Sorry I didn't update you all yesterday. I've been catching up on a bit of sleep. I've certainly had an interesting few days.The wind started picking up pretty much right after I'd sent Tuesday's blog and topped at 44knots mid-morning yesterday. Which makes for my first Southern Ocean gale.
Ella's Pink Lady and I came through beautifully and I learned a lot about how she handles when the sea's up. There's a good chance that we'll see worse somewhere along the line, but apart from a bit of fast surfing (a bit too fast for comfort!), everything went really smoothly this time. After a while, some of the waves started to knock us around a bit which got just a little hard on the nerves. But one thing I'm really happy with, is what a good job Parker did keeping us on course!
The sea was really quite something. My best guess would be conservatively 5 metres and far more amazing than any of the pictures or how I'd imagined it! The ocean in a state like that is downright spectacular and fascinating to watch, but I think it's really one of those things you have to experience first hand. I'm not sure I can really describe it and pictures really don't do it any justice.
But the most amazing thing of all was the dolphin that swam along next to Ella's Pink Lady for over 6 hours while the wind was the strongest, just as if he was keeping an eye out for us! Every time I'd glance out the porthole I'd get another little flash of fin or tail just as if he was reassuring me that he was still there. I haven't seen a dolphin for weeks, so to have one see us through the gale like that was something special and very comforting!
The wind and sea kept dying off today, so we're making good ground with nice 15 to 20 knots of wind and 3m of sea. It's currently the middle of the night for me but it hardly seems dark as for the first time in weeks I got a sky full of stars and a brilliant full moon! It's such a novelty that I've spent the last few hours bundled up in more layers that I would have thought possible braving the cold and sitting out in the cockpit taking it all in.
With my mind on other things for the last few days, New Years Eve has crept upon me a lot faster than I'd realized, so I think I'll save my New Year's party for tomorrow in my own time zone. But I would like to wish Happy New Year to everyone out there celebrating tonight. Looks like I'm going to miss the fireworks so make the most of them for me!
Jesse
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
396 comments:
«Oldest ‹Older 201 – 396 of 3965 meters seas; a profound and lovely post. We love hearing about and watching your journey and you beautiful lass, tanks for sharing, best always to you and the Ella’s Pink Lady and the dolphins. Cheers Toola MacRoot
HAPPY NEW YEAR Jesse. May you arrive home safely in the coming months.
How many days at sea has it been now? We're all so very proud of you! Thinking of you lots.
Jules
Wynnum, Brisbane
Dear Jessica,
Hi this is Dilip's friend from India.
It was pleasure reading your blog with the desciption of Dolphin to give you company along with the strong winds.
You are incredible...enjoying the hard times too...
Wishing you a VERY VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR!!
You and Dilip are in our prayers
Go lady Go..
Wishing you all the success.
Swati
Jessica, Sending a Happy New Year greeting from San Antonio Texas. Wishing you safe sailing as you move toward the cape. Rich Cantrell
Happy New Year and good sailing - may the dolphins be with you all the way.
Happy New Year Jessica,
If you think 2009 was amazing... 2010 is going to be "Phenomenal"!! Both during the sail as well as all the events and activity that will occur when you return home. It will truly be a year to remember.
Keep safe, sail fast and remember we are all sailing with you in our hearts...
Rich H.
Scottsdale, AZ
I remember reading years ago about organizers somewhere on the coast of Australia who would take groups of disabled children to the seaside and the dolphins would swim in and play with them. It was very theraputic for the kids. Yes, they seem to be sensitive, empathetic animals and I do not doubt that the dolphin sensed your nervousness and was being there for you. What a wonderful story.
Happy New Year everybody!
Thanks, Jessica.
You are marvellous.
Handling the tough conditions
and still smiling.
Enjoy 2010.
Luv u
Richard (QLD)
Happy New Year to you and the dolphin. Good luck and good sailing in 2010.
Peter and Robyn
HAPPY NEW YEAR Jessica, from Waikato NZ :-))
Ship,Ohoy Captain Jessica.Just want to say Happy New Year.(Godt Nyttår)To You,Your Team and to all the Bloggers out there.That Dolphin story was a nice treat,they are amazing animals I avways was fond of them.Seems like you handled the Storm with 5 meters waves wery well,stay warm and safe and sail into 2010 with flying banners.Here we are 9 hours and 7 minutes from 2010 and its snowy,cold and it blowing North Winds from all directions,hehe.So I will take it all in,in front of the TV. G-d speed Jess and all the best for 2010. Herman.Hampstead.NH.USA.
CONGRATULATIONS ARE DEFINITELY IN ORDER. You did a great job and you can be very proud. Your description of the sea is awesome
and I am happy that you are safe.
Keep up the good work....stay alert...and always stay safe.
Happy New Year and best wishes for continued SUCCESS.
Joe Springfield VA USA
2010. This is the year that you will go into the record books. Say safe and Happy New Year Jess.
Jessica:
When the boat starts surfing too fast, drag a warp (long rope) or anything behind you to give the stern some resistance. That will do two things 1) slow the boat down and make it more in control 2) provide resistance to broaching.
Glad to hear the windvane is doing well in 5 meters. It's looking like you will not have anything worse than that until after the horn.
Happy New Year Jess! It's noon New Years Eve in California. We look forward to the new year with optimism and look forward to the successful completion of your journey. Congrats on weathering your first storm so well. The anticipation is worse than the reality. BTW it sounds like the Dolphin needed company in that storm.
Fly with the wind! Central Coast, California
Jessica:
When the boat starts surfing too fast, drag a warp (long rope) or anything behind you to give the stern some resistance. That will do two things 1) slow the boat down and make it more in control 2) provide resistance to broaching.
Glad to hear the windvane is doing well in 5 meters. It's looking like you will not have anything worse than that until after the horn.
Hey Jessie
Happy New Year to you!!!
Sounds like a rough 24 hours and you needed your sleep. Thinking of you every day and read you too. What an adventure you are having. John is off to Argentina Tuesday and ready for his Antartic Adventure. I hope you two get a chance to talk over the radio somewhere down there. Keep smiling you are doing a fantastic job.
Love & Luck
Sue Canavan SSA
Hi Jess
Don;t worry about the fireworks, I'd rather be where you are any time of day.
As for you buddy out there, he's just showing you the way, after all its his playground.
Hope he comes back for a photo session soon.
Happy New Year Jess
you are the best, so go girl go
KB
Melb.
Happy New Year.
Keep up the good work,..... we are with you.
A truly happy new year from England, its going to be a great year for you Jesse, we're all cheering you on. Tony (Shipshape and Bristol fashion) Bristol UK
Happy 2010 to you Jessie. Keep smiling and take care. That southern swell surfing can be very exciting.
Geoff H.
Bundaberg Qld.
HAPPY NEW YEAR Pet, 2010 certainly will be a memorable year for you, a year of a life time. Love and hugs
Evie from Bendigo
Hi Jesse
Happy New Year to you! Wow - those 5 metre waves sound awesome. You are one brave cookie. To think you had a dolphin for those 6 hours is just beautiful - did you give it a name?
Keep safe, and I look forward to your next blog.
Love,
Joy (South Australia)
xx
To Jonathon from Melbourne the thunderstorms here in Bendigo albeit visually spectacular and wow factor in drenching rain turned the night into one enormous steam bath. Happy New Year
Evie from Bendigo
Hi Captain Jesse, Wow! Five meter seas (16Ft.)and they have settled
down to three meters (9ft.). Amazing! What a ride. Glad EPL got you through the gale. I'm liking
Parker more and more. Maybe He's got a book in him too. Be safe!
Be Happy! Ridem Cowgirl! Godspeed!
Hey Jess! Although I have never sailed solo (what a legend you are!) I know a bit about rough weather at sea! I am so very impressed and proud of you! When things got a little scary I would use this little mantra...."a life lived in fear is a life half lived" (yeah you have heard it a million times.....repeat as many times as necessary! Ha ha!) You go girl! ARRRRRGGGHHHHH! Be enjoyin' rounding that tharrrr Horn! Happy New Year!xxx Debra
Happy New Year Jesse,
What an amazing few days you have had. Your writing really put us in the picture of what you were going through. It must be comforting that you and EPL came through the storm with flying colours.
Having the dolphin with you for 6 hours is incredible. They are an amazing animal.
I cannot believe that you are now only around 1500Nm file Cape Horn. The miles and time are flying by. You are doing a fantastic job and a truly wonderful young lady.
Stay warm and keep safe.
Rob
Inbleburn, NSW
Hi Captain Jesse,
I Forgot. My bad.
HAVE A WONDERFUL AND HAPPY NEW YEAR
TO YOU,YOUR CREW AND YOUR SUPPORT
TEAM!
Hi Jesse,
It brings a tear to the eye when you read all the comments that people send. I don't recall ever seeing someone so young and so strong, have so much support.
After I read what Richie and samurai and some for the others have written, they have said it all.
I would of sent you a message last night, but the computer kept moving, most probably better I didn't, I was pretty full.
We watched the fireworks from Sydney on TV and I'm sure we saw your name bob up.
Well round the horn then off to Sydney.
I can under stand what you mean when you say you cant describe the sea.
I went through a cyclone in the Coral sea in 1966, we had waves coming over the flight deck of a carrier. Something I'll never forget.
Well clear skies and a blue moon, Happy New Year Jess. And Happy New Year to all out there.
