Saturday, January 2, 2010

Calm Before The Storm

It's been calm and sunny again today. I spent the morning doing jobs on deck and soaking in the lovely sunshine. Talk about a treat to have such lovely conditions!

I end-for-ended the headsail sheets, runners and windvane lines (as they were all showing signs of chafe), re-lashed the spinnaker poles, scrubbed at a few rust stains and re-stowed all my rubbish in the aft locker.

But it doesn't look like the calm is going to last though, with the wind forecast to really start coming up again tomorrow. Its sounds like this one is going to be pretty nasty, so this is probably the last time you'll hear from me for a few days. But please don't worry as Ella's Pink Lady and I are completely ready for it!

The wind is not expected to be too much stronger than last time, but it is blowing straight up from Antarctica, so it is expected to be very cold. The little diesel heater will probably cop a bit of a workout!

My action plan for this one is really very simple; stay calm and confident. If I can't manage that, then I will fake it and just pretend to be!

I'm off to get some sleep while I can.

Jesse

498 comments:

«Oldest   ‹Older   401 – 498 of 498
Anonymous said...

Hi Shore Team,
Thanks for the update. How proud we are all of Jesse.
She will surely need a rest after the Horn.
Go Jesse,
Joy
Ballarat.

Georgia Guy said...

To RichieParis,

You've outdone yourself with the Neptune interview.

Loved it !

Georgia Guy
USA

Anonymous said...

Goodday Jess

So touched by your mental effort and prep. I wish you well for the challenges ahead and will be praying for you for a safe rounding of the cape as I will be away for a while.

Cheers.

TLC< Borneo

CazaofMelb said...

Hi Jesse, I've been watching your progress and reading your blog religiously! You're doing so well. Good luck for the next few days of rough weather - we have no doubt that you'll come through with flying colours (pink - of course!!). Keep Safe!

Anonymous said...

God's speed Jess !

cheers

Denis
Canberra.

Mike Kay Avon Indiana USA said...

To RichieParis,

SMILE WINK WINK SMILE
SMILE SMILE
SMILE N SMILE
SMILE SMILE
SMILE SMILE
SMILE SMILE
SMILESMILESMILESMILE
SMILESMILESMILESMI

I probably left the artwork to Sally but after the smile you put on my face I had to try something. That was great!!!!!!! thanks, Mike

hezakiah299 said...

01-03-10 @ 19:19
Hi Jessica,
Your Shore Crew came through with an up-date on your conditions.
I thank you S/C.
30k(34mph) wind and a 4m(13ft) swell @ 7c(44.6F) degrees doesn’t sound to great but the sleet, rain and hail must be wicked. I hope most (if not all) of your time is spent inside your little adobe. God Bless that diesel heater. (Be careful of the fumes)
Glad to hear that you’re eating well, and hopefully drinking a good bit. Water that is!!!!!
Tuesday P/W shows a cell bouncing off the coast and then going into Wednesday rolling around the Cape with the cell increasing in power, and almost in the center of the channel. Nothing you can’t handle, should you encounter this cell.
Could be some of that fun time you’ve been looking for. Minus the sleet, rain and hail of course.
Have you got them scallywags working???? LOL…….
Keep up the good work, everyone’s praying for you, and wishing you good luck.
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

Anonymous said...

Hi Jessica,
Good luck for the next few days but it sounds like you are up to it and well prepared to tackle it.
Cheers
Paul, Lake Macquarie, NSW

odette carty said...

Happy safe sailing

Anonymous said...

as a sailor myself aboard a rafiki 37 i am inspired and proud by your accomplishments thus far...reef down,rest as often as possible..av

marief said...

hey Jess I have been reading your blogs each day. Good luck with the next challenge - you will rise to it the way you have until now.

Clint Jeffrey - VK3CSJ said...

I am Forced to say something...

Richie, Richie, Richie - such a Richie!

You have out done yourself...

That was "Bloody" Fantastic!

I've just read out loud all of "Chapter 3" to me mum, and we laughed very muchly!

Good onya mate!

I can just imagine Chapter 3 being read out in the "Wat-Son" family as I type!....

Looking forward to Ch-4....

Cheers

Clint - Dandy/Melb

Hope said...

