text:
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Cruising Along
355 comments:1 – 200 of 355 Newer› Newest»
- Rob MacAlister said...
I have been following the adventure which has been brilliant and gives me hope for all those out there who have a goal! One of my mantra's is "Life is a recipe - its the ingredients you put in that make the difference!".
Jessica has demonstrated that anything is possible - I am very glad as I have entered a race to the north pole in 2011 - a similar but very different experience! Blog link below:
By the way, I love the comments you guys right almost as much as Jessica's blog!
- February 3, 2010 at 9:37 PM
- Alex. said...
Keep up the great work, Jess! :)
- February 3, 2010 at 9:38 PM
Thanks for the update, always love to read from you.
- February 3, 2010 at 9:41 PM
Good to hear Jess everything is going fine. I check your site every day, and hope you are going fine. Be careful out there, and stay safe. I had tears the other day when I watched your Mum and Dad, happy tears.
Karen (Wagga Wagga, NSW)
- February 3, 2010 at 9:41 PM
Hi Jess glad things are calm at the moment so you can take it easy for a while and i hope it dosent get to rough out there when you get closer to that low,but you can handle it im sure.
Keep safe we are all with you on your little pink boat, god bless Janet
- February 3, 2010 at 9:43 PM
- Eric McMurtrey said...
I've been reading every post, and can't wish you enough luck. You're an inspiration, even to a crazy old farmer up here in Wisconsin. I once heard a blessing - "May God Stand Between You and Harm in All the Empty Places You Must Go."
Good Luck and God's Speed
- Eric from Lake Geneva
- February 3, 2010 at 9:46 PM
Dear Jess,
You are flying across that ocean. Just to let you and other bloggers know that I've written song number 3 and I'm just working on the accompanying film. I hope you've seen the films 1 & 2 Jess. If not go to :
Stay safe Jess and I'm just loving this adventure
- February 3, 2010 at 9:50 PM
- Wesley said...
It looks amazing! The sunset, that is! How's the weather overnight? Do the stars look different from where you are right now, than when you're at home? xD
- February 3, 2010 at 9:50 PM
following you since weeks now - always interesting to read - you are doing very good.
- February 3, 2010 at 9:51 PM
- Queenslander said...
Do not get too cocky Cookie? There are some big seas headed your way!
What sort of sextant do you have? Metal or plastic?
I am surprised you have not had more "encounters"... there is so much "stuff" floating around on the oceans today!
- February 3, 2010 at 9:55 PM
- Mike D said...
Hey Jess,
Highs and lows, highs and lows... Comes with the weather, comes with the journey. Remember... The sun'll come out tomorrow! So, if your feel'n blue, do what I do. Crank up the music and sing!
Wishing you much happiness!
Be Safe,
Mike D
- February 3, 2010 at 9:58 PM
Hi Jess,
You continue to be an inspiration to my family and wife's school class in special education.
I watch weather charts - wind, wave heights; pressure systems; wind directions and speeds.
Chris and family in Brisbane
- February 3, 2010 at 10:00 PM
Hello Jessica, Glad you're seeing more birds, even if they are smaller than the albatross. Still, company for you and reassuring too. Definitely hope that the nasty weather stays away so that you can begin to go east again. Looks reasonably calm out there in the sunset picture. We've had a calmer day here in Brisbane; no showers today, and just a couple of wind gusts, and blue, blue sky. At sunset tonight the clouds were brilliant white, full and fat and lumpy, just right for falling off a trampoline into. Happy sailing. Erica from Brisbane
- February 3, 2010 at 10:02 PM
- John Webb said...
Hi Jess,
Yes those floating buoys can be a pain can't they its amazing how we sail on a course out in the middle of nowhere and you can look up at just the right moment and right on the bow of the yacht is a crab pot float or like you have experienced a radio beacon indicating wave height or something. If you were out looking for it you would never find it..Ha ha..!!
It is good to hear that the weather has settled somewhat but you are dead right don't stir up "Murphy" by making rash statements.
It is amazing how the mind set changes the further you get on your voyage, we started by worrying about you crossing the Tasman, then we hoped you would get around Kiribati okay, then we fretted as you went around the horn, now we're planning when will you get into Australian waters and how much time will we have to book plane tickets to Sydney to welcome you back...But the main thing is we are still in Oz wishing you a safe passage and the very best weather that neptune has available.
Take care XX
John and Susan Webb
"SV Playground"
- February 3, 2010 at 10:03 PM
- Kissyfrott said...
Needing action, Captain Jesse? It's like a chilly nose for a dog, a sign of good health. You're a kind of warrior, it seems. I like when some fellow bloggers call you trooper or little ripper; I try to imagine you with your "dorky hat" -though we haven't seen a pic yet?- and getting out on the deck to tackle some problem, maybe not with a rifle, but some adapted tool...
It would have been fun -for the first days only, maybe- if EPL had been equipped with some sound system, so everytime you come out of the cabin, you would hear some trumpets like announcing the charge of the light brigade. That might have frightened some nasty waves or gales; BEWARE, here comes the cavalry!!!
Coming near an island is enough to meet some sneaky buoy; EPL had said it, and she knows her oceans. Though it is incredible that on such a wide field of water, you may pass at less than a meter! There was plenty of room all around, I presume ;-)
And it is the second time! The demonstration is clear: You ladies must be too attractive!
There is not only the world watching you, girls, but your Mums, Julie and Margie, too... so please BEHAVE!
Mmmm and what are you saying about glamorous hobbies, Captain Jesse? I had been wondering for a while what kind of glamorous hobbies could have brought such a brilliant furry crew in your cruise.
Glamour... amour... All this has a delicate luxury perfume. Enjoy!
By the way, how are your toenails? I hope you still have some pink to make them flashy before arriving in Sydney; you know we are not allowed to ship you a refill.
Take care and surf well, lovely Captain!
- February 3, 2010 at 10:05 PM
- John Pender said...
A man down the road has three large boats like yours sitting in his yard that he's been refurbishing. Makes me daydream of following in your footsteps.
Always reading!
Bethlehem Georgia USA
- February 3, 2010 at 10:06 PM
Hi Jess,
You are showing such staying power in the middle part of the marathon. The beginning is new and exciting,and the end stretch is exciting. The middle is the true test and you are romping it in with great humour and zest for everything the journey presents. That big orange thing right there. Whoa! That's a bit much!! Keep going Jess, just keep going. We love following your journey. LoL
- February 3, 2010 at 10:08 PM
It sounds like you're having the time of your life Jess. How are you ever going to adjust to getting back to real life and school and all the trials that life has to offer? Well keep doing what you're doing because it sounds great. All the best to you from Milford, Connecticut.
- February 3, 2010 at 10:08 PM
Hi Jesse,
Thats pretty funny just when you thought everything was calm and mundane a bright orange fishing buoy goes floating past! It just goes to show that things can happen when we least expect it.
Glad you're doing a nice 6 to 7 knots and making good progress. I bet its nice to see some birds again. I hope the winds you are expecting are not too strong but remember you are "one tough cookie!"
Thanks for the great photo, the sunset is beautiful. I can only imagine how incredible the stars must be out there with no lights or pollution - seeing them would be one of your great luxuries I think.
Smooth sailing Jesse,
Bluefin (Annie) Buderim, Queensland.
- February 3, 2010 at 10:14 PM
You are doing GREAT Jess! Thanks for providing pics for all to enjoy. :)
- February 3, 2010 at 10:16 PM
- Cameron B said...
Great to see your spirits never dampen. You really are the toughest teenager I have ever met. I cannot wait until you dock once again in Sydney Harbour.
Happy sailing and fair winds
Cameron Boulter
- February 3, 2010 at 10:17 PM
Two guys decided to try duck hunting. They bought new outfits & equipment, and went out to a place in the woods just near the waters edge where they heard the hunting was really good. But after several hours of thrashing through the scrub, one fellow said, "I don't know about this. We've been out here all day and haven't caught a single duck. Do you think we're doing something wrong?"
"I don't know," replied the other. "Maybe we're not throwing the dog high enough."
You go girl - I am so glad you did not get cleaned up by a fishing bouy half way out in the Atlantic ocean. Never a dull moment on the EPL.
Looking at the map you are making fantastic progress keep up the good work.
Given your well practised talents in the galley there will be a spot, no doubt, on Celebrity Master Chef where you can cook up a storm using only dry rations.
Batten down for this one, prepare and stow.
Enjoy the quiet times allow time to meditate - look after number one, eat , keep you fluid intake up, rest when you can.
Safe seas
- February 3, 2010 at 10:21 PM
Jessica, Grant's song for you on YouTube is very easy listening, isn't it. Amazing how people can get involved via today's communications. It's a new world I think. Erica from Brisbane
- February 3, 2010 at 10:22 PM
- Queenslander said...
Ever since Jesse left Sydney people have been asking for Pink Lady's coordinates... Read my lips... "They (shore team) are NOT going to tell you!"
If you want to figure out the lat/long of the pink boat on "Jessica's Map" here is how:
If you are looking at the "flat" map... click the [Satellite] link... drag the latest EPL icon to the center of the screen, zoom in until the features of the sea floor are recognizable. If you are using the Google Earth Plugin do the same thing with the globe but after dragging & zooming, rotate the globe so that the chart is "North Up" (makes the next step easier).
Open a new browser window or tab to:
click the [Satellite] link... drag & zoom to the same part of the ocean. Once you have identified the bit of sea floor that matches the bit that the pink icon is pointing to, place the cursor (hand) at that point... [Right Click] & select (left click) [What's Here?] from the pop up menu.
Look in the Google Maps address box and you will see the coordinates given in whole degrees. North & East are +ve, South & West -ve
For Monday, 1 February 2010 I got "-38.731804,-20.698242"
i.e. 38* 43'.9S, 20* 41'.9W
- February 3, 2010 at 10:25 PM
- Terry said...
Hi Jessica, That buoy floating by so close like that would would be bit scary for you for sure. These updates you give us are really great Jess ,its kind of a feeling that we are on board with you ,its great ,Keep sending them we all love to hear from you ,even the little things you write are really interesting, We are thankful for them. Take care Jess ,Terry and Patricia Melb Aus
- February 3, 2010 at 10:30 PM
Hi Jesse,
I have been waiting for you to try the sextant, but no worries, you still have half the world to go. I confess that I find celestial navigation fascinating. It's so complicated, with lots of math. But it is total magic (at least for me) when you get it to work!
Robert Bernecky
Mystic, Connecticut, USA
- February 3, 2010 at 10:30 PM
What a wonderful trip you are having. I hope the good conditions hold for you. You have done an absabl..dylutey wonderful job so far. I love reading your blog.
We were out twilight sailing tonight in Adelaide, and it amazing the number of people that are talking about going to sydney to see you when you come in.
Stay Safe, Sail Safe.
PS - I'm a Jessaholic and my Name is Tas!
- February 3, 2010 at 10:30 PM
..............***** /////..\\\\.****(.)_(.)*********.......
I bet that scared you and the fluffy crew!
Watch out for the bad weather and I hope you have strong winds but fair sky ahead.
Great going Jesse
Thanks for the update.
Sally in Melbourne by the Bay
- February 3, 2010 at 10:33 PM
Hi Jesse,
You're doing great Jesse my dear, keep up the great work and thanks for the lovely photo.
Keep safe and enjoy. Warmest wishes and big hugs from Jan Pace (Auckland, New Zealand)
- February 3, 2010 at 10:35 PM
Hi Jess,
frolicking with them buoys, are we?
Keep up them dodgers,
Jony the Pony
- February 3, 2010 at 10:36 PM
- Clubtropicana said...
Yesterday reading on an Italian sailing magazine, I've known of you.
Amazing journey ...... amazing girl!
- February 3, 2010 at 10:42 PM
Hello Jessica
Still reading your blogs daily and still happy to hear that you are safe and well and enjoying every moment. I am even learning something too, as I did not know what a 'knockdown' was til my husband explained. My god! I would have been terrified. I guess that is why I am on terra firma, and not out there on the big blue blanket known as the ocean. I would be worried sick if it was my daughter, but I don't have any daughters so I do not have to worry for them, but I still worry for you and look forward to reading your blogs. Stay safe girl
Perth West Australia
- February 3, 2010 at 10:44 PM
Hi Jessica,
This is only my second post, though I've been following you just like so many others since you left Sydney. I love reading your delightful and informative posts as well as many of the comments from your huge adoptive family.
Glad to hear you're having a few of the more peaceful days. Gives you a bit of time to load up your own batteries and spruce up the Pink Lady too.
Take care, intrepid young lady, stay safe and enjoy your adventure.
love to you and the (fluffy) crew, your mum & dad, the whole onshore team and, of course the rest of "our" huge family.