Wishing you,Fair winds and following seas.
Angus.
Happy New Year! You're an inspiration for so many.
Happy New Year Jessica!
from Kaisa in Sweden!
I had read about you in a papper in Paraguay. http://www.abc.com.py/abc/nota/58935-Joven-australiana-est%C3%A1-a-20-d%C3%ADas-de-Sudam%C3%A9rica/
Congrats, you can do it.
Cèsar Rolandi - Py.
Happy New Years to you!
-Dimitri, USA
boun anno captain jess! great to hear you got thru the storm! just amazing ! what else can i say? your courage is just amazing! you have the spirit of australia through the dolfins swimming with you and the blessing of a full moon over this peroid! juliano muscara adelaide south australia
Another Jessica Poem
This ones is a tad premature, but about right to draw the picture for others. Happy new Year Jessica. As Neptune's child, you have many of his friends watching over you.
Jessica’s Playground
The swells they grew and lifted high
Steep breakers curled, causing spray to fly
I’d watch that loop, as it dragged behind
Forcing waves, to early break before climb
Some were huge and stayed real smooth
We rode on the crest, wide ocean was viewed
Waves as mountains, all rolling my way
Liquid green cliffs, all streaked with white spray
Wind was whistling, my rigging wires sung
My hand to steer, as each lifting did come
I’d helm to port, as force would drive
My bow to starboard, it tried to dive
Each trough we settled, pink bow would rise
Each back we slid off, seemed another prize
I worked her hard, but stayed the shudder
Each wave I knew, must protect the rudder
It’s time to now, admit I do need
My body is sore, eyes sleep they so plead
I set long rode, from bow to run clear
With parachute full, there’s only rest that I care
The Lady secure, now meeting the storm
Pulpit submerging, each wave it’s the norm
I settle on cabin sole, dressed in my skins
Ears shutting to maelstrom’s, most savaging din
I now know the fear, quietly whispered by few
A feeling of dread, an internal eating of you
A wish that it’s over, a wish of its end
An inner self learning, few comprehend
The storm now has passed, stress ebbing from me
I cry out to Neptune, alive Sir and free
Ella’s Pink Lady, looks like I must
But now I sure know, we’re Sydney or bust.
Brumbyy
Happy New Year to you too, Jesse!
Your dolphin escourt sounds lovely ---- must have helped to keep the nerves calm. But, it sounds like you and EPL did just fine. Good on you!
You are really clicking off the nm's, heading to the cape. Cheers to you and may you have steady winds and a smooth passage.
Happy sailing from California,
Kerri
Happy New Year Jessica; you remain an absolute inspiration. The way you describe the things that happen on your journey of bravery is fantastic to say the least.
Psalm 89:9
You rule over the surging sea; when its waves mount up, you still them.
Good morning, Jesse! You made it through the gale, all seems to have held up, and you almost sound as though you had fun to boot! I LOVE your report of a dolphin accompanying you in the storm. That's a mammal, highly intelligent, and it is just unbelievable that he or she would choose an all-alone 16-year-old young woman in a 34-foot boat to accompany and watch over in a storm. What a picture! Glad you caught up on sleep, too. I am praying for you now, that you will be even more ready for the next such experience, that you will find ways to stay warm and well, and that your family is well at home as they wait, plan, and watch.
.
G.day Jesse...
Great blog !.... and the Dolphin bit is fantastic.!!! Can you snap a piccie ?
Surfing the 5m+ in 40 knots with Ella underfoot is 'hairs-straightened-on-the-back-of-the-neck' stuff. Gees, you might make the Big Left Turn sooner, at this rate! :)).. and your 'voyage map' is now _very_ impressive! :))
Again... the Very Best for 2010. This year is _Your_ year !!! WooHoo.
... Ooc.
So you were surfing along with a dolphin for a running mate..not a bad way to spend a storm! Glad to hear EPL took it in stride. Parker sounds like a very reliable deckhand.
Stars!! I bet you did get excited! And a brilliant moon as well..no wonder you couldn't keep inside!! While I admit I don't generally take the telescope out when the moon is full (its just washed out an no detail-unlike the moon in phasess and you can see into the craters etc..still little known fact..the 'seeing' is better when its cool..er..cold..outside..because theres less turbulence in the atmosphere..meaning a steadier more pristine view through the ete pieces.. But of course..at sea its a little different..(understatement)
I generally like to use binoculars over the water..less corrosive..and usually wider field of view..so the image is what we call 'rich'. A telescope would be quite a trick to keep steady..maybe a gyro..ah..er...maybe just good ole binos...So more birds too huh?... I know you must be relieved to know how she handles in rough water...We're gonna be praying you through Drakes...Blessings Miss Jess..Happiest Of New Years...
Gary & Jan
Savannah,Ga
A modified old expression! Change "In with a Lion out with a lamb" to "Out with a storm in with a dolphin"!! This has to be a "Neptune" good omen!!
Happy New Year and God bless!
John
Happy New Year Jesse!
Congratulations on weathering your first gale in the south! I know you have thought about the big seas a lot, so it must have been great to actually experience a taste of them. I'm sure it was also quite exhilarating! As you say,the only way to understand the reality of it is to go through it and experience it with all your senses.
Sail on Special One!
Richard W
A Happy New Year Jessica to you, your family, your Support Crew, and your huge following of Bloggers.
Well 2010 is the year it will all happen for you Jess (and us too !!). Not long now to Cape Horn, the next of your milestones, followed by the Cape of Good Hope then it’s on to Australia to your wonderful family and friends. We just can’t wait to see that beautiful smile come sailing into Sydney Harbour - and the record books - to fulfil your amazing dream.
The hard part is still to come Jess, so when the going gets tough, keep strong as these are the challenges you have set for yourself. Stay safe dear girl, glad to see you following all the safety rules, and don’t drop your guard for one second, just think of the thousands of people around the world who continually send their love and encouragement to you, and come home as the champion that you are.
Go - Girl - Go !!
With Love from Faye and Max (Mulgrave Vic)
Hi Jessica,
My wife Laura and I heard about your adventure from Abby Sunderland while she was being interviewed on a Radio Station here in Southern California (USA) We want to wish you all the best and a Happy New Year.
Mike B
Hey Jess,
Happy New Year! I guess this year will certainly be one of new achievements for you, reaching new milestones and new heights of fame. It's great that you are such a down to earth person who is willing to share your feelings and life as it is at present. You bring a whole new world of adventure to our lives as we share, in real time, your quest.
You certainly are an inspiration.
Having your own guide who knows the seas so well to be by your side through the southern gale is just amazing and I can imagine how that would be a comfort to you, I thank God for His overseeing your journey and keeping you safe this far and for your dolphin companion.
Jess, keep safe, make wise decisions and God bless and watch over you.
Russell
Sunny Coast Qld
Jessica,
Even though it must have been a 6 hr. thrill ride and more than a little uncomfortable, it must have been a real confidence builder. I’ve been curious how your Fleming windvane would perform under those conditions and you’ve answered that. That’s really outstanding news. Sorry, Parker, I know that we should be on a first name basis by now, but I just wanted to give a little plug to one of the sponsors. Otherwise, there might be a lot of sailors on line looking for their nearest Parker dealer. You know, all of your fine sponsors should be ecstatic that they have a representative as popular as you, Jess. They should all be just as proud of you as we are.
I haven’t heard an update on Minoru Saito since Monday but my guess is that he has left Punta Arenas by now. He was planning on motoring through the Strait of Magellan to resume sailing from the point where his voyage was interrupted by sail and mechanical issues. Since he is sailing east to west, you might be able to toss him a cupcake as you pass each other.
Have fun, stay safe and happy sailing.
From Seattle, WA, USA
Saltydog
Hi Jessica,
Happy New Year.
Glad to hear that you weathered the storm without any problems. Having said that,I'm glad it was you out there and not me! The thought of being on any vessel in a 5 metre swell makes me feel a little green.
Stay Safe.
John F.
Brisbane.
Good update Jess. Gee I feel seasick at the computer. 40 knott wind is enough to blow a dog off a chain. Happy new year from cooloolabin.
Hi,Jessica,
Dropped off my daily blog to you,allot going on this holiday season,got caught up on your updates and you have been a busy young lady the last 48 hours.I miss one day and you are surfing down the waves with your dolphin guiding you along your way,I am sure it was comforting.
Taken down the xmas decorations today.however I have attached your Pink Ribbon ornament to one of my indoor plants to keep your spirirt here daily.
''Parker''showed his stuff during heavy seas,I am so glad he did.
I am a day behind here in Maryland,USA.,so a BELATED HAPPY NEW YEAR to you and your ''crew''.
Can't wait to check the Sydney Harbor celebrations when I finish.
Hope you did ring in the New Year with all your''stuffy crew''along with ''Kiwi''.
Yet to finish my read of all the ''world family '' blogs,but I want to wish all of them a great 2010 and look forward to our continued support for you along your adventure.
Our weather has been ugly today,mix of rain to sleet to snow,I am ready to get our winter over with,I so miss my day's on Bondi,and at Nelsons Park when I was young back in ''Aussie''land.
Think I have been a long winded,so I want to end by saying we are all here for you and you have allot to celebrate going into 2010.You have surpassed allot of peoples expectations of you and the critics by now I hope have come over to support you.
