Its been a nice day out with plenty of wind and nice big swells all behind me. I've had about 25 knots today but it hasn't been very steady. It's been all the way down to 15 knots at some times and I have had gusts almost up to 40 knots. At the moment it's dying down a little. I'm hoping it's not for long though because a good 25 knots is just enough to keep my wind generators going nicely and keep the batteries charged up over night until daylight lends a hand.
My second auto pilot is working very well. It is exactly the same as my other auto pilot. If some thing does go wrong with it I have enough spares between the two auto pilots that I should be able to fix it out here. With all of the troubleshooting I have done, I know these things inside and out so at least I have that experience.
It certainly would be an uncomfortable ocean crossing if I had to hand steer all of the time, taking breaks to sleep every now and then. But I am sailing around the world after all and a little discomfort is to be expected. My team and I have thought everything through and feel very comfortable with how things are at the moment.
I've been able to head north a little more lately. It will be nice to get up into warmer water. I had been warned about the waters around South Georgia Island. I had been keeping a good eye on my water temperature gauge for any drops in temperature. Any sudden drops could have meant an iceberg in the area. The sea temperatures have been around 45F and the air about 50F during the day.
I haven't had any more ships now that I'm away from land. Being well over a hundred miles from any land, I can sleep with out worrying quite as much. I really do like being out in the middle of the ocean much more then being close to land. I'm pretty happy that I'll have a few weeks before I get very close to land again.
My hands and feet are pretty well healed from their cuts and bruises. You bloggers sound like my mom! And yes, I brush my teeth but it has been too long since I have had a warm shower!
Abby
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Stay warm and well. It has been interesting following you on your adventure.
ReplyDeleteWow what an inspiration you are Abby. Sail safely and may your dreams soon come true. xox
ReplyDeleteWow abby, nothing like going through hard things to teach you so much!! Think about how much you have learned already... even though I know you were prepared before you left, I bet you know Wild Eyes and all its gear in a way more intimate way!! Praying for safe journeys, no icebergs and steady wind!! Enjoy, won't be long before you will be half way... Web
ReplyDeleteHey Abby,
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear you are settling in again after all the excitement of passing Cape Horn. Hope you put some miles behind you with all that wind. Were there any Easter treats for you in the food bag?
John in Ashland OR
Abby
ReplyDeleteNo doubt you have embarked on this circum-navigational challenge because you were willing to take the risks that accompany it. If you had wanted to do Princess Cruise Lines, you would have done that instead, and with no appologies. Here's one who embraces your decision to sail. You've already conquored the SA "horn", and well on your way! And you have a great land-based team; who would go without a team? So then... Go my friend, Go!!!
Paul
SC, CA
Skipper, it is so refreshing to know that you are doing fine and have some fair winds. Sail safe and dry. As always, I wish you fair winds and following seas.
ReplyDeleteOld salty USN(Ret)
04-08-10 @ 02:01
ReplyDeleteHi Abby,
Glad to see that everything is running pretty smooth for you, good wind, keeping the batteries charged and the auto-pilot is behaving. I hope it continues that way. Hope you don’t have to resort to hand steering, that would be very disruptive to your schedule. Glad to hear that confidence in your voice, sometimes that’s half the battle. You can’t tackle something and be timid about it.
Temps in the 50F doesn’t sound to bad but I’ll be glad to see you get into a warmer area. Would you get any kind of a warning if you were coming up on an iceberg???
I’m really glad to see that your hands are clearing up, truthfully, I was concerned about them.
So if we bloggers sound just like your Mom, that would mean that we are taking very good care of you!!!!!…lol… We should all take that as a compliment, thank you.
I figure you’ll just have to put that warm shower on your “first things to do when I get home“, list.
Keep up the good work Abby, stay alert, watch your crew and have lots of fun……..
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
I am a father with a daughter about 6 years the younger. I can only imagine what your parents are going through while you travel your journey. I do know that they are very proud of you and support you and pray for you everyday. I do have a question, have you been able to catch any fish during your journey?
ReplyDeleteThanks Abby.
ReplyDeleteKeep smiling.:)
Luv.
Richard (QLD) Aus ♥
Do you have to use salt water soap to bathe? A friend had to do that in WWII and said that it didn't so much clean as peel off a layer of skin.
ReplyDeleteYour decision making ability is very mature. You can run with one autopilot and use the busted primary for spares, if needed. I am sure that you have become quite the expert in hydraulic systems.
That is unlike your "expertise" in fishing. Maybe, a nice fresh pompano will ram headfirst into the bow and flip up on deck? Sounds like your best bet.
You are an inspiration to us all.
Hi Abby,
ReplyDeleteI just got to hear about you - and I live in the Bay Area... So much for being informed. Awesome and incredible do not even begin to describe what I feel about your adventure - and your spirit! Way to go - and good luck! I shall be following you every now and then. Stay safe - and complete the voyage!!
Just a quick funny anecdote :-) When I told my 9 year old earlier today that there is this 17 year old girl going around the world all on her own in a boat, her instant reaction was - "How is she pedalling?!"! :D I will make sure to educate her (and myself) more on how you are doing it.
Bood luck and bon voyage!
Mahesh
Hi Babsy,
ReplyDeletekeep up them dodgers,
Jony the Pony
Glad to hear the update :) I'm following you all the way! So good to hear things are going well. As you said, an adventure is one with unexpected things..good and bad. You have to figure out how to overcome things just as in everyday life. Of course this is a bit different but all working to make you stronger and more confindent. Best wishes
ReplyDelete~Chris
B safe.
ReplyDeleteG'Day Abby,
ReplyDeleteNice to read that conditions are reasonably to your satisfaction. Wind doing what it should, water and air temp' in comfortable range.
Heading into slightly warmer 'climbs'.
Auto Pilot will give in eventually and allow itself to be repaired, As you comment - know it backwards by now. Someone mentioned in a Blog that the manufactures should at least be able to troubleshoot your problem - good PR to do so - many puzzled as to why they haven't.
Re your hot shower, one of the camping outdoor shower containers ( black ) would be handy, Self heating and using the Navy method - turn it on, rotate body 360 degrees once to get wet - turn off, soap up, on again two 360 turns to rinse off - water usage a couple of litres( half a gallon US if that.)
You are doing fine- ignore the negative comments when they appear - better still don't publish them.Amazes me at some of the absolute crap that is written as so called Blogs.
Keep doing what you are, all wish you well.
Meantime,
Sail safe.
Most of all.
ENJOY!!!
Poppa Bear
CAIRNS
Down Under
Hi Abby, It is really good to hear that you have everything under control, that you're making forward progress, and that you have fairly favorable sailing conditions. You must be very pleased with how well things are going!
ReplyDeleteMaybe, ....as you get into warmer waters you might just be able to heat some water and have a fresh water 'bath'. I'm sure it would feel really good to get the salt off for a while. However, I think you do need to go a lot further North before you try the bath thing....50 degrees sounds really, really chilly! :)
Stay warm and dry...Keep alert and remember --always, SAFETY FIRST! :) (Yes, those of us who are mothers are ALWAYS mothers!) :)
We love ya!
GO GIRL!
