Another cold, grey day out here - if 55 can be considered cold? I've got about twenty knots of wind, but am heading east and not heading there all that fast.
According to Commanders Weather, Tropical Cyclone Tomas merged with a cold front just east of the Dateline, became extra-tropical and expanded in size. 50-60kt winds and 30-40+ seas may be an experience, and Wild Eyes and I would come out alright, but its not worth risking my whole trip. On my current course his remains will pass well to my SW. I want to finish this trip the way I set out to do it, and that means playing it safe until I'm back. I'm sure I'll end up in some sort of big weather sooner or later but as I can avoid this one without going out of my way thats what I'll be doing.
I spent most of today outside going over things and getting everything in order. I'll be able to avoid the bulk of the storm but I'll still get some pretty big winds and seas from it. Its really amazing the weather down here. Not the weather that I'm in, but the systems and fronts, ridges and highs that are everywhere. Right now I am between a high and a low. When the wind shifts around to the SW again sometime tomorrow, I'll begin making my way SE again.
Last night I called home as usual, and this time the phone got passed around through my three younger siblings. Its nice to be able to talk to them, even though I can't understand much of what they're saying :) Benny said 'Hi' but then saw his blanket and ran off forgetting me, Lydia went on for a good long while, but I couldn't make out any thing she was saying... Little Katherine was a little more clear. I thought she found a frog... it turned out she found pencil...
Well, the satellite phone can be pretty annoying but its better then nothing!! I miss the little guys a lot. Its too bad I couldn't talk Katherine into coming with me!
Abby
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Skipper, thanks for the update in your quarter deck log, I am so glad that you will be able to avoid the bulk of the storm, yes don't take changes unless you have to and that is playing smart and safe. More power to you and keep having fun. Until next entry...
ReplyDeleteOld Salty USN(Ret)
Be safe! I hope the weather doesn't get bad at all! And 55 is freezing to me. 0.o
ReplyDeleteKeep up the great work Abby! You are an inspiration!
ReplyDeleteHi Abby - Thanks for the blogs and the great pics
ReplyDeleteRelax …Inhale… Listen to some good music……..
This is the continuation of the great Around the World Scotch Relay (AWSR) – to read Stages 1 thru 6 just scroll down to my next blog.
**** NEW ****
Stage 7 - Stryker the dolphin and his pod have been furiously swimming south to the Equator to meet
Flash-very large Blue Fin Tuna who was swimming with a school. The southern bluefin tuna, Thunnus maccoyii, it weighs up to 400 kgs or 882 lbs. They can swim 45-50 kts for long periods of time.
The southern bluefin tuna is classified as “Critically Endangered”. They patrol the “roaring 40’s” where Abby and Wild Eyes are now. Flash is the great grandson of Charlie the StarKist Tuna . Charlie was the mascot of the StarKist Company . He appeared in more than 85 commercials for StarKist . Charlie was the only tuna ever to have a corporate sponsor.
American hip-hop star Chali 2na chose his rap name by slightly modifying the name Charlie Tuna
Flash escorted Jessica Watson’s boat - Ella’s Pink Lady - down around Cape Horn. He loves stero music and he wants to do the same for Abby.
Flash met up with a very sober and tired Stryker - the bottle nose dolphin . The SSTS shows that Stryker has handed off the bottle of Scotch to Flash. Flash and his school are streaking south toward Abby and Wild Eyes. He will rendezvous with the final member of the Around the World Scotch Relay (AWSR) team
Stay Tuned …..
Abby – Our prayers and positive thoughts are with you especially now -in the roaring 40’s. May God hold you in the palm of His hand.
<*((((((>< Mariner Walt – Marina del Rey, CA
Thanks Abby.
ReplyDeleteKeep enjoying your sailing.
Luv
Richard (QLD) Aus
It is exciting to see your progress on the map and to read about your day. We all too would rather you play it safe. :) As a teacher, I'm proud to see someone have such lofty goals and then go for it. Keep safe and enjoy the trip. Godspeed Abby!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the update.
ReplyDeleteMore photos and videos when you can
all the best
glad you're playing it safe.
ReplyDeleteHi Abby. Live reading your new posts when younhave the time to write. Do you have a time frame as to when you will round the horn? Stay safe!
ReplyDeleteHi Abby and followers,
ReplyDeleteI always remind my guys of the title "Pilot in Command". It is good to see what the weather is doing and the support from the "Team" but in the end you are driving the boat and you will take all you are told and what you see to take the best course. Keep at it and thank you for the adventure.
