Last night the wind picked up around midnight. I was in a squall with about 30 knots for awhile and then it died down a little but stayed at a nice 20 knots for most of today. A nice change from the past few days! I had full sail up because of how light the wind has been recently. It was a little crazy in the pouring rain, pitch black out getting all reefed down. It only took a few minutes but my beanie got soaked through! Its my favorite one, and its quite upsetting to have it all wet and cold!
The wind is starting to die down a little now, but with another front coming tonight, I'm hoping it doesn't last for long. It was sunny for most of today which was a great boost to charging my batteries. I had a few squalls, a little rain, and over all a pretty good day. It was 50 degrees down below today and I used my diesel heater for the first time. It was amazing!! Just a few minutes and the whole cabin was nice and warm!
Of course I'm trying not to use my heater much to save fuel and its going to be getting a lot colder so I want to save it for that. Because of the last few slow days it looks like I'll be getting to Cape Horn a little later then expected - probably Tuesday. Dad flew out today but won't be to Ushuaia until tomorrow night. Thanks to Julie Watson and their team, he has hooked up with the right people to get him out to say hello.
Abby
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I am really enjoying your blog Abby. It's fun to read updates of your incredible adventure. Best wishes around the Horn!
ReplyDeleteG'day, Abby. Nice to hear you're making good progress again. I'm looking forward to your rounding the Cape next week. That will be an amazing milestone in your solo non-stop journey. Stay safe and good sailing. I'll be checking your progress from North Canterbury, New Zealand.
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear you weathered through! Keep it up! And don't worry, beanies dry out. :)
ReplyDeleteChrissy <><
Abby, you're getting really close now!! It'll be wonderful if Dad can be there as you round the Cape like Jessica's folks were. It must be a real morale booster having someone to share the excitement with you, even if it is from a bit of a distance. We have fingers crossed for clear skies as you sail past Cape Horn early next week.
ReplyDeleteClear skies,
~Phillippa & Brian
Vancouver, Canada
Hi Abby. Came home and found a post from you! Sweet! It sounds like you have experienced a range of weather in the last 24 hours....kind of like the Northwest - Washington state had a beautiful sunny day today; some experienced temps to 70 degrees I'm told. Tomorrow is a different story. Rain is predicted through the weekend. I spent most of my younger years in California, actually used to like the surf at Marina del Mar so I know what you mean about needing a bit of sun to get by. It was absolutely beautiful, crisp and clean air and blue skies. But, when we see a round swirled cloud over the tip of Mount Rainier we all know the weather is changing and rain is coming. That's when we know the weather "person" has it right. Did the heat from you heater help dry your beanie? Is your dad going to be able to stay for a week or so? I hope so. Either way, this promises a very special experience for both of you. I know he is a proud dad! I hope you have all tied down and are practiced at putting all behind closed doors now that the rougher waters, day and night, will not be fully predictable. I, for one, am completely soothed by hearing from you so keep the posts coming though your safety is, of course, the priority. With you in spirit..
ReplyDeleteHi Abby, sounds like a hand full. Thats a lot of sail to try and manage in the night. Getting close to Cape Horn has to be awesome, even better knowing your dad is coming out. Keep dry and warm.
ReplyDeleteTonyF
Good Evening Captain,
ReplyDeleteAbby...that's quite a mixture of weather conditions you're having. I can tell you really really like that beanie. Is that the one pictured in "St. Paddy's Day Gale"? Looks good on you....at least it didn't blow away....hehe.
I am so happy Julie and Team Watson came through with the air crew for your dad to circle you. Tell dad (Laurence) to take his gravol!! I hope the weather will be good at the cape for both of you.
Have a safe night Abby...clip on. GO ABBY.
john, Bay of Quinte, Lake Ontario, Canada
PS don't forget some bird photos for Chrissy
Sounds like the weather is going to make you earn that milestone. That's ok, it will be sweeter for the endurance you've already been tasked with. On deck in the black of night can be a little freaky. Glad you were up to the task. Safe sailing to you, Abby.
ReplyDeleteThe title is optimistic.
ReplyDeleteAbby,
ReplyDeletePlanning on making any more videos during the voyage? That would be very cool!
Keith
Loving the daily blog! Keep them up and hope warm weather finds you quickly after The Horn!