Hi Jessica :-)

My daughter lauren (7) & I have just started following you. We are amazed at what you are doing & you have really encouraged us to go for our dreams.....thanks!!
We will be praying for you!!
Lauren & lisa xxx

samurai said...

Hi everyone, I hope you're all well. Thanks Andrew for updating us on Jessica's progress. Here's a telepathetic ?? pat on the back to you from me :-))

While we're all waiting with bated breath to hear from Jessica again, here's a quick riddle for you, just for fun. An oldie but a goodie so sorry if you've heard it before.

"Two Aussies drinking in a pub. One is the father of the other one's son. What are they in relation to each other?"

Smiles to you all...Sam

Anonymous said...

All of us should pay it forward but not with the expectation of seeing a reward, that is not why we do it.

Pay if forward because it is the right thing to do, reward or not.

If you follow your heart, if you listen to your gut, and if you extend your hand to help another, not for any agenda, but for the sake of humanity, you are going to find the truth!

Erin Brockovich!

Jesse!

Erin Brockovich worked very hard to get where she is now and she is moving Mountains for the sake of humanity!

You have hardly warmed up yet as you see through the mountains you’re moving the world!

Please be safer, be stronger!

We’re with you all the way!

GO JESSE! GO!

Billy!

sails said...

Today's Inspirational Quote:

"The best way to escape from a problem is to solve it."

-- Alan Saporta

Anonymous said...

Hi to Jesse's family & land support team,

thanks so much for the update in Latest News. Much appreciated. Good to know that Jesse is weathering the storm, and keeping warm and eating well to keep her energy levels up.

Keep safe and warm Jesse, we are all thinking of you and you're in our prayers.

God Bless

Wendy
Armidale NSW

Sally said...

Hi Jesse

Long time no speak. I have been away visiting family for Christmas Holidays. Time to catch up on all of your news....

Go girl! You can do it! You have all your earth bound support crew cheering you on and sending you our warm thoughts. In the hope that the thoughts will keep the chill away. Keep the layers on Jess, they will hopefully keep you warm. No doubt you will be extremely busy tackling the weather - just remember to eat!

Had a look through all your photo's, they look great. It's lovely to see that you have had additional company along the way, especially the Dolphin. What a gorgeous story - you were keeping 'eachother' company! They are truely beautiful creatures.

Just spent X-mas hols up north on the Gold Coast. It rained every day - still warm though. It was lovely to see the rain,great for the water supplies and also the gardens.

Take care and stay safe Jess - thinking about you whilst you are battling those high seas.

"Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did. So throw off the bowlines, Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream."
Mark Twain


'People become really quite remarkable when they start thinking that they can do things. When they believe in themselves they have the first secret of success.'
Norman Vincent Peale

Sally In Sydney

stevejo said...

Hey Jessica

Stay strong and let your instincts take over

k878 said...

Hi Jess,

You will be fine, thats what all the trainings for!!! We will all be thinking about you!

Safe Sailing,
Kate & family, Vic, Aus

Robert and Tinker from Cognac said...

Jes,
You are doing a great job !
Faking it works !
I am going to be doing a lot of it myself as I am getting ready to go on a long voyage with my partner Robert this March. Love the way you keep in touch.Do you use HF or satelite phone?Would love to do it for my family and family of friends
Stay warm

Amazedbyou said...

Hi Jesse,

Thought I would just say gidday. So Gidday. Thinking of you, sending positive vibe your way. Hail...yuk. Hope it was not big hail. Sleet....brrrr, hot chocolate is a wonderful thing.

Have you ever wondered how they measured hail stones before golf balls were invented?

Anyway, you have fun and gets heaps of rest when you can. Tis rainy here, just drizzle, although the grass and garden are thankful. I can hear the grass growing and my mower has pulled a cord. By the way they spotted a sharky as Alexendra Headlands beach the other day. Just a bit of your local news for ya. Take care. Cheers.

Howard Family Camas Wa. USA said...

Hi Jessica

Keep Warm eat good and plenty of water. Happy New Year ,stay safe, we are praying for you.

Good sailing young Lady

Jan, Wgtn NZ said...