Sail Safe
from the Deserts of Iraq
around 34°40'20"N x 043°33'00"E
Around the World Scotch Relay (AWSR)
ReplyDelete**** PRIOR STAGES *****
Stage 1 - After toasting Abby’s equatorial passage - a half bottle of Single Malt Scotch (Dalwhinnie) was dropped into the Pacific at Marina Del Rey, CA. The bottle is now on its way to Abby on Wild Eyes for her half of the celebration. The world’s first Scotch Satellite Tracking System (SSTS) is attached to the bottle.
Stage 2 - The bottle has drifted - as planned - into the path of the annual Gray Whale southern migration. This is the start of the Around the World Scotch Relay (AWSR).
The lead member – a baleen whale named Maxi is scheduled to pick up the bottle this evening. Don’t worry -Maxi is a teetotaler.
Stage 3 - The Scotch Satellite Tracking System (SSTS) shows that Maxi has indeed picked up the bottle of scotch and is heading south to Laguna Ojo de Liebre in Baja California (about 550 nm ) from Marina Del Rey, CA. Maxi is a bottom feeder but her pod does not stop too often during the migration.
With the bottle stashed in her baleen - she has to be wary of boats filled with thirsty whale watchers !
Stage 4_- The SSTS shows that Maxi is now in clean waters off the coast of Baja California about 300 nm west of the gray whale nursing grounds in Laguna Ojo de Liebre (Scammon’s Lagoon) – near the town of Guerrero Negro.
There are close to 2,000 whales and their new born calves in the lagoon. She has met up with two other pods (probably relatives) and has shown them the half filled bottle of scotch.
When the 3 pods turned east to the nursing grounds - Maxi sounded to transmit the bottle’s latest position to the SSTS.
Maxi made great time in the continued pursuit of Abby and Wild Eyes. She will now hand off the bottle of Dalwhinnie - to the next member of the relay team.
Stage 5 - Stryker, a large Common Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) and his pod have been patrolling the entrance to the lagoon waiting for Maxi. Stryker was the star performer at Sea World in San Diego. After each act he would be rewarded with some sardines laced with bourbon. He was so good that he was recruited by the US Navy and trained as an underwater scout. The Navy soon realized he was a totally dependent on alcohol. So they retired Stryker.
This explains why he was anxious to be part of the Around the World Scotch Relay (AWSR). Stryker retrieved the partially filled bottle from Maxi and is now on his way – heading south - racing toward Abby and Wild Eyes.
Stage 6 - The SSTS (Scotch Satellite Tracking System) shows Stryker and his pod streaking south at about 20 kts. along 123 . 26 W. Off the coast of Honduras he spotted the Red Rooster III a long range sport fishing boat out of San Diego bound for Clipperton Island.
The pod swam up to the boat dancing in the bow waves. Stryker - a spectacular aerialist – leapt and twirled with the bottle in his mouth. The fishermen were amazed.
Hoping to have the bottle opened by a fisherman, Stryker jumped onto the aft railing. But no luck - the fishermen just threw some live bait at the dolphins. Stryker then swam on – trying to catch up to Abby and Wild Eyes. He is approaching the next member of the relay team waiting near the equator.
Hi @STEVE - California
ReplyDeleteThanks for the 2 web sites that you posted. The original construction of BTC Velocity aka Wild Eyes. is very impressive.
In case anyone missed it the 2 websites provided by Steve are:
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ZIi2DVCfyKY/SzLwqDpvaJI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/bhPwJ6qTkOM/s1600-h/DSCN1700.JPG
and
http://www.aroundalone2002.com/
Thanks again @Steve
<* ((((((>< Mariner Walt – Marina del Rey, CA
Abby,
ReplyDeleteThat must have been fun to talk to Benny, Lydia and Katherine. Trust me, they miss you more than you know so I’m sure that it really meant a lot to them to just hear your voice. And I know it was great for you to hear them, even if they couldn’t give you any worldly advice. Just having that contact with them is so important to all of you.
By all means, take every precaution that you can to avoid the most intense weather. You will experience plenty of major challenges. You’ve got a tough stretch for the next several weeks, so minimize the severity of those challenges if you can. Remember, you’re not in a sprint, you’re in a marathon.
Be safe, take care of yourself and have fun, Abby.