ReplyDeletekeep it up Abby, you are very inspiring! hope "seeing" your dad will give you an extra boost!
ReplyDeleteBonjour Abby & Wild Eyes,
ReplyDeleteWet and Wild? Go Abby, Go!
Stay warm & dry, Be safe.
PS
Thanks Team Jessica
Thumbs up from Boston, MA!!!!
ReplyDeleteGood sailing, Abs
ReplyDeleteHey Abby . . . good to hear you're making progress even if it is a little less than hoped for. It sounds like a real rush out there on deck in the dark reefing your sail. Just be careful! Stay clipped in!
ReplyDelete~ Cynthia (Half Moon Bay, California)
Thanks for the quick update Abby. I was watching for you, and wondering about the weather and the wind. Wow, if it was 50* in the cabin it must be cooling down pretty fast now. I'm wondering just how far into the 50s you are. Well, I'm feeling as excited as I imagine you are about getting to and around the Cape. Whew! Just a few more days, but my anticipation building. I'm really excited for you. I hope you're having a great time.
ReplyDeleteAnd, I think it's pretty cool that you all are working together with the Watsons too.
Enjoy..!
IndyMike
39°50’N, 86°9’W
Glad you'll get to see your Dad. I'll bet he's been missing you!
ReplyDeleteWhat a fun and unusual reunion.
ReplyDeleteAbby, I have been following you and your ventures and wish you nothing but the best. Stay safe and enjoy!
ReplyDeleteGreat news Abby. Glad you had some winds, sorry your beanie got soaked. Well, it will dry out.That is neat that your Dad is able to come out. Be nice break for you. Will he come aboard or just be where you can see him etc?
ReplyDeleteLuv Ya... God Bless and Keep you Safe
Blues Skies and Friendly Winds
Bud and Charla
Wheeling,Mo.
Thanks for the update!!
ReplyDeleteAbby---That is great that your Dad is coming to meet you down there. Many of us old old sailors are with you in spirit and hang on your every word as you write about what you are seeing and experiencing. Thanks so much for sharing it with us.
ReplyDeleteRusty
It's all great news, Abby! Sail on!!! :-D
ReplyDeleteJust want you to know that I check in everyday; it's been great reading your blog and clicking "Where's Abby". Keep it up and be safe.
ReplyDeleterussell
tupelo, ms
Awesome! Shifting challenges: sun,pouring rain,50 degrees, short heatup down below, 30 knots,20 knots, full sail,pitch black,all reefed out,bad beanie,and finally, dad. Your taking it, Abby!
ReplyDeleteAnd....
Your taking us to the horn - Tuesday. A day after Passover and the day before Cesar Chavez state holiday.
How would you describe the sound Wild Eyes makes through these waters? Is it any different?
Does anyone know...does Abby have a mom? I just have never heard her mentioned. If she does, does that mean she's coming down too like both of Jessica's parents did?
ReplyDeleteMichelle
Greetings Abby!
ReplyDeleteYou will! without a doubt become the youngest solo circumnavigator in my mind, your attitute is spot on and you are certainly paying your dues out there with mother nature. You and wild eyes are an inspiration to so many people, especially me! You go girls! I continue to pray for your safety Abby! God Bless! You are my hero!
Laura from Illinois
What is a beanie?
ReplyDeleteSorry for the dumb question. I'm new to this blog and I knew Jessica had sibs yet her mom came. I didn't mean was she born w/o a mom or found under a rock, I meant had her mom died or something. Guess I need to do some back reading. I just couldn't imagine not going if I were the mom that's all.
ReplyDeleteMichelle
Fire onboard fellow circumnavigator Jeanne Socrates' yacht 'Nereida'!
ReplyDeletehttp://synereida.livejournal.com/
go on babe you can do it...............just fink of it after u have finished :P
ReplyDeleteAbby,
ReplyDeleteGreat job as always, I hope the weather is clear enough for your dad to get a good view of you and Wild Eyes.
@Anonymous- Julie is Jess Watsons mom and helped the Sunderlands with sevral thing as I recall (food and flyover) That I know of.