You go girl! You are an amazing young lady and I doubt for one minute that your common sense and spectacular sailing ability will elude you just because the conditions rough up. You might be scared at times but I'll bet the overall thrill of it all will win out in the end.

You take care of Ella and she'll take care of you.

Looking forward to hearing all about it in your next post.

Jan (holidaying in sunny Taupo, NZ)

Anonymous said...

Hey Jess!
Thinking of you and praying for you. I love that thought from Proverbs 30:4 - it's God that "holds the wind in His fists". God, Love is RIGHT THERE WITH YOU!!

Love ya heaps
Jodie

Anonymous said...

Hey Jessica,
My kids and i are following your progress and wish you all the very best. Keep up the good work and show the world how to live your dreams!
Stay strong, stay safe
The Adams Family, xx
Moffat Beach

Richard Frankhuizen said...

Jessica,
I would love ot hear about your daily chores, technical challenges, sea conditions, distance made good and all the sailing and living stuff. In anycase, good on you for taking on such a challenge. Wishing you all the best.

Clint Jeffrey - VK3CSJ said...

Hey Sam..."Telepathic" I think you were trying to say...yeah?

Trust you!

Cya

Clint....;))

hezakiah299 said...

01-03-10 @ 23:32
Hi Jessica,
Hoping to give you some more moral support, while you’re in the middle of another challenge. I hope things are going well for you and the crew, keep her straight and true. You’re going to do ok.
I just wanted to mention that I came across a post that your Granny W. had sent to Dilip wishing him all the best of luck and a Happy New Year. I’m sure he’ll appreciate as much as your phone call. It was a very nice gesture and very supportive, I can see where you get some of your caring and unselfish ways. It just runs in the family.

RichieParis: “The Legend of Jessica Watson” is great, keep it going.

Amazedbyou: What are ‘The Moccas”??????

Well Jessica, continue on doing a great job and I hope you’ve gotten past the sleet and hail by now. That stings just thinking about it.
I’m really looking forward to your next post, (whenever you get a chance) I’ll bet it will be full of excitement, as only you can portray in such a casual manner. LOL…..
Always thinking of you and always proud of you.
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

Jo said...

Hi Jesse, just wanted to touch base again as I've posted a couple of times since New Years but I haven't seen them on here. Never mind, I'll keep writing and checking your site cos I love it when you have the chance to write and put up some pictures or a video. The weather is dull and overcast in Sydney as it has been for the last few days...I hope it's better where you are. As you approach the Horn as always, take care 'til next time.
Jo
Sydney

Sue (this n that) said...

Good to read the latest update from the land crew - good going Jesse.
Thanks also for those fantastic blogs and pics from you about the dolphins and albatrosses.
Your thorough preparations are paying off now that you're experiencing storms and cooler weather.
Well done and all the best.

Lori said...

Hi everyone!

Thanks ground crew for the update, she's is going well, you must be so pleased and proud as punch, just as we are.

Richie, that was hysterical, thank you.

Mike, bless your little cotton socks, BUT for the life of me I couldn't work out your art work - it sometimes takes awhile with Sally's as well, then the penny drops, but please help me out with yours - please don't be offended..

Thanks for the interesting blogs everyone, you really make my day(s).

Keep going Jesse, we are right behind you.......x

-Lori, Brisbane

maxine maroochydore said...

Hi Jesse, yes your a a star, we are thinking of you especially now, keep safe, keep warm, keep eating, and keep smiling Maxine and Colin Maroochydore

Anonymous said...

...hi jess! we know you've got the best equipment and a solid boat - plus all of us wishing you a smooth sail!

-aviv
castro calley, ca, usa

Anonymous said...

Hi Jessica,

Keep safe and your wits about you as you close in on the southern ocean. I read your blog each day from my work computer and wonder why a girl half my age can take on a challenge that leaves me in awe? Your an inspiration to more people than you'd ever imagine.

Wishing you a safe passage!

Blackwater
Central Queensland.

Anonymous said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
yarnek said...

I'd like to thank the crew back home for keeping us up to date (8:50pm Jan 3rd) during Jesse's second big trial. Always reassuring to kept in the loop when Jesse is too busy to post.
Cheers,
The Old Bloke

Mike Kay Avon Indiana USA said...

