Flat seas and sunshine for the last few days and I'm loving it, even if Ella's Pink Lady's speeds are a bit of the slow side. There's been a few too many 3 knots on the 'speedo', not exactly glamorous but we are moving and with thesun shining it's a bit hard to worry about anything too much!
This is definitely an attitude I'm going to have to put some serious effort into changing, if I ever decide to have a go at racing. Otherwise I'd be left at the back of the fleet every time the sun came out!
The other day I finally had the bright idea of un-bolting the Toughbook computer from its place at the nav station and taking it out into the cockpit to get some typing done. (Don't ask me why I didn't think of this earlier?). Sitting in front of a computer is a hundred times more pleasant when outside right next to the water. It's also far easier to persuade myself to actually sit down and get everything done. Apologies to anyone reading this while surrounded by four walls!
So while sitting outside in my lovely outdoor office I had two cute bluefish join us. They spent the afternoon swimming around us, nibbling away at who knows what on the hull. It's good to know that someone's keeping the hull clean of weed. Sort of like a drive-through car wash really!
Ella's Pink Lady is moving nicely at the moment but we've got headwinds with the wind from the south east which means that we're not quite making the course that I'd like to be on. Also, tomorrow or possibly later today, we should becrossing over the Prime Meridien. I can't wait to be back in the eastern hemisphere, then it really will feel like we're on the way home.
It's great to have everyone back online after the problems with the blog server. The technical details are completely beyond me, so I'll stay out of trying to explain, but it sure sounds like it caused all sorts of drama back on land. Welcome back to everyone anyway!
Jesse
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
280 comments:
«Oldest ‹Older 201 – 280 of 280Hello Captain Sunshine! Welcome back to you as well!
I envy you at your new outdoor office! Question: As soon as those bluefish fatten themselves on hullchow, are you going to try to catch them? :-)Happy Valentines day to you and your pink heartship Lady Ella! Wishing you also more favorable winds to scoot you into the more familiar and friendly hemisphere!
My best, Pipefish, California Usa
@Samurai: Thanks for the link to Grants latest song. Is it O.K. for a tough old guy to get a little bit choked up? Nice job again, Grant.
From Seattle, WA, USA
SaltyDog
hi jess and all bloggers,
happy valentines day from Bangalore
and thanks to all those birthday wishes - my day was made.
love
Sundar
Hi Jesse,
Of all the blogs darling, I hope you noted the only one (from anon) who asked you to be his VALENTINE! (well, I'm assuming it was a 'he')!
Hope the weather continues to be tropically sunny and you still have some 'friends' out and about.
However, a word of advice regarding feeding the birdies too many chokkie bikkies...(warning, this message may offend some viewers)....they poooop like caramel and it STICKS like glue.. (and stinks). It's almost impossible to remove without a grinder, even then one must allow it to set for at least 12 months until it becomes rock hard. Speaking from too much experience here, so please belive me!! Plus of course it's just not good for them,(in case there are any RSPCA inspectors tuning in)!!
SaltyDog, I agree, funny poem, and glad to see your sense of humour and kind nature are attracting a faithful following. 'He aint heavy'...you uplift us all.
Thankyou Trudy for your kind words...are you in America?
Outstanding Opening Ceremony of the Winter Olympics. If I were a Vancouverian, I would be puffed and chuffed with pride today.
Congratulations Canada.
Jesse and friends, til next time eat and (try to) sleep well with all these wonderful events taking place around the Globe .(oh yeah, and the Americas Cup...that amazing BMW yacht in Spain)
Ciao for now
HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY JESSE!!!
I'm sure you have lots of admirers that would want to send their hugs your way. As the Mum and three and having you as my adopted daughter I'm sending bigs hugs to you.
There's nothing wrong with having the attitude you have Jesse. You can always be the first at the wrong end and still be a winner for having completed the race
:-). Oh, and of course you will always be our winner for having the attitude you have!!!!!!! Winning a race is just a one off, or maybe a two off (not sure if that makes sense!!!), but having the attitude you have lasts a lifetime my dear, that is the attitude of a winner whether you come first or last.
I like the idea of having the computer outside. Just be safe while you're out there Jesse.
What kind little fish, cleaning EPL. See everyone, even the fish want to help out!!
Maybe if all your bloggers start blowing we can send you in the right direction.
Okay I'll start:
WHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO.........................................................................................................
Now everyone else can follow.
I hope that wind we create makes a difference.