@other anonymous A beanie is a winter hat. I suspect the beanie in question is the one that can be seen of Abby at the party in Cabo. (can find that on her facebook page)
Hi Abby,
ReplyDeleteMy ten year old daughter and I and another four of her girlfriends are all following you and your progress. They keep asking me, "Can we go on the computer and check to see where Abby is?" What a great roll model you are. Most of the sixteen year olds I know are hanging out at the mall and I thank you for the welcome inspiration for my daughter and her friends. We will continue to pray for a safe journey for you, and that I will do as good a job raising my children as your mother has done with you.
Hugs,
Catherine
Hi Babsy,
ReplyDeletewere you really hatched from an egg?!?
Than what kind of life form are you?
Yes, I am sort of worried now...
because apparently also Zac had something with birds, taking of and landing on the deck of his boat...
So please... we need some evidence to prove that you don't have feathers or a tail or other bird- or dinosaur-like features!
keep up them dodgers,
Jony the Pony
Abby-
ReplyDeleteIm so glad you get to see your Dad. Im sure you look forward to seeing him after all those days by yourself. Im glad you are doing well. Keep up the great work and stay positive. Im happy you are almost to Cape Horn. What an amazing accomplishment. Good luck!
Kevin
abby-
ReplyDeletewow! meeting your dad while round cape horn. cool. Stay safe and warm.
Kodiak Mike
Keep up the great work. You're an inspiration. We will be praying for you (and your family) as you round the horn. David
ReplyDeleteHey, Michelle. I think most of us understood where you were coming from. Others like to put people down, unfortunately. Ignore them and they usually go away.
ReplyDeleteHey Abbey. I checked out Alessandro Di Benedetto's web site yesterday after you mentioned him. So there are three of you brave souls out there on the ocean, doing your solo non-stop and unassisted thing. He's closing in on the Horn with you I see. Interesting that Allessandro's yacht is only 20 feet long! Wow. Now that IS doing it tough although I note it does have a cabin - unlike some of the other yachts he has sailed across open oceans, apparently. Jessica Watson will soon be out of the Indian Ocean and closing in on Australia.
You are all pretty amazing people I have to say and I admire your courage and determination to live your dreams. Go girl.
@ Michelle --- Welcome! Abby is one amazing gal, no? If you want to learn more about this amazing family, check out her brother Zac's website (zacsunderland.com). Following Abby's voyage is like a family reunion to many of us!
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Marie
WA St.
Keep it up!! :]
ReplyDeleteSail On The Silver Wind...
ReplyDeleteA Song In the Night
ReplyDelete© Silverwind
There’s A Rhyme__ That The Children__ Sing___ when Darkness Comes___
With The Fear It Brings___ To make Them Brave __Till The Morning Rise__
And Angel Sun___ Brightens Up The Skies___
It Begins Like A Silent Prayer __That Echoes Back___ From The Midnight Air__
But As It Grows __And The Courage Starts__
And Chases Fear __ From Their Trusting Little Hearts ___
La La La La la la la __ La La L A La La La __ (4 X)
Theres A Rhyme __That The Children Sing __ You’ll Hear It Too__ If You’re Listening __
Shadows Fade__ And Then Disappear __ When Voices Rise_ Up Sweet And Clear __
If You’re Afraid__ Of The Darkness Too __Then Theres A Child__ Deep Inside Of You ___
Sing A Rhyme __To The Blackest Night __While Looking For__ A Soon Re-turning Light __
Take Me Soon Oh Morning Star ___La La La-- La La La ---
To The Heavens Where You are __ La La La-- La La La ---
Sailing On A Silverwind __ La La La-- La La La ---
Take Me Where My Dreams Begin __ La La La-- La La La --- ( Instrumental Break-)
Take Me Soon Oh Morning Star ___La La La-- La La La ---
To The Heavens Where You are __ La La La-- La La La ---
Sailing On A Silverwind __ La La La-- La La La ---
Take Me Where My Dreams Begin __ Where My Dreams Begin __
Take Me Soon Oh Morning Star ___La La La-- La La La ---
To The Heavens Where You are __ La La La-- La La La ---
Sailing On A Silverwind __ La La La-- La La La ---
Take Me Where My Dreams Begin __ La La La-- La La La ---
Take Me Soon Oh Morning Star ___La La La-- La La La ---
To The Heavens Where You are __ La La La-- La La La ---
Sailing On A Silverwind __Take Me Where My Dreams Begin __
Where My Dreams Begin __
Hi Abby,
ReplyDeleteI wanted you to know that some of us at Casa Pacifica in Camarillo, CA are following you daily. You are a great inspiration for our kids and for our staff!