Hugs and prayers,
Janell in Oklahoma, USA
Abby, I look forward to your blogs. I check them everyday, and keep ckecking until you post a new one. This is very exciting to me. Being able to keep up with you and your adventure like this. I know nothing about sailing. So, occassionally I have look something up, to know what you are talking about.
ReplyDeleteOne thing that you remind us or atleast me, is, it is one thing to see a star admire it. It is a whole other thing to reach for that star and do whatever you have to, to touch it.
Gods speed, my little friend.
hi abby
ReplyDeletewe sound like your mom because we share her worries and pride. :)
it's harder to circumnavigate the world with you, from our laptop and in the safety of our homes.
stay safe and sail on girl.
susivienne
philippines
Hallo Abby Schönes Mädchen
ReplyDeleteBestimmt Schönes Osterfest verbracht
hab Blumen auf der Webseite für Dich Dein
Schönes Lächeln sagt mir Jetzt Afrika
in Sicht
Wünsch Dir Schönes Wetter
und Sonne und viele 20 Knoten
und eine Gute Heimfahrt
Grüße von Markus aus Germany
So question... do you have a temperature alert sound if the ocean temp falls below a certain point? You know, to dodge those pesky iceberg thingys. No warm showers? Eww! No solar hot water heater aboard? What kind of cruise ship is this?
ReplyDeleteSeriously you're doing very well Skipper. Couldn't be prouder of you. GOD Bless.
Will, Abby, you are such a great saver of our thoughts, I bet we had a lot of thoughs like you weould be getting into a big mess going so close to shore. But you pulled it off and there you are back on traack, huh? I know just not having thinks really feel comfortable with the 2nd automatic pilot not work right, but also we fan;s out hwere are very worried about that Leak. God watching over and guide you. Then it will get working better, huh. Yah, I'm a mom of 4 boys and I worry about them, when they were young even going to the ball field with their frieds. Buy Your a young lady proving big adventures can happen. Bless your heart. Your doing great. With all us out here keeping a eye out your safe. But we do worry. stay clipped and hope your gear and beding dry soon enough.
ReplyDeleteDee T. Santa Clarita, Ca.
Glad to hear all is going well Abby and you have had some nice wind and your auto pilot is working well.
ReplyDeleteEnjoy your adventure and stay safe.
Joy
Ballarat
Victoria
Keep those teeth brushed believe me u don't want those to get into trouble...Hope those bruises and cuts heat fast.... and I hope the weather stays good for ya.
ReplyDeleteHi Abby, well done, you seem to have the auto pilot well under control. It is great to hear that your cuts and bruises are healing. I know that we do sound like your Mum at times, but I guess that once you have been a Parent all young people seem like your own children. Please stay dry and safe. Enjoy your adventure. Regards, Jeanp, Australia.
ReplyDeleteAbby,
ReplyDeleteIt's exciting to hear your adventures. Here's another verse for you as you sail. Joshua 1:9
"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." God Bless!!!
Donathan Williams (Vero Beach FL)
Hi Babsy,
ReplyDeletewith modern communications I guess it must be pretty easy to combine sailing and studying at distance learning universities. If you continue your sailing career, maybe you should enroll with a distance learning university like for example the Open University (Milton Keynes, UK). Excellent way to obtain degrees while in the middle of outdoor adventures. Also great to fill up the times when there is nothing to do, and most of the time there is nothing to do!
What is it that you are presently frolicking with? Some time ago Jessica was frolicking with them ipod...
Keep up them dodgers,
Jony the Pony
WOW! What a remarkable young woman.
ReplyDeleteGodspeed: GO! GO! GO!
Hi Abby
ReplyDeleteWell done. Congratulations on passing Cape Horn.
What are you going to do to celebrate this occasion? All the best.
Marg from Jhb.
Abby, I got a good laugh at the end of your blog. Yes, we are like mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters,aunts, uncles,fans, etc. And... I understand you brushed your teeth... but did you remember to floss also? :-)
ReplyDeleteDwight in N.C.
Hi Abby,
ReplyDeleteI am glad you are doing fine. Hopefully you will get some sunny and warm days after all the cold weather you got so far.
Im really sorry that your dad couldnt see you, I can understand that locals dont want to sail around cape horn but I was hoping that he could get in touch with the same people that help Jess's parents to fly over her boat.
Best wishes for you and your family.
Marina
Hi Abby - It's great to hear from you and the ins and outs of sailing around the world. I have one question: How do you keep track of time when you are out in the ocean? I mean your clocks and watches, what time zone do you keep them on. Depending on your location, you can be far from west coast time.
ReplyDeleteKeep of the good work! You are a great inspiration to all of us :)
Hi Abby!
ReplyDeleteBeing out in the middle of the ocean with no land in sight seems so daunting to me! I envy your solitude, but I wonder if you ever feel very tiny in comparison to your surroundings? Thank you so much for sharing your experience - it's nice for us "armchair travelers" to read!
Abby
ReplyDeleteI have become absorbed by your courageous venture.I follow your trip every day. I have children around your age and feel like another of your "parents" watching over you each day!!!
Your maturity and tenacity are an inspiration to all teenagers. Your decision making skills demonstrate your wisdom beyond your years.
God speed. Keep your (wild) eye on the target!
Mark O.
New jersey, US
Good morning Captain Abby:
ReplyDeleteI read your blog this Thursday morning and I just smiled. It's just like the Lord to give you a bunch of mom's when you are so far from your own. Even if it is on a blog...Hah! you can tell all of these folks love you. Be blessed sweetie and Psalm 91!
Lisa from Mt. Juliet, TN
Good Morning Captain Abigail,
ReplyDeleteThanks for the compliment..."you bloggers sound like my MOM!"
Have a great day sailing as you move out into "the middle of the ocean".
Oh by the way...MOM says....STAY SHARP and make your bed! hehe
john, Bay of Quinte, Lake Ontario, Canada
Hi Babsy,
ReplyDeleteJess is frolicking with them kettle,
keep up them dodgers,
Jony the Pony
Bonjour Abby & Wild Eyes,
ReplyDeleteIndeed, indeed :-)
Enjoy, Take care, Be safe.
Hi again Abby, I am the mom that gets up about 3am every morning to check on your progress. Glad everything is well- I can go back to bed now!
ReplyDeleteGod Speed Abby
ReplyDeleteWhile you have much work and challenges ahead, life’s trials and troubles become small and insignificant when you know with Certainty, Being made Confident in the Knowledge of God's infinite Love for you. He is the Auto Pilot for your life. He will never break down, never needs repair, will never leave you. Trust in His Direction. Find Rest in Him.
You are an inspiration Abby, we pray for you daily.
Great update Abby, glad to hear you are getting some sleep....stay warm and go Abby go
ReplyDeleteHi Abby,
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear your getting some good wind and it sounds like good sleep. Doing any fishing? We talk about you all the time.
Be well and do good work!!