From Seattle, WA, USA
SaltyDog
Abby, I hear confidence in your tone along with wisdom behind your decision to check everything...to go over everything...to secure everything...to determine how things are working at this point and what your game plan is...if this or that happens (go ahead...triple-check...do it once again just for us). It is so reassuring to hear that you have taken a healthy and deliberate "pause" and that Team Abby is keeping you out of the middle of this storm! The Cape promises not to go anywhere and with what I've seen being tracked online for wind/pressure/wave height, you will not be bored! I second the motion for you to make sure to stay hydrated. Now! You most assuredly were looking for exclamations from at least some of us when you referred to having your younger sister on board!!! Really! Let's hear that when you get home safe and sound. :) I just read a blog yesterday from a woman who just left Antarctica and another blog from another couple who were on a ship to/from Antarctica that, of course, travels north and south across Drake Passage. As if passing through Drake Passage without a nasty storm coming behind you and missing all the icebergs isn't enough to look out for! Many of us are praying day and night, Abby. Thank you for your very impressive post; we are right here anxious for every word from you. God bless you.
ReplyDeleteHi Abby, praying for fair weather sailing, you are amazing, my family asks me every day to give them an update on what you have been up to.... and start to stress when there is no new blog....
ReplyDeleteGood Girl Abbey,
ReplyDeleteStay on the safe side of safe. Above all, keep your cloths and boots dried out. Nothing worse or even dangerous when all is wet when it's cold. You will face challenging times now till you get past the cape. Keep your head and be careful.
Kindest Regards, from Australia
Bonjour Abby & Wild Eyes,
ReplyDeleteThanks Abby for the smart, short and sweet post.
Stay Warm & Dry, Take care, Be safe.
Better safe than sorry! Good on ya Abby Road!
ReplyDelete03-20-10 @ 02:22
ReplyDeleteHi Abby,
Glad to hear from you, and thanks for the up-date.
Looks like you have everything under control, and I feel that you made the right decision as far as the storms are concerned. The main objective is to finish the voyage and come home safely. Yes, that may be some experience, but if that storm grew that much there’s no telling what it may be like by the time you arrived. If I may say so “That’s using your head, Abby”. You see, that’s why I have so much faith in you…lol…
Just keep a sharp eye on Commanders Weather and it looks like they will advise you accordingly.
Glad to see that you have everything battened down and secure.
Take good care of yourself and the crew and good luck to you.
Look forward to your next post when you get a chance.
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,
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing tonight. I'm so happy to hear you talked with your family. You sound very positive and ready for the stormy conditions. I agree, stay away from those big swells if you can without getting too off course. Take care of yourself.
Alyssa
If push comes to shove and you have to run for safety, shoot the gap between the Horn and Isla de Los Estados then follow the coast for about sixty NM. There, at W65-13-42-24 and S54-38-13-92 you will find a safe haven.
ReplyDeleteYou'll be in offshore all the way there. You can anchor and wait out the current weather without affecting your journey.
Cheers
David
Dear Abby,
ReplyDeleteI can only imagine how excited your younger siblings are to hear from you! You are a role model for them, and have such an influence on them. I'm sure it must make you feel like family is close when you get to talk. We are happy to hear you've avoided some major weather challenges, and know that the path of least resistance is often the best, even if it means needing a little more patience...after all, you are doing what you truly love, and I'm sure each day holds a treasure of some sort. We are at peace knowing you are at peace.
By the way, recalling my 3rd grade lessons from the mid 1960's, I have to let you know that I now remember that the possesive form of "its" is "its", because if we said "it's" to mean belonged to "it", it would look like we were saying "it is" instead"...hoooboy, that was a mouthful. Anyway, my Eaglescout and Gold Award grown children would agree that proper English has "its" place, and "it's" gotten them through college,and onto successful careers, so I wanted you to have the same advantage. It's something that will be need in the future, even with your successes at sea!
Continue to keep your careful vigil, as God is also continuing his vigil over you. And keep having fun...also plenty of rest, fluids, and stretching those weary muscles. (We are the physical therapists!)
All the best...Fight On!
Kelly and Dave from Santa Clarita
Thank you for the post, Miss Abby.
ReplyDeleteWise choice to avoid the bad systems you can avoid. There will always be enoiugh of them you can't.
Your actual trip's conditions may not be very clear for the little ones, but it is nice to be able to chat with them at least a little.
Go on with the safety first option. What counts is to end your circumnavigation safe and sound, not to arrive two days or two weeks earlier. Good winds and enjoy your voyage, even in the cold and the swell!
Hi Babsy,
ReplyDeleteyes, surf them waves!
keep up them dodgers,
Jony the Pony
I wonder how come you blog? Do you have internet connection? Your life is so adventurous!
ReplyDeleteYou are one brave girl
ReplyDeleteHi Abby, Well the only real race is you getting around the globe in a safe and relatively sane, so staying away when there is no reason to mess with it before you will have to.Stay Safe,And Warm
ReplyDeleteHi Abby,
ReplyDeleteYour blog has redeemed the whole blogging entreprise for its nail-biting excitement and by offering your own unique perspective on an experience that few have undertaken. Even though living on the island of Ireland I must confess my 'sea-legs' at best are shakey, but its a joy to read your graphic updates on the voyage of a lifetime ! Trust that God will keep you safe in the palm of His hands and that you negotiate the Horn without too much excitement !