Kees, Doetinchem, the Netherlands
- February 3, 2010 at 10:54 PM
- lswinter said...
7:45 AM ET, Wed., Feb. 3,'10
Hello Jesse,
Enjoyed the read you provided today. I think the most interesting part is your desire to tryout the sextant. It may seem like an academic exercise, but if your power system ever failed--God forgid, that sextant would be one of your best friends. Anyway, your wanting to play around with it proves you're an "old salt" with sea water in your veins. Ha, ha.
We've been having some freezing rains here in North Carolina with more to come this weekend.
Thanks for the update. My wife and I are following and praying for two of you young ladies out on the sea, these days. I know you're aware of Abby, as you wrote of her in a recent blog. Our prayer number one is that the Lord will grant you both safe arrival back to your families when you've finished your run.
Keep traveling in the Lord's blessing,
Leon &4 Sally
Waxhaw, North Carolina USA.
On the web
- February 3, 2010 at 10:55 PM
- Unknown said...
Steady as she goes. The oceans are so large its hard to imagine running across things like big orange objects but there you have it, too close for comfort.
Thanks for the blogs even when things don't seem all that exciting for you we love to hear about the every day events too. Always enjoy the positive slant you put on things. Best wishes, duane
- February 3, 2010 at 11:01 PM
- Amazedbyou said...
Hiya Jesse,
Orange fishing buoy would have been a bit of a spook...Pheww. Good miss.
Luckily EPL saw it and gave it a wide birth... Parker would have been relieved. Your crew would have just gawked at it !! They are slack I tell ya Jesse. Bad crew. No muffins for them.
The Sextant, Wow, I understand the concept of it, just don't understand the concept of it.
Confused, yeah, I will tell you how I see it.
The stars move, the sun moves, you are moving, and everything is rotating...like how can you tell who is moving where..when everyone is busy moving somewhere. It does my head in, I can't think about that anymore, I feel sick.
All the more power to ya Jesse, if you know how to operate it. Excellent!!
I love that you are seeing different birds over there. What are they? Nothing beats a Albatrossies though, I can understand you missing them. I would like to see one. Love the piccy, looks somewhat choppy.
Hope you get going east and east again soon, so that will be so far east it will be west and home...!!
PS, note to self, never say "murphy's law". How uncanny.
Have fun Jesse, see ya tomorrow. Cheers Paula
- February 3, 2010 at 11:03 PM
- Old Iron said...
Thanks for you update Jesse
- February 3, 2010 at 11:03 PM
- Brian Riley said...
Hi Jessica!
Big red buoys with antennas, this is earth we are on not another planet. Sounds like you came across one end of a long line that just drift with the sea currents, no knowing how long it would be, with you still being 1800nm from Cape Agulhas the southern most tip of Africa Parker was very lucky.
Murphy's law, well I wouldn't really wish to go in that direction, to many variables to consider.
I was interested in your discussion on the size of birds now you are further north, it is amazing how far they travel on the wind regardless of their size.
Hope the weather does not become to strong as the sog you are doing is very consistent and makes for good sailing.
Safe Passage, will talk later.
Hervey Bay, QLD.
- February 3, 2010 at 11:10 PM
- nutralady2001 said...
Hi Jesse thanks for the updates sweetie.Have been run off my feet with DD in hospital but hope to sit down over the w/e and catch up properly.You are doing amazingly and are so well prepared. I remember you having a little grumble (maybe jokingly) as your Dad added yet another safety measure. How wise her was xx
- February 3, 2010 at 11:15 PM
- nanna said...
Hi Jess,keep up the good work,check up on you every day and thrilled when you have reported in,stay safe....
Nanna Cairns Qld
- February 3, 2010 at 11:20 PM
Hi Jess
Nice article about you in the Heraldsun in Melb. yesterday which I agree with.
I'm pretty sure you can handle a little bit more weather in the next few days, just don't get too complacent will you.
Hanging out for your book as well and hoping there might be a movie some time in the future.
Stay clipped on and may the South Atlantic Dolphins look after you now for a short while
ps Thanks Bob, your work is invaluable.
Safe sailing Jess
- February 3, 2010 at 11:23 PM
- Klas said...
Hello Jessica
My name i Klas Karlsson and I live up norht in Sweden. I have also been following your great adventure on the great big ocean for a while now. And I must say, that I like what I read in your blog. It must be very nice to be out ther on the waters in your little boat. I wish you all the best in the future.
I only have one question for you. What do you miss the most from home?
best wishes
Klas in Sweden
- February 3, 2010 at 11:27 PM
Weds night, 3 Feb 10, 12:23am
Hello Jessica (Beverly here in Tassie). Well, I can say for a fact, you do have an interesting life. Each day is so different from the last. And today, you are playing with the "buoys" - your Mom is going to hear about this I am sure.
I certainly pray you don't get any of the nasty weather that is around and about. You have definitely had your share of it and I pray that God and Bob will keep you far away from it. And if it happens that you cop a bit of the edge of it, God will keep you safe as He did before. You know that and you can count on His promises.
Down here in Tassie it has been HOT!!! I don't do hot! I wither like a piece of lettuce and shrivel. Actually, I lay on the bed under the fan. We have the air on in the rest of the house but my door has to stay shut due to my cat. She isn't supposed to go into that part of the house so I stay in here with her cause it make me feel guilty if I leave her in the room by herself. What she has to put up with, so do I!
We are having a bull bar put on our motor-home for the trip over to see you come home. Just in case something "big" tries to stop us. There isn't much between the front of the motor-home and our legs so it is money well spent, just in case.
The only thing we are hemming and hawing about now is when to actually book the ferry to come over. We have it booked right now for 18 Apr - 24 May; but we have kinda decided that is a bit too long and will be a bit too expensive since I have had to retire and go on disability due to doing something stupid like trying to die. LOL, fooled those doctors I reckon! So we will have to cut the number of days down some but really, really don't know exactly where to cut from, the first part or the last part. We don't want to miss any of the parties with the Jessaholics, that's for sure. If any of you other Jessaholics have any suggestions please let us know as it is pretty darned expensive on the ferry (over $1K) so we can't change the dates too often for fear of losing our money. And...there is NO way I will miss our Jessica come home!
I've started my physical therapy last week and I told her she has 3 months to get me "up and running" so I can come to Sydney. So I cherish all the prayers from all of you that I can get. It's pretty rough right now but I know it has to be rough so it will be effective. So...please PRAY, PRAY, PRAY! Please.
Well Jessica, stay away from those "buoys" and remember GOD is right there beside you; just have a chat if you feel like it and His Legions of Angels are surrounding you and EPL, guiding you safely towards the Cape of Good Hope. I love that name, GOOD HOPE! What a wonderful phrase to keep in your vocabularly. (Speaking of which, have you done any homework lately--now don't hit me please, I'm fragile, LOL). {{{HUGS}}} Beverly & Andrew Penney, Tasmania
- February 3, 2010 at 11:29 PM
- Kathie said...
Hey Jess,
Just to let you know I think about you when your smooth sailing as well!!
Kathie (NYC) oxox
- February 3, 2010 at 11:30 PM
- Unknown said...
Once again excellent update Jesse. I bet seeing that thing out of your porthole woke you up. Now you're probably going to be jumpy for a while.
Anyway, stay safe
- February 3, 2010 at 11:34 PM
Hey Jesse,
Just when you started to relax, probably hadn't brushed your hair for a day or two, could do with a repaint on the nails etc - who should rock up - but a BuOY. Typical... when you least expect them and when you're not quite ready - there they are!
Take care Jesse - hoping the weather is kind and lets you go where you want! (I'm no sailor and if I don't see the sun come up I wouldn't have a clue which way was which).
I have got to finally say - I really enjoy reading the blogs - firstly I do a quick collapse comments and scour the blogs to search for (to name only a few) Michael, Samuri, Richie, Richard, Carol, Tim 09 (and where have you been lately), Transplanted Aussie and of course The McGraths - read these eagerly and then back to the beginning again.
Keep it going Jessaholics!!
- February 3, 2010 at 11:40 PM
Hi Jesse, thanks for your post, it's always lovely to read your messages.
Thanks for sharing your journey with us.
You must have got quite a fright to suddenly be so close to the buoy, I'm glad that it didn't get tangled up with Parker.
Thanks for the lovely photo. It's good that you have some birds to keep you company. Have you seen any dolphins recently?
I hope that everything will be ok for you and EPL with the strong wind that is expected in a few days. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
stay safe and keep alert.
God Bless
Armidale NSW
- February 3, 2010 at 11:50 PM
Hi Jess,
keep up them dodgers,
Jony the Pony
- February 3, 2010 at 11:51 PM
- Organisedvicar said...
Don't speak too soon Jesse, Murphy's alive and kickin' last time I checked.
I'm wondering what islands you must be nearing so guess I should go check google earth. Will you be far enough south to see any more albatross? I know you'll see some south of Tasmania when you get there.
The buoy must have given you one heck of a shock and so close too!
Just two more sleeps until our holiday in Caloundra. Have added the Mooloolaba Yacht Club to my list of 'must do'. I definitely want to check out Jesse Watson's home port!
Blessings gorgeous girl for still more smooth sailing and avoidance of anymore nasty weather.
- February 3, 2010 at 11:53 PM
Hi Jesse I am so amazed to see by your photos that so much of EPL's railings etc - sorry, don't know the sailing names for things! - are still straight after that terrible storm.EPL is another tough cookie.
I checked passageweather.com yesterday and after seeing that monster storm down south I flew to your site to see where you were and was so relieved to see you are well north.Hopefully it won't send too much wind and seas up north to bother you.
I'm off now to see how Abby is getting on.My security word is "sheness" - how appropriate.
- February 3, 2010 at 11:55 PM
- Jonathan Castelino said...
Hi Jess,
I thought as much that you would be carrying a sextant and hopefully you will have a go at it if and when the sky clears. It will be interesting to challenge yourself to determine how accurately you can plot your position and course and check it against your GPS unit.
The difference between how you do it and how I do it is that I have the luxury of landmarks. That makes me continue to have a deep and profound admiration and respect for what you are accomplishing.
Rest well ! Eat well !
- February 3, 2010 at 11:55 PM
- GlobeMasterOne said...
Ahoy Captain Jesse,
Regards your "PS"...as if "tangled in tethers" wasn't enough...now we have you almost "tangled in Parker".
I can see the headlines now....
....(unidentified floating object)...with secret communications antenna no less.
Just when we thought it was safe again for our Jesse....more drama on the high seas. What chapter in the book will this be? A special effects team will now have to be assembled for "JESSE...the movie".
Seriously...I am happy you and EPL are ok and I hope the weather co-operates. Nice pic by the way.
Safe safe
Bay of Quinte, Lake Ontario, Canada
- February 3, 2010 at 11:58 PM
Hi Jessica,
It's great to hear that you are still enjoying pleasant sailing conditions but it sounds like you may experience a bit of rough stuff from the fringes of that system further south. Hopefully it will accelerate your progress East and not cause any other problems!
Practising the sextant could be a useful exercise. If for some reason you lose the use of your more modern electronic navigation equipment, the good old sextant will be a handy device for determining your position.
How is your physical health holding up Jessica? Viruses shouldn't be a problem in your isolated situation but dietary issues and the inability to carry out exercises that us land based people can perform routinely having any effect on you? Or do you have an exercise routine designed for confined spaces which enables you to stay fit? Or do the myriad tasks involved with keeping EPL happy and heading in the right direction (as well as the "domestic" tasks) provide you with enough physical activity?
Please keep your well written blogs coming and stay safe!
Kindest Regards, Martin, Canning Vale, West Aust
- February 4, 2010 at 12:02 AM
Hi Jessica,
There was another thing that I wanted to mention that I started because of your journey that has helped get me through the pain of my spinal disease. One of the things I started to do was to start studying my geography via Google Earth. I studied everywhere you've passed by as well as places you haven't. What has really opened my eyes to the world is just how many little islands there are that I've never heard of. I've really gotten into studying everyday places that are new and there histories via links to Wikipedia among other sources. All this studying has really expanded my horizons and I've been able to share my enthusiasm for learning about our world to my husband and children. I even started a sort of photo album of places that are unique or beautiful so we can remember what we've learned. I've also been studying the wildlife and the area's natural habitat, along with our oceans and the marine life that it in them, etc. All of this has helped me through each day, because when my mind is occupied in this way, along with following your adventure, my pain gets pushed into the background.
The other subjects that I have been studying because of you are all about sailing terms and what everything means when you mention it. In fact I've told my husband as soon as we can afford it, I want to set sail myself and see the world and I'm very serious about that. The other thing that I've always wanted to do and now will definitely do, is swim with the dolphins. I love dolphins and their intelligence. I believe God put these precious guardian angels on this earth to be just that, guard us, and even guide us at times, teach us and keep us company when their needed. Even the US Marines uses dolphins for detailed military operations which they perform brilliantly.
