Only 450nm to Cape Horn and I'm even more excited now as Mum and Dad flew out of Australia today to watch Ella's Pink Lady rounding the Cape!
Jesse
Pic: Becalmed in the Southern Ocean with Albatrosses sitting in the water off Ella's Pink Lady's bow
Friday, January 8, 2010
Becalmed
Just a quick update. Becalmed today, but the Albatrosses have joined us again (see pic below).
Only 450nm to Cape Horn and I'm even more excited now as Mum and Dad flew out of Australia today to watch Ella's Pink Lady rounding the Cape!
Jesse
Pic: Becalmed in the Southern Ocean with Albatrosses sitting in the water off Ella's Pink Lady's bow
Only 450nm to Cape Horn and I'm even more excited now as Mum and Dad flew out of Australia today to watch Ella's Pink Lady rounding the Cape!
Jesse
Pic: Becalmed in the Southern Ocean with Albatrosses sitting in the water off Ella's Pink Lady's bow
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448 comments:
«Oldest ‹Older 401 – 448 of 448Cape Horn, amazing, still can't believe your almost past her, hope your good weather continues long enough for you to get by her without any harm, Cape Horn has been nice to you without a doubt, your stretch of good weather is just amazing....best wishes on your journey......you truly are a heroine...
Sharing your excitement rounding the Horn!
Eric
Georgia, USA
Hi Jesse,
Still thinking of you. While I know that you're busy, I pray that you're also safe.
June and Richard Thorn
Take good care, from Texas!
Jesse,
Can't imagine the excitement of rounding the Cape! There's a story you can tell your kids, right?
Out of curiosity, how far off the cape are you tracking? I imagine close enough to see it, but far enough to avoid trouble, right?
I love your Blog and read it every day!
Ian (SmellyCat)
Ottawa, Canada
Good morning Jesse
Monday 11th and I survived my swimming race yesterday just....not fit and at one stage I thought i would need the oxyviva..at least I didn't come last. Oh to be your age again 16 and fit. Hope you had a good Sunday and that the weather has been favourable as you get closer and closer to the Cape. Your press over the weekend has been good and the doubters few and far between.
Keep going you good thing and hopefully you will get a huge visual g'day from mum and dad soon.
Sea ya..stay clipped and sleep well when you can
Dusty from Dubbo via Lennox Head
Message for Michael from Kingwood.
A very happy birthday to you :-)) dear friend from over the seas!!
Wishing you every blessing; in grateful thanks for your very special, warm and wonderful words of encouragement to our Jess.
We look forward to reading what you have to say everyday. Your contributions through the 'blog family' are unfailingly upbeat and so supportive.
Your wisdom and good humour are especially enjoyed by us, Jess' paternal grandparents, as we are of similar ages to you. Be assured that you are in the company of many friends today with whoever and however you celebrate your 'special day'.
Hope this arrives in the correct time zone, I personally find time zones a little bit confusing! (Billie) Tom is more up with the play.
Anyway signing off now, but with warm thoughts of you and praying for you The Good Lord's blessing and protection. By the way don't forget to celebrate with your Guardian Angel who has helped to keep you safe thus far! - & many many more birthdays to come!
Billie & Tom from Waikanae NZ.
Hey Jesse,
I guess your getting real close now and very excited about achieving another milestone in your log.
Samurai-: I'm not worried about what you say, as I don't think you'd sat anything untoward on the web site, its just been that long I had to google "makin out" to jog the memory, that's when the little lady punched me. No sense of humor.
Jess, Take care and congrats for rounding the horn, you may say I'm a bit premature but I expect there will be that many well wishers that I'll be lucky to get on the web site.
You've got that many followers (fans) they range from home to the 4 corners of the globe, that's just another thing you've achieved.
fair winds and following seas.
Angus.
I'd rather read about light winds than storms! I know the going is slow, and we all can't wait for you to round the Cape, but I am happy that the weather is not rough. Have a safe rounding! Pulling for you in Seattle.
Hi,Jessica,
We all await your update,more talking between all,that's good,since we all have comments that thoughtful and sometimes needs interpretations,lets not forget we are here for Jessica to enjoy our SUPPORT and LOVE.
Jessica,hope your silence is not because you are bored of us,but rather busy with your checklist prior to your turn into the CAPE.
Trust your ''feathered escort'' is still with you and or your dolphin has returned to play and watch over you.
So I guess no one in the ''world family''has taken me up on my last post in regards to the music lyrics I put out to all,the snow ball wouldn't have it anyway...
Stay warm and safe young lady of the sea,keep your ''stuffy crew'' helping you too.
To the ''Victoria'' family hope you are all handling the temps and the fire hazards you are all facing,may God keep you all safe and protected from the elements.
Suggestion to ''Molly'' try ''Victoria Bitter'' or KB cold,two great brews I used to drink when I was young living in Sydney in the seventies,just another one to sample.
Jessica,hugs to you and your crew,
await with baited breath your next update and HOPE a video.
Transplanted ''Aussie'',
Stephen. M.,
Maryland,USA.
HELLO JESSE
I have just been reading the latest blogs from your friends. As you have mentioned you love how they all talk among themselves while waiting to hear from you.
Really, there are some very clever and funny people out there. You do bring out the best in us all I am sure. I must admit I to am a Jessaholic, can't start or finish the day without checking news from you, or the bloggers themselves. Thank you.
Lynne (Picton, NZ)
Thanks to the land team for the update .. !
Becalmed...well...rats! And you can't even get your beach chair out and laze in the sun.
I'm reminded of the days just before Jesse Martin was to meet up with his mom, he was also frustratingly becalmed.
At least the albatross like it ... they get to hang out with you and the buoys.
I have it on good word, that when the albies realized they were being photographed, they wanted to make it memorable, and something that would engage folks in deep philosophical discussions (as has happened...!) After all, they travel far and wide (they always have the best view on their flights I might point out) and they are cultured birds, and love beauty, and when they aren't traveling, they love gathering for the usual chatter, yes, but more so for profoundly deep philosophical discussions as they pass their winters. It isn't as if they haven't been photographed before, but to be photographed by the infamous Jesse Watson! And, to have your picture seen around the world, this needed to be special. If they only had a bit more advance notice, they would have "stood" on the water, with their feet just barely touching the surface, and their wingstips also touching... The Waltz of The Albatross, never before captured on film or seen by humans. They have guarded this secret with the same ferocity packed into the winter storms. Who could understand the sheer exhilaration of waltzing on the southern ocean? But for Jesse and Ellas Pink Lady... Oh, that color, such a beautiful and unique vision she brought them, and they wanted to give her something of equal beauty and value. They were communing and had just agreed to reveal this ancient holy dance to Jesse and her pink companion, knowing it would be seen by the world, but alas, the photo was taken before they had time to rise up and waltz for Jesse and Ella.
Maybe it's better that some things remain unseen.
Susan in Oregon
As I carried a small little spider outside today, I realized another good thing about being out on the ocean... spiders don't find their way into your house!
Hi Jessica
I am a parent of four adult children, and pray for you daily.
I think you are an incrediable lady who can achive incredible things not only in sailing but also in life.
Keep up your courage and hope for your onward journey, your life can be very rewarding and exciting.
Remember you are not only sailing around the world but right on through life.
From
Keith Lawrence
Mackay, Qld
Hi again Jessica
Well you have certainly caused a buzz around your “adoptive family” with the announcement that your Mum and Dad have left for Cape Horn to be there when you sail past. What an emotional time this will be for you, and them, and of course us. We hope you have good weather for the rounding, and would love to have some photos posted of this wonderful milestone of your voyage.
In spite of the emotion dear girl, keep focused on the job at hand, and above all – stay safe.
Go-Girl-Go.
With Love from Faye and Max (Mulgrave Vic)
jesse,
i'm shaking! honestly.
the Horn is fast approaching.
TONS of prayers and warm hugs.
God is with you sweetie, and thru his angels - the dolphins, albatrosses, and silly too.
When those big Cape waves approach
your bow jess,
look them right in the eye and say,
YOU LOOKING AT ME - WAVE???
and plow right thru'em jess!
The Cape is closing fast,
our prayers are being said,
our fingers crossed sweetie,
PENNSYLVANIA SAYS 'GO JESS GO'
please be very careful
lenny Pittsburgh PA.
Morning Jess!
Just a saying for anyone but especially for you out there!
Watch your thoughts, for they become words!
Watch your words, for they become actions!
Watch your actions, for they become habits!
Watch your habits, for they become your character!
I guess you'll always be an extreme character Jess!
Take extreme care kiddo!
Be extra safe and try not to get sick of hearing that!
Billy!
Hi Jessica
It should be thanks to the shore team for the update, poor Jesse must be so frustrated at the slow progress, but there is not alot she can do when the weather will not play ball. When the wind picks up, which I'm sure it will (not to much I hope), have a great time knocking over this milestone and give your parents a big wave, a big smile and throw lots of kisses. So hang in there Jesse we are all with you, the horn will be soon behind you and bring on the South Atlantic.
We are all holding our breath and when this part is over, we all can breathe a little easier.
So keep having fun and most of all KEEP SAFE.
Cheers George Simmons
lots of love from Exmouth WA Australia
38 degrees here in Canberra today/tomorrow. 43 in Melbourne. Just though you'd like to know. Any traditional tasks to do when you round the Cape? Thanks for the blog, it starts my day.
Cheers
"Happy Birthday Michael"
I hope you have a very happy Birthday Michael (Kingwood W.V.) I always enjoy reading your blog comments. Like most of us you are a proud and loyal supporter of Jesse and I know your contributions help, even in a small way, to get our Girl over the line.
All the very best,
Bluefin (Annie) Buderim, Queensland.
Jess,
As so many have said, what a challenge you are accomplishing! I have watched the posts every day since your departure - it is now in my daily routine - and I can only do my level best to "Cheer" you on as you proceed through "troubled waters". You can and will do it - round the "horn" and then set sail for "Hope". Cheers! An admirer of courage and determination...
Graham
TO:
Michael (75) from Kingwood, WV (USA)
A GREAT BIG HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!
Mine is the 16th, so we can toast each other - let's set sail with Captain Morgan.
Gayle
Hi Jess
I hope that the wind has picked up a bit for you. I hope that you don't have to frequently tack your way through the entire length of passage. I love the picture of you becalmed with the birds - hard to believe that you are where you are.
Anyway, this was just a quick message to say hi and to say keep up the good work.
Best wishes
Bruce
Hi Jessica,
thanks for your post.
After passing the equator those albatrosses joining must be send by neptun himself to sheer you up passing cape horn - don't you think so ;) Have fun
Greetings from Germany, Sven
RE: Kahuna
January 10, 2010 8:44 PM
Some mighty fine substance. Welcome!
RE: Michael (75) from Kingwood, WV (USA)
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
Mike D
Landlocked in Philadelphia, Pa, USA
Captain Jessica-
Here's to some gale storms!
I just thought I'd put that in since you're up the wall with becalmed seas.
Actually, my mother told me my namesake is Gale Storm...don't ask me why my name is spelled with a "y". I guess to make me ask why... She is not with the firm anymore. But she was a gorgeous lady, we look(ed) a lot alike. LOL!
Happy Birthday again to Michael (75) of Kingswood,WV.
Put 56 on my cake, please. Fire that baby up!!! Time to brush off the old pilot's license and go do some skud running!! LOL! To the F.A.A.: just kidding, really!! No I won't mail you my license. I earned this baby!
Gayle
Ha ha Jesse! Love the mindless and trashy book comment, and it makes perfect sense! I'm so glad the wind picks up for you again, and draws you closer to the cape. Still here wishing you the best as always, and fascinated as always by your journey!
Pipefish, California Usa
Commander Jesse,
Cape Horn countdown:
Mum and Dad...GO
shore crew...GO
weather Bob...GO
Australia...GO
Tasmania...GO
N. Zealand...GO
UnitedStates..GO
Europe...GO
Sweden...GO
Chile...GO
Canada...GO
Dolphins...GO
Albatross...GO
Silly too...GO
Your entire blogger family...GO
'cleared for Cape Horn captain'
May God Bless you Jessica
lenny Pittsburgh PA.
Susan in Oregon
January 11, 2010 7:13 AM
Now, that's what I'm talkin' about!
I do understand Espanalbatross.
Dear (Hezakiah299) Michael,
Never...you made me laugh so hard I pee'd my pants. :-)) My screen and keyboard are beautifully clean now. All is honkey dorey!
PS... I have a surprise for you...
Have a great day everyone...Sam
Congratulations Jess!!
Wishing you all the Best for the remainder of your journey. Keep up the good work and posts.
I admire the guts you have to pull this one off.
Will keep my fingers crossed for calm seas and steady winds.
Regards
Stefan
01-10-10 @20:39
Hi Jessica,
I know about being patient but these last few days (and NM's) seem to be just creeping along sooooo slooooow.
What a beautiful moment that is going to be when you all meet/see each other at the Cape. I know I'm not going to be there, but I'm proud to be part of this momentous occasion through your Blog.
SaltyDog:
"Jessaholics Anonymous"
For davidverity: A flyby by the Royal Airforce?!!! Unbelievably Fantastic I hope it can be organized.
Richard in Maryland: Thanks for the heads up on Jessica’s pictures, that was great!!!!!
For Kath, Qld: Thank you, I definitely will. I wish Jessica was going around the Cape on Monday, what a day for me to remember.
For GaylePHOENIXAZUSA: and a Happy Birthday to you, I’ll toast to that.
Jessica, I hope the wind picks up for you and you have a safe run thru the Cape. Take good care of yourself and the crew. I’m so proud of you and will never forget 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, I will keep you in my prayers.
Michael (74) from Kingwood, WV
01-10-10 @23:44
Dear Billie & Tom from Waikanae NZ.,
Thank you for the most warm and welcome letter. I will cherish that knowing what beautiful and supportive Grandparents you both are. I can see that (from my years of experience LOL…) Jessica is an extremely special and talented person. I could go on and on with words of praise, but you know her much better than I. It’s just wonderful to see a young girl like Jessica so dedicated in what she wants to do. Going back in her history she proved that she would succeed in her quest by taking on all the sailing opportunities that she came across. I was amazed after reading all the blogs about her, and they were all facts, not fictitious stories about her.
But it is not only myself that sees this, just look at the following she has acquired since she set sail. Young and older people alike. Schoolteachers that use her as a learning tool, individual people that have changed their way of thinking because of her. So many people have said “If a sixteen (16) year old can do it, so can I”. Not just the sailing, but attaining the dedication and the tenacity that she has.
I’m very proud of her, and I know that she will succeed in whatever field she ventures into.
It gave me goose bumps when I read that her Mum and Dad were going to be at the Cape to see her. God Bless Them!!!
My only regret in this whole venture is that I won’t be able to be in Sydney to welcome her home, but I’ll be there in spirit. For sure!!!!!
I better quit now as I could ramble on and on. LOL………
I do feel honored to be able to write this letter to you both.
Once again, thank you for the kind letter, dear friends from over the seas, take care of yourselves, and I will keep you in my prayers.
Michael (75) from Kingwood, WV
TO: DAVID VERITY (SYDNEY) re: ....Royal Air Force in a Typhoon jet fighter. They are resticted to airspace 100miles around the Falklands. A FLYBY IN A TYPHOON JET FIGHTER?!?! WOW! HOW COOL WOULD THAT BE! HOW EXCITING! I SURE WISH I WAS GOING TO BE THERE!
Captain Jessica: This is such an exciting time for you, with your parents watching you 'rounding the Cape, an offer of a flyby near the Falkland Islands from the Royal Air Force - you have to be so excited by it all.
I hope your heater starts working soon. I for sure don't like being cold. Maybe the diesel fuel jelled and will warm up and start to flow again.
HEY, D.J. IN IOWA: A MINUS 23 DEGREES FARENHEIT IS EXACTLY WHY I LEFT IOWA FOR THE SONORAN DESERT! MY BROTHER STILL LIVES IN DES MOINES, AND I FEEL SORRY FOR YOU ALL STILL THERE. WILL YOU GUYS JUST TURN OFF THE LIGHTS WHEN YOU LEAVE?
For the rest of the world in freezing temperatures, I give you all warm thoughts from the Sonoran Desert.
Gayle
Michael (74) from Kingwood, WV
January 11, 2010 5:16 AM
Dear Michael,
You said... "Dear Samurai:
I’m sorry about the spray job on your screen and keyboard, I would gladly clean it up for you if we were closer. You sound a little (maybe even a lot) annoyed, not your usual chipper, bubbly self, everything hokey dokey???".
No wuckin' forries mate! Everything is "hokey dokey" I wasn't the least bit annoyed at all. It was very funny what you said. I'm sure you've experienced it too, when someone says something really funny just as you're having a drink and, in a burst of laughter, whatever you had in your mouth comes spraying out. I guess I didn't explain it too well the first time and it just went straight over your head and you inadvertently took it as me being annoyed about the mess it made on my screen and keyboard. I mean, let's face it, things are bound to sometimes go straight over your head 'cause like you said there's no hair there. Juusst kidding :-))
Boy! I think I managed to get myself off the hook only to just straight back on again. I think I'll shut up now.
Catchya later...Sam
Just amazing what you have achieved.and so exciting!
Lyn
Tasmania
What a wonderful journey you're having. And at such a young age. Well done and all the best for the rest of your sailing. John . NZL
01-11-10 @15:37
Hi Jessica,
Thank you, Thank you, Thank you.
Looks like everything is going well for you, so we’ll have to keep it that way. Yes???…Yes!!! I hope you’re able to stay warm, are you able to duck into the cabin, or do you have to stay on constant watch?
I understand that the RAF is working up a flyover for you. That would be great to see that. All for you.
For Samurai:
You are sooo beautiful, that was fantastic, right down to ‘Ella’s Pink Lady’
Don’t think I’m ungrateful, but you weren’t in there. Sob, Sob!!!!
It’s OK, not to worry, I’ll get over it, sigh,……..somehow.
LOL………Maybe I could copy one of Jessica’s NM flags and superimpose you on it………….ha, ha. Or is that you hugging the globe??? There was many comments on your artistic ability.
I’d suggest you be careful with your laughing, you’ve got it coming out both ends. LOL……..(No trouble here I hope??) Thank You!!!!
For SaltyDog:
Thanks for the kind words and yes I kinda hoped she’d make it on the 11th not that I would ever forget when she does make it. How can I make a contribution to the meeting
Abby might possibly take off on Saturday the 16th, depending on her solo trial run, a one or two day venture. No doubt she’s very excited.
Well Jessica, keep up the good work, you’re doing fine, remember we all have our highs and lows, and we just have to work out of them. You have caused me to stand stronger and pull myself out of the ‘blue funk’ many times, Thank 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, I will keep you in my prayers.
Michael (75) from Kingwood, WV
Hi,Jessica;
Great to hear you are on the move and on your way to the Cape,I can't wait to read and see your video's of the event.
Sure it's frustrating being becalmed,
hope no sea sickness set in!
Make sure your ''Motley Crew'' are being kept busy,you know they will rest when they get that chance.
I continue to be so impressed your young descriptive way's,you have matured beyond your year's.
I was having a thought about the ''flyover'', your Mum and Dad should drop you more ''goodies'',at least some more reading material and MORE CHOCOLATE....
The ''world family'' should get together and do a Banner that reads.....''YOU GO GIRL,THE WORLD FAMILY IS WITH YOU,MUCH LOVE AND SUPPORT'',just an idea.
Happy belated Birthday ''Michael'',75 year's and still young in WV.Should send some ''Fosters '' your way via Maryland.
Molly,you find the other brands of Aussie beer yet?
Anyway,young lady keep the Pink Lady sailing on course,watch for that ''turn signal'' at the Cape,I await with your entire world family for the 13th.Being a day behind you all down under,I hope the weather cools down and the ''fires'' are getting controlled ,my heart felt wishes go out to all of you.
''Samurai''where do you come up with all these comments,you should be a writer,unless you are one,great reading,keep it up as should all of us,I feel like some of you are just around the corner,I guess you all are AROUND THE CORNER OF THIS WORLD OF OURS AND IT'S A BETTER PLACE YOU ARE ALL IN IT...''.
Again young lady stay warm,safe and may God continue to watch you through your adventure of a life time,much LOVE and SUPPORT.
Hugs to you and your crew,think you should be allowed to ''crack a oil can''when you make the Cape,hey Mum and Dad what you say!!!
God speed,oceans keep you safe,
Stephen M.,
Transplanted ''Aussie'',
Maryland .USA.,
p.s.Hey there ''AUS'',is that really your picture in your blog?
Hi Jesse,
I just had to listen to 'Albatross', by Fleetwood Mac, once again. Thinking of you out there !
All the best,
Brian in NY
Hi Jessica hope all is going well and you should be almost at the Cape now......I am thinking that perhaps it will be kind to you and you will wonder what all the fuss was about....praying for fair weather for the rest of the journey......Jessica interested to know if your siblings are interested in sailing, or are you the only one...... what's your favourite food, music, book and apart from sailing what else do you like to do?.......do you have pets at home?....you are one very special young woman, and a role model for all teenagers......we are all cheering you on....sending this "Olde Irish Wish"
May the raindrops fall lighly on your brow.
May the soft winds freshen your spirit,
May the sunshine brighten your heart.
May the burdens of the day rest lightly upon you
And may God enfold you in the mantle of His love.
Safe journey Jessica...sending hugs
Ann (Morwell)
Dear Stephen M.,
Transplanted ''Aussie'',
Maryland .USA.,
January 12, 2010 7:06 AM
You said...
The ''world family'' should get together and do a Banner that reads.....''YOU GO GIRL,THE WORLD FAMILY IS WITH YOU,MUCH LOVE AND SUPPORT''
Well, this is the best I can do for now. Albert Ross is a big help 'though, don't you think?
Sorry I couldn't find a pink flag.
Cheers...Sam
Gidday Jessica
How wonderful, a young woman on a once-in-a-life journey. I applaud all that you're doing. Just saw you on TV, you look terrific. I'll be watching with interest the rest of your journey.
Take care
Esther
Jess,
This is wonderful, i wish I could do that too.
Keep up Jess.
Tram
Greetings from Dar es salaam,Tanzania.
All da best,
Tram.
Great sailing Jessica, keep up the good work,sailing through Cape Horn must have been a relief, your over half way now.
Cheers David & Wendy
Adelaide South Australia.
Hello Jesse,
This is just a short note to stay in touch. Great to see the Albotrosses again: The Pics are Great !!! . . . Wow!!!... How wonderfull your Mum & dad will be over so close to you. Make sure you get some Pics of them flying over.
Anyway, Jesse, as I promised, I am going to Give You an Updated Estimate on when I think you'll arrive back in Sydney Harbour: I was hoping to have that Estimate Update ready to give you by now [you have just recently passed The Cape as I type these Comments to you Blogs of the past few days... It's now 2:19am NSW Time (1:19am QLD Time) on Friday 15th January,2010], but I haven't been feeling well for a few days, and so haven't felt up to doing it; but I'll get that update to you over the weekend. Anyway, Jesse, Yo're still pretty well on schedule to where I expected you to be, .... I don't know if I mentioned it in an earlier Blog Comment, but I suspected that you would pass the Cape around the 14th or 15th, so you have done better than I thought you would. I still think that you will Beat Your Planned Arrival Time.
I'll get back to you over the next couple of days about my latest Estimate.
Have a Safe and Happy Trip, But Most Of All HAVE FUN !!!
" You CAN And WILL Do It Jessica Watson !!! "
NM
xx
Hey Jess,
I've been away for a while so it was really wonderful to read so many posts at once. It's so great what your parents did! Keep up the good work and take care!
Cheers,
Emm
Melbourne
"The very strength that protects the heart from injury is the strength that prevents the heart from enlarging to its intended greatness within. The song of the voice is sweet, but the song of the heart is the pure voice of heaven." Kahlil Gibran
Good mornig Jessica.that is Melbourne time.
Just read about the rough weather. Stay safe and keep your safty line hooked up when out of the cabin. Don't push to hard, you have all the time in the world. nice to see the mile's roll past. thinking of you all the time. The old dude from Melbourne.
Love U XXXXX
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