Mostly just the usual out here today, still flying along really nicely, any tips on avoiding speed cameras?! A few squalls have kept me busy reefing in and out and I spent a lot of my down time today catching up on a little sleep after being kept awake last night with a passing boat and a few little squalls.
You've probably noticed on the tracker that we've been passing the odd island but nothing compared to what's coming up next week as we reach French Polynesia, I'm enjoying the sea room while it lasts!
I'm not sure how best to put this but a lot of people have been wondering and asking so here goes; yes, it's definitely me writing these blogs! Having someone blog under my name is a big no go for me. Can you imagine letting your Mum or anyone else describe your feelings to the world under your name? Ouch! Well maybe it's just a teenage thing! But I do have to confess, my updates have to be spell checked before being published. My spelling is, can we just say a little notorious!
While I'm on a roll with these confessions, I've got another one for you too. Sorry everyone, but I don't just blog to satisfy your curiosity, but also because I love writing them!
Oh and yes I did open that can of mangoes and quite a few cans after that! I've been justifying my total mango pig out by telling myself that as a tropical fruit the mangoes need to be eaten while still in the tropics. There's plenty of other treats stashed away for the cooler legs.
Everyone back home is out having fun at the local Christmas lights parade tonight (I'm a little jealous but right here on Ella's Pink Lady is still my first preference). So, not to be outdone, I think I'll have another movie night with plenty of popcorn and chocolate. Anyway the stars out here would easily get first prize in any competition!
Jesse
Saturday, November 28, 2009
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301 comments:
«Oldest ‹Older 201 – 301 of 301Good on you Jess! As for someone else writing your blog, even after I explained to hubby that you had all the gear to write your own blog and from seeing you on tv you have a way with words, he was still skeptical. Ah well, some people! Everything's negative. Good on you for the positive! Keep it up :-)
Jess I have thougth about writting you often. I have a daughter about your age and when she went to the University I was so glad that she stayed close to home. She is on the tennis team there and loves it. I think you are so brave to sail. What an experence you are having... What a story you will have. I have become one of your fans so I am going to try and keep up with your postings.
With sincer kindness
Sharon
Jessica's stargazing featured on Universe Today as astronomers which Jessica well.
http://www.universetoday.com/2009/11/28/solo-sailor-spots-pacific-bolide/
Hi, Jessica,
I guess it's a compliment to your writing that some people thought you had a ghost writer.
One great advantage of your blog, and videos, and any other forms of diary you may be keeping, is to help you remember specifics of the voyage when it's done and for the rest of your life after. You'll probably keep busy your entire life and never have much time for reminiscing, but there might come the occasional winter's night when you want to think back to your round-the-world voyage (or, perhaps, your first of more than one round-the-world voyages), and all these memory-joggers may come in handy.
You mentioned our noticing on the tracker that you've been passing islands -- well, on my tracker at least, I don't notice that 'cause there's no marker for your lastest two blog posts. So, addressing the support crew, I know you've got lives besides supporting Jess's effort, but gee, if she can find time to blog, seems like you can find time to put up a marker so we know where she's blogging from. On the other hand, if there's been a crisis, an equipment problem, or if the problem is on my end, then I apologize for bringing it up.
Continued good fortune, Jessica.
Best wishes,
Michael from Texas, USA
Hi Jessica,
I never doubted it was you writing the blogs. I love your easy reading writing style. I would know it was someone else writing straight away. Often turn on the computer just to find out how you are going. Best wishes,
John
Hi Jess,
We all know its you out there righting these blogs, like really who could give me a better description on what your achieving outlet alone. Well done and as for the chrissy lights, close your eyes and imagine what they look like as Im sure you have seem plenty. We cant close our eyes and experience what you are going through and the adventure your having. So sit back and enjoy,Hence why Im loving your blogs.
Enjoy the mangoes as they are seasonal on the GC you can have them for a long time yet, and you then will be telling us that you have pigged out on mangoe's and we then will be enveous.
Loving your journey
keep smiling.
PS whats the flick tonight jess?
Kell xx
Hi Jessica,
I have been reading your blog and it seems that you have been a little moody I think its because of the fresh sea air and being by yourself not including Ellas Pink Lady,OK
Riki-Lea.
From Victoria,Echuca.
Hi Jessica
Firstly, may I say along with many who have already commented on your blogs, that I cannot understand how anyone could doubt that they are written by you. They are far too personal and descriptive of your life on board EPL to be written by anyone but you, and those of us who have heard you speak on the videos can, I think, imagine you verbally telling us your thoughts in the written words you have used in your blogs, complete with what we are coming to know as your uniquely distinctive, characteristic and sometimes giggly sense of humour. Without doubt you are a talented writer with great capacity to describe all kinds of feelings, ideas, activities and events related to your life on board EPL. That is abundantly clear from the start of your blogging and the fact that you “love writing them” is no surprise - it is readily apparent in all your blogs.
On a lighter note, Spell Checkers are notorious for getting things wrong. In your previous blog you said Parker was ‘wondering’ of course a little, which made me think either Parker or the Spell Checker or both had gone for a ‘wander’! The simple way you personify Parker creates some of the charm that is ever present in your blogs and enables us, your readers, to imagine you talking to Parker: “Hey Parker, stay awake, we’re bound for the Cape, not Antarctica”.
Thanks for your reports, and keep writing, we enjoy reading what you have to say. Hope EPL is still ‘flying along’ the Great Circle Route.