Sincerely,
Sean
Hope today has been good for you. Still trying to put pic up with our posts.
ReplyDeleteLuv Ya
Stay Safe
Bud & Charla Winnett
i admire your skill and courage for undertaking such an adventure... following you, i think, gives many of us the courage to undertake our own adventures into the unknown and push ourselves a little more... thank you!!!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the updates!! Be safe - if you can post more pictures that would be great!!! Good luck from Delaware USA!!
ReplyDeleteI know nothing about sailing, never sailed a day in my life. Yet,this blog is so wonderful to come to each day. It is beautifully thrilling to know that there is a young lady out there experiencing such as this. So excited for you and forever amazed with your courage.
ReplyDeleteHi Abby,
ReplyDeleteAww, you got your favourite hat wet:-(
Don't put it too close to that heater! It seems like it would stuff it up.
Look on the bright side,
@Hezakiah299 has a spare 'Lara Craft Tomb Raider cap', but it sounds like you'll have a tough time convincing him to let go of it, lol.
Looking great Ms Abby, keep your feet warm and stay out of the hot sun!!!
ReplyDeleteAl P
Hi Abby:
ReplyDeleteThank you, for the update; I’m sure you love the better winds. Like the gentleman says don’t go too fast and out run pop, I am getting excited for you, won’t be long until you can chalk up another dream on your dream catcher.
Welcome aboard Michelle you want be sorry you found Abby, she is a wonderful young lady with nerves of stainless steel. I am sure it hurts Abby’s heart when someone with a “cute mouth” gets on her website; no need to explain to them they don’t understand, like Grogan says we understood.
Have a blast sailing tomorrow Abby can’t believe you are almost there.
Papaw
Hi Abby,
ReplyDeleteJust want to wish you safe sailing as you near the cape, not long now, must be getting exciting and having your Dad nearby will be a tremendous morale booster for sure. So onward and stay safe............Babs
03-25-10 @ 21:10
ReplyDeleteHi Abby,
Looks like you’re getting ready and lining up to make your run on the Cape.
Was looking at P/W and you could have an interesting ride. I’m curious as to what your meteorologist says about it??? But no sweat, you’ll handle it, just a little fun on the run…lol…
I wish you all the luck I can muster and that you can handle. Did you get your beanie dried out yet??
Just a suggestion: Whenever you start feeling cold in the cabin, rather than jack up the heater, just step outside for a nano-second and you’ll really appreciate the warmth of the cabin when you come back inside.
@ Roski: Just for the record, I was wearing beanies before you were a twinkle in your daddy’s eye….ha, ha, ha...lol.. I just couldn’t pass that one up.
Keep up the good work Abby, I’m sure you did a walk around the deck checking on the condition of everything….Yes??? Good glad to see that!!
Take care Abby, and keep an eye on that valuable crew.
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
sounds good how you are picking up more wind! How long until you get to cape horn? or are you already there?
ReplyDeleteIt must be exciting to see your dad after so long soon! :)
<3
Long time reader, first time poster.
ReplyDeleteAbby I am so impressed with you and your journey. I sit here near Miami in amazement as I come here everyday to see your latest blog/photos. Continue your glourious adventure and be safe and may the winds continue to be at your back.
Jackie
Hollywood, Florida
Hey Captain Abbey, Wow ,Almost to Cape Horn First mile stone so happy for you and your team ..Not to forget DAD.MOM Family.....I still say Dance with the stars.... Sandi in chesapeake
ReplyDeleteI just had to comment that you are so brave...I have to check your blog everyday to see what new has happened on your journey! Keep up the good work!
ReplyDeletei enjoy following your journey as well as that of our Jessica from Australia ... however i do find your blog hard to read with the dark background ,, maybe a lighter shade .. anyway just athought good luck .. Dennis
ReplyDelete@Michelle: No need to feel bad about asking that question. Most people understood what you meant. There are always a few who find it necessary to twist someone’s comments around. And some who indulge in one too many glasses of wine before blogging. Those organic wines can be nasty. :-)) Keep your comments coming, Michelle. It’s a pleasure to hear from you.
ReplyDeleteFrom Seattle, WA, USA
SaltyDog
Dolittle from SC Says be safe and enjoy I will keep you in my Prayers as you make this journey of a life time
ReplyDeleteGood going, Abby.
