Still more nice sailing for Ella's Pink Lady and I. Yesterday was particularly great with our speed sitting on an almost constant 7knots all day. The wind has mostly been between 12 and 17knots. Well that's my best guess anyway, because since losing the wind instruments, I've had to resort to the oh so primitive method of looking out the window and at a piece of string tied to the rigging, to determine the wind speed and direction!
These are just the sort of conditions Ella's Pink Lady and I love. Does anyone object if I give Sydney a miss and go around for a second lap?! No, don't worry I wouldn't do that to you. I might still be having the time of my life out here, but there's also things back home that I miss. There's no way that I'd be able to sail past a hot shower and I'm worried that if I'm away much longer I won't be able to recognize my brother, who is apparently getting taller by the minute!
We've also had more of the weird foggy/sunny combination. It seems a bit strange to record 0% cloud cover next to 'very poor' for visibility in the log book. But I do come from Queensland, so fog will probably always be a bit of a novelty to me!
Also you may have noticed that we're heading North East, rather than East again. Bob's got me sailing north some more to avoid a particularly nastily system passing to the south.
It's crazy to think that not so long ago it was a battle to keep warm, particularly my feet, layered in socks and tucked away at the end of my sleeping bag. Now I'm constantly being irritated at being be woken up with hot feet! The fact that a little thing like this is annoying me gives you an idea of how nice things are out here at the moment.
So life goes on as normal out here. Yesterday was a housework (boat-work!) day and there's always the odd bit of maintenance to keep me busy, like tightening the fan belts on the engine and re-taping a few chafe points. I also seem to be able to spend (or waste) a pretty huge amount of time cooking. My powdered egg omelets are steadily getting better but my attempts to change or add to my Easyfood meals are failing miserably, along with most of my other food experiments.
It's a good thing that there's no one else to complain about some of the meals I manage to ruin!
Jesse
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
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345 comments:
1 – 200 of 345 Newer› Newest»Hey Jess,
Normal is good! Keep having the time of your life!
Be Safe,
Mike D
Go Jesse.
Your cheerful approach to every challenge is inspiring.
Andrew RQYS
Well done Jessica, whats your Sydney ETA now?
Go Jesse,
Your cheerful approach to every challenge is inspiring.
Andrew RQYS
Hicapt jesse.been anxious to read your blog since day one,got pretty worried for you as you neared the horn but knew you were in good hands.It must drive you mad to be in a small boat sorrounded by ocean.I left a message of congrats for abby sunderland,as my brother is american and my great,great uncle was a confederate colonel but we are dyed in the wool aussi,suggested you and she message each other,you could give her some tips.I dont think I could say anything that has not been said by fellow admirers,except to add dont give me reason to panic anymore (Fathers with daughters tend to do that even if they are not their daughters) take care and I hope that Neptune holds you and abby in the palm of his hand and is not too rough with you.
Glad you're enjoying the easy conditions, Keep well, stay safe.
Paul
Hervey Bay QLD
Hi Jessica,
Well I doubt the meals are actually ruined. I too used to experiment in the kitchen. My trick was to make others eat my experiments (less waste and less for me to "enjoy"), just tell the stuffy crew that it is the crew meal for the day.
Glad you are having smooth weather. The trip does seem to be going fast. I'm savoring the posts now because I know it won't last.
I bet you won't have to recognize your brother. He'll be the one giving you a huge hug in a heartbeat after mooring.
Take care and enjoy,
L.G., Seattle, USA
Jessica, I just started watching your voyage and I'm already captured by your courage and good spirits so many days away from home. Hope you continue to have a safe and successful journey. From Florida in the States. God bless and good speed!
hi Jesse
Good to hear you are having some great sailing conditions out there in the Atlantic Ocean. How is your fishing going? Have you got some bait or lure or whatever you need to catch the blighters? Keep up the good work, you will be home before you know it. I don't know about other people, but if you want to go around again for another spin of the globe, then go for it!!!
Kevin in Launceston, TASMANIA
Jessica,
So pleased to hear things are going along so well. Sitting here in the office I am completely envious of you following your dreams and doing such a lovely job of sharing it with us.
Best of luch with the remaining nm's before you pass Africa - we are all looking forward to your return and celebrating your achievements.
Beth (Sydney)
Hi Jessica and Friends,
Glad here you doing well. I have just completed diving the world famous ship wreck of Thistlegorm in the Red Sea and visited the Pyramids in Giza today. I leave Egypt tomorrow for Thailand for more adventure, diving and maybe sailing. Thanks again for your inspiration to get of my back side and start living again. You da girl Jesse.
John formally of Alicante Spain now the world.
Ey Jess
Happy Groundhog Day!
Yes there's nothing worst than sweaty feet... Keep them cool :)
On ya sailorette you are doing awesome. Stay safe!
From Perth
hi Jessica, pleased your enjoying the nice weather, and catching up on cooking skills. Safe sailing. buddy & marie. riverina
Great update! Enjoy that weather while it lasts!
Following you from Southern California!
Ed from True Men Ministries
hellow jessica greetings from Michigan USA: Its pretty amazing how different the conditions become week after week. I often wonder how my moods would change if I were alone under those conditions? Your blog is allowing me to be wonderfully entertained in the theatre of my mind. Any how,enjoy every moment it will be over before you know it. Looking forward to reading your book when its published. Stay Safe and
God Bless
Say hey to you Ms Jesse,
your comments are always the best...hope you've been enjoting the full moon and all that comes with it...
sometimes it's great to have to rely on the natural verses the instruments...to become one with your surroundings...
your descriptions of even the very little things are 'the best'!!
no doubt about it...your books gonna be a "best" seller for sure..
keep journaling everyday...
especially your take/perspective on things, it isn't just the miles under your keel that are important but the transforming of you as well
you for sure
are one delightful, tough 'cookie'
mark n adino, vicksburg,mississippi USA
Nice to hear you are getting warmed up. The Southern Ocean will be cooling you off soon. I'm sure you will be glad to be home, but when you get there you will miss the voyage. best wishes, duane
Those powdered egg omelettes taste MUCH better with a dash of Tabasco Sauce! Hope you brought some with you! Enjoy the good times!
What a life!!! School is back here today and i have just stopped at the Lake by my home to watch the local school kids learning to sail in the smallest little yacht there is.( I havn't a clue what it's called) First day back....what a fun day.
"Learn to sail" travel around with a big truck and a few little yachts, to teach kids, who will never have the opportunity, to learn.
I am sure you will have inspired some of these future sailors..
They were having a ball...
Well I checked the S Atlantic forecast on http://metvuw.com upon seeing your post and Bob looks to be onto something. Ever hear the USA Boy Scout motto? "Be prepared!" - but I don't have to tell you that!
The utmost respect, admiration and best wishes of thousands are with you.
Sail on.
First to comment on your blog, yiipee. You´re a hero.
Greetings from Iceland up north.
Gisli
Glad it's plain sailing at the moment Jess - some time to unwind!!
Any more luck fishing??
Marilynne Ashmore
Skip'Ohoy.Captain Jessica.Nice to see that everything is well and steady going.When I.m looking at the World map about your position I'm happy to see that all the small red sailboats are beginning to come togeter from both side of the map.G-d speed and all the best.From:Herman.Hampstead.NH.USA.
Hello Jesse.
First to comment on your blog now, yiipee. You´re a hero.
Greetings from little Iceland up north.
Gisli
Hi Jesse,
I just want to let you know that my wife and I are watching your progress every day, and you are in our prayers. We're so thankful that you came through the knockdowns as well as you did. You are, indeed, One Tough Cookie. You are mature beyond your years and a good example to other young men and women your age, showing what can be done with determination and courage, combined with skill, patience, and good judgment. The world needs more like you.
Rich
I enjoy checking in to see where you are each day and learning what you have been up to. You are pretty amazing as I have a sixteen year old daughter of my own. Can't believe the progress you are making and taking it all in stride. You go girl!
Mother in Utah (expat. from Qld)
Aaaaah what a nice post, Captain Jesse!
So few (big) events and such a long and interesting and witty and exhilarating report! Thanks in heaps!
Progressing well is good news. Pushing more north looks very very wise (well done, Bob). I am sorry to read about the wind instruments, I thought the storm had spared part of them, I guess I misread.
Give Sydney a miss and go for a second lap might have been an idea, oif you hand't your crew. Chick with Atiitude has a dental appointment in Sydney in May, and can't afford missing it. So, your duty is to take her there first. You will also have the Jessaholic Festival there, and remember your agent signed for you as the Guest Star. Eventually, your Mum may need you for some baby sitting on Saturday night, May 8th, too... You see there are many reasons for stopping there. Oh, and maybe you might be short of food, too!
I don't say I wouldn't like to see you, instead of flying East to the Indian Ocean, heading frankly North and come to Europe. The Seine river is quite wide and deep enough for Ella's Pink Lady to go up to Paris, and seeing her anchored at the feet of the Eiffel Tower would be a feast. Well, some other year, maybe!
There are some good restaurants around, I know one especially, close to the Tower, with a vanilla cold soufflé with salted caramel hot sauce... yummy, I wish I could take you there!
From what you say, I see you are doing all the cooking yourself now? But what is Chick doing? Ooooh I am afraid that her teeth are aching so hard that she can't do her job any longer? That's terrible. See, you really have to stop in Sydney.
About the weather, i wondered about the sunny-foggy combination, and found that the appropriate word should be "soggy". Why? Because the other combination makes "funny", and that doesn't suit well for the situation, does it?
Go on, beloved Captain, go on toward Australia.
Sydney is waiting for you with open arms,
thousands are waiting for you with open hearts,
Queensland is waiting you with open skies,
your family is waiting for you with open doors...
and the world is waiting for you with open eyes!!!
Sail well, surf soft and fast.
You go, champion!
You couldn't miss Sydney Jesse, think of how long it took them to blow up the balloons. I see you will be writing a book, so I will expect to see you promoting it on Graham Norton (try to avoid the flip-seat), and Oprah (get her before she retires) and David Letterman (get him before he gets retired). Get into the States with it and why - you could be as big as Susan Boyle.
You're doing a fine job out there, you may even get to wave at some South African landlubbers. Catch a fish, can't beat fresh fish
David
Hi Jessica
So glad you are experiencing some “plain sailing” ! Amazing how one can guess the wind strength just from experience.
Can just picture you and Pink Lady calmly reflecting on the cold and nasties of the past and just enjoying the moment. You and the lady have indeed become one … you must know her every creak and groan as she talks to you.
Great that your shore team are giving good advice on your bearing. They are doing an amazing job.
Just wanted to pop in and say we are all happy things are going well for you! Keep on having fun.
Fay from the Gold Coast
Isn't it nice to have such good weather and sailing at the moment. You can't complain at 7 knots. Good to see Bob has you going around the system this time!! I'm sure you didn't take much convincing even if its less direct to the cape.
Your spirit is inspiring Jessica I'd vote for you to miss Sydney - and head for Wellignton!! I'm sure we could sort a Welcome of equal proportions here!! We (Wellington) wouldn't be too popular with the Watson family though would we!
Steve (Wellington)
Hi Jesse,
It is great hearing from you. You write so wonderfully well it makes us feel we are out there with you.
You are certainly making good progress and I am certainly glad that Bob is taking you away from more nasty storm cells.
I do not think you will need second lap just now. Perhaps in a few years you may want to do it again and then again maybe not!!!
Keep enjoying yourself out there and make the most of it as your life will be a little different when you get home :-)
Take care and keep safe,
rob
Ingleburn NSW
Morning Jess-
Good that you have easy cruising, though the 'drama on the high seas' makes for good stories. I was going to suggest a straight second lap, but figured best to let you come up with that yourself!!
I bet you don't miss flies or mosquitoes out there hey, though if there are any, I don't envy you!! Have a nice day, duTch
Hi Jesse,
I can hear it now. You are back home, and someone who does not know about you asks, "How did you spend your summer?"
You answer, "Well, I taught myself French cooking while sailing around the world. I'm writing up the cookbook now. Should I put you down for a copy?"
Happy sailing, and more blogging please.
Robert Bernecky
Mystic CT USA
Jessica, Every day I marvel at your journey. Thanks for keeping all of us in the loop. kind regards - Sue (Sydney)
2nd lap?? You are too funny Jesse!! Actually, to be honest I wouldn't mind (other than sometimes I worry about you) because I LOVE your blog posts. You have really turned into a very entertaining writer and I have so much fun reading about your amazing adventure. By the way, congrats on the upcoming book! I'm going to be in Australia in March and I'm hoping one of my new friends will send me a couple copies when it comes out in August. Take care and have fun!
Ken in San Diego, CA, USA
Hi Jessica,
Don't you dare miss Sydney! Good to hear all is going along nicely. You still haven't mentioned whether you have tried fishing lately. That would add a whole new dimension to your menu...some nice fresh fish. Cheers for now, seems like you are out there having a fantastic time while making history. Safe sailing
Oh Dear One, great blog today, very funny. Have been reading everyday, I check regularly for updates. Have a safe night... John, Plano, TX
Ted Kennedy Jr’s remarks:
During the summer months, when I was growing up, my father would arrive late in the afternoon from Washington on Fridays and as soon as he got to Cape Cod he would want to go straight out and practice sailing maneuvers on the Victura in anticipation of that weekend’s races. And we’d be out late and the sun would be setting and family dinner would be getting cold and we’d still be out there practicing our jibes and our spinnaker sets long after everyone else had gone ashore.
Well, one night, not another boat in sight on the summer sea and I asked him, ‘Why are we always the last ones on the water?’
‘Teddy,’ he said, ‘You see, most of the other sailors that we race against are smarter and more talented than we are, but the reason that we are going to win is that we will work harder than them and we will be better prepared.’
Jesse, I am sure that story brings back memories from not too many years ago.
It is all in the preparation as you know.
Keep up the good work.
E&C
Hi Jess,
Here I am after school with one of my students (he's waiting for his big sister who is at a play audition). Anyway, Jake was just wondering if you were scared when EPL turned completely up-side down?
I just held him up-side down and shook him around a little to try and simulate your hurricane... he thought it was fun, but admitted that perhaps it could be a little scary too!
@ Faye & Max... Jake says, "The Killer Whales and I are in grade 2!"
@ Bluefin (Annie)... Thank you for your kind thoughts. It is easy to get the students imaginations going when we are following such an inspiring young lady as Jessica! Jake says, "Today we did a great job decorating our Victoria Loonie cans!" By the way, thanks for pointing out "Rio The Homework Dog"... maybe the class and I will send "room 401" an e-mail tomorrow!
Well, that's all for today. Have fun with your cooking experiments and keep on sailing,
Paul
(and the Killer Whales)
A good thing having such fair weather, Skipper. Now I didn't know you had lost your wind instruments, though after that storm losing only that seems lucky. Does it harm your navigational efforts or do Parker and GPS suffice for the job? Well, old-timers made it home with far less gizmos, but it's a pity anyway.
About that second lap, letting alone what your parents have to say (very loudly, maybe) about it, you must consider that, although you're so young you can afford it, most of us, your adoptive relatives, aren't. We're already (or we're becoming) frail old people with ailing hearts that probably would not live up to the effort. So, we're sorry, but go home and get straight into that shower, and we'll discuss it later.
Sounds too parental, heh? But you're growing and changing by the minute too, and if you won't be able to recognize your brother, don't be surprised if most people close to you find you changed in a way hard to describe. It's called maturity, and it comes with hardship endured.
Climate is getting funy all around the world, so your conditions aren't too weird; but take care about poor visibility as you enter maritime traffic lanes, we worry on that a lot. We all hope you can avoid another storm for a while and once again congratulate Bob and the whole shore team for the grat work they're doing. Enjoy the good times, they charge us up for the testing ones.
And maybe you'll turnout a great packed-meal cook someday; maybe not. But being the great person you are, who cares? No one is perfect. Big hug from southeast Brazil!
Hey Jesse,
Another great blog to give us an insight into your world! Thank you for taking us all along for the ride - I hope writing your blog isn't a chore!
How about you set us a challenge of coming up with an interesting meal from the ingredients you have available - I'm sure there must be some great cooks on this blog who would be able to make a 3 course meal out of 4 ingredients - one of which is powdered egg!
Have a great day!
JJ
xx
Haha, good to hear you're doing great. Needless to say I got so much respect for you, for doing something like this, to go after your dreams. I wish I could do something I'd dreamt of someday. But we'll see, I've still got a life ahead of me.
Good luck Australian girl, good luck.
It is great that you are experiencing sailing in the Atlantic from a variety of perspectives. Our hope for you is that you do steer away from the storms and stay safe.
God Bless you Dear Jessica
Dear Jessica.... I think I am close to the first responder this time... yippee....
Congrats on "business (sailing) as usual". Sooooo happy to hear that you are looking after the 'little things'.... as you know I have hounded you about them from day one... as those little things cause the big problems....
Sooo, what is the latest with the wind instruments? Not fixable? Hope you get them fixed... and I know you can do it.... especially with the help of your great ground crew....
Well... we had hot beef stew tonight in your honor... wanting you to know that we are trying to acknowledge your quest for eating well and experimenting... keep being vigilant of the small details... work to get everything back in order after the big "blow"... you still have a long way to go, but it will be shorter than the start of the voyage... keep us posted... we get worried when there is NOT a blog from you... and your ground crew really sucks (sorry... but true) about keeping us posted while you are away on your duties and thus missing to blog us.... so scold them for us!
All our best!
Grandpa Jerry, South Carolina, USA
Hi Jessica
7 knots all day!
Heading North again sounds like a call to me.
You have a remarkable following
... just what you and EPL deserve.
Reading their entries is often something very special.
I have just re read your spell binding account of the 4 knock downs! (24 January Blog).
WOW.
Hopefully you won’t experience that again, but do
Take Care.
Best Wishes
Addicted
Bruce
Sydney Australia
Hi Jessica,
There it is!!!!
A "piece of string tied to the rigging, to determine the wind speed and direction!" That's what i used on my little dinghy all those years ago.
Just a bit different to you though, I just went round in triangles, lol.
Keep experimenting, especially with those breakfasts.
☺☺☺ Hoo Roo ☺☺☺
Nice to hear you are making good progress.
Remember to stay safe even in good conditions.
Make the most of these times; you'll remember them always.
Hello Captain Jessica,
I love "the string tied to the rigging" ....I think a lot of us learned the basics of sailing that way....whatever works to get you to that hot shower and mom's home cooking. By the way ...what would you like as your first meal when you arrive in Sydney?
You sound in great spirits and Bob is masterfully steering EPL out of harm's way.
Stay busy....be safe.
Thinking of you young lady,
john
Bay of Quinte, Lake Ontario, Canada
PS Best wishes to all your family.
Isn't it amazing how fickle we are... when it's cold we wonder when it's going to get warmer, and as soon as it's slightly too warm, we wish for cooler days.
Often during my day, I think... that girl's still out there... sailing along.
Press on towards the goal.
Cheers
Mark [Adelaide]
Sounds like you're having a blast out there Jess...
The time you've been gone has just flown past and yes, pop in for a quick shower and catch up before you do lap 2..
Ajay
Capitán Jessica Inspiración Watson, buenos vientos para ti.
Quito ecuador
G'Day Jesse,
You seem to be in good cheer with EPL moving along nicely.There must be rule of thumb tricks to get a good idea of your wind speed. Of course you could cheat and use the GPS speed read out and what angle you are to the wind direction.
A bit of trig and you have it.
Also just another reminder to click,click and more clicks for phots and video video.
One can never take enough - also hope you are clipping on even in calm conditions.
Meantime, Enjoy!!! Enjoy!!
Sail safe,
breath in the negative ions.
Poppa Bear
CAIRNS
QLD
Hello Commodore Watson:
Great to hear about the sailing conditions. Sorry to hear that you are forced to use 'primitive' methods for sailing. It sounds like you are using creative problem solving !!!
Take Care stay safe...
Did you hear Abbey is heading back to port??
All the Best.
Bob and Family from Denver CO USA
Those basic sailing skills always come in handy. As for cooking, as long as your aren't hungry, good for you.
sail safe.
Sounds like you are into a regular routine, and enjoying the little pleasures in life.
AFter reading in your blog about Abby Sunderland, I started to follow her blog. She is having some power difficulties and is headed into Cabo San Lucas for repairs and battery energy. Keep chugging along Jessica.
Sandi in VA USA
The fact that you seem unfazed by the loss of your wind instrumentation just goes to show how complete your skills really are! I have a serious question though; how to do you make powdered eggs taste good????
Jessica
What would Pipi do about traveling some more? Yes she would take a hot shower get some chocolates and sail the other way, just to prove a point "That Girls rule"
No you have book to write and a year of school to 'ketchup on' along with taking your master's course and pass that test!!
Well it looks like better time have come to you at this point. The water is still cold to cool your feet down.So we will hear from you later Pipi.
OH BTW you have grown a lot also, maybe not in height but in better other ways.
LUVS
Robert San Diego CA
Good afternoon Jesse
It's great to hear that you are in great spirits! Your blog was really chirpy and lovely to read during my busy day at the office. Shhh!! I am meant to be working.
Good to hear that the weather is with you and that you are moving along nicely.
Love the 'primitive' method that you have for checking wind speed and direction. No doubt this will do you fine - especially when you have Bob in the background steering you in the right direction. You make us proud Jesse.
Don't you dare sail straight past Sydney or we will come and get you! Although I will miss my daily fix of Jesse's travels when you do return, you and your amazing voyage have become part of my daily life now. As you have mentioned - think of all those little luxuries that you are missing. The lure of a hot shower and fresh chocolate will bring you back to shore.
Good luck with the cooking experiments, it's great when you can hide the not so successful attempts. I've had quite a few of those in my lifetime.
It's raining in Sydney today so it's not so bad being at work. Started back teaching dancing last night and I'm feeling the pain in my aching muscles today. It was great fun though and so good to catch up with my students again. They have all grown so much - just like your brother I imagine Jesse!
Anyway back to work again...Hope you are having a lovely day and stay safe.
'All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them' Walt Disney
'The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams' Eleanor Roosevelt
"Ability has no gender" Sara Henderson
Sally In Sydney
Hi Jess, my triplet 6 year olds w(and often my crew on my 35 foot boat), want to know how you make powdered eggs taste good???? They'll go out overnight again if you can solve this problem!!!
RichieParis - You are such a CUTIE! I LOVE reading your blogs. How we are going to miss them in a couple of months time!
Sail on Jessica.
Fay from the Gold Coast
Hi Jess, I follow your progress each day and you really have silenced your critics. As a 67 yr Amateur sailor you amaze me with your composure and determination. Terrific.
Will you pass the African Capes ( Good Hope + Agulhas)well offshore or close in. The western Cape is beautiful - one of my favourites and worth a look see!
Keep in the groove
David, Willow Vale, NSW Australia
cool ! i thought i was alone with hot foot cold foot too cold can't sleep too hot can't sleep ! but esp. keep your head warm even if it look stupid you are smart !
So cool that the weather has allowed you the chance to even 'complain' a bit..tells me you're feeling back to normal..(whatever that is in your foggy Sunshiny days..)
I was telling my coworkers all about the journey after the Horn, and how it sorta caught you by surprise..and how EPL was down mast in the water at least four times, and about your shimmy up the mast to do the Preventative Maintenance on the Block..that..of course failed anyway..and gave you headaches..and not a few bruises..which hopefully you are healed of now. Someone asked if you were still keeping up with school out there and I said yes..as near as one can while being shot from port to starboard and to aft and forward..in otherwards yes..you've been getting quite an education..!! Your pictures of Albatross I shared with the C of O Alumni- (When I went it was called College Of The School Of The Ozarks, but now its just College Of The Ozarks)..someone asked if we're related and I just laughed..well lets say she just adopted us as we did her..but its been a mutual voyage.
Someone else asked if you were fishing and I said you had tried some more but you've been pretty busy..and I didn't know whether you had caught anymore or not. I texted my neice Molly and shes 16 as well and told her 'Jessica is on the way home past halfway and also halfway to Africa'..she texted back"'Wow! That's Awesome!! She's going to make it!!" So you see my little avenues telling folks about you and every one else thats blogging telling..what can I say..you're becoming well known..!! We're proud of what you have accomplished you know. You're pretty special..I know your Mom & Dad and siblings know that..but I just wanted to say it..
I hope you've enjoyed the bits and pieces from Tania's journey that I 'read' to you from 'Maiden Voyage'-I know you mentioned that you've been put off from reading books yourself about sailing but..you didn't say you were tired of hearing our thoughts.
Be Blessed and Sleep well Miss Jess..G'Night..and sweet sailing...may the gloom of fog lift soon and the diamonds shine against the velvet sky..
"Psalm 119:54 "Your statutes have been my songs in the house of my pilgrimage..I remember your name in the night..O Lord." Psalm 107: "..Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble and He delivered them out of their distresses."
Gary & Jan
Savannah,Ga
Good morning Jess,
What a nice relaxed message from you today, I don’t think you would get much discouragement from your fans if you kept on going as we are enjoying every minute and every mile of it, however many of us are looking forward to the spectacle of your entry to Sydney Harbour (it’ll be huge).
You say Life goes on as normal out there for you, but not for many of us here. Our lives are being changed (by this brave young woman sailing around the world) in all so many ways (thankyou).
I notice you have plenty of time for cooking but no mention of school work; I guess you really did lose it somewhere.
You say your brother might not be recognizable when you get back, but your brother might not recognize the woman arriving home on Ella’s Pink Lady, me thinks.
Hopefully the loss of your wind instruments won’t cause too many problems when things get rough again, although it sounds like Bob is doing an excellent job of keeping you out of harm’s way.
Thanks for your posting,
Ron, Brisbane.
Good to hear all is going well, getting along at 7 knots is great. Glad we're not the only ones in the heat too haha.
Dan, Brisbane
Hi Jesse,
It must be nice to have a settled routine for a while. I know you like excitement, but some of the goings on of the past few weeks were maybe a bit over the top!
Glad to hear your feet are too hot. I used to go camping in the Western United States alot when I was younger, and know how miserable it is to have cold feet. If it gets cold again, maybe there is something you could heat up on your stove, put in a towel and use as a foot warmer. You probably don't have a hot water bottle, that would have worked as well.
On doing the extra lap around the world. Sounds like you are feeling at peace with the sea. Here is a quote from Bernard Moitessier the great French sailer that I just read in his book "A Sea Vagabond's World".
"The days follow one another, never monotonous. Even when they seem exactly the same, they never quite are. And that's what gives life at sea its particular dimension, made up of contemplation and very small, special moments.
Sea, winds, calms, sun, clouds, birds, dolphins.
The peace and joy of living in harmony with the universe"
Enjoy this time of your life, may you have many more like it!
Richard W
Maryland
Hi Jessica,
Good to hear that things are going well for you, be careful with everything you do.
Regards Niels.
Learning lots from your website Jess.....you guys got groundhog day down under????
Hello Pipi again
While you are at home, before you start out on sailing the Northwest Passage, you can start doing the cooking at home and I bet there is at least one professional cook that will be glad to help you with expanding your cooking talents.enjoy the good weather as you are still in the last of summer and going into the Autumn season.
Robert San Diego Ca
Hi Jesse,
Thanks for the cheery update, like all good jessaholics I have been checking for the latest word from you. Good to hear all obs normal, and you will hopefully be able to miss the bad weather. Too bad about losing the wind instruments, keep your eye on that string...don't miss Australia!!!
As always, stay safe, keep smiling...word verification is tiveho!!!
Bron Central West NSW
Day 107..I just moved the stick pin on the world map a bit more north and closer to Africa (in accord with your pink boat...) But theres still plenty of Blue and you are doing Great! And yes I can imagine it has become exciting to realise you're closer to Home than on New Years..which I must say did vanish like so much dust. Its hard to believe the year is 1/12th over...But Spring time is coming..I'm already seeing Blue birds and Cardinals.
Your posts are always so much fun to read. :).
Your cooking reminds me of myself :).
BUT you are out there for sailing not cooking and on sailing you are doing a marvelous job.
Roman
Way to go Jesse, good to hear you are well and lapping it up.
Stay safe
Mick
Bonjour Jessica & Ella's Pink Lady,
'Does anyone object if I give Sydney a miss and go around for a second lap?!'
Yes, all of us who planned on taking private dinghy sailing lessons with you!:-)
Which probably means that you wouldn't be able to go for another lap before 2020 or so. :-)
No more cupcakes? :-)
Enjoy, be safe.
Your Met. man Bob is doing a great job as are the others of your team. A little out of the way is better than running into real bad weather. You just take advantage of all the steady wind and the odd bit of sunshine. Up here we can put on all the extra socks for you as there is lots of snow on the ground here. In fact fairly high drifts in places. Just think how lucky you are being out there and not trudging through big drifts of snow and, of course, having to shovel the stuff. You are well ahead of schedule so dodging that system will not delay you too much. Keep safe, smooth sailing and eat well. Best wishes, as always.
Russ/Calgary
Hi Jess from Cooroy.
It is such a joy to read your blogs. You are always so positive even when the going gets tough.
What an inspiration you are to people of all ages.
You are always in my thoughts and prayers.
Margie.
Living in Arizona I have learned that there is no such word as too warm.
Glad you are cruising at 7 knots. Is there anyway to rig a windsock? better than a string. Or can the wind instruments be fixed?
thoroughly enjoying your blogs. You have guts girl, Me I like my feet on terra firma.
Stay safe and warm
Jim
Arizona
Hi Jess,
If you decide to do a second lap I'd be happy to jump on board & be your house (boat) cleaner.....that way you could actually kick back & enjoy the second lap!! he he
Enjoy the good conditions. I will look forward to reading your next blog!
Best wishes
Jen - Victoria, Australia
Jess you are always happy and enjoying your time. Good to see the housework being done as well. You have to stop at Sydney. We will all relax then and be so happy to see you home safe. Take care, be safe.
Keith & Anne, Hervey Bay.
Hi Jess
Glad you are going well. I am sure that you are counting down the days until home. you seem to be such a happy go lucky lass - so couragous and so young.
take care & safe sailing girl.
love you
Vijay
Hey Jess,
Good to hear that everything is running smoothly. It made me chuckle about the cooking, no one to complain too!!
Keep Ella's Pink Lady traveling safely to Sydney full speed ahead!!!
Stay safe, have fun & happy sailing
Haven't heard you talking much about getting your school work done lately! :) If you have a commitment to have it all done by the time you get back, no time to start crackin' the books open while the seas are calm.
Jeff from Indiana, USA
Hi Jessica
You soon forget the bad weather when you get weather like you have at the moment Jesse, 12 to 17knots of wind and 7knots of boat speed, can't get any better than this.
When I said in a earlier blog that you should try to break Jon Sanders 3 laps around the world non-stop, I was only kidding, but it would kept all of us entertained for alot longer though. But we all can't wait for the day when you cross the line at Sydney, going to one hell of a party.
Is there any chance of repairing your wind instrument? did you carry any spares?
I think you have been doing a fantastic job on the cooking front, you have very limited cooking equipment, no fridge and can't just pop down to the shops when you need something. But I'm sure when you get home, your mum would not dare serve you up a powdered egg meal.
So get back into that house work (boatwork), get all those maintenance jobs out of the way, keep having fun and KEEP SAFE.
Cheers George Simmons
Lots of love
Exmouth WA Australia
@ Mark... thank you for the site (http://metvuw.com)
looks like back to back nasties...
Hey, Jesse!!... no mention of taking advantage of the quite times to go aloft again for a rig check???
Well, it sounds like a very pleasant day out there on Ella's Island! Thanks for the reference to the log book--that answers that question!
Oops--Hubby's home--time to get that food on the table. I'm not much of a cook even when NOT on a boat, so I'm sure your meals have the ones I give poor Don beat!
hi Jess
Always so nice to hear from you, or should I say, it's always a relief! Of course, you and EPL have a proven track record of being more than capable of handling adverse conditions .. and I should simply stop worrying! But maybe I'm not 'anxious' any more, just (hate to admit it), a Jessaholic! lol
As always, enjoy and keep safe :)
Cazz, Syd.
Ahoy Jesse,
'tis good to hear you back in your old groove with warm feet, moderate winds, and experimental cooking.
The old "yarn in the wind" trick can suffice as a wind instrument. Here in the states we call them "tell tails" and I had an 8-year-old on my boat once who called them "tattle tales!"
Speaking for myself and, perhaps the whole assembly of adoptive grandparents: YOU ARE FORBIDDEN TO TAKE A SECOND LAP.
We're struggling to stay alive long enough to see you finish this one. You are so cool. Stay safe.
Fair Winds
Richard Lathrop
Hi Jess
You are an inspiration. I reckon everyone is now hoping for you to complete the BIG LAP!. Go champ!!!
Bryan
Hello Jesse,
What a lovely blog, I really enjoyed that. Even when you describe "simple" things you paint a very vivid picture. You make the most of every moment. I doubt you are ever bored because you realise that even simple chores have an important purpose and contribute greatly to keeping everything shipshape and orderly - which keeps you in control of situations that are both expected and unexpected.
I also greatly admire your ability to see beauty in your surroundings and to take the positive message from your experiences and not dwell on the negatives. You are only 16 years old but you have the innate ability to teach and to pass these messages on the the rest of us.
Happy sailing Jesse,
Bluefin (Annie) Buderim, Queensland.
Following you every day from Cambodia - with admiration and respect - all the best!
02-01-10 @ 21:59
Hi Jessica,
Thanks for the post, I’ve been looking forward to this, I know it’s only been a few days, I shouldn’t hound the computer so much, it makes it seem longer.
Glad to see that you're sailing at a steady speed, nicely cruising along, enjoying the breeze blowing thru your hair. I like the improvisation of the wind instruments, a piece of string, where did you ever pick up that little piece of info. Very nicely done.
Now, I just want you to know that I would be behind you 100% should you decide to take a second lap but, you would hear the sound of my heart breaking all the way to Australia. (almost 10,000 miles) LOL....
If it’s any consolation, I think that the closer you get to Sydney, the more anxious you'll be to arrive. Yes, yes, yes, I’m trying to convince you that that’s the way it is.
You’ll see changes in all of your family, as they will see changes in you. Six to seven months in a young person can make a big difference in their height, weight and physical appearance.
Good on Bob for taking you around a nasty system, you've definitely proved yourself in the rough and bumpy stuff.
So you'll be going north of Edinburgh, there's a Volcano there "Tristan da Cunho Volcano". Don't let them scallywags out there to upset it.
You know the old saying about if your nose itches your going to get into a fight or, if your hand itches you’re going to get some money? I wonder what hot feet means,….you need to travel…or… let’s get moving. LOL….I don’t know!!!!
I had to laugh at your “Life goes on as normal out here”. Water, water all around you, and that’s normal??? To a landlubber that would sound strange but to someone who loves the sea and the solitude, then it would be normal, nothing wrong with that. But I know what you mean as far as your ‘boat-work’ goes. As you say there’s always a little bit of preventive maintenance to perform, which I’m glad to see you’re staying up on.(Should I dare mention schoolwork. OK, I didn't)
As far as the cooking goes, it sounds to me that you need a couple of Mum’s good home cooked meals, another reason not to take a second lap.Yeah, that's another good reason. Lol….
Oh, Jessica, Jessica, Jessica, what a fantastic young lady you are, I’m looking forward to reading your book to see all the things that weren’t mentioned in the posts that you wrote. I know how well you can detail a situation and make it sound so much more exciting than someone just saying, “The wind was blowing”.
I have to go now, but I’ll be back.
So, so proud of you.
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
Hey there Jess, I hope you're well.
You're doing a great job peeling off those nauti-miles. Ordinarily, I would say something like, "A 7knot average is better than a slap on the back with a wet fish" but don't feel it's too appropritate now because I'd really love for you to catch another fish, so good luck with that. Maybe your crew can have a go to make it up to you for their lack of excitement about your new t-shirt.
Ha, funny you should mention going round for a second lap. I thought that myself a couple of days ago when I tried to imagine what your arrival home will be like. I was out on the water when we won the America's Cup here in Fremantle back in 1983 and it was pretty specky then and I'm predicting it will be just as, if not more spectacular, on the day you sail back into Sydney Harbour in May. If I were in your shoes I would probably give the Harbour a wide berth and just keep going. That's hypopathetically (or should I say, hyper...) speaking, of course. :-))
I hope you continue to enjoy every moment, normal or otherwise, out there. You're making excellent progress and doing great work with the running maintenance as well as getting on with the normal, daily activities of a life afloat.
Take good care of yourself, keep up the D+F's, stay safe and focused and bye for now...(Aunty) Sam XX
Sally,
This is Mr Bigalow. I don't believe reading a blog is part of your job description. What blog are you looking at?
Sally: Jesse Watson, the intrepid sailor girl. She's baking muffins.
Mr Bigalow: In that case, I can make an exception. I am also a devoted Jesse-o-holic.
Mr Bigalow CEO
IMPCO
Sydney
Dearest Jess,
Wanting to take another lap around the globe says it all!!! YOU ROCK!
Socks on, socks off, some dishes getting better, some not, reading strings blowing in the wind, or dropping vertically.....it's all okay.
Knowing your brother is growing taller by the day is great reason to stop in at Sydney for an indescribable reunion.
May you continue to have the safest sailing and the time of your life.
xoxo Mary, Maine, USA
Jesse,
A New Yorker who has been vicariously sharing your progress. Your a daily inspiration for all of us with that desire for adventure.
Bill B
Hi Jessica,
You sound as if you are having a ball in this type of weather,as well as missing the finer niceties of a long hot shower.
Good that you are using the sailors wind speed indicator, that are attached to most sails for the skipper to read the wind in the sails from the helm, way to go.
Just can't keep a good woman out of the kitchen, one day some person is going to be lucky to have you do the cooking, but only if it is done on a gimbal stove,:-) :-)
Measuring a 160nm path on the trip map is a new one for a while, really nice boat speed.
Safe Passage,will talk later.
Brian
Hervey Bay,QLD.
Hi Jessie!
You add yet another great blog to your growing list, winning hearts around the world with your spunk and determination, shared with clarity and charming wit.
You might consider writing more than just a book or two, given the way you observe so well and weave your tales with immediacy and compelling wonder.
As for cooking, the words of Whinston Churchill pop to mind: "Never give up! Never give up! Never, never, never, never give up!"
But of course... that seems to be a motto you have already taken to heart.
Via con Dios, and sail on...
Hi Jesse,
You are sailing along nicely. Thanks to Bob and the Team for keeping Jesse out of harm's way and getting her to change her direction a little.
What about that crew of yours? What do they have to say about your food Jesse? They don't seem to grizzle too much so they must think that you're an okay cook. I guess your storage hold where you keep all your food is slowly dwindling down. You'll certainly look forward to a few home cooked meals when you get home and I can guess who'll be cooking. IT WON'T BE JESSE WILL IT???????!!!!!! :-)
I'm pleased that you're enjoying some warmer weather. It's amazing how quickly the temperature has changed. It must be strange experiencing summer, winter and then summer again within a few weeks of each other.
Well my dear must sign off and get dinner ready for my lovely family. Do take care, keep safe and keep enjoying. Big hugs from Jan Pace (Auckland, New Zealand)
PS - Jesse you are an awesome blogger. Thanks for keeping in touch with everyone. I'M ALSO SO HAPPY THAT YOU ARE WRITING A BOOK. I'LL CERTAINLY BE BUYING ONE AND CAN'T WAIT TO READ IT.
Hi Jess!
Everyone in Australia is so proud of you and we can't wait to hear the news of your safe return!
All the best!
Hi Jess you sound so happy,i love reading your blog you are so upbeat,and positive.
Try and stay clear of that nasty weather.
Janet
Excuse me Jess, I just spotted this and couldn't help myself...
John formally of Alicante Spain now the world.
February 2, 2010 10:41 AM
Hello John, best of luck for your future travels. I once joined a crew of 5 on the delivery of a 78' sloop from Phuket, Thailand to Alicante, Spain. I was on the boat for the best part of 8 months as we stopped off at different ports along the way. It sounds like you will be going back over the same path I took and I wish you all the very best.
I have a blog called Voyage Art in tribute to Jessica which you'll find at http://www.jessicawatsonsvoyageart.blogspot.com
It would be nice to see you there and perhaps we can stay in touch and talk about diving and other stuff.
Take care and bye for now...Sam
Hey Jess fair weather to you!!! but you can keep the powdered eggs!! for me I had a good ol' fry up with real eggs at one of my favourite eateries in Melbourne this morning, just after finishing a night shift! Just thought I'd throw that one in about proper food in case you did think of continuing passed Sydney but somehow I think that is where you are headed.Great to read the team are there with you every step of the way and have redirected you away from that nasty weather pattern you mention.Take care Jess!!!
Melbourne
Hi Jess,
Our class at Enfield PS have been learning about heroes from Beowulf to Charles Kingsford Smith.
We think you are a modern day hero and really brave for your journey. We were wondering if you have seen any whales or Great White sharks? Also we were wondering if you recycle your tins of food?
We hope that you beat Jessie Martins record! Be safe and good luck.
From 3/4L Enfield PS.
Hiya, Jess,
One more time around for me and my comments:
I LOVE your posts Richie Paris! Are you a published author?? You have the greatest imagination, and that's an understatement.
Roger quoted Winston Churchill and I think I will, too:
This is not the end,
It is not even the beginning of the end
But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning.
Group hug for Jess and sweet dreams all!
Mary, Maine, USA
Go around again Jesse - Go around again. At least it will delay our withdrawal symptoms for another 6 months or so. Well done on your improvising.
Sail on dear girl and stay safe.
Go-Girl-Go.
Love from Faye and Max (Mulgrave Vic)
Hi Jess,
Enjoyed your blog today. Although nothing much appears to be happening barring tidying up and routine maintenance, you make it sound so interesting for the rest of us.
Its amazing how you have taken the loss of wind instruments in your stride and resorted to an alternative that is rudimentary and "best guess" at best.
It calls to mind my navigation endorsement - no GPS, no navaids. All I had was a map, the forecast and a navigation "whizz wheel" (this is a slide rule to determine a variety of basic information when flying cross country).
I had to plot a course on the map, correct for magnetic deviation, correct for wind and mark various points on my route for radio calls etc. All this was fine but when I got up in the air, it hit me like a brick wall. It took all my resolve and concentration not to get lost and yet multi task in the cockpit. This gives me a good understanding of how important it is to master the art of manual navigation as a fall back should there be an instrument failure. Good on you Jess- full marks !
I'm glad Bob has DV8'd you around the weather and hopefully you will sustain your current speed without too many dramas.
Cheers
Jonathan
Melbourne
Jesse,
Great job keeping positive and writing such an informative narrative. Love it. I know when I'm sailing I look forward to a nice bubble bath. Hope you have a wonderful sail and arrive safely. Lisa in so.cal.
Hi Jessica
I enjoyed reading your latest “Life goes on …..” blog. It is beautifully written, and I agree completely with the comment written by “Bluefin” (12.56pm).
Sam has decided you must catch another fish sometime between now and your arrival in Sydney, and I think she may disown you if you don’t. Aaauuuuccckkk. I think that’s Espinalbatross for something! Probably ‘don’t come home until you do’!
Back to serious stuff. I presume you either didn’t carry spare masthead wind instrument parts, or you have not yet been able to don dawky hat and ascend the mast again to repair or replace what is left up there. That means, I think, that your autopilot no longer has ‘steer to wind’ capability.
Oh well, you have already improvised with back to reality string to provide apparent wind direction so I guess you will find more ways to improvise as you go along, and typically of you, will regard this as a temporary inconvenience that can be overcome. You could string Big Ted up and measure wind speed according to the angle he flies along behind you.
90° down = no wind, 45° down = 35knots, horizontal = 70knots, etc.
Continue to enjoy your ‘normal’ life flying along purposefully and I hope you clear the developing storm system as comfortably a s possible.
Tony L (Mt Martha VIC)
Hi Jesse,
It seems you are having a great time out there with conditions that suit you and Ella's Pink Lady right down to the ground - pardon - "water".
You have been averaging a pretty good and consistent speed for quite while now and it is so good that you have time to think, rest and relax a bit.
Keep on wonder girl you are going great.
@ AlbacoreLiaFail.
(Patricia, Richard, John, border collie pup and three cats.)
I have twigged that Albacore is the stable your vessel comes from but to me Mia Fail is such a melodic name I have been wondering about its meaning or origin.
Love reading all the posts and drinking in the great atmosphere created here in support of Jesse.
Cheers Bob 25 mins due west of Noosa.
Jessica,good to hear that your boatspeed around 7knots, and you are being able to enjoy some warmer weather!Great opportunity to catch up on the things that need doing,EPL is proving totally reliable,as you knew she would be!stay focused,and alert Jesse drive EPL along,and keep on enjoying the ride!Godbless & Godspeed you are in our prayers, Dougal
Jess, we are the lucky ones back here, being treated to your blog entries - total delight.
nice to know you are in good spirits
cheers
Tia
Monday, Feb.1st 11:30 PM (EST)
Hey, Jesse!
So glad to hear that you're going to be able head north and avoid that bad weather that's pushing your way! Wise, calculated, move! My hat's off to you, and to Bob, for wanting to take precautions and stay as safe as you can be, whenever that is possible!! Thanks, team, for keeping a step ahead of the bad weather!
Have been wondering what your temperatures are like now. Haven't heard recently just how much it's warmed up, other than your remark about your feet getting too hot. Better hot, than getting "cold feet" since that has a totally different connotation! By the way, doesn't your sleeping bag unzip from both the top and the bottom, if so, just unzip and stick those pretty pink polished toes out the end to keep them cool. (I don't imagine that you've actually been able to reapply your pink nail polish while at sea.)
I like to think of you as the Pink Energizer (Battery) Bunny, beating his drum and "Keeps on goin' . . . and goin' . . . and goin' ! Or their new ad, that says "Never give up! Never give in! Keep going!" And, of course there's always the Timex ad, from years ago, that said: "Takes a lickin' and keeps on tickin' " . . . tickin' off the miles, that is, in your case!!!
Someday, in the not too distant future, we'll see you in magazine ads, Jesse, that remind us all of your own steadfastness and staying-power!!! Wonderful qualities for anyone, but an absolutely amazing quality for one of such tender years! Sometimes it's hard to remember that you are only 16 years old, since you are so capable in so many, many, ways!
I had to laugh at the "picture" I got when you described the little string tied onto ELP's rigging, to gauge the wind direction. . . what with all your high tech equipment onboard. And don't forget, Jesse, if you lose the string, you can always wet your finger and hold it up in the air to find out which way the wind is blowing too!!
I'm sure with all your other knowledge you also know everything there is to know about knot-tying, so there won't really be any danger of that little string coming undone, and blowing away.
You still have almost half of your trip left to perfect your cooking skills, and I can't imagine any possible scenario where you don't succeed at whatever you attempt, including in EPL's galley. I just hope you'll be very careful while using your stove!!! Bon Appetite!!!
Good night, Jesse, stay clipped on at all times, and rest assured that you are being thought about, and prayed for, and being sent loving and encouraging wishes 24/7!!
And, you still, never fail to inspire!!!!!!
Carol Florida U.S.A.
Hi Jess, this is my first time at blogging, so here goes. We here at Mooloolaba Marina follow your journey every day and I update the map in Murray's office, so we are right there along with you. Keep going girl, you are doing absolutely great and we are all so very very proud of you.
Love to you and the furry ones
Betty and Kiehl
@ Richie Paris
I shed tears and swing to laughter every time I read your posts. Your latest (Feb 2, 10.52 pm) is a good example.
When I first went to high school in a city of NSW I was learning French and enjoying it. I had got to the stage of being able to answer the question - "Do you have a pencil?" - with "No, but my Aunt has two white mice!"
At the end of first term my family moved to a rural area where French would not likely be required.
All I am left with is admiration for those who have second, and more, languages. You astonish and entertain me with your puzzles and familiarity with English. Bravo!
Cheers, Bob from 25 mins due west of Noosa.
Good to see Bob's on the job, we don't want to see you knocked down again, Onya Bob.
Smiling at the reference to bad cooking, imagining those failures going over the side and the fish fleeing in shock from them.
Can't be that bad surely ^_^
Sail on Jessica, Sydney's getting closer, and a home cooked meal lovingly prepared by your mum, and I'm sure it's going to be nothing like what you have on board. Almost willing to bet you're longing for some fresh tucker.
Wonder what your mum's got planned?
Kevmeister / Perth
Thanks, Jessica.
Keep flying along
Luv u
Richard (QLD)
Hi Jessee, yes give Sydney a miss and just come straight home to the sunny coast. God speed Jess, Maxine and Colin Maroochydore
Tony L (Mt Martha VIC)
February 2, 2010 2:13 PM
"Sam has decided you must catch another fish sometime between now and your arrival in Sydney, and I think she may disown you if you don’t. Aaauuuuccckkk. I think that’s Espinalbatross for something! Probably ‘don’t come home until you do’!"
Hey Tony, please read the caption and try not to put words in my espanalbatross' mouth. :-))
DISOWN JESSICA??!!....NEVER!!!
hey jess.... found you through abby's website. she is a boat neighbour of mine in marina del rey, california. as a sailor since i am a baby, i am completely blown away by your courage and determination, as i know what challenges you guys can meet out there. i am having a hard time managing to wrap my mind around how your mind copes with it all, especially your recent knockdowns. what an inspiration you are.
be safe!
Hi Jess, great to hear you are making good time and continue upbeat. At your present course you may soon run into Tristan da Cunha Island ... are you planning to come close? Your video and thoughts about sailing past Sydney remind us about another famous single-hander in the 70's (French sailor) who shocked the world when he sailed past the finish line and then turned around for another circumnavigation ... read his book but always wondered what kind of natural forces are at work down there when sailing alone in the Southern Ocean ... to influence anyone do even dream such a thing. Please stay sharp and continue to have FUN!
Lincoln - US Gulf Coast
G'day Jess
Tuesday afternoon and a cancellation so I thought I'd see how you are going. Wonderful to see you are so positive, you reckon your cooking is crook..ask my wife about mine!!!!! I do a rotten BBQ according to my family...eveything is black. So housework not school work good to see plenty of time for that when you return to land..really. Too many people want to complete their education in a hurry and they usually fail or crack up as a result..true. I see it all the time. Mature students have better pass rates and you with your adventure behind you will fall nicely into that category. Enjoy the sailing/adventure/experience while you can. So,to other bloggers I am NOT a teacher and never have been so there!
Sea ya Jess
Dusty from Dubbo
You go girl! Excellent!
Jesse!
When I read that you wondered if anyone would object if you passed by Sydney, and took a second lap . . . I heard a loud "gasp" . . . going 'round the globe by all your family, friends, and fans!!!! We've been holding our breath as it is, and will only let it out completely once you are safely back in your home port of Sydney!!!
Glad that it turned out you were only kidding! (and, when we read that, we all let out a collective "sigh of relief"!)
It's a good sign that you're enjoying yourself so much that you would even joke about it . . . I hope that all your World-Wide Family have been of some real company for you, and that, somehow, we've helped you to not feel so alone out there!!
Love and Hugs,
Carol Florida U.S.A.
I suspect soon after arriving home you will answer to the call of other adventures that don't see you sailing a second continuous leg. Although you may take a break from sailing, you are too comfortable at sea to be away long. It is in your blood, like that of an ancient mariner.
Enjoy the period of relative calm, it's good to have this kind of opportunity to reflect among the purest of environments.
Fair sailing Jessica, Mirrabooka watches over you
Hi Jess,
Another lap? Sounds wonderful to me! Lets go! Haha, I'm so glad your life is a bit more peaceful at the moment. As always, I feel like I am out there with you.
Seattle, WA
Hello out there Jessica! Glad to see things are going well for you. I really felt deprived to not have access to your blog for over a week but I thought about you every day and trusted you had everything under control.
It is very good to be back in the loop, to catch up on your latest writings, and to read all the encouraging comments from your world-wide family. I feel we are all finding a certain satisfaction in being able to share your adventure online. Perhaps, maybe certainly, there are or will be, many who will be inspired to set out to conquer some personal goal because you have shared your amazing dream with us. I love it that you are down-to-earth, that you open your heart to us, and that you are just plain 'real'. Don't ever change --you are a gem!
Keep heading eastward, precious one! Remember the goal - to sail safely into Sydney Harbor, and always --SAFETY FIRST.
We love you!
YOU GO GIRL!
Hugs and prayers,
Janell in Oklahoma, USA
Hi Jesse I haven't been able to post for a few days and I was really pleased to see you have written twice since then. Good to see things have settled enough for you to get some jobs done and rest and enjoy the sunshine!!
If you think you might not recognise your brother once you are home again, imagine the change in you your whole family will notice!! How wonderful the reunion will be after being at sea for so long!! I bet you don't get any sleep that first night!!
But that's a ways off yet so keep enjoying the journey and take care 'til next time.
Jo
Sydney
Capt Cookie
If you stay on the northerlie course, we would welcome you to Canada, and the snow. Halifax wind chill in the morning will be minus 30 Celsius.
Dave Canada 020532Z
Hi Jesse
Glad to hear from you. Your wittism of not stopping at Sydney and going around again certainly has stirred a few comments. Albeit we will all miss our daily fix of Jess's witty comments we do want you home safe.
You cooking experiments reminded me of a time when I was first married and was experimenting with cooking sponges and oatmeal biscuits. We had a german shepherd and I gave my failed attempts at cooking to her to eat but the little horror buried them in the garden and when my husband was digging over the garden he dug them up and found out my secret rock hard sponges and concrete biscuits.
Enjoy the fair weather and cook up a storm in case of foul weather in preparation.
Take care Pet
Love and hugs
Evie from Bendigo
Ps; They have arrested 2 teenagers and charged them with alledgedly starting the Black Saturday fires here in Bendigo that 1 man died and 61 houses were lost. The boys are 14 and 15. The anniversary of Black Saturday is nearly on us so it might gives us all a bit of closure here in Bendigo but not in Marysville and Sea Lake were the worst of the fires were.
HAWKEYE
Hi Jesse - I almost fell asleep reading your blog. Don't get me wrong I'm just suggesting that it appears all so peaceful out there falling asleep is maybe a good option; but as you pointed out there are chores to be done and a few cooking lessons to be had by all accounts. Can I suggest you go fishing again and see what you can come up with. You maybe lucky enough to be able to change the diet for a couple of meals.
Glad to know you are traveling a little further north because we don't want any more hassles particularly another 'knockdown'. It's reassuring your support group is looking out for you every inch of the way. I can assure you, it saves ware and tare on my worry beards and keeps the Jess-Stress meter in its cage.
Sorry about the feet darl but look after them because they are likely to come in handy when you dock in Sydney; because there is no way you are going around again - well not until I've been through an adequate period of emotional rehab.
Anyway darl stay in good spirits; it's good for the soul and also you will enjoy the rest of the trip even more. Stay safe darl and think safety first. 'til next time precious one be happy and God Bless you darl.
HAWKEYE
Jesse
Thanks for the update!!!
Mark
From a beginner lady sailor just wanted to say that what you are doing is fantastic. Respect girlfriend. Sending you good vibes for the rest of your journey.
Leah T.
Brisbane QLD
Wow!!! they have "tell tails" (tell tales) in the USA...
Who would have thunk it?
How did we ever win the cup off them?!?!?
Hey Sam
The caption says "Fish Dreaming", so I did but I'm not sure who was dreaming - Jess, the albatross, Big Ted, you or all of the above.
Now you have really drawn attention to it!
Tony L (Mt Martha VIC)
take care and enjoy....
Jessica,
Sounds like you’re getting some nice sailing conditions, other than the pesky fog. Sorry to hear that you’ve lost your wind instruments. Will the loss of the wind instruments affect your electric autopilot if you happen to need it again? Sorry, I didn’t mean to insult you Parker, but you might want a little break again. PassageWeather does show some nasty looking weather heading in your direction. Hope it slides right past you, Jess.
Is it time for a little fishing, again? I like the idea of a hand line off of the stern. Like Barry Clements has suggested, you essentially set it and forget it. Low maintenance fishing. If you had a snubber or a piece of surgical tubing, you could use that where you secure it to the boat as a shock absorber. We used to call it our “whiskey line” when I was commercial fishing and you’d be surprised how well it did. Watch out fish, here comes Jess.
Have fun, stay safe and happy sailing.
From Seattle, WA, USA
SaltyDog
Keep going Jessica.
Haha go for 2nds!!!
Just remember, you're in the history books now. Onya Jess!!!
Reece M - Sydney
Hi Jessica: It is good to hear that you are doing well..your blog sounds relaxed and I hope you do miss the nasty stuff...
Your powdered egg story reminds me of my Army times..not such great food...
Take care...stay alert and stay safe...
Joe Springfield VA USA
Having read Bernard Moitessier's book I can understand how lone sailors sometimes just keep on sailing.
We'll be keeping a close watch on you as you come around the bottom of Australia. hah hah.
Enjoy
dugie
caloundra.
Jesse,
Great to read about your fascinating adventure.
You deserve some smoooth sailing and long may it continue.
May the dolphins keep an eye on you and travel safely.
Noel H.
Now you true sailing abilities are really coming through Jess, by sailing w/o your wind instrument. Thats real cool, well done, also in your ability to service EPL and its engine. Sail on Jess, sail on, never give up.
The Oz coast awaits you.
Bruce Watt
Rosebud (Vic)
Aussieland.
Hi Jess, have loved every minute of your adventure and like so many of your fans I've followed your every move from day 1. Took a look at your route map this afternoon and you're but a mere 2cm off the Cape ... gosh, you'll make that in no time ... in fact, by this time next week I reckon you'll be saying hi to the warm waters of the Indian Ocean ... homeward bound!!
Great to see your update Jesse.
Keep going and I hope you can skirt the bad weather........three cheers for Bob.
And by the way, you can go around again but you must hop off at Sydney or do not collect your $200 ......(I've been playing too much Monopoly.)
Stay safe,
KDWYHAD
Dave and Una Brisbane...Aust
Cooeee Jesse!
Great as always to read your news.
You'd better not go round twice ... there's people going to Sydney from all over to welcome you home! :)
Besides, your Mum and Dad would probably throttle you! Haha! Afterall missy, you are just 16 and are on a curfew! lol
Futhermore, us parents with much loved child / children away from our shores, don't count the days, we count the minutes until your return!
So no prolonging yours, ok??!! :)
Big bushfires in SA today and we've been blanketed in smoke which looked like a duststorm!
So you "out there" have fog, we here have smog, smoke and whatever else is in the air today.
I'd trade your fog over this stuff anyday!
Continue to enjoy the ride, Jesse.
Fair winds and smooth seas!
Cheers from Soldier's Mum in SA.
Hi Jess,
I think if you tried to bypass Sydney you'd find quite a few people coming after you in all sorts of sailing vessels, from huge motorboats to surfboards :).
Glad the weather is being kind to you.
Gee those powdered eggs sound a bit 'icky', but I'm sure you're doing a great job of trying to make something tasty out of them.
Another excellent post Jess, really enjoyed it :).
Stay safe.X.
Hallo Jessica Watson
Bist ein Mutiges Mädchen
Dein T-Shirt macht Dich einfach Schön
Bist Bald in Kap der Guten Hoffnung
Bestimmt Schönes Wetter und Sonne
und eine Gute Heimfahrt
GrĂĽĂźe von Markus aus Germany
You are going great guns Jesse, keep on sailing girl. I have watched your progress since the start, but this is the first time I have sent you a message. You are amazing.
Hey Jess,
Go straight past and go round again i dare you, no i double dare you.
Stay safe
Berlin Red
Dear Jesse, glad things are going smoothley and your only worry is hot feet. You'll be home before you know it, and probably will wish to be back at sea once the throngs of well wishers clog Sydney harbour. Godspeed and safe passage next cape, wishing you the best. Off to tape a few chafe points of my own, but we won't go there haha!
Pipefish, California Usa
Hi Jesse,
I'm happy to hear that you're having easy sailing conditions at the moment.
emgb1 from South Wales, UK,(GMT+0)
Hey Jesse
Ive been away on an inportant family long weekend....and pretty much got Lackofjesseitis....lol.
But i got home and had several wonderful posts to read.
Now i recon your mum hid that tough cookie tshirt for a time when it would be really appropriate...almost like she had a premonition that you would face rough seas just before you opened that food bag!!!
Sounds like the seas are treating you really well for now though.
Lets hope it lasts for some time to come.
How old is your brother? He must be going thru a growth spurt....will he be next to take to the seas???
Anyway....was really good to get home and be able to read what you have been up to.
Keep up the good work, keep having fun and stay safe.
Deb and the Guineas
PS seems Abby Sunderland is having a few problems with her batteries and other Boat items....you might get to hold onto your record a little longer... Smile
Glad you are enjoying it Jessica. - Dave, NZ
There is a lot of weather south of you. As ever it is good to see your team are on the case and keeping you safe. Enjoy your sailing.
Peter and Robyn (UK)
Dear Jesse,
Glad to hear it is calm still. Sail safely!
Dora and Rachel
Gday Jessica.
I've always admired, Naomi James. A young lass who grew up in the farmlands of new zealand in the late 70s. She too took on the great oceans in which you are now in....a faboulous read!.....as are your blogs...I look forward to reading in greater detail, your thoughts and feelings in your book! One tough cookie indeed.
All the best Dion
Perth Western Australia
Hello again Jess.
Hey! By all means, go around again if you want. Might as well break two records while your at it. lol
It's good to have some time to relax a little and warm up after your cold weather adventure isn't it? Your comment about the weather reminds me of where I live in the south western dessert of the US. Here it is not unusual for it to rain while the sun is shining.
Anyway, keep up the speed and stay away from those storms. You'll be home in no time.
DeWitt
Hi Jesse,
Glad everything is going smoothly for you and that Bob is sending you around bad weather. Thanks Bob.
I am not sure your parents would want you to make a second lap of the world although I don't know what we will all do when you reach Sydney because you have become so much part of our lives.
Hope things continue to go well.
Keep safe,
Joy
Ballarat.
Hi Jessica, Glad your Sense of Humour is still in tact! :)
Cooking? no worries.....just eat what ever you can find... :)
Lots of rain in Queensland, even
Charleville had a big Drop.
Sail on little silver one.
Lesley
Hi mighty one!
It would be great to have a map showing your progress during the world travel!
Can anyone tell if she already passed by Brazil? Or if she is stopping by?
You are in my prays! Wish you ALL THE BEST!!!
Gabriel.
Hi Jess, Just love to hear that sailing is NICE and steady to keep you heading home but also giving you time to enjoy a some niceties of life again. mmm, its like taking a nice breath. Keep heading towards Oz!!! Take care girl.
hugs Michelle and Tibor coffs Harbour
Hi Jess
Cooking is not my strong point so I understand where you are coming from!
All is good in Wellington, the sun is shining again and it looks like my friend Mike will be swimming Cook Strait on Saturday. He has received a few calls from the media as when he does it he will be the oldest man and they seem to like the fact that he will be wearing leopard print speedos (I bought him those) and eating honey sandwiches! Anyway, all sounds great with you - long may it stay that way!
Kirsten
Jesse
How you goin mate. the report on the menu prompts me to ask if you tried the fishing method I suggested a couple of weeks back.
Just throw a baited hook out back without a sinker or with a small amount of weight to keep the line down enough so the birds don't get hooked up (not sure what albatross tastes like) LOL.
By having a surface fishing line you are very likely to pick up a surface feeding fish such as mackerel. a lot of the oily (big on Omega 3), fast swimming fish chase schools of bait fish on the surface so you may pick one up.
If bait is an issue try any feathery lures or silver lures you have in the Jesse going fishing box. several types of tuna are in the South Atlantic at different times of year. (I'm not sure about their roster / breeding seasons)
If you get something just cut the flesh into strips and marinade in lemon, lime or vinegar. throw in some onion, chilli etc for variety.
The acid in citrus and vinegar cooks the fish fairly quick but you can leave it longer if you want flavour from the additions of onion etc.
It won't hurt to throw in a couple of lines at different depths and tie them off to the rail if it's a heavy breaking strain line like 30kg plus.
Have a play with different amounts of lead and see how you go. you do have the time and it may reward you with a treat.
By the way, I loved the shirt and looking at you in the photo it looks like the dehydrated grub isn't hurting you.
You just look so healthy and happy being where you are. the look on your face tells us you are in a happy place. just where super sailors like to be. "AT SEA"
Have a great time on the fringes of the storm and build on those miles.
Good luck with the angling and hope to hear news of seafood on the table in your next blog.
Cheers Barry
Bribie Island
Hi Jess,
so now we are to frolicking with them eggs...
keep up them dodgers,
Jony the Pony
Thankyou Mr Bigalow
You are a kind and considerate CEO for making an exception on my Jessica blogging during working hours! Can't help myself.
Keep up the good work Mr Bigalow - now can discuss a payrise as well??!!
Cheers
Sally In Sydney
hey jesse
what foods are you looking forward to eating when you get home? Fresh fruit? un-melty chocolate?
Katherine xo
Hee jesse,
Good to hear that you have great time with fun sailing out there. How are you doing with the fishing these days? This might give you a nice opportunity to get some real fresh food.
Happy sailing, It´s great fun following your blog.
Hi Jessica, I see you are approaching Tristan da Cunha. It's a place I have a bit of interest in, and know how inhospitable the sea is around that area. Maybe you will talk by radio to the islanders, as you pass by. It is the most isolated inhabited island on the planet so that means you are pretty much as far away from civilisation as you can get on the high seas.
Keep up the good spirits, you are a star and going SO very well.
kind regards from Waikato. Pam.
Dear Jessica,
It's a delight to read your news every time. It's like everyone who read it easy can imagine being in the boat with you.
Had to laugh about your cold and hot feet. Yesterday was it so cold in my bed so I put socks on and wrapped myself in a blanket, and on top of that a down quilt. I woke up in the middle of the night with very hot feet, which I hate, so off with it.
It's interesting to hear about your doings.
Any fish yet?
The sun is out just now and the temp. is only -6C.
I will go for a long walk today, and you are with me in my thoughts.
Enjoy it out there and keep smiling Jessica.
Safe sailing.
Regards
Ingrid, Tyreso, Sweden
Eat well, sleep well, be well, sailin's swell!
Hey Jess,
Very proud of you, both Robyn and I (Bob) just watch your webpage every night, we are now Empty Nesters and enjoying having a "new daughter" sailing out there ... lol
The Brydens of Lara, Victoria
Hi Jess
Great to hear you so laid back and happy. Warmth does wonderful things in the well-being stakes!
I used to use tell tails on our little 18' trailer sailor. It was called "Non Stop" when we bought it but "Non-Start" later when it sat looking forlornly at us as it waited patiently on its trailor in front of our house. EPL is much luckier both in action and skippering.
Keep away from that foul weather.
Cheers
Mike (Avoca Beach)
Hi Jesse
Great to hear you are a happy sailor today.
Also that you have.......
MMMMMMmmmmm Warm feet.
...........................................................
..........oOOO(_)......(_)OOOo......................
........../.^...^.\......./.^...^.\......................
..........\....v.../.......\....v../....................
..........|.......|.........|......|......................
..........|.......|.........|......|......................
...........\____/...........\___/......................
OOOps Now maybe too warm...Kick off the covers quick!
You have been very lucky to enjoy a break
from nasty weather for a while.
Happy feet...happy sailor
Sally in Melbourne By the Bay
Hi Jessica and everyone!
People are asking about ETA Sydney, so I will publish the latest forecast based on my Excel sheet.
I planned to release one after the Greenwich passage, but I can't wait so here an extra forecast comes.
And Jessica:
I absolutely love your enthusiasm.
I like reading blogs from long-distance adventures, like sailing, bicycling, running, canoeing etc.
Sailing does not cause as much physical fatigue as the other sports, but on the other hand, to do a 6-7 month adventure completely alone (luckily you have a phone and internet) cause a lot of psychological pressure.
I can't think I have encountered someone who is so positive during the period between 50 to 80 % of the adventure. Even if there are good conditions right now.
And I like your joke (is it a joke?) about a second lap!
10-feb Longitude zero 40°00S 0°00W
19-feb Cape Good Hope 34°21S 18°28E
23-mar Longitude ninety 40°00S 90°00E
04-apr Cape Leeuwin 34°22S 115°08E
19-apr SE Tasmania 43°42S 147°48E
25-apr Sydney 33°51S 151°12E
This is one day later than the previous forecast.
As said before I take no responsibility for airplane tickets, if they have to be rebooked.
By the way I have made a forecast for Abby Sunderland. It shows July 12, but that’s more of a guess, and she must go faster than she did the first week, and the stop must not last long time.
Ben Larsson, Gothenburg, Sweden
(Weather here: more snow has come, some traffic problems, although we use winter tyres so we can handle snow. Temperature -1C. Usually we don’t have much snow but this winter has been different. Luckily we have houses with working heating)
Hi Captain Watson; I think you are having way to much fun out there. There aught to be a law! Actually I was wondering, in light of Abby's electrical problems, if you could enlighten your followers as to your own power situation. Are your charging systems keeping up with your power consumption? Have you ever had to run your Yanmar to top up your batteries? Love your solution for the wind gauge. All the best, Alfred
Vancouver, Canada
Hello Jessica,
sounds positively idyllic out there! You're in the PINK!!!!!!
Perfect sailing weather, avoiding storms thanks to Bob!
I'm certain your family are glad you are joking about giving Sydney a miss and saling around again!
But of course there are solo sailors who have gone around several times!
Saito is on his 8th solo round the world!
Great that you keep busy with doing things you like doing..........like cooking experiments!
Don't get too good at it, or else you might end up chef at home!!!!
Hot feet?? Are they covered with sheets at night?
Get a bucket of water and bathe them, they should cool down.
Still, better warm than cold, don't you think?
With assessing the wind speed and direction you are back to the good old days!!! :-)
The Cape of Good Hope is getting closer!
Keep well, happy and above all else keep safe,
Trudy, Austria/Australia
hi Jissika...u should head off to French cooking school when u get home...just like Meryl Streep...u can cook up a huge noss l8a on...who cares u will be rich and famous....u can even marry into money...or for good old fashioned love...but theres plenty of time 4 that right now u r the flava of the month so keep it up Jezzika..lol Bernie...ps.another great post...
Doing 7 knots in 12 to 17 knots of air as you fly across the South Atlantic . . . no wonder you joke about going for a second lap. ;-)
Sounds ideal. You've earned it.
Congratulations on the book deal. Talk about getting off to a great start in life: Solo round the world, come home and write a book, and then catch your breathe while you see what feels like the next fun thing to do in life.
- Grant Fjermedal, Seattle
We can make a deal - if you promise to carry on blogging after you reach Sydney, then you don't have to do the second lap :-)
Maybe the home support team can organize a waterproof Blog-PC as it sounds like you will be in the hot shower most of the time when you get back.
Bernard99
Hi Jess,
keep up them dodgers,
Jony the Pony
Go Jesse! The feeling of sleeping barefoot after having to rug up through winter is always a nice change so make the most of it!!
At least you have a good excuse for your meal disasters. I have the full range of supermarket products at my disposal, along with a kitchen that doesn't move around in the wind, and I still manage to create some incredible disasters!
02-02-10 @ 05:08
Hi Jessica,
Just read an article about giant squids invading California beaches,
the squids weigh up to 60 pounds each, but most tip the scales somewhere between 20 and 40 pounds. And, yes, they squirt ink when irritated. Aren’t you glad they weren’t jumping into your boat back when you had that squid invasion. Hahaaaa!!
And how are you doing today?
You sounded real chipper in your post today, sounded real happy, that’s nice to see. Don’t want you getting bummed out and feeling down. With the sun shining and some smooth sailing, and hopefully them scallywags are behaving, what more can you ask for? Ahhhh, yes, more chocolate. OK.
You are definitely a brave and courageous person, not many 16 year olds (and some older people, like myself) could handle that sort of a venture.
And you maintain such a positive attitude. How can people not be proud of you?
Glad to see them little pink flags scooting across the map, your getting close to Edinburgh. I figure you’ve got about 400 to 500nms to go to that Island, shoot, maybe you’re already there.
Have you tried your luck at fishing? That’s amazing that you only caught one fish in that great big ocean. They must be avoiding you on purpose, ya think?
Take good care of yourself and the crew, be cautious and have fun.
I’m very proud of you, and hope to meet you some day, ya never know.
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
hey Jessica, just to comment your cocking experiences, or better `adventures`,- take care not to waste to much foodstuff by the need to through it away ´cause it comes to be inedible :):)
I think it fair enough that you´ve some quite days by just enjoying
sailing. Its not really neccesary
to sail alone plus freezing especialy on your feet.
Take care, remember your own sentence " live your dream "
Many regards from Germany, yours Marcus
Good to hear things are going great out there for you Jessica, and you're enjoying it all. Marvellous having blogs etc to keep you company and in touch with the humans. I'll just go and check your boat position. Keep away from that nasty weather. Happy sailing. Erica from Brisbane
Jess,
Have you been trying to fish lately ?
I'm still thinking about your 4 knock downs; that is wild
Richie Rich (San Jose, USA)
Just checked out the NASA infra-red satellite shots and I can see why you're heading NE. It doesn't sound like a few more days at sea overall is going to worry you - to the contrary by the sounds of it. It will be exhilarating and a bit weird I guess when you get back to land. More than half way across the Atlantic. A long way to go, but already seems like when it's done it will be strangely over too soon. Fortunately the only time I've been on a yacht at sea was with someone who could make a tin of peppercorns, spaghetti and condensed milk taste like gourmet food. Still, God bless fresh eggs I say! Keep doin it right.
cheers
MikeC
Wollongong
Hi Jesse,
Way 2 girl and bring EPL home safe n sound.
Just enjoy your time as it will go so fast.
Stay Safe
Anthony N QLD OZ
Hi Jessica,
I am really enjoying following you as you travel across the vast oceans. How do the stars look at night? That must be just about as dark as it can get out there! All the best for the rest of your amazing trip!
Julie H
Wandiligong, VIC
Jessica, Jessica, Jessica!
It is patently obvious that you have fallen head over heals in love with the sea! There is no doubt in my mind that you will be doing another trip around the globe but hopefully not for a few years, until get your education and Masters license behind you. Then you will be able to savour the time with a lot of stops to indulge and enjoy the various cultures that will be encountered.
I have friends in Hervey Bay who spent 12 wonderful years living on a boat like yours, where they raised and home schooled their children.
With your drive, determination and sheer "Tough Cookie", there is nothing to hold you back from reaching for the stars. The world is your oyster!!
You have certainly learned a lesson about which side to sail the highs and lows. Unfortunately, they can travel at 40-60 knots and overtake you quicker than you can think or plan for them. Thus your baptism. I pray that there will not be any more of that stuff but you must still be prepared and ever ready for such an event.
As I and others have said, ad nauseum, stay clipped, stay safe even in the best of weather, stay vigilant and keep tough, you tough little cookie you!
I admire your female instinct in the galley. Since your so adventuresome, how about some salmon cakes or salmon patties? Not sure how powdered eggs and milk would go but a bit of baking powder should fluff them up a bit. If no canned salmon or tuna, just chop up some left over fish from your fish dinner. Hint, hint.
Where are those bloody fish?? Your probably going a bit too fast for them at 7 knots. You might have to train some of those dolphin to pitch a few up into the cockpit!
I am perplexed that we have not heard a word about the efforts of the manufacturer of your heater, to help you get that bloody thing lit. It is high time we heard from them as your little pinkies are going to need warmth when you get into the Southern Ocean. It would also help to keep you and your cabin dried out.
Soldier on Jess, we all love you and keep you in our prayers.
Cobrarog in Hervey Bay
Well done, you are doing great! Best wishes from Maggie Island
Hey Jesse,
so good to see Bob's keeping ya outa the real nasty stuff. Don't wanna go thru that again...for me I mean lol
When I'm out playing golf I often throw up a few blades of grass to get the wind direction only there isn't much of the green stuff over here at the moment...sooo dry! Hope you're able to get your wind instruments working again.
Ha ha I'm always sticking my feet out the end of the bed, good circulation I guess. Must be nice not to layer up to the hilt.
Enjoy the idyllic sailing while it lasts Captain J and take care out there.
Ben (Qld)
Hi Jess
You are simply inspirational. Such a cool and mature head you have there. Please keep the updates coming - always look forward to checking in on your great adventure. Stay safe and have fun.
Wayne G
Hey Jessica
Hi from Alice Springs in the desert...well, we feel like we have a little bit of ocean here with us because it RAINED and our dry river bed flowed. With waves!!
Hope you are enjoying the moonlight on the ocean.
Happy sailing. We are all in awe of you.
The Skoss family of Central Australia
Hi Jesse, great update thank you.
Glad you are still having fun, good luck with the cooking part, you have made it this far, don't let the wheels fall off now.
As for catching another fish, you might be a bit hesitant like me; I love fish, but not the killing, especially with no ice bucket to throw it in for a kinder death, if you know what I mean. I could never be a farmer's wife either, love meat, but not being there when they go to heaven....:( What a sook I am!
I will probably be missing for a few days, and I am quite sure you and most of our blogger family will not even notice - I am moving, so much to do, so little time, and then having to wait to get hooked up onto the internet again, wish me luck as you wave me goodbye.
Stay out that nasty looking weather, you have had your bit of excitement, so stay safe darling girl.
You will be in my thoughts and prays and I know I am leaving you in safe hands with everyone here on this blog and on the home front.
Bye for now..........x
-Lori, Brisbane
Hi Jess
Just found out Richard Branson talked with you, does mean we are going to have tough cookies in outer space soon??
Im having problems describing what a sexy cookie is doing in a pink yacht bouncing around like a cork in the Atlantic ocean.
Makes for good talk around the barbie :)
ps you cant go around again youll kill my holidays which Im basing around seeing you sail into Sydney
Safe sailing Jess and get that caboose back home to us soon
Phew those smelly feet, I can smell them here in Melbourne now !!!
See ya Mate :)
KB
Melb
Hi Jess
Here is some nonsense inspired by your feet..
The Jessica Rap
Hot feet
Cold feet
Round the World
I sail
Hot feet
Cold feet
Youngest yet
Won’t fail
Hot feet
Cold feet
Sydney
Here I come
Hot feet
Cold feet
Sailing is
Such fun!!!
Jill (Newcastle)
Oh by the way, you dont need wind instruments just stick your toe out.
Im guessing water probably got in the lines. No biggy
BTW you brother is now 6'
safe sailing Jess
KB
Melb.
Hey Jess,
Glad to see your spirits are so high.
I have been thinking lately about what life for you will be like after this great adventure is over. Sure you are going to be busy with media commitments, book signings, guest appearances etc... but after all that is done and dusted what will Jessica do?
I would like to hear all the other "Jessaholics" ideas on this if they could. For me I see you back in the water Captaining yachts around the Pacific and sharing your love of the ocean. I am sure you would have many crew who would be only to willing to join you.
Ok thats all from me
Stay safe and hooked on
Tim and Rosie
Caboolture
Hi Jessica,
Just a quick word in edgeways,
♣Sally(Sydney)Glad to see you have a Jessaholic boss.
Seeing a few Jessaholics are quoting Winston Churchill...
My Neighbour has a new baby and he looks just like Winston Churchill,☺☺☺.
Jess (and Pink Lady)
Paul here from Redfern in Sydney.
Your very inspirational. Shame there are not more motivated, nicely spoken, and brave people like you. The world would be a better place.
Would be great if you could post more pictures on your blog, perhaps some sunsets, the moon and stars, you .... enjoyed the short albatross clip ... i liked the pic of you in the 'one tough cookie' shirt ... grand stuff ...
Take care out there
Bye
♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥
♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥
Dear Jessica,
What We Admire about you is:
Your: Essence and your Presence
Your: Humour and your Demure
Your: Courage and your Visage
Your: Person and your Reason
Your: Talk and your Walk
Your: M.O. and your Go
Your: Wit and your Grit
And the Lookie of your Cookie.
♥ We also thank all the American Guys and Gals for their interesting, informative and faithful blogs. ♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥
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@: Thank You Very Much to Cheryl
in San-D-A-GO. ✓✓✓✓✓✓✓✓
Regards: Peter Bush, PLANET HYDEN, WA, AU.
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