Tony L (Mt Martha VIC)
I didn't have any doubt you were writing the blogs, but I am glad.
-Dimitri, USA
Hello again Jesse,
The tradition of sailing and writing have been going on for a very long time. I am captivated by your humourous, descriptive, and personal writing style. I find it very entertaining. When I watch your videos and interviews, it is easy to see that your writing reflects your unique personality.
This is the first blog that I have ever posted on. The only other blog I followed was a real esate bubble blog. I never posted on it.(but learned a great deal)
Your personality and the challenging adventure you have undertaken has gotten to me, and reconnected me to my dreams of ocean voyaging.
Thank you for doing that!
All the Best
Richard W
Maryland USA
Hey Jess,
Other pacific sailors have reported rubbish and debris across the Pacific. Have you seen much debris and rubbish. Stu Sunny Coast.
hi jess,
we are all behind u all the way so u dont have to apoligise for any thing i for one are not the best speller and the grankids correct me all the time on stuff. so u do your best,i love your blogs any way there spelt. happy sailing and god speed. sail safely.
pandj
bundy
Hi,
I just finished reading Jesse Martin's "Lionheart" a few days ago. My admiration of you has now gone up quite a few notches :) You are one amazing young lady to do what you are doing. I wish you all the best for the remainder of your trip. I love your blogs. Thanks for keeping us updated. Wishing you sunshine, blue skies, and happy sailing!
Derek
California, USA
I am sure all of your blogs are written by you. I seem to somehow have tripped a switch and now all of the responses to your blogs are coming to my email! How do I turn this darn thing off?
Fair winds from Tiger Lily.
Hello,
i watch your trip from germany, and read your Blogs daily. Is verry interessting.
A Friend of my ist sailing now from franz. polynesien to Hawaii. His last Position war 24 h ago 02°43'N 140°28'W.
with a North Heading.
Bstrgds
hot and muggy in Brissie. You aren't missing anything here.
Life is a manifestation of mind, keep a positive mind and a positive life will follow.
Keep on trucken. I am deeply envious.
Hi Jesse. 2 blogs close together how lucky are we !
I am sure as you go further South and in to the Roaring 40's that you may not be able to blog as often although I'm sure you'll be in contact with "base". In that case could Mum pop on even if just to say "Jesse is OK" ? You have lots of foster parents sailing with you LOL. Take care sweetie xx
Hello again "Jessicaptain"
I have been reading some your earlier Bloggs again and comments written to you, your Mum, family and inspirational "Land based support & backup crew" and whilst 99.9 % of the comments are glowing with accolades, praise, encouragement, lavished with parental, friendship, concern, love and admiration as your dream unfolds, there are elements out there of severe jealousy, destructiveness, hooliganism, road ragers' and truancy, trying to undermine your RTW attempt. (As indicated by some of the Comments having to be deleted by the Blogg controller"
To them that may read this comment - please go away and take your filth & nastiness with you to those who enjoy your low form of life. Otherwise stay in the background silently and take 1 page out of this ladies amazing book and apply it to your lives - you will be a better person for it. With over 1 million (and increasing) hits to Jessica's website daily - she must be doing something right.
To those of you that continue to ask Jessica or her base team for her Lat/Long position, there has to be a reason why they don't give it out - there are people out there who have ulterior motives to foul up Jessica's "World Record Attempt" and if they knew exactly where she was - this gives them the opportunity to do just that.
Suggest you read her advice, rules and instructions from her website and accept her "Tracker" as good enough info
Trust her back up team, they are protecting her every inch of the way.
PS - Thats my 2 bobs worth for the day.
To rest of us - "Keep Puffing" ) ) ) ) ) )
Jessica, keep your sails full and Godspeed.
Regards Bryan
Perth, Western Australia
Go girl. You're a champ.
Fantastic work Jess,
good work on the fish, tuna for sure, yellow fin - maybe not.
Top sailing.
Net fresh Mango i eat will be in your honour!
Kev
Jess,
years ago the Postal Service of Germany had the slogan "Schreib mal wieder - Ein Brief braucht keine langen Worte" [translated:"Write again - A letter doesn't have to have a lot of long words"].
So, there you are. Write when you feel up to it - and don't if you can't. We know your task and will understand.
In that case we keep ourselves entertained. Hi [...] how are you today, enjoyed your comment from yesterday. And [...] did you keep up with your exercises? Hallo [...]your joke on [...] was terrific. Any more of those...
You see, we are becoming one big club, the "Jessica-Watson-Rent-a-crowd-Roadshow". (Has anybody seen that "A L B A T R O S S " person lately ?
Regards
Victor
Hey Jess
Loved your Heeled Over Comment. reminds me of my once only sailing experience where we were really heeled over and that was coming from Manly and crossing the Sydney heads. What an experience and the exhilaration. probably seams lame considering what you are taking on.
Great to see you are progressing well,,,south ward bound. January seems like a long way off but I bet it flies by.
Any way keep safe
Good winds
Noel Novice Sailor Canberra
mmm.. yum mangoes - you're eating better than me and I'm only 5 mins walk from Coles!
So, French Polynesia next week eh? How exciting. Will keep following your plots on the map.
Never doubted for a second that it was you typing this blog - it's way too descriptive for someone who isn't there. You write from the heart. You must write a book on your return, or maybe you've already started it.
