Donna Lange the Musician, the Sailor

Supplemental Log Notes
and Archived entries

Donna's trip journal was enhanced for the second half of her journey by technology provided by GMC, Global Marine Networks. Log entries since New Zealand have been made direct to the website and can be viewed on the Status Update page. All other supplemental contributions are archived on this page.

             She sailed
      'Round the World,
      and found herself

        The Providence Journal,
              by Alex Kuffner
        Sunday, April 29, 2007

BRISTOL — Over 17 months and across 31,000 nautical miles, Donna Lange sailed the world in search of something. Peace. Understanding. It’s hard for her to describe what she was looking for.

Whatever it may be, she found it in the midst of a storm.

A fierce northeaster — the same one that slammed into New England two weeks ago — struck 300 miles west of Bermuda during the final leg of Lange’s solo circumnavigation of the globe. She was on her way from the Virgin Islands to Bristol, returning to the port she sailed from in 2005 when she began her unlikely journey.

Early one morning, with rain pelting down and 55-knot winds gusting around her, a 40-foot wave broke over her small sailboat, Inspired Insanity, tipping it onto one side. The 28-foot boat was submerged and could have capsized, but in that perilous position Lange didn’t feel any fear.

“When I was in those conditions, I was completely at peace,” she says. “Those issues of life and death, I’d settled them.”

Pat Henry, First American Woman to Circumnavigate the World Solo via the Canals, and Donna Lange

The boat righted itself, but the automatic steering system was severely damaged. A sea anchor that was stabilizing the boat had also snapped off in the surge. Lange decided to turn away from the tempest. For the next 36 hours, she manually steered the boat through churning seas to safety in Bermuda. By the time she arrived, after four days in the storm, she could barely move her sore and stiffened arms. “That storm was meant to happen,” she says, her weather-beaten face crinkling into a smile. “It finally revealed to me that I was a damn good sailor.”

Lange spoke Friday afternoon in the Topside Lounge, a hangout for fishermen and sailors overlooking Bristol Harbor. She flew into Rhode Island earlier in the week to celebrate the successful completion of her trip. Although she has yet to bring her boat back to Bristol, she has technically finished her journey. In 2005, on her way to Bristol to begin the circumnavigation, she sailed from Tortolla in the British Virgin Islands to Rhode Island. She is the 257th person to sail around the world alone and the 46th American, according to Ted Jones, chairman of the Joshua Slocum Society, a group named after the first person to complete a circumnavigation.

On Wednesday, the state House of Representatives proclaimed April 25 “Donna Lange Day.” Yesterday, a ceremony was held in her honor at the Herreshoff Marine Museum, in Bristol. Pat Henry, one of the few women to precede Lange on a solo circumnavigation, was also there. Town Councilman Halsey C. Herreshoff, whose family built America’s Cup winners at the turn of the last century, described Lange’s trip as a mixture of “joy, excitement, boredom, pleasure and a certain amount of terror.” “I think our star, Donna, was in some peril,” he said, addressing an audience of about 100 people. “Yet with her great spirit and sailing ability, she came through.”

Lange is not from Rhode Island. Her only connection to the state is through her father, a native of Burrillville. She remembers as a child visiting Galilee and eating fried clams by the water. She lived most of her life in upstate New York, working as a nurse and raising a family. She is 46 years old, a mother of four and a grandmother of two. Her life changed in 1998. Her 20-year marriage ended. And one night, on the way home from work, she accidentally hit a truck, which careened into a sport utility vehicle carrying five people. All five were killed. Lange survived, but the accident scarred her. She says she suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder and struggled to move on. She saw an ad for a chef on a Tall Ship in Baltimore, Md., and left New York in search of answers. She fell in love with the sea and learned how to sail.

“I had this vision of sailing around the world, and it just stuck,” she says. She bought Inspired Insanity in 2000 for $18,000, all the money she had. The boat is a Southern Cross that was built in Bristol in 1982 by the C.E. Ryder Corp. It’s a sturdy boat but considered small for a circumnavigation. “The 28-foot Southern Cross was not built to do what I did,” Lange, a petite 5-foot-2, says. “But I needed a boat that was my size, one that I could handle.”

In 2002, she sailed around the Atlantic Ocean, from the U.S. Virgin Islands to Ireland and back. That trip, though difficult, gave her the confidence to attempt a voyage around the world. On a previous stop in Bristol, she had fallen in love with the town and its seafaring tradition. She returned to Bristol to refurbish her boat and stock up for the five-and-a-half month trip that would constitute the first leg of her journey. “I chose to leave from Bristol because you’ve been family to me,” she said at the event yesterday. She sailed from Bristol on Nov. 11, 2005.

The voyage around the Cape of Good Hope, at the southern tip of Africa, was tougher than she expected. The winds were pushing her back, and the seas were rough. She considered turning around. “I was hit by gale after gale after gale,” she says. “I was beaten down.” But she persevered, and after 168 days at sea, she sailed into Auckland, New Zealand. After staying there for much of the rest of 2006, she left last November to cross the South Pacific. The trip across the ocean and around Cape Horn, the southernmost point in South America, took 48 days. She rested in Argentina before continuing north. All told, she spent 293 days at sea, living on granola, canned fish, canned soup and crackers. She made only three stops along the way.