Sam, Husband and Wife? Oh well I give up? RichieParis I am still laughing and smiling...... I knew I should have left the artwork up to Sally...... I love you all and I am going to miss you. Mike

Anonymous said...

Peace be with you Jess!

adolbah said...

we are in Australia, good wind

Peter Gold Coast said...

Hi Jesse

The only good thing about a southerly of the pole is that you will be sailing on a reach.

Don't worry, there are enough of us on dry land doing that for you

I am pushing with all my might for yo

Godspeed little one

Peter

Anonymous said...

Hi Jesse

The only good thing about a southerly of the pole is that you will be sailing on a reach.

Don't worry, there are enough of us on dry land doing that for you

I am pushing with all my might for you

Godspeed little one

Peter

Auzziemom said...

How is Jessica going? Sitting on the edge of my chair waiting for an update. Jessica's adventure has been great for our kids saying their prayers every night, thanks Jess. We are sending love and support. Stay safe sweetie.

Anonymous said...

HI FROM ROMY TO ALL THE KIDS FOLLOWING JESSE :)

JUST A FEW FACTS ABOUT SEA CREATURES WHICH YOU MIGHT LIKE.....

Nearly all of the world's water is in the oceans.Just a little part of it is in the lakes and rivers.

The Sooty Tern bird can stay in the air for 3 to 10 years

Barnacles are shellfish which stick themselves onto ships's hulls or Grey Whales and other
big sea creatures.

The fastest bird that swims is the Gentoo Penguin. It can swim at 24 km per hour.

The bird that flew 22,530km from Russia to Australia was an Arctic Tern

Leopard seals sing in their sleep and live in the Antarctic.They chirp and whistle when they sleep.
Just like my Grandpa!!!HaHa


I HAVE BEEN READING...100 Facts on Oceans and The Big Book of Knowledge
HOPE YOU LIKE THIS.MORE LATER

SEE YOU LATER ALLIGATOR
GO JESSE GO :)
ROMY(8)

Jonathan Castelino said...

Hi Jess,

By now you are probably on the other side of the weather and hopefully getting some shuteye. Rest well, eat well and stay warm !

Andrew has been great providing us an update - thanks Andrew !

Hi Joy from Ballarat, so far there are five of us starting to toss around some ideas and plans. The more the merrier ! Please hit the link above this entry and use the email link to send me a message, if you would like to and we'll take it from there.

Cheers
Jonathan
Melbourne

Bruce Watt said...

Hi Jess

I read somewhere to-day that a scientist has proved through research that outside humas dolphins are the next most intelligent animal on earth. Their method of sonic communication is the best of all animals/mammals. Lets hope some are closeby helping to guide you around the Cape as battle this current storm. Go Jess.

Unknown said...

Hi Samurai,

I've worked out the answer to your puzzle but will not reveal it since that may spoil it for others. A nice little puzzle indeed.

Thanks to the shore team for keeping us aware. We're all praying for Jessica as she faces her challenges.

Ian from Brisbane

Ellen T/Sth Aus said...

Praying for a safe exhilarating journey, 'good' winds & many more beautiful views of sunny days, starry nights!

Really liked the pic of the moon & it's path on the ocean that u took.

You are one precious & courageous girl!

Jan said...

Sending positive thoughts and all good wishes as you go through a rough patch..... we're all thinking of you!
Jan - Melbourne

Mary said...

It wouldn't be an around the world sailing trip if there wasn't some exciting times hey Jess. I bet you will handle it like any old seaman, just do what you know best. Take good care and I look forward to your next update. regards
Mary

Wood Family - Sydney said...

Hi Jess, Happy New Year - Keep Safe and congratulations on your journey so far.

Thinking of You

thecat'smother said...

Hi Jesse,

Best wishes for the windy conditions, I'm sure, along with all the other bloggers, that you will do yourself very proud.

I look forward to reading about it, when u make it out the other side of the wind.

J

stilgoin said...

keep going Jesse your looking good I admire your individualism immensley

Anonymous said...

Hello Jessica
Praying yourself and Captain Dhonde come out of this bad weather soon and God Speed you on your way.
You are a Brave Girl Jessica and we admire your Skill and Strength and we are sure you will get through all this in Flying Colors.