Best wishes
'Til next time
Jane and Scott, Mosman, Sydney
Hi Jess
Your updates are always fun to read. I can't imagine how beautiful the night sky must be where you are. It always looks unbelievable in regional VIC but it must be so beautiful where you are :) I'm sure you'll treasure the beauty forever.
Have you done any more baking recently? I can recommend lemon and white chocolate cup cakes. Keep haiving the time of your life out there Jess. You are an amazing girl :)
Hope the fish are biting for you tomorrow.
Happiness always,
Nicole McLean (Melbourne)
Mangoes, Chocolate and popcorn; Not to mention an 'inflight/sail' movie. Wow I gotta fly/sail your mode of travel one day. You Go Girl, my appertite for sailing is wetted, hmmm I wonder if its much different than land-yatch sailing I have done in the Woomera Area??
I was totally blown away that you had to confirm that you are actually the one writing your blog. I couldn't believe that anyone would think otherwise. But then I got to thinking that anyone who doubts that you are not purely narating your day to day life is someone who has NEVER EVER in their life been on an adventure. There are plenty of people who have never enjoyed their own adventure and they are the ones who would doubt the most that your adventure is real and just so easy to write about. In fact what is an adventure to us at home is merely day to day goings on in your life - and we love every minute of it, because we at home at this point in our lives for whatever reason are not enjoying such a magnificent journey. Enjoy girl, you are a wonder!
Hi Jessica - I enjoy your writing and look forward to your next entry. Thank you so much for doing this and sharing your adventure with us -
Cheers and Red Balloons - Catherine in Melbourne
Hi Jessica,
I a 60 y.o. landlubber who has done some ocean cruising, but nothing like your venture. I did serve as a deckhand on my brother's 75' ketch on a voyage from Auckland to Port Moresby in 1992 via Noumea and Townsville. We got caught in an un-forecast 70 knot gale of Cape Reinga which was a bit of a challenge but from Noumea to Port Moresby it was the other extreme - not enough wind so we had to hoist the iron spinnaker (otherwise known as the engine) for a couple of days as we were all pressed for time. Since then I've been hard aground but I still hear the call of the sea, even in Alice Springs where I am living at present. I just want to wish you fair winds and calm seas for rounding the Horn. As I 'm sure you know it can be calm down there; it's a bit of a thread needle exercise to dodge the worst of the low pressure systems.
I am in total admiration of you and your adventure. I believe we should grab life and all it has to offer us with both hands. I once heard someone say life is like a game of tennis: it's not how the ball comes to you but how you hit it back that matters. Well, you are hitting aces! Well done. I will continue to follow your progress with great interest.
Hi Jessica, I'm glad you ate the mangoes! I just love reading your blog every day you describe your experiences with passion. You are a breath of fresh air, and I guess you are getting plenty of that out there. Do you ever feel lonely? How are you coping with the short bouts of sleep? Do you get used to it? I suppose you don't have time to feel lonely. I especially love seeing the photos you have taken.
Hi Jess
Loving your blogs and your style of writing. It makes me feel as if I am out there with you. I check each night to see what you've posted. Keep safe. Sally
Jessica I check on you every day to read your blog I am so interested in your progress. I have to say I truly admire you for your skill and determination. I am a Dad and Granddad to 3 boys. You must be an inspiration to many people young and old world wide. Be safe and above all ENJOY every minute of your travels.Best to you from Fargo ND USA
Ok, you just made me really jealous for the first time. after everything that could have made me envious, the thing that got me was your comment about the stars! cant wait to get out on the Pacific and experience it for myself in a couple of years time!
Ben Turner - Melbourne
The biggest questio of all. What music are you rocking out to on this epic adventure. Beethoven,nelly furtado or what! haha thats not my pick. just examples. Keep having fun.
Hi Jes,
I am really enjoying tagging along with you on this trip (from the comfort and safety of my PC). You mention the little islands you need to avoid, looking at the satellite image on your website reveals a mind blowing underwater topography with underwater mountain ranges and valleys littering the sea floor, where those islands are the mountaintops poking through the surface of the ocean. I never really thought about how much like flying, sailing is (just on water rather than in the air) underneath it's pretty much the same view (minus the manmade bits). Keep up the good work and keep an eagle eye out for those "sticky-up bits".
All the best,
Bill from A.C.T.
Hey Captain Jesse,
Glad to hear of the usual, a sign things are going smoothly. Just wanted to post a note to you and Ella's Pink Lady to wish you Godspeed, and continued good seas.
Mike
hey jess,
just a question: it seems like your current course is taking you almost due south.
why aren't you headed more to the southeast? are you hoping to pick up the westerlies in the far southern latitudes and ride them past cape horn?
thanks for answering if you have the time...
Jessica...from Ireland...you rock, gurl!
Always wanted to sail around the world one day, but between this and that distraction (excuses, escuses etc.,), never got round to it. Will have to look into it more though...and take that leap off the precipice, as that's what it's all about...isn't it...just going for it. You are brave!
Coincidentally, and not wanting to take anything away from your adventure (as if I could), there was a showing here on a UK channel about three weeks ago concerning a school boy doing the around the world trip too. Don't know his name, however, if you are going through anything that he went through, then....WOW...you are brave.
Of course, some will have said that you were foolish, but what would they know...jealous all the way I would imagine.