Again to all the ''world family'' a very HAPPY NEW YEAR from here in Maryland,USA.,LETS KEEP THE SUPPORT COMING ALONG WITH ALL THE KIND,IMAGINATIVE WISHES FOR YOU.
Once again young lady God speed and may Gods dolphin keep you safe.
Hugs to you and your ''crew'' on land and at sea.
I WILL TOAST YOU,CELEBRATE YOU in about 6 HOURS FROM NOW.See you next year Jessica.
May the winds keep you true,
Stephen.M.,
Transplanted ''Aussie'',
Maryland,USA.[cold,ugly]
Happy New Year Jessica,
I have already commented on your first storm.
A great confirmation, that Ella handled the storm as well as you did, that all the equipment functioned perfectly.
I know what you mean, that photos can't do these ocean scenes justice.
I took quite a number of photos in that squall, winds 25 knots peaking at 31, us speeding along at over 7 knots and when I look at them, I can't see what it felt like!!!!
I have yet to experience what you are experiencing!
Still in awe about the dolphin, but not surprised that he/she accompanied you!
They are highly attuned to harmony and that is what you emanate, harmony in your being!
Glad that you are still speeding along!
You had the best firework show, the stars Jessica, for them I would have stayed up!
Happy New Year to All,
keep happy, keep well, have fun and above all stay safe,
Trudy/Austria/Mackay
Jessica,
Wishing and your shore crew and the blog community a healthy, successful Happy New Year. Its only 5.52 pm, Dec 31st, here in Nova Scotia and there is a full moon out there tonight.
Now that you have experienced winds of 44 knots and 5 meter waves with a positive result, handling the same or worse will be a lot easier on you, perhaps even be looking forward to bigger seas to conquer along with you dolphin friend.
Be safe.
Ozca,
From the Bras d'Or Lakes and "Bluenose2"
Happy New Year from Cooroy Jess to you and your amazing team! I got goosebumps reading about the dolphin that kept you company throughout the storm!
Margaret
Hi Jessica
What follows is a “This is your Life” summary of your progress so far - culled from your blog reports. May I apologise in advance for any inaccuracies.
At a very young age you listened to your mum reading ‘Lionheart’, the book about eighteen-year old Jesse Martin’s 1999 solo, non-stop and unassisted voyage around the world from Sandringham on Port Phillip Bay in a 34ft Sparkman & Stephens yacht he named ‘Lionheart’. You were captivated by this story and soon discovered another Australian, Kay Cottee, had completed a similar solo, non-stop and unassisted voyage from Sydney to become the first woman to complete this task.
The years went by and you learnt to sail, presumably on the waters of the inlet at Mooloolaba, a popular holiday place on the coast of Queensland not far north of Brisbane. Mooloolaba has a large Marina used by ocean-going yachts and no doubt the sight of their masts and rigging became an early fascination as you dreamed of following in the footsteps of Jesse and Kay.
Then, in May 2008, you heard about an opportunity to sail with an organization called Oceanwatch from New Zealand to Fiji and back to New Zealand on a boat called ‘Magic Roundabout’. You did that trip – to gain experience – and although you learnt much about the aches and pains associated with ocean sailing, your appetite for the sea became unquenchable so instead of flying home you sailed home to Brisbane on another boat.
By this time your mind was made up. You learnt how to use a spell-checker and worked on a proposal for obtaining sponsorship with assistance from your Mum and Dad, and a group of helpful friends.
By October (2008) you had reeled in a few businesses interested in sponsoring you and you continued to increase your sailing experience by sailing on a large catamaran named ‘Big Wave Rider’ which was owned by Bruce Arms who later became your Project Manager’. On this trip you experienced the use of a drogue (parachute) designed to slow a boat running downwind in a storm. You followed this trip with some racing with the Cairns Yacht Club before returning home to begin doing presentations to raise interest in your planned voyage.
On 2 December 2008 your new website “youngestround.com” was launched and you set a target date for departure as ‘late next year’ (2009). About the same time you acknowledged the efforts of Zac Sutherland and Mike Perham and became ever more determined to become the youngest female to sail solo, non-stop and unassisted around the world.
You again joined a crew on ‘Magic roundabout’ and set off from Mooloolaba to conquer the Tasman, known by Aussies and New Zealanders as ‘The Ditch’. It was a trip planned to give you hands on experience making all the decisions required to complete the voyage and you experienced a variety of weather conditions and learnt much from it. It was a voyage in which you learnt how to set a steering wind vane, how to tolerate little and no wind, how exciting it was to be accompanied by sea birds and dolphins, what it was like in a ‘bouncy’ 3 metre sea and strong wind, and what ‘living aboard’ a boat was really like.
During January 2009 you again joined the crew on ‘Big Wave Rider’ and learnt what it was like to fix rigging things while suspended from the top of a yacht’s mast.
Around that time too, you gained a number of sponsors and Bob McDavitt, a well known meteorologist from New Zealand offered his support and weather routing service for your voyage.
Early in February you departed Mooloolaba for Hobart, Tasmania, on ‘Big Wave Rider’ and on the way you called in at Southport and Sydney and sailed under Sydney Harbour Bridge for the first time. On this trip you experienced the use of a solo climbing system to climb ‘BWR’s’ swaying mast to fix a lashing on the radar reflector near the top of the mast while at sea. [to be continued]
Tony L (Mt Martha VIC)
Hi Jessica (Part 2)
In Hobart you met Don McIntyre, a very experienced solo sailor who was to become one of your most valued supporters, and who provided the boat in which you would sail to fulfill your dream. You then went to New Zealand to board a yacht called ‘Evohe’ for a trip to Campbell Island, at latitude 52 S, for experience in the cold conditions of the ‘furious fifties’, you recently referred to as the ‘fearsome fifties’. Back home again, and March became a month of looking for sponsorship and raising awareness of your plans.
During May your press conferences became increasingly frequent, you celebrated your sixteenth birthday, studied for your Ocean Yachtmaster certificate, learnt to use a sextant, gained your Australian Boat Licence, began sailing an S&S 34 referred to as ‘Youngestround.com’, and took it to the Sanctuary Cove international Boat Show on the Gold Coast south of Brisbane. After that ‘Youngestround.com was stripped down and one by one her numerous faults were fixed. Nothing was to be left to chance and a steady stream of new equipment was fitted to make her as safe as she could be.
In June you did a sea survival course, learnt how to maintain a marine diesel engine, how to diet on the trip, and listened to Don McIntyre and Mike Perham quiz you on how you would cope with numerous different sea scenarios.
In July ‘Youngestround.com’ was painted pink, and on 27 July 2009 she was renamed ‘Pink Lady’ and trucked to Sydney for the Sydney International Boat Show, and you attended many interviews with Don McIntyre, Jesse Martin and other supporters. ‘Pink Lady’ was then returned to Mooloolaba for more fitting out to make her ready for the voyage.
On 2 September 2009 Ella Bache stepped on board as your major sponsor and ‘Pink Lady’ became ‘Ella’s Pink Lady’.
It was time for action. On 8 September you departed Mooloolaba and the Sunshine Coast for Sydney. You overcame a hiccup caused when you didn’t give way to a ship and made an unscheduled visit to Gold Coast City Marina for repairs before again departing for Sydney on 1 October.
Ella Bache ‘launched’ their involvement as major sponsor on 12 October and ‘Ella’s Pink Lady’ was readied for departure. Those of us who were following your progress began to sense your building excitement, and interest in the date of your departure from Andrew Short Marine at The Spit on Sydney’s Middle Harbour increased.
Then, on 17 October 2009 you announced: “Tomorrow I’m going to get up and sail around the world!”
Since then you have done just that. You stepped up to the mark and set off to fulfill your chosen task, and as time went by you ticked the boxes and wrote ‘job done’ as you passed each goal you set to achieve your dream.
And now, at the end of 2009 you have Cape Horn in your sights and have accumulated a large following of International supporters who communicate with you via your blog pages and think of themselves as part of your ‘extended family’, and an even larger collection of blog-readers interested in your daily progress.
You have become renowned as a wonderfully descriptive writer, a photographer who teases us with the beauty of all that the sea and sky has to offer, a video commentator with a unique sense of understated humour, and Australia’s most famous “Chocaholic”!
You are ‘our’ Jessica and we congratulate you on your progress this year and wish you, your Mum and Dad, brother and sisters and other members of your real family an exciting and wonderful 2010. Happy New Year!
Tony L (Mt Martha VIC)
HAPPY NEW YEAR BABA, MAY YOU HAVE A PEACEFULL SEA AND ALL THE HAPPINESSS,
Awesome blow by blow account, feel like we are riding the waves with you, I even looked out my window for the dolphin !!, I have watched your blog from day one and quietly look forward to the next blog, but understand things happen and the crew have work to do. Enjoy the moment, life is not a dress rehearsal, g8 to c u making the most of everymoment.
Garry NZ
Awesome blow by blow account, feel like we are riding the waves with you, I even looked out my window for the dolphin !!, I have watched your blog from day one and quietly look forward to the next blog, but understand things happen and the crew have work to do. Enjoy the moment, life is not a dress rehearsal, g8 to c u making the most of every moment.
Garry NZ
Hi,Jessica,
Dropped off my daily blog to you,allot going on this holiday season,got caught up on your updates and you have been a busy young lady the last 48 hours.I miss one day and you are surfing down the waves with your dolphin guiding you along your way,I am sure it was comforting.