You and Captain Dhonde sailign Solo around the world are our Role Model.

Gleeson
Brisbane
Queensland

Susan said...

With the reputation of Cape Horn, it's good to hear there are others others close by! I just read about Mr Bankart and "seven sailing enthusiasts" down your way. And with Dilip getting closer too, I hope your claustrophobia meter doesn't go off the charts!
Sounds like it will be fun!

http://www.perthnow.com.au/news/national/lone-sailor-jessica-watson-gets-visitors-from-home/story-e6frg15u-1225815819683

I hope you're staying toasty warm, and as rested as possible. Dealing with a few moderate storms before anything bigger is a good thing, and so considerate of the ocean! As Richie Paris says, Neptune must've loved that chocolate! ... especially when you get to bask in the sun in between storms and rest up...can't get any better than that!

(Did you write that interview Richie? Just brilliant!)

Jesse, I hope you feel the presence of the divine all around you every day.

Susan in Oregon

(I'm having trouble posting this time for some reason..?)

Angus (bris) said...

Hey Jesse,
just herd you are going through a storm and things are getting a bit cold.
Hang in there Jess, we know you can do it.
Will catch up a bit later. I'm back at work now and things are pretty hectic. Take care.
Fair winds and following seas.
Angus.

Amazedbyou said...

Hi there Samurai,

Ba ha ha ha. Don't you mean telepathic, not tele-pathetic !! You kill me.

And as far as your quiz goes... ... One is the father of the other ones son, makes them...father and son. Grandfather and son. Got nothin'. How many were in the bar...??

Unknown said...

hi jessica, this is a special message from your great great aunt Ida who your dad rodger knows. She lives in a place called Tauranga New Zealand , she will be turning 89 this month This message is sent by her daughter marcia and family

Unknown said...

go jess go your life will never be the same for the best , the knowlege you can pass on will be hard to match. The WALSH family Tauranga New Zealand

Amazedbyou said...

RichieParis, you are a legend. Interview with God Neptune is a must read !!

Anonymous said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Anonymous said...

It's probably going to get veeery interesting from here-on. You are very well prepared for any eventuality, so just enjoy the adventure. Blogging is the least of your worries I would think. Please stay sharp & smart! Blog when it's convenient. Wish I was doing it too, except I don't know if I'd have the guts.
Larry B.

Sonja said...

Hi Jessica,

Hope you are still safe and to hear from you again. I can't imagine what it must be like to be in the middle of the ocean with nothing but water around you. You are a very brave girl. Hope that God will be with you and keep you safe.

Sonja de Wet
Cape Town South AFrica

The McGraths said...

For RichieParis,

Richie Richie Richie, you are too funny, we love this story so you have to keep it running till Jesse is home.

By the way if you and your family could make your way to Australia we would be happy for you to stay with us so you could be part of the welcome party. Your name is certainly included on our flag.

The McGraths, Nowra NSW

workerbev said...

Hi Jessica (and the blog family) Beverly here in Tassie. Just finished reading the newest blogs.

RichieParis - that was awesome!!!

Michael(74) - there you are, steady as a rock - thank you!

Romy(8) - well, young person, all your facts - they were amazing. I didn't know most of them. Thanks, see you can teach an "old" dog new tricks! LOL

I see Cdr Donde finally updated his blog. He sure is having problems. Definitely needs our prayers. I'm concerned about his going around the Cape with bolts shearing and motors "lashed" up. But he used WD40 so all is just right.

It is such a privilege to be part of this blog family, I feel alone if I don't log on and read all the entries. Thanks guys. Beverly & Andrew Penney, Bridgewater, Tasmania "BEGIN AGAIN IN 2010"

Jo said...

Hi Jesse, I wanted to check in and wish you a good night. I just watched the albatross video again..I love it, it looks so peaceful out there. Wow getting closer to the Horn now, how exciting! Take care 'til next time.
Jo
Sydney

Anonymous said...

Hahaha! you sound great! No worries here! No pretending or faking, just be yourself!

Hahaha! I am surprised you have not been using the diesel heater all along!? why wait, why not make yourself as comfortable as can be, surely it does not take much fuel, it must take very very little fuel, so using it when you start getting colder temps, should help for sure. :)
Tim B. SF, CA, USA

zz said...