Keep positive, happy, and face the days ahead with a smile. Rock the world as only you know it, and if you get the chance, give a look in my direction soem time. Wish I was there (and not) if you know what I mean, as it wouldn't be solo then :))
Fair winds
John
Hey Jess,
Good to see things are going so well,i had my own little adventure today, got on the wrong bus in Berlin,Germany and ended up in the deepest part of the old East Germany where more Russian than German is spoken quite the adventure and a lovely afternoon really but not a Mangoes in sight,in this part of the world unfortunately, but i will be home in Brissy in a couple of weeks so i will have a fresh one for you.
Stay safe
Red
Hey Jessica this is my first comment on your blog ive been following your progress on a daily basis since day 1 i tell everyone about you in my taxi here Brisbane,Jessica you really are true Australian hero in my book and theres no doubt about that you have that fighting Australian spirit that we keep you going to end never give up on your dream Jess you keep going girl all the best in the next few months i hope to be Sydney on the day that you arrive home From Eric ,Brisbane
one more awesome post from you dear Jess!!
keep on sailing and keep on blogging
best wishes from Washington DC
Siraj
Hi Jessica,
My name is Pip Walter, I'm a musician and blue
water sailor from Cape Elizabeth, Maine, USA. I
started following your progress while on a trip to
London to visit my daughters. Now I am home again
and I can check your blog everyday! I'll be cheering
you on the whole way and will have a "Jess party"
when you cross my longitude (70w). All the best,
fair winds and seas and Neptune's blessing on you!
Pip
Maine,USA
Hi Jessica,
Great to read and see you videos,you are a inspiration to all.Seems you are having a positive attitude in your adventure.I follow your blogs daily and I continue to be thrilled with your knowledge.
I wish you ''God speed and smooth seas,I used to sail out of Rose Bay in Sydney in the seventies until relocating to the U.S.A.
Keep up the great work,my prayer's are with you daily.
Don't forget pineapples are a good sub when the mangoes run out.
Thanks for your continued updates,I look forward with great interest to your future blogs and videos.
God speed Jessica and safe winds to follow you.
Stephen M.
Transplanted ''Aussie''
in Maryland,USA
I'm glad you love writing your blog, we love reading them. You have a nice way with words and convey your feelings and happenings well. Glad to read your Pink Lady is sailing so well.
Are you ever seasick? And how do you deal with that?
I hope you enjoyed your movie night and popcorn, I guess you weren't seasick then.
Stay safe and fair winds.
Henk from Canada who one day hopes to take his family cruising.
It clicked why a couple of non-Australian bloggers are worrying about Jess going up the east coast of Africa! They must be mixing up the African nation of Tanzania with the Australian island state of Tasmania - Jess's 3rd and final rounding point. [The first rounding point is Kiritimati Island (pronounced Kirismas) - in the widely scattered island nation of Kiribati (pron. Kiribas), and the second rounding point is Cape Horn; as mentioned in the "latest news" on 24/11/09.]
I can't blame them - foreign mappers have a long history of leaving dear Tassie off maps - even though it is the 26th largest island in the world and one of the 6 states of Oz (not counting internal Territories - NT & ACT).
Check http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tasmania for info on this beautiful island with a long and notorious history and a great sailing tradition - end point of the famous Sydney to Hobart yacht race held annually just after Christmas, and still home to the Tasmanian Devil (the real ~ not the Warner Bros version).
I Look forward to Jesse rounding Tassie next ~May/June? soon before the finish line. [I presume Jess/organisers has chosen not to go through the Bass Strait?]
PS - Australian Geography 102 - for international bloggers the Australian States/internal Territories anticlockwise from Tassie are: Tasmania, Victoria, New South Wales*, Queensland, Northern Territory, Western Australia and South Australia.
[*plus Australian Capital Territory/includes seperate Jervis Bay Territory both inside but not part of NSW - most Australians don't know about Jervis Bay Territory - JB has the confirmed whitest sand in the world & also worth a visit.] - GT
Hi Jesse,
I just read about those skeptics who don't believe you're writing the blog yourself. I just can say: try not to think about that kind of people to much!
First of all, people tend to believe only things which about fit into their own horizon. I'm quite certain there's a whole lot out there thinking that your voyage all together is a hoax, some clever scheme of your sponsors or whatever they may come down with as an explanation.
Furthermore this is the web. I've been working with it since its emergence in Germany and it's my experience that time and again you'll meet people there, who just use it to live out their own deficiencies by giving others a bad time simply because they can do so here without consequences.
And then of cause you probably know that you - like anyone else who focusses a certain amount of public attention - will find among all your honest fans and supporters some people with rather curious or even awkward motifs.
After all you KNOW what you're doing, and it's a great thing in itself - so let those disbelievers just behind you in their shallow water.
Good wind and good luck!
Nico
Germany
Hey, girl! I just wanted to say that what you are doing is amazing. Pretty silly but sometimes I feel a little creeped out in my own house, at night. Honestly, I think of you and what you are doing and talk myself back into shape! I look forward to reading your blog daily. You are am amazing girl. I can only imagine the many things that await you in life beyond your trip.
Happy thoughts from landlocked Colorado, USA,
Nicole =)
Heya Jess..Glad that the good progress continues and that you enjoyed the mangos!! Have fun watching that movie :). Take care. xo.