But all of these new learning adventures of mine started when you first sailed to the start line. Everyone has told you thank you for letting us come along and for sharing the details of your adventure, but I still need to tell you that anyways. You are touching lives that you don't even know and it is because you dared to follow your dreams and make them come true at your tender age of 16. You have wisdom and maturity beyond your years while still maintaining the essence of a 16 year old girl. You are an example of what a true positive winning attitude can do. Well anyways I said all this because I just really wanted to tell you about the rest of the impact you've had on me and my family that I didn't tell you the first time around. (Although I do know that you read hundreds if not a thousands of other's comments, so I don't expect you to remember that if you don't)
But about your latest entry here; I'm glad you are steering away from the worst of the storm. I love how you see the beauty in all kinds of weather. You see nature's gifts constantly around you and you truly appreciate them. I am a lot like that. I notice nature's beauty in that way too. As I've said before, you truly are a gifted writer to be able to relay all that you are experiencing and seeing in such descriptive ways that allow us to see and feel what you do. I know we can't really, but you do your best so that we can imagine it, which makes us feel you are taking us along with you, which you figuratively are. Oh, and I'm really glad you didn't really get damaged from that surprise buoy. Now that you are closer to land, you'll have to make sure you don't get surprised like that anymore. But I know you have that under control. Maybe another birdie or two will hitch a ride and give you some company. Well anyways, sail on with full wind in your sails. That's another positive personal attribute you have, you never let anyone ever take the "wind out of your sails".
Take care and God Bless,
Tampa, FL
- February 4, 2010 at 12:04 AM
Hi Jessica,
It's great to hear that you are still enjoying pleasant sailing conditions but it sounds like you may experience a bit of rough stuff from the fringes of that system further south. Hopefully it will accelerate your progress East and not cause any other problems!
Practising the sextant could be a useful exercise. If for some reason you lose the use of your more modern electronic navigation equipment, the good old sextant will be a handy device for determining your position.
How is your physical health holding up Jessica? Viruses shouldn't be a problem in your isolated situation but dietary issues and the inability to carry out exercises that us land based people can perform routinely having any effect on you? Or do you have an exercise routine designed for confined spaces which enables you to stay fit? Or do the myriad tasks involved with keeping EPL happy and heading in the right direction (as well as the "domestic" tasks) provide you with enough physical activity?
Please keep your well written blogs coming and stay safe!
Kindest Regards, Martin, Canning Vale, West Aust
- February 4, 2010 at 12:05 AM
- Organisedvicar said...
PSssst workerbev: I'll be praying for you each and every day as I'm sure plenty of other will too so keep your chin up. If you can set this target for the trip up to Sydney then I'm sure gonna try and make it too. I would love to be there when our Jesse sails into the harbour.
Jo-Anne, Geelong.
- February 4, 2010 at 12:10 AM
Good luck with the sun sighting, Jessica.....it's a bit tricky standing on a pitching deck trying to measure the angles, but practice makes perfect. Always good to have a sextant on board in the unlikely event that the satellites all go down at the same time and the GPS cannot get its bearings, as happened over North America at the time of 9/11 :(
Next you'll be trying sightings of the navigational stars!!
Batten down the hatches for the pending blow, and stay safe, lil buddy.
Brian & Phill
Vancouver, Canada
- February 4, 2010 at 12:11 AM
- Ernest From NH (USA) said...
Hi Captain Jesse, I hope the edge
of the storm you may encounter will
be easy on you and EPL. We don't need any more of those monster
rouge waves. Heading east will be
just what you need to refocus on
getting home. Be Safe! Godspeed!
- February 4, 2010 at 12:19 AM
- john naughton said...
Hi Jesse
Good call to go north for a while, looks like really nasty chaos south of you at the moment.
Safe sailing and best wishes
John N
- February 4, 2010 at 12:23 AM
- Queenslander said...
@ workerbev...
Beverly & Andrew Penney, Tasmania
Re your ferry dilemma... Does it make any sense to get the motor-home over to "the mainland" ahead of time?
I have to assume it is much easier to get a spot on the ferry if you do not have a vehicle.
That way, once we have a "ball park" idea of Jesse's ETA, you hop on the ferry to the "big island", jump in the camper van and help out the farmers by knocking over Roos with your new bull bar on the way to Port Jackson!
As far as making a reservation for the trip home... ???... can't help ya...
Nice aerial photo of Sydney:
I am trying to picture the harbour jammed with boats and the heads jammed with people!!!
- February 4, 2010 at 12:27 AM
Regarding sextants: These are generally used to measure the "height" in degrees and minutes of an object (say the sun in the daytime or a star or the moon at night) above the horizon. One of the things it can tell you is how far you've travelled.
1 nautical mile happens to equal 1 minute of latitude: each degree of latitude is 60 nautical miles. And 1nm=1.85km=1.15miles.
Say for example, you were sailing in a northerly direction in the southern hemisphere. Using your sextant you measured the height (in degrees) of the sun at midday on 2 consecutive days, and you found that its height had increased by 4 degrees in the interval.
That measurement tells you you'd travelled 4x60=240 nautical miles in the 24 hours.
To measure longitude (ie. travelling East-West) is more compex requiring tables and the like which I wont attempt to explain here.
I hope this helps or is of interest to readers.
- February 4, 2010 at 12:28 AM
Now that you have so much easy time, take some time to fit in a video of EPL and your calm surroundings. Show us the boat... take a tour. We are curious about her condition.
See ya Sailor!
- February 4, 2010 at 12:30 AM
- Queenslander said...
@ Amazedbyou...
You are a riot :))
- February 4, 2010 at 12:31 AM
- sponge21 said...
Hi Jesse
Thanks for the update
Its so amazing that you have
so many followers hanging on the
edge of their seats waiting for your next blog.
like me i must check my pc about 4
times a day!
You are soooo awsome!!!!!!!!!
Mark Perth WA
- February 4, 2010 at 12:32 AM
- Molly said...
Posting about buoys and sex...tants, are you? :)
Glad to hear there are some bird friends around to keep you company. Perhaps one will join you for a while, like our old pal Silly.
Continued prayers to the Sea Spirits to watch over you and keep you safe.
Marlyand USA
- February 4, 2010 at 12:33 AM
- Caves Beach Andrew said...
Hey Jesse,
Good to hear that all is progressing well. Although I read with caution at your cockiness about the conditions.
Just remember to stay alert, as soon as you relax too much, something will catch you unawares. You have come too far now to have something ruin your journey due to a lack of attention.
You should know, you can never take the sea for granted and it would be wise not to get too over-confident.
But in saying that, I am confident in your ability to get through everything, provided that you stay attentive of course.
So how did you not see the buoy that passed so close to you. Are these buoys marked on maps?
Weather wise, we have had about 3-4 weeks of very humid weather, I suppose a bit like your Queensland weather at this time of year, but only better of course! LOL It is nearly 2am here and I could not sleep, and just typing here is making me drip with sweat. It must be close to 100% humidity. And just quietly, it makes 8 hour golf practice days very tiring!
Wanna swap roles for a couple of days? Only kidding, you would miss EPL too much! And I would probably miss green grass - gets a bit hard to find golf balls when you tee off in the middle of the Atlantic!
Anyway, gotta go and try to sleep!
Stay alert and take care gorgeous girl!
Caves Beach, Newcastle
- February 4, 2010 at 12:55 AM
- Unknown said...
Whooo,close call with the orange bouy but what's it doing out there?
Here's hoping also you can go east soon :)
- February 4, 2010 at 12:57 AM
- Queenslander said...
I wonder if Richard Branson was talking to Jesse about this?
or maybe she would prefer to skipper something like this?
- February 4, 2010 at 1:00 AM
- February 4, 2010 at 1:03 AM
- Unknown said...
The fishing buoy is just another indication that you are not really alone out there. Let it be a reminder that we are all with you - in spirit - as well.
Praying for continued good weather and solid wind.
- February 4, 2010 at 1:10 AM
- Unknown said...
Hey Jessica, Watched all your videos last night and it really gave me a sense of your journey.
Thank you for posting on this blog and for sharing your experiences with us via video!
My daughter and I are following you daily and wish you all the best in your journey home. God stay with you.
Barb from Ohio USA
- February 4, 2010 at 1:17 AM
- Staffan said...
Good call to go north for a while.
975mb and 30 knots SW with 6 m swell.
Be carefull out there
- February 4, 2010 at 1:21 AM
- gustav said...
Dear Jessica,
I am glad you remembered
just in time as that great big orange fishing buoy complete with aerial floated past Ella's Pink Lady less than a meter away and only just avoiding getting into a tangle with Parker.
I can just imagine the look on your face and your spontaneous reaction to that unexpected surprise.(smile)
THE PRIME AXIOM: In any field of scientific endeavor, anything that can go wrong,will.
2.If the possibility exists of several things going wrong, the one that will go wrong is the one that will do the most damage.
3. Everything will go wrong at one time.
3.1 That time is always when you least expect it.
4. If nothing can go wrong, something will.
5. Nothing is as easy as it looks.
6. Everything takes longer than you think.
7. Left to themselves, things always go from bad to worse.
8. Nature always sides with the hidden flaw.
9. Given the most inappropriate time for something to go wrong, that's when it will occur.
10. Mother Nature is a bitch.
10.1 The universe is not indifferent to intelligence, it is actively hostile to it.
11.If everything seems to be going well, you have obviously overlooked something.
12.If in any problem you find yourself doing an immense amount of work,the answer can be obtained by simple inspection.
13.Never make anything simple and efficient when a way can be found to make it complex and wonderful.
14. If it doesn't fit, use a bigger hammer.
15.In an instrument or device characterized by a number of plus-or-minus errors, the total error will be the sum of all the errors adding in the same direction.
16. In any given calculation, the fault will never be placed if more than one person is involved.
16.1 In any given discovery, the credit will never be properly placed if more than one person is involved.
17. All warranty and guarantee clauses become invalid upon payment of the final invoice.
18. Murphy's Law: "If there are two or more ways to do something, and one of those ways can result in a catastrophe, then someone will do it."
Murphy's laws site:
gustav haffner
- February 4, 2010 at 1:24 AM
- PWB said...
- February 4, 2010 at 1:27 AM
- IndyMike said...
You are so fun! I look forward to every bit of news from you. That sextant sounds like fun too. (if you can see the sky) Now that orange buoy sounds a little strange...
Good sailing.
- February 4, 2010 at 1:29 AM
- Paula said...
Yikes! Almost colliding with that buoy must have been truly scary. Reminds me of a close encounter I had last summer with floating line from a sunken mooring. The line was invisible as I sailed along, and then WHAP! We stopped, my little Herreshoff and I, as the line snagged the rudder. We were stuck fast. I had to ask a passing fishing boat to radio for the harbormaster to help me out, and eventually a cute 18-year-old guy showed up, assessed the situation, and dove in. He was able to unsnag us, and off we sailed.
What would you do in a similar situation? I hope you'd be able to just cut the line. I couldn't reach the culprit from inside my boat, but I did have a knife ready just in case.
Smooth sailing, Jesse! I read you every day.
- February 4, 2010 at 1:31 AM
- SaltyDog said...
Any day that we hear from you is a sunny day. Boy that sounds cheesy, but very true.
Watch out for more of those floating orange aliens with antennas. It could belong to longline fishermen, in which case there will be more of them, unless it was a "runaway" buoy. Some of them could have an antenna and some could have a small radar reflector or beacon light. I don't want to see my friend Parker tangling with any orange aliens. But hey, it could be a sign of good fishing in the area.
It looks like some nasty weather heading in your direction. I sure hope that it passes to the south of you, Jess. We'll all keep our fingers crossed for you.
Have fun, stay safe and happy sailing.
From Seattle, WA, USA
- February 4, 2010 at 1:33 AM
buoy o buoy..
''it's always something!'' ~roseanne roseannadanna
stay lucky out there skipper jesse..
- February 4, 2010 at 1:42 AM
- Unknown said...
Jessica, we are behind you all the way you are not alone in that ocean...my family and I pray for your safe passage every day.
- February 4, 2010 at 1:47 AM
- el grande said...
I'm glad you have the opportunity to experience a "routine week"! Always a pleasure to see a new entry and as usual, your words paint a pretty vivid picture.
Watch out for that flotsam out there - there's lots of it! I suggest you place a stuffy crew member on watch at all times.
- February 4, 2010 at 1:48 AM
- hp said...
Bonjour Jessica & Ella's Pinl Lady,
Looks like you went bye the weather buoy 31925.