Taken down the xmas decorations today.however I have attached your Pink Ribbon ornament to one of my indoor plants to keep your spirirt here daily.
''Parker''showed his stuff during heavy seas,I am so glad he did.
I am a day behind here in Maryland,USA.,so a BELATED HAPPY NEW YEAR to you and your ''crew''.
Can't wait to check the Sydney Harbor celebrations when I finish.
Hope you did ring in the New Year with all your''stuffy crew''along with ''Kiwi''.
Yet to finish my read of all the ''world family '' blogs,but I want to wish all of them a great 2010 and look forward to our continued support for you along your adventure.
Our weather has been ugly today,mix of rain to sleet to snow,I am ready to get our winter over with,I so miss my day's on Bondi,and at Nelsons Park when I was young back in ''Aussie''land.
Think I have been a long winded,so I want to end by saying we are all here for you and you have allot to celebrate going into 2010.You have surpassed allot of peoples expectations of you and the critics by now I hope have come over to support you.
Again to all the ''world family'' a very HAPPY NEW YEAR from here in Maryland,USA.,LETS KEEP THE SUPPORT COMING ALONG WITH ALL THE KIND,IMAGINATIVE WISHES FOR YOU.
Once again young lady God speed and may Gods dolphin keep you safe.
Hugs to you and your ''crew'' on land and at sea.
I WILL TOAST YOU,CELEBRATE YOU in about 6 HOURS FROM NOW.See you next year Jessica.
May the winds keep you true,
Stephen.M.,
Transplanted ''Aussie'',
Maryland,USA.[cold,ugly]
Happy New Year Jesse may all your dreams come true.
Lex and Gail queensland
Happy New Year Jessica.
5metreswell Tasmania
That electrical storm last night put on an awesome show from Melbourne to Hobart.
What's better than fireworks?
Nature in the raw & you're right amongst it Jessica.
You didn't miss anything!
Best Wishes
StuntTrader
Tas
5:46 P.M. December 31, 2009
Hi, Jessica,
Just wanted to let you know that you can Google: "Sydney Australia New Years Fireworks" and get the whole celebration on your Toughbook. It's really spectacular, and you can hear the crowd noise and it's also got music co-ordinated with the bursts. It lasts 12 minutes and 28 seconds, and towards the end, but before the FINALE, you can see a beautiful view of sailboats silhouetted in the harbor. IThe website should be the first one that comes up when you put it in Google. It's titled: 'Sydney Australia New Years Fireworks World Rings in New Decade". Then, select the one below it that show that it's a Video. It's titled: :Watch the Whole of Sydney's New Year's Fireworks Display!!!!
If you are in Zone 6 time, you have almost 7 hours to have a chance to read this and still be able to watch it when you sail from 2009 into 2010 . . . smoothly, we hope!
Have a special celebration, Jesse, and please don't feel alone. We'll be thinking of you and sending our love . . . and squeezing your hand to keep on encouraging you in your mind-boggling adventure.
The more I read about others who have done what you're doing . . . including Sir Robin Knox-Johnson (who was almost 30 at the time), the more I admire your courage and your grit!
We all have a new hero in our Jessica, and we will be right with you all the way!
Sending Prayers and Hugs, and Best Wishes for a Wonderful, Safe, and Exciting 2010!!!
Carol, Florida U.S.A.
Hey Jesse
HAPPY NEW YEAR - So pleased the Dolphin delivered our messages on time and she stayed with you to help you ride out the southern gale. You came through with flying colours she tells me and endured your first real 'southern blast' with ease .... well most of the time anyway.
Was thinking of you last night while I was out on the town looking at the same moon - wasn't it just spectacular, a bit misty here but great all the same.
You continue to impress me with your abilities and your positive outlook. Keep on keeping on.
Love Aunty Chris (damp Tamworth, NSW, Oz)
Hey Girl! That dolphin was your guardian angel!! Boy what a workout for that angel huh? Glad everything went well! Happy New Year!
Deborah in Wilmington, NC USA
Oh Jesse, you're amazingly brilliant. Congratulations on coming through the gale unscathed and it seems, if possible, even more confident. We read that you were sometimes travelling at 10 knots - methinks that is something more than EPL's hull speed! Must have been quite exhilarating, and just a tad scary. It does wear on the nerves when the boat is being knocked around - physically and mentally very tiring - but you know you have a sound yacht and she is as prepared as she could possibly be, so she should see you through.
And photos never do really capture what the seas are like. I know I've taken photos of some big seas and then when I look at them I realise they don't look at all impressive. It's good if you can see the ocean in all her moods as fascinating and spectacular, I think it helps you to work with it rather than try to struggle against it. And it sounds as though you have had some very special moments that have touched you in various ways.
It was lovely you had your guardian angel to keep you company too.
And hey, it was a full moon here too, what a coincidence! :-)
My partner and I went for a bush walk to watch the sun set and have a picnic dinner, and it was great walking back in the dark as we had a full moon to guide us and we didn't need our torches.
15-20 knots of wind should help you along your way, assuming it's from the right direction. You'll be past the cape before you know it.
Well, it seems there's no need to wish you fair winds today. Maybe instead to hope that you get a chance to rest some more, and maybe you need to do a bit of housework too after that little adventure.
Thinking of you daily
Toni
Happy New Year Jessica! Great going with the weather, and the dolphin too... that must have been so nice. You're doing incredibly, and we're with you ;) Safe journeys!
Happy New Year Jess! We celebrate here in BC in about 9hrs. We are going down to a frozen lake for a bonfire with ice skating and cross country skiing. Worlds away from your celebration!
Enjoy the full moon tonight. It's also a blue moon. What a great way to start the new year!
The story of the dolphin following you was beautiful. They are amazing creatures, good luck mascot for sure! That must have been exciting getting out of your first big storm. Nice work!
All the best for 2010. I look forward to reading your blog daily.
Keep up the good work sister!! :)
Jesse
Happy New Year and best wishes for 2010, to you and of course all of your ground crew!
If you guys thought 2009 has been a little crazy, I suspect you aint seen nothing yet ;-)
Also, Happy New Year to the thousands of Jesse-ettes (hmm. Jess-ters?) out there in the blogosphere.
And finally, RESPECT for the way you so nonchalantly described negotiating 5M+ seas / Force 9 winds!!; made me smile ;-), you may just as well been recounting a walk to the shop for a litre of milk!!
Take care
Latitood (Brent)
Happy New Year Jesse.
I guess you know the media here are reporting you as 'approaching the half way mark of your journey'.
What a change from their cynical masterpieces of early October?
Re: Your Care Dolphin - What a wonderful companion to have in a time of anxiety. You deserved him (her?) of course and will no doubt be provided with guiding lights whenever you need them.
Have a great New Year celebration in your land of the midnight stars.
Alan and Lena, Gold Coast, Oz
hiya jesse
happy new year jesse its great to hear epl and you came through that storm ok and had someone keeping an eye on you i have taken pictures and they dont look anywhere as good as being there and seeing it first hand
anna
To Samurai, very creative with auld lang syne, my favourite new year song and vary rarely heard now, thanks for that. Happy New Year to all fellow bloggers, may 2010 be healthy, prosperous and happy. And of course for Jesse, her family and support crew
Bron Central West NSW
No need to apologise for not updating, we'll all still be here, you're the one "going places" and have lots to take care of. We love the vision of the Dolphin. Happy New Year and enjoy the full moon. V&L QLD
Happy New Year Jessica
We had booked for a cruise on the Pacific Dawn at Easter.
Slightly bigger than the Pink Lady, but I think our paths would not cross,
Jessica,
Know that astern of you is a nation of very proud FOLLOWERS.
When you again dock in Sydney your reward will be a lifetime of satisfaction knowing that you are a LEADER.
GO AUSSIE GO
A Very Happy New Year to you Captain Jessica!!! Great sailing in 2010!!!
John
Brooklyn, NY USA
Happy New Year, Jessica! Well done getting through your first wild weather, we all knew you could do it. Wonder if that dolphin likes pink? Maybe he thought EPL was his mother! Whatever, it would have been lovely to have that company during a testing time. Not long now to the Cape, good luck.
Jessica,
Happy New Year and hope you aren't to lonely tonight.
Be safe and enjoy your night.
Take care and God bless you,
Jennifer
Milan, USA
Jess you are doing really well. Happy New Year to you and everyone connected with your travels. We celebrated quietly last nigh but did see the fireworks.
Jess, be safe as the seas get more challenging. We hope 2010 will be a good year for you and the way you are going you will achieve your dream.
Keith & Anne Hervey Bay Queensland.
Happy New Year Jesse,
Great description (as usual) of the last couple of days. Aren't dolphins intriguing animals? Did this one really know there was someone on this pink boat surfing the waves who would get a kick out of seeing it? Was the dolphin looking for company? Or was it just that it liked the music blaring through the hull?
Any way you want to look at it, they are amazing creatures. Thanks for sharing with us.
Take care and sail on,
Nick
Sydney
Hi Jess - we also knew about wind in - Melbourne last night - we nearly all got blown away! Happy New Year and your dolphin was your guardian - she was watching over you - definately. Stay safe - and we are reading the blogs daily and watching you approach the windy Cape.
HAPPY NEW YEAR JESSE!!!
Your time in the gale with the dolphin sounds exhilirating!
Have a wonderful New Years Eve and stay safe, I'll see you in 2010!