I went to church today and saw a great saying in a book of church signs all over the US. Our churches have small signs out front where they put phrases and sayings---like "This church is Prayer Conditioned" or you cant stumble far if you're on your knees. Well the one I liked best for you was on a sign in front of a church in the mid-west and it said---"The Winds of Grace Are Always Blowing---But You Have to Raise the Sail" Pretty clever huh. Anyway I thought you would get a kick out of that.
P.S. I love Mangos. I ate them all the time when I backpacked around the Hawaiian Islands.
Keep going and I knew you were writing your own blogs. It is a pleasure reading good sentence structure from a 16yr old. With texting so big now I wonder if any of your generation are going to know how to spell.
I'll be one of the first to wish you a Merry Christmas given I missed wishing you a Happy Thanksgiving. OH yeah and a Happy New Year too.
Hi for the first time Jess
As a speed camera trainer all I can say is enjoy the open ocean and lack of speed limits. When you get back and start driving and inevitable get caught by a camera remember it is a 'voluntary contribution scheme'.
I was reading an article about the international word of the year the other day and I thought how this could apply to you. 'UNFRIEND' to be removed as a friend from a facebook or similar account. I believe you must be the extreme opposite to this definition at the moment as thousands of people track you and keep you in their thought each day.
A previous winning word was 'HYPERMILER' a person who modifies their vehicle(vessel) or driving habits to gain maximum fuel efficiency and mileage. That definitely applies to your efforts.
A runner up word this year was 'Intexticated' the state of being distracted whilst driving and texting. I hope you don't get into trouble at sea whilst busily blogging inside.
Keep a sharp lookout and may God watch over you always.
Vic from Diddillibah
Hey Jess!!....a thought just struck me.I bet you already ready for the Guiness book of word records as the longest unassisted voyage by sail even now.And each passing another nautical mile gained even more.Here's to you girl,you are the best!!!
Good morning Jesse
Monday Monday in AUS and another working week. Glad to see hopefully, you had a relaxing Sunday and that you are still flying along. I hope you have given your sextant a bit of a work out in your quiet moments and that the forthcoming islands won't pose to much of a problem.
More later today
My fingersd are crossed that you have had lots of sleep and that you are trying for another fish!!!!!
Sea ya
Dusty from Dubbo
Dear Jessica
I must admit to being a little taken aback that some would even think of you having a ghost writer. Goes to show that our big world is full of all kinds of people. Trust has certainly taken a battering in most societies over the past few decades and here is another example of those who do not 'trust' even the daily muses of a teenage explorer. Now we don't come across people like you every day so I guess these people may be excused for thinking otherwise. You have simply showed them in the only way you can - by raw honesty - and that's another thing that has eroded modern society. Well done for writing in such a way that 'may' give them a new perspective on life!
I am also curious as to what your plans are for celebrating Chritmas. As for the lights - loved how you used the night sky to reveal the best example for what is beautiful about this season.
Would also love to know what movies you have enjoyed.
Finally, as a previous poster asked so now I am curious too - what do you do with all your rubbish?
I can only imagine how proud your mum and dad must feel. I sent my 18yr old son interstate to university earlier this year and it was the hardest thing I ever had to do. Tonight he flies home for the Christmas summer holidays and I can't wait to hold him in my arms again, to have him sleeping under my roof again and eating us out of house and home. That day will come for your mum and dad but not before you have achieved your ultimate dream.
Thank you for allowing us to take this journey with you. God's speed and blessings be upon you.
Hi Jessica
Next lesson Acts 2 verse 38Consider the 3 elements of the Plan of Salvation that Peter preached in verse 38; they were
1)_____, 2) forgiveness of sins by _____, 3) and receiving the gift of the _____ ______.
Hmmmm mango sounds good.
Think I'm gonna have that tonight.
I am so curious about your sleep.
You told us you take cat naps here and there...
What is the longest sleep you had so far (without waking up)?
2 hours? 3 hours?
I was wondering you how short sleep can affect your mood and function...
You know one sleep cycle is about 90 minutes, and I think we need at least 90 min. of sleep to refresh our body and soul.
So I thought you might need at least 90 min. of sleep at once...
Could you comment about how your many short sleep is affecting you?
Thanks.
Jon @ Va Beach
I think you write very well. Don't worry, the odd typo still gets through just showing even fully fledged adults get it wrong sometimes too. All good.
This is sort of your adventure diary so of course you'd want to write it yourself!
I enjoy your descriptions of simple things...I always tell my kids there is beauty to be found nearly everywhere if you only take the time to look.
The image I have in my head of you is like the kid in "Where the Wild things Are" bobbing off in his boat for a year and a day or whatever it was...eight months and a day let's hope! And of course you are a proper young lady, not a kid anymore!
All the best for a top week. : )
You are making it quite easy for me to celebrate your next feet! I can have cheese with home baked bread . . . orrr mangoes . . . or mandarin pieces...perhaps with cream . . . or chocolate . . .orrrr cupcakes. Quite a cool selection of celebratory treats!
Hope you are enjoying your Sunday...although I haven't quite figured out the time difference..you might be on Monday already.
Blessings and smooth sailing...(unless you like the adventure or speed of rough sailing) (smile),
Tracie
Good Monday Morning Jessica,your navigational explanation was very well executed, and proved if nothing else that at least you Jesse know what you are talking about and where you are heading!!!EPL is performing well for you, and the further you sail, the better the two of you will react to each other!
