Not a whole lot has happened around here lately. I'm working on school, and planning to take my driving permit test next week. Can you believe its taken this long for me to get around to going to get my permit!? I have to say that life at home isn't all that exciting. I miss sailing and wish that I still had a boat to get away every now and then.
I am working hard on my book right now. Its been a lot of fun having that to work on. Its going to be out in mid April and once the books out I'll probably be out doing a lot more public speaking and things like that which I'm really looking forward to. My first few speaking engagements were a little rough, which was to be expected as a slightly shy 16 year old just winging it. But I've done a bit of work and got a good collection of tips going from everyone around me so I'm really looking forward to getting back out and into public speaking a little more.
My baby brother, Paul-Louis (aka. Chuck, Charlie, Louie, or whatever else comes to mind, whether or not it can be related to his name at all) is five months old now. Its hard to imagine I have been home for that long, almost half a year! Watching Charlie grow up has been a good reminder of how long I have been home.
I keep thinking about what to do now. Of course I have planned on finishing high school before setting out on any new trips or adventures. But its been too long, and I've got that feeling you get as a sailor when you've been on land too long - life with all the easiness of being on land becomes uncomfortable and you feel almost trapped.
I know its not long before I'll have finished high school and I'll have found something new to stir up the lives of those around me.
Until then, I'd like to thank all you guys reading this for following my blog, and for continuing to support me. It means the world to know I've got you guys still faithfully following and supporting me!
Abby
did you ever learn the final fate of wild eyes or is it still drifting out there somewhere?
ReplyDeleteYou are incredible. I don't think I could work up the courage to do everything you did, even if I were only sailing along the coast!!! I look forward to reading your book!
ReplyDeleteIt's amazing to think you sailed half way around the world and don't have a driver's license! lol Good luck with that, hope you sail right through it!
ReplyDeleteIts fun living my youth out again in your thoughts. I'm a wanna be sailor with no boat. blessings!
ReplyDeleteI'm sure you'll let us know when the book comes out, but let us know book tour dates, too. I know a lot of us would love to come and support you.
ReplyDeleteMike in Michigan
I'm still following your blog Abby! I do miss your high seas adventures though, I can't wait to buy your book.
ReplyDeleteI want it signed though!
Keep it up kiddo! Your a blessing.
ReplyDeleteHi Abby -- Nice to see your new post today! Hope it won't be long til you get to sail again, get those sea-legs back and enjoy the vastness of the ocean.....I know you love it! You just hang in there and laugh heartily and live fully. There's a monsterous big future out there waiting for you!
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Janell in OK
thanks for the update!!
ReplyDeleteAbby:
ReplyDeleteGO GIRL GO AND GO AND GO!!!!!
It is great to hear a little about your life and what you are up to now. Thank you for including us in your world.
You need to finish High School and then at least think about college. Higher education is not the be all and end all that it is made to seem, mostly by political types that can tax it or by educators that would be out of a job if the gig ended. BUT...that scrap of paper is a powerful ticket to future adventures in life. You may also wish to consider a marine academy or a naval architect school. You will definitely have to pay your dues to join those clubs but they are rewarding and in line with you desire to be on the sea.
Above all, just continue to be Abby and follow your heart, it has taken you places that most of us only dream about in old age while we ponder "I wish, I should have, etc. Life is an adventure and you can live life to the fullest each day or you can just go with the flow and wonder what is it all about.
One question, are you in contact with Paul-Louis and the other people that helped you when you were demasted (spelling?)? I think that the last chapter of your book would be very powerful if you gave a short bio of the people that helped you and what they are doing now.
As always, it is great to hear from you and
GO GIRL GO!!!!!!!!!!!
John R Willis
I have checked your web site daily since you first left port on your adventure. Someday you will understand what you have meant to some of us older folks that past up their chance for adventure. It is regrettable you were unable to complete your task but I can sense in your spirit that you will not rest until until you do. When that day comes we will again be at your side cheering you on.
ReplyDeleteI have also been following Laura Dekker on her journey. The same yet so very, very different. Yours is a spirit hard to match.
Good Luck in all your future endeavors.