Kris and Connor Hamilton
Killeen Texas
Hi Abby, What a great post. Gives us even more insight to how you think of things. A positive attitude is good and you definately have that. Now we can follow you over to South Africa. What a journey. You are an inspiration to all young girls and for that matter young boys. We all admire you. Stay Safe, Luv Ya
ReplyDeleteBud and Charla Winnett
Thanks for the update Abby! It's great to hear from you (as usual)! Stay safe, and I hope the winds are with you! Keep on keepin' on!
ReplyDeleteKevin
Aiken, SC
So good to hear from you that you feel better away from land.
ReplyDeleteWell, stay VERY clear from any part of Africa, distance from Cape of Good Hope and straight East into the Indian Ocean.
Safe sailing to you and love your adventure. Are you going to write a book?
Hey Abby, warm showers are over rated :)
ReplyDeleteAfter this experience, what will you do next?
I check yours and Jessica's blogs every morning to see how you ladies are doing ,
Fair Winds Abby
Great to hear you are well. Don't want to hear "Iceberg ahead!!" You are an inspiration keep it up.
ReplyDeleteAbby, I am impressed with the way you have handled thing over the past few days.... And you Team. Well done! Kept it safe and sail on we are right there behind you.
ReplyDeleteChris, Canberra ACT AUST
I love reading your updates! :)
ReplyDeleteHi Abby!
ReplyDeleteGlad things are going well!! Hey, how much school work have you gotten done??? I am a total slacker, so...it would be like three days before I am supposed to be done with my trip before I even started lol!
Hi Abby, I'm happy for you that the auto pilot is working. How are your sails holding up for you? Have you seen much marine life? You are doing great, I enjoy reading your log every morning with my coffee. Keep it up..Go Girl!
ReplyDeleteBob From Boston
wow i can't believe you are doing this i bet a 30 year old would not know how do do this kind of stuff
ReplyDeleteYour adventures are interesting! how does it feel being in the middle of the ocean? :)
ReplyDeleteDear Abby, Well it's sure sounds good you being back out in more open waters. Glad you got auto pilots working again. We all need you to stay sharp out there in open saes.I don't think your buddy charlie would be much help if the auto pilots where'nt working.Nice tip about the water temps. would ever have thougt there be a low laying iceberg close by.High five to the Team Abby keep it up. Hope you get the winds you need. p.s. If you start calling charlie "wilson" it might be time. Just kidding your doing great.
ReplyDeleteHi Abby, I have been following your voyage since yahoo had an article about you on their front page one day. I think it's awesome that you are living your dream. I have just been wondering how your food situation is because I read in your question and answer section you said you took six months worth of food and it seems like you have been having some delays so I was kind of wondering if your food supply is going to be enough if you keep having delays on how long you thought it would take.
ReplyDeleteHi Abby,
ReplyDeleteSounds like you are having a great adventure!Keep up your excellent spirit and attitude.I've been following along the whole voyage so far and find your blog news very interesting. Please send some of that wind our way this summer, as only a windsurfer from Canada would say! Take care out there, stay clipped on, and keep looking to the Lord for His guidance.
Brian from Ontario
Hi Abby, sounds like your doing great. It’s good to hear you have plenty of spare parts between your two autopilots. Icebergs, wow - maybe once you get further north that won’t be anything you need to worry about. Glad to hear you’re healed up and I hope you don’t have to handle the tiller too much that could be a problem over the long run.
ReplyDeleteFar winds. TonyF
Dear Abby,
ReplyDeleteWell...I AM a mom...AND a grandmama! You are just so smart, cute as a bug, and sweet, that us ladies can't help but 'mother' you. I've wondered...how much sleep is Abby getting, please tie-on every time you go up on deck, is your bed comfortable, what have you eaten today, etc. And then SUDDENLY, a gorgeous picture appears on your Blog, and I get to see sights that I otherwise would never get to experience.
So glad your feet and hands are so much better, water maker and auto pilot both working, you had some winds(although not steady) yesterday, and...warmer water!
Wish I could somehow get a 'goodie' bag to you. :)
You keep SAFE! and stay to the course(your sea journey AND your life's journey).
God's speed,
Sandy
Love reading about your adventure! You are quite an inspiration to children and grown-ups! Keep it up and know that you have many people supporting you and rooting you on!
ReplyDeleteHey Abby!
ReplyDeleteHaven't posted in a while, often just don't have time in the mornings to read through 100+ comments, but it's great to see how much support you have!
Just wanted to assure you that, even though you don't hear from me, I'm still praying daily for you and your family.
I'll be singing your song at a yogurt shop this week-end, and had some coversations at our big congregational seder this year with other folks, some of whom had heard of you on the news, but didn't know where to follow your trip.
All in all, you continue to inspire those of us who are land-locked to remember that the horizon is still going to be there, no matter how long we may be delayed.
Still praying Numbers 6:24-26
Mouse in Whittier
www.reverbnation.com/mouseonamotorcycle
Buy "Death and Coffee" here!
That warm shower Abby, gives you yet another thing to look forward to when you get home, although there is no doubt you will look at "home" with a much different eye. Your doing a great job Abby. Keep the Lord in your heart. Norm :->
ReplyDeleteAbbie: Thank you - We can rest easier now. May the Lord make His presence very real to you and may He continue to guide and lead you.
ReplyDeleteRon in Colo
"The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face towards you and give you peace" (Numbers 6:24-26)
Hi Abby!
ReplyDeleteThe education, experience and confidence you are gaining is absolutely incredible! I can't say enough about how amazing your parents are to support you in this goal and dream - they really get it! You are so blessed to have such an amazing team behind you as well. I know how hard it can be to let our children fly off into this world to pursue a dream. My son Adam is 22 years old and he has pursued his passion of trains since the age of two! and has lived away from home from the age of 18 to pursue his goal and nothing will stop him. He is way wise beyond his years just as you are my friend and is passionately absorbing all the information and experience he possibly can and and I believe god would expect no less from you. This is not textbook learning but truly an experience of a lifetime which is defining you as a person which is so valuable and amazing. I just adore you Abby! Just think of the amazing stories you will share with your family and in the book you will author! I'll be the first one to read :o). You will - and are - encouraging others to dare to live their dream. I love that about you! Happy Sailing Abby and God Bless You!
Laura from Illinois
Hey Abby,
ReplyDeleteYes, I'm sure we bloggers do sound like your mother!!!☺ I worry about you like my own kids and want to see you safely around the world so keep doing exactly what you're doing cuz you're doing great!!!! Sending happy wishes for good winds and safe continued sailing!! xo Amanda
Hey, Abby, it seems like you have gained some hard-won but valuable knowledge from these past few days of difficulties. Difficulties that you have overcome with flying colors. I am glad that things have settled down and you can settle into the routine that will carry you and Wild Eyes to S. Africa and the next big cape.
ReplyDeleteNow that things are sort of back to normal, I hope you will find time to post a few pictures, or maybe even a video. I would like to see you and Charlie sitting in the cockpit.
Steve L from Modesto, CA
Hi Abby,
ReplyDeleteGosh, you know if one just read your blog without knowing your age etc, they could easily assume it was written by someone who has been to sea for thirty years or more! You are one incredible young lady Abby. You impress me more with each new day.