There is another buoy South-East of you, 17657, within 100nm.
And there is a ship, Callsign A81V4 (name unknown), coming your way.
The birds probably come from Tristan da Cunha Island.
'Bon pied, bon oeil' is the order of the day!
Be cool, keep safe :-)
- February 4, 2010 at 2:17 AM
- February 4, 2010 at 2:22 AM
Jessica I noticed based on the original charting of your course that because of the weather you look to be a little bit farther north than intially planned. Is this going to set back the number of days until completion?
- February 4, 2010 at 2:31 AM
- hp said...
Bonjour Jessica,
A little refresher about the sextant?
Twinkle-twinkle little stars! :-)
Keep smiling, be safe
- February 4, 2010 at 2:32 AM
Ohai, again, Jess!
Great blog!
Your inner sailor (sailess?)seems to be emerging, with your interest in the sextant, but do you have any tables to help determine longitude? At least you can get accurate time via the radio, and latitude is straightforward, if not that easy at first. It will be a worthy skill to add to your growing list. :o)
The "main-stream media" still seem unaware of your epic journey, which might actually be for the best, given their tendencies. This voyage will be a defining phase of what I predict will be a most interesting life, and that may happen with less inappropriate twisting without tons of media coverage.
Praying for you and your safety has spiced up my prayer life, I must say! :o) With all of us praying for you, you may still have some exciting moments, but will make it home safely.
{ { { { { Jessica } } } } }
Roger de Davis
- February 4, 2010 at 2:33 AM
- Ron said...
Your new name if Supergirl. Nothing can daunt your outlook! You continue to bore your way into the hearts of the world, especially mine. I pray for your safe passage with confidence that you'll arrive home to the greatest welcome the world has ever known. I live in hope that you'll find the time to visit me when you come to the U.S.A. which is inevitable. You're every couples dream of the perfect child. I know your parents beam every day knowing what a marvelous daughter they have.
Ron - Alabama USA
- February 4, 2010 at 2:37 AM
Good to hear that the weather is cooperating. I suppose it can get a little boring, just plodding along. Enjoy it, good weather is such an uncertain. Here in the NE USA if we don't like the weather we just wait a few minutes for it to change.
Look forward to checking on you every day. Keep up the good work and your positive attitude.
- February 4, 2010 at 2:44 AM
- hp said...
Bonjour Jessica,
Also a graphic designer are you?
I just saw 'The Voyage Wall Chart' you designed.
It's so informative,clean and cute!Very nice!
Stay safe.
- February 4, 2010 at 2:44 AM
Looks lovely, that photo. But you know the how it goes for sure. Hope the storm taling you is not tooo much. Yikes, on the buoy, all you need is sime ocean garbage to mess you up. So, curious, what is a buoy doing out in the middle of the Atlantic. I wouldn't think it is really for fishing, but maybe I am wrong. Maybe one of the bloggers or your team will know. Be alert missy, there is probably going to be all kinds of stuff the closer you get to land.
Thanks for the nice update!
Happy sailing from California,
- February 4, 2010 at 2:50 AM
- chris said...
Hey there,
Lucky you to miss that bouy!! I'm so glad that it was not a boat or a tanker!
Keep eating up those miles,you are so close to home now. It must be a itchy feeling to know that home is just around the corner from you. Wishing that I could watch you sail into the harbor but well, I am in Uni and they tend to get a bit miffed if you don't show up for classes,lol.
Best of luck with the wind... let Parker do all the work!
chris in northern calif
- February 4, 2010 at 2:56 AM
- Richard in Maryland said...
Hi Jesse,
Things a bit ho-hum? You will have plenty of chances for excitement before you get back home, take my word for it. You must have a type T personality!
As usual, prepare, and drill. A good time to learn to use a sextant is when you don't need it. You can check your calculated positions against your GPS until you get it down. You might say, well I've got plenty of GPS's and even a spare handheld or two stowed below, so sextant is fun , but I will probably never need it. Well, there is always a possibility that a massive solar flare could knock out the satellites, such as if what happened in 1859 were to happen now. The consequences today would be even more dramatic than they were then.
Carrington Flare
Thanks again for sharing your experiences with us. Your gift to the world is one of inspiration, and a reminder to us all to realize our human potential.
Sail On Special One!
Richard W
- February 4, 2010 at 3:18 AM
Hi again Jesse!
The moment, you take the picture, must be very great!
Also the stars at night must be very spectacular, because no light around destroy your glorious view!
So, take these moments! As you say - it's your time of your life!
But..., another storm will past your way. I hope, you are not too worry about, cause I do that for you! ;-))
So once again I would like to wish you all the best, especially for the next 72 hours!
I think of you!
Randy / Hamburg, Germany
- February 4, 2010 at 3:24 AM
Dear Jess u r the most on toast groovy baby let the sun shine in....wheres my bikini pin up photo u r like a goddess or something closer to the truth///......lol Bernie 777
- February 4, 2010 at 3:31 AM
- Vegasclimber said...
A great post as always Jess!
We also hope that the winds pass soon so that you can continue eastward.
You are correct about being near some islands. According to your location update, you are near a small group of three islands - Tristan da Cunha, Inaccessible Island (doesn't that sound pleasant) and Nightingale Island.
They look pretty barren, so you don't need to worry about being tempted to stop for a coffee ;).
Pretty much the only land in the middle of the ocean which probably explains the birds.
It will be interesting to see how your experiments with the sextant work out. I personally have a hard enough time using a map and compass. :D
I am wondering if you are still making some attempts at fishing? I'm sure you would have updated us if you had caught anything. :)
At any rate, stay safe, and watch out for those danged buoy bags!
- February 4, 2010 at 3:36 AM
- Barry Clements said...
Hi there Jesse you little champion.
I loved you putting in the Murphy quote because you can be sure he's hanging around out there too, to be sure, to be sure.
I've had a couple of classic Murphy's Law emails sent to me a while back so when I'm finished this post I'll find them and post them for you and the blogger family, so you can have a great big laugh.
You'll spend a couple of days having little giggles everytime you think about some of the bits you'll read. so keep an eye out for my posting at around 3.55am
If you press Ctrl + f on your keyboard a search pane will appear at the top of the page. you just enter my name or anything else your looking for and it will take you to the term entered. click next if it's not the one you want and it will go to a new item. you do need to enter a new term for each page you're on.
I posted some fishing tips again for you yesterday so you can vary the diet with a seafood treat but it was way down the list of comments and you may not have read down that far.
I'll post it again after I've sent this one so it will have the time posted of about 3.40am. there's a couple of tips that should give you results and I even threw in cooking suggestions to go with it.
Talking fishing, you should have got out the boat hook and nabbed that orange buoy. It would have been the marker for one end of a fishing longline and the aerial is for the GPS locator so the owner can find it.
You could have pulled in a few meters to pick up an easy meal, but not being a lawful exercise we'll only have to imagine the fish tasted good.
If you have radar onboard their ship could even be around the area with other lines.
Some of those longlines they have in the deep waters are multiple kilometres in length and have thousands of hooks on them.
I was thinking at the distance you've been travelling each day and you must be getting close to "Edinburgh of the Seven Seas Island, Gough Island and the Prime Meridian.
Once you hit the Prime Meridian
0°E/W you are well on your way home with only about 151°E back to Sydney. so that's a big chunk of the 360° circuit completed.
You might be throwing everyone's plans astray and turn up in Sydney a week or two earlier than the original plan.
I'm coming down from Bribie Island for the homecoming and very much looking forward to seeing Buderim Queensland's new hero trying to work your way through the myriad of boats that will be out to greet you home.
Cheers for now and lap up each day because you'll be lost when your feet touch terra firma again.
Barry Clements
Bribie Island
- February 4, 2010 at 3:38 AM
- Richard Lathrop said...
nice pic, jesse.
looks like the Targa is straight again. how did you manage that?
the branch of the Atlantic i'm gazing at through my office window is almost like glass today.
I hope she (Ms. Atlantic) treats you kindly for the remainder of your brief visit here.
Funny how those buoys pop up out of nowhere. they can give you a scare, but probably not much damage if your prop's not turning.
Warm regards, Champion, be safe.
Fair Winds,
Richard Lathrop
- February 4, 2010 at 3:41 AM
- Barry Clements said...
Here are the fishing suggestions to have a crack at and I hope it brings a result for you
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 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.
Barry Clements
Bribie Island
- February 4, 2010 at 3:43 AM
Buoy...? BOYS...? B O Y S !!!!
- February 4, 2010 at 3:52 AM
nice to hear from you again ;) and
to know you are still in a little more comfy conditions.
But you are right with murphys law ;) so be careful what to say and complaining about ;) otherwise you could find yourself in the next strom faster than you wish.
And watch these freaky buoys, would be really damn to collide with one of these things. You don't have made a photo of these thing don't you? Maybe that was an weather opservation thing, just thinking because of these antennas ;).
Greets from Germany
- February 4, 2010 at 3:55 AM
Hallo, experts out there. What does a maritime driftmine from ~1982 looks like? I mean something the Argentines and British could have launched against each other's interest in those disputed islands near Cape Horn.
- February 4, 2010 at 4:01 AM
Jessie those large orange buoys are the things that give you the wave heights and weather forcast I guess we have to have them. It would have run down the the side of Pink Lady and brushed away anyway not catching anything if you were so unlucky to have made contact.You could have never foreseen that one for sure.. Well you must be in shallower water now for the buoy's to have been set I guess there cant be a deep trenchs where you are right now, the volcanic Islands are getting nearer for sure. Near to Tristan Da Cunha or Gough Island and the volcanic shelves and the undersea volcano tops. I wonder if you will see any volcanic activity coming from under the sea reaching the surface, thats if the sea is calm of course.as there is a lot of volcanos in this area, some of them active
Hopefully the weather will hold for you and you can make better time. I see your lone sailor Indian friend has set off again for the cape and he was expecting gale force winds today But he is better prepared now with the refit and the repaired navigation and steering . I wonder if he will catch you up as I understand that he has a much faster vessel than your Pink Lady His vessel is larger and can carry more sail. .You never know you might get to chat with him again sometime soon. Fair winds Captain and hopefully you will change course again to the East and the cape having missed that bad weather front You might like to try the fishing again you never know you might catch a nice fresh fish for dinner. .....Take care ..ozbeachman
- February 4, 2010 at 4:05 AM
- Barry Clements said...
Jessica, here's the first of two Murphy Law posts as promised. I'm still trying to find the better one.
Incoming fire has right of way.
If the enemy is in range, so are you.
Don't look conspicuous - it draws fire.
If it's stupid and it works, it aint stupid.
When in doubt - empty your magazine.
The easy way is always mined.
Try to look unimportant - they may be low on ammo.
Teamwork is essential - it gives them somebody else to shoot at.
Never draw fire - it irritates everyone around you.
Anything you do can get you shot, including doing nothing.
Never share a weapon pit with anyone braver than yourself.
If your attack is going really well it's an ambush.
No battle plan survives contact with the enemy.
Your weapon was made by the lowest bidder.
The only thing more accurate than enemy incoming fire is friendly incoming fire.
When you have secured the area don't forget to tell the enemy.
Make it tough enough for the enemy to get in and you won't be able to get out.
If you're short on anything but the enemy - you're in a combat zone.
The enemy invariably attacks on only two occasions - when you're ready and when you're not.
A sucking chest wound is nature's way of telling you to slow down.
- February 4, 2010 at 4:06 AM
Thanks Jessica
Keep smiling
Think Positive
Luv u
Richard (QLD)
- February 4, 2010 at 4:09 AM
- LHall said...
Hi Jessica! We will pray for an extra measure of sunshine for you so you can look at the stars. We're still cheering for you up here in Orem, Utah USA. It will be sad too for us when you are done.
- February 4, 2010 at 4:12 AM
I have never done any sea adventures, but my love was of the air. You commented about using a sextent for navigation. I have never used that device, but what I did use many times was the Jeppsen Circular Plotter for navigation in the air. I am sure it could be used on the sea as well, which would give you your wind information.
Keep your eyes and ears open, you have come too far to have your adventure end over something stupid, like running into a bouy!!
Ron Sullivan
Hanover, PA USA
- February 4, 2010 at 4:13 AM
Jesse, don't slip up too far north. You might end up in India and spoil Dilip Donde's trip around the world...
- February 4, 2010 at 4:13 AM
- hezakiah299 said...
02-03-10 @ 13:19
Hi Jessica,
Looks like you're sailing along pretty well, no problems and you got all your preventive maintenance done, no worries yes???? Good!!!! Sorry, but I don't agree with the "No news is good news" statement, at least not in your situation, you still have to know what's going on in front of you and all around you. Why do I feel bad for disagreeing with you???