Take care and my prayers are with you for a safe return home. You are doing a fantastic job.
Warmest wishes and big hugs. Jan Pace (Auckland, New Zealand)
HELLO JESSE - It has been a while since I last wrote to you but have been keeping up with all your news. It is one of the first and sometimes last things I do every day. Thank you also for your photo's and last video which I have just watched.
So glad all is going well, just keep on enjoying the sunshine. Funny how it can be such a tonic, but also sometimes it is good to have a break and some rain. As long as we don't get to much at one time. I imagine if it was very hot out there for you, it would be very tempting for you to have a swim but definately not a good idea. Just turn on that shower in the cockpit instead! You mentioned a few food items you were running short of. (Chocolate biscuits being one of them.) How is your supply of chocolate. Hopefully still a few treats left for you.
Happy Valentine's Day, hope there is a small treat somewhere on EPL for you.
Until next time, keep safe and look forward to your next up-date.
Lynne (Picton, NZ)
Hi Jessica
You had rub it in, with you sitting in your office with those fantastic views, watching the wild life parade pass you, while I sit in the study reading your blog, I am very jealous Jesse. In the next few months I will be checking out the wild life in my neck of the ocean, Whale Sharks, Humpback Whales, Manta Rays, turtles, etc. etc.
Being out in the cockpit, with great weather, little helpers cleaning the hull, while playing on the computer, doesn't get any better than that. Why don't you hang your dirty dishes over the side and get those little blue fish to help you out with the house work?
So hope the head winds change to a nice westerly and the sunshine stays out for a bit longer.
So keep having fun and KEEP SAFE JESSE.
Cheers George Simmons
Lots of love
Exmouth WA Australia
Hi Jess,
keep up them dodgers,
Jony the Pony
Good morning, pretty Captain!
Paris is all sunny and enjoying a neat blue sky today. Freezing temperatures don't spoil the pleasure of a beautiful light. I hope you have the same, but with a comfortable warmth, and some wind to help EPL chewing milles.
24 hours now that the comments have been restored, and still many jessaholics missing. Because of the week end, maybe. I hope there are no casualties.
For instance, where are our sailing experts, the Seattle tandem Grant-Bob? Our dear San Diegan, Cheryl? Steve? Bobcat? I hope to them surface soon.
Not to mention Jessica's Jokester, lost at sea months ago now...
Have a nice Sunday and a Happy Valentine's Day.
You should, as not hundreds, but thousands of hearts are beating for you in the distance.
Don't you hear them? If not, I am sure you feel them; like your dolphins, they come from all the directions, except maybe South (that's a very convenient way to know where North and South are).
What Susan in Oregon and Mel M tell us about Bluefish is not much pleasant. If they were to look agressive toward you, please send a word to Paul, and I am sure that his Killer Whales will get you rid of these cannibalistic swimming pests.
Good winds and merry surfing, beloved Captain Jesse! EPL and all her crew are in our minds 24/24.
Dear Jessica!
I follow your blogg almost every day. You are one brave 16-year old. Where does your courage come from? How do you keep the spirit up when you feel alone and isolated in the middle of nowhere? That i'd like to know.
Happy Valentine!
Jens
Stockholm, Sweden
Hi Jess,
keep up them dodgers!
Jony the Pony
Hi Jessica!
i've been reading your writing i think your going well and your really brave i want to be like you when i'm older
Taneesha
Hey Jesse,
Just wanted to say GDay. I deploy to the Middle East in two days with the Australian Defence Force for a 6 month tour. I wanted to say you're a true inspiration, and I'll be keeping updated when I can, cheering you home.
Stay safe and best wishes,
Michael.
Dear Jessica,
Lovely to be able to chat with you again.
Happy Valentine's Day! Hope you find something extra in your food bag to celebrate the day with.
By chance I took a look in your old blog. I have missed to read all comments. It's nice to hear that you now have a very special "office". Enjoy it out there. Keep smiling and sail on safe.
Regards,
Ingrid, Tyreso, Sweden
Happy valentine's Day!!
ciao from Italy,
Andy
OK Jesse, you can let the cat out of the bag now - how many choccies have you had today already?
Mike (Canberra)
Young Australian of the Year... Jessica "Gorgeousness" Watson...
no doubt about my vote.
Safe seas, good sailing Jessica, May you & EPL bring each other home safely & as a bonus do so well inside Jesse Martin's record!