~Deidre NC, USA
HAPPY NEW YEAR JESSE,
Glad you and EPL came through the storm okay.
We had a very hot day yesterday with several fires in the area but later in the day had a storm with plenty of thunder and lighting and about 17ml of rain. This morning is damp but very humid. The local New Years Day races are on but think we will give them a miss today.
Hope you have caught up on some sleep and celebrate New Years Eve with your crew.
Happy New Year to your family and team.
May 2010 be one to remember,
Best wishes,
Joy
Ballarat.
i had a dolphin escort me across Port Underwood in NZ. I was in a small flat bottomed aluminium boat with about 10cms freeboard in a swell of about 2m.
Jack (the dolphin) appeared when I was starting to think I wasn't going to get out of it and I followed him around to the next bay and out of danger. Pretty cool animals huh?
Hi Jess,
Thanks for keeping the comments coming and especially the photos. You are doing a great job and experiencing natural beauty at first hand. Some great sunsets! Sounds like EPL is doing a great job.
Take care,
Rodney
Ecuador
Hi there Jess
My congratulations go out to you, for having the courage to follow your dreams at such a young age. For so many of us we take up that challenge much later in life. What a difference we could have made during the last 30 years, with your same courage and commitment, to inspire those around us to for fill their dreams.
What an effect your courageous voyage will have, not only for you, your family and friends but the world, young and old alike.
The world needs more young movers and shakers JUST LIKE YOU.
I just love reading your blog along with all those fantastic comments, that are coming in from friends and followers all over the world.
BON VOYAGE Canberra
Good luck Jessie I read you blog everyday and it reminds me of my day at sea in the merchant navy
Mick of werribee
12-31-09 @ 19:12
Hi Jessica,
I was just re-reading you're latest post and enjoying it all over again. I can only imagine how much you enjoyed it, sounds like the bit of fast surfing took your breath away. A thriller!!!!!
But I still can't get over the dolphin staying with you during the storm, that's incredible. Even the sea creatures love you. LOL…..
The starry night with a full moon sounded nice, I’m glad you got some time to relax and enjoy the sights.
It’s good that you got a little closer with EPL in regards to how she handled the rough water, getting a close feel for her. You still may encounter rough water, maybe rougher than what you just went thru. But it doesn’t sound like either one of you will have any trouble handling it.
For Samurai:
I liked your Auld Lang Syne and I even sang it until the neighbors thought that I was in severe pain. LOL…....
Enjoyed the new pic also, thanks. (I know it’s not just for me but I enjoy them). Hope you enjoyed New Years Eve.
Michael
Well Jessica, hope you will be getting in touch with the family so enjoy yourself this evening. Happy New Year to all.
Looking forward to your next post, and some pics if possible.
Loads of love and hugs, your faithful fan and follower.
May God be with you and watch over you and may the angels keep your sails full, and I will keep you in my prayers.
Michael (74) from Kingwood, WV
Good luck Jessie I read your blog everyday, it reminds me of my days at sea in the merchant navy
Hey Jess
Bang,fizz,boom,hip hooray,wahoooo, glig glug glug HAPPY NEW YEAR Aust. time.....I must be the only bloke in Aust working today in my profession ah well so glad you have caught up on sleep and that you have had your first successful storm if their is such an expression for you have just come through
Stay clipped and rugged up and enjoy the blue moon brilliant here last night along with the stars
HAPPY N Y again
Sea ya
Dusty from Dubbo
Hey Jess
Bang,fizz,boom,hip hooray,wahoooo, glig glug glug HAPPY NEW YEAR Aust. time.....I must be the only bloke in Aust working today in my profession ah well so glad you have caught up on sleep and that you have had your first successful storm if their is such an expression for you have just come through
Stay clipped and rugged up and enjoy the blue moon brilliant here last night along with the stars
HAPPY N Y again
Sea ya
Dusty from Dubbo
Wow! That sounds exciting! The conditions would have scared me beyond death!
If experience is the best teacher and we are all happy you now have a good trial under your belt. EPL must have been disappearing in the swells.
A storm at sea you can't escape. You have to deal with it! Great work!
Happy new year to you as well! I am sure 2010 will be an amazing year for you!
Blessings,
See Ya Sailor!
Happy New Year Jessica. You are an absolute legend. I've spent a lot of time at sea in wild weather off of West Oz, and it is spectacular. Just gotta have faith in your boat and yourself. Can't tell you how impressed I am that a girl (or anyone for that matter) is doing what you are doing. Very impressive and inspirational. Have a great 2010! Mark
Hi Jesse, Supergirl, Thrill seeker,
5mtrs seas and 80km winds..mmmm…. now let me think about that for a moment....Yep, can't imagine that really.
How lovely was Dolphy just hangin with ya, you have a kinship happening with King Neptune's sea creatures and feathered sea friends. You are most definitely the master of all that you survey and you eat high seas for breakfast !!
Seriously, I was pretty gob smacked at what you described :-o 5mtr seas is like a how many story high building? So glad you were happy with EPL’s performance and Parker for keeping you on course, go you good thing Parker !! How did the crew go? Did you name the Gale? I knew you would encounter rough seas one day and the southern ocean would live up to the Fearsome 50’s name. Does not make it any less intense though, when it does happen. Phewww. As I have said to you before, lucky you wear your undies on the outside for a lesser person that would have been a bit of a worry. You are a champ Jesse, take care, and Happy New Year !!
PS. to blog family. Hope you all had a good New Years …. If I knew I was going to feel this thirsty this morning, I would have had another drink last night. Once a year I remind myself why I don’t drink much. Cheers !!
Hi Jessica, or do you prefer Jesse?
You’re an inspiration. In my case, that’s not just words, but reality.
At an age when I’m old enough to be your grandfather, I’ve begun writing a first novel. And in some ways it’s every bit as difficult as what you’re doing. There’d been times I felt like packing it in.
But then I started reading your blog and I said, if you can do it, so can I. When it comes time for publication, your name will be there somewhere on the acknowledgements page.
Best Wishes from The Backward OX, in the upper reaches of the Brisbane Valley.
I was thrilled to hear your dolphin (guardian angel) stayed by your side, there are times when we need to know we have one. Just love reading your blog.
Claire
Happy New Year Jessica. That dolphin sure knew good company when he saw it. Keep safe. Marg Bessen, Mypolonga. SA
Hi Jess, What a brave heart you are. Our world needs more of your type. You will be able to handle Cape Horn with all our Prayers. I am following you with my fellow country man Dilip. I believe he has struck some gear problems. I wish both of you a safe and memorable sailing. Prakash [Melbourne].
Hey Jessica. Thanks for your continued optimism and positive attitude. It is truly a gift to read your blog as it encourages me to get out there and sail more but to take each day as it comes. Happy New Years!
Lauren
Hello Jessica and Happy New Year from Northern California!
As usual, your blog was so cool to read. It's almost like being with you on that boat. And you had the best creature ever swimming right next to you! Glad to hear that you finally had a challenging sea!
Stay safe and warm....
With much admiration!
Momma C
Potter Valley, California
I wish everyone out there in Jessica's blogworld a very Happy New Year. What a great bunch of people she has brought together!
Tonight is a full moon. The second full moon of December which makes it a Blue Moon. The first Blue Moon on Dec 31 since 1990. Before Jessica was born. The next Blue Moon on Dec 31 will be in 2028. So look up tonight and enjoy the Blue Moon and know that we'll all be seeing it as you see it tonight. It's one thing we can all see and enjoy tonight. (at least half the world at once can) :) Hey! it only happens once in a "Blue Moon" :)
It'll be a bit south of straight overhead tonight here in South Dakota. And quite a bit lower on Jessica's Northern horizon.
It's -19C/-6F at 6:30PM as I write this.
http://science.nasa.gov/headlines/y2009/29dec_bluemoon.htm?list116405
HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ONE AND ALL
Well Jess, your first big storm and a dolphin to match.
Everyone of your adopted parents is so proud of you and your achievements.
We spent News Years eve on the beach at Broadbeach, best fireworks for years. Very small crowd here as the weather hasn't been to good of late. The new alcohol laws are keeping people at home
Keep the blogs coming as they are still as good as ever,
Once again Happy New Year to everyone concerned with this amazing journey
God Speed
Peter and Sally
Hey Jessica,
That little dolphin was just a disguise. I think an angel followed you through the gale. I heard they are good luck though, and I hope you have continued success coming through the rough times. I'm glad to hear Ella's Pink Lady did well in 44 knots of wind and 5 meter(+)seas.
I'm sure you are checking Ella over real good for wear and tear after that gale. I'm sure you both took quite a beating!
Yeah Parker! Parker 'rocks!' And of course, so does Captain Jessica!
Happy New Year from Colorado~U.S.A.
Happy New Year, Sailor Girlie.
I was so happy to read about your dolphin companion.
Another sign that Mother Nature is sending guardians your way.
Stay safe in those high winds.
May 2010 be your best year ever.
Blessings,
Molly
Maryland USA
12-31-09 @19:50
For Tony L (Mt Martha VIC):
This is ironic, I was waiting for some new posts and decided to take a look back at the past. I went back to the beginning and casually strolled through Jessica’s adventures. Then the posts came in and I came across your beautifully written summary of Jessica’s adventures. I couldn’t believe it, De Ja Vous (I think ?????) Very well done Tony. You definitely deserve a Gold Star for that one. I have always enjoyed your posts but never commented on them, I couldn’t pass this one.