Lange says the journey was about more than piling up miles and persevering through seemingly endless days. “I wanted answers,” she says. “But I wanted to know it right. I didn’t want people to tell me. So I went to the sea. And she’s been extremely faithful.”

Two of Lange’s daughters who were at the ceremony in Bristol said their mother has changed during her journey. “She was pining away for something before,” Kristy Brill, 25, said. “I think now she has found peace in herself,” said Ptarmigan Etman, 26.

Although Lange is a legal resident of the British Virgin Islands, she doesn’t have a home other than her boat. She plans to sail it back to Bristol for the town’s boat show June 2-3. She has also accepted an invitation to march with her boat in the town’s famous Fourth of July parade. She is contemplating writing a book about her experiences. Although Lange says she doesn’t feel the need to try such a long trip again, she hasn’t ruled one out. “Would I do this again?” she says, laughing quietly. “I might.” “I wanted answers…. So I went to the sea. And she’s been extremely faithful.”

Donna Lange

Friday, April 20, 2007 - 2:26 PM EST
NOTE FROM DONNA LANGE
I am safe and sound in Bermuda. I came in on lovely nice winds, sunshine and was so incredibly warmly welcomed by Bermudians!!! Wow!! It is all surreal.. The intensity of the storm, torrential rains, pelting rain, equipment failures, 36-hours on deck hand steering.. I have never known such exhaustion. I was falling asleep literally every moment coming up the coast of Bermuda to St Georges.. I would startle and wake to the boat off coarse and put her back on only to wake again in a start.. I have to rest.... Moe Roddy's friends were there to greet as well as Brian and his parents, even some folks from a cruise ship who caught wind of what was going on..... so amazing. But for today, please forgive me but I have to sleep. I am just a buzz of energy but cannot keep my eyes open. I will write tomorrow and hopefully will be on skype.... Lots of catching up... big loves to all.. Sorry to be so quick but I can't write right now... I get all baggled... love you all, oxoooxoxo I am safe and sound... You were all with me these last 24-hours as I could not have steered myself. I would remember each and bring you back to help me get through.... I will write real tomorrow.... I love you all so so very much. Big hug xoxooxoo d

UPDATE
Friday, April 20, 2007 - 09:30 AM EST from BRIAN OATLEY, BERMUDA

Just to let you know you may not hear from Donna until Friday because she is sleeping like a baby at my mother's house. This should fill you in on the recover events:

When I left this morning to escort Donna into the harbor, I was taking my Boston Whaler out to meet her. But when I was preparing to leave, I got a call from Bermuda Radio saying she had not been able to start her engine. I had to pirate a fishing vessel belonging to my friend and neighbor, Stan Harris. Stan picked up his friend Chris Lamb to help and the three of us set out to tow Donna into the harbor. As we departed, Bermuda Harbor Radio called to ask if we had left yet. They had just spoken to Donna on VHF and she sounded frantic. I replied that we were just leaving the marina. Next came a phone call from Donna which I could barely understand. She gave her position and talked about how tired she was. I told her that we would be there in about ten to fifteen minutes.

We spotted Donna less than half a mile from the sea buoy (Spit Buoy) sailing along quite nicely with her jib up, in 20kts of breeze. We pulled up along side of her and there she stood in the cockpit with the biggest grin on her face. Although she was worn and tired, she seemed to have a look of relief and satisfaction. She made it ! !

As we towed Donna toward the harbor entrance, it seemed as though the air temperature rose from the cool damp breeze of the morning. Donna sat on the bow of aptly named "Inspired Insanity" looking quite relaxed enjoying the scenery as we entered the harbor. As we cruised through the visiting yachts anchored in the harbor; the crews jumped up from the cockpits or down below to greet her as she went by.

She had to be taken to the 'customs & immigration' dock so we brought her alongside the fishing boat and made a perfect docking. My father, Bernie, was on the dock to catch the lines while my mother and two tourists snapped pictures. Three crew from a catamaran anchored in the harbor were there to greet her. One of the crew was wearing a "Red Dress Cap" and I new what that meant. He is a friend of one of her friends that has come to meet her on her behalf. I gave Donna a big hug and then helped her onto the dock. She was near tears as she hugged everyone. She then became very bubbly and she glowed as she related some of the difficulty she encountered. A short story of the ups and downs, highs and lows. She said that she felt more tired than she had ever felt before.

At this point Chris, the friend of Stan (the owner of the fishing boat) produced a few cold beers. At that point it just seemed like the perfect thing to do. All of us just sat on the dock, toasted Donna, and drank the beers (my parents don't drink). Donna related her experience and even fielded some questions from curious cruise ship passengers that wandered onto the customs dock. Donna then went into the customs office to clear in. Her new friends from the catamaran walked over to the supermarket (Somers Supermart) where they have a food bar and brought Donna back a very good meal. We all sat there on the dock chatting while Donna polished off the first real cooked meal. Finally we pushed off the dock and towed "Inspired Insanity" to the St. George's Dinghy & Sports Club.

There was no press there to meet her, but I think that may have been better for Donna. Her arrival at the dock was, at first, a little emotional for her. The small group of people on hand made her feel much more relaxed and comfortable.

Oh, one more thing of interest. Earlier in the morning, before Donna arrived, an Open 50 footer, racing around the world single-handed, was towed in the harbor. Apparently he had come