Continue to make good progress, take it easy on the mangoes,get your rest,eat well, and of course stay "clipped on"God Bless Jesse,you are always in our prayers. Dougal
dear jess,
Ever since hearing of your courageous voyage, I felt inspired and proud that someone my own age had so much determination and drive in them. I enjoy reading your blogs and wish you the best of luck.
Lori (USA)
Good luck, wishing you fair skies and calm seas.
Hi, Jess
Dr. Greg & Karen again. Well it is Turtle Season home here and Karen and I are out each night on the beach (we live virtually on the beach) watching, then doing the data recording for the turtle research project. Off tomorrow night with an old colleague of mine, Dr. Col Limpus (he is in charge of the turtle research project in Aus) to be taught again how to tag these beautiful wonders.
I guess by now you have seen a few swimming along, no matter how many we process a night it never ceases to amaze me how wonderful nature is.
Have fun Jess, polish up on your french as you certainly are not far away from those beautiful Islands.
Dr Greg and Karen.
Good afternoon Jess;
I just stop by to say Hi for the day, and looking forward to your next post and land mark.
Have a good day.☺ ☺
♥ ♥ ♥
Hi Jess I had to google you today because I lost my favourties list to check in and see what you were up to 4,070,000 results came up!!! Including a nice little piece from the LA times. Keep up the great work in your blogs they are great to read and keep the wanderlust in many of us a little satisfied and edging us on to our next adventure!
G'day Jess,
Its great to read your story. Your enthusiasm is contagious.
Is the journey everything you thought it was going to be? Any surprises?
Good luck,
Andy and Vicki (Queens Park, NSW)
Hey Jess,
No duh you probably wont read this comment... there are so many!! Even though I'm a stranger and two years younger than you I wanted to let you know that I was like and quote, "is that girl crazy in the head or something," when i found out, but now i'm looking at what your doing and it's inspiring. I am really proud of you. Your teaching young teenagers to follow their dreams. have a fun movie and popcorn night.
Kaitlyn
Today's Inspirational Quote:
"Everybody has to look at his or her own footprint and do the
best they can. It's not about being perfect, it's about doing
something. If we're looking for perfection, we'll never, ever
get there."
-- Laurie David
11-29-09 @20:15
Hi Jessica,
How's everything going for you way out there? Looks like you're making some good headway, the last time I looked at the map you were just West of Malden. Then they updated the map and there was a big jump in distance, after all the Pink Lady flags were added. I like them for markers, very appropriate.
Hey Jessica, just wanted to share some good news with you, for years I’ve wanted to buy a World Globe, and now I finally did it. I ordered a 13 Inch Antiquador Blue Lapis Gemstone Table Globe with Stand (Silver) from Hayneedle, Inc. I think I'll get a better view of your layout instead of jumping back and forth checking maps. It looks pretty nice (pictures always look nice) but I think I’ll be satisfied with it. That’s my Christmas gift to me, I’m my own Santa Claus. LOL……..
Have you been keeping busy, silly question, but you do need to take a break once in a while.
Not much happening here, weather-wise it’s pretty cool, but we didn’t get as much snow as had been predicted. Go figure!!!
Well Jessica, I’m off to my movie chair, my friend (orange tabby called Leeloo) is ready to settle down now that she has helped me sent this post.
I hope you are well and in good spirits. Chin-up.
I look forward to your next post, so until then;
Take good care of Ella and yourself and wear your harness, stay safe and alert, and keep up the good work. Always proud of you and always thinking of you.
May God be with you and watch over you and may the angels keep your sails full. I will keep you in my prayers.
Michael (74) from Kingwood, WV
Hi Jess,
I agree with Georgia Guy - don't worry about the dills who are suspicious of everything young people try to do - don't bother replying to them they're in the vast minority so just ignore.
Are you putting up any Christmas decs on EPL? Maybe some silver & red tinsel trailing aft might attract some larger pelargics!!
Keep it up you're an inspiration.
bfn - John,Wooroloo WA
Just starting to keep track of your progress. Best of luck, and please watch out for pirates!.
Absolutely Flying you are an inspiration to all, you and EPL are well down past Starbuck Island, watch out for the lumpy bits through French Polynesia, we are following you every step of the way. Go girl.
Cam & Annie “H”
Hi Jessica, what was that animal noise in background of your latest video titled Jessica’s Video Diary – Day 41.
Sounded like a whale or something.
Hope all is well.
--Mike (Seattle, WA)
good job gal !
keep it up ! good job we're proud of you gaaal !
Amazing, Jess! I checked your hot pink "Voyage" progress icons 15 hours ago and again just now--you have worked hard and covered some serious territory, squalls, islands, reefs and all!
The Wundermap Underground Weather Radar site shows some sloppy stuff around French Polynesia, but with the potential, it seems, to push you right along for a while! Wishing you Good Sailing, good eating, good but safe sleep, too, from your family of fans in Northern Nevada in the west USA!
I can't wait every day to get home from work and check to see how your trip is progressing. I'm almost 60 years young and wish I would have had the courage you display.
You have no idea what this trip means to others so please enjoy every moment because it won't be long before you're 60 years old and thinking of the moments you could live again. Do it right the first time because life is so short - be careful, charge forward and watch your spirit grow . . .
Yes Jesse, there is one flaw in the high-tech cameras. You have to keep switching lanes, so there you are, keep tacking and they wont get you on camera. Looks like you are doing very well with the winds and currents. I wont tell the cops you are beating their high tech cameras...:):) Russ.