Keep up the good work, I filed that one in my Special Letters file.
Thanks again Tony and have a Happy New Year.
Michael (74) from Kingwood, WV
Happy New Year to you Jess from a slightly overcast and very humid Hervey Bay.
Sounds like some rough seas there for you.......I would have been rather scared, being on my own and all. But you have seemed to take it all in your stride! way to go girl!
Was so nice hearing about the dolphin swimming alongside of you keeping you company. He must have known you would be comforted by his being there.
Sounds pretty chilly too.......I wouldn't mind some cooler weather if you could organise some of that cold wind and temps to come over to the mainland. I think a lot of people are way over the heat and humidity of late.
Any more contact with the guy from India who is sailing not too far from you?
Stay safe Jess, and may the rest of your trip approaching and rounding the Cape, be not too scary for you.
By the way, in case you didn't know already, they are bringing back Hey Hey its Saturday this year. Not sure what night it will be on, but lots of fans of this show will be happy to see its return.
Safe travels, smooth sailing.
Lily in Hervey Bay, Queensland.
Hi Jessica
Love you blog, Been following you every day. Would love to know what speed you get up to when the wind is blowing a gale. How are you able to change sails over for or drop sails in those sort of conditions?
Have a happy new year.
Dave Gympie
Hi Jessica, Love watching your blogs every day. Can you tell us what speed you get up to in strong winds. Love to know what you top speed is. Must be difficult adjusting sails in gale winds. Have a happy new year.
Dave
Gympie
Hey Jessica Happy New Year! We are all very proud of you!
I tried to post this to you yesterday (Last year) but it didn't go through!
Hey Jess, you know when they say "STAY IN BETWEEN THE FLAGS" you know they're talking about the little gap don't you??? Not the big one! lol
Well the new years almost here Jess and I've got 2 parties they want me to go to! I honestly couldn't be bothered! But hey, there both walking distance and it could be fun!
I'll try to count it down with you on your blog but if I can't have a good one Jesse!
Hope you’re able to get some down time and fit in a few good cat naps and chats back home!
Hey! Whilst you are running out there along side dolphins and they are enjoying your wake, they are also curious on knowing who you are, they already know that your alone, they know your age and that you’re a female, they are extremely family orientated, they adopt each other, other species and even embrace the human race!
I know you love animals (Because that’s just you) and I’m sure you’re their friend.
If by chance you went over board or your boat went down and you have dolphins as friends they will circle you and protect you from any predator of the ocean.
They don’t live in any one place as they are also adventurists, they migrate and travel. But they do return to their favourite conditions in a cycle!
They are experts in cat napping as they will only sleep for minutes at a time. Only half of there brain shuts down to sleep whilst the other half is scanning the ocean for dangers and then it swaps over!
They are much more intelligent than us and as much as we’d like to communicate with them they are communicating with us!
In my perspective the dolphin is the Labrador of the sea, but so much smarter!
If a woman is pregnant and even before showing, if she is in their ocean they can see it clearly. (Two hearts beating as one loud and clear to them). They will protect a pregnant female more so.
As a friend they would circle you and protect you unconditionally!
But don't go over board just to test that hey! lol
If you can find the scars on a dolphin or something that you can identify it with you may find the same dolphin is back with you weeks later.
Keep talking to them Jess, let them see your true emotions, maybe keep your lure up and try not to flash them with your camera at night.
They are smarter than us but they are also hunted so they may not understand what you are doing.
If your singing is as bad as you say then don’t sing to them! Lol. I’m sure they’d love it though!
You’re probably a bad fisher woman because you don’t like killing things. It’s ok to kill fish Jess, it’s what they’re there for and dolphins love to eat fish!
Not cool to hurt or capture any marine mammal.
They are the Guardians of the ocean and they are good for nothing else, except for being them selves.
The dolphins are cheeky show off’s and have an awesome sense of humour! If you get to know them and if you get the chance, watch how high your friends are jumping and doing all the tricks they do, when you are watching them, then go inside and watch from your window and see how they stop showing off so much.
You can’t wipe the smile off a dolphins face Jess!
Be safe Jesse!
Happy New Year if I don't get to say it later kiddo!
Billy!
PS. GO JESS GO!
PPS. I bet you've never stayed in between the flags!
Today's Inspirational Quote:
"The greatest mistake you can make in life is to be
continually fearing you will make one."
-- Elbert Hubbard
To Franklin
January 1, 2010 6:17 AM
I'm just interested. Do you really think dragging a long rope or anything behind you when you're running downwind is a good idea? What if it gets fouled up on anything that would then cause Jessica more trouble than it's probably worth?
Over...
Wow Jess,
It seems that you're going briliantly! To have a dolphin swiftly swimming beside you for 6 hours is amazing and it wou'd of bee a treat! Keep up a great work and have a happy 'New Year!'
From Greta!
Jess, you are truly and amazing person and it's a pleasure, for us all, to accompany you via your Blog. Stay safe and enjoy.
Warren (Armidale, NSW)
Happy New Year Jessie! That sounded like quite a storm you went through.Dolphins are amazing creatures.A very special encounter for you.Been following you from the start and am very proud of you.God bless you and keep you safe.Looking forward to the cape horn.Aloha from Hawaii.
Don & Lek Haren
Keaau,Hawaii
Hi Jesse, well you have done well with your first Gale as we knew you would, and I loved the dolphin visit, what a wonderful animal they are and you now have another follower!!!!! HAPPY NEW YEAR to you and may all your dreams come true. Roger and Lou Dwyer
Saltydog you made me laugh out loud with your post "parker and I should be on first name basis by now, but wanted to give a plug to the sponsors..... a lot of people on line looking for a 'parker'.
The blog family are just wonderful, the old salts have some great hints and tips, the adopted mums, dads, grandparents are so caring and protective, everyone else is just amazing... it would be great to have a 'jessicas extended family reunion'!
Its wonderful such an amazing young lady living her dream has inspired the world. I salute you Jess!
Blessings for the rest of your journey until you return safely to port.
Happy New Year Jesse. Best wishes for safe and happy sailing always. Always keen to keep up to date with your blog. Glad to hear you're in touch with another fellow sailor- similar experiences to share I'm sure. Signed Tina from Sydney.
Dear Tony L (Mt Martha VIC)
January 1, 2010 8:09 AM
I thoroughly enjoyed reading the awesome compilation of events you've masterfully put together. What an incredible "This is your Life" story of young Jessica Watson. I already knew the whole story but reading it just now made me tear-up and filled me with pride and admiration. Thankyou so very much for your time and effort, Tony.
Kindest regards...Sam
Jess,
U have the stars for your fireworks, theyd look beautiful!!
Lets hope u dont get the fireworks we had...even thou it looked amazing.. mother nature puts the best shows on when u r on land and safe under a roof watching the lightning, with the wind we had, we were on a hill, the wavess would be huge!!!
U are such an inspiration!!! hope i spelt that correct!!!
U must be special, the dolphin would have been amazing!!
Kate & Family
Melton, Vic, Aus.
!!!Happy New Years 2010 Jesse!!!
Keep those dreams going and 2010 will be the year for you...breaking that record.
Glad to see you had a friend keeping and eye on you, just a swimming around Pink Lady, bet that was a sight to see.
Sleep! Thought you were caught up by now...Ha! Ha! Guess it is getting colder out there by now, do you have any kind of heat for the cabin or do you just hope the sun comes out to warm the cabin up?
Have Fun out there and Safe Sailing Jesse.
Your Friend Marion
From Oklahoma City, Ok(USA)
I think i know that dolphin! Met em in a storm on the Atlantic!! I am just loving following your adventure. I reckon theres a couple of million of us now gearing up to go round Cape Horn with u in our armchairs. Good on ya Jess....
Capt'n Kelly
Happy New Year
For the person questioning Franklin's mention of "dragging a warp" (length or loop of line). This is one option in a bag of what you might call last ditch efforts to cope with an extreme situation.
IF the seas were large enough (and close enough to one another) AND the wind strong enough to drive EPL too fast down the face of a follwiing sea, the boat has the potential to plow the bow into the back of the next sea. Such a scenario could potentially "pitchpole" the boat,ie. the bow is held in the back of one swell while inertia forces the stern "ass over tea kettle"....NOT a good idea.
EPL would likely be running under bare poles (no sails at all) to have to come such a setting.
This is not something to muse on..nor am I suggesting that Jessica will face such a mix of sea and wind. I only address the question that waas posed...it is not unheard of as a survival technique in extremely heavy weather.
As it is she seems to be breezing along, handling her recent gale with great Aussie aplomb.
Steve in California
Hi Jess,
Well done with your first bit of rough weather, it sounded like you handled it well and did not let the situation get the better of you!
Happy New year to you and to your shore based team! I have just got home from the Woodford Folk festival and I can't wait until next year when I am sure they will invite you over to tell some tales from the high seas!
Cheers, Leeroy from BNE
I won't harp on too much, just want to wish you a very happy New Year and glad to hear you made it through your 1st decent storm.
Stay Safe
Mick
I just want to add my name as a message of support for what Jessica is doing. Like many others, I was initially skeptical and admit to being influenced by the press at the time of the collision with the ship. But have come to change my view. I was impressed initially that she was not deterred from her goal by the media reports or the collision itself, and to now see that she has travelled over 8000 miles is astonishing for anyone, let alone someone so young. I don’t know if she sees all these messages, but hopefully she will feel comforted to know that there are people in Australia like me (a 61 year old retiree) who admire her courage and believe in people testing life’s limits.