Watching you every wave of the way Jessica & bursting with pride.
Stephen Lyons, Jervis Bay
.
Hey Jesse....
Most excellent words from you ...all the 'serrieds' love such !!.... and real good that you're soaking up some real 'quality' sailing.... and the Atlantic Ocean is as good a place as any to be 'out ther , on your own, jus' "sailing along".. Hehheh.
I know what you're talking about the 'sailing' for the fun and 'racing' with a purpose......
Way back, I sailed up front on a 'Fireball" ( and a Corsair and several Cats... having started on a Dingbat...) and then owned my own "International Contender" for several years...... For _me_ it was always such a pain to terminate the thrill of 'flying' because of "The Course" and "The Race".... the thrill was always in "Being There" ( sailing)... Prolly why I loved sailboarding 'just for the fun of it' !!!
So... if you're absorbing the 'Being There'... as I know you are'.... Soak it all up 'corz that's where it's "At" !! Hehheh.
..... and, if you can keep the line out of the gear..... a fresh fish has _gotta_ be trier, eh !!
... catchya later...
.... Ooc.
.
Happy Valentines Day and Happy Chinese New Year too, Jessica.It's the Year of the Tiger beginning. I'd say that you definitely have a bit of tiger in you! Thanks again for the updates! Happy sailing!
Jill (Newcastle)
Groucho, 14 Feb, 11:41AM:
You are a cracker...
Does that mean, when I pick up one of those books sold at a chocolate factory, that Jess won't sign it, but leave sticky choc fingerprints all over the pages ?
Have you seen one of those clips on youtube, where she is complaining about dizziness and gravity problems after a few days sailing from Qld to Sydney ? Clearly a mild case of "Drunken Swan" syndrome. Just look at the cosmonauts, when they came back from 6 months Zero-Gravity in Space. Straight into the couch in the middle of Khazakstan and off by forklift...
Cave Beach Andrew, can you organise a Golf buggy for the reception ?
Kenny
Okay Richie, I will admit that I am old enough to remember "Red Roses For A Blue Lady".
I like your version better. : )
Jessica,
I "stumbled" on you a couple of weeks ago and have been following your journey since. I want you to know the effect you're having on my daughter - a brilliant, tough, passionate girl near your age that we adopted from China at a young age. She had a breakdown some months ago - the trauma of her original and violent abandonment had been triggered and suddenly her mind just disconnected from her body. She was unable to talk for weeks, we had to take her out of school. She's now well on her journey back to health. And you have become part of that journey - as a model of courage, of one who is forward-looking, who takes each challenge as it comes, who lives life to the full, who doesn't let fear rule. My daughter immediately picked up on your ability to stay positive and how that affects your outlook on life and told me - that's how I am going to live. I don't know a thing about sailing, but I know alot about living and I just wanted you to know that there is a young girl in a distant place who has traveled her own rough seas and is learning to navigate them, grateful for your example.
I've been following your journey with great interest. I become concerned if there is no update for a couple of days. I realise how busy you must get. My thoughts are with you each day.
Jane.
Happy Valentines Day Jessica
Somethings are so simple or obvious that we often wonder why we dont pick up on it earlier. What other things could you be doing outside instead of being cooped up in the cabin.
It is also good to be able be back in touch with you. Thats the trouble of being so popular and famous
Did you get any videos or pics of the fish
Safe Sailing
Ha Ha Molly, some songs have no age and this one is a standard, even if not much metal house techno hip hop trip trop or the last weeks' trend, but a pretty lady is always 25, so if you want to declare yourself old, it may only be compared to our Jesse, otherwise it is just impossible. Look around on the blog, watch any of the followers: I don't see any who looks more than 30! (heart or mind).
About Groupama 3, they went down the Atlantic on the western side and are now more South than EPL; in fact the giant trimaran is speeding at 34 knots and is already ahead of Jessica. They should round Good Hope within 18 hours... If Jesse can catch them on the radio, it is right now!
Happy journey, Captain Cookie!
Hi Jessica,
I've had a peep at the isobars around you and they are about a 1000kms apart!!!!
That means no wind. Ho hum.
Hey ♣Killer whales! that was an awesome display from your cousins in the opening ceremony:)
Does anyone else reckon the Winter Olympic medals look like bent hub-caps from the bobsleigh?
Hey blog family!
I was wondering why sailors in a race call wind 'pressure' when the higher the pressure the lower the wind.