Go Jessica, we are with you 100%, my daughter says to tell you "girls CAN DO IT" you betcha you can...whip ass sailor!!!
Much Love

Anonymous said...

Hi Captain Jessica!

Hope everything is doing ok and EPL is doing her best. Fair winds and best wishes for you and EPL.

How is the crew doing so far?

God Bless, Marina

Amazedbyou said...

Hi there hezakiah299, Michael,

Love your blogs, read you all the time.

The "moccas". I suppose now I think about it, it is a Aussie slang word. Could be from UK?

Example as I know it. If someone is carrying a plate or a piece of crystal and you say to them "don't you drop that" and they drop it, then you are the person blamed for 'putting the moccas on them'.

It is a superstitious term of "things said will make for an unsuccessful outcome"....did I make any sense at all.

Thanks Michael read ya soon.

Anonymous said...

Dear Jessica,
my best wishes for the comming turbulencies. I cannot await to hear the next good news from you.
Barbara
Langenfeld, Germany

Anonymous said...

Hi Jessica,

Stay with you faith & good work

Good Luck!

Michal said...

Jessica we are with you crossing fingers for you! You can handle the forthcoming conditions, we know it. May God be with you!

Michal, Czech rep.

Anonymous said...

Hi Jesse,

Good Luck!

Anonymous said...

Hi Jessica,

You Are Fully Prepared.You are fully prepared to deal with what's going on in your life right now. You've been through many experiences, overcome many obstacles and dealt with much adversity - all designed to prepare you for the RIGHT NOW.

You can handle this. You are ready. You have built yourself up, thought this through and practiced for this moment.

You are fully prepared to handle what's right in front of you. So go to it with full confidence!

Cheers,
Nick
Sydney, Australia

Anonymous said...

I'm sure some of the bloggers here will find this link interesting,Its a global surf forecast site, it gives 7 day forecasts for swell,surf, wave period,and wind. This link is for the south pacific region, inc. Cape Horn, once around the cape, click on the next geographical section.
Dave, Ulladulla.
http://www.weather.com/activities/recreation/boatandbeach/surf/ocean/southpacific.html

Anonymous said...

Jessica,
Your journey is an absolute inspiration to alot of people. I was not following ur trip until today when i sat glued to ur blog reading it for hours. I am now up to speed on ur trip. Best of Luck with Cape Hornbag (sorry my way to put a smile on your face) and I shall endeavour to catch u on the other side.
bringbackthebears@y7mail.com

hezakiah299 said...

01-04-10 @ 08:08
For those bloggers that were concerned about Jessica not using her heater.
I believe the reason that Jessica is not using her diesel heater is because she has plenty of foul weather gear on and that’s keeping her warm. Once her body is acclimated to the cold she’s better off not trying to get over heated, since she will be going outside again. Too much changing of her body temperature will only make her sick. I’m sure she’s comfortable.
Michael (74) from Kingwood, WV

Anonymous said...

Hi Jessica,
You are such a brave girl to take
on a lone voyage by sea. Thinking of you out there in your little pink yacht. Keep warm and dryand safe as you go around Cape Horn.
All the best wishes for you.
Leah from Wagga.

workerbev said...

Hi Jessica, Beverly here in Tassie. We're having a gorgeous night, supposed to only get down to 13C, beautiful sleeping weather, and I feel a slight breeze blowing in my window. I reckon you are gritting your teeth by now if you are in that storm you were talking about.

I can't figure out the weather maps everyone is talking about, guess you can't teach an "old dog" new tricks like I told new blogger Romy(8).

Just finished my nightly routines, cleaned my cat's (Pudi) litter boxes, yep, she has to have two, one for one and one for two. She is soooo spoiled! Then I had to give "Bird" (budgie) fresh water & food and change his paper on the bottom. Come to think of it, they are "Both" spoiled rotten. Now if I had animals like your "crew" I wouldn't have to do these nightly chores every night. Nah, wouldn't be as fun.

