done your homework. Enjoy the voyage to the fullest, ´cause it will only last as long...- I guess until down about 35-40S it will be pretty routine - so enjoy the nice sun and the starry nights and get some ZZZZZZZs in the book.

    To commentors - not bloggers: with a bandwith of 128-264kbps it is not likely that Abby will see all if any of the comments at all. I have been concerned about all the so-called bloggers on Jessica´s blog:
    - spilling their guts about their personal trivia,
    - trying to be the first to comment,
    - patronizing Jessica by acting as adopted grandparents or aunts (although Jessica appears to have a perfectly loving family of her own),
    - imposing pressure by requesting pictures, videos or answers for all kinds of questions.

    I would think that if people had so much personal stuff they need to unload, they should do it on a blog of their own.

    We are invited to share the voyage of two capable, determined and courageous girls - however they are already out there well prepared by their own choice - so there is not much we should do to distract them from focusing fully on their tasks.

    In short: back to sailing...

    Soren (Copenhagen, Denmark)

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  79. Really getting hooked into your adventure, even though I haven't a clue as to who you are. Must be the Boy Scout in me, and some of the adventures I've done with them. Keep up the posts, really enjoying reading them! Use the squid to your advantage, whether done as bait for fishing, or for food when you are hungry. Keeps up your strength...

    Jeffery from Carmel, Indiana

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  80. Abby...I see you follow my blog too...wonderful to have you on board!
    You might have heard of my friend Pete Goss (www.petegoss.com) and his impressive nautical adventures.
    May you have fair weather and good winds!
    Cheers
    Johann

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  81. gommie- over the hill in VenturaFebruary 11, 2010 at 1:27 PM

    Hi Abby- So great to hear from you-sorry about the squid- Would you describe the kind of time you are having as 'fun'? I wonder if you long for the sound of another human voice at times. My friend insists that you have a computer. I told her I didn't think so - at least not the kind we have at home-Do you?Think of you so often and appreciate the updates,just to know you are safe-keep well and as always you are in my prayers-

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  82. be well and enjoy the ride

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  83. Abby, I have to go under annonomous, because I cant get my comments to post to you otherwise. Im sorry, But I hope you get through all the bad weather fine, and it gets nicer for you out there. I pray for you everynight, that you will be safe, and have a wonderful experience. I Love Dolphins, and I would be thrilled to see a whale. The last cruise I went on to Cozumel, we had Dolphins follow our ship. It was nice! They are soooo cute. But the squid????? Well, that on the otherhand I can do without. lol You seem so calm with all that. Its funny! Have a good night, and get some rest. Your Friend from Louisiana, Tracy

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  84. @ steve in california

    1. you don't need to create a blog, just sign up for gmail, once you have that account and are signed into it, you can post with that accout name to these blogs.

    2. i don't think there will be anymore comment postings to jessica's old blog site while they transfer all the old comments to her new site. it's set to 'team' while they do that, even if you had an account you can't post there anymore.

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  85. Hi Abby, I enjoy your posts and am with you in spirit.

    Chattanooga, Tn

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  86. I agree with Steve, I would love to keep up with Jessica too,as I am Abby.....I dont feel comfortable with giving out so much information.....
    God be with both girls
    A Greatgrandma in Oregon

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  87. Hi Captain Sunderland; First, I want to thank your dad for the excellent technical information concerning Wild Eyes. Thank you Abby for your latest post. Talking about wildlife, you didn't mention the wild young lady whose taking this wild ride around the world! Now that's WILD! All the best to you.
    Alfred
    Vancouver, Canada

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  88. Abby,
    Your trip sounds like, even though you're sounding pretty bored right now, is gonna be awesome (I'm sure you know already though). You seem to know what you're doing, so luck won't be needed but just in case - Good luck out there Abby!

    - Devin

    http://dplifeantics.blogspot.com/

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  89. Hey Abby,
    Keep up the good work. When you get done you can go for a ride in one of our Hummer limos at limobusdotnet.

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  90. Thanks for the gmail tip. I'll give it a try.
    I do have to admit that I may have jumped the gun in my concern,as the NEW blog is not yet fully functional yet (as was noted by another.