I followed your brother Zac since the day he left MDR. I would google every port that he stopped at and by doing so learned and experienced places that I knew little or nothing about at all. I feel so grateful to have been able to step off of Intrepid and on to Wild Eyes for another great adventure. Your wordsmithing is such that one can 'feel' as if they are right there with you. Thank you Abby! Please be safe and alert and remember as Dwight from NC said; be sure to floss.
Oh by the way I just love the humor of many in your blog family. I know each day I will be able to experience at least one really good laugh. For instance today:
@anonymous at 11:16PM in regards to the only way for you to catch a fish; "That is unlike your "expertise" in fishing. Maybe, a nice fresh pompano will ram headfirst into the bow and flip up on deck? Sounds like your best bet."
That was a good one!! Thank you for the visual and the laugh anonymous. I am sorry Abby but I think he or she might be right.
God Bless you.
Cheryl
We always look forward to your blog updates, glad it is getting warmer for you. I know i hate cold weather and shivered when you talked about being so cold. Interesting comments about being happier farther from land, never would have thought about that.
ReplyDeleteLD in Kansas
Hi Captain Abby, Glad to hear that
ReplyDeleteyour on your way north. Warmer
weather will be most welcomed.
Be Safe! Stay Happy! Godspeed!
Hi Abby,thanks for the update. I had to go to bed last night without knowing how your day went. Not a good way to try sleep.
ReplyDeleteHappy to hear both systems are up and running for you and that you have spare parts to go with that knowledge you have picked up.
By all means keep up the good work, and please take care and stay as safe as possible. Enjoy the winds and warmer temps. Sail On,it is an absolute delight to check on your progress daily and read of your days activities.
Catch you later.
Mornin' Cap'n Abby! . . . awesome progress you've made since I last checked your blog! It is good to hear that you've had good winds, been able to set a productive course, and get those batteries charged up at night with the wind generators.
ReplyDeleteThe autopilot issue can be vexing but with your mind (and those of da' Team) I'm sure it will sort itself out. Your comment about sleep if you have to hand steer reminded me of Roz Savage's rowing adventure across the Atlantic. Rowing for a stretch at a time, catnap, row some more, use sea anchor as needed, row some more. So . . . no matter . . . you'll get the job done.
I hold you and Jessie in my thoughts all the time and check your blogs at least once daily.
May you have wonderful winds and perfect seas!
~ Cynthia (Half Moon Bay, California USA)
Has abby diagnosed what's wrong with the first autopilot?
ReplyDeleteHi Abby,
ReplyDeleteYou are an inspiration to so many of us who are preparing for the day we too can cast off the lines to sail the oceans. Thanks for sharing your adventures with us. Our prayers go with you.
Patty Murray
Aboard SV “Locura”
San Diego, CA
Your a legend Abby!!
ReplyDeleteAbby,
ReplyDeleteI found it so weird that people are concerned about your education and schooling. I hope they understand your adventure will pad your resume more than any college or formal schooling ever could.
The ability to set course and change direction because of the whims and vagaries of the tides, wind and weather is your real world calculus class.
The anticipation and preparation for the changing weather fronts you face is real world planning, physics and a meteorology class.
Your preparation and consumption of your own meals and the rationing of water and treats is an ongoing home economics class.
Your repair and maintenance of all of your onboard systems, sailing and navigation equipment is a hands on mechanical, engineering and sailing class.
The reply to your family of bloggers, answering their questions while keeping in contact with weather routers, family is your communications class.
You live in your own self contained eco system where you recycle and manage resources, desalinate catch and store potable water for consumption. Monitor power consumption and use of energy and are responsible for your own safety and fitness.
Im sure your celestial navigation skills are getting a workout and as for fishing.....lets not go there : )
And still people worry about your school lessons. The difference is in your classes failure is not an option (except for fishing:)
Its not what school could teach you, its what you could teach at school.
There is no way most people twice your age can learn in school all you have mastered in the real world, they just don't get the opportunities or the vast exposure to the real world survival skills you need and have mastered.
We are all so proud of what you have accomplished already and anyone who has spent time aboard understands how skilled you already are.
I will be in the welcoming flotilla when you return as I was for (shortcut) Zak :)
Hey Captain Abbey, You know what Benjamin Franklin used to take air baths. All you need is wind to get clean..lol Don't sweat the small stuff You will bath for ever after sailing around the world.lol......wind at your back and always dance with the stars.......Sandi on the chesapeake
ReplyDeleteHi Abby,
ReplyDeleteYou have shown so much maturity in this undertaking that I have decided to place myself as a passenger on your sailboat. As an easily alarmed Individual it is for my own safety that I ask my brave captain: (more motherly talk)
Don’t take any unnecessary risks
Don’t take anything for granted
Don’t become complacent
Keep your guards high
[I know I am in good hands in this adventure.]
Steve From S.F. Bay Area
Abby,
ReplyDeleteI have been following your journey since you neared Cape Horn, and to be honest, every morning I check your site because I can't wait to read your next blog.... I have your site set up on my favorites and I check it all the time for new information on your progress.
You are so wise for your years, and truly an inspiration! I can only image just how proud your parents are!
I hope everything continues to go smoothly for you and I want you to know that you are in my prayers and in my thoughts!
Best wishes from Kansas!!
Hey Abby, it's great to hear that all is well! That's wonderful that you have the special tools on board needed to switch out hydraulic cylinders etc. Do you have a vise etc.? We know your mom wouldn't have let you head out on to the Atlantic if it was risky. Now what you need to do is heat up a whole bucket of water for that shower! And catch a fish!!!!
ReplyDeleteYergen
@RLW "Happy to hear both systems are up and running"
ReplyDeleteThat's fabulous! I haven't checked in for a few days. I'm so pleased for Abby that both autopilots are back online. I'm sure that will quiet the naysayers! Go Abby!!!!!!!!!
Tia
Hi Captn Abby,
ReplyDeleteI guess you are now a real Cape Horner (http://www.capehorners.org/) since you climbed out of the 50s. It says to be recognized as a Cape Horner you not only round the Horn but have to cross 50° south west and east of Cape Horn and have sailed non-stop at least 3000nm, which you all did. Congratulations Trusty Shellback Cape Horner Abby!
Fair winds,
RK
G'day Abby. Great news that Alessandro Di Benedetto has repaired and re-stepped the mast on his little yacht. He apparently had to re-cut his mainsail to fit the 'new' shorter mast, but he's back on track for a Cape Horn rounding. A truly amazing feat.
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear you're again making good progress. Happy sailing.
I truly admire you Abby. I am 57 years old and enjoy sailing my 22' Catalina in local waters and to Catalina Island. I pray God keeps you safe out there.
ReplyDeleteHi Abby, Well you are getting it done and its also good to hear you got the auto-pilot to work, so you can get some sleep. Stay Safe and when outside Tethered...38º44"N/122º67"W
ReplyDeleteGood sailing Abby.God Speed.
ReplyDeleteKen Thousand Oaks
WOW! They are both working? That's SUPER! How did you do it??? My whole family loves reading about your adventure! Now for that bucket bath!
ReplyDeleteShane
I'll bet that you thought you were getting away from parents for a while and here you are with people telling you to brush your teeth, take a bath (even HOW to take a bath), eat right, be safe, get plenty of sleep, yada, yada, yada.