ReplyDeleteWe're all getting so excited for you.
Happy sailing. Stay safe and warm and God be with you.
Clare, Spokane, Wash.
Yeah Abby!! You are almost there girl. I hope there willl be video of the short reunion of you and dad.
ReplyDeleteHow exciting!!
Thanks for the updates too.
Alyssa from Irvine, CA :-)
Just for perspective folks:
ReplyDeleteSomewhere toward the end of the comments on Abby's blog entry just prior to this one an Anonymous poster suggested that neither Jessica's, nor Abby's solo non-stop unassisted attempt to sail around the world was a slam dunk. Something about "it's a dangerous ocean out there". (I think I got that apostrophe correct, right?)
Jessica reported a series of knock downs; one to a full 180. Recently Abby had to cope with a 90 degree roll - rig on the surface of the water. Here is the potential result of of that kind of encounter in the ocean; in this case a 120 in 60 kts.
http://www.latitude38.com/lectronic/lectronicday.lasso?date=2010-03-24&dayid=404
(scroll to second article)
It IS a dangerous place out there...these girls (young women, if you like) are even MORE brave than it appears from their blog entries as s*&t can go serious wrong out there, almost at anytime. (No, I'm not trying to scare them, they know all this already)
So when you fret for them (blog parents or just kind of heart) remember this really isn't just a pie eating contest where the worst that could happen is that you get sick and have to go home early. Abby (and her sailing soul mate Jessica) are each...as Jessica's tee shirt proclaimed..."One Tough Cookie".
Go girlz!!
Steve in California
Thanks SaltyDog and others too! So someone said there were 3 people going around but I've heard there's like 8 or 9 out there right now! Does anyone have the WHOLE list and has someone produced and can provide a link to a KMZ (or whatever the file type is) so we can see all (or most) of the around the world-ers simultaneously on Google Earth?! Is Jony the Pony sort of like one of the team leaders...is she the one that can help?!
ReplyDeleteMichelle
Glad your heater works so well. Right now, the Drake Passage looks like a kitty cat; I hope that it says that way over the next few days. You'd have a following sea and a close reach but you might be on deck reading a book if you were bundled up.
ReplyDeleteMaybe that knockdown was The Bloop coming up to check you out?
Hey Abby,
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear you are advancing on Cape Horn. Hope you can get a look at it. Maybe your famous brother Zac can see you at Cape Horn. Then you can ride him about being the first girl to pass the Cape! Sounds like the weather is a bit like Oklahoma weather. If you don't like it, just wait a bit. Smooth sailing, hope you get some good pics when you pass the Cape. Luv the pic of you in your beanie (wet or dry)!!!!
John in Ashland OR
Good luck 'round the Horn, Abby!
ReplyDeleteJan, Waitara, NZ
Hello Abby,
ReplyDeleteYou just keep sailing, some of us old hands will answer the questions for you.
@Roski I am 78 and I have a beanie and have had many over the years. It is a wool knitted tube closed at the top, sometimes with a pom-pom but usually in the colours of whatever team you fancy.
It is also a favourite of old codgers in the winter because usually their thatch is not as thick as it was.I feel proud that a brave young adventurer like Abby has a favourite.
I just looked up Passage weather Abby, make sure everything is well stowed, I think a bit of a blow is on it's way.
Stay alert, brave girl,stay clipped on and Godspeed.
Peter, Gold Coast Aus
Just popping back in again to let you know my thougts and prayers are still racing out there too you as you near the Horn.
ReplyDeletePlease stay safe and secure.
Jeanie In The Lakes
Gidday Abbey
ReplyDeleteIm a bit dissappointed that you wont be rounding the Horn till Tuesday as I will be away then and might not be able to celebrate yhour triumph with the rest of the world.That Ok though Id rather see you safe than trying to rush into things So all the best for whenn you do get there
And Michelle I like you was almost about to put my foot in and go crook about Abbey calling it Julie Watson and team. Then I realised they were talking about Jessica's Mother and not Team Jessica Watson. It wasnt so much a mistake on your part just a misundersanding by people who read your comment. I'm sure Team Abbey would be glad to hear more of your comments in the future.