I was trying to calculate how far Cdr Donde is from you but I can't figure that out either. Gosh, I feel dumb. I know, I know, I have a plan! I'll just let the super smart people in the blog family figure it all out and I'll just look at it from them. What a plan!!! and how lazy is that?

I hope the storm is getting over and calming down. I wonder if you had company this time. I wonder if you did your "spider" dance routine.

Well, I'll sign off for now and keep it short. Ha, never happen!

To the McGraths: that was so nice of you to offer what you did for RichieParis. What kind people you are. (We are redoing an old school bus into a camper, it's useable right now but I hope we can get it finished and hit the mainland in time for Jessica to come roaring up.) I sure hope Richie is working on Ch.4. He can't let it go now, we have read it all so far, so like you said, he has to continue until Jessica comes home! LOL Game On - RichieParis!!

Jessica, keep safe, keep tethered on, be happy, sing at the top of your voice, turn the music up. But most important of all - Remember that God is there beside you and His Legions of Angels are all around you and EPL safely guiding you through the vast open ocean.

{{{HUGS}}} til next time, Beverly & Andrew Penney, Bridgewater, Tasmania. BEGIN AGAIN IN 2010!

Richard Lathrop said...

Dear Jesse,

Belated Happy New Year--I've been off blog and on holiday for the past few rounds.

Your blog, your pics, your video served as a real treat when I arrived back on line at midnight. You seem to be thriving on the Southern Ocean.

Loved the video of Albatross banking just above the water--wing tip just a centimeter above the wave. I mentioned my fascination about this in a previous blog. Apparently there is an aerodynamic phenomenon occuring in that centimeter that helps Mr. Albatross with this--extra compression of the air.

Our northern hemisphere loons and the ubiquitous comorants also have great difficulty with their take-offs in no wind. But they are fabulous swimmers and will dive to evade capture. Does the Albatross spend any time at all below the water's surface? Somehow, I doubt it.

Dear Blog Family,

Jesse is now at latitude 55 south and at a longitude below 100 west. This means that she's about as close as she will get to those of us living in North or South America.

As Jesse crosses your particular line of longitude (mine's about 072)you can calculate this distance. For me, she will be approximately 5,760 nautical miles due south.

This distance can be found from our latitude difference. She at 55 South, I at 41 North. That adds up to 96 degrees of latitude, each of them exactly 60 nautical miles in length. That's 5760 nautical miles away--I'm sure the day will glow a little warmer as she passes.

If your into precise distances, know that each degree of latitude is broken down into 60 minutes of latitude making the very convenient fact that each minute of latitude is exactly one nautical mile.

So, you armchair navigators, get out your globes and your calculators.

Happy New Year to all.

Richard Lathrop

Question for Samuri: Are women allowed into Australian Pubs? (lol)

Doblers said...

Hi Jessica,
happy New Year to you! Heard about your great project here in Switzerland.
We are thinking of you and keep going!
Take care and come home safe!

samurai said...

To Clint Jeffrey and Amazedbyou
That's what I said :-)) darn spellbchecker! :-)) Amazedbyou, I'm with Michael, what are Moccas?

All jokes aside, Jessica I'm thinking of you with excited anticipation in the belief that you will get through this rough patch with flying colours. I hope your little heater is working well and your cabin is nice and cosy warm. Keep up with the diet and fluids. Stay safe and bye for now...Sam

Mary said...

Dear Jess and fellow bloggers,

Today is Monday, January 4th and I've been away from my computer for a few days so I'm looking forward to catching up with everyone's posts.

Jessica, you sound great in your "Calm Before the Storm" post. I'm keeping you in my thoughts and prayers, as always, and sending you my love, strength, courage and clarity. May your ride be safe, with joy and exhiliration.

Sail on, Captain!!!!!
Mary, Maine, USA

MountainSailor said...

You GO Girl! Denver, Colorado, USA is keeping tabs and wishing you all the best. Sounds like Ella's Pink Lady is taking great care of you.

Stay warm!

Anonymous said...

I can't believe that you're out there all by yourself! Hopefully you have smooth sailing.

Amazedbyou said...

Hi there, MCGRATH family.

ooh ahh its McGraths. (Cricket chant, you have to know Glen McGrath) Anyway, Hey I have been speaking to family, Jonathon@Tooradin, he's the pilot you know, anyway, you need to look at his blue link, go to his email and he may be able to provide or sync wonderful assistance with the blogger flag. Have your ears been burning, cause we have been talking about ya...all good though. Cheers.