John Lindsay
Happy New Year Jess and happy sailing! I love reading your blog and keeping up to date with your adventures.
Safe travels from the very dry Alice Springs
Graeme
Hi Jess, Happy New Year, and a safe voyage no matter what the sea gods throw at you! I've been thinking about that dolphin, and perhaps he is also on a solo run, and desired an escort to pass through the storm.
Continually amazed by your adventure!
Pipefish, California Usa
Happy New Year and above all, stay save and spirited in your journey.
All the best
Holger, Bea, glauco, Stella and Mambo
Happy new year, Jessica! This is our first comment on here. My two children and I just discovered your blog a few days ago, and ever since my little 3 y/o girl Samira has wanted to get on to see your videos and photos (you and your pink boat have won her heart!)
Yesterday she wanted to take a shower and pour a little bucket of water over her head just like you did in one video. :D
Happy new year 2010, and thank you so much for sharing your adventure with us. Our prayers are with you for a safe voyage.
Warm regards,
Ana, Justin (5) and Samira (3) in Sydney, Australia
Hi Jess!!!!!!!!
Hope you have happy and safe new year .Have been watching and reading youre progress since day one . May St Brendan the patron saint of sailers and navigators
watch over you
Stan
Warrnambool
Aust.
Ahoy! Captain Jesse the Explorer!
In Texas it's 8:50pm, New Year's Eve, and I am hoping all is well with you. A very Happy New Year! to you Captain Jesse. The world loves you.
That line "downright spectacular and facinating to watch"- you really are incredible- how about "downright scary!"
Sail on Courageous One, and remember you are in the prayers of thousands around the world.
Ben from Texas
the moon you were looking at was a blue moon, so extra special. :) happy new year and happy new decade :D all the best in 2010. you'll make history this year ;)
Happy New Year Jessica. You are doing well out there and pray you stay safe for the remainder of your trip. Your are an inspiration to us Aussies. Well done.
Hi Jessica
I am another silent follower who has been with you since you left the Gold Coast on your shake down cruise.
Congratulations on your trip so far … it has stirred up the adventurous spirit in so many of us and I love reading all the bloggers' comments. What a lot of wonderful people in the world … and the world is following you! You are a STAR! (Santa even brought my hubby six sailing adventure books for Christmas!) We are all living this adventure with you and being inspired by you!
I would like to wish you a VERY HAPPY and SAFE NEW YEAR. May it see you successfully fulfilling your dream in reaching Sydney and realizing your goal.
Go Girl!
Fay from the Gold Coast
Happy 2010 Jesse!
Well we've all survived your first storm LOL. I think we were all waiting for that to be out of the way.
Amazing how the dolphin stayed with you, a wonderful sign that all would be well. xx
Hi Jess.
With a sky full of stars like that who needs fireworks? And you are right about how spatacular the sea can be like that. It defy's words and pictures to discribe it. You have to experience it. Looks like you, Ella, Parker, and the rest of your "crew" made it through just fime. Those dolphins are something else aren't they? I've always thought of them as a sailor's best friend.
Stay Safe
I actually didn't think U would last this long. I followed Zac, Pearlman, and now you. You sound confident! You are maturing and I can sense it with each day at sea. Way to go! Have a spectacular day! All the best in '10. Wear your harness. You made me a convert. You're making your folks doubly proud!
Happy New Year Jessie! I've been following you since the beginning.
Good luck.
Kevin
Cabot, AR, USA
Hi Capt'n Jessica,
Have a Safe and Fantastic New Year!
Your first gale winds and a Dolphin pops in and takes on those five meter waves along side EPL, while keeping an eye out for one another is pretty neat for six hours!
Reminds me of the old show Flipper.
Keep warm, eat well and Safety First. Happy New Year!
Charlene and Bob
Happy New Year from the Gale family in Grand Junction, Colorado! Welcome to 2010!
Happy new year jess!!!! Melbourne was incredibly hot even after midnight and the storms we had produced some spectacular lightning displays and torrential rain and to top it off we a great firework show as well.I would imagine slightly different weather conditions as to what you have been experiencing. What would you have been doing if still back at home on new years eve? Well this NYE will be different for you that's for sure but however you celebrate jess take lots of care!!!!!!!!!!
Hi Jess,
I don't think there was anybody among your extended family who thought that when you met your first gale that you would not know how to acquit yourself well. This didn't stop 400+ bloggers worrying about you. I guess that's our job.
You describe the sea well - pretty damn scary! I can't even imagine 44 knots and 5m seas.
Congratulations on your success as a seaman/person/woman whatever. Your gender had nothing to do with anything. You're a bloody good sailor.
Happy New Year to you, my wonderful friend.
Ian from Brisbane
Happy New Year Jessica! I still have 2 hours to wait. Stay safe and keep up the great work! DJ in Iowa, U.S.A.
"Happy New Year Jessica"
You truly are very inspirational in
following your dreams and someone to
look up to.I admire your courage as
you as you head closer and closer
to Cape Horn.
"All the best for 2010"
Stay safe and fun sailing:)
Cheers
Leanne, Perth Australia
Hi Jesse,
Great blog. Thank you. You have to know that someone sent that dolphin out to make sure that you were safe and to report back that you got through the first big winds like the seasoned sailor that you are.
Happy New Year. We are now officially in the Year of Jessica Watson. The streamers are already going up to celebrate your amazing adventure.
Stay safe. Keep strong. Find the fair winds home.
June and Richard Thorn
My birthday was on the 31st of December! I cant believe its 2010 already its amazing! Keep strong Jess your doing fantastic!
Love Rosie
Hi Jesse,
Saw your blog when i got home this morning and got caught up on reading everyones well wishes i forgot to comment myself.LOL
So well done young lady, not just on your achievments in the last few days but for all your achievments over the last few months.
Rosie and I have been following you since you set sail from Mooloolaba way back in September. Your blogs have become very addictive, like a good book that you can't put down. Only thing is your forced to wait for each chapter to unfold.
I must admit reading the blogs of my fellow blogger family members has been an adventure in it self. Thier messages of support, the one liners ,poems and pictures have been fantastic and i have just as much fun plowing through the hundreds of blogs as i do reading your adventure.
Well enough from me, stay safe and keep sharing your journey with us.
Tim and Rosie
Caboolture
Happy New Year Jessica,
Hope this year will bring you lots of adventure.
Sonja
Cape Town
South Africa
Dear Jesse. I wish you a Safe, Happy,and Succesful New Year.Im glad to see so many people following your blog .
I cant imagine you are able to read them all . I want to be there anyway. Your last blog was amazing as all the others .Im sure the dolphin was there for you.So good to read.
Thinking of you every day , You go Beautiful Girl. Take care ,
Love from Nana Annie XOXO.
Happy New Year Jessica. Success and happiness in the coming year.
To Tony at Mt Martha just a stones throw away from me here in Dandenong...Tony Tony Tony, what an excellent Job you have done, Michael and Sam have expressed it all, there is not much more I can add...!!
Well done, Jessica will be impressed to see the last 2 years compressed into long blog....I've just read it all out to me mum, and like Sam I felt my voice giving way at few points....oh boy!
In fact there were one or two things I didn't know...thanks Tony that was a really cool thing to do.
hopefully everybody will read it!
Cheers guys
Clint - Dandenong West
Happy happy New Year Jess, you can celebrate it twice. How lovely to have a dolphin accompany you through the tough times. Good news on Sydney TV last night came from a Psychic predicting events for 2010 - included that Jessica Watson would successfully complete her circumnavigation! I was very happy to hear that. Happy New Year to all your followers around the world too.
Sydney, Australia
Partial Lunar Eclipse and Blue Moon New Year's Eve
http://www.space.com/spacewatch/091228-partial-lunar-eclipse.html
I hope you can get a pic for us!
Happy New Year gorgeous Jesse!
Glad the dolphin stayed by your side...how cool!
Lissy
Gold Coast
Jessica,
You won’t believe this, Jess, but I was just reading a young dolphin’s blog. That dolphin wrote “But the most amazing thing of all was the girl in the sailboat sailed along next to me for over 6 hours while the wind was the strongest, just as if she was keeping an eye out for me! Every time I’d glance in the porthole I’d get another little flash of her smile as if she was reassuring me that she was still there. I haven’t seen a girl in a sailboat for weeks, so to have one see me through the gale was something special and very comforting!”
So not only are you a hero to all of us but you are also a hero to your new dolphin friend. You have even more fans than you realize.
Have fun, stay safe and happy sailing.
From Seattle, WA, USA
SaltyDog
01-01-10 @ 00:43
Hi Jessica,
Happy New Year young lady, I'm very happy that '09 has ended on a high note for you. I hope it will carry on into 2010 in the same manner.
May God bless you and watch over you and keep you safe in the palm of his hand. I truly believe you are a blessed child, and there are great things in store for you.
Take care of yourself and them scallywags, where would we be without them. LOL.....
Don’t forget to eat well, stay warm, and get as much rest as you can,rough times ahead. Looking forward to your next post, and some pics if possible.
Loads of love and hugs, your faithful fan and follower.
May God be with you and watch over you and may the angels keep your sails full, and I will keep you in my prayers.