Safe Sailing Abbbey
Hi Babsy,
ReplyDeletekeep up them dodgers,
Jony the Pony
Great reading your blog, Abby! So excited for you and Lawrence and your whole team for the Horn coming up on Tuesday!
ReplyDeleteCouple of notes for commenters:
Michelle -- I know lots have already answered, and I haven't read every single reply, so this may be a repeat, but yes, Abby's mom, Marianne, is a big part of her team, just as she was with oldest bother Zac's around-the-world sailing adventure in 2008-2009. However, right now they are a brood of seven children, home schooled by Marianne, PLUS she is expecting number eight! So, I think we can all understand, as much as I'm sure Marianne would love to see Abby as well down at the Horn, that she has quite a load to bear at home :-)
Also, although I keep up with Abby's blog, I don't always read all the comments, but I've noticed lately some absences of previous frequent commenters, such as Grant F. Hope you all are doing okay out there!
Take good care, Peace, Your Oklahoma Well-Wisher
Hey Abby,
ReplyDeleteWell, I just checked 'weather' on GoogleEarth, and it almost looks like there is a 'path' between two big cloudy areas at the bottom of the Cape. A nice little path for WildEyes and her captain. Of course, that could change as Mother Nature directs, but it did look like a path. I'm thinking; Wow, it's almost like the parting of the Red Sea! Hey! You're in good hands Captain Abby. Sail on!
Namaste~~
Michelle ... Everyone knew what you meant about the "Mom" question, and it wasn't fair to poke fun at your faux pas. We all at times wish we had worded sentences differently or excluded them altogether, just look at all the stupid comments I made recently. (No more wine for me for awhile. Went 10 weeks w/o and now will try again)
ReplyDeleteMichael & Peter ... I knew a beanie had to be something Abby was wearing on her head by the context of what she wrote, just hadn't heard the word before (lived a sheltered life). All I could think of was something you lay on while watching TV, but that's a bean bag, and I doubt Abby would have had room for a bean bag, but she might wish she had one at times, who knows.
Abby ... Wondering where you are exactly and has your Dad arrived? Can't wait for your next update and now I'm off to PW to see what the weather forecast looks like. Exciting times for you! Will be great to see Wild Eyes from 1000 feet up, if that happens.
Just saw your latest position report. Have been sticking yellow pins in GoogleEarth for about a week and when I placed this morning's pin and saw how close you are to the gap between the Cape and Antarctica, I got really excited for you! Hope it's exciting out there too!
ReplyDeleteDearest Abby
ReplyDeleteI am a long time reader of your blog and of Zac's while he was following his dream, but have never written. I am so proud of you and your brother for the examples you set for young people. I was at the marina when Zac pulled out and cried with joy when he left, I had that same feeling today when I looked at wheres Abby and see how close you are to the cape. I congraulate your parents for being the brave soles they are to allow you and your brother the opportunity to chase your dreams. They are wonderfull people who have given you the strength to follow your dreams. Keep safe and have a great time. With much admiration Amaya's Grandma Lori
Passageweather.com shows a front brewing in the Southern Ocean heading for Drake Passage, Keep that beanie dry and warm Abby.
ReplyDeleteAbby,
ReplyDeleteGood luck on rounding Cape Horn!!!
Stay safe always.
fr@ncis
Hi Abby, My fiance and I are relatively new sailors who just successfully completed our first bareboat charter down in the Florida Keys. Having had just a tiny taste of it, can only imagine the joys and challenges you are facing on your journey. You are truly an inspiration to all of us!
ReplyDeleteI had not checked your progress in many weeks and today wondered to myself, "Is she still at it?" So thrilled to see that not only are you still at it, but approaching a significant milestone! I hope that you will indulge yourself every now and then by heating up the cabin, it's like giving yourself a great big hug! Stay safe and Godspeed!
Go Abby...Go!! Greetings from Camarillo! A little hazy right now, but very pleasant. As a Ventura County resident and wholly incompetent sailor -- I'm taking a bit of vicarious pride in your adventure. Fair winds and following seas to you! Shane
ReplyDeleteAbby, three cheers for a Dad who's right with you for one of your greatest accomplishments -- sailing around Cape Horn! He'll also walk you down the aisle some day at your wedding :)
ReplyDeleteFran
On Zac:s site (zacsunderland.com) he wrote an introduction to his siblings and their attitude to his voyage, written last year:
ReplyDelete"Abby (15) wishes she were on the seas, instead of Zac, but she is very supportive of his adventure. Toby (11) thinks he’s crazy, because he gets seasick, and couldn’t imagine doing what Zac is doing. Jessie, Lydia and Kathryn are too young to really understand what he’s doing and why, but they miss his being around to play with them. Ben is just a baby, so he has not voiced his opinion yet."