ReplyDeleteIts like being followed around the world by a hive of Africanized bees.
Wow..... I hope Spielberg is following your blogs cause the man needs to make a movie about your trip when you return. What an adventure. Stay safe!
ReplyDelete04-08-10 @ 19:10
ReplyDeleteHi Abby,
Just checking in to see how you are doing, and it looks good on “Where’s Abby” chart. Slowly or swiftly you’re making progress. . Have you been able to do anything with the ‘spare’ yet??? I hope all your little interruptions are finished, but you do handle them quite well.
So, keep up the good work and I hope the A/P holds up for you.
My regards to your crew, hope all is well with them, take good care of yourself and be safe.
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 posting as often as you do. And for your interesting and well written blog. Maybe you can get credit for your English class when you get back.
For the Abby followers that can't get enough Abby blogs - I recommend Zac's blog (which I just discovered).
http://www.zacsunderland.com/blog/
Lots of Abby mentions in Zac's blog. Sounds like Abby was a member of Team Zac. What an apprenticeship for where Abby is now.
So take care, Abby. There are lots of people praying for a safe completion of your voyage.
Brad in San Diego
So far so good, I look forward to seeing your completion post a long time from now. :P
ReplyDeleteAbby, so wonerful to here you got both things working again! I was worryed for you! Take care!
ReplyDeleteSonja
Hi Abby!!
ReplyDeleteI just recently learned of your amazing voyage through a local boating paper. After reading the article, I decided to check out your blog. WOW!!!
Can I just say how impressed I am??? You are one brave gal and I am so happy for you! It takes a lot of guts to take the adventure that you have chosen. It certainly says a lot for your character. And your family's.
I am glad to see the support you have through your followers and I look forward to continuing your journey w/you via your blog. :)
Best of luck to you and enjoy every moment (the good and the bad). It will be over before you know it.
God bless you and stay safe!!!
Liana in Georgia (I saw that there is another Liana from Australia following your trip as well! Hahahaha, I don't see that very often)
Good news that you have both autopilots back up. It must be a relief for you, not having to worry about what happens if....?
ReplyDeleteYou've done an AWESOME job of getting around the Horn and out into the Atlantic. Hope you now get to relax a bit, and enjoy the warmer weather as you head towards teh Cape of Good Hope.
Clear skies,
~Brian & Phillippa
@RLW: Actually, Abby's post says she has only one functioning autopilot. She wasn't able to fix the broken autopilot.
ReplyDeleteShe wrote that if her remaining autopilot goes out, she believes she will be able to fix it by taking parts from the nonfunctioning one.
In other words, she would take two broken autopilots and try to create one functional autopilot.
That should make for a great Science Fair experiment that would make any homeschooler proud.
If her current autopilot does go out, I hope it does so with a bit of warning, and during a period of calm weather, so she can sort things out without having to worry about hand-steering the boat.
With the Atlantic Ocean, Indian Ocean, and Pacific Ocean awaiting, it seems likely she will get the opportunity to do the science experiment.
Should make for interesting reading when her book comes out. ;-)
- Grant Fjermedal, Seattle
Sounds like a great day you've had today! Ok Lil miss even though your months away from your next date and there's little possibility of a chance encounter with aqua man you can't forget the teeth; It's twice a day every day at a minimum! Besides you what kind of strange looks you would get when you pull into California missing some of your chompers?
ReplyDeleteHi Abby,
ReplyDeleteWhen you rounded the Horn, I jumped up and cheered for you! All of the great sailing names in the history of the world would salute you with great respect for that experience alone. Drake, Magellan, Columbus, Vespucci,
et al, would stand up and say, "girl? schmirl. She is Captain of her ship." They would know that it would take such significant depth of learning and character that they would not consider it necessary to think in terms of age or gender. Don't let the naysayers get you down. They also told Columbus he couldn't make it.
What I would like to know is this entire experience from your parents perspective. Having raised one daughter I know the crucial part of being a parent is knowing who your child is so you know when, where and why to either stand in their way or stand out of their way on any given issue. Occasionally we make mistakes until we get it correct. They clearly got it correct in this case. I would love to have heard the pros and cons of these conversations. Anyhow, just food for thought. If you get off course and end up in Puget Sound I'll provide a hot shower for you and give you any other assistance you need! I enjoy hearing your stories, Godspeed. MMc.
Abby you are so special and precious and of course most lucky too with all of your new "vicarious mothers & grandmothers" hanging on your every blog--like me! And you can always tell the "VM&Gs" comments from the rest because we will brag on you pridefully, be amazed at your maturity, knowledge, and skills, and then end up our catchy message with solid warming statements like--be safe, praying for you, take care of yourself, believe in your dreams, may you have sleep, warmth, etc., and all of our comments are sent with electronic hugs just for you! Abby you have created such a fun joyful and sometimes concerning experience for so many of us and here it comes--the VM&G close--- we are of so proud of you, take care of yourself, you be safe now, make yourself beautiful days and thanks for welcoming all of us and for letting us share in your exciting adventurous wonderful life.
ReplyDeleteHi Abby:
ReplyDeleteWhat a delight it is to follow your adventure. I am truly enjoying reading your comments and pic. It is fun reading everyone's blogs, as well.
Sail on girl!
seattlesid
We are favorably impressed with the analysis of your advanced educational accumulation provided by the solo-circumnav. No, I hadn't thought about that; now I see the blogger's claim as pure fact. The maturity of your comments and reasoning is far beyond the expected for your years. The blogger that cited that is directly on target. And, in the event anyone might be wondering...yes "we" really do care about you, plenty - bigtime. Moms we are, all.
ReplyDeleteHi Abby, Glad to hear you are sailing hapily around the world. What are you cooking for tea tonight? What book are you reading at the moment? Enjoy your journey. Cheers Shona Adelaide. PS We got rain at last yehaa.
ReplyDeleteBert said: "She has more guts than I do".
ReplyDeleteYesterday I was showing your location and boat pictures to an old friend of your grandfather Al - and that is what he said.
Nice sailing & Happy seas all the way home- Abby,
Aziz
Thanks for the update
ReplyDeleteHi Abby and followers
ReplyDeleteWay to go..I is good to see the changes on the map. Glad to hear all is well and I like the part of your followers sounding like your Mother(Hello). As I have said before we send them off and hope we did our part, you are doing yours. Just a news up date I made it back home on the 6th and was in transit for a few days. First meal was on the way from LAX at Calimex, Kincades for lunch the next day and Rod's this morning for breakfast. There is nothing like food from a fun place at home. Your time will be soon and enjoy every bite.
Sail Safe
from around Redondo Beach CA.
I bet you miss a warm shower! Over here in Michigan, we had a few flakes of snow today. My friend who teaches skiing in Denver Colorado said they had 11 inches. "I wish I were there"
ReplyDeleteAbby ... I completely comprehend your parting comment about the warm shower. I, like you rank hot showers at the top of the list of conveniences of the modern era. Unfortunately, the modern era will not last. Our time on earth is the peak of the wave of Homo Sapien advancement. Soon world population, resource depletion, political discontent and religious fundamentalism will collide into a downward slide which will mirror the fall of ancient cultures. Stone age, here we come. Not exactly of course. History never repeats itself exactly and what's coming as we exit the fossil fuel age will be a once in a life times experience. So buckle up, and get ready for the show. It will all be obvious by 2030.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you have a handle on the autopilot situation. I hope you see warmer temps sooon. Stay safe and plwasant sailing.