A well prepared sailor can sleep through a storm because they know everything is ship shape and tied down. Sounds like you could get some nap time in if the weather gets rough. Glad you are taking the precautions, Abby. Sail on!
ReplyDeleteGood Morning Abby,
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear "the youngest" of the Team Abby members at home are giving you advice by sat phone....even if it's not clear what they are saying....hehe. It sounds like you are planning your work and working your plan as they say...Abby you're doing GREAT!
Spring arrives here later today....yahoo!
Stay safe, john, Bay of Quinte, Lake Ontario, Canada
hey.
ReplyDeletei just started blogging, can you help me get some followers please. comment me back at whayasayinbruv.blogspot.com
Hi Abby,
ReplyDeleteG'morning to you. Sat. am here in Indiana. Nice post today, good update. Thanks. I think you're probably right-on trying avoid some big weather. I remember what 20'-30' swell did to my 40' launch in the Navy, so I can imagine it for you and Wild Eyes. I do envy you tho. Girl, you've got it going on. I hope you continue to enjoy it and have a great experience. No doubt, it'll carry the rest of your life. (I'm sure that 55* is definitely cold tho, after ~100*)
Take good care, I'll be watching for you later.
IndyMike
39*50'N, 86*9'W
Hi Captain Abby, Good decision
ReplyDeletechanging course and heading east.
It's best to play it safe
whenever you can. Well big sister,
your little sibs just adore you
and can't understand why your
not at home playing with them.
Very cute!
Be Safe! Be Happy! Godspeed!
Hi Abby... Thanks for a great post. Good that you can avoid the storm. It sounds like you have your head on straight. Safety first. We will be glad when you have past the Horn. May the good Lord watch over you. Luv Ya Stay Safe.
ReplyDeleteBlue Skies and Friendly Winds
Bud and Charla Winnett
So much for those extremely hot days huh? Be sure to get the sweater out! Haha
ReplyDeleteRock on Abby, Your boat is fast enough to avoid a lot of bad stuff. You have the right thought process to go the long haul, Wild Eyes and yourself will go through enough on this trip. The wear and tear of taking any storm head on isn't worth it. If you can avoid anything a little extra time going around will be worth it. Thanks so much for taking the time to write.Be safe foremost. And enjoy the ride.
ReplyDeleteI used to go to sea in a 548 ft., 7,390 ton war ship, and WE avoided seas like those when we could. Stay safe.
ReplyDeleteAbby would Skype work better? I am glad u called home... U be careful out there... Its warm here in Calif., omg, u would love it...
ReplyDeleteHi Abby, I have been watching your course and the storm heading towards Drakes Passage. I'm glad to hear that you’re letting it pass it looks bad. Keep warm, 55f and wind is coooold. You’re a smart girl and brave and I'm glad to see your bravery doesn’t cloud your smarts. Take care. TonyF – sailing the calm safe waters of the Chesapeake.
ReplyDeleteHi Abby
ReplyDeleteYou are getting into some precarious conditions and it is better to be wise and air on the side of caution. Even though you have every confidence in your abilities and 'Wild Eyes' strengths safety is paramount.
@Dane in Iraq- Keep safe keep cool.
Cheers
Evie from Bendigo
Hi Babsy,
ReplyDeletetell us about the life forms on board!
Give us some more pictures about you, the boat and the waves!
Hope you get to see some albertos and dollyfins!
keep up them dodgers,
Jony the Pony
Were all pulling for you Abby, and I see there are a lot of us asking God to keep an eye on you as well, so its just a matter of time. Keep up the "Great Work". Norm Strasser :-)
ReplyDeleteHi Abby,
ReplyDeleteI am so glad to hear that you are doing everything you can to avoid that monster storm. I saw it on passageweather, yikes. Avoidance without question is wisest thing to do. Gosh if it were up to me I would have you heave to until it was long gone.
Please prep on your prep if that makes any sense.
Abby we all have the greatest of confidence in you and Wild Eyes.
May God Bless you and keep you safe.
Cheryl
Hi Abby:
ReplyDeleteThank you, for the update and congrats on playing it safe!
Sailing around the cape is like playing chess, the decision you make now will have a big impact on what is coming later we know once you are committed there won’t be anywhere to run even if you could, you are very wise to time it just right Thanks team Abby for keeping on top of things for her.