☺☺☺ Hoo Roo ☺☺☺
SaltyDog...?? I reckon you're a SugarPup in disguise.
And now for some useless information you can't afford to do without...
This Day in Music History: 1956 -"The Great Pretender" by the Platters topped the charts for 2 weeks.
Kung Hei Fat Choy...Happy New Year!
The year of the Tiger.
Wishing you all Peace and Harmony.
Sam XX
Nice idea on the outside office. Until of course she gets soaked! Then it's an anchor. I've dropped too many phones overboard along with a couple GPS so I'm not allowed to have electronics in the cockpit or on deck.
Good luck!
Happy Valentines Day!! Your doing great !!!
Hi Jess,
keep up them dodgers,
Jony the Pony
Jesse
Happy Valentines Day and God speed 'round the Cape.
Thanks for all the updates and videos :)
John N (Dublin) xxx
PS. Good luck to all competitors in the womens bobsleigh event in Vancouver
Hi Jessica,
Hope you get to see this right today. Couple of lines only to wish you and your CentCom team down under a ... HAPPY VALENTINE's! See your greetings e-card at http://bit.ly/8YGhuc
COMMS NOTEs: The email address posted is disposable and will be gone automatically in a week. The card itself is viewable online for about a month, I think, not sure. After that, in turn, I will delete this bit.ly link.
Best,
H.
Amsterdam
Netherlands
Hi Jesse
I am so pleased to hear you enjoying the sunshine. We got a taste of it here in Fontainebleau for a while today and it was such a welcome relief. Have had snow again this past week and temperatures have been very COLD. Spent the afternoon sitting by the Seine soaking up the sun. Magic.
You sound very happy and EPL seems as always to be in tiptop shape. Hope you get the right winds to keep you on your prefered course.
Have a great week.
Gillian, France
Jessica,
Glad to finally hear from you again and that things are going well, even though a little slow. Enoy the down time and blue sky! Here in South Dakota we're wishing for blue sky and warm weather and no more SNOW! It was a rough few days not being able to hear your updates! Happy Valentine's Day!
Denise and family
South Dakota, USA
Bonjour Jessica & Ella's Pink Lady,
Also sailing solo on his journey home, Bernt Lüchtenborg had thoughts for you:
"08.02.2010 11:45(UTC)
Routineeintrag
37° 15,910' S, 020° 47,280' W
7 kn, 42°
Wetter
Wind 30 kn, WSW
Luft 18 °C, 1000 hPa
Seegang Stufe 6
Bewölkung wolkig 50 - 80%
Niederschlag kein
Sicht gut (10 NM)
Antrieb
Groß 65 m2 Reff 1
Genua 60m2 90%
Bemerkung
199. Seetag – Log: 25455 sm - Nach dem Sturm, ist vor dem Sturm: Aufräum- und Reparaturarbeiten. Ein Dwarslöper (quer zum Schiff laufende hohe Welle) hat uns voll erwischt und auf die Seite geknallt. Denke dabei an die kleine Jessie Watson, der das in diesen Gewässern einige Male hintereinander passiert sein soll. In dem Kaventsmann saß soviel Wucht und Kraft, dass die Bodenbretter im Schiff hochkamen und der Batteriekasten in der Bilge aus der Verankerung gerissen und seitwärts verschoben wurde. Doch wozu hat man Holz, Axt und Säge an Bord: Ein paar Keile gefertigt und die ganze Unterboden-Konstruktion wieder festgesetzt. Kaum fertig, riss die Stb. Steuerungsleine der Windfahne. Den Simrad-Autopilot eingeschaltet und kopfüber, halb über Bord hängend, aber gut gesichert, während der Fahrt die Aries repariert. Eine Zirkusnummer. Auf diesem Törn befinden sich Körper und Geist ununterbrochen in höchster Anspannung. Eine kritische Situation folgt der nächsten und man kann froh sein, wenn eine Panne bewältigt ist, bevor die nächste auftaucht. Oftmals summieren sich die Missgeschicke zu einer komplexen Lage, sodass es keine Lösung zu geben scheint. Doch Not macht besonders an Bord erfinderisch und schärft die Sinne in staunenswerter Weise "
Today is also:
- The first anniversary of Dilip Donde & Mahdei at sea;
- The Chinese New Year: year of the Tiger;
- The New Moon;
All of which you can enjoy while at sea!
Take care, be safe.
Hi Jess, Great reading at the lodge of our ski hill in NS. Good luck and smooth passage.