Sorry to hear that you're losing your sunshine, I know you'll miss that.
But you might get some action (some of your 'bumpy' stuff… lol) towards the end of the week, nothing serious, Bob will surely keep you out of the worst of it. Nothing to worry about Angel, you're doing fine.
Good luck with the sextant, it'll come back, and you have the book.
I like how you might complain about something, but you always maintain that good positive attitude. Never lose that.
Were you able to see if the bouy's were tied together to figure their layout or, do you think this was just an isolated bouy? Your Mum is going to give you 'what for' for messing with them bouy's again. lol….
Transplanted ''Aussie'' Glad to see you made it back safe and sound. Kudo's to you for the fine job you did in Haiti, and thank you for representing us.
WorkerBev: Take care of yourself, we want to see you at Sydney, so maintain that positive attitude. The timing is of great importance, especially for people that are flying in to Sydney, or like in your case making reservations for a ferry, but with the help of Jonathon, Bruce, Tony L and a few others, we will know in time when to make the necessary reservations.
I'm on self induced program also, so I'll pray for the both of us.
Trudy, Austria/Australia: Under normal conditions my typing is slow and clumsy, lol , but that sounds serious, I hope it's ok, take care of it, don't let it get infected. Yes, we do have a tendency to take fingers for granted until we damage one, that's when we realize how much we use it because it's always bumping into something.
Sally in Melbourne By the Bay: Loved them Happy Feet.
Sally In Sydney: Liked your Mr. Bigalow story. LOL…Very funny, glad you got your raise.
Well Jessica, I'm very proud of you, it takes a lot of courage, stamina and fortitude to take on the high seas as you are doing. I'm planning on being in Sydney for your home coming, so just look for the guy with the shiny head, maybe you should have your sunglasses on. LoL….
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
- February 4, 2010 at 4:18 AM
- Bob from Seattle said...
Jesse,....Obviously the orange buoy heard you talking about same old, same old, was worried you were being pulled towards complacency, knew you needed a little shake to wake you up and complied.
- February 4, 2010 at 4:25 AM
- jan said...
Phew jesse, that was a bit scary never a dull moment on EPL.you are having a wonderful adventure, thankyou for sharing it with us all.cheers from canterbury nz.
- February 4, 2010 at 4:27 AM
- Babs said...
Thanks for the update Jessica, looks like you will be sailing into the wind soon..do hope the sun shines for you today..
Jersey Shore Mom, USA
- February 4, 2010 at 4:29 AM
- Rob Hardie said...
Hi Jesse,
Another great update. You are certainly covering the miles and making great progress.
You seem in a fantastic frame of mind but always alert and ready for what ever is thrown up at you. That buoy going past is amazing.... You just never know what is out there and what you will see.
Keep enjoying what you are doing.You aresuch a wonderful young lady and the world is your oyster.
Take care and stay safe.
Ingleburn NSW
- February 4, 2010 at 4:42 AM
- Barry Clements said...
I found it for you Jesse, Murphy covers all fields of probability with this lot.
Enjoy and I hope the blog family has a good giggle as well.
Everyone have a great day and look over your shoulder now and then. It's possible Murphy's not in the Atlantic Ocean bothering Jessica today because the weather conditions don't suit and it's too far from land.
Barry Clements
If anything can go wrong, it will.
Murphy was an optimist.
Nothing is as easy as it looks.
Everything takes longer than you think.
If there is a possibility of several things going wrong, the one that will cause the most damage will be the one to go wrong.
Whenever you set out to do something, something else must be done first.
Every solution breeds new problems.
It is impossible to make anything foolproof because fools are so ingenious.
Nature always sides with the hidden flaw.
Left to themselves, things tend to go from bad to worse.
MURPHY'S LAW of LINEAR PROPORTION
Matter will be damaged in direct proportion to its value.
If we have much to lose by having things go wrong, take all possible care.
If we have nothing to lose, relax.
If we have everything to gain, relax.
If it doesn't matter, it doesn't matter.
If you percieve that there are four possible ways in which a procedure can go wrong, and circumvent these, then a fifth way will promptly develop.
Things get worse under pressure.
MURPHY's AIRPLANE LAW
When the plane you are on is late, the plane you want to transfer to is on time.
An object will fall so as to do the most damage.
The chance of the bread falling with the buttered side down is directly proportional to the cost of the carpet.
Smile ... tomorrow will be worse.
Everything goes wrong all at once.
If several things that could have gone wrong have not gone wrong, it would have been ultimately beneficial for them to have gone wrong.
- February 4, 2010 at 4:50 AM
Hi Jess!
I read about your voyage from our daily newspaper, you are famous also here in Finland! I was really suprised when i realised how young you are! It´s great that you can do something you have dreamed about.
I wish you best luck and God´s bless. I will check your site every day.
Sorry my bad english.. :)
Emilia from Finland
- February 4, 2010 at 5:59 AM
- Peter Stockwell said...
You are in the right place at present. I hope you avoid most of the big weather system to the south.
Good luck and stay safe.
Peter and Robyn (UK)
- February 4, 2010 at 6:05 AM
- maxine maroochydore said...
Goodmorning again Jesse, it was good you were gazing out the porthole, hope you didnt get to much of a fright seeing that bouy pass you by, but after what you have been thru, nothing should faze you to much. Hang on tight Jessee thinking of you all the time. Love the pic. God speed Jesse, Maxine and Colin Maroochydore
- February 4, 2010 at 6:06 AM
Hi Jessica! Nice to hear that you have avoided the bad weather but understand you wish to get into the right heading. Also fine that you didn't hit that object in the water. We had another blizzard yesterday here in south Sweden and much snow and traffic problems last night. Best wishes Bo, South Sweden
- February 4, 2010 at 6:21 AM
G'day Jess,
Just wondering if the Agulhas Current is going to be a problem for you. Would you normally sail further south?
Enjoy another day in paradise. :)
- February 4, 2010 at 6:27 AM
- Dave D. said...
Wheres there one Buoy there's more, Oh what fun! Obvious to small for the radar? You and the crew keep safe and no doubt Aunty Sam will create something about what you saw.
Dave, Ak NZ
- February 4, 2010 at 6:29 AM
- Mary, Maine, USA said...
I'm Mary and I'm a Jessaholic!
tee hee......I haven't said that yet!
Hiya, Jess. I'm glad you're sailing right along and noticing changes in bird life as well as checking in with yourself as to how you're feeling. Yup, stay away from Murphy and his Uninspired Laws. Best thing to do is make some chocolate muffins and play some "new to you" music, if possible. Or nap!
Here's to you, Bev! I will definitely keep you in my prayers for the next three months. You WILL go safely to Sydney to see Jess and the Worldwide Family of Local Jessaholics.
Safe and joyous sailing, Jess. You are in my thoughts and I believe in you.
Mary, Maine, USA
- February 4, 2010 at 6:32 AM
Hi Jessica
Thanks for all the blogs. We have a bottle of Champs on ice for when you pass by us here in Cape Town in the next two weeks or so.
Have a look at the following site: Just when you thought that the ocean is empty. It must have been one of he hundreds of weather info buoys. Who nows, your weather router probably downloaded data from that very buoy.
Good sailing
- February 4, 2010 at 6:53 AM
Hi Jessica,
Interesting to read about your doings, as always. You have to watch out now for bouys.
You mention the birds and that it must be some islands close. When I look in your route I think I can see some small white dots between you and Cape Town. Do you know if they are named?
I look forward to hear more about the sextant, and Klas from Swe. has a question if the stars are different than at home? Maybe you have to come more north to see the stars we can see.
Enjoy life and sail on safe.
Ingrid, Tyreso, Sweden.
- February 4, 2010 at 6:55 AM
- Unknown said...
Sounds like the calm before the storm Jesse....
make the most of the quieter times
we have also had some mega beautiful sunsets lately.....and this mornings sunrise wasnt to shabby either.
it been very hot here....the low temp over night was 25.....way too hot for a good nights sleep...smile...but there is rain on the way...woohoo
anyway....you keep on keeping on...and yes no news is definately good news....well in most cases.
keep safe and have some fun
deb and the guineas
- February 4, 2010 at 7:02 AM
Jesse...You Rock!!
Young women like you are modern day heroines. Your courage, bravery and tenacity are awe inspiring. Keep skimming them waves girl. :)
- February 4, 2010 at 7:03 AM
- Sue (this n that) said...
Well that big orange object got your adrenaline pumping again ... for a moment at least!
Yep, there's always something unexpected around the corner, eh!
Nothing you can't handle though Jesse.
Thanks for your update and pic - good sailing.
- February 4, 2010 at 7:07 AM
Hey Jess,
i Can't help feeling you missed an opportunity to have fish on the menu forever. All you had to do was lift that fish trap and help yourself,who would know?,lets face it Jess you're a great sailor but fishing has not been your strong point.hahaha
Stay safe
Berlin Red
- February 4, 2010 at 7:11 AM
- Unknown said...
Jess, I'll trade your "same old, same old" for sitting behind a desk any day...
Keep Enjoying!
Cheers Tim
- February 4, 2010 at 7:13 AM
- Anonymous said...
Jesse, I think what you might have seen was a buoy with radio antenna from a submarine. They are sometimes sent close to the surface for a brief amount of time to receive incoming radio information. Glad to hear that you are making good progress and will soon be home. Gods speed Jesse. firstname.lastname@example.com
- February 4, 2010 at 7:18 AM
- Rob said...
We have that saying in my family, no news is good news. Even though we want to hear news all the time, hearing that you don't have much news is good!
Columbia, Missouri, USA
- February 4, 2010 at 7:19 AM
- Fehmaraner said...
It's funny to read your blog. It seems to me your really enjoying your trip. Even if you have too much or less wind. Maybe If you don't stop in Sidney for one more lap - you take a stop in Hamburg? I'd like to meet this optimistic girl.
Tell me: Had you been afraid when you had these knockdowns?
Wish you good wind!
Axel, Germany
- February 4, 2010 at 7:26 AM
- Sally said...
Good Morning Jesse
Thanks for the lovely photo - the sunset is beautiful and the ocean looks grey and moody. The view from your office is certainly stunning!
I will be praying for some sunshine or clear skies for you so that you can have a fiddle with the sextant that you found. Good luck with that and let us know how you go. I would like to hear more about it.
Same ol' - same ol'.... Staring out the porthole Jesse. I do that at work, stare out the office window wondering what the day is like outside. (Sorry Mr Bigalow!) I am sure that this will change soon enough Jesse. Let's not wish for 'Murphy's Law', although, it seems that you are nearing land with the birds that you are seeing and the near miss with the Buoy. It just goes to show you that there are certain benefits to staring out of the porthole, which proves that it's a good hobby and very useful!!!
Good luck with those predicted winds, we will all be thinking of you and look forward to hearing that you are heading directly east again. There is never a dull moment.
Sydney has copped alot of rain yesterday and overnight, it's been wonderful. More predicted today with grey/blue clouds looming overhead ready to burst. My garden is extremely happy this morning, everything looks so fresh and green.
Thanks for the payrise Mr Bigalow -much appreciated. I will be as dedicated to Jesse blogging as I am to my job - except for the occasional staring out of the window during the day. That's for safety reasons! (It works for Jesse!)
Take care Jesse, have a good day and stay safe.
"Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful"
Albert Schweitzer
"We cannot command nature except by obeying her" Francis Bacon
Sally In Sydney
- February 4, 2010 at 7:29 AM
- magpie said...
Hi Jessica,
☻☻☻ Toughen up Princess ☻☻☻
The only reason you're lolling around is because that poor bloke back in the bunker has been telling you where to go. Sheesh, What is it about buoys (sic) that make you females lose some use of that grey matter? Haven't you watched that show "Survivor?" Every time someone gets cocky they get voted off the island.
Oops time to take my medication
Seriously let me try to regain some...well, you know, lol.
(lol ♣Richie Paris)..."Thanks to Captain Jessica! She yelled at me and at our mate, Otto Pilot, so he helped me rolling on my side, and I went up on my keel and put my mast just in his eye, the bastard!"
"The stars move, the sun moves" - No wonder ♣Amazedbyyou has trouble with the concept of a sextant.( A bit cheeky, sorry ☻)
Sextants are all 'Dutch' to me too, check out this to get the gist. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ibDLPkIHB60
I've gotta go, I'm getting dizzy from all that huffing and blowing, lol.
Onwards to the Cape of Good Hope!
☺☺☺ Hoo Roo ☺☺☺
- February 4, 2010 at 7:58 AM
Once again it's good to hear everything goes well as usual. Thanks for keeping all you friends up to date on your steady progress.
Arnie in Canada
- February 4, 2010 at 8:12 AM
- trentgs said...
