I suddenly thought this morning 'I wonder where that girl is'.

Googled Jessica and up came her website.

She blogged on the 18th that she was 600nm from Good Hope, so she will be soon on the home straight. But don't start cheering just yet as the Southern Ocean has a treacherous reputation, and will be no Sunday afternoon cruise.

Hope plenty of yatchies are planning to head West to meet and escort her home. Sydney had soon start planning a reception.

When I first heard of this 16 year old girl wanting to sail solo round the world, I thought 'what a silly girl', thinking of all the dangers. Glad it was not my daughter. But when she started she had my best wishes.

Now I have nothing but admiration.

Stick with it young lady you are an inspiration!

Dear Banjo,

I second everything you expressed.

I too did not want her to sail. And thought her parents
were being foolish (and brave) to respect her wishes
and let her go.

My heart's still a bit uneasy -
but finger-crossed she makes it
Safe and Sound!
What a home-coming that will be!

My prayers are for her safe return to these
shores and her family.

I have not read anything from Jessica for a few days now either Banjo and although understandable I become concerned as have been logging onto Jessicas site for a long time. Also updating my children on her blogs.

A lump forms in my throat as I put myself in her shoes out there. How many adults in Australia would be so brave at Jessica's age with her background and interest in sailing. Not many have obviously. It is a fantastic credit to Jessica and just as importantly, an inspiration to all of us back home [adults and children].

Years ago when caught one day in a 2-4 metre swell in a 17 foot boat with the motor 'seriously' bogging in between two major rocks with a southerly blowing [worrying as two children on board at the time], I clearly recall thinking at the time "why the heck couldnt the husband have purchased a sailing boat instead of this fishing boat".

The weather forecast had been checked by both he and I the evening beforehand. I had stated "no" to the fishing in between rocks and watched and communicated the swells. The tuna fish were too great for him to turn down.

Two valuable lessons were learned that day many years ago. Check the forecast daily [same day] and do not venture in between large rocks fishing; especially with children!

My respect has deepened for the sea and yachts ever since.

As others have said, I too was worried about her going (though not opposed to it) and have been attentive to her progress - anxious and teary-proud of her at the same time. I can't imagine how much more extreme these same feelings are for her parents or how they're managing. I am in awe of the whole family.

Prayers for her safe return. I know I will be on a high on the day that she finally sails in safe and sound.

Go Jessica!

Oh and just wanted to add that reading about Jessica's sponsors and sponsorships was really interesting too. Just click through from her site. I've been doing that. I'm not sure if it helps her but I thought there's a chance that I might be doing something supportive for her.

Now only 250 nautical miles to round the Cape and head for home.

I can't help cheering her on.

Go girl