I'm into the Roaring 40s!! I crossed over into the 40s late last night. The skies didn't turn black, there was no roaring wind or crashing seas, no pouring rain or anything else. In fact, all there was to hear was the occasional flogging of my sails as the little bit of wind I did have faltered in and out.
Every big event that has taken place during my trip seems to be maddeningly calm and slow. When I left Marina del Rey, there was barely enough wind to keep my sails full, I almost crossed the equator twice in one day because there was no wind and a current pushing me backwards and now I have a good day with lots of wind but I get into the "Roaring" 40s and my wind dies. Next thing you know I'll be down at Cape Horn up on deck in a swimming suit reading a book!
As frustrating as it is, I guess I am really lucky to have such calm weather so far, even if it doesn't make for many exciting stories. The wind is beginning to pick up so hopefully I'll be able to make up for the slow day.
My chart desk seat is much more stable. Whether thats due to the Velcro thats all over the bottom now or just because of it being calmer out I have yet to find out. It was nice to have a little bit of calm weather and sun to give everything a good check over, finish up a few jobs, and get the batteries nice and full from the solar panels.
I'm about two weeks away from Cape Horn now and very excited to be getting so close!
Well, thats all for now. Thank you all for your comments! I really enjoy hearing from everyone!
Abby
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Oh man o man. Don't jinx yourself. Ha ha, only joking. You're a prepared, smart gal, so you know what might await you.
ReplyDeleteGreat job, Abby.
I've been following your journey since the beginning and just wanted to let you know how excited I am for you! I love checking your map every day to see how far you got!
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear of your progress Abby. The next two weeks and beyond could very well be full of excitement as you near and pass Cape Horn. Sounds like you and Wild Eyes are well prepared and up to the task. My prayers have been and will continue to be with you. God Speed as you continue your voyage and approach the first, very potentially challenging part of your journey.
ReplyDeleteBest wishes from the Black Hills of South Dakota!
Skipper, again thanks for your update, nice to hear that you are still having fun. Like you said this is not a race so no hurry get to the cape when ever you get there. Stay safe and dry.
ReplyDeleteOI! RICHARD RUMBLE,
ReplyDeleteFirst you make an outlandishly incorrect claim that Jessica Watson is receiving outside assistance in the form of food parcels.
And now you criticize Abby's spelling while she is struggling to stay in her seat typing while her boat is screaming along.
Wrack off Normie!!!
I just happened to stumble accross your blog and I am SOOOOO glad that I did! What an amazing young woman you are. Such bravery, gumption and zest! I cannot wait to keep up to date with you now and follow your travels. Best sailing to you!
ReplyDeleteBrittany
www.birdysbooks.blogspot.com
You are an amazing person, stay safe and enjoy the ride!
ReplyDeleteCongrats on reaching the Roaring 40's! Your blog is a daily stopover for me. Question: are there birds following your course?
ReplyDeleteHi Abby -- Glad to hear your crossing into the roaring 40s was uneventful! Every big event may be 'maddeningly calm and slow' to you, but you are being persistent and look where you are --14 days or so from Cape Horn!
ReplyDeleteI chuckled at your humorous word picture of rounding the Cape --sitting on deck, clad in a swim suit, book in hand!! :) It'll probably be a bit more exciting than that. ....Seriously, I hope your rounding is just exciting enough to give you the kind of thrill you're hoping for and that it all goes very well for you!
Even though the going seems slow to you, you really are chewing up the miles. Keep up your good work, sail smart, and sail safe!
GO GIRL
Blessings,
Janell in Oklahoma, USA
Good Evening Captain,
ReplyDelete"At Cape Horn up on deck in a swimming suit reading a book"....will there be video of that??
ABBY...thanks for sharing...and acknowledging everyone's comments....have a safe night (and more wind).
john, Bay of Quinte, Lake Ontario, Canada eh!
I thank God it's been a 'boring' trip so far. May it so continue!
ReplyDeleteWhen you round Diego Ramirez you will not be sun bathing but you won't care. The thrill of the passage will be the only thing you notice.
ReplyDeleteFair winds and smooth seas and don't forget all they taught you.
You're doing great Abby! We keep sending you lots of positive thoughts!
ReplyDeleteQuick question: electrical power seems to be a primary concern for you. With solar panels and wind generator working to charge the batteries, what is it about your boat that consumes so much power that you sometimes have to resort to running the engine to charge the batteries?
ReplyDeleteBonjour Abby & Wild Eyes,
ReplyDeleteAbby, you really are something else: the Right Stuff :-)
Enjoy, Be safe.
cool. why arnt you happy about the weather. it's calm and like you said not alot of waves i would be happy, but beacarfull like kelly said don't jinx yourself
ReplyDeleteT.C
Congratulations Abby as you pass another milestone - even if it was seemingly uneventful! Checking you location and blog, and praying for you daily.
ReplyDeleteKeith and Kathy Wargo, Lynchburg VA
Hi Abby: I've been following your journey every single day because I believe in you. You have the determination and skills to achieve this record. Keep the faith and spirits up! Wayne Wild I.