Please sail safe.
Papaw
H229 & Mariner Walt: Glad you found the construction pics interesting!
ReplyDeleteDavid: Hey bud, with tight coordinates like that for a hidey hole THAT far away, there MUST be story behind it. Care to share?
A warm sailor is a happy sailor. Stay as dry as you can Abby.
Steve in California
@David: Cozy spot, but I think I'd rather be just up the way a bit at W65 14.3962 S 54 38.3407, just off the beach.
ReplyDeleteNow I gotta know the back story!
Steve in California
Abby,
ReplyDeleteWhat kind of heater(s) are you using? Do you use a desicant to keep the moisture down? I hate it when stuff drips off the cabin.
Stay safe - enjoy your blog
Linnea
Abby-girl! Thanks for the pics and the blog. As a woman/girl, I'm so proud of you. Your writing from a place of comfort, poise, and confidence, in spite of being soaking wet!
ReplyDeletePrayers are following you as you have the adventure of a lifetime! Go, Abby, Go!
Melanie in Torrance
Hi Abby,
ReplyDeleteNice blog and description about your nice sailing "trip.As a former naval officer, I am following your progress with big interest. I wish You a safe and good sailing and will be following your progress.
Greetings from the Aaland Islands in the middle of the Baltic Sea.
Ove/OH0JN
Happy Equinox Abby! ... Here comes Spring for me and Autumn for you. If you were on the equator, the sun would be straight up. Of course this happens because our axis is on a tilt, so the poles take turns leaning towards the sun.
ReplyDeleteTo visualize earth's orbit I tell friends this story. See if you like it.
Using the scale of a one foot diameter globe,
sun is 2.2 miles away and 110 feet in diameter. Imagine standing on the sun (DON'T imagine that you're turning to a crisp), and look at earth. It's over 2 miles away and the size of a basketball. A mere speck which you would not be able to see without binoculars. Earth with moon which is 30 feet away and the size of a softball travels 200 feet a day in its orbit.
For you grammar academics, "its orbit" is correct right? Rather than "it's orbit". I always say to myself if I can say "it is" then I add the apostrophe. I understand possessive like Bob's car but I don't think orbit qualifies as possessive in this case. As Bill O'Reilly would say (not that I watch him that often :-), "Am I wrong?".
First day of spring greetings from Frog Hollow Farm. I'll be watching your progress and thinking of you - keep safe!
ReplyDeleteCommand decisions of a Captain, and forever the Big Sister!
ReplyDeleteHi Abby, You are looking good, I loved the pictures. You are doing good, it sounds cold to me. Just have fun, you are a great inspiration to us all. My prayers and thoughts are always with you. Gail/Ventura
ReplyDeleteThanks for the update Abby,
ReplyDeleteYou are very wise keeping away from the storm as much as you can. A cyclone crosses the Qld coast this morning, still not sure how much damage it has caused.
Keep safe,
Joy
Ballarat.
Australia.
You are smart to Play it safe Abey! Stay clear of dangerious weather.
ReplyDeleteDon't put yourself in harms way.
CAZ
03-20-10 @ 19:45
ReplyDeleteHi Abby,
Just thinking about you, and wondering how you’re doing? The weather doesn’t look very nice down around the cape, as per the P/W chart. I just thank God that you’re as qualified as you are. That way I won’t worry a whole lot, just a half a lot…..lol… I do, I do.
I didn’t mention in my last post, but I was glad to see that you had a chance to talk with your sisters and brother. I imagine it’s a little difficult for them to understand exactly what you are doing and where you are. I’ll bet they’ll be happy when you get back home. Big Sis!!!
Not pressing you for a blog, I know you’re very busy, but it will be nice to hear how things are going for you, when you are able to get a blog out.
Try to stay dry and warm, eat and drink liquids when you can, and be cautious.
Take good care of yourself and the crew 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.
Your faithful friend, fan and follower.
Michael (75) from Kingwood, WV
You should be hearing The Bloop soon? - Good lesson, thanks; it's clear now and properly filed in its reference folder too.
ReplyDeleteBest tonight was the comment/advice to "prep on the prep"...now that makes some serious sense! Bigtime.
Now we can go back to worrying about those Cabo san Lucas spiders. They should be hatching out about now? Keep sailing Abby, we are always with you gal.
Abby - Have you noticed if your dreams have changed? Do you sleep just as if you were home? I would enjoy learning this if you needed a topic to post.
ReplyDeleteTake care.
Dear Abby,
ReplyDeleteYes, I agree that 55 sounds very cold especially with the wind you're having.