Assistance for Blog Family.

Hold Ctrl and the letter 'F' same time, and you will be given a search thingy. (When on the blog site). Then you can type, "interview with god neptune" and it will take you there, if it is within the current blog/page. too easy. You will find anything you like. Cheers.

Marge said...

Jessica, you talk about the height of the seas/waves...how do you "KNOW" how high they are? Is there an instrument that measures them? And what's "end-for-ended the headsail sheets?" I am guessing it means you took the ropes out of the sail etc. and then put them back the opposite way so they would rub in totally different places??? I love it when you teach us technical stuff!!!
Marge

June Kingaroy said...

Hey Jess- you are doing great ! I love reading your entries - Stay Safe!

Anonymous said...

Greetings Jesse!
My sister, Jenny and I are faithfully following you and EPL on your solo journey! As we read your blog, you are the picture of the expression: "follow your bliss!" You are simply an inspiration to everyone who's ever had a dream! We enjoy your updates, your pics, and your videos! We had not planned to post a comment, but were inspired by your "blog family" that's become such a caring community! So, as you're challenged in the coming days as you near Cape Horn and perhaps your toughest sailing conditions, we're thinking of you, praying for you and sending you supportive thoughts! Like all your followers, we have EVERY faith in you, your skills, abilities and EPL! You WILL succeed!
God Bless You,
Marcella and Jenny in Massachusetts, USA

Jibhank said...

Glad to hear the storm was not so severe. We've been following your progress since early November and we are rooting for you! I lived aboard a Hunter 42 for 8 years summer and winter in Long Island. My heater, a heat exchanger, generally failed when the water temp dropped below 5 celsius.

Anyhow, best of everything.

Loni said...

Hi Jessica. My name is Lauren (but everyone calls me Loni) and I am six and half (so my dad is typing this for me). I have sailed with him all my life and we have been watching your trip on the internet. We think its great. We have just been looking on the globe where you are going. Good luck.

Unknown said...

Hi Jessica,
First time I've written but have been following your blogs. I'm a parent, so I naturaly worry a "little bit" and pray for your safety. But you have prepared well. Your blogs are positive yet reaslistic and very informative. Stay calm, steady and determined. I'm very proud of you!
Regards
Alan Tiller - Brisbane

Anonymous said...

You know how no one wants to be told what to do? (especially your age)!

Well, we want you home!

Your not just an Australian child Jess!

You've taken us through that!

You have won the heart of all the good people!

You are building us a bridge and it's working!

Even my mut sees's the changes in me!

Don't ever get complacent!

WORK HARDER!!!

Your a kid in my eyes but you are an extraordinary woman!

Don't grow up to fast kiddo, we love you, please let us protect you!

Get through Cape Horne Jessica!

Don't you dare let us down unless you can't help it!

You will always be a winner and we will always be with you!

Thick n thin!

Go Jesse! Go!

Sarena said...

Hey Jess,

I hope you are safe and healthly.I have read everything on your website i go on there everyday checking to hope you are ok and in good spirts!

All the Best,
Sarena
Sydney,Australia

Dee58 said...

HAPPY NEW YEAR
From Dee58 and friends
we all wish you well from our nursing home here on the Sunshine Coast I read your daily blogs as an activitiy which they all enjoy.
We all send our love and best wishes and not too far is Cape Horn
Good Luck we a all thinking of you back here

We have just completed out Zigsaw a map of the world so have pointers so we can track your movements!

Take care Jess I feel for you in that cold you a so brave!!

Go For It Girls!!

Dee58 & Residents Sunshine Coast

Unknown said...

Hi Jessica - and very best wishes from a landlubber in New Zealand.
You are a true hero, and have achieved so much already.
Keep going, keep smiling, and the second half will be even more rewarding.

Go Jesse!

Davecmet/BOI/NZ

keco said...

hello again Jessica.
read your last blog. Love the way your mind is working. you sound bight and alert.
Keep it up Jessica you are a golden light in the ANZAc spirit.
happy sailing.

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