ReplyDeleteSpecial note to JWB777 - Those of us who are dads are always dads also.
Go Abby, Go! Great job, Abby! You have so many people caring about you, reading your blogs, following your great adventure. Just know that you are in our thoughts, and be careful.
ReplyDeleteBe well, be happy, and all the best!
--Craig, Sacramento, CA
SEE...Abby said she had ONE working and RLW mentions TWO and then we're all confused b/c we think we must have just missed something! That would be EASY in my case! So did we miss something or is Grant correct (again?)
ReplyDeleteAnnabel
Hi Abby
ReplyDeleteI have been following you and Jessica Watson since you both began your journey. I wish you all the success you deserve and hope that you manage to "live the dream" safely.
Regards from Brisbane Australia.
Hi Abby, Glad to see that you are doing well. I hope you get warmer water soon. I can't beleive that you will not see land for two weeks, that just blows my mind. I could never be a sailor, other then being too old, I have to have my feet on land and close to Nordstrom. You are a remarkable young lady. You be safe and careful. My prayers are with you and your family. Gail/Ventura
ReplyDeleteHi Abby,
ReplyDeleteWishing you good winds, warmth and Godspeed.
Clare, Spokane, WA.
Hi Abby,
ReplyDeleteIt's so good to hear that things seem to be going well at this time and that soon you'll have better winds.
Glad that your hands and feet are healing. It must have brought a certain amount of difficulty for you.
I'm afraid we'll sound like your mother for the rest of your journey because you see, we're an extension of your family in a way. We'll hurt when you hurt, and be afraid for you when we don't get to hear from you for some days, and we'll be excited for you when something amazingly wonderful happens and feel dread when you go through some really difficult and frightening times. In a way, because of your descriptions and photos, we ride the ocean with you because you are adventurous and brave (and so are your parents).
I hope our words of encouragement and fun will ever be a comforting source to you when needed, and as your blog family grows, we'll all enjoy each other's company.
God speed, and take care little lady.
Sunshine Coast, qld. Aus.
Good luck around South Georgia!
ReplyDeleteI'm quite envious~ Shackleton is buried there you know?
-Robyn
Dear Abby:
ReplyDeleteGlad to know that you are more relaxed in the middle of the ocean. I would be more relaxed no more than 100 feet from the shore.
You don't have to apologize about not being able to take a warm shower for a long time. We understand. Besides, none of your followers can smell you form where we're at.
With prayers,
Wayne Wild I. Moraga, CA
Abby, Hello I am writing from Guatemala, I am a teacher and my students are your age, you are an example that dreams can be met. Admire you much because they do something amazing, you're a lucky girl live this dream, God bless you.
ReplyDeleteHi Abby, well done on the auto pilot!! What a great effort to sort it, I'm impressed with your comments about understanding both of them so well now that you can use the two to make one work. Great competence & solution finding. Tough time bring out the best in competent people!! As for the negative comments about suspecting your Dad secretly came out to help - give them NO SPACE in your head, stay focussed on your ability & motivation. Happy sailing.
ReplyDeleteHi Abby,
ReplyDeleteWishing you well on your voyage. I have been reading your blogs and viewing some of the videos. As far as meals go, you seem very restricted to only the dehydrated food stocked. I'm a bit surprised that you weren't able to include the same sort of things that Jessica is enjoying.....muffin mixes, tinned potatos to make into chips, tinned pie, tinned vegetables and fruits, dehydrated eggs, long life cream/milk etc.
Some of her meals have sounded quite yummy and certainly more variety than what you have to endure.
Space wise, you have the larger boat too for storing of meals.
Hoping all your problems are behind you. Safe sailing.
Lily Hervey Bay, Queensland, Australia
Let me also guess about the broken autopilot.
ReplyDelete1. There's a leak that we know about. This from noting a pool/puddle/spatter of fluid where it is located.
2. This NOT from noting complete failure of the autopilot earlier, i.e. seized up. And accordingly we can control it up keep fluid in the system constantly.
Am I even close? :-)
3. Leak has been located but non-fixable.
4. Leak is minor leak under heavy pressure.
5. Leak is so minor and under set conditions, provided the pump is monitored and filled up regularly, broken autopilot is fully functional.
6. Calculations have been made rate of leak, available bottles fluid on board. 24 hours, 48 hours, 72 hours 1 week? We need to refill the pump with fluid.
7. Further we can collect from the leak and recycle back into the pump manually 24 hours, 48 hours, 72 hours 1 week?
8. Even further, 1 oz hydraulic addded to 2 ltr diesel, creates functional hydraulic fluid. In this case we have up to 12 months supply of home made diluted hydraulic fluid.
9. job there fore to keep broken autopilot opertional is to keep the pump resevoir toppped up every what? hour, 24 hours, 48 hours longer?
10. I'm guessing that because (a) it took so long to locate the leak (b) the problem was noted only due to seeing fluid on the floor and not due to sudden stoppage of the autopilot. Meaning the leak didn't gush out all the fluid, and the drive seized up is how we know about the problem. It must be a small slow leak. A
Just reading Saito-san's latest entries. Abby may get kick out of this :-) he just crossed over to Peruvian waters the other day and got his first flying squid. AND HE ACTUALLY ATE IT!!! :-))) and today he scored 15 flying fish AND HE ACTUALLY ATE THEM!!! :-))) he says though, that they are full of parasites and need to boiled or fried for safety. I'm think the girls out there found the longest pole on the boats and gingerly approached all these critters and eek'd as they pushed them off the boats.
ReplyDeleteI guess only after 8 circumnavigations they might start to appear as might tasty :-)
EQUIPMENT FAILURE REPORTED
ReplyDeleteABOARD JESSICA WATSON'S BOAT:
"Some bad news today."
- Jessica Watson
Jessica Watson is on the homestretch. Sometime this weekend she expects to pass beneath Australia's Cape Leeuwin, which will mark the end of her Indian Ocean voyage and bring her back to the Pacific where she began, and nearer and nearer to home.
So . . . close . . . and yet, the toll of the voyage has caused equipment failure that she says she had been fearing would happen for a long time.
Her dispatch begins: "Some bad news today."
Despite the setback, she is showing resolve and sounds upbeat.
It would be best to hear the news as directly reported by Jessica.
While this is Abby's blog, I know that we all wish the very best for Jessica, too.
That's why I'm posting the first paragraph of her message, knowing that those who want additional information can go to Jessica's site.
(Just Google "Jessica Watson" +solo)
Anyways back to the equipment failure that Jessica reported on her blog Thursday evening.
We shouldn't be overly surprised to hear something like this from Jessica. You try to sail a boat around the world - nonstop and unassisted - and you really have to assume that something is going to give out, although I was surprised by the failure she reports.