It's nice that you got to visit with your family. I'm sure they are very special to you as you are to them. Give that cute, fuzzy animal that I saw there a hug when you need one.
Hugs from me to you also. Praying that you will have fair winds. Stay warm and safe and enjoy your adventure.
Clare, Spokane, Wash.
Quite sensible Abby. You'll be lucky if there isn't a weather beating or two that you can't avoid, no need to go out looking for them! There's a difference between being strong enough to survive a storm (both you and Wild Eyes) and having to survive and then being able to continue on your journey with enough things intact.
ReplyDeleteAs for the 50s being cold, no doubt if you're in weather that's colder than that, you'll be somewhat grateful for the 50s! I'm always surprised how a particular temperature in autumn (fall) seems cold to me when the temp is on the way down, but come spring, when the temp starts going back up again, the same temp seems warmer!
Stay safe and dry.
Cheers
Toni
Abby good move to travel safe,the goal is the goal
ReplyDeletesmooth nights,fast days,safe journey
scott
Wow, you're sailing around the world? That's amazing; good luck!
ReplyDeleteI think what your doing is amazing and you are a very very brave young woman!
ReplyDelete:)
I myself want to travel one day! So I am glad I came across your blog to learn about your travels!
ReplyDeleteAbby, how is it going? How are you doing?
ReplyDeleteHey Abby
ReplyDeleteSailing solo, non-stop, unassisted around the world is a good enough adventure. 99.999% of the populaton will never get to do that. That's impressive enough without adding extra storms to sail through.
You're doing great. Keep up the good work.
C. Queensland Australia
Hi Babsy,
ReplyDeletekeep up them dodgers,
Jony the pony
Keep up the good work ABBY,
ReplyDeleteYour doing so good.My dreams are to do theHorn one day so let us know how it is,lol
take your time and be safe.
Have fun and keep us posted Skipper.
Gods with you and keeping you safe.
Your friends from North Carolina
Hello Abby:
ReplyDeleteI've been following your progress on your blog and website. We are pulling for you. You got this! Jay Kragh
Abby,
ReplyDeleteI’ve been watching some of the weather websites and it appears that there is quite a series of lively weather systems lined up in your part of the world. I hope you’re able to dodge the worst of it. I’m sure looking forward to your next update to hear how you’re doing.
Your website has turned into quite a classroom, Abby. We’re getting a bit of grammar lesson regarding the use of “its” and “it’s.” here a couple of tidbits that I picked off of the internet for the students.
“Its”: the possessive adjective and possessive pronoun form of the personal pronoun “it.”
“It’s”: a contraction of “it is” or “it has.”
Just remember two points and you’ll never make this mistake again. (1) “it’s” always means “it is” or “it has” and nothing else. (2.) Try changing the “its” in your sentence to “his” and if it doesn’t make sense, then go with “it’s.”
Next we can have a lesson on the use of “to” and “too.”
Maybe a better grammar lesson for bloggers is to not be so critical and give people a little slack. My typing skills are very lacking, so my fingers don’t keep up with my thoughts. More often than not, I hit “post comment” or “publish” in my haste before I do a thorough proof read. So if I get the jest of someone’s message, I’m not going to be too critical of their grammar or spelling. I just appreciate hearing what they have to say and have fun with it.
Take care of yourself, stay safe and have fun, Abby.
From See Atle, WAH, You Ess A
SaltyDog
That should be “gist” not “jest.”
ReplyDeleteI flunked another lesson. :-))
From Seattle, WA, USA
SaltyDog
Enjoying your updates and glad to hear you are keeping it as safe as can be. Continuing to pray...
ReplyDeleteGod Bless you - daily. May He embrace you with His comfort, may you feel His ever-presence, may you have safety in His shelter and rest in the shadow of His wing. May His angels watch over you! Amen.
Psalm 91
Mary...
Jax Beach, FL
Abby, this is the first time I've posted, but I've been praying for you and following your journey each day. I just read a passage in the Bible the other day that made me think of you, so I wanted to share it. It's Psalm 107:23-32.
ReplyDelete"Those who go down to the sea in ships,
Who do business on great waters,
They see the works of the Lord,
And His wonders in the deep.
For He commands and raises the stormy wind,
Which lifts up the waves of the sea.
They mount up to the heavens,
They go down again to the depths;
Their soul melts because of trouble.
They reel to and fro, and
stagger like a drunken man,
And are at their wits' end.
Then they cry out to the Lord in their trouble,
And He brings them out of their distresses.
He calms the storm,
So that its waves are still.
Then they are glad because they are quiet;
So He guides them to their desired haven.
Oh, that men would give thanks to the Lord for His goodness,
And for His wonderful works
to the children of men!