ReplyDeleteNo matter how much your sails are luffing with no wind, just be glad that you aren't Ferdinand Magellan trying to beat around the Horn in the "wrong" direction in a square rigger filled with mutinous crewmen. A mutiny is not on your horizon, I think.
ReplyDeleteOn the other hand, Sir Francis Drake managed to make quite a haul in Spanish gold and silver. That isn't on your horizon, either.
Does it ever dawn on you that you are following such people 400 to 500 years later; that the sights that you see are the same sights as seen by them?
I'll bet that they didn't catch any fish, either.
Hi Abby
ReplyDeletethanks for the Roaring 40°s report.
glad you had the Velcro to solve the cushion slip!
always enjoy your reports and the frequency of them is appreciated, too.
stay clipped on/FairWinds & Calm Seas
Bruce S/Sydney
@bengt ... have you published a Wild Eyes ETA post? I have been away from the computer and may have missed it ... I keep JW's one on my desktop.
Congratulations Abby on entering the Roaring 40's even though you would like some more action!
ReplyDeleteI am certain, that the ocean will not disappoint, you still have a ways to go!
Keep well, happy and above all else safe,
Trudy, Austria/Australia
well done Abby-
ReplyDeletewish you steady winds and smooth seas all the way back home
Aziz/An old friend of Al Criqui
what is the roaring 40's
ReplyDeleteHope you get enough wind to keep you moving, but not enough to put you in danger!
ReplyDeleteAbby, your mom and dad have to be one set of proud parents. Been following your trip from the beginning, along with my construction crew.
ReplyDeleteKeep up the great job. Your an inspiration to all young ladies!!!!
Rick & Crew
Medford, Oregon
you are doing great hang in there Abby Jim Coronado Ca
ReplyDeleteHiya Abby,
ReplyDeleteNow there's something to remember... how many times have you crossed over into the Roaring 40s in your life? Making memories... that's what it's all about! Have fun, make some more, and stay safe!
Capt'n Mudgie
Palos Verdes Peninsula
Abs,
ReplyDeleteI am following your blog like a madwoman these days and can't wait for you to round the horn! You totally rock.
Cheers & Good Thoughts!
Meg
Where's Abby? It is a common question around our house these days! We love tracking your progress - keep up the great job!!!
ReplyDeleteThe Rigdon Family
Fenton, MO
I wouldn't fret too much about the calmness of your situation, Abby. In about two weeks you're going to be wishing for latitude 40 and a swim suit. The wind, waves and current I know you can handle, but cold is a real bear. I hate cold. I more than hate cold! Being a Southern Cali girl I'm sure it's not one of your favorite things either. I'll be praying for you like I always do, but for the next month or two I'll include your heater in my prayers.
ReplyDeleteGod speed. Stay safe.
Jim
Phoenix
Aussies Everywhere......I agree 100%.
ReplyDeleteAbby give us a grid reference weekly, not too often for security reasons.
ReplyDeleteBill
Johannesburg, South Africa
Hi Abby, Well getting there is the real story and even if it is uneventful that's OK, just so long as you are safe and like you have said its not a race, but the 40's are something to cheer.May the wind be in your Sails... 38º44N/122º67"W
ReplyDeleteLong periods of boredom, punctuated by moments of sheer terror. Enjoy the calm, but remember the "moments".
ReplyDeleteAbby, your descriptions of your experience are fantastic. Keep writing to us. We're all excited for you as we follow your story. -Fred
ReplyDeleteI remember when I crossed the Arctic Circle in Alaska while driving in my truck about a hundred miles north of Fairbanks...I was so excited and expected the weather to change or do something significant but nothing happened. There was a signpost that said, "You are Crossing the Arctic Circle" 66 degrees 33' north or something and so I got out of my truck and snapped a bunch of photos all around, lol. Sort of reminds me what you went through although situations waaaay, waaaaaay different.
ReplyDeleteI am sure the Horn will have a good blow waiting for you Abby, from all I read about it. Happy sailing and thanks for pictures and keeping us updated on your progress
Mike from Indiana
Thanks Abby
ReplyDeleteYou are doing well
Luv
Richard (QLD) Aus
03-15-10 @ 05:21
ReplyDeleteHi Abby,
Congrats on getting into the 40s and I think I know how you feel. You don’t want your voyage to be handed to you on a silver platter, and I can appreciate that, you want to work for it with some ’weather’ and a few thrills. I don’t blame you for feeling that way but just be patient, I’m sure you’ll get your ‘weather’. But I still hope it’s not to violent. You’ve still got the Cape to go around and then the “unpredictable” Indian Ocean. So keep your chin up and don’t get to complacent. Even if you don’t get any storms or such, just having the courage to attempt this voyage says a lot about you.
Not good enough though….lol… Ahhhhhh, youth is so fearless sometimes. You make me feel so proud of you Abby. Well OK then we’ll hope for a little storm, yes?? At least meet me half-way….lol…
You’re description of going around the Cape was funny, I had a good laugh over that.
Well Abby, I hope the wind continues to build up and lets you and Wild Eyes cut loose, and burn up some nm’s. Just make sure that Charlie and Mr. Doggie have their belts on, as well as yourself!!!