Frank
Skip'Ohoy.Captain Jessica.Happy Valentine day.Good to see everyting is alright.From:Herman.Hampstead.USA.
Hey Jessica,
it is very impressive to me what You are doing out there in the great wide Oceans. I read it in our local newspaper!
Good Luck to You
Best wishes, Chris Bräuner
Jessica
it is great to read your Blog again.... by now you will have crossed the Prime Meridian ...
SO WELCOME BACK TO THE EASTERN half of the Globe!
Here is hoping for better winds.
Addicted
Bruce Stahley/Sydney
BE MY VALENTINE JESSICA
Lenny Pittsburgh PA.
I think change is always welcome. Moving outdoors sounds like it has sparked some new spring in your blog. I would keep track of the computer bolts... lol the weather seems to change rather quickly for you and EPL.
BTW, in case you haven't been monitoring... your team is really doing a fantastic job. They are fully aware of how many of us throughout the world are concerned and care about you. Special thanks to Team JW! :)
Blessings,
See Ya Sailor!
Good Morning to you Jesse
Yes from the 4 walls of my office -your office is definintely more appealing, although I would probably not get any work done if I was in your office!!! It would be too tempting to kick back and enjoy the spectacular view.
Smart thinking about the unbolting of your computer and sitting out on deck to type even if it did take a while for the penny to drop!
Loved your comment on the bluefish and the drive through car wash - a great analagy! Very cute!
How are the pringles going Jesse - are you rationing the balance of them out or are you saving them for special occasions?
It's been a wet few days here in Sydney town - a wet few weeks even. It's lovely - our lawn is lush and green and looks like a jungle at the moment as it's been too wet to mow! We watched some sailing races Friday Night from the shore line. It was literally pouring rain, the visibility was practically nil and apparently there were records set as to how much rain fell in that hour, but those yachties were still out there racing and battling the conditions. Our friends - who won their section - were drenched to the bone but still laughing!! It's all good fun.
Anyway - back to work... In my 4 walls...Drinking coffee to keep me away after a busy weekend.
Have a great day Jesse - take care and stay safe!
"I do not consider myself as the world's best sailor, I have never been in a yachting race in my life. I've just put up a bit of sail and done four knots all the way around the world - that's nothing special" Jesse Martin
"If we don't live our dreams, what's the point of living?" Jesse Martin
Sally In Sydney
02-14-10 @ 16:14
Hi Jessica,
Sydney newspaper said that you crossed the Prime Meridian, congrats to you Jessica. I was also glad to see some coverage on you. Some of the papers are really difficult.
I hope you’re taking it easy and enjoying yourself out there, you relax and get them scallywags to turn to and do some of the work. Maybe you could get some of them bluefish on board to help also, although someone said that they bite so be careful. LOL…..
One of our fellow bloggers (Michael) is going to the Middle East for about six (6) weeks, I hope all goes well for him.
@ Trudy: Where did you ever get the idea that I couldn’t count?????…lol…
@ Grant: Another nice song
@ Michael: Heading for the Middle East: Be safe and come home, may God be with you.
You take care of yourself Jessica, and get plenty of rest while you can.
Looking forward to your next post.
Loads of love and hugs, your faithful friend, fan and follower.
May God be with you and watch over you and may the angels keep your sails full, and I, I will keep you in my prayers.
Michael (75) from Kingwood, WV
Happy Valentines Day Jesse!
Your day in the sunshine sounds wonderful, good idea to move the office outside :o)
Stay safe and have fun,
~Deidre NC, USA
Hi, have just been catching up with your posts Jesse.
As I especially love to hear about your sightings of dolphins, was absolutely thrilled to read about you being surrounded by them.
What an extraordinary experience!
Thank you, for always taking the time to share those sort of things with us.
Continue to enjoy each day as you do.
Warm regards from East Gippsland, Vic, where we're currently getting a nice drop of rain for our gardens.
G'day Jess
Monday morning a sad start to the winter olympics with the loss of a Luge competitor from Georgia...very very sad. On a brighter note how about you ...you Aussie you...we can't do without sun for too long can we. Computer on deck sailing along, sun shining now in the "east" feeling like getting closer to home...life sounds good! Hopefully no headwinds today. My orange tree eating kangaroo was in the yard on Saturday again looking very bedraggled and wet as it was pouring...she was sheltering from the rain and hopped off as soon as I was sighted. I don't think I'm that frightening...then again
Sea Ya
Dusty from Dubbo
Hey Salty Dog
Great poem...set a copy to a mate in Colorado...he may get in touch...he is a writer!