Let them exalt Him also in the
assembly of the people.
And praise Him in the company of the elders."
It sounds like you may be hitting some stormy seas, but remember you are not alone out there. God is with you and many people are praying for you. God bless, and Godspeed.
Jane in Camarillo,CA
03-21-10 @ 18:01
ReplyDeleteHi Team Abby,
Do you think we could have a little up-date as to how Abby is doing?
I know she’s very busy and can’t send us a blog, but just for this old ‘worry wart’ maybe you could give us a little encouragement, Thank you.
Hi Abby,
Just checking in to see what’s new with you……..
I pray that all is well and that you have everything under control….Yes???
That stuff down around the cape looks nasty, so I hope you have everything battened down and have got yourself secure to.
@ SaltyDog: Hi ‘Professor’…lol… I almost hurt myself laughing at your latest post, I just about fell out of my chair. I had sent a post on Abby’s last blog telling her that it didn’t matter to me if her words were all spelled backwards or there were no apostrophes, just as long as we heard from her. Then you very eloquently came up with your English lesson. I thought that was fantastic, I laughed so hard I hurt. Kudo’s to you, my friend!!!!!
Here’s this 16 year old girl, out in the middle of a storm, busting her butt and entertaining us, and all these people (not all) can think of is where she puts her apostrophes. I think it’s sad that some people have to be so critical. But again, a job well done…….
Abby, Keep up the good work and watch that crew.
Take good care of yourself and always be cautious.
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
@Hezakiah299: I totally agree with the comment that you posted regarding spelling and grammar, Michael. It’s for sure I’m not a professor. I’m just an old salty dog who has a hard time getting my fingers to stumble across the right keys. I think that everyone appreciates it very much when Abby takes time send us updates so I just feel that sending her our support, encouragement and a little entertainment is more important than critiquing everyone’s use of the English language.
ReplyDeleteI imagine that the weather has probably been keeping you very busy lately, Abby. With so much intense weather to face in the coming weeks, it’s important that you take good care of Wild Eyes, your crew and most importantly yourself. Even though we can’t wait to hear from you, don’t worry about us until the weather conditions allow you to relax a bit. Take care, Abby.
From Seattle, WA, USA
SaltyDog
Just popping in to wish you continued safe and happy sailing Abby - following you eagerly!
ReplyDeleteFay from the Gold Coast
@Jane in Camarillo - so glad you gave that psalm to Abby - we printed it out and stuck it up on our boat when we sailed from South Africa to New Zealand - such a comfort!
Hi Abby ... It was good to see day 58 is heading again towards the cape after your Eastward tack. That at least gives the nod that you're still firing on all eight cylinders, so to speak.
ReplyDeleteSo exciting........Cape Horn! Wishing you the best in weather and will check often on your progress.
Bob
Abby,
ReplyDeleteHere are my apostrophes '''''' and a few spare letters in case I mispell some thing ghjkasjkleoi. Please feel free to pretend I placed them correctly.
Looks like the weather will be a bit "Wild" for a few days stay safe and warm.
Hi Abby,
ReplyDeleteIt has been a few days since we have heard from you, while it is a bit disconcerting, I am sure you have everything under control. You and Wild Eyes are exactly where you belong, conquering the sea and fulfilling your dreams.
Many of us are praying each day for your safety and those that are not I am sure are wishing you well. Sometimes I think we may all forget at times that each day you are or at the very least on the precipice of experiencing exteme challanges, and yet you are only just sixteen years old. Anyone who has been at sea especially alone or anyone who has experienced peril understands that there are much, much more important issues to deal with than apostrophes or proper grammer.
I for one love your blogs Abby because they are genuine and true and I frankly do not care one iota about apostrohes, punctuation or grammer.
God Bless you Abby.
Cheryl
Going good, Abby
ReplyDeleteHi Abby ...Today I will pass Cape Horn see a map showing my locations and your locations. http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&msid=100901497129455024856.000481840e50504514267&ll=-43.644026,-90.175781&spn=33.769875,56.513672&t=h&z=4
ReplyDeleteI would love to come sailing alongside "Wild Eyes" and take a picture of you passing the Cape reading a book in Bikini or Eskimo suit, whatever you prefer :)
But I am engaged in a (virtual) sailing race towards Cherbourg, France. Luckily for you most boats of this race will pass the Cape before you do, so I guess no longer crowded waters and risks for collisions.
After Cape Hope, I will sail North onwards on the Atlantic and our route will part again.