Almost impossible to get the small comment window!!!
ReplyDeleteFor 30 hours!
Hi Miss Abby, good job!
@Bob Roski, I had searched the dictionary for beanie... it's "bonnet" in french (lol)
I hope this will get through... already vanished twice during the verif process...
Hey Abby I just found your blog and read some of your incredibly brave story. Well actually my human owner read your story to me, but I enjoyed looking at the pictures and wish you the best of luck!
ReplyDeleteYou have a lot of heart. You'll make it for sure, just believe in yourself.
ReplyDelete=)
We're all enjoying reading about your journey. Good luck, and good sails ahead!
ReplyDeleteHi Abby, good to hear that all is well with you out there. Look forward to hearing how the 'visit' with your Dad goes :).
ReplyDeleteStay safe. X.
You are so cool! I just started following and i love it! my website is www.digitalthoughtbubble.blogspot.com
ReplyDeleteYou are awesome!!!!
Bonjour Abby & Wild Eyes,
ReplyDeleteNew solo circumnavigation page on your website, that is true sportmanship!
:-)
Keep warm & dry, Take care, Be safe
Hi Abby and her blogger family
ReplyDeleteJust wanted to say that most of the comments on Abby's blog are well thought through, interesting to read, supportive and caring. Maybe we should just ignore the occasional comment that has an immature bent to it. Maybe the moderator could even let them slip into the waste bin?
Best of luck Abby as you get closer to the horn. You have such a positive attitude and great skills for a young sailor - I hope you get around safely, enjoy the ride, and let us know as soon as you get a chance in your usual impressive story telling way.
take care,
Mike (Canberra)
Still be careful out there Abby, if your going thru the carribean or the indian ocean. your going to need security escort (Pirates) Be safe out there! :-) Dan - from Anaheim
ReplyDelete03-26-10 @ 21:33
ReplyDeleteHi Abby,
Would love to hear from you before you get ‘super busy’, if you have the conditions to write. Take no chances!!!!! I think you’re about to have your ‘fun ride’ so batten down the hatches lady, and secure the crew.
Take care Abby, and concentrate on what you’re doing, although by the time you get to read this it will already be done.
Just took a look at P/W and I think you’re rather busy right now.
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
Abby,
ReplyDeleteYou have some more company out there. Minoru Saito finally got underway again. Repairs to his boat are complete and his arm, which he injured more than a month ago, has healed. He has motored from Valdivia, Chile out to the Pacific, well north of you, and is ready to get underway sailing again. He's had more than his share of bad luck, so I wish him the very best. I was wondering if Zac has been in touch with Saito at during his attempt at a wrong-way circumnavigation.
Well, I hope you’re doing well and that the weather will cooperate for your rounding of Cape Horn. I’m excited for you and for your dad and really looking forward to the big day. Take care and have fun, Abby.
From Seattle, WA, USA
SaltyDog
Wow I can't believe you're doing this at 16! Absolutely incredible and very inspiring. I wish you the best on your voyages and I'll be reading everyday!
ReplyDeletePeyton- Seattle, WA
Best of luck on your approaching rounding of Cape Horn. Remain alert and conservative.
ReplyDelete@Mike - are you saying Jony, Michael and all the others who are being silly, light-hearted and yes, a little immature are unwelcome? Come on...lighten up! I'm sure Abby is entertained as are we all!
ReplyDeleteKyla
@ saltydog..
ReplyDeleteIndeed. Believe it or not, Zac met Saito-san in Cape Town on this same voyage that he's been delayed nearly a year now. Zac's been home ages now, Abby's set sail, and Sait-san still completing his voyage. Had hoped Abby and Saito-san would have also crossed wakes. Be pretty insane. :-)
http://www.zacsunderland.com/blog/2009/02/cape-town-rendez-vous.html
I just have to say how brave you are.Stay safe.