This shows that no matter how thoroughly you prepare your vessel. No matter how completely you check and recheck, when you go out on the ocean you simply need to anticipate the unexpected.
It would be easy to say: 'I told you so.'
It would be easy to say: Send a kid off shore and you just know there will be a message that begins like hers: "Some bad news today."
But, I'm taking the high road on this. I'm not saying: "I told you so" because this isn't a problem I would have anticipated.
At this point, I should probably let Jessica tell her own story.
Although, I confess tht I'm hesitant to share news that begins: "Some bad news today."
But if we are going to follow these kids around the world, and cheer them on when all goes well, do we carry some of the burden when we hear from the Indian Ocean: "Some bad news today."???
Well, enough of the philosophy.
Here's the first paragraph of her dispatch:
"Some bad news today. Something that has been threatening to happen for quite some time has finally happened. The handle has fallen off my only kettle! But it won't be too long now till I'll be able to pop down to the shops for a new one."
When I read those first few lines I was a bit worried, weren't you? ;-)
Actually . . . the rest of her blog entry is extremely inspiring: About another Australian out there in a Sparkman & Stephens 34 just like Jessica's. This one is being sailed singele-handed by a quadriplegic, attempting a circumnavigation of Australia. Plenty Gutsy.
- Grant Fjermedal, Seattle
Hmmmm. A warm shower; now that really sounds good. We, on the other hand, sound like your Mom because most of us are older than you. Surprise, surprise.
ReplyDeleteGod Speed
G'Day Abby Its good to note your positive attitude and confidence is strong.that will truly be your greatest friend (along with Wild Eyes)as you continue on the long haul homeward.No need to worry about the End of Civilisation just yet (Oh,you weren't oh ok I don't know where I got that idea )I mean, you do have your hands full at the moment and your mind on the job in hand.Chinese Whispers strikes again lol,I hope your five auto pilots are working fine at least.happy sailing Abby Stevep Aus
ReplyDelete"Anonymous said...
ReplyDeleteI'll bet that you thought you were getting away from parents for a while and here you are with people telling you to brush your teeth, take a bath (even HOW to take a bath), eat right, be safe, get plenty of sleep, yada, yada, yada.
Its like being followed around the world by a hive of Africanized bees."
ROTFL
Don't forget to wash behind your ears, Abby! And floss! Remember, if you don't have time to floss your teeth, just floss the ones you want to keep. ;-D
heyy abby, :)
ReplyDeleteAbby: I wish you could post more, or maybe send a video. Do you have cell or satellite service now? It would be great to hear more and see how you are doing. We miss hearing - we're following you constantly. Do you post more often somewhere else? How is the equipment? The wind? Saves? How is the food supply holding out? Are you getting tired of freeze dried? Can we deliver a Pizza????
ReplyDeleteBe safe. you are in our prayers. Have a Great day, and God Bless you richly today!
Ron in Colorado
Hi Abby,
ReplyDeleteGood to see that you are moving north, hopefully everything will be ok with your 2nd autopilot and wont need to do more repairs.
To Grant,
It is great to see you posting! i have to admit that as english is not my first language, i didnt have any idea of that this kettle was!
So I rush into google, trying to find out what part of the boat it was!! I was expecting to see tons of sailing related sites instead they were all related to cooking, kitchen and appliances related ones.
After this experience, I better do my english homework!
Ciao and best wishes to all these wonderful sailors around the world.
Marina
hey there abby: just alittle note to say hello and you are doing job.....and i love that you are sharing it with all of us.......be safe and thank you......ken
ReplyDeleteAbby, good job on the horn. Now, just a little lap around and back home. How sweet!
ReplyDeleteHi Miss Abby!
ReplyDeleteFinally the bug that prevented me from commenting might not be a bug. Where Safari, Firefox and Explorer don't access the Comment window, Chrome does. I wonder if Google hasn't done that on purpose... which would really be a shame. But we all know that Microsoft and Google are two alligators in the same pond...
Well, I shall use Chrome just for you, sailor! But leave it aside for anything else (I can be bad tempered sometimes).
Back to work, I feel better learning that your hands are healing. It is certainly a large comfort asset, even before the hot shower! @Roski: I totally agree with you, my friend, I don't know exactly where we are coming to, but sure we do!
Abby, you look confident (more than me) about the auto pilots and your fixing skills. OK. Let's hope they will not manage to pester you again later.
You are probably right "northing" to get better temperatures. You will also put some more milles between you and the biggest bad weather systems.
Please tell us about your meals, and how you get accustomed (or not) to your very special and maybe monotonous circumnavigator diet? Do you still enjoy eating, or does it become more something necessary than pleasant?
Fair winds and happy atlantic ride!
Wishing you a safe completion to a wonderful adventure...You're making us proud in Thousand Oaks...Good Luck.
ReplyDeleteBonjour Abby & Wild Eyes ( and Team Abby :-),
ReplyDeleteA totally new chapter to the Cassandra metaphor:
"The Kettle in Solo Circumnavigation"
a tragi-drama by Grant Fedjmeral, Abby's blog April 9, 2010 1:38 AM
:-)
Take care, Be safe
c.c.Jessica Watson and Team Jessica
re: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cassandra_%28metaphor%29
@ Grant Fjermedal
ReplyDeleteExcellent post, Grant. Talk about building anticipation. Whew! If your day job isn't being a journalist or script writer, I'd say you've a few viable career options. Well done.
Good sailing, Abby.
Well done, as you know to have rounded the Horn under sail is an historic achievment. Have been watching you from early on and you are a great inspiration to all.
ReplyDeleteBest wishes from New Zealand
Note to RichieParis: I get the comment window in Firefox just fine. If you use the NoScript add-on in Firefox, it is blocking Javascript and you won't get the window. Right click on the Firefox icon and select "Temporarily allow all of this page" and it should work OK.
ReplyDeleteI don't know about Explorer or Chrome since I don't use them.
Dear Team Abby, I need to purchase some satellite phones for my company and since I believe Abby has one on board with her that you obviously feel is reliable, what company/model phone are you using? If it is good enough for Abby, it is good enough for me.
ReplyDeleteAn as a message to Abby, when you arrive back in MDR, I assume you will be beating a path straight to In-N-Out Burger....haha. Keep up the great work Abby........sail on...Terry
Hi Abby,
ReplyDeleteHow far are you from your next destination? I like it when there is a count down in miles.
Remember, safety first. You are already a hero in my eyes.
Captain Bill from San Diego
@dgrogan: And you'd make a great career counselor. ;-) You said: 'If your day job isn't being a journalist or script writer . . ."
ReplyDeleteI used to be a writer for the Seattle Times and the the Associated Press . . . and I love to write scripts. Google for my name + "The Tomorrow Makers" or "Magic Bullets" and you can pickup one of the books I've written for about a buck or so (being sold by some reader who doesn't understand they are supposed to build a shrine around the darn things.)
The books are nonfiction, but provide a fun read. The New Yorker magazine briefly excerpted from my book the "Tomorrow Makers" (about robots, artificial intelligence, and whether we are creating our silicon evolutionary successors.) And American Library Association named it one of the year's 10 Best nonfiction books. TOOT! TOOT!! Listen to how beautifully the author toots his horn! ;-)
@Marina: THANKS for the kind words, and how fun that you set off on a "kettle search."