Dusty from Dubbo
Good morning Jessica. It's good to have you back on Blog. I've not been here for a while, as every time I came on to the site it was still down. But NOW your BACK yeah, good to see all is well & you are doing GREAT. I have my atlas looking at were you are & enjoying the journey with you all the way. I wish I could talk my husband into coming to Sydney to see you come home (maybe I could) Hmmmmm, I haven't even asked him yet Hmmmmm. You are doing sooooo well. I tell everyone about you, I love sharing your journey with people. A lot of people still don't know much about you so I love telling your story to them. Still thinking of you everyday. Take care. Loads of love from Grandma Viv, Auckland, New Zealand. xo
Nice to have you back!!
Enjoy your Valentines Day in the sun...
Kathie (NYC)
Hi Jesse
Heard you crossed Doughnut Degrees,
Yummy and Well done!
I'm sure you'll remember to punch in E instead of W on the GPS.
Anyway, Mother Nature will remind you! If the Sun rises on the stern, maybe its time to tack or gybe.
Best wishes
John N
LYRICS
"So Far Away"
this is my life
its not what it was before
all these feelings i've shared
and these are my dreams
that i'd never lived before
somebody shake me
cuz i
i must be sleeping
[chorus]
now that we're here,
it's so far away
all the struggle we thought was in vain
all in the mistakes,
one life contained
they all finally start to go away
now that we're here its so far away
and i feel like i can face the day i can forgive
and i'm not ashamed to be the person that i am today
these are my words
that i've never said before
i think i'm doing okay
and this is the smile
that i've never shown before
somebody shake me cuz i
i must be sleeping
[chorus]
i'm so afraid of waking
please don't shake me
afraid of waking
please don't shake me.
By Staind
▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁
龠龠龠龠龠龠龠龠龠龠龠龠龠龠 龠龠龠龠龠龠龠龠龠
▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔
ConFuseUs says:
Girl who write with words at sea,
a lot like one who call True- D.
Their words like cement made with feathers
that knock me over and tickle me ever.
ConFuseUs, PLANET HYDEN WA AUSTRALIA.
▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁
龠龠龠龠龠龠龠龠龠龠龠龠龠龠龠龠龠龠龠龠龠龠龠
▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔
Hi again, Jess!
I write a weekly article for the local little rag up here on the mountain and this is what I've just put together for next week's edition. I thought you might enjoy it.
"TO DREAM THE IMPOSSIBLE DREAM…
The other day when being busy at not being busy while busily reading a book, at my leisure I worked out that I probably read, watch, hear and catch glimpses of the world’s news on a daily average of four hours! It would be similar for many of us, I suppose.
Every which way we look, we’re inundated with news – the good, the bad and the ugly - and there’s far too much of the latter two! However, amongst all the mayhem and horrors are the positive, inspirational stories inordinately abounding with goodness, bravery and empathy. Individuals reaching for the stars, fulfilling their dreams, win or lose, some pushing themselves beyond the point of human endurance. Unselfish actions and random acts of kinds touch our hearts, often making us question our own values in life.
Unique individuals like Moira Kelly of the Children’s First Foundation whose unfaltering love and support of separated conjoined twins, Krishna and Trishna, together with the work she’s done elsewhere through the years is humbling to a mere mortal such as me. The powerful team at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital, led by neurosurgeon Wirginia Maixner are the real “celebrities” of this world in which we flounder.
And let’s not overlook our young competitors in the Winter Olympics – Brittney Cox, the 15 year old mogul skier; 15 year old snowboarder Scott James and 16 year old figure skater Cheltzie Lee. Sure, it would be nice if they won a medal, but what’s more important is their dedication in following their dreams.
Let none of us forget young Jessica Watson, either. This brave, adventurous young woman is attempting something that is beyond the imagination of the majority. I follow her blog, and each day I’m inspired by this 16 year old. She is an extraordinary young lady. We should all be proud of her. Get behind her; barrack loudly! When many of her peers are out binge drinking, causing harm and havoc, not only to others but to themselves, as well, Jessica is proof the future is in good hands!"