    @Questions about 50 kt winds ahead of Abby: Keep in mind that Passageweather is a compilation of various weather data and only those actually on the water, at the spot, know the real conditions.

    I've also seen descriptions of the "wind arrow" symbols used in weather presentations as indicating direction and wind "at least" the force indicated. So an area that indicates 35 knots does not mean that actual winds are not higher.

    As sailors are wont to say, "You sail in the wind you have." (ie. not the one predicted or even the one the tactician claims is over on the other side of the course)


    Steve in California

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  91. Hi Abby,

    You're just flying along down the coast. If you've got bad weather ahead, be sure to keep your tether on....in fact, it should be on ALWAYS when you're topside....better safe than sorry.

    You're doing so well. and we know you'll be able to take all the challenges in your stride.

    Meanwhile everyone in Vancouver is pumped about the 2010 Winter Olympic Games starting tomorrow.

    Stay safe,
    Brian & Phill
    Vancouver, Canada

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  92. STAY TETHERED! I'm old enough to be your grandfather so I'll sweat it out with you. Wait, no, no sweat.........enjoy. Papa Don.

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  93. A little weather ahead will spice it up a bit, you don't want it to get too boring. I don't mean to sound scary but you may have head that Jessica had some weather with 70+ winds and 4 knockdowns. I know you can handle that because both you girls are tough as nails or you wouldn't be where you are today. You should contact Jess, she is always trying out things on her galley stove. You to could trade reciepes. :) Good sailing and don't pass the hove to boat to fast. Granpa Bob in Tucson

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  94. There is no update in Abby's possition today?

    Any problem at all?

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  95. I hate being hove to in 50 knots! - but it's better than bashing i guess. Go Girl! You make me proud!
    JD -
    SV Panaseaya
    Cairns

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  96. Lynn from Thousand Oaks, CAFebruary 11, 2010 at 6:40 PM

    Hi Abby,
    I love to hear how you're doing and check several times a day. Get your sleep and you go, girl! Have fun and stay safe.

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  97. Abby,

    Keep cleaning those squid off of the boat. But if a nice Dorado or Yellowtail finds it’s way to the deck of Wild Eyes, just remember that it’s not “catch and release,” it’s “fillet and release.” Now, catch up on your sleep while the weather has mellowed out. Have fun, Abby.

    From Seattle, WA, USA
    SaltyDog

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  98. Abby,
    What do you do if things go to the worse? What is your exit strategy?

    Best of luck!

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  99. Hi Abby,
    Only 50 knots!
    I'd be hoisting the spinnaker to get some of the pressure.
    Come on 'Wild Eyes', It's time to engage the Turbo boosters.
    ☺☺☺ Hoo Roo ☺☺☺

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  100. Hi Abby
    Side note to Jen who questioned whether you would have 50Kn winds: Jen is right the low pressure area and cloud covers show only 20KN winds, BUT there is a definite squall line in which local winds could reach 50Kn. So batten down, stay clipped on and tidy up the little things...before they become big. Hope you are in touch with Jessica; it's incredibly wonderful that both of you are attempting the same feat; our prayers are that you will both be successful and continue to leave the speculators to there silly ideas of you 2 being in a competition. The only competition for both of you is beneath your keels and in the sky. Louise and I love you both.

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  101. dear Abby I am a 5th grader from Mr. James class in kodiak, alaska.I have been checking your progress every day in class after recess and I love to learn about your journey and would like to know if you have seen any porpouses playing at the front of the bow.

    Adelheid from Mr. James 5th grade class

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  102. Gidday Abby,

    Thanks for the update. I am delighted to see the number of Aussies who are supporting and encouraging you. We are glad to see you are settling in and we know all those years of preparation have put you in good stead.

    Stay safe, be careful!