Hello Jess
I live in Picton NZ and love reading your blogs and keeping up with you on your trip. I do admire you for what you are doing. My biggest trip on our launch is from Picton to D'Urville, and around D'Urville. Also, from Picton across Cook Strait to Wellington. That can be exciting at times.
I too love chocolate.
Keep up the good work.
Retired Nana
Hi Jesse,
Watts a spill chequer?
Hi Jess,
I've just caught up with your video. You look suntanned and busy but, overall, you look happy, and that's what it's all about, isn't it?
What a lovely experience for you and, apart from that damned cargo ship, you've had a beautiful start to your voyage. Congratulations! This could only happen if you and your crew had done the hard yards. Again, well done!
Ian from Brisbane (where it's 34 degrees C and just warming up!)
Nov.29/2009>10:04pm
Jesse have you seen how many views your Videos are getting,"WoW'
The one video of day 5 has 53,000 hits. Way to go Jessica Watson.☺ ☺
♥ ♥ ♥
http://2010canadablogger.blogspot.com/
Hi, Jessica,
This is my second comment on today's post -- sorry if I'm abusing the privilege.
I just watched your Day 41 Video Diary -- thanks for posting it. That squeaking would drive me daft. I'm sure you have some oil along -- but, since you haven't fixed the noise, is it possible that whatever makes it MUST squeak in order to function? Maybe after a while you stop hearing it.
On the other hand, I heard some lovely, spooky sounds that might have been whale songs (or bird calls, but whales seem more likely). Was that really there, or was it my overactive imagination?
I wanted to thank your support crew for bringing the location tags on your tracker map up to date. I mentioned yesterday that those were behind, so thanks for the updates.
Best wishes,
Michael from Texas, USA
Jessica, I'm a big supporter of what you're doing, and I'm going to start reading and responding to each of your blog posts as you make your journey. I think what you're doing is GREAT! Enjoy the mangos and movies
-Ben
go girl go!!!!!!!!
you are fabulous & an inspiration to all.....love reading your blog & would love to see more photos
from a mum...be careful
x karen sydney
Hello Jessica:
If anyone is keeping track, put me down as one of those that never doubted who was writing your blog!
Just eyeballed your progress on the chart. Making a bit of easting, and it appears EPL is hastening along at six knots or better! Wish a passing boat would get a picture of her and you! Hope you get some good pix of EPL heeled over and throwing water around. They will scare the beejesus out of us landlubbers.
Carry on! You are doing a marvelous job.
Todd
by the Big Cold Lake
The Flat Earth Society
Reading through many of the good comments here,I am beginning to think that some People still think the EARTH IS FLAT.
The reason for that is,most people are so used to look at maps that are flat and represent mostly shorter distances.
On the average projection World Map all lines of longitude are marked vertically and all lines of latitude are marked horizontally with each line of longitude or latitude running parallel and at equal distance to the next line.
This of course does not correctly
represent the curvature our Planet Earth ,which is a globe or a sphere and round like a beach ball.
If we want to see why Jessica sails almost due south from the Equator when we look at our "flat Word Map",instead more to the east and toward South America, we will never understand what it means to sail along the line of a "Great Circle"of our World's Globe.
To see Ella's Pink Lady exact course along the "Great Circle" line we need to
find ourselves a "World Globe",a sphere or a beach ball and a piece of string.
We now take our piece of string and line it up tight between 2 points on the surface of our "World Globe",Sphere or Beach Ball.
No matter what 2 points we select,our tightened string between any 2 points across the surface of our "World Globe" will always represent the shortest route to fly or the shortest course to sail across the curved surface of our "World Globe".This piece of string between any 2 points on the surface of our "World Globe",sphere or beach ball will always mark a section of a "Great Circle".
If we fly from Sydney to London tracking a straight line on the"flat Word Map"our course will be: Sydney,south of India on to Iraq and along the Mediterranean and Adriatic Coast and then on to England.We will have flown a much longer curved track or route,but NOT along the line of a "Great Circle".
However if we line up our piece of string between Sydney and London,using our "Globe of the World" instead of our flat world map,we suddenly realize,that we are now flying from Sydney to the Philippines,then even further north into China, onwards deep into Russia over Moscow on to Sweden and straight into England.
We have now traced or sailed along the shortest line between 2 points across the curved surface of our "Globe of the World".
We have navigated along the line of a "Great Circle" the shortest possible route between 2 points on any "World Globe", Sphere or Beach Ball.
Our Distance is the length of the String
between the 2 points,divide that by our Ground speed per hour and we can estimate our time of arrival or ETA.
We arrived six hours or more before the Flat Earth Society,who have gotten lost along the way on their Flat Map.
Now suddenly we come to realize that Planet Earth is NOT FLAT like a road map, but ROUND like a Planet.
And another thing I would like to clear up with the Flat Earth Society: The Sun does not really "Rise and Set" and Earth is is not really the "Center of our vast Universe".
Of Course we all knew that.Man has even landed on the Moon even though cynics believe that to be just another hoax.
Galileo Galilei tried to tell us these scientific facts over 400 years ago,but no one would listen then,not many more listen now.
the great circle:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_circle
Father of Astronomy Galileo_Galilei 1564 –1642
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galileo_Galilei
Thomas L. Friedman-The World Is Flat:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_World_Is_Flat
Sail on Jessica,keep Ella's Pink Lady right on that " Great Circle" line.