Michael (74) from Kingwood, WV
WOW Happy New year Miss Jesse Not many people can say they spent that time were you are now! but we have all seen fireworks(well most anyway) I am so proud of you Jesse like you would not believe.
Ka kite ano
From the US Virgin Islands....Happy New Year, Jesse. The best to you always. We love you!!!!!!
Happy New Year 2010! No storm can stop you from your sailing which you encountered on the 3oth Dec. You're the bravest girl in the world and the source of inspiration to millions of teenagers. Good luck.
http://jummobisworld.blogspot.com
Jessica,
I really enjoy your posts! Thank you for the very valuable time you are taking to post them! You write wonderfully! Sounds like you clearly have Neptune, intelligence, attitude, dolphin, family, and friends on your side and you will succeed!
Cap Jeff
S/V Stella Blue
Seattle
versixisMay your 2010 be healthy, safe and spectacular Jesse.
Your descriptive posts continue to keep us by your side in spirit and the dolphin episode gave me a few spine tingles. May the good omens remain throughout your journey.
Stay safe and warm.
Cheers from the Old Bloke.
I would like to wish all my follow bloggers a wonderful and happy New Year full of everything you wish for yourselves.
I love all your encourageing comments for Jesse, it is simply a reflection of her own qualities that we are responding to. Jesse brings out the best in people.
All the very best,
Bluefin, Buderim, Queensland.
Happy New Year Jessica, you are doing just fine :)
It is still one hour and 25 minutes away from the new year in California. Happy New Year to you something like 16 hours ago.
2010 is YOUR YEAR! We will all watch with joy on your success this New Year... Have a great celebration out there for all of us.
Still in our prayers - The Harris Family, Salt Lake City, UT
hi jess,
you've been going through pretty good progress over the last couple of days. Oh i nearlly forgot, HAPPY NEW YEAR.
From matt k
I believe that right now it is midnight and new year where you are, at about longtude 105 and time zome UTC-7. (same as US MST, 8:00 CET and 18:00 AEDT)
Happy New Year Jesse!!!
Happy newyear! Save travels!
Happy New Year Jessisa.
How wonderful to have a Dolphin close ranks with you during the storm.
Mac.
Hi Captain Watson;
Thank you for for sharing your adventure with me and the world. I just know you will have a great New Year. All the best from Alfred
Vancouver, Canada
Happy New Year! Thank you for taking out '09 with success and encouragment and bringing in '10 with anticipation and excitement. You'll finish your adventure this year. I look forward to each day for you. Fair winds and following seas,
Tom, Missouri, USA
Hi Jess
People all over the world are praying for you. Having a dolphin comfort you and keep you company during a gale is a God kind of thing.
When you get back home we'll have a fireworks display just for you.
Happy New Year Jess , Safe Sailing
We track your blog daily
Mitchell Qld
Hi Jessica
Have a HAPPY NEW YEAR on your time tomorrow Jesse.
Know need to be sorry for not doing any updates, I think the condition you were sailing in, doing an update is not on top of the list of things to do.
I would like to see how many people could type out a blog in 44 knots of wind, boat going up down over 5 metres and surfing down 5 metre waves, but the ride would be lots of fun and by the sound of things, you were enjoying yourself.
I have done some marine rescues in 45 knots of wind and in the dark, I know what it's like, so I take my hat of to you, and all this by yourself. Not quite by yourself, you had Mr/Mrs dolphin for companion, how good was that.
So with a little bit of luck, you will have clear skies for a while, but down in the 50's not for long.
How good is Parker, best deck hand you will ever find, no complaints, doesn't need to sleep and keeps on keeping on, but won't do the dishes though.
I'm sure you had far more excitment and beauty out there than any fireworks could do for you Jesse, so keep having fun and most of all keep safe.
Cheers George Simmons
Lots of love from Exmouth WA Australia
Hi Jessica
My grandson Caleb (7) and I check your "track the voyage" every few days. We count the little pink yacht icons as they move across the map...its fun.
Caleb is learning about the places/areas you are sailing past/thru.
He is away at his other nanas for NY but he will
be so excited that I have sent you a message from us.
Happy New Year for Twenty/ten
Judy & Caleb
Happy New Year Jesse, looks like even the dolphins love you, maybe they like the color pink. The dolphin probably felt you needed some companionship I guess, hung around just in case you needed an expert.
Sounds to me you got nerves of steel girl, 44kts would be enough to make my knuckles white and teeth chatter for sure. You have what it takes, can imagine you're the type of captain who will stay calm in an emergency.
I wish you fast but safe seas for the rest of your journey, looking forward to seeing you come through the heads in a few months.
All the best.
Russ from Bowen
Happy new year. Glad you're finally seeing some more action. Hope it's not too nerve-racking. Enjoy ringing in 2010.
1st morning of 2010 in Paris...
Happy New Year to all, on board of EPL and ashore.
Let Captain Jesse lead us the way into a wonderful and memorable year. I think the world needs it.
Thank you for your albatrossy companion's video, Captain! What lengthy wings he has... and a very impressive flight.
@Tony L: Great job! It leaves me speechless to see how many steps Jessica did climb up in such a short time. No wonder she rocks: she's a rocket!
First milestone this year: The Cape Horn. Quite a big stone, indeed. But we are fully confident... just waiting to celebrate the rounding! Go, Wondergirl, Go!
I am sure the dolphin kept you company because he/she knew some company was needed. They can read your mind!!!
aroha
dave
Aotearoa-NZ
On the more detailed tracking maps, can we have the dolphins included as well ?
mationTony L, jan 1, 8:07am.
That was a great summary of Jesse' progress from its early beginings to where she is now. I hope you post another as she nears the completion of this magnificent journey..sort of a tribute perhaps. I for one will definitely look forward to that.
Actually, it brings to mind while reading thru her blogs, an instant where she tried very hard to keep a straight face as dedicated Dad (Roger) stripping down
youngestdound.com frog marched to the skip with the toilet held at arms lemgth"
...or after setting out the carefully planned list of jobs for the day came back later to find it brutally vandalised with
"completely absurd jobs such as smoko, tea breaks, union meetings bonding sessions....", had been secretly added between the lines.
Some of the lighter moments. All of her blogs are a pleasure to read.
Thanks a lot.
Ben (Qld)
Happy New Year Jess! Loved your dolphin tale! Hope you like the poem....
Guardian Dolphin
Guardian dolphin
Rider of the waves
Southern Gale’s special
Introductory gift!
How did you find me?
Why did you stay with me?
Your presence
Was such a comfort!
Guardian dolphin
Rider of the waves
Southern Gale’s very special
Introductory gift…
I thank you!
Jill (Newcastle)
The strongest girl I know!
Funny in the middle of the ocean shows how strong you are.
We are all behind you, you WILL make it.
Happy New Year Jessica, I am so pleased to read your account of the storm and your performance. If you read back through my blogs you will see that when you started your trip that I said neptune will be keeping an eye on you and will always reward courage, but never stupity and you are intelligent and couragious, maybe the dolphin was reporting in..!! lol
Stay safe little one and I look forward to more updates on your adventures.
Best wishes
John and Susan Webb
Catamaran "Playground"
Brisbane Australia
Happy New Year to the gutsiest 16 year old Aussie ever!
You've attitude is nothing less than remarkable.
Best wishes for 2010 and the remainder of your voyage.
Chris Akenfelds
Brisbane QLD
Happy new year Jess!
Hallo Jessica,
your a true inspiration!!! your stamina , determination and adventurous spirit....
wow!! I think I will go to sydney to see you come in!!!
I enjoy your blogs, I can't imagine how your mother is feeling.
Safe sailing.....
Happy New Year, Jessica! How wonderful that you rang in the new year with a dolphin. Happy Ella's Pink Lady is handling the gales so well. Keep having a great time. Jen in Heverlee, Belgium
Happy late 2010,
I just want to say good job and good luck.
Best wishes,
Tyler
Hi Jessica
Big seas, scary? I have only been at sea once in gale, that was the english channel and there were so many sick people on the Ferry I sneaked up on deck which i was not supposed to do and wedged myself into a corner of railing on the upper deck and watched the waves just rolling and crossing each other and it didn't look that bad really apart from how badly the Ferry was being knocked aound. Then for about 4 or 5 seconds I saw a sailboat through a gap in the mountains of waves (I guess it was about the size of yours or a little bigger), it was climbing up the side of a wave and had to have been at 40 degrees tilt and the wave was at least 3 times as high as the boat was long. The the wave just fell away from umder the boat and rose my side of the boat and the boat vanished (down the other side of the wave)? That was 40 years ago and i can still the boat with a red and green paint job. If I could paint I would paint that scene.
Anyway the point was the boat just looked so tiny and i think of you out there with the weather getting worse and remember that boat and have small sense of how scary it could be.
Keep safe and dry and keep those safty lines on
Donald
Adelaide
Congratulations Jessica!! A huge achievement for anyone, let alone someone of your age. Go girl!!
Carol Russell Island QLD
Hey Jess, you're one tough cookie and you are an inspiration to all us Aussie's back home. Keep sailing and enjoying :)
Happy 2010 : 3 ,new to this blog
Congratulations Jess, knew you could do it, glad you didn't listen to the sceptics. I support anyone who follows their dream.
Following your progress with great interest.
Cheers
Maureen
Post a Comment