GARY
Abby,
ReplyDeleteHave a wonderful Christmas with your family and friends. You should do fine on the permit test if you have a little time to study. I'm hoping that driving will get rid of that almost-trapped feeling you have had. Give your baby brother a hug from me. Thanks for the update.
Kim, S.V.
You are an amazing young woman. It has been an adventure for me to follow along as I don't know anything about sailing. Can't wait for your book. I am sure that you will find some new wonderful adventure soon.
ReplyDeleteblessings
~a
Hi Abby: I am looking forward to reading your book. It is good to hear from you and to know that all is well. Keep up the school work it is very important to your future. Merry Christmas and Best Wishes for a Happy & Successful New Year. Joe Springfield VA USA
ReplyDeleteGood to hear from you! I have a feeling that once you graduate nothing is going to hold you down. You have a wonderful spirit! Good luck with the driving permit and highschool! Highschool is an adventure! enjoy!! Can't wait to read your book!
ReplyDeleteAbby, you have followed an amazing path in this adventure we call life, and knowing the kind of spirit that you have...well, as the old saying goes: "we ain't seen nothin' yet!" You just being yourself is inspirational to a lot of people. Keep on truckin' girl. Gus
ReplyDeleteMom can't wait for your book Abby, maybe you can autograph it for her
ReplyDeleteBenny & Lily
Abby girl- I smiled when I read this blog insert about feeling trapped on land as I saw you in Target in Simi with your Mom 2 weekends ago and I had that EXACT same thought... that you must feel a little bit trapped. Although I must say here on your blog (just as I did on Facebook) that it was surreal to see you, a world famous sailor, helping your Mum with the kids checking out at "Tarjay". Very humbling to see you doing that. You have certain things you must get thru and accomplish in your life right now, then on to the next adventure. And don't worry about the speaking, you'll get as good as Zac within no time. ;0)
ReplyDeleteWe all admire you and cherish you and your stories.
I look forward to seeing you around town again soon and sure all the people on this blog are jealous that I'm close enough to do that. ;0)
Lots of love to you and your family!
Thanks Abby.
ReplyDeleteKeep smiling :)
Love ♥
Richard
Good to hear from you, Abby. Yes, life on shore can seem a bit hum-drum after exciting days at sea. Sometimes it is good, though to enjoy the calm. The tempest will rise soon enough. Good luck with your drivers test! Do they still make you parallel park?:)
ReplyDeleteAbby girl, Follow your heart! Looking forward to your next adventure. You are blessed with the most excellent parents who encourage their kids to reach for their dreams. Never forget the blessing that have been bestowed upon you. Can't wait to read your book.
ReplyDeleteLoL getting your permit. When i got mine i wanted to tell them that i can sail 150 ton commercial sailing vessels and that they should just give it to me, but alas thats not how it works.
ReplyDeleteAnother tip: Just be yourself. You're doing great. I hope you'll be doing book signings in April. I'll be there.
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas!
Abby, you are at a good place in life where you have learned a tremendous amount and can still learn a lot. Thanks for sharing your adventures with us and look forward to real speaking tours where you can tell your story in full.
ReplyDeleteMaybe you will get future sponsorship and can complete your trip (it seems most people still think you are independently wealthy).
You have your whole life ahead of you and you will go where it takes you.
Best wishes to all.
Howdy Miss Abby, I must say i have missed reading about your adventure, wonder what you will do different next time... could you put me down for a signed copy? also, the Lake Havasu pocket cruisers shindigs comin up in Feb, be great to meet you there, maybe you could give a little seminar, that would be great...
ReplyDeleteall the best to you & yours,
old guy in nc
Another good tip for speaking (if you haven't heard this one already) is to pick about 6 people in the audience (in different places around the room) and tune out everyone but them. Look at those six people, and talk to them.
ReplyDeleteEveryone else will think you're an awesome speaker (which you most likely are) because you'll be engaging the entire audience (as far as they can tell), and you'll feel like you're talking to a few friends--so you'll be more comfortable.
Have a great day:)
Patrick.
abby your adventures are the most good there. forward to follow anything stop you. greetings from Argentina. Alexander
ReplyDeleteHi abby!