@45 Degrees: Great miniature book review. ;-)
- Grant Fjermedal, Seattle
ABBY,you are doing so so good.
ReplyDeleteGlad your having fun and staying safe.
Watching you and the other girl has been so much fun for us that my lil girl and wife talked me into getting a small 33 ft pearson.
We are going to have some of your fun,hope you dont mind.
Well keep sailing and have fun.
we will stay up with your trip.
I have a sailboat and know some knowledge about sailing. Your story is ultra inspiring. I just got done reading "Woman Alone" by Clare Francis. The way she described it, sailing solo was tirng and cold! (Your story sounds way more cheery!) It's SO amazing how many followers and commenters you have! (So far, this is how many I have: 0) Keep moving forward, and remember that we're all cheering for you!!!!!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteHow well balanced is WILD EYES? Would you be able to lock down the helm on a calm night to get some sleep? Slocum talked about SPRAY being balanced enough to do that.
ReplyDeleteOh and don't forget to wash behind your ears, young lady.
To Abby.
ReplyDeleteHello Abby. First off = a SOLO mission is a SOLO mission. In YOUR mission is SOLO = NO help.,,,,, Your father, or ANY PERSON for that matter, may not set foot on your vessel = Wild Eyes ( Unless dire emergency ) your father wants to take pics ? = rent or borrow a plane. I am partial to Super Cub sea plane as a hint. Sweat heart Abby, solo is solo. ... Think back in the day where THEE OLD boats went forward with crew and all not knowing what lays ahead. When MOST thought the earth was flat. YOU ABBY ARE A TRUE SAILOR !!!!!-!!!!!-!!!!!
God bless you Abby. + Come home safe.
Jason a Byrd---WA State.
A few people have asked WHAT ABOUT HIGH SCHOOL. I tell them what you are learning on this journey is more valuable then a Princton/Harvard degree combined. Keep it up - Team Bauer
ReplyDeleteKeep it going. I have an old Navy officer friend to whom I told your travels-- his first reaction was that the whole thing was stupid and insane. Now that your around the Horn, he's saying, "Brave, skilled girl!" You know you've been given a medal if you can get an old Navy curmudgeon to say THAT. You just hang in there with your checking and re-checking (sheesh, who'd a thunk a teenager could be SO stinkin' mature!!! ;>D), your troubleshooting and your careful navigating-- write when you can get a break, and don't worry about the millions who are hanging on your every word! :D
ReplyDeleteAbby, keep up the great work.
ReplyDelete@Grant- Talk about hijacking a blog! Well written blog by you about Jesse's kettle but I believe it belongs with the 500+ comments in Jessica's blog. Are you afraid it would get lost in the masses there?(and yes, I read your writers credits as described by you, and acknowledge your expertise in all things written!)
Abby, sail on talented and wonderful girl, and our prayers are with you.
Dwight in NC
Grant, I don’t remember you once recommending to Jessica’s team that EPL be equipped with a backup kettle. How'd you miss it. I guess you’re slipping a bit. :-))
ReplyDeleteFrom Seattle, WA, USA
SaltyDog
@ Hey Lenny, (April 8, 2010 11:09 AM)
ReplyDeleteThat was a great way to assess Abby's school report card! She will pass with flying colours and be way ahead of others her own age in all those areas!!
Have you sent it Jessica Watson? She is due back in Sydney in 4 or 5 weeks, after about 7 months at sea, and you can bet there will be a reckoning about her schoolwork / homework, or lack of. Your assessment method sounds ideal for all schoolgirls out at sea alone.
Abby I hope Lenny's post sets your mind at ease about schoolwork on the high seas.
@ Bloggers,love to read all your comments. Riveting!
Love
Q
Has anyone heard anything from our little girl?? Just wondering... any updates??
ReplyDeleteAbby- be safe and God Bless you to the max!! Update us when you can. Thanks
Hi Abby,
ReplyDeleteNo postings since 04/07 what's up with that? Hope all is well on Wild Eyes,good winds,making headway just the way you like it.By now I hope your into warmer water as well.
Just think, each day your getting closer to completing your dream, has to be an exciting time for you. You are certainly entering into an elete group of people.So my wish for you is smooth sailing,keep your eye on the horizon, song in your heart and all else will fall in line for you. By all means stay safe. Go Abby..
WoW..What an inspiration you are Abby. I will never complain about the weather or traffic again. I'm truly honored to be a follower of yours. I'm hooked..haha for the rest of your journey..take care,be safe and godspeed!
ReplyDeleteAbby is here to sail and not to entertain us with blogs. If she goes a few days tending to her very serious tasks, out in the middle of a potentially dangerous voyage, and chooses to be silent it is her sole decision as commander of the boat.
ReplyDeleteSail, navigate, maintain, eat, sleep. Blogging is low on that totem pole, very low.
Actually Dwight - Grant's post was about Abby - a bit "subtle" perhaps - but read back to earlier discussions about the wind vane................
ReplyDelete(a vane fan)
You are an amazing young girl. Our thoughts and prayers are with you on your incredible journey.
ReplyDeleteThat sounds really fun. I actually love sailing and my dad and my brother are really good sailors I started learning but I'm not the best. I hope you have a really fun time!
ReplyDeleteToday's Inspirational Quote:
ReplyDelete"There are countless ways of achieving greatness, but
any road to achieving one's maximum potential must be
built on a bedrock of respect for the individual, a
commitment to excellence, and a rejection of
mediocrity."
-- Buck Rodgers
test one
ReplyDeletehi Abby i think it`s awesome that you`re following your brother`s dreams. our school is learning about your brother and we hope you have fun sailing around the world from Maisie and Luke
ReplyDeleteAbby, I (and everybody else) am (are) proud of you and Wild Eyes.
ReplyDeleteI wanted to tell you about a funny little piece of synchronistic trivia. About six years ago I wrote song titled "Wild Eyes". Isn't that a coincidental hoot?
The opening lines of the song are "It was a little bar in Branson / I first saw your wild eyes dancin' / I smiled at you, and you smiled too."
That's just a little funny (true) thing for your amusement, when you run out of books to read.
I (again) wish the very best for you in your 30,000-mile journey.
Go girl! Hey, you're darn half-way to Africa!
Hi Abby,
ReplyDeleteNice progress your making there my friend; little by little your goal in coming to fuition. I am happy to know that like the farmer who patiently wait for the rain, you have manifested those blessed virtues according to Jame, who was the half brother of the Good Lord: "patients is a virtue" so their reward comes in abundant at harvest time and so may your blessings be.
You are a fine example Abby; and you efort is will admired by more than you may think.
Untill we read from your writtings again,
ad'say Abby; BE SAFE and "KEEP YOUR EYES ON THE PRICE" Your are in our thoughts and prayer all the way!You are not alone out there ok?
We share those Fogy days that encircled wild eyes, the rainy days and coldy nights, your Joys and your spirit of adventure.
You are such an inspiration. Keep up the good work and good luck. Stay safe!!!
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