I wish you fair winds and safe sailing on you World tour, that has a long way to go in stormy weather (at times that is)
@SaltyDog, sometimes it IS the Jest of it. People write funny stuff on these blogs! As for weather vs whether, that's a common one. Abby should actually be way out of the weather unless her map is incorrect. And Michael, speaking of critical, please check in with Dilip as you have been considered a faithful friend. You have been missed.
ReplyDeleteTucker
Hello Abby, Thanks for your update..stay safe and look forward to your next update.
ReplyDeleteNJ Mom
Abby,
ReplyDeleteIstead of using cell phone you can download SKYPE and talk for free and clear on the webcam with your family. www.skype.com ,good luck with your journey
Hi Abby,
ReplyDeleteHope you're doing ok with the rough weather. I know you & WE are well prepared for whatever comes.
@Team Abby: I saw on Facebook that Abby has had a knockdown. I'm sure she's fine, but keep us posted when you have a chance. We do tend to worry... :)
Rebecca in Sacramento
Do you know what caused your autopilot to fail? I think autopilots have a problem with following seas and I'm wondering if it was overworked. Do you have a wind vane? Is your autopilot steering to the wind or a heading?
ReplyDeleteIf I remember correctly, Josh Slocum tied his tiller while he slept. There used to be systems which were sold to imitate what he did. Anyway, it seems to me you could tie your wheel with a quick release on the line. You would need slack in the line so the autopilot could steer freely within a range but make it short enough to prevent the wheel from turning too far if the autopilot fails.
I'm confident your tech team has far more skill at this than I do and they will find a solution. Just think it through for your next sleep in following seas.
Let us know what you decide to do.
Sailor042, Texas
Just found your blog and I am amazed at your courage and now a loyal reader. Gods speed and blessing to you and your voyage!
ReplyDeleteHi Abby. Every day you are redefining courage and spirit for me. It's wonderful to see how much you know about navigation and problem solving. I am certain your adventure is changing the lives of countless people for the better. God bless. You're in my prayers every day.
ReplyDeleteHi ABBY...A Great Shout of a Hello From San Diego... I have only one recomendation, if you are not already doing it, is to sleep for only one hour at a time, have a look about and back to sleep (from my experience sailing) so nothing goes to far, breakage, wear or whatever.
ReplyDeleteGOD SPEED to you ABBY....Vaya Con DIOS...
Chris
Hey Abby, Sitting on the deck here in Pt Dume Malibu Ca. Looking out over the ocean I have a clear view of Catalina Island and Santa Barbara Island. Its one of those majical sunny warm days. There are boaters out enjoying it all. Thinking of you out their. How you left Marina Del Rey and how far you have gone. I called my sailing buddies that we won the Santa Barbara High point series in sail racing this year Tim and Dave and talked about making a trip from Channel Islands Harbor to Santa Barbara Island to Catalina Island to Pardise Cove and back to Channel Islands Harbor. Your trip inspires me to go sailing.
ReplyDeleteAbby, have you ever thought of visiting the southernmost ocean? Also, are you familiar with the Animal Planet series, "Whale Wars"? I think that once your done with your voyage, that your experience could be used inside the ocean vessel "Steve Irwin". This ship is an anti-whaling campaign. Their leader/captain is Paul Watson. Again, please think about this. :)
ReplyDeleteWhat you are doing is amazing Abby, take care of yourself and keep up the amazing work! Safe Journey!
ReplyDeleteIm 34 years old and just recently moved to Germany, originally from US, to be with my fiance. I thought it was such a crazy idea and thought id never be able to do it. Now that i herd your story it seems like the skys the limit. I wish you the absolute best of luck. You are truely an inspiration to anyone who thinks they cant do something or being too afraid to try.
ReplyDeleteI'm Glad everything is doing great. For some reason I can not get your location on the web. Hopefully is just my browser or something on google...
ReplyDeleteKeep enjoying the trip girl !!!!!!!
Cesar.
Go Abby! We here in Kansas are cheering you on!
ReplyDeleteWow! Keep the harness on at all times in the nasty stuff Abby, two if you can maneuver with the resistance, in Force 7 Plus make sure you always wind vang the main if not sooner because u don't want to be late with the wind vang cause situations get sick quick; enjoy the hellacious firing 40's swells, don't get psyched out because u are listening to your calling and you are living more than most do in a lifetime, God Speed and don't second guess your gut, you give inspiration to all whether they can admit it or not, but they probably have no idea of what is really going on! Keep a keen eye on your buoy readings and make sure the alarms are always set on your radar in case you come in a close encounter with a whale or large debris, all the best! Carpe diem! P.S... If it does get heavy put a helmet on, you will thank yourself later.
ReplyDeleteIf you love to travel I suggest you go to Thailand.
ReplyDelete