ReplyDeleteI'll wait for your book and i hope it will also be distributed hear in the philippines, just keep up the good work and godbles,
CoolJ from the phils.
"The consequence of every journey or plan is an experience. Never get disappointed when the experience is not what you expected or hoped for. Instead, appreciate these experiences, let them be stepping-stones and emerge a stronger individual"
ReplyDelete--Jacqueline F. Thompson -Jamaica
My Heroes are Jim Lovell, Fred Haise, Jack Swigert from Apollo 13 and Abby Sunderland The Saylor, You all prove everybody wrong by making it back home safe with the help of NASA to tell the story and inspire people like me to dare and dream.
I am already tire of driving. thanks to you I am learning how to sail and looking forward to read your book,
again thank you for the inspiration Abby and wish you the best of luck with your drivers permit
Merry X-mas and Happy New Year to you and your Family.
Luigi Morales Fl. USA
Driving can be fun too! I know the permit test isn't that hard, much of it seems to be just using common sense on the road. I took my test earlier this year too. Navigating the DMV was harder than the test for me.
ReplyDeleteHave you thought much about college? I know UC San Diego is a really good school that is right on the ocean, and it isn't that far from you either. Their Scripps Institute of Oceanography might be something you'd be interested in. :)
Don't gain weight, be femminine, fit and adopt technical skills. you won't be succesful in life unless attractive. Learn boat crafting, woodwork, paint, sails and rigging, perhaps find and restore an old sailboat during the years, and then teach sailing to the youngs. Learn meteorology, and solar energy is the future, together with wind energy. you know a lot, just try to keep yourself above the average, in general. Happy new year, and years to come. With love your fan from far away.
ReplyDeleteAbby, I don't think you will ever have a normal life. Celebrate your exceptional life and enjoy it to the fullest. You have certainly brought a bright light into my life...
ReplyDeleteJohn & Darlene
Kerrville, TX
Well just keep on doing what you beem doing and before you know it you will be on your next trip around the World. patience and keep us posted, I look almost every day.
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas to you and your family.
Al P
I trust in the process of life
ReplyDeleteThere is a rhythm and flow to Life, and I am part of it. Life supports me and brings to me only goods and positive experiences. I trust the process of life to bring me the highest good.
Enjoy these days with your family and friends. After school is finished you have a hugh, bright future to sail around the world. Just keep your fans posted as we are all looking forward to your next adventure. I am looking forward to your book. Did you ever receive notice of any sightings of Wild Eyes? Merry Christmas to you and your family. Nancy, St. Louis, Mo.
ReplyDeleteHello Abby, "A Normal Life" for Abby, I don't think so. Love your spirit of adventure. Thanks for the update on what's happening with you. When you finish high school, I'll be following your next adventure. Looking forward to reading the book. Happy Holidays to you and your family. A BIG fan following from San Antonio Texas.
ReplyDeleteHard to imagine you can sail, single handly, a good way around the world, but can't run to the store for milk! LOL I can't wait to see what you'll accomplish next! As a homeschool mom, I'm sure finishing highschool will be a breeze compared to what you've already done! (Though maybe not nearly as exciting!) You are a true inspiration! You deserve an honorary high school diploma just for what you've accomplished so far.
ReplyDeleteDear Abby,
ReplyDeleteSo nice to read your blog and I can understand that you think life at home is a bit boring after what you have experienced. You are only in the beginning of you future life and there will be a lot of fun and interesting avtivites in your life after you have finished High School.
Many Swedish young people use to be back packing round the world, staying months in Asia, Australia, N.Z, South America and US, and for most of them it's difficult to adjust to the normal "boring" life at home. Some work hard to save money for a new trip, and some are satisfied and stay in Sweden. Keep the good spirit and I wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Snowy greetings from a cold wintry Stockholm.
Regards,
Ingrid Petersson Tyreso, Sweden
Dear Abby,
ReplyDeleteI can fully understand that once you have sailed the oceans, you will never adjust to land life.. However, you need to finish school and start a business which will allow you to grow back into the seafares live..