@Samurai: A SugarPup, huh? That’s something that I’ve never been accused of before. An old salty dog, yes, but never a SugarPup. But thanks, Sam (I think.) :-))
From Seattle, WA, USA
SaltyDog
Jessica, I've posted this again because when proof-reading it I found a couple of errors...if you want (and can)to replace it with my previous submission, please do. :)
"The other day when being busy at not being busy while busily reading a book, at my leisure I worked out that I probably read, watch, hear and catch glimpses of the world’s news on a daily average of four hours! It would be similar for many of us, I suppose. Every which way we look, we’re inundated with news – the good, the bad and the ugly - and there’s far too much of the latter two! However, amongst all the mayhem and horrors are the positive, inspirational stories inordinately abounding with goodness, bravery and empathy. Individuals reaching for the stars, fulfilling their dreams, win or lose, some pushing themselves beyond the point of human endurance. Unselfish actions and random acts of kindness touch our hearts, often making us question our own values in life. Unique individuals like Moira Kelly of the Children’s First Foundation whose unfaltering love and support of separated conjoined twins, Krishna and Trishna, together with the work she’s done elsewhere through the years is humbling to a mere mortal such as me. The powerful team at Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital led by neurosurgeon, Wirginia Maixner, are the real “celebrities” of this world in which we flounder. And let’s not overlook our young competitors in the Winter Olympics – Brittney Cox, the 15 year old mogul skier; 15 year old snowboarder Scott James and 16 year old figure skater Cheltzie Lee. Sure, it would be nice if they won a medal, but what’s more important is their dedication in following their dreams. Let none of us forget our warrior of the high seas, Jessica Watson, either. This brave, adventurous young woman is attempting something that is beyond the imagination of the majority. I follow her blog, and each day I’m inspired by this 16 year old. She is an extraordinary young lady. We should all be proud of her. Get behind her; barrack loudly! When many of her peers are out binge drinking, causing harm and havoc, not only to others, but to themselves, as well, Jessica is proof the future is in good hands!"
Whoops! Too late! Never mind....my apologies for my typo - "kinds" instead of "kindness"!
Thank you Grant for your latest song tribute to Jesse, it's awesome, I enjoy your work so much.
While I was in YouTube I watched the video of Jesse Martin interviewing Jesse before she set sail, half way through the interview she introduces her scruffy crew and Chick with Attitude does a dance, it's priceless! Anyone who has not seen it the link is:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=OmdpQ4AFzZE&NR=1&feature=fvwp
Good luck Michael on your tour of duty in the Middle East, I hope you get to check in with us if ever that is possible.
I hope everything is great Jesse!
Thinking of you,
Bluefin Annie, Buderim, Queensland.
Bonjour Jessica & Ella's Pink Lady,
Enjoy your office while you can. Soon it will be... a classroom!! :-)
Enjoy, take care, be safe.
@ Richie Paris,
Let's wait to see what Jessica wants to do when she gets home.
One solution to your question would be for you to teach french at her school and for all of us bloggers to enroll in your class? And 'ze angliche' class also?
In any case we all have your e-mail. If not visit Richie Paris'profile.
@ Amazedbyyou,
Certainly was a dream you had. :-)
Farewell
Whoo hoo....Larry Ellison & BMW Oracle have won the America's Cup. After years residing in various countries around the globe (including land-locked Switzerland) the America's Cup is again back in San Francisco, USA.
Jessie, you may be too young to remember when the series was raced in Freemantle, but you might remember all the excitement in Auckland in 2000 & 2003? We travelled fron Vancouver to be there for the Louis Vuitton & America's Cup races in those years. Kinda different sailing to what you're doing, but exciting, none-the-less.
You go, girl!!
Brian & Phill
Vancouver, Canada
Hi Jess,
When do you expect to sail around the Cape of Good Hope ?
Happy Sailing :)
Susan, Adelaide
Great going Jess...
You are a true inspiration to those of us that are still yet to live their dream.
Enjoy yourself out there and cherish each and every moment.Even those moments that really test you.
Stormy
Hi Jessica
My husband & I are in awe of your achievements so far.
To your parents, we congratulate them on having the courage to allow you the freedom to follow your dreams.
Happy sailing, stay safe
Hey Jessica,
Your outdoor office sounds absolutley fabulous.
ps It is hot and humid in Buderim today:)
Happy Days
Elizabeth
Hi Jess, Wendy and I are following your progress and believe you are just amazing. Best wishes for the homeward stretch.
Wendy and Zamia (Maroochy school dental clinic).