ReplyDeleteHello from Texas! I know you have a lot of followers with tons of questions, but I thought of something I wonder about your journey and thought I'd stop by to ask. Do you see God in your travels? When no one else is around what do you notice in such solitude? There has to be times when you think and write on such a trip and ponder questions about faith and purpose? Is there anything you've learned concerning faith on this voyage? Many blessings to you. I admire your determination and will.
ReplyDelete@Kyla
ReplyDeleteNo way Kyla. I like the light-hearted comments as well as anyone (and I don't regard those fun comments as immature). I guess I was thinking about the blogs that put other bloggers down, or try and make the global journeys seem like a competition between the two young female sailors when clearly their competition is against the elements and their own personal challenges.
I'm happy to cop a serve if you think I am being a wet blanket.
Cheers,
Mike
My Goodness Abby, I didn't realise you were quite so far south until I just looked up your position.
ReplyDeleteIf you stand on tippy- toes you will be able to see Aus off your port beam.
By now I guess you are in the passage.Good luck and safe sailing brave lady
Peter Gold Coast Aus.
Skipper,
ReplyDeleteYou'll be SO grounded if your NOT careful rounding the horn. Please stay extra vigilant and GOD Bless.
Hi Abby,
ReplyDeletemy name is Pinky (nickname). I love to write but all the time i fell as if i get writter block. I try googling different story ideas but nothing seems to help. Do you have any suggestions on how to make a blog interesting?
Great blog love it plz visit my blog plz
ReplyDelete03-27-10 @ 10:38
ReplyDeleteHi Abby,
Hope things are going well for you, and that you are staying warm and dry. How’s the beanie? Did your Dad make it to Ushuaia? I hope that there is good visibility and that you’ll be able to see each other.
@ Kyla: Do you think that’s what he meant? I saw it but just passed over it thinking that he was referring to some rude comments that had been made earlier. Speaking for myself, when I make my ‘silly’ remarks, they are written for Abby, hopefully to make her laugh a little bit, and possibly to help relieve any stress that she may be under at that time. I guess it’s all in the individual’s interpretation. C'est Le vie..
Well Abby, good luck and sail safe, and you’ll be around the Cape looking back at it. I hope that everything goes smoothly for you.
Take care and strap the crew in tightly plus yourself.
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 ... How goes it down there? I imagine you have your hands full with sail changes, etc. Have your storm jib up? Auto-pilot working fine? If you can't get to the blog, maybe we could get an update from Team Abby or Laurence. Would be great to hear more about his rendezvous plans.
ReplyDeleteUshuaia, Argentina looks like an interesting place with the colorful houses. Reminded me of photos of homes in Iceland. There must be a psychological reason why homes seem to be painted brighter the farther away you get from the equator. We're all sun lovers and when we miss it, we compensate the best we can. That's my guess.
According to PW, it looks like you're in a good weather window through next Thursday when a red patch appears. (Red means winds above 45 knots) 20-40 knots should be a piece of cake for an old Sea Dog such as yourself :-) .......We'll see.
Abby, you're doing what most of us will spend a lifetime only dreaming about! We are fortunate that we can live the adventure through you, and for that we all should THANK YOU!
ReplyDeleteGodspeed!!! We'll be praying for your continued safe and pleasant journey.
Hank, Dana Point, CA
What you're doing is amazing. Keep your chin up.
ReplyDeleteHi Abby, what made you decide to go around the Horn instead of working your way through the Tierra Del Fuego waterways and exiting at Punta Dungeness on the South Atlantic?
ReplyDeleteMike
What are you going to do after you set the record? Do you have any other adventures planned in the future? I hope the sea fares well for you its good to see that so many people support your efforts.
ReplyDeleteHey Abby, saw this on my yahoo homepage just a few minutes ago and thought I'd share it with you!
ReplyDeletehttp://www.grindtv.com/outdoor/blog/16744/teenage+sailor+abby+sunderland+approaching+treacherous+cape+horn/
Hope the link works!
&& keep it up!!
- Tamara
Hi Abby,
ReplyDeleteMy name is Corinne and I just started following your blog and adventures! I find myself checking up on you two to three times a day. I have a 16 year old daughter, Ali and an 18 year old, Jessica, studying abroad in New Zealand. My husband & I are airline pilots that plan to live on a sailboat in Australia some day. Whitsunday Islands. You have inspired me in so many ways. Blue Skies Abby!