Perhaps the Flat Earth Society will one day come to see the error of their ways and the danger of believing for over 400 years that Ignorance was Bliss.
) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ))))))))) …… … … ∆ ˚
gustav haffner
(pilot-navigator)
www.redbaron.com.au/adventures/
Jess you are a wonder! You are a beautiful, inspirational role model. We (my dear husband of 50 years and I) love to sit and spend an hour or more every day reading your blogs and then all the wonderful, beautiful, funny, happy and encouraging words (poems & even pictures) your supporters are writing to you. We often have a lump in our throats and a little tear as people share their thoughts and some of their lives with you and the rest of the world. We know you are keeping up with as many of these posts as you can and thank you for taking the time and the interest in supporting your fans. Your web master is doing a great job!
Do you realise, we wonder, just what is taking place here? Do you understand that a small but rather wonderful MIRACLE is happening in our sometimes troubled, mixed up world? Through the medium of your blog site people from all around the world are coming together in a shared interest and growing love for YOU Jessica Watson, Sailor and Captain! This shared interest is creating an invisible but very real link between us as we smile at the latest update from your 'regulars' and mentally welcome the newbies to the site (the first time commentors).
We mentally greet as old friends and eagerly await the latest posting from (for example) the likes of 'Dusty from Dubbo', Michael(74)from Kingwood WV, Jan from Auckland NZ and Trudy from Austria who is currently holidaying in Queensland. So many names who are becoming familiar and who are gradually revealing themselves through their posts. The world is becoming a happier, friendlier place because of YOU our dear little mariner.
May our Good Lord bless you and keep you in the palm of His hand and may His angels watch over you and keep you safe always.
Praying Psalm 91 and Psalm 139 for you.
Love from a couple of oldies in New Zealand
Hi Jess
The stars must be great
Do you see many falling stars?
All the best
Jo
@ the anonymous couple of oldies in NZ:
Thank you for your beautiful post, and so true!
What Captain Jesse is accomplishing, besides her journey with EPL in itself, is just miraculous. She is unique. Magical!
Hey Jesse,
Just caught up with your latest video and thought, do "they" think that someone is standing in for you there as well? Geez, some people are idiots.
Don't worry about the doubters and the doom and gloom merchants, at least you are giving it a go and your supporters (that's us here) feel lucky to be along for the ride. Stay safe and positive and we look forward to your next post.
Sail on,
Nick
Sydney
Jess, pulling hard for you from Beach, North Dakota, USA. I have a daughter your age. Trying to find the tracker you mention. Would love to SEE where you actually are.
Thanks and "HOLD FAST".
Besrt wishes
Greg S. from MonDak
please please please tell us more technical sailing info like miles traveled , wind speed/direction and how is the boat handling !!!> All us arm chair sailors live for that stuff :)
You have put the best materials/fuel into your boat.Do the same to your body......... or , you'll be sorry !!
Just caught up on four days of updates. Thanks. I really enjoy reading about your adventure.
Florida, USA
Ahoy Jess, I enjoy your blog and don't you worry about using the spell checker, it is just another tool like a GPS. I work for a newspaper and do a fair bit of writing; the spell checker is part of my quality control. Fair winds to Ye! Cap'n Dan, Whitsunday Coast Guardian
I'm just speachless... your'e - wonder. Young, Smart, Nice and Brave.. Just wishing you all the best in your big adventure.
Good luck and good wind..
E.Silva
Lithuania
Hi Jessica
Never doubted for a moment it was you writing the blog.
But if the weather keeps you busy thats cool
Be Safe
Don
Adelade
Jessica - glad to hear you back on and doing fine. Yes, you did worry everyone, now go sail and have fun . . .
Hello Jessica! I'm from Canada but I'm visiting relatives in Sydney, and my Father in law told me about your trip.
Very Daring! I know how it is to watch wave after wave roll by, for I am a Lobster Fishermen back home.
Isn't it amazing how each wave is different and alike to no other, none but you will ever see the face of that wave again. It puts one into the direct experience of the reality of change. Work fast, work well and Be Happy-MicMob
Hello Jessica! I'm from Canada but I'm visiting relatives in Sydney, and my Father in law told me about your trip.
Very Daring! I know how it is to watch wave after wave roll by, for I am a Lobster Fishermen back home.
Isn't it amazing how each wave is different and alike to no other, none but you will ever see the face of that wave again. It puts one into the direct experience of the reality of change. Work fast, work well and Be Happy-MicMob
First time I've logged into your site to check your progress. Must admit I was one who thought that you were too young and inexperienced to attempt your journey.
I guess the negative media after your unfortunate collision influenced me somewhat, as well as many other people.
After ready your blogs it is clear to me you are very skilled and handling the situation with maturity beyond your age.
I guess rounding Cape Horn will become your biggest challenge if the weather is extreme, but I'm sure you will overcome the obstacles. I suppose fear will be your biggest enemy but you will overcome that I am sure.
I look forward to keeping tabs on your progress and I am right behind you.
I'd go for the stars any day Jess, christmas lights.....bah humbug or (whatever it was).
Good to see your charging along and enjoying your time out there, let's face it, it's about 101% more "life enhancing" and fun doing what you are than being locked back in the rat race of the big city.
I've been away from the pooter for a bit so have'nt caught up on all your news yet, so I'd better get to it.
Take care Jess,
Mal, Wendy and Samara.
very good posting. i liked it. :-)
bathmate
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