Dear Jessica
I am the mother of four, so not a peer, but all my grown children are reading about you everyday, as well as Abby Sunderland. We are all enjoying the adventure through you and you are amazing. We are pulling for you every nautical mile of the way. What a run! You make us want to visit Australia! Go Jessica!! With love from The Menke Family in Clarksville Maryland, USA
Another Jessica Poem
Golden Presents
It settles to a shimmer, as the glistens sparkle bright
Blueness deepens darker, as the rays go deep from sight
Smoothness is a silken spread, almost like an aqua sheet
Undulating motion rocks, as swells roll under feet
Pelagics hang the hull sides, like remora to the shark
Darting into sunlight, out away from shadow’s dark
Feasting as they do, from growth attached below
These ocean fish are dining out, off Ella’s lunch they grow
Across my lap I bask in sun, on keyboard working fast
My work place is so glorious, I pray it ever lasts
Tapping out my story, I look way out to east
Way beyond horizon, across this shimmering gentle beast
I’ve crossed equator rounded horn, surfed the southern swells
Yet as I pass this zero mark, homeward journey now rings bells
Soon Table Mount will rise above, that distant north east sky
From that point It’s Aussie bound, ocean miles beneath will fly
Still I take this solitude, its splendour and its calm
As my reward for coming here, enduring ocean charm
The sun replaces energy, rejuvenates my mind
Slowly Africa comes closer near, the home of all mankind
I take it not for granted, success of what I do
For still there’s many miles, of yet to be accrued
But special days are gifts from Gods, golden presents from above
So basking whilst I type my tome, becomes my work of pure love
Brumbyy
Happy Valentine's Day Jessica!
You are just as glamorous going 3 knots or 6 !
If you can't surf the waves, you can surf the Web
Keep on Keepin On
Richard W
Hey Jess,
I got very nervous for you with all this talk of technical problems> Glad your back online.I am stiil luvin it.
Stay Safe
Berlin Red
Good on you Jessica, I'm writeing a book about touring Alaska & Canada while sitting on foredeck of my 31ft yacht JANOOM.I've been sailing for 45 years & I think you are fantastic. God speed young lady and may the forces be with you.
Lemon Tree Passage,NSW'
ROG
Good on you Jessica, I'm writeing a book about touring Alaska & Canada while sitting on foredeck of my 31ft yacht JANOOM.I've been sailing for 45 years & I think you are fantastic. God speed young lady and may the forces be with you.
Lemon Tree Passage,NSW'
ROG
Jesse,EPL is more a cruising yacht than a "racer" but will definitely make sure that you get the job done!The "speed" machines have a habit of suffering vital gear problems.Your boat speed average has been pretty good sofar,go Jesse & EPL!!! Have a great day Jesse,thoughts & prayers, Dougal
Hi Jesse
The withdrawal symptoms have been severe and I am so glad to have you and fellow Jessaholics back in my daily routine.
Happy Valentine's day Jesse and every one else.
Glad the weather has been behaving itself for you.
How much further you got before you pass Good Hope?
I wish you fine weather and fair winds Jesse.
Please don't lose the laptop us bloggers would be lost without you.
Love and hugs
Evie from bendigo
Hi Jessica,
Set spinnaker for Tassie. See you in April
Texas 12:00 midnight
Valentine's Day 2010
Happy Valentine's Day!!!
Captain Jesse the Explorer!!!
Ben from Texas
Jessica, however pleasant it may be to tap away on your Toughbook up on deck, please remember that salt spray is often unseen and insidious. Electronic components just hate salt spray and will certainly fail after an overdose.
Everyone says don't let your laptop fall into the sea, but the salt spray on even the finest sunny day, invisible to you, can be just as fatal. Very best wishes.
Hi Jess
Don't fight it just go with the flow and enjoy the rest. Sounds a perfect time to practice those fishing skills and stun everybody with a photo of a massive mackerel or a huge tuna. It might also drag the boat along and get you over the line.
cheers
Mike (Avoca Beach, NSW)
ROSES ARE RED
SAID THE SEA SHEPHERD!
BE MY VALENTINES BABY!
MY BEAUTIFUL PINK LADY!
hi jess, iv been following your blog on and off and im really pleased you have done so amazingly well, acheiving so much.
keep it up!!!!
caroline
hi jess, iv been following your blog on and off and im really pleased you have done so amazingly well, acheiving so much.
keep it up!!!!
caroline
Post a Comment