It’s good to see that you’re taking advantage of the calm that you’re into right now and getting some preventive maintenance and some of the light work done. Good for you, you are not a slacker!!!!
I was glad to see that you found a convenience store out there, good for you.
Did you remember to get the co-ordinates on that. I hope you get a chance to really check it out, with a little bit of weather.
I’ve been meaning to ask, how is your Mom doing?
Take good care of yourself, Wild Eyes and the crew, things will change.
Always thinking of you, and always proud of 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
Dearest Abby,
ReplyDeleteI can cope with your blogs like this all the way through your journey. I find them exciting and interesting enough to read and I just want you to reach home safe and sound. It would be nice if you could have "WEATHER TO ORDER". Just enough wind and waves to make life exciting. I guess that it's half the fun having the unpredictability of not knowing what's going to happen next.
Not long now Abby and you will be around Cape Horn. How exciting. Two weeks will fly by. I'm please to hear that the Roaring 40's are roaring too much.
Are your Mum and Dad going to fly over your plane at any stage of your voyage? It would be nice if they could see you from the air and communicate with you while flying over. Jesse Watson had her Mum and Dad fly over when she went around Cape Horn.
Keep up the great sailing Abby. You are such a clever lass and so inspirational. Enjoy, keep safe and warm and thanks again for your faithful blogging and photos.
Big hugs, God bless and warmest wishes from Jan Pace (Auckland, New Zealand)
Norm and everyone else that tries,
ReplyDeletePlease stop with the Jessica V Abby Crap!
I find it .....childish, and not at all in the spirit of why they are both doing it.
Len in Florida
Great update; my family is glued to your daily progress. Our best wishes and prayers go out to you.
ReplyDeleteHi Abby,
ReplyDeleteJust wondering what happened to halt fwd progress & back track 400 or so miles before fwd progress was achieved again over days 44-47?
Are winds so weak & currents so strong they carry your boat backwards that quickly, or was there a strategic maneuver or perhaps some lapse of concentration involved?
Glad to see you are making good progress again.
Stay safe!
Hi Abby,
ReplyDeleteGood to read your post. Glad to hear everything is going well and your seat is more stable. Hopefully the winds pick up and in no time at all you will be around the horn.
Keep safe,
Joy
Ballarat
Australia
Abby, I used to sail in Marina del Rey and used to live in Thousand Oaks and Newbury Park so now I read your blog everyday. Keep up with your blog and best of luck on your trip
ReplyDeleteCAREFULL FOR COLLISION
ReplyDeleteWe are sailing in LiveSkipper a worldtour from Wellington rounding Cape Horn in about 10-15 days depending on the winds, and continuing to France.
See the map http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&msid=100901497129455024856.000481840e50504514267&ll=-23.079732,-108.808594&spn=79.852635,113.027344&t=h&z=3
last "boat" is 15mar 01:00 GMT.
I have plotted your dot51 for coordination as well a pin for panov seamount.
BUT .........luckily we are sailing virtual in LiveSkipper, so any collision will be virtual as well, without any damage to your beautiful boat.
see part of the whole fleet; some 723 boats.
http://www.liveskipper.com/index.php?option=com_liveskipper&task=controlBoat&raceId=68&Itemid=15
At this moment we are in winds/storms of 30-40 kts, so be aware that the roaring40's DO EXISTS!
These stormfronts moving too fast for us to follow, these are just blowing over our masts and than a next front arrives.
Get your reefs in at a proper time !
Success in your world tour, keep in touch to prevent a collision :)
Two weeks before Cape Horn? I smiled at your description of how you would celebrate it due to your lack of winds. I hope that passage is kind to you and you experience the thrills you expect from that area but not the dangers.
ReplyDeleteKeep up with the routine of checks. Glad to hear that your cushion isn't sliding around now.
Most of all be safe and keep enjoying your experience.
Thank YOU for taking time out to keep us all up to date.
Jeanie in the Lakes.
Hi Captain Abby, Welcome to the "40s". Take advantage of the mild conditions while you can. There will be plenty of opportunities to test your sailing skills. You're doing great!
ReplyDeleteBe Safe! Be Happy! Godspeed!
Poor Miss Abby, who wanted to tame the infamous roaring forties, and faces some purring forties instead... Gone for lions, and finding kittens?
ReplyDeleteTime to wonder whether Neptune wants to make you a gift, or make fun of your sailor abilities! I guess he allows you some quiet moments before sending some stronger winds and waves to test you. Be ready, Skipper!
Thank you for the post, having news is always a pleasure. Start thinking of clipping and tethering every object inside, in case some roller-coaster came suddenly from nowhere!
We know you are a brave and skillful sailor, but it would be dull to get a bump... from a flying pan or hairbrush!
Pat Wild Eyes and hug your two stuffed mates! They will help you to clean your cabin and wash your dishes!
Keep it going Abby...you are doing great
ReplyDeleteHope you can take pics when u get to the Cape...btw getting tired of the freeze dried foods yet?
ReplyDeleteAbby,
ReplyDeleteWhat system are you using to get a signal for the internet? How much power does this system draw ? So how much time each day do you allow yourself to be online and and reading and writing? Sorry about all the questions if team Abby responds that would be fine. And Abby you have a great support crew back home if they can get you around the horn in calm weather enjoy the ride. You don't have to go into a hurricane or typhoon to make this exciting reading. I look forward to your posts every morning. Thanks for taking the time to write to all of us out there.