I am now following the other single handed unassisted circumnavigation attempt by Jeanne Nereida.. These are the role models for you..
Stay strong and once in your blood it will never leave..just have patience
God Bless
I check weekly for updates, thanks for checking in! I'm now watching what Laura is up to. Wishing you and your family happy holidays and looking forward to your book. Kelly from Chico, CA.
ReplyDeleteAbby, Any news on the fate of Wild Eyes?
ReplyDeleteHi Abby,
ReplyDeleteI just wanted to say that I'm glad you haven't given up the Blog. I keep hoping that you would add photos to the photo section. You have really been doing a lot of traveling.
Thanks for the update
Ed
Dearest Abigail,
ReplyDeleteAbby...I believe the best years of your life are just around the corner. Finishing high school and some form of higher learning will open doors through out your life. No one can take those things away from you once you have them.
Through ABBY'S BLOG... I have met some really wonderful people all over the world....some I still communicate with regularly. I have YOU to thank you for that. And we have been blessed getting to know you and your family. And your book will be welcomed by all as a record of everything we have shared together.
Abs...I want to take this opportunity to wish you and your family and team and all the followers The Best of the Holiday Season.
We love you Abby.
john, Bay of Quinte on Lake Ontario
I wish that Santa would bring you a new sail boat for Christmas! However it would be a bit difficult to put it under the tree.
ReplyDeleteWhen you sail around the world again, I really wonder what kind of boat you will choose. You should let Santa know and perhaps share it with us?
If you are still working on the book, which I'm looking forward to, please tell us in the book how your trip has changed you.
When the book comes out, I hope that you will be doing some book signings on the east coast so that your many fans can say hello and see if you are six feet tall.
I'm looking forward to your next adventure.
Dear Abby
ReplyDeleteHappy Christmas to you and your family!
I look forward to hearing more about your developing talent of speaking publicly. You have done so much already for such a young woman.
Passing your driving test will be a doddle.
You can't help but win the ears of your audience when you speak from the heart about your passion.
You will never go wrong in that respect. Look how you have captured all your readers on your Blog.
Good luck with your studies. You will soon become too busy to be bored for long.
All the very best!
Jeanie In The Lakes
May the Lord bless you and protect you during your voyages....
ReplyDeleteI ♥♥♥♥ you Abby:)
ReplyDeleteAbby, try to remember not to think about sailing while you are driving. The cars in the lane next to yours won't appreciate it if you change tack suddenly. ;)
ReplyDeleteAbby, you're so wonderful because you have a pure heart!!! Weide
ReplyDelete"I'd like to thank all you guys reading this for following my blog, and for continuing to support me. It means the world to know I've got you guys still faithfully following and supporting me!"
ReplyDeleteThese words are fantastic!! You're welcome... you are welcome, Abby... you will never be forgotten until in the world there are people like me that really admire you!
So, you wrote you have a normal life now - enjoy the time with your family, until you live with them.
Matteo
Bonjour Abby,
ReplyDeleteIt is always great to have news from you Abby!
Maybe you should get a truck driving permit so you can carry all of your books with you for the signing tour. Those big trucks also have a bunk bed so Paul-Louis could keep an eye on you as you travel! :-D
I sure hope to find my favorite Abby's blogs and pictures in your coming book...Well, I'll know in April.
Until your next post, Take care, Be safe!
Abby, I hope you'll continue to keep us informed of your activities and thoughts here on your blog, but thank you for sharing everything that you have! I'm definitely looking forward to your book.
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas to you and your whoooole family!
Hi Abby it has been awhile since I last wrote you, but I have keep reading your blog. I have always said I like your writing style. As I am sure many others like it to. You seem have an adventures spirt and with a positive attitude which will take you far. I think many of us old folks think . “Wow why didn’t I do that when I had the change” as we read through your blog.
ReplyDeleteAbby I am so looking forward to reading your book. I know that there is so much more about you’re adventure that I still have not heard about. As for not making all the way around the world, I for one see your adventure a success. You proved that you have a capability to sail and where in the world, and to tackle most any problem that the ocean through your way. And when the force of nature crippled your boat. You need what needed to be done. Abby I hope you include in your book what happened on the boat as you awaited rescue.
as for settling in to regular life, I don’t think there is anything regular about your life. Everyone one has a family, job or school, responsibilities . It is what your make of you spare time is that makes the difference.