    Dave and Una .......Brisbane, Queensland Australia

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  103. Hi Abby,
    So many people are interested in your adventures, and really care about your well-being. Don't take your safety and the care of your body and mind for granted...you are precious, and very capable of maintaining the positive outcome in all situations. Thank you for sharing your days with us; we feel extremely fortunate. Although you are away from home, your home is where you are right now, and the waves will connect you from start to finish...take each day as a new challenge, and a chance to learn and grow. Have fun.
    Kelly and Dave from Santa Clarita

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  104. Hi Babsy,
    now that everything is up and running, why don't you send us some pictures and videos.
    Would love to see what is going on out there.
    From time to time Jessica posts some, I wish it would be more!
    Give us also some alberto pictures!
    Next time I'll try to be the first to comment on your blog!
    Anyways, keep up them dodgers,
    Jony the Pony

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  105. Calamari,salt and pepper great,keep in touch with jessica watson and get some tips,interesting to see you have a Australian designed and built yacht. As I said to Jessica.I hope and trust that Neptune keeps both of you in the palm of his hand and treats you with tenderness.

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  106. Hi Abby
    We are pupils from 4G class, school 41, Samara, Russia
    We wish you happy journey and you are welcome to Russia as our guest when you will finish your trip.
    Your mother is not against your trip?

    Yours friends

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

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  108. @Steve, Granma, Anonymous: you can create a Google account with almost no details -or invented-, and that's enough.

    @Soren, from Copenhagen: You probably are full of good intentions, but I am afraid you didn't get much of what happens or how, except about sailing itself. Just to help you, sailing is the sports part of it; but at 90%, it is a human adventure that these young ladies are in. This explains that: many people coming from many countries and places, and many of them landlocked or armchair sailors. It is all about care, support, love, and mankind values. Then, you don't have just groupies or cheerleaders coming for a game, but families, classes, friends, well-wishers of all kinds and respecting each other. No exclusive, but for rudeness, intolerance or abuse.
    You are welcome to join the melting pot, Soren!

    BTW: Sing in the rain, Abby! Your smile will bring the sun back!

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  109. Abby,

    At least you have some company along the way so your not completely alone! Glad to finally hear from you and see your back to where you belong. Sail safe. Keep us posted.

    Denise and family
    South Dakota

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  110. Abby is due West of Acapolco and with nothing to comment on as we await her next update, I spent some time on Google earth checking out the beautiful old hotels on the West peninsula. The color contrast is near perfect with the white majestic buildings, red tile roofs, aqua marine pools, green palm trees and brown earth. Looks like paradise. Of all my travels by Google earth, I'd rate it second to Saint Martin in the Caribbean. If you check out St Martin, it's not hard to see why Laura Dekker chose the island for a liitle R & R when Daddy wasn't looking.

    Any of you geeks have a clue as to why it's taking Jessica's site so long to get up and running again?

    Abby,....One more word on squids. It's good karma to toss them back. They want to live as much as you or I do, and I'm sure if you could understand their language they would be saying in unison, "Abby dear ocean-maid, ocean-princess, you saved our lives, if we had lips, we'd kiss your feet". So all's well that ends well.

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  111. Dear Abby,
    What do you most enjoy doing on your trip around the world?
    How often do you have to stop to get more supplies?

    Thank you!
    :)

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  112. 02-12-10 @ 13:45
    Hi Abby,
    Just wanted to say hello and let you know I’m very pleased with your progress, you’re doing a fine job and I hope you are enjoying yourself at the same time. I imagine that if you’re on the water you’re enjoying yourself. LoL…
    I only want to say that you should not let them squid get into any nooks or crannies since they will rot, stink and the rotting carcass will rot your boat. Nasty little buggers. Seems like you’re doing well so keep it up, and keep a tight ship, so when things get rough, you won’t get hurt by a flying projectile.
    Hope you’re getting plenty of rest, eating well and drinking plenty of fluids.
    I know that you will take good care of yourself, so I won’t mention it….lol…OK???
    Be safe and enjoy and I will wait patiently for your next post.

    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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  113. My class and I are happy that you havesaw some dolphins and squids. I bet you were happy to see the animals.
    Take care,
    Mrs.MacCourtney's Class

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  114. Well, once again we're back, being voyeurs of sorts as one more incredible Sunderland child makes history.
    God speed Abby......you'll be in our prayers.

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  115. Hi Captain Abby!!!!

    I can't wait to hear until you get near the equator. Would you pass by the Galapagos? Well, keep the sail yonder up...

    Janet Acosta-Hosbchaidt
    Puerto Rico-NJ

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  116. hello.. i love u, please add my link to partnership

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  117. Hi Abby,
    we love rading your blog
    keep living your dream

    i have a question regarding your map
    is the webmaster going to fix the Day
    currently it says day 21 it should read day 7

    It will get confusing soon

    John
    LA

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  118. Hey Abby,

    If you look directly East of your location, past Central America, all the way to the Carribean islands, you will see a little butterfly shaped island called Guadeloupe. This is where I was born and grew up. I loved the climate there, and I hope yours is as good. If it is still raining, hopefully is warm.

    I check you site about daily. Thanks for the updates, and we are with you. Stay stong!

    Tim

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  119. Hello there, Abby, it is another day on the ocean that is another experience for you. I am sure everyday is somewhat different. You are doing great. So many people out there cheering for you. Its amazing what connection countries have in events such as this. How great huh?
    I also see Kelly and Dave, in Santa Clarita are keeping up with you also.
    Luck and good sailing girl.
    Dee Thompson from Santa Clarita, Ca.

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  120. Hey Marianne and Laurence -

    When might we see some long/lat locations on Abby's blog?

    Hope all is well1

    Melanie in Torrance

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  121. @ Bob from Seattle: I have not idea WHY, but Jessica's OLD site is taking blog comments while her NEW one is still "disabled".


    Steve in California

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  122. Robert Lockwood, Lafayette, CAFebruary 12, 2010 at 4:30 PM

    ABBY - You are a girl after my own heart with your adventure. I am one of the many who wanted to but never made it (at 76 it won't work). God bless and keep you safe.

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  123. @Anonymous = Jessica' new site is working well now.
    The old one's comments' access was working, but reserved to team members. Everything is OK now.

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  124. Abby,

    Here's hoping you do not hit any truly bad weather, e.g. typhoons. I live in Taiwan, and have been watching the record of tropical storms as they progress from "depression" to "tropical storm" to "typhoon," with the latter ranging from Cat. 1 (64 - 82 knots) to a Cat. 5 Supertyphoon (over 135 knots). I have experienced the latter--on land and safe in a concrete building. Trees, roofing, signboards, motor scooters, potted plants, etc. were blown around and torn apart in those winds.

    I'm not sure if your course will pass through the northwest Pacific, but the storm warnings started early this year: January 19 was the first storm watch. This contrasts with the previous three years.

    First warnings:
    January 19, 2010
    May 3, 2009
    April 14, 2008
    March 31, 2007

    So this year has had an early start. I see that currently there is a Cat. 2 cyclone in the SW Pacific, near American Samoa which is expected to grow to Cat. 3 with about 110 knots of winds by tomorrow. (For comparison, Hurricane Katrina was also a Cat. 3, at 125 knots, when it made landfall at New Orleans.)

    Happy and safe sailing to you!

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  125. Hi again Abby,Glad to see you are doing good on your sailing trip.
    We will keep a track of you everyday.
    Stay safe and keep sailing.
    Keep us posted as as you go if you have the time.
    Be safe lil one God Bless.
    Your friends Robert,Ellen,Autumn and Alison

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  126. Good Luck to you on your long journey. Try and keep as focused as possible when necessary. Most of all enjoy the journey and keep everyone posted/

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  127. HI ABBY,WE ARE HOPEING THAT YOU AND JESSICA MAKE HOME SAFE. And praying you make it home SOON!
    We wish you the very very BEST of LUCK!
    Macy R.Dewitt
    I am 9 years old and live in Michigan.
    p.s. be careful it is dangerous

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  128. abby

    Did you take any pics of when you crossed the equator? you are a very busy gal, we know. maybe your team could post for you when you cant just to let all of us know you are o.k.(I know, we are all worry warts!)

    be safe lil lady!

    susan H ny

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