Hi Abby , I love Your Dream :
ReplyDelete"...at Cape Horn up on deck in a swimming suit reading a book! ..."
...a boot is comming from Ushuaia bringing You a portion of Ice-Cream , not via Penguin-Service from Antarctica , its from an Ice-Cream-Parlor , to have an Ice-Cream-Break ...
Back home , You are the youngest Ice-Cream-supported-Circumnavigator-Lady of the World ...
Dream , and You'll have no time for frustration . When the Wind freshens He will wake You up .
Dreams and Dreamers create New Worlds
May the Angels of the Sea always protect You
Greetings from Rainbow-Dreamer
You go, girl! Love following your journey (from Boston, MA)!
ReplyDeletedo you have any star charts? and just wondered what it was like sailing a few hundred years ago? what an adventure! Godspeed!
ReplyDeleteContinuing safe passage Abby.
ReplyDeleteGreat job, Abby. I always enjoy reading your blogs. If you ever do get a picture that you believe perfectly captures a moment out there, be sure to let us know! Regardless, keep up taking pictures and sharing them with us and keep up the wonderful blog! All my best to you out there and to your team. Peace, Your Oklahoma Well-Wisher
ReplyDeleteGreat Post Abby. Part of me says " sorry you didn't have any roaring winds etc" the other part says I' glad. I am sure you are capable of handeling most anything that comes your way. But.... we do worry about you. I have always wanted to see "The Horn", but guess not.
ReplyDeleteStay Safe.... We luv ya
Blue Skies and Friendly Winds
Bud and Charla Winnett
Wheeling, Mo
Hi Abby!
ReplyDeleteHi Abby!
Again, you are my hero and your attitude is amazing! I am enjoying your journey so much from my office computer! Dang! Wish I could be sailing with you Abby. Can't wait till you get to the horn safe and sound.
God Bless!
Laura Robillard
Illinois
Skipper,
ReplyDeletePermission to come aboard...your blog that is! Abbie, I heard about you going into Cabo and have watched your progress every day since. I too am excited for you about getting so close to the Cape. Keep that attitude! I really think you are right to get any of those little things done when you can. It pays dividends to know you fixed this or that, or made something better. Have a great day and what's the weather like today? Cheers!
Mon Elole (little duck)
Hi Abby - I'm a Grandpa and I told my grandkids about your adventures and made three more fans for you. The oldest is 10, and you are quite an inspiration to him. You are a wonderful role model for other young people. Enjoy every day and stay safe - we are thinking of you and praying for you.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteAbby - Great to hear that things are going well. I would rather hear that you are fighting no wind than those exciting stories that you could tell that make my heart stop just reading them! (I guess that classifies me as "old")
ReplyDeleteLove your pictures and loved the video blog. Hope to be able to see more in the future! I love to see what conditions you are in. Because of you and your brother I have this wild fascination with the ocean and sailing (even though I have barely been on a rowboat) - but I am living my new found love via you. So - bring on the pics!!! Take care out there and be safe! You have a lot of prayers going your way!
Kay
Hi Abby,
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on arriving in the 40's! I love reading your blog every day and enjoying your voyage vicariously. Thanks for sharing your dream with us!
Lori in MN
Hi Babsy,
ReplyDeletekeep up them dodgers,
Jony the Pony
To the blog.....
ReplyDeleteIt occurs to me that some of the people that follow blogs take this all WAY to seriously. YES it is a serious undertaking for a 17 y.o. to be in a 40' boat in the middle of the ocean... It is a serious thing for ANYBODY to be in a 40'boat in the middle of the ocean. But your blogging.. MY blogging .. anybody blogging is totally insignificant to the task itself. WE are random thoughts of people on lands far far away from the "action" and the people on the boats ( because I follow several) who may or may not even be reading our comments.
To Susanne:
Lighten up girl... did you not see the LOL at end of the post? Do you know what that means? Is it not ok for people other than family to poke some tongue in cheek fun to lighten up the blog?
To the obviously upset person who yelled obscenities via an anonymous email at me:
Hey Buddy.. if you want a serious conversation then have the courtesy to leave me a valid email...
To Captain Abby....
YOU have my utmost respect and admiration... and I am sure that you know that via the posts of the past..
You and Team Abby are doing a stand up job and I am sure that you all know it.
Sail Safe.. Post Often and HAVE FUN...
Abby,
ReplyDeleteGreetings from Charlotte, NC. Congrats on the Roaring 40s. Great sailing. Thanks for the update. Looking forward to the next one.
Good to see you racking up some miles now. Enjoy the ride, very few get to be on that list (but you know that). It IS the journey that counts and what a great thing to be part of. Great job sailor!
ReplyDeleteKerri from California
Abby,
ReplyDeletethis is an amazing journey! wishing you all the best and i love checking in on your posts!
God bless!
Hi Abby,
ReplyDeleteFirst I would like to say how wonderful it is to read the posts of the new bloggers as they arrive on board Wild Eyes each day, figuratively of course. It is heart warming to see so many young, very young people who are cheering you on while looking up to you as well. As the commercial intimates, heading into the roaring 40s, wonderful, having a young person like Laiqa (chocoholic888 @ 7:34AM) look up to you, 'priceless'! Of course I still thoroughly enjoy reading all the 'ol standbys' each morning. Gosh what a great group of people! Oh and welcome back Jony the Pony, I and others missed you. I do hope that Richard and the guys can work it out after all we are all family, right?
Abby you are AWESOME! Your posts have been wonderfully informative and exciting as well. My guess is that you will really have to start powering Wild Eyes down as you head into the winds near the Cape. Please be safe and 'shift into those lower gears' (reefing and smaller headsails) ahead of time.
I am already looking forward to your next post.
God Bless you Abby. My prayers are with you always.
Cheryl
Congrats Abby. Way to go!! I'm glad you had the velcro, I hope you have plenty of zip ties, baling wire, and duct tape too. From working on cars, motorcycles and bicycles I'd have to say that trifecta has saved my behind on many an occasion when I've needed to jerry-rig something together.
ReplyDeleteHa ha, trying to use reverse psychology on Mother Nature? Challenging nature to a test of wits is usually fun. Not always fruitful. Now you are on for a swimsuit passage around the Horn. However, Mother Nature may plan otherwise. Either way, stay safe and sail on, Captain Abby!
ReplyDeleteHere's a question for you Abby, what have you learned about sailing on this trip so far that you didn't know when you left?
ReplyDeleteAbout "every event being maddeningly calm and slow", I predict this is the last time you'll have to comment on the subject. When you flip a coin, you might get heads several times in a row, but not forever. Things tend to balance out. Buckle up!:-)
Another question: Have you seen any albatrosses yet? And now that you're heading east and will be going through different times zones more rapidly, do you reset an on board clock to stay accurate with your current position? Or do you not worry about it and just go by the sun? I think the latter would be cool to experience. Alone at sea and who cares what time it is! Or do you need a time reference for log entrees?
i think i envy you. not only for your goals, and the whole "living the dream" thing, but also for being able to spend every night on the water.
ReplyDeletei LOVE sleeping on a boat.
happy sailing!
I have a question. If you are down below, how on earth does the boat sail, keep on course, and have the sails going the right way? Duh - obviously I am not a sailor!
ReplyDeleteIt's been so great reading about your adventures! I'm glad you continue to be upbeat and strong and that things are going your way! You are very brave!
ReplyDeleteElle
Abby,
ReplyDeleteYou write, "...even if it doesn't make for many exciting stories." We don't want any exciting stories. We hope and pray for a calm and peaceful sail.
Perry
West Hills, CA
Hi Babsy,
ReplyDeletekeep listening! I guess, at some point you should hear one of them foarty roaring. Please let us know when you see one of them foarty. Jess did not yet provide us with a picture of them foarty, so it is your chance to be the first to photograph them foarty whether roaring or not. I am curious whether you will see a male or a female foarty? I guess you can hear from the roaring whether it is a male or a female. Make a sound recording, OK?
Keep up them dodgers,
Jony the Pony
Great update Abby. Wow, you were moving right along for awhile, since you're now in the 40s. Pretty cool, I'd say! But, that's funny about the amount of calm you've had. A strange one, huh. lol.. Don't think I'd be breaking out a swim suit for the Cape tho. If that happens, I'll really worry about 'global, er polar warming'!
ReplyDeleteSo, enjoy, keep up the nice posts. I look for you every day and enjoy your sharing your adventure with me. I'm an old Navy sailor and always enjoyed being at sea, and have always missed it.
Take care, and here's wishing you some WIND!
IndyMike
39°50’N, 86°9’W
Here's an attempt to answer two blog posted questions at once: The specs on Abby's boat (as listed on her home page (under Boat) indicate that she has two Coursemaster CM850i autopilots. (One must be active...the other installed as backup.)
ReplyDeleteIn the simplest terms the autopilot is a combo of electronic and mechanical devices that receives input from the GPS system that "tells it" where the boat is and in what compass direction its traveling. Abby can literally "dial in" the direction she wants to go (degrees on the compass) and the autopilot maintains that course by sending a signal to a hydraulic drive device that adjusts the rudder.
Details here:
http://www.coursemaster.com/images/stories/CM800i_bro.pdf
This is undoubtedly the greatest power drain on the electrical system, as the unit is frequently adjusting the helm.
Sailors often refer to their autopilots in the familiar: "Its wet out here, I'm going below. Otto, your turn to drive."
Steve in California
Bonjour Abby & Wild Eyes,
ReplyDeleteLook who's back: Jony the Pony!
Take care, Be safe
@ Jony the Pony: keep up them comments!
Abby,
ReplyDeleteO.K. if you would really like to get the perfect cover picture for your book it would be a picture of you on deck in a swimming suit reading the Hobbit with Cape Horn in the background. If you happen to have 30 foot waves crashing over Wild Eyes, it would make it even more dramatic. By the way, did you make it through the Hobbit or did you give up on that one.
When it comes to the weather, just be careful what you wish for. You know that you will get hammered sooner or later, so enjoy your calm conditions while you have them.
It really is exciting that you’re getting so close to Cape Horn. That definitely will require a celebration and I always look forward to a celebration.
Take care and have fun, Abby.
From Seattle, WA, USA
SaltyDog
I'll take a calm over a knock-down anytime. goodluck
ReplyDeleteAbby, When you get to Cape Horn, take a pic of yourself in a bathing suit and book, and an iceberg or two in the background! keep up the great effort, God speed and God bless! Michael
ReplyDeleteHey Abby,
ReplyDeleteBeen following your blog since you left CA. Another great post! Love your sense of humor. Let's see more of that! I think you have to put on the swimming suit and take a pic when crossing Cape Horn just for the record. And don't forget the sun shades and the teen magazine! LOL. 200 NM in one day, eh? That's another record and a tribute to a fast boat and a good skipper. Thanks for sharing the journey. Don't worry about the schoolwork. It will be waiting for you at journey's end. Hey, you are young and have all the time in the world to finish high school. Though you might be a little busy with movie and book deals! You are already famous and a very special and fortunate young lady. But I am sure you already know that. Be safe out there and enjoy every minute of it.
John in Ashland OR
Hey Abby,
ReplyDeleteI'm sixteen years old just as you are, and all my dreams are about when I can get my license. But your dreams are so much bigger. It's amazing that you are able to do this by yourself. Congratulations on making it this far and Good Luck in the future.
Lucy
Abby,
ReplyDeleteAkademik Kurchatov Fracture Zone... Panov Seamount... About 654 miles Northwest of The Bloop. Have I missed something? I can't find these points on a map. Best wishes on a safe and successful voyage.
John & Darlene
Kerrville, Tx
The Bloop...
ReplyDeleteI LUV it! We're talkin' some strange trivia now. Region of Unidentified Sound emitted from the ocean floor near 50S 100 W
.....YES!
Steve in California
I know this is a solo expedition but it seems like a lot of folks are riding along with you... including me. David in Tennessee.
ReplyDeleteGuy says hi Abbey.Go girl!I'm a sailor from Va and am so jealous of your adventure. Wish I was there with you. I feel like I am. Could you answer a question? How did you get so far away from South America? Was that by design or was it just wind direction that forced you out so far. Great luck and good sailing!
ReplyDeleteBonjour Abby & Wild Eyes,
ReplyDeleteWind is coming! :-)
Take care, Be safe.
@ John & Darlene / Kerville, Tx
Answers:
Google map: http://www.mapplanet.com/?do=map&id=18065341&lat=-36.6667&lon=-125.1667
Other links:
http://www.geonames.org/advanced-search.html?q=fracture&startRow=50
http://www.gebco.net/data_and_products/undersea_feature_names/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/General_Bathymetric_Chart_of_the_Oceans
http://www.springerlink.com/content/awv76748l5772102/
Bonjour Abby & Wild Eyes,
ReplyDeleteMake sure to tell Steve in California if you do meet a Bloop! :-)
Take care, Be safe.
http://xksinz.blogspot.com/2009_03_01_archive.html#2448988074631146233
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bloop
HI Abbey,
ReplyDeleteYou may enjoy hearing from us, but believe me when I say we really enjoy hearing from you. I hope that your trip around the horn isn't any more exciting than the weather you are presently receiving. Please continue frequent postings to your blog. There are many of us who really enjoy keeping track of you. Dennis
Abby,
ReplyDeleteBe careful what you ask for. Calm and boring can turn mean and nasty in a heartbeat. Stay safe. The Cape is something to take very seriously. My thoughts are with you every day. I can't wait to get home and read your latest post.
Like Kelly (March 14, 2010 8:11 PM ) said, DON'T jinx yourself! The wind may be calm at the moment, but don't invite Mr. Murphy aboard (or one of his nautical cousins).
ReplyDeleteOkay, I am trying to chill! It has only been 22 hours since I heard from Abby and I pacing. I am that kind of mom, too; but, my kids gave me a break, now my adolescent grandsons are really kind to me, too. People close to me know I just want everyone to be having a blast in life and want them to be safe, too. I like to get what I want. Abby, hope you are riding high, that you are tieing everything down, and that you stay LINKED. Team Abby, thank you for the daily marker on the location link. I really like wwww.passageweather.com - get the present forecast to 180 hours (7.5 days) on expected surface pressure, wave height/direction, and pressure so I get a general idea what is going on and what is coming. It worked for me up hear in the NW as I tracked an incoming storm and saw that it works for me - just enough information to let me know it must be fairly accurate for Abby's location, too. God speeed, Abby.I am praying for you always, a special young lady.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on entering the Roaring 40's! Enjoy the calm seas and fair winds as the journey is as important as the destination, or more.
ReplyDeleteHere is some encouraging good news today (March 15) on transocean seamanship by Katie Spotz, the youngest person to row across the Atlantic.
"The 22-year-old woman became the youngest person to make the trip across the Atlantic alone in a rowboat. After 70 days at sea, hundreds of well-wishers welcomed Spotz into the port of Georgetown, Guyana Sunday as she completed her 2,817 mile journey from Dakar, Senegal.
For over two months, she rowed alone amid high waves, beating sun, and very little fresh food.
"The hardest part was just the solo part," Spotz told The Associated Press.
Abby, may there be hundreds of well-wishers greeting you when you return from circumnavigating the earth!
Abby,
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear about the velcro on your seat to keep things orderly. LOL. Good job, Skipper!
Sail on, little Abby
ReplyDeleteCongratulations! A nice relaxing bit of sailing sounds fabulous right about now. Enjoy!
ReplyDeleteAbby,
ReplyDeleteMy wife and I have been following your blog and are praying for you. It is our hope that you will daily encounter "the Lord of the Heavens and the Earth, the Sea and all that is in them" as together you journey on this amazing adventure. What a priviledge! Safest travels and keep those updates coming. God bless!
Bryan
John & Darlene in Kerrville Tx...Google "The Bloop". It is a unmapped stop in the ocean about 50°S 100°W where ultra-low frequency and extremely powerful underwater sound was detected by the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) several times during the summer of 1997. The source of the sound has never been identified.
ReplyDeleteAbby, good evening. You're going to be around the Horn heading to warmer weather before you know it. Have fun, we are.
Stay safe and God speed.
Jim
Love reading your blog! Good luck and happy sailing!
ReplyDeletePaula in Baku, Azerbaijan
Hi Abby
ReplyDeleteDon't take any offence to the guys comments about you in a bikini rounding the Cape. Oh guys come on hypothermia is not a prerequisite for a good picture. LOL.
Keep warm Abby and well harnesed in. Keep smiling fair winds.
Evie from Bendigo
Have been enjoying reading your blog. Got the link from someone on Twitter. Stay safe and keep taking those gorgeous pics!! One question...how bored do you get in a day or do you have too much to do always?
ReplyDeleteJules in Colorado
@Laiqa Shariff AKA: Chocoholic888
ReplyDeletewww.laiqa.com (March 15, 2010 7:34 AM):
You too, sound like an amazing young person! Judging from your post to Abby's blog and from a quick glance at your own blog, you are well on your way to becoming a terrific writer.
While Abby attempts to sail into the history books, you are honing your skills as a writer. Who knows...one day history may speak of the great & prolific author, Laiqa Shariff!!
Keep up the great writing.
--A stranger captivated by all dreams explored.
Hi Babsy,
ReplyDeletekeep up them dodgers,
Jony the Pony
Hello I have v=been following Abby's journey as I admire anyone who attempts such an awesome task. However having a crack at Jessica Watson is beneath contempt for she is one gutsy young girl.Why not admire both. For those that do not know Jessica Watson, she is an Aussie 16 year old, who is nearing home In Australia having had four knock downs near Cape Horn. I Admire Abby so why cannot you yanks admire Jessica Watson. Keep out the cheap shots please as you only demean yourself.
ReplyDeleteHi Abbey,
ReplyDeleteYou really are steaming, 200nm in one day is really something. Hope you aren't trailing a fishing lure, at that speed a good bite might pull the transom out lol
Enjoy the lull while you have it and don't wish too hard for strong winds. You just might get them. All my family are following you ( son,daughter and 8 grandchildren) even though we are not great bloggers. Keep up the good work, sail safely and Godspeed
Peter, Gold Coast, Aus
Congratulations, your just fab well done. xx
ReplyDeleteDear Abby,
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on your trip so far. Just wanted to let you know that my Life Skills Special Ed. class is following your daily progress. My students are learning about sailing, the world map, weather, just for starters. We check in on your progress every day.
Enjoy your trip, a life time full of memories.
Good idea about the velcro. Might even be good practice :-)
ReplyDeleteHook/loop stuck to the top of seat of the chair, loop/hook stuck to the bottom of cushion. Voila!
I say good practice because perhaps in 2 weeks you might want to consider; hook/loop stuck to top of cushion, loop/hook stuck to bottom of pants :-)
wow, your really brave to be doing that! I hope you make it! That's pretty cool!
ReplyDeleteHey Abby, you are really cruising along now. Can you or someone tell me how come you got so far away from S America. Was it by design or just the winds that pushed you south and west?
ReplyDeleteBe safe and fair sailing. Sailorguy from Va.
@anonymous 7:36AM
ReplyDeleteYou know I thought long and hard about whether or not to reply to your comments. Well here goes. I like many others on Abby's blog also post on Jessica's as well and contrary to your observations, we not only love them both we also pray for them daily. I read Abby's blog at least once each day and other than one comment made by one individual whose comment was not confirmed that it even referred to Jessica, I have never seen any post remotely resembling a negative comment. At any rate you should probably address the individual that you believe made the comment(s)rather than cast your net over all of these wonderful caring people.
God Bless you.
Cheryl
For those of you are are relatively new here and haven't yet become familiar with passageweather.com, you can see the wind speed and direction, among other things, Abby will be sailing through for the next week. As she approaches the Drake passage at the tip of South America things will get interesting weather-wise and Abby should finally get into something that will provide the excitement she has been longing for and be able to sail her boat to its designed potential.
ReplyDeleteHere's what I do: I go to South Pacific Ocean (All), put my cursor on Abby's current position according to her ~Where's Abby~ chart, as I remember where she is, I click on animate, move my cursor back which becomes her boat and slowly move the cursor towards Cape Horn mimicking her movement which will about half the distance to the cape in the next week. You can see the different wind directions she will be encountering and it's fun to imagine which way she will sail through it. At times she will be using all points of sailing: closed-hauled, close reach, beam reach (potentially the fastest point of sailing), broad reach and maybe even run. For those of you like me, who didn't or don't know these terms, Abby does use them, and it's worth it to look them up. Adds to the experience.
Have fun!
Go Abby Go!! :-)
ReplyDeleteGreat job, you're an inspiration.
ReplyDeleteHi dear Abby,
ReplyDeleteLooks like the weather is changing for you now. Continue to be safe. Also enjoy your adventure.
@Roski 9:52 AM
Thanks sooo much for the info at Passageweather.com. I had been to the site before but didn't understand it. You have really helped me.
God speed Abby and my prayers are with you always.
Clare, Spokane, Wash.
Hi Abby, I am so glad to see that you are doing so well. I have been out of town and have not been able to follow your journey. Keep up the good work, we are all proud of you. Gail/Ventura
ReplyDeleteGo Abby Go. Two weeks from the Horn...Be safe as you cruise south...Praying for your safety..
ReplyDeleteGary & Jan
Savannah,Ga
Hey Abby - We're local from Redondo Beach, but I'm sure we're not the only family who discusses your latest blogs over dinner each night. As the Mom, my family thought I was nuts to be so into your trip, but now they are too! I might be 50+ years old, but adventure has never left my heart. I don't know a thing about sailing, but I learn something interesting each week in your blogs. Best of all, I love the fact that people all around the world are sharing a common interest in your adventures - you must feel honored.
ReplyDeleteYou are on our nightly prayer list, and we know that God will keep you safe! The Dreiling Family
Hello Abby!...
ReplyDeleteJessica Watson's Granny and Grandad here. (Tom & Billie Watson from Waikanae, North Island, New Zealand)
We have decided to 'break silence' to say hello to you. Although we follow your trip and your postings all the time, up till now we have felt it appropriate to stay in the background. We check on your progress every single day, (right after checking on our Jess) and read your words and fan's replies with great interest.
Dear Abby, be assured that you; with your sweet, expressive, and pretty face, and gentle but brave spirit have become very important to us and I believe to many people around the world. I (Granny Billie) pray for you and Jessica every day, and especially in the night when I wake and wonder where our two girls are and whether they are content and comfortable. We am so grateful for all the faithful people who are praying Our Lord's protection and blessings over both of you. We are also delighted that you too, have an internet family who are united in following and supporting you in your courageous undertaking.
We hope that you and Jessica will have the opportunity to actually meet one day as you have so much in common and are both such an inspiration to young and old. The world needs hero's such as you two so very much!
As you progress on down towards 'the Cape' I continue to believe in your safety and well being, covered as you are by the Mantle of the Lord and assisted by your Guardian Angels. As I write this I am mindful of the beautiful prayers that Michael of Kingwood always ends his correspondence to you and Jess with.
Godbless and claiming Psalms 91 and 139.
Granny Billie & Grandad Tom W
Just joined your blog Abby and can't wait to read more from you. Be safe and enjoy the ride.
ReplyDeleteHey Captain Abbey, So great to hear your only 2000 miles until the horn. I trust you will have wind.Happy your team is keeping you save. How will you celabrate ?oh my ,a little early perhaps to think about. Keep the wind behind your back and you will always be dancing with the stars. Sandi on the chesapeake
ReplyDelete@ RichieParis...
ReplyDeleteHave you been following Groupama 3?
http://www.cammas-groupama.com/en/
It looks like your countrymen are back on track to take out the Jules Verne Trophy.:)
@ Roski... for a non-sailor that was pretty bloody good mate!
Hi everyone,
ReplyDeletePlease excuse me on my last post I referred incorrectly to a post at 7:36AM, the post I was referring to was the post at March 15th at 11:49PM.
Please forgive me anonymous @7:36AM. I am truly sorry. Abby please accept my apology as well.
Regards all,
Cheryl
Abby, you have us on pins and needles. How about updating us a little more often. EVERYDAY would be nice. If you can't do it, have mom or dad help.
ReplyDeleteHey good lucky Abby... A big hug from Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
ReplyDeleteHi Abby, good luck going around Cape Horn when you get there. The weather south of the Cape can be quite exciting! You have a great many people cheering you on. Don and Doris, Landlocked Adventurers in Livonia, Michigan, USA.
ReplyDeleteCheryl in San Diego,
ReplyDeleteThank you for your reply to @anonymous.
Abby,
You're in all our prayers. Stay safe and God speed.
Jim
GREAT JOB ABBY!!
ReplyDeleteThanks Roski for the info on the passageweather.com.
Abby you are allowing a lot of people to fulfill their dreams through yours!
Ross
So. San Fran, Ca.
Abby, I love reading your posts, thanks for all the updates. You are a courageous young lady and an inspiration to many people. We are all praying for your safe journey. Be safe and make sure you are clipped in when on deck. God Bless.
ReplyDeleteJoe