Boat NO-RAIN-A
Bagg-man@hotmail.com
lol @ commenter who said "don't gain weight". In our culture, girls and women are taught from a young age that their appearance is always being judged and that being slim & attractive is critical to their success in life. For someone to post a message reinforcing that kind of inequality on your blog is kind of pathetic. I hope you don't become obsessed with your weight and appearance. There's nothing wrong with staying fit and stylish and "dressing for success", and it does take more effort to do that as an adult than as a teen, but you can expect your body to fluctuate a bit, especially with all the changes coming up in your life. When that happens, don't sweat it—not like you have anything to worry about right now, anyway.
ReplyDeleteHello Abby,
ReplyDeleteIt is so good to hear from you. To know your still with us too. Then to hear how things are
going with Little Paul-Louie. How time flies as they say.
Sorry Wild Eyes' is not with you anymore, its almost like lossing a dear friend. We out here are praying there will be a miracle for a new boat sometime soon. I know we all miss your journey at sea.
Blessing to you and the family and the Abby Team also for Happy Holidays & a healthy new Year to all.
Keep it coming Abby. Good luck with the school work.
Dee Thompson, Santa Clarita, Ca.
I really miss your ocean trips too and I hope to hear from you again about all your other adventures. I hope your book sales go well and that you raise enough money supply you with the new boat and more adventures. It's also really important that you stay in school finish her education so that no matter what happens you really go forward in life.
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas and happy new year to you and your family!
John
Abby,I think it would be great if you could find a sponser to finance the cost of locating Wild Eyes,taking it to the nearest port,repairing the boat and then completing your round the world trip.
ReplyDeleteThat would make one hell of a story.
Some rich person like Oprah might just go for it.
Give it some thought.
Im still wearing your T shirts.
Good Luck
Libby Di Bernardo
San Pedro,Ca
http://www.theonion.com/articles/abby-sunderland-concocted-historys-most-extreme-pl,18619/
ReplyDeleteHey Abbey! Just checked back on your site for the first time since the big news of your trip and rescue and I just want to say how happy I am that God answered my prayers for your safe return! Have a very Merry Christmas with your family and friends and know in your head and heart that there are an awful lot of people out here that you don't even know who admire your courage and your youth and exuberance and wish nothing but the best for you! KEEP GOING!
ReplyDeleteHey Abby,
ReplyDeleteSo I have been wondering something for the last few months since my return from sea. Well, for starters I sailed a small 30ft sailboat from Newport, California to Nicaragua, I started my journey in January and ended it in June (2010). For starters I am very impressed in regards to how far you made it. Yes, you did not go the distance as you planned, but who cares, it is still amazing what you did. I myself had to cut my journey down mainly due to boat issues and as much as I wish I went as far and if not farther then I planned I still have No regrets!!!!
What I was wondering is if you were the lone 16 year old that I met along the way in Ensenada, Mexico in the month of january, the 28th to be exact?
So, this is how it went down: We were trapped in San Diego for a week riding out a crazy gail force storm, we exited in a hurry to Mexico afterwards and ended up in Ensenada on the 25th, as I said it was right when the tail end of the storm system pull out. As soon as we tied up to what was left of the slips, my partner ran ashore to Immigrations and while I was waiting I think we might of met and chatted for 5 minutes or so? If it was you, you were going ashore to try to fill up some Jerry jugs with gas; with no luck. I mean, I am pretty sure it was you, for the girl I met had a look of determination in her eyes that pretty much said I AM GOING TO SAIL AROUND THE WORLD! Plus, how many 16 year olds were sailing solo in that area at that time?
Any-who, I have always wondered if that was you? I shot a small video that is up on youtube that I took when we pulled into Ensenada, Mexico and I shot it minutes after I maybe met you or some other 16 year old sailor? So, maybe watch the video and confirm if you feel like it. I would love to find out if it was you or not.. :)
Thats it.... Well outside of telling you that you are one amazing little lady and a inspiration to us all!
PEACE
Andy
http://www.youtube.com/user/foehsel#p/u/20/kbqnaGEQf1k
Hey Abby!
ReplyDeleteGreat to hear from you again! Been checking your blog for some time sadly with no new postings and just saw news on Laura Dekker and checked your blog today and was excited to read your updated posting.I wish you the best of luck on your driving test,of course I know you will pass.I am looking forward to your book soon. Word of advice when you get your drivers license...take it easy on the road and please drive within the speed limit. I live in Kendal,Florida and just before the Thanksgiving Holiday an 18 year old and friends set out to go shopping driving at a high rate of speed. They never made it as they lost control of their small Scion which later hit a tree and exploded into flames.The driver was ejected from the car and is in coma at a nearby hospital. His 13 year old brother died as well as another passenger.PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE drive safely Abby!Even if your in a rush it is better to get their alive!!!
Glad to hear your family is well and till then be safe.
Virginia
It took me till I was about 17 to get my permit I wasn't ready till then anyways. :) Your blogs are still really fun to read even though they are no high sea adventures they are still enjoyable.
ReplyDeleteHi Abby. Thanks for keeping us informed of what's happening. Time does go by so fast- 5 months? Wow. Wasn't it just yesterday that we were all watching this page daily, and praying for you?
ReplyDeleteI look forward to seeing the book.
Take care.
Ron in Colorado
Ahoy Captain Abby
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas
(33.2º, -117.2º)
Abby and her family
ReplyDeleteWarmest wishes for a Merry Christmas
and a Happy New Year from our crew to yours and may you navigate through a Prosperous New Year.
Ken
12-24-10 @ 00:45
ReplyDeleteHi Abby,
I just wanted to say hello to you and your family and wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year. It has been quite a busy and eventful year for you and you seem to be all the better for it. I’m a little behind times right now but I hope you got your permit without any problems.
I can appreciate your feeling of boredom not being on the ‘high seas’ but that time will come again. Get your education behind you and then you’ll be free to run again. I’m looking forward to your book, is there any launch date set for it yet????
Take care of yourself and continue to enjoy all your travels. God Bless You! Thank you for sharing all your interesting journeys.
Loads of love and hugs, and remember God is always with you.
Your faithful friend, fan and follower.
Michael from Kingwood, WV
Abby! Your adventure was parodied in The Onion: http://www.theonion.com/articles/abby-sunderland-concocted-historys-most-extreme-pl,18619/
ReplyDeleteDont we all wish for a normal life? Well, I'm glad that you are getting better with your public speaking because like you've said once the book is out, you'll be doing a lot of talks.
ReplyDeleteGood luck on your book.
Happy Holidays.
Hi Abbey, I was so interested by your voyage last summer that I still check into your blog now and then.
ReplyDeleteI'm wondering, if you could buy a new boat tomorrow, what type would it be, and how would you evaluate boats in order to make your choice? Would your choice depend on your intended use, i.e., local sailing vs. another trip around the world?
Also, you have plenty of time to decide what your future will be, but I'm wondering if the US Coast Guard or Naval Academy would be possibilities?
-- Jim from CT
Great to hear about your little adventures- I'm really looking forward to reading your book!!! And I hope that you can get back out on the water soon; I miss the water too- Denver doesn't have anything : )
ReplyDeleteKeep up the good work and keep smiling!
-Heather
I can't wait to buy your book!
ReplyDeleteHi Abby,
ReplyDeleteYou are a very intelligent, mature, young lady. Your family is to be commended for all they have taught you. You have traveled to places and met with people only some of us can dream about. I appreciate you keeping in touch with us. I am sure we will hear great things about you in the future.
Jack
Ventura, CA
Hi Abby! If you ever set sail again make sure that the rudder is in great shape! Laura had to replace hers while still out in the ocean! She had quite a hard time but she succeeded! That's a great feat for a girl of 15! I hope that you are keeping track of her!
ReplyDeleteHave a Happy New Year Abby!! I can't wait to see you again soon! :)
ReplyDeleteLove,
Chrissy <><