Wow! Pink and Orange really don't go together all that well..even though they do seem to use them together in swimsuits alot...but..ok..ok..its' Great that you noticed in time to rescue Parker..(as I recall it was bent a bit in the storm..were you able to straighten it back up..or are you just correcting for the course errors?)..and as for wishing away your life and ..oh..hum..normal is as normal does...that could get you into another dicy mess..so I understand the desire to surf easterly rather than North easterly..and hopefully you will be able to do that soon..after all you're still into the warmer water ..right?..do the currents mess with your setting the course and pretty much riding on 'parker pilot'? Interesting that you are looking at the sextant..Miss Aebi hadn't any recourse when she went around..except of course for that little stint from New York Harbor to St.Johns where she used the RDF (radio direction finder) scaring her Dad when she failed to show after the time he figured she would..so he insisted she learn celestial navigation before getting into the open seas..Thankfully she did..but I can imagine..she set off thinking..I'll just go around the world..and yet she didn't know how to navigate..foolhardy perhaps but she cast off on the strength that she could do anything that she had to..to accomplish the goal..
Your Quota of sunshine?..wait a minute..you get more sunshine as a bonus simply because you're from Australia..I know I heard that somewhere..uh..that you weren't accustomed to fog..er ..uh..because..you come from Queensland..that must be a sunshine extender-a free pass....right? Well Great to know you're still in great spirits and enjoying the ride..about the time it all becomes normal it will change..so keep a close eye on conditions and check your check list to make sure everything is in 'ship shape' including the Captain..Clip on when it starts..and be safe..
Prayers for continued smooth water super breezes, and cupcakes...
Gary & Jan
- February 4, 2010 at 8:14 AM
Hi Jesse
Out of curiosity I had a look at some sextant instructions. All I can say is, if you are able to get even a rough location from your sextant then you will have to add brainy to your already long list of attributes.
I challenge any Jessaholics who are "sextant newbies" to make head or tail about these apparently clear instructions:
Stay clipped on Jesse!! Love your style gal !!
Wellington NZ
- February 4, 2010 at 8:15 AM
nothing wrong with same old same old Jesse!! stay safe and happy sailing :)
- February 4, 2010 at 8:17 AM
Hi Jess,
I showed my 13 year old daughter your blog, as an illustration of what a strong young woman can do. It's the first thing she checks when she gets home from school every day.
You are a fantastic role model for your generation... and there are not many of those around !!!
Well Done
- February 4, 2010 at 8:25 AM
- sails said...
Today's Inspirational Quote:
"The way to succeed is to double your error rate."
-- Thomas J. Watson
Jesse, We both know what Mr.Watson means however can I suggest you apply that inspiration after you get home. ( ha ha )
Keep on "Cruising Along"
- February 4, 2010 at 8:29 AM
- dutchinspace said...
Jess, I am soooo impressed that you have managed to sail halfway around the planet without navigating!!!(using the sextant),and now only because it appeared for you- 'hey remember me? I'm sextant, the navigator???- just thought I'd pop in!!!!'
If Murphy and Newton had been drowned at birth, everything would be so much lighter(due to lack of 'gravity'-Newton),and sh**(crap-faecal matter)wouldn't happen-Murphy!!!! they have lots to answer for!!
Have a nice sunny day and starry night,and don't forget the Moon,it's just as important as the stars-good for tides and stuff and it's there daytime half the month if you know where to look
From duTch (in Briznyland)
- February 4, 2010 at 8:32 AM
- Ailsa said...
Hi Jesse,
Thanks for your updates and the recent sunset photo. How weird to see that orange fishing buoy with aerial wandering past you.
Pity about the wind instruments. Does this mean they won't function again for the rest of the journey? I suppose wind predictions are more important that you'd get from your support crew. I should imagine also that by now you could ascertain the wind by just sniffing.
Take care and stay safe.
cheers for now,
from Melbourne
- February 4, 2010 at 8:35 AM
- Dean James said...
After years at sea myself, you never know what you might encounter Jess. Happy sailing.
Dean and Deb
Sunshine Coast
- February 4, 2010 at 8:36 AM
- pestinfo said...
I am so pleased that you have missed (maybe totally missed, partiality missed, could have missed, maybe missed the big stuff) on that storm.
Sextant stuff, wow! that is worse than English homework. If your doing 7 knots, then the wind has to be 13 to 15 knots. Look at your string.
The string theory--------
String is wet = it's raining
String is cold and hard = it's freezing
String casts a shadow = it's sunny
String is sideways = big wind
String is missing = cyclone
String is straight up = boat capsize
Jessica, enjoy the less aggressive storm and adjust your course to east when you can.
Missing Edinburgh and Gough Islands would be a good idea also.
Your going great.
Best Regards
Allen, H/Bay, Qld, AU
- February 4, 2010 at 8:40 AM
Jesse,you are so right, the unexpected, can always be expected!!!You are making excellent boatspeed on a regular basis,and with the bird population growing in numbers, the Cape of Good Hope must be getting closer.There is still a lot of ocean between you and Sydney,which means we have to keep our mind on the job,taking nothing for granted Jesse.You are doing a magnificent job,and your positive attitude will not only see you complete this adventure,but form the foundation for a lifetime of achievement.Have a great day's sailing Jesse,hope you get some more sunshine.Stay alert,eat well, sleep when you can,stay strong!You are in our thoughts and prayers,Godbless & Godspeed Jesse, looking forward to your next,newsy blog, Dougal
- February 4, 2010 at 8:48 AM
I'm glad your little pink boat missed that little orange bouy out there in that big blue ocean. Go figure you are in the middle of the ocean and miss a bouy by only a meter. Good luck and watch out for those little things.
Tony from Texas
- February 4, 2010 at 8:53 AM
- Unknown said...
RichieParis, I love your idea of a sound system playing the Charge of the Light Brigade whenever Jessie ventures on deck. Very inventive! The cold nose on the dog was appropriate for the circumstances.
Jessie, you have a large audience who love your spirit and your strength. You really are a legend.
Ian from Brisbane
- February 4, 2010 at 8:56 AM
- Bruce S said...
Hi Jess
Addicted here again ;o))
I always see the fishing buoys after we pass them, especially after my powder eggs ... it is safer that way.
Thanks for the update and sunset pic.
@ Mark...(http://metvuw.com) ... great site, thanks.
@ Grant thanks for the "www.youtube.com/watch?v=lpuYBrDbcMw"
it cheers me up everytime I listen.
Jess keep up! and know
your everyone is wishing you positive thoughts.
Bruce Stanley/Sydney
- February 4, 2010 at 9:04 AM
Hi Jessica,
Glad things are going smoothly, if not a bit mundane but a little quiet time is all good!
Having had to change to more north easterly direction is that going to add more days to your journey or were you so far ahead of time you had some up your sleeve, so to speak?
Again, how is the FISHING? You don't sound like a keen fisherperson!!!! All that ocean and no fish!!! C'mon Jess you can do it, I want to see a pic of a decent one, not too big though.
Keep smiling and safe sailing, love reading your updates and know that you are moving along nicely. bye for now.
- February 4, 2010 at 9:10 AM
Hey Jess,
Ahh..Same 'ol same'ol - and i wish i knew what normal was these days !
Hang in there and expect the unexpected when you least expect it !
"If I traveled to the end of the rainbow -
As Dame Fortune did intend,
Murphy would be there to tell me - The pot's at the other end"
Keep on keeping on Jess
You're a legend
- February 4, 2010 at 9:12 AM
Jessica, you are an inspiration to all. You may not have realized,I have observed, that your journey is more than a remarkable sailing feet by a courageous, smart, determined young woman. This adventure exposes the truth to all who are following you. We are united as one human race, desiring to experience all the excitement, joy, beauty, challenge, and fears, through you. Thank you, for this gift.
- February 4, 2010 at 9:12 AM
Great to hear from you! I'm glad to hear, also, you have a sextant on board and some mind of how to use it. Never know when technology may fail and you have to do things the old fashioned way. Smooth sailing and watch out for those sneaky orange bouys!
- February 4, 2010 at 9:12 AM
Hello again Jesse,
@ Daphne Feb 3 10.08pm
Thats a great point you made Daphne regarding Jesse still being upbeat and well and truly enjoying her voyage at the half way point when things can get a little tough. Thats out girl.
@ Kees, Doetinchem, the Netherlands Feb 3 10.54pm Thanks for the "hello". Good to hear from you.
@ Klas, Sweden Feb 3 11.27pm. Re what Jesse misses the most - if you refer to Jesse's blog post on Thurs, Jan 21 2010 Jesse has listed what she misses the most, it's lovely reading.
Jesse, I hope you can work out the sextant, what an accomplishment being able to navigate without computers in case of a power failure. Talk about being at one with nature - amazing.
Happy sailing Jesse
Bluefin (Annie) Buderim Queensland.
- February 4, 2010 at 9:17 AM
- Kev said...
You're going well Jesse and your notes continue to be so interesting and so well expressed.
Best wishes for happy and safe sailing.
Cheers, Kev, Forestville, 2087, Oz.
- February 4, 2010 at 9:20 AM
- Astroglide_Australia said...
Look out illegal fisherman
- February 4, 2010 at 9:24 AM
Hi Jessica
See little EPL heading Northwards and escaping the bad weather below, what a smart little boat. She is looking after you!
Hopefully, you can soon turn Eastwards and head towards the beautiful Cape of Good Hope.
Fancy that orange buoy popping up in the middle of the ocean … glad he didn't mess with Parker.
We are thinking of you as you might just encounter some rough weather soon, as predicted, but hold on tight - you will once again come shining through. You are a STAR!
Fay from the Gold Coast
- February 4, 2010 at 9:26 AM
Hey Jess, Sounds like your moving along just nicely! Had a chat with your dad yesterday Mark Karla and Me are all planning on coming to Sydney for your return!!!!
Keep up the good work
Brooke Mark and Karla
Mooloolaba Marina
- February 4, 2010 at 9:30 AM
- keco said...
Hellos again Jessica,
I don't think my last comment got through. No idea why. So here go's again.
Glad to hear all is going well for you.
You trying to make a habit of running thing's over. First the ship at the start line,,ha ha ha ha, sorrey now some one's yellow toy. Did'nt stop to have a look at it did you ????
So, you found your sextent, good one. Next best thing to GPS. Keep ya hand in lady of the sea you might need it now you sadi the name of the gremiln. MURPHY...argh.
Hope it don't start going pear shape now you are so well.
Take care Jesse. thinking of you all the time out there on your own.
Safe sailing PINK lady.
Old Keco...xx
- February 4, 2010 at 9:31 AM
G'day Jess
So you had a surprise with an orange thingo...fishing/weather bouy or whatever, how about this. My mate found a platypus in the middle of the road early this morning on his run. It was a male not fully grown so he could pick it up. The road is one of the busiest in Dubbo and if had been an hour later no doubt it would have been squashed. It was at least a K from the river, anyway the Zoo people have it now. We are lucky to have our huge Zoo in Dubbo to look after sick animals. So surprises all 'round. Watch out for "islands"!!!!! Glad all is well
Is the plural of platypus platypus..yes it is and I argue about this all the time as we have a footy team locally who call themselves the Platypi...ouch
Sea ya
Dusty from Dubbo
- February 4, 2010 at 9:40 AM
- Mike_trrac said...
Hi Jess
Great post.
Just consider it from the bouy's point of view...
There I was miles from anywhere just doing my job, minding my own business, floating around fishing when out of the blue comes this hoon in a pink racer at 7 knots and nearly ran me over, Isn't a buoy safe anywhere?....
Leave the buoys alone Jess you're far too tough a cookie for them.
cheers and fair winds (and sunshine)
Mike (Avoca Beach)
- February 4, 2010 at 9:55 AM
Jessica, your little video of rounding Cape Horn touched my heart. I could almost feel your excitement. "Wow!" you said. Wow, indeed. What a wonderful feeling that must have been.
When I was your age, I made friends with an unknown Frenchman who came sailing into Durban. His name was Bernard Moitessier and we went on to become quite famous, doing just what you're doing.
Bernard would have been very proud to know you. One thing he told me, which I guess you know, is never to rely on your lifelines. He didn't even have any. "Learn to cling like a monkey," he said. Which he did. So he never went overboard, of course. His big problem was falling asleep,running into reefs and wrecking his boats. We all have our weak points, I guess.
Wishing you all the best and keep up the good work.
- February 4, 2010 at 10:03 AM
- Trudy said...
Hello Jessica,
I am thrilled.....another sign of life from you! :-)
This same old, same old, with cruising along at 6 to 7 knots and bliss time we can extend longer........
The sun will come out again and you will get your chance to practice with the sextant, pretty exciting!!!!
I have yet to learn that..... next is navigating for me (day skipper).
The sunset is lovely particularly the colour play on the ocean near Ella.
Those buoys, they just can't leave you alone, maybe
you are a magnet to them!
I wonder....... lol
At least your feathered friends are keeping you company, other than your mate Ella, the ocean, the wind, the sky.........
In spite of all the terrific advice you get from our passionate fishermen and women here, don't bother Jessica, if you don't want to fish, I frankly prefer the fish swimming in the ocean and enjoying their life, maybe you do too!
Sail on Captain Watson, safe and sound and at a good pace,
Trudy, Austria/Australia
- February 4, 2010 at 10:06 AM
Jesse,you are so right, the unexpected, can always be expected!!!You are making excellent boatspeed on a regular basis,and with the bird population growing in numbers, the Cape of Good Hope must be getting closer.There is still a lot of ocean between you and Sydney,which means we have to keep our mind on the job,taking nothing for granted Jesse.You are doing a magnificent job,and your positive attitude will not only see you complete this adventure,but form the foundation for a lifetime of achievement.Have a great day's sailing Jesse,hope you get some more sunshine.Stay alert,eat well, sleep when you can,stay strong!You are in our thoughts and prayers,Godbless & Godspeed Jesse, looking forward to your next,newsy blog, Dougal
- February 4, 2010 at 10:07 AM
- Flash said...
I admire your writing skills, Jessica. As a blogger I know that some boring days can take away all the inspiration!
The same old thing day after day as you mentioned it - and still you're goin' strong keepin' us followers updated. More than this: it's always a nice reading and gives a feeling of "being part of it all"!
Keep your state of mind up as good as possible, you know how. It's not so much around you to watch but the lack of any change focuses your senses on the tiny little things we otherwise aill overlook.
Looking down in a birds eye view on EPL it will look like a teeny-weeny item, but coming close it holds a whole world!
Too much philosophy now, I have to stop. Wish you well, Jessica, go get the next leg!
Happy sailing, be blessed,
Stefan (Germany)
- February 4, 2010 at 10:19 AM
Hi Jess,
Just checking in to read your blog like I do every day!
Love the picture!
Keep having the time of your life!!
Jen (Victoria, Australia)
- February 4, 2010 at 10:32 AM
Hi Jessie the mighty sailor!!
Good to hear about the smooth sailing you've had these last few days. I also just got a buzz to study the star systems on my ceiling wall with one of those home constellation kits with background music and commentaries on each constellation....now all I need to do is go by some batteries for the light bulb, and get my pillow and blanket and enjoy our night time sky. But nothing like the real kick and kaboodle like you have under some of your starry nights. Which constellations do you see from your perspective?
Well, keep up that positive attitude! We all are following you here in michigan!
Love and Steady Winds, Jenny, Rosie, Gypsy, Tigger and Barbara and neighbors, Jackie and Ed.
- February 4, 2010 at 10:37 AM
- Dukehaus said...
Howdy and hearty Congrats, Jesse!! 1250 nm. down..way to sail! Homeward bound! And no, I don't think you can just wave as you go by Sydney and sail around again. Maybe just give the fam BIG HUGS, get a hot shower, some sleep, do about a thousand interviews, some new provisions and just before you get your land legs back....THAT'S when you head out again!!
Doesn't it just seem like just when you think things are getting a little boring is when they are usually about to change. Remember being becalmed in the Southern Ocean for 3 days?? So glad Parker, EPL and you missed the fishing buoy, but we are still was waiting to hear that you caught another fish! From the looks of Google Earth you are making awesome progress, 120 nm a day!! Dream sailing, except for the no sun part.
You are so admired and loved and what an inspiration!
The candle is lit, the prayers continue and again, we wish you safe sailing!
Love from Kim & Bill,
Wyoming, USA
p.s. Thsnkf ro the great pic. Have you seen a green flash??
- February 4, 2010 at 10:40 AM
- Kissyfrott said...
Good night Captain Jesse,
You are probably sailing fast with consistent easterly winds, and not sleeping much for a while.
Your map shows a new progress... toward East this time. But no new blog, no new entries issued yet.
It must be about 10 pm where you are, and dark too.
Maybe you have a nice moonlight, with two thirds of a moon, if there are not too many clouds.
I hope you can get some rest though, and that your feet will not wake you up. I think they need a good walk. Good news: you will be walking and running on a beach this very year! Just in a few months!
I notice you don't give us many details about your schoolwork. No wonder you are not fond of it, but no need being shy with your adopted parents and grandparents, we know everything about that plague. But you know, if our ancestors hadn't take the time to study and make the efforts to learn, we would still be apes, pigs or fishes (our cousins).
OK, let's change of subject, I see your feet are itching... DON'T RUN AWAY! You would take a cold bath!
Why wouldn't you tell us more about your fluffy friends, and introduce them all to your community?
Nothing to be shy of again; we all had and even have some around us!
Good night, SuperCaptain! See ya tomorrow!
@Sally in Melbourne: Your porthole view is flabbergasting!!! and lovely, too!
- February 4, 2010 at 10:41 AM
- Bruce S said...
Hi Jessica and ALL
latest Sunset Pic ... the windvane upper arm seems to be on an angle?
Is this normal?
what am i not understanding?
Bruce Stanley /Sydney
- February 4, 2010 at 10:47 AM
- Bruce from Brisvegas said...
Hi Jess
Never a dull moment!!! You take your eyes off the sea and somebody elses stuff wants to create hassles for you. Thank goodness Parker is OK.
It is good to hear that you can start heading east again. So long as 12knots doesn't turn into 70.
Sail safe, sail fast.
Best wishes
- February 4, 2010 at 10:53 AM
- danma said...
Hey Jess,
Good to see that all is well, don't get to complacent I am sure that it will not be all smooth sailing.....
I love to see that you have posted even my Dad is asking how is Jess going??? I read your posts to the kids the youngest is hoping that you come into Sydney on a school day as I promised him the day off to be there with you. Now I am getting ahead of myself.
Knuckle down get that job finished & we will see you soon.
As always stay safe & happy sailing.
- February 4, 2010 at 10:56 AM
You are cruising right along, girl! Any estimates as to whether you are a bit ahead of schedule? Love to see the photos you post- helps me to put myself there with you in spirit :) -Karyn, IN, USA
- February 4, 2010 at 10:59 AM
- Joanne van Os said...
Those buoys... it always amazes me how the only floating object in the whole ocean ends up on a collision course with you. It's happened to us many times too. Even more amazing is how often they just miss! On a much smaller scale, my favourite 'just missed' was a rubber thong with a crab sitting on it, near northern Sulawesi last year. We wondered how far he'd floated!
Enjoy the calm weather while you can, Jess. How's the homework going? And have the dolphins visited again?
Take care, and rest up for when the wind comes in again.
Darwin NT Australia
- February 4, 2010 at 11:11 AM
Great work Jess....may you have smooth seas and strong winds...
- February 4, 2010 at 11:25 AM
- PWB said...
Girl who sail pink boat,
always have friend in lieu
Mr. CON-FUSE-YOU, PLANET HYDEN WA AUST.
- February 4, 2010 at 11:28 AM
- Unknown said...
Hi Jesse, Unlike elephants human beings have short memories. After some stressful situations we get a little sun, a little extra sleep, some good food in our bellies and things start feeling 'same ole, same ole'. This is not a bad thing but a good thing for our mental wellbeing. That guy Murphy was he by any chance an Aussie or just an honorary one. I wish I had a hundred dollars for every time I had to check a spelling in the dictionary. I would be able to buy my boat with that money since you left Sydney. I just saw a news report on the TV about a catamaran made with recycled plastic bottles and a sails made of plastic that left California and is headed for Sydney, Au. They are figuring on a two to three month voyage. Wouldn't that be something if you both sail into Sydney harbor together?!!! Just when you think you are out in this big wide ocean by ourself and you can let your guard down along comes this run away buoy and almost causes a problem (Damn that Murpghy, he's everywhere). Sail safe Jesse and try and stay as vigilant as possible. Your long distant friend Larry (email@example.com)
- February 4, 2010 at 11:33 AM
Hi Captain Watson; That is a great picture of the fish you caught this morning! You forgot to mention what species it is. Perhaps your followers can identify it. How are you going to prepare it? Smooth Sailing
Vancouver, Canada
- February 4, 2010 at 11:38 AM
Jess - I reckon you are an absolute legend. I love reading your updates and can't wait each day to see how you are going. Stay safe and enjoy the journey due East!
- February 4, 2010 at 11:45 AM
Hi Jesse,
Every time I see one of your photos of EPL out in the middle of nowhere with all that ocean around, I am amazed all over again at your courage. I have now advanced from checking on you every day to checking on you twice a day (or more).
Steady progress, stay safe. You're incredible.
Continued best wishes to you.
San Diego
- February 4, 2010 at 11:51 AM
- PWB said...
Hi Jesse,
As my mother always used to say:
................................"Buoys will be Buoys"
Sail like the wind.
Peter Bush, HYDEN, WA, AUSTRALIA
- February 4, 2010 at 11:51 AM
Hi Jesse - I have no problem with your quiet life. From my point of view I'm happier when things are that way for you. Don't be disappointed the sunshine will return and the Sextant can be brought out for a bit of a test run. See, I told you to stay in the moment because you never know when the odd stay object, etc is floating around out there; please remain vigilant, it's critically important.
Don't be impatient the weather will subside soon enough and you can get back on a more direct easterly course. In the meantime, the way things are is the safe way and that's the most important criterion to satisfy.
'til next time precious one be patient, keep the mind on the job and bring all the maintenance up to date for as demonstrated in the last storm having everything in order stood you in good stead when the challenge struck. Love ya, and god bless!!
- February 4, 2010 at 11:52 AM
I am sure you have this but it might show any problem obsticals like Bouys. Note the track of (Name unknown)Vessel QS3169. It looked like it was on an intersect course for a while. http://www.sailwx.info/shiptrack/shiplocations.phtml
- February 4, 2010 at 12:04 PM
- lilshawnee said...
Hi Jesse,good your having a good time,i see your post and vidios and all pics every time you post them.
Just because of you sailing i stated my web site and now im in the hunt for lil bella my sail boat lol
Well keep up the good work and sail safe have fun be good,
See you on your next post,,,,
your friends Robert,Ellen,Alison and Autumn
God Bless
- February 4, 2010 at 12:10 PM
- sunfish550 said...
Jess-o-holic is sooo right!
I lost my internet connection for 3
days here, no jess news. anxiety meter continued to rise. turns out, I had a house full of wrong cable-splitters. cable guy chuckled and said NO NO NO to walmart splitters, they are incompatible! your system will eventually degrade, and it did, it crashed!
I was embarrassed about my handiwork...
cable guy chuckled again.
Oh yes jess, Tabasco IS the foodsaver, same with salsa. a boat crammed full of Ramen noodles
can also double as 'flotation' as they 'puff up' and expand, lol.
lori, in Brisbane, we surely will miss you, because you share slices of australian life with us, language,daily life... I have never felt more of a connection with australian, tassie, new zealand folks, as i have thru jessica's adventure. Bless ALL the blogging family, for it has opened a whole 'nother world of touching base with the human condition.
be careful out there OK?
lenny Pittsburgh PA.
- February 4, 2010 at 12:11 PM
- Mike_trrac said...
Hi Jessl
After my last post, while walking the dog the orange buoy theme kept going round in my head so I thought I'd have a second go.
RichieParis could certainly improve on the theme with an interview parceque son anglais est un peu meilleur de moi meme and his imagination is immeasurably more fantastic! But here goes .....
Letter to the editor (blogmaster?)
from: Mr. Orange (aka "Roughie) Buoy - the grumpy old man
Subject: "Whats wrong with the youth of Today"
Dear Captain
The other day I was quietly fulfilling my duties of guarding the pedestrian (finestrian?) crossing in the southern ocean waiting for the small fry to cross over to their "school".
Suddenly, out of the blue, came this human teenager (Jessica I'm told) hooning along the sea lane in her little pink racer (number plate EPL 007) doing an outrageous 7 knots in a 4 knot school zone. She wasn't even at the wheel - probably below decks having a party with the other scallywags. She just missed me by less than a metre otherwise I would now be chatting to Davey in his locker down below. You could have knocked me down with a barge pole I was so scared but its a bit deep for bargepoles here.
I just want to say that the youth of today are far too wild and have no respect for us for us old codgers or the sea state. They think they can chase bouys round the world any time they please. I reckon they should be packed off to sea to learn some water rules - Cape Horn sounds a good idea. The only problem is that their numbers will grow (tripled already with others like Abby and Laura being sent out for retraining in sea rules) and they will just clog the sea lanes causing Southern Ocean grid lock. The ocean administration (NOAA I think it's called) should do something about it. She may be redeemable though 'cause at least she leaves the poor old fish alone.
yours fincerely
(Tristan da Cuhna Road, South Atlantic)
Mike (Avoca Beach, Australia)
- February 4, 2010 at 12:12 PM
Jess, I've been following your trip daily and like to look up the Islands etc. as you go pass, I notice your coming up on to Tristian de Cunha which is 2000ks from anywhere and the most isolated inhabited insland in the world.So I'm improving my knowledge following you around the world.Good sailing and keep safe.
Budda..Wollongong NSW
- February 4, 2010 at 12:32 PM
- Unknown said...
Hey, Jessica. Nice going. I'm enjoying reading your blog from the comfort of my office chair.
You on the other hand are out there living your dream. Congratulations!
You're an amazing young woman and an inspiration to us all. Good sailing.
- February 4, 2010 at 12:42 PM
This is a transcript of part of the interview Jess had with Australian television just before she sailed
JULIE WATSON: See you later. You have a lovely time.
JESSICA WATSON: That's the plan.
JULIE WATSON: Don't forget to enjoy it.
ROGER WATSON: Don't forget to phone home.
CHARLES WOOLEY: Bloody kids, they're a worry aren't they?
JULIE WATSON: Yeah, our problem child.
ROGER WATSON: I think if anyone can do it, you can.
JESSICA WATSON: That's the plan.
ROGER WATSON: I'm very proud of you and what you've done already.
JESSICA WATSON: Yeah, I know.
ROGER WATSON: If it doesn't go any further, don't worry. You've done so much.
CHARLES WOOLEY: This is by no means the usual coming-of-age journey. Jessica's setting out to do what no 16-year-old has never done before.
JESSICA WATSON: The record I'm aiming for is to be the youngest person to sail solo, non-stop, and unassisted around the world. But I keep saying it the record's really just an excuse. It's an excuse to sail around the world, you know, by myself, as a 16-year-old. And one of the things people ask is - why now? But that's one of the things I want to do. I want to sail around the world by myself as a 16-year-old, as a teenager.
ROGER WATSON: But more than the boat being prepared, I think Jessica is probably the most prepared skipper.
CHARLES WOOLEY: How prepared are the parents?
JULIE WATSON: Oh, we take that as it comes.
CHARLES WOOLEY: The short career path to Jessica's bold ambition, rises out of an unconventional childhood. The Watsons, Julie and Roger, raised their four kids largely out of caravans, camp grounds or sailing boats. And for at least half of her short life, Jessica has been at the helm.
JESSICA WATSON: It took me a couple of years to actually enjoy sailing. I used to be petrified to put my feet in the water. So I was the one kind of tagging along behind everyone else and going because they were going.
CHARLES WOOLEY: So what happened?
JESSICA WATSON: Well, if anything, I started, you know, started dreaming about doing this and it wasn't so scary any more, I suppose. (DRAMATIC MUSIC)
JESSICA WATSON: Across the Indian Ocean under Australia, under Tassie and back to Sydney. If you say it really quick and then it's...
CHARLES WOOLEY: Yeah, sensational. And this will be the bad bit - down here of course?
JESSICA WATSON: Well, I mean you don't really know where you're gonna cop a bad storm.
CHARLES WOOLEY: Come hell and high water, Jessica's fortunes will ride on the integrity of this tidy 10.5m vessel - 'Ella's Pink Lady'. Sturdy and stout but still shapely. Jessica, she's beautiful.
JESSICA WATSON: Yes, very cute.
CHARLES WOOLEY: She's curvy and beamy and lots of room in there for you.
JESSICA WATSON: Yeah, just the right amount of room, but, yeah, a very cute boat.
CHARLES WOOLEY: Though by my inclinations - just right for a Sunday sail but I don't know whether I'd go around the world in it?
JESSICA WATSON: No, it's just the right size. It's just perfect for me to handle.
CHARLES WOOLEY: Because the point is handling, isn't it?
JESSICA WATSON: Yeah.
CHARLES WOOLEY: There's no point having a 60-footer out there if you're a a lone sailor.
JESSICA WATSON: No, she's tough, so, you know, it doesn't matter - you just go up over the waves.
- February 4, 2010 at 1:05 PM
About the Sextant....
1. Point at Horizon
2. Release
3. Bring Sun into Horizon
4. Read Setting
Now the important part:
5. Write down setting
6. Place in Pocket
7. Go Below
8. Check Compass, Read Radar
9. Recycle paper in pocket
10. Your Done
Ten easy steps......
Glad to see you are getting some rest before the horn. And is sounds like the "Buoys" are back in town. (my apologies to Thin Lizzy)
Great Lakes Guy, Michigan, USA
- February 4, 2010 at 1:44 PM
HEY HOWDY HO! JESSICA! I BET ONE THING YOU TOTALLY FORGOT! A SEAMAN'S BEST FRIEND OR SEAWOMAN! A :HARMONICA"! "o my darling" o my darling"" clementine"!
- February 4, 2010 at 2:01 PM
- Phycsailor said...
Thanks for your posts I enjoy them!
I like reading about the sea life and your descriptions of the sea and the sky. I have seen lots of beautiful sunsets over Lake Huron during over night races and equally beautiful sunrises.
Hope you avoid the big air. Stay safe and sail fast!
- February 4, 2010 at 2:15 PM
- JH said...
Hey Jess
So good to hear another good report, just keep looking out for those strange things out there, you have had enough excitement with the storm I am sure you do not need any other bad issues to handle.
Have my fingers crossed the weather stays kind for you and sailing ahead is all smooth.
Take care and I await your next report.
- February 4, 2010 at 2:47 PM
- Philip said...
Sextants are nice to use. And yes, you do need the sun to work it for the most part.
The fishing buoy sounds interesting too. Who would have expect that in the middle of the ocean far away from land?
I do know of the islands you are talking about. Tristan da Cunha is not too far away from you. So that could be where the buoy was from and the different birds as well.
Can't wait to hear Grant's new song either. The first 2 are beautiful to listen to.
- February 4, 2010 at 2:54 PM
Same ole, same ole stays only as long as something else comes along and it sure looks like something's come along for you.
I've been away a couple of days helping to look after 2 of my 7 beautiful grandchildren; the older, a girl and her almost 3 year old brother. They're such gems Jesse but the boy gets into somewhat more scenarios than most little boys. It's quite an adventure for someone my age to be on the alert every waking moment.
I wonder if he'll be an adventurer like you, and Abby, and Rob McAlister (and others) ... time will tell.
Take care little sweetheart.
- February 4, 2010 at 3:05 PM
Texas 11:09pm 02.03.10
Captain Jesse the Explorer
Dear Captain Jesse,
Just finished reading the "family" blog. Never a dull moment. You have made us smile,laugh,cry with happiness & compassion,swell with pride of you, shown us adventure, courage, grace and in doing all this, made a world tribe of us- the Tribe of Jesse.
You really are wonderful. Sail on Good Captain Jesse, with the angels of our better nature and the dolphins of the sea.
Good Night,
Ben of Texas
- February 4, 2010 at 3:20 PM
- gsimmons said...
Hi Jessica
You know Jesse that Murphy is always just around the corner, so you should always be careful you say and wish for, he will come and bite you on the b.. if you are not careful.
It's about time you got that sextant out, I have never used one myself, but you, in your suituation, you need to keep in practice, let us know how close you got to your position?
The weather and wind still looks perfect at the moment, ho, I forgot about Murphy, so I won't say to much on that front.
You are amazing, still bumping into b-oys out there, you will have to get your mind back on the main game, only kidding. These fishing buoys could cause some damage if they got caught up on EPL, can you pick them up on your radar, or do you only have it on when you need it?
So get back to making some good easterly direction, keep having fun and KEEP SAFE.
Cheers George Simmons
Lots of love
Exmouth WA Australia
- February 4, 2010 at 3:22 PM
Skip'Ohoy.Captain Jessica.Here we go again,those darn buoys dont want to let you go,do they?.Hope this is the last time you see them.Yes,go ahead and do that sextant ting that will be a nice little drill for you.If you do fishing and get some,just remember those sharp fishbones.In the area you are you have 23 species of seabirds,maybe more.Was out just now for a break and I could see the half Moon up there,guess you can se it too.G'day.G-d speed and fair winds.From:Herman.Hampstead.NH.USA.
- February 4, 2010 at 3:35 PM
- Tony L said...
Hi Jessica
Thanks for the update. Congratulations for passing your 12,500nm mark, and for achieving an average of 120nm per day for the past week. You and Ella's Pink Lady seem to be bounding along beautifully.
I'm glad to hear you have respect for Murphy. When we forget him he usually allows us to get into difficulty – especially when out at sea. I suspect he sometimes pretends to be the evil side of King Neptune. Murphy would have had much to say about your encounter with the rogue buoy which you presumably passed minutes after mentioning him. Murphy must also be psychic!
That buoy would not want to tango with Parker – he'd have to take you on in Parker's defence, and I know you and Parker would win.
I hope you succeed in attempting to use your sextant, even if it is really only an academic exercise. Obviously, when the weather is suitable, you might find it challenging to check your sextant position with your GPS position. Good luck. I think it must be very difficult to get an accurate reading from a small boat moving almost unpredictably, but I suppose the 'ball-park' figures that might be obtained would enable some chart plotting sufficient to provide an indication of proximity to danger.
Continue to make good progress, enjoy the company of your winged friends, talk to the dolphins, and bounce along in harmonious rhythm with Ella's Pink Lady.
Tony L (Mt Martha VIC)
- February 4, 2010 at 3:51 PM
- samurai said...
Hey there Jess, I hope you're well.
Thanks for the update with another beaut sunset pic. I can just imagine how much more beautiful it would have been through your eyes.
I've finally caught up with all your latest news...the sneak preview of your book is excellent and promises to be an unputdownable read. Then this morning I came across your wall chart and was immediately inspired to beam your scallywag crew ashore on promotional duties. :-)) Your chart looks absolutely fantastic! 'm sure they'll sell very well.
How exciting that you have a sextant to play around with. I was taught how to use one by an amazing and wonderful sailor, many moons ago, and I remember my first sighting was only .02 of a mile off. Granted, it was a near perfect day which was much easier than your conditions out there at the moment. They're a fascinating tool and well worth learning to use properly. Good on you!
Sounds like you're progressing along very nicely doing 6-7knots and peeling at least 120nm a day off your track. I hope the strong winds that you're anticipating will serve to move you further along favourably without too much discomfort.
Reading your post script reminded me of times when I was sailing extended passages and tuning in to the 1700 weather scheds each day. Once in a while there'd be warnings put out of containers that had fallen off bulk carriers floating around in the middle of the ocean. When you're in the vacinity of one of those, I imagine it would indeed keep you on your toes. Scary stuff!! I wonder if that great big orange float with an aerial floating past EPL wasn't a weather type device. Did you happen to notice a little tiny solar panel on it as well? Lucky Parker didn't tip over it, huh?
Take care, stay safe, alert, continue enjoying yourself and bye for now...Aunty Sam XX
Dear Stephen M,
Welcome back! I'm glad to hear you're safe and also much richer for you experience. You're a good man, I applaud you. XX
- February 4, 2010 at 4:22 PM
- rod said...
good day captain jesse,
thank goodness you, elle and parker managed to avoid the floating mine.
i hope all is well with you, from your last two blogs you sound a little bit down.
you must remember, you are a legend to us followers, if we didn't have you we would just be sitting around doing nothing, instead we all jump on the internet after a hard days or nights work looking for your blog.
speaking for myself i enjoy travelling with you, i look forward one day to meeting you and your family up at the sunshine coast.
today i returned back to hard work, i was forced because of illness , back in march 2009 to stop working because some how i contracted a condition known as "postherpetic neauralgia", its not contagious, its a nerve problem in my head .
anyway you take care young lady.
blackbutt qld
for over 10 months i have suffered, however i still find time to check out a favourite on my computer, the favourite that i check is known as jessica watson. thanks for allowing me to sail with you.
sorry to have waffled on for so long,
just remember we all love you.
- February 4, 2010 at 5:50 PM
Hurray for going halfway across the Altantic. Be careful and alert out there...sound like there is a some stuff floating out there! Still tracking you here in Europe!
Dora and Rachel
- February 4, 2010 at 5:50 PM
Hi Jess,
keep up them dodgers,
Jony the Pony
- February 4, 2010 at 6:24 PM
Haha, buoys will be buoys hey!! I reckon them sailor "buoys" from Argentinian & Chilean navy are keeping a closer eye on you than you know ... better get used to it young lady 'cos you're the pin up girl of many a buoy blogger on this site. Fabulous!!
- February 4, 2010 at 6:28 PM