Things have been going well out here. Unfortunately, I don't have very steady wind but I'm still managing to make some progress. Its starting to get really cold! Its still quite possible that I'll be up on deck reading a book when rounding Cape Horn, but I'm beginning to think that while out there I'll be in an Eskimo suit...not a swim suit.
I was surprised by how fast the temperature changed. Just two days or so ago it was nice and warm but all of a sudden it got right down to 60F. Its not just the temperature that has changed. Everything around me from the constantly breaking waves to the grey sky is different. Not more than three days ago there was still the bright blue water, clear sunny skies, and warm wind. Things may not have started to roar the minute I entered the 40s but the past few days have made it evident that I'm in them.
Its cold, and rather then everything being bright blue as it had on the equator, everything has now turned grey. Its an all together less inviting sight than the equator, but its exciting and it feels like I'm really getting into my trip now.
I've spent the day checking up on things; belts, filter, lines, and sails. I did a little housework as well. I cleaned out the cupboard under the sink, pulled out some warmer clothes so they're easy to get to when I need them, and checked out all three of my heaters to make sure they're working. I've also been working on drying out my boots. They got soaked inside and out so while covered from head to, well, ankle, in foulies my feet have been very uncomfortable when I'm outside!!
I've been keeping the boat closed up tight and compared to outside its very warm (I'm not sure the temperature outside, my thermometer is down below). With the companionway door closed the windows fog up and the roof is wet from condensation. I usually leave the one little window above my bed open. It does let in a little cold breeze but I'd rather a cold breeze than suffocating. I have had quite a bit of time to think out here. Suffocating would be a pretty miserable ending to my trip so I'm really very happy to put up with a little cold air!
I know a lot of you are watching the wild weather that is brewing down here. More on that tomorrow.
Abby
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Glad to hear that you are paying close attention to routine maintenance and things are going well. Watching your progress from Canada as well as that of Jessica Watson. Have fun and stay safe !!! John
ReplyDeleteAbby, you say "I have had quite a bit of time to think out here." I am curious how the trip has both challenged and enhanced your faith.
ReplyDeletePraying for you.
The change is well reflected in your telling.
ReplyDeleteThere has been a significant temperature difference here, too. Couldn't be called the roaring 40's though. Students emerging from parked cars to class in short shorts, flip flops, and colorful tank tops. It was almost too hot down in Oxnard. Comfy, low 80's in T.O. A little Santa Ana. The redbud tree is beginning to show itself.
Mornings have gone from the high 30's to the low 60's in one day.
Love the anticipation and excitement in your "voice". I, too, sleep with the window by my bed open. I need to keep in touch with the outside at least through the nostrils. The rest of me is tightly covered when its cold.
What comes across is your readiness for change on many levels. Like playing tennis with an opposing football team. Each player charging with a racket. Better shorten this. You're way too busy to read. With you in spirit.....
Hi Abby,
ReplyDeleteWe follow your blog everyday. I am making corned beef & cabbage in my crock pot for St Patrick's Day tomorrow, wish we could share it with you. We are so proud of you and your quest. God Bless and Smooth Sailing...
Bill & Colleen
Hey Abby,
ReplyDeleteKeep up the blogging...we all can hardly wait for your next. By the way, you're a pretty brave girl, girl! Rock on!
Charlie C
Hi Abby , Glad to hear that you are paying close attention for everything .. the weather in this area will changes every minutes .. ihave been in this area for so many times .. Have fun and stay safe - enjoy your day .. PS
ReplyDeleteGo Abby!! I am so excited for you! Keep the faith and steady as she goes. Best wishes and all our prayers from Cenral California. Still watching your progress daily Question: How did you prepare for being alone at sea for so long? Did you complete a few week long practice runs? Either way you are an inspiring individual. Best Regards
ReplyDeletePaul D, Clovis CA
Abby,
ReplyDeleteYou rock!!! Keep up the good work!!!
03-16-10 @ 23:52
ReplyDeleteHi Abby:
Well I’m glad to see that you’re getting the weather that you’ve been wanting. That’s good that you did some preventive maintenance and also got some warmer gear out. I guess you can stash the swim suit away in the back of your locker…lol.. You won’t be needing that for awhile, just the Eskimo suit.
Yes Abby, definitely keep a window cracked to vent out the cabin. It also makes for better sleeping. Sounds like your heaters are putting out some good heat. Jessica’s heater died on her and I don’t think she ever got it working again. Thankfully she doesn’t need it now.
You can always throw on another layer of clothes.
That’s strange how everything has changed so quickly within three (3) days, it just sounds nasty.
Sorry to hear about the boots, I hope you can get them dried out quickly. Did you not bring a second pair, shoot, that’s gonna be rough on your feet. Yeah, I’ll bet that’s uncomfortable….Not funny!!!!!
You might not want a lot of condensation building up in the cabin, that’s not good for your lungs. You’d be constantly breathing warm damp air, not good, not good.
But you’re thinking of the dangers of a closed cabin, so just be cautious.
@ Anonymous March 15, 2010 11:49 PM:
I can appreciate your comments as to someone having a crack at Jessica, but I, as many, many other Americans, have followed Jessica since before she sailed out of Sydney Harbour. We do admire Abby, and I love both of these girls for their tenacity, personality and courage, so therefore I take offense when you categorize all the ‘Yanks’ as the guilty party. Address the individual who made the remark. And you don’t have to hide behind ‘anonymous‘. Now who’s ‘demeaning’ themselves.
Take good care of yourself and the crew, be safe, and good luck in this nasty stuff.
I’m very proud of you Abby, keep up the good work.
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.
Your faithful friend, fan and follower.
Michael (75) from Kingwood, WV
Bonjour Abby & Wild Eyes,
ReplyDeleteKeep warm, Stay dry, Be safe.
Stay safe, girl!
ReplyDeleteHi Abby,
ReplyDeleteI was pleasantly surprised to see another blog from you today. I'm sure you are busy at times and don't get around to it, but I (as I know others do) thoroughly enjoy all your news. After this latest blog I do have a question for you. DO you REALLY have an Eskimo suit with you? LOL! Just kidding, but keep the faith and keep on truckin'. And again, may God keep your sails full!
From the Black Hills of South Dakota.
Welcome to the Roaring Forties Abby. If you like this, you're gonna LOVE the Furious Fifties.
ReplyDeleteStay safe out there and we'll all get through this, and around the Horn together. Sounds easy doesn't it....HA!
I hope your boots are beginning to dry. Cold wet feet can really ruin one's day.
AS always, you are in our prayers.
God speed captain.
Jim
Phoenix
Hi Abby,
ReplyDeleteI am enjoying reading all about your amazing adventures out at sea. I grew up sailing too with my dad in Long Beach, CA. He taught me so much, especially how to sit on the lower side, not the high side when the boat was healing so when I needed to throw up it wouldn't all spray back into the boat. Hahaha.. Yep, he was a funny guy. I miss those great trips to Catalina Island too! I am so proud of you for going after your dreams. I look forward to reading how you are doing and I pray for your safe return back to California.
Sincerly, Alyssa (Irvine, CA.)
Glad to see you're doing well Abby! I love hearing of your awesome adventure! Keep up the good work and stay safe and warm!
ReplyDeleteExcellent work today Abby. Good planning in your mind. Keep a sharp weather eye and godspeed.
ReplyDeleteHi Abby!!! You are doing a fantastic job, keep warm and dry. Remember I told you on Valentines Day, you would be cool enough soon enough. Our prayers are with you! Bob O Redondo Beach CA.
ReplyDeleteDear Abby, it is really nice to hear from you...a young lady doing what you most wanted to do and experiencing what you couldn't describe if you weren't right where you are - doing it. Thank you for every piece of detail and every feeling/thought you feel like sharing with a very interested world audience.
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad it's not that cold here anymore. XD And I have to agree, being able to breath is a lot better then being a little cold. Just make sure you don't freeze to death or that will defeat everything. What your doing is awesome and I'm defently going to check back on you daily. ^_^
ReplyDeleteHi Abby;
ReplyDeleteWe're so glad you had as much warm weather as you have had. The good news is that the number of weeks the weather will be cold is really limited to heading north past the Falklands after you round the Horn.
So glad too that you are right on top of maintenance - we can't imagine all of a myriad of details that involves, but from your blogs we believe!!!! Have you had an opportunity to inspect all your stays and sheets for fraying and weakness? And have you been able to climb to the top of the mainmast to make sure all is well? As an old sailor, I hope so.
We're also so glad your health is holding up good; the good part is that there can't be too many diseases that could survive so far out to sea. Your're one tough cookie Abby!!!!
Great thinking to get your warm clothes where you can reach them! We know you are as ready as you can be. Don't worry 'bout school work - -that will be possible after you return to warmer more settled weather. Your and Wild Eyes' safety are MUCH more important. We hope the love and good wishes we have for you will help bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart.
With that, much love and all our prayers
John and Louise
What an exciting experience! I can't wait to hear what's next!
ReplyDeleteAbby,
ReplyDeleteYou go girl!
Watching your progress is awsome, the courage that you have shown us is superhero. Going to sea for a weekend can be tough, but around the world...alone...WOW!!!
God Bless & fair seas
your fans,
Mike,Koki,Ryan & Sky Hall
Well...sounds like it's almost time for the Diver's Dry Suit!
ReplyDeleteGood Morning Captain,
ReplyDeleteThanks for taking the time to share your day with us Abby....well written.
Regards your weather report...today we had more signs of spring's arrival here ....wave after wave of Canada geese in V formation high above returning to the north...a beautiful sight over the lake. It sounds like you are prepared for any immediate change in your conditions there.
Happy St. Patrick's Day to everyone. Abby O'Sutherland....will you and your crew be wearing green today? Clip on if you're doing a jig up on deck.
Stay safe....big hug
john, Bay of Quinte, Lake Ontario, Canada
Hi Abby,
ReplyDeleteSounds like things are going well for you...well, except for your wet boots. Hopefully you'll be able to dry them out....soon! Also hope you are adjusting to the cooler (colder?) temps. Hope you have lots of hot chocolate (or your favorite hot drink) to enjoy along the way!
I always love to hear from you. You're a brave young lady, well prepared, and ready to take on the challenge of sailing around the Horn. OK dear one --keep alert, sail smart, sail safe!
GO GIRL
Blessings,
Janell in Oklahoma, USA
You have made about a zillion people Google "The Bloop". Let us know if you hear anything. :-0
ReplyDeleteLooks like a low sitting right in the middle of the Drake Channel but not doing much. Stay warm; clip on.
Hi Babsy,
ReplyDeletehave you seen or heard a roaring foarty?
It looks like you've got quite some rocks on board. At least everybody seems to be talking about them rocks... I am curious as to what you do with them rocks?
I guess you are glad to be out of them Dollydrums.
Don't suffocate on the way to the horn!
Keep up them dodgers,
Jony the Pony
Hi Abby I haven't commented in a while but have been following your blog.I have quite a little prayer list going these days and you are on it.
ReplyDeleteSail on sweetie..... xx
Hey Abby, You got to get your boots dry before you really need them, also there is something else in keeping that window open is good also for your electronics, need to be dry to work properly and you do not need moisture messing those up.....Stay Safe and Warm..38º44"N/122º676"W
ReplyDeleteAbby,
ReplyDeleteRemember the saying "cold hands, warm heart"? The same goes for cold feet. But then again when you keep your head and your feet warm, the rest of you is warmer too. Well, Happy St. Patrick's Day to you. May the leprechauns treat you well. It seems each day brings a new adventure for you, and we hope you are reading "The Hobbit" still, as it lends imagination to any adventure one is on. Stay connected to your boat as you enter these more "exciting" waters. Don't let the gray bother you, it is just preparing you for a strong mindset for the challenges ahead! Stay strong... we're all behind you!
Kelly and Dave from Santa Clarita
Hi, it would be great if you could add a GPS track to your blog, so we know where you are.
ReplyDeleteCheers
David.
I usually leave the one little window above my bed open.
ReplyDeleteAustralian Detox
Hope you're ready for the air temp to drop lower still - and the sea temp! What clothing systems are you using? Lots of people who've raced through the southern oceans have been sponsored by companies that specialise in heavy duty kit - is there a particular brand that you're using?
ReplyDeleteVronnyRocket
Hi Abby,
ReplyDeleteThis is my second posting to you and I want you to know how avidly I am following your progress.
I look forward to your blogs and the little map, as you crawl towards the bottom of the world.
I am sure you are getting plenty of advise from your team about keeping dry and warm and well ventilated, so Im not worrying about that.
I do want to say, however, that your trip is bringing a large number of different people from all over the world together, all sharing the same best wishes for you, being positive and supportive for you, and thats the best human nature possible.
As I said before, positive happy news is a welcome change!!
So stay well, keep safe and enjoy your trip, knowing you are in the thoughts of many.
Best wishes from new Zealand,
Richard
Hi Abby,
ReplyDeleteHow quick the weather changes. Hope you dry your boots out soon and the weather doesn't get to bad. You will soon be around the Cape.
All the best.
Joy
Ballarat
Australia
Abby, you are doing great! What an experience this must be. I can only imagine. Keep up the great work. Definitely want to keep those feet warm and dry! Happy sailing!
ReplyDelete-Bryan (Richmond, VA)
Abby, you are doing great! What an experience this must be. I can only imagine. Keep up the great work. Definitely want to keep those feet warm and dry! Happy sailing!
ReplyDelete- Bryan (Richmond, VA)
Hi Abby,
ReplyDeleteFirst of all GREAT job to date. Your are helping some of us focus on something other than work and give us a bit of an adventure at the same time. The history of both Shackleton and Amundsen points out the change in the weather in that area in just hours. At the same time it gives us a look at planning and how much it can mean in the end. Coming out of the Weddell sea we hit some storms that were ones for the books. I know you will be well to the North but the effects are wide. Enjoy the adventure, know many of us are riding along with you. Less than 100 years ago we would only know of what you did when you returned to tell the story. Today it is almost hour to hour. I for one check-in every 12.
Sail Safe
from the Deserts of Iraq
around 34-40-20N x 043-33-00E
Dearest Abby,
ReplyDeleteEwww, squelchy boots!! You poor thing, I hope that you can get them dry soon. A suggestion Abby, but not sure if you have newspaper. Roll up the newspaper and pop it inside the boots (after removing excess water). It will help dry your boots out. Don't want you catching a chill. I'm pleased that your heaters are working.
It's a shame you don't have a dehumidifier to dry out your cabin, or have a demister like in a car on your windows. I'm full of bright ideas aren't I. :-)
Well my dear, you're sailing along beautifully. Keep safe and warm and God Bless and big hugs from Jan Pace (Auckland, New Zealand)
Hi Abby,
ReplyDeleteI hope you are okay. From what I have read about you, you have a lot of sailing experience and you can handle this, yes it gets scary at times but you have the ability to do this. Your Dad and Mum believe this also, why else would they support your dream (adventure). Stay Safe, keep to your plans. My thoughts are with you and I (we) want and pray for your safe completion of your adventure. Pete.
Well the cape is a nice milestone, so ya should be feeling good about it!
ReplyDeleteAbby,
ReplyDeleteI was just thinking how amusing it was that 60 is cold to you when here in south western Ohio 60 feels warm this time of the year. We actually made it to that yesterday, and the second week of softball practice is well underway.
It is great to know you have had time to go over everything and double check your checklist. I don't remember you mentioning one, but I am certain that you do somewhere. To easy to forget something "little" that could end up being a rather large problem later.
Your adventure is a living book that we can't wait so see what happens next. Until the next chapter is written, know you are in our thoughts and prayers for continued safe travel.
Jeff
hello abby, I hope all is well with you, however, you are getting your readers a little confused, one minute you say " it got right down 60F" next minutes in the same blog you say that you cannot tell the temp because your thermometer is "down below" can you please clarify?
ReplyDeletefair winds
( sorry it will have to be anonymous as i dont have a google account)
Viv
03-17-10 @ 06:24
ReplyDeleteHi Abby,
Just checking to see if there was any news so I figured I’d say hello anyway….‘Hello’ and Good Morning. I hope the wind has picked up some for you, I just checked P/W and it doesn’t look like much wind, and what there is looks rather erratic. But hopefully that will all get straightened out and you’ll get your share and make better progress. Hope you’re staying warm and dry. Now’s the time when you should be drinking lots of water, I know it’s not easy when your cold to drink cold water, but I would imagine you could warm it up. As long as you get some liquid in you, that’s what counts….Yes..???
@ Billie and Tom: I know you don’t like to break silence, but I thought that was a kind and thoughtful post that you sent Abby. I was very happy to read it (since I also follow Abby). Take care and God Bless You. I hope all is well with you both.
I was glad to see that you’re in such good spirits, I should have known you would be now that you’ve got a little challenge out there.
Keep up the good work Abby, and take good care of yourself and the crew.
Looking forward to 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.
Your faithful friend, fan and follower.
Michael (75) from Kingwood, WV
Hi Abby:
ReplyDeleteThank you for the update.
NOW THIS IS THE 40’S, love the way you said that!
And WELCOME to the 40’s, sounds like you are getting a little bit excited and that’s good don’t want to get bored huh. You are a very disciplined young lady with your boat and I applaud you for that. I wish you had a scuba diver’s wet suite; you may have one I hope so it keeps you warm when you get wet, I used to ware one when diving deep and you know better than I when you go topside in the next couple of months your gonna get soaked. Again thanks for the GOOD explanation of your world in the 40’s, as every one says we love hearing from you.
Happy sailing.
papaw
Abby
ReplyDeletethanks for the update ... sending you warm vibes ... and hoping they will help to keep you warm!
I moved from Canada to Australia to get warm .. it worked (well most of the time).
Fair winds & Seas ... stay clipped on
Bruce S/Sydney
Do you feel closer to God out there in the wind and the waves about you? God comes close to us in the stillness...just remember that he will also be there in the storms when they do come.
ReplyDeleteHi Abby From Key West! Chilly here too with lows expected in the 50's tonight. My thoughts are constantly with both you and Jess out in the middle of different oceans. Can you estimate the wave heights for us? And also discribe your sail changes as the wind kicks up? Sure hope those boots dry out soon! Michelle
ReplyDeleteThanks Abby
ReplyDeleteTake care
Be prepared
Luv u
Richard (QLD) Aus
We had beautiful blue skies here in the Lakes yesterday. Now..light rain and grey skies. Our weather is as changeable as yours Abby but at least the rain is bringing the flowers into bloom a bit sooner. Have you tried stuffing your boots with dry papers? That will absorb the wetness quicker. Just a thought.
ReplyDeleteKeeping you in my prayers and wishing you a safe but exciting journey ahead.
Jeanie in the Lakes.
Hi Captain Abby, Good work on being
ReplyDeleteproactive about the maintenance.
It will keep you safe.
60 degrees is not too cold,
but with the wind chill factor
and the ocean spray it probably
feels more like 50 degrees.
Glad you have your heaters.
Stay Warm! Be Safe! Godspeed!
Hi Abby!
ReplyDeleteI've discovered the best trick for drying out shoes that are wet inside: newspaper. I don't know if you have any newspaper or anything like it lying around, but if you stuff it inside the boots, they'll be dry in no time!
God bless,
Sarah
Lewisville, TX
Hello Abby, Grey seas and sky are so menancing and dreary. Keep up the preventive maintenance as a diversion from feeling grey yourself!!! You are up for challenges at this point. Wish us commentors could jump aboard and assist. Thanks for the great updates. LOL, Grandmom, Patricia and granddaughter, Courtney, 13.
ReplyDeleteIf it's any consolation, the tall ship Europa is right now at the Horn. While the seas and wind seem scary, the temps. are good in terms of things freezing. That and should be a bit comforting to know there's some activity at the place particuarly another sailing vessel with warm bodies on board. :-)
ReplyDeleteTall Ship Europa (Netherlands)
60 meter steel-hulled bark
Last reported at 2010-Mar-17 06:00 UTC. Time now 2010-Mar-17 12:21 UTC.
Position S 56°36', W 066°42'.
Length 56 m; beam 8 m.
Wind from 270 at 45 knots
Waves 9.0 meters (30 feet), 8 second period
Barometer 977.2 mb
Air temperature 5.0 ° C
Dewpoint 3.3 ° C
Water temperature 6.8 ° C
such an adventure..It is amazing one that most everyone will never make. Thankx for sharing yours. be carefull.
ReplyDeleteway to go Abby. Stay strong and focused and you will be back in the beautiful weather before you know it.
ReplyDeleteCouldn't agree more, cool air is much better then no air.
keep kicking butt
Keep warm Abby and stay safe. Each time I have sailed in storms or rough seas it has been preparation and sound gear that made it easier to deal with. With a good solid boat like Wild Eyes and a plan you can handle almost any weather. Smooth sailing and take care.
ReplyDeleteTonyF
Abby, A trick we used when I was a kid living in North Dakota was to wear cotton socks, plastic bags over that and then put on wool socks. Kept our feet warm even in 30 below zero weather. John
ReplyDeletehello:D
ReplyDeleteYou've got the cold and the wind, we woke up yesterday to a smallish earthquake. Centered in Pico Rivera it rattled the LA area as far out as out here in Upland/Ontario area.
ReplyDeleteAs you close in on the Cape, I'm reminded of a song by Sting called "Valparaiso" - youtube version here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3zzuWh1Fcn0
Calm seas and following winds - and don't work those angels too much!
Ed
Where is all the wildlife???? I would love to hear, or see (pics?), of any fish, squid, turtles, whales, or anything living in the sea that you have seen. To tell me the large expanse of the Pacific ocean is completely and utterly void of marine life? Thanks for allowing me to live vicariously through your journey. Journey, one of my favorite bands.
ReplyDeleteAbby, a simple rule of English: if two words are combined then use apostrophe.
ReplyDeleteit is -> it's (not its)
Psalm 91 Abby Girl!!!!
ReplyDeletePraying for you!
Lisa from Mt. Juliet, TN
Still tracking your posts your blog and progress on your website's map. It's wonderful!
ReplyDeleteRemember, Southern Californians have a goofy idea of "cold" weather! So make sure it doesn't surprise you. Haha! Have fun!
Hi Abby, Just a short note to say we are glad you are still making progress and to take care . As said above, condesation in the cabin would not be good. But... I am sure you and your team have covered all those things. We are very proud of you, young Lady and await you Blogs.
ReplyDeleteLuv Ya........Stay Safe
Blue Skies and Friendly Winds
Bud & Charla Winnett
Hope you are still enjoying "The Hobbit"
ReplyDeleteI read it when I was your age and it was so awesome! You will really enjoy visiting Oxford England someday when you are visiting your Grandmother and learning more about his friendship with CS Lewis and the Christian Theology that he uses as his thems in the Hobbit stories! Happy Sailing! We keep you in our prayers daily!
Glad to hear al is going well for you . . . well other than wet boots which hopefully will dry out soon!
ReplyDeleteThe weather here in NoCal has changed suddenly too . . . we went from waking up with frost on our windshields to temps in the 50s and then higher as the day wears on.
I'm sitting by the beach in Pacifica watching a few surfers in their wetsuits trying to find rides in the chopped up and quickly breaking waves. Yet as I look out at the water I think of you and your adventure! Such an awesome and wonderful thing to be doing.
It is good that you're paying attention to the daily details of keeping Wild Eyes in tip top shape.
Be safe . . . stay clipped in . . . and go like the wind!
Hi Abby
ReplyDeleteHappy St. Patrick's Day
Best wishes
Yea Abby!! good to see you are staying so prepared and on top of things! Signs of a Strong and Mature mind. How is your water tasting? I think of you daily and I just pray for God to constantly speak to you and hold you in his arms. Love Sunny Miller and The Aquafriends Group xoxo
ReplyDelete@ viv
ReplyDeleteAllow me.
"one minute you say " it got right down 60F" next minutes in the same blog you say that you cannot tell the temp because your thermometer is "down below" can you please clarify?"
I suspect the problem you are having is that you're thinking in minutes. :-) Abby said two days ago it was warm then suddenly it got right down to 60F. To me that drop in temp occurred two days ago or even yesterday. Not right now. Not right now (today) at time of writing because Abby can't give today's (at time of writing) temp reading as the thermometer is down below - or at least the read out is. Those two paragraphs relate to what she is or was doing today.
Not two days ago along with the temp at that time.
It can look disjointed in fact you might even glean Abby was writing, stopped attended to something then continued. I imagine she's quite busy out there. :-)
Go Abby!!! I hope you continue your awesome work!!!!!
ReplyDeleteAbby, thanks for the update. My wife and I check your site each and every day for news of your progress. Do you think you'll be in view of Jessica's boat when the two of you are in the same vicinity? Just curious.
ReplyDeleteWow, things really are changing down in the 40s. I was wondering when the cold would start. Hope you get those boots dried out soon. I'll have to have a look at my weather info later, to see what's coming up for you. Hang on and enjoy all you can.
ReplyDeleteI'll be hoping for a fair winds and following seas.
Catch you later Abby,
IndyMike
39*50'N, 86*9'W
Abby, I am so proud of the strength you have shown so far on your trip. You seem to have such a quiet, gentle disposition, yet have a very focused toughness on this adventure. I hope you are calmer than I am about your sail around the Cape coming up shortly. I pray that you have a safe passage around, enough to keep you excited but not too much for Wild Eyes to handle. I also think that as a Southern Cali girl you are going to be a hurting puppy when you experience the prolonged cold :-) Not going to be 70 degrees perfect weather all the time like in LA, while the rest of us in the country are freezing! You and Wild Eyes keep up the great work!
ReplyDeleteDwight in North Carolina
Anonymous said...
ReplyDeleteAbby, a simple rule of English: if two words are combined then use apostrophe.
it is -> it's (not its)
March 17, 2010 7:02 AM
Hey! Punctuaion police person! Get A life! Abby
doesn't need any negative feedback!
Hey what's the deal on canceling out on the swim suit promise? lol I was starting to think you were wanting to make it as hard as possible in line with the up-coming Bounty Boat crew's mindset.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.bountyboat.blogspot.com/
Thanks for blogging again so soon. As you get into weather, if we don't hear from you for a while, many of us will start to worry a little. I wonder how easy it is to type at a keyboard in 5 meter seas though? Hope the velcro holds.
That was very nice of Jessica's grandparents to comment yesterday. I'm sure you appreciated that.
On the wet boots: Change your socks often, that should help pull moisture from the inside. When I had the same problem on a motorcycle ride once, I wrapped my feet over the dry socks with handy-wrap. What a relief! Then the air dried the boots as I rode on. Remember air flow drys, and that would also be applicable to your high humidity concerns in the cabin. Because of your breathing, the humidity will always be higher inside. So it would probably be wise to wear more clothing and keep some outside air flowing through. Just my non-sailing opinion.
Glad to hear you have 3 heaters, smart move.
Still singing "Steady as she goes" by the Raconteurs.
You are doing a great job. I have been following your blog the entire way from DC and it is pretty exciting. Keep up the fantastic voyage! By the way what happens when you reach land after such a long trip of being in a sail boat for such a long time?
ReplyDelete@ Anon 5:39AM - 30ft @ 8 sec is NO fun.
ReplyDeleteFor the blog folks: Wave HEIGHT is only half the story...to get the other half you need to know the period (the time between peaks of the passing waves)
For example: 15ft waves at a period of 20 sec is one thing - but the same wave height at 8 sec is another.
Steve in California
hi jessica , just looking in from australia and you are doing well, keep warm and as dry as possible........a comment to an Anonymous, who cares if abby uses apostrophies of not , it isnt important, so I wont either....by the way could you sail the world single handed ? ?
ReplyDeleteAbby – my family has been following your journey every day and we can't wait until you post again. You are an amazing girl!
ReplyDeleteI look for your blogs every day to see how you are doing. You are one brave girl! I don't always write messages and I know there are many people following your story that do not write in. Good luck to you and can't wait to see how it finishes. I wouldn't have lasted 48 hours and I am a 40 year old woman. :)
ReplyDeleteAbby, can't wait to post a "Happy St. Patrick's Day" wish to you...for today is Wednesday, a Shamrock green kind of day. I am hoping you are seeing blue skies that is...thinking of you and wishing you the world!
ReplyDeleteHi Abby,
ReplyDeleteHave been keeping posted on you and Jessica and enjoy reading of your progress so far. You are both amazing young ladies. I hope you have dried out a little, one of the suggestions on socks and plastic sounded good I must remember that one. Not long now 'til you pass the horn, how exhilarating will that be! Take care and look forward to reading your future blogs....bye now safe sailing.....Barbara downunder
Wow, Abby, what a change! I could feel that cold breeze through your description... Interested to hear what you have to say next! Take good care out there and stay warm... Peace, Your Oklahoma Well-Wisher
ReplyDeleteAbby, thanks for the updates. Stay focused and work on staying dry. Keeping the cabin open a crack might not be the worst thing since it might help keep down the condensation. The change in temp and color should start to prep you for the Cape. Enjoy the warm 60s while you have them... Stay safe and take care.
ReplyDeleteDave in Annandale VA
hehehe...did it really take you such a long time to conclude suffocating is worse than breathing? :-)
ReplyDeleteThat's interesting in that since there's really no concept of time out there, now nearly 2 months on the water alone, is it the same as when someone sailing for such a long period, sits there mulling for two days whether to eat the last can of oranges, or the last can of pears. What will taste better today and if I eat it will I long for it later on, or if I eat the other that I know I won't long for later on, will it not taste the same because I would have preferred the first one and can't stop thinking about it :-)))
More seriously, and as grim as it sounds, the window above the bed, is it a pop up hatch type thing? Critical would be in the case of a knock down or worse roll over while sleeping, if that window is open and "clicked" or latched/locked open... or is it loose and would it automatically close down and seal itself even if unlatched still. Maybe figure out some shutting mechanisim of some sorts, don't lock it open, loosen it enough that any water pressure against it, closes and seals it, attach a rope to it so that you can yank it closed...something..if that is actually what we have been dwelling on.
Let us know how it goes.
cool. i hope you stay okey
ReplyDeleteT.C
Keep up the good work!! You will be around the Horn before you know it. Martin....Slippery Rock, Pa
ReplyDeleteHi Abby, ciao from Italy! Looking at your map i see you are very close to an italian friend who is performing the circumnavigation with his mini transat, his name is Alesssandro Di Benedetto (http://www.alessandrodibenedetto.net/) and his position at the moment is
ReplyDelete40° 00' 11"S 127° 41' 13"W
Maybe you can have a chat with him on the VHF!
Have a nice wind, Ciao from Salvo
Dear Abby,
ReplyDeleteI do apologize for misspelling your name last evening...that should have been "O'Sunderland" for St. Patrick's Day. Too many late nights commenting to you I guess....hehe.
I hope you're having a great day. Later,
john, Bay of Quinte, Lake Ontario, Canada
Hey Abby,
ReplyDeleteI've been following your blog since you left on your voyage and finally have time to post. What a great adventure you are on and how lucky you are to be able to realize your dream of sailing solo around the world. I look forward to following your blog until you are safely back in your home port (via Cabo, of course).
Take care and enjoy the experience.
Smooth sailing,
Nick
Sydney, Australia
Hola, Abby~
ReplyDeleteGreat updates! You sound well and I wish you the very best.
One question, and maybe another follower can answer...Your latest location mentions "The Bloop" are you talking about the strange sound picked up by NOAA? I have a curiosity thing and google any word I'm not sure of...so, I'm also still unsure about the Panov Seamount reference.
Keep praying, praising, and sailing! You're doing it!
~Breeze
I do not envy you at this point, Abby. Heading south while the sun is going north. It seems you will be on the bottom of the world while we have spring and summer. Although, one day while crossing a local bridge I saw the wind and waves on the St. John's River and told my wife I would love to be sailing. She said, 'In this cold?' to which I replied, 'Well, the Canadians don't wait for a warm day to go sailing!' Hope you have enough clothes to stay dry and warm, Abby. You will get to see ocean and weather many never will.
ReplyDeleteGood, Abby. Check everything.
ReplyDeleteWhen I am at home I leave the window over my bed open.
ReplyDeleteWhen I am on my boat I leave the porthole open above my bunk.
Abby grrrl,
ReplyDeleteCute pic all bundled up. Thanks. Echoing many of your fans' comments, do play it safe at all times, bad weather systems included. In the end, you will accomplish the circumnavigation sooner or later one way or another, so if avoiding unnecessary and somewhat unpredictable weather makes the whole trek longer, even by weeks, so be it.
SAFETY 1ST, SAFETY 2ND, AND SAFETY 3RD. After that, only then leave room for adventure thrills and/or even treating yourself.
Cheers!,
H.
Amsterdam
Netherlands
Hi Abby I just found you on the Passion of the sea website.Someone there was asking what we thought about you and your trip so I logged on your site and quite inpressed. My daughter put herself through fire collage here in Florida working for Sub Way she then put herself through nursing collage and now working in the ER at Shands she is getting married this month and she is puting her time to become a flight nurse. So I am proud of all you galls. I have a 26'sailboat I call the COCONUT RUM. I put my dirty towel in my wet boots then wash the towel later works for me.
ReplyDeleteHave fun
CoconutFun.com
hey Abby you seemed to be an adventure lover.great n lucky!! because you are doing the thing you love.well i am very sure that nothing will pull you back even if it wants to except your health so do take care.
ReplyDeletecarry on sweetie...
Abby, I have been following you since you began 2 months ago. I just wanted you to know that even though there a lot of us that don't get to write you a note every day, you are in our thoughts and prayers. Be Strong!
ReplyDeleteJan
Huntington Beach, CA
Dear Abby, I'm a grandma of 14 kids and I just want you to know I approve of your adventure. I'm praying that this sstorm is just one you will weather and sail on with your dreams. I will pray for your success, and we are all cheering you on. Grandma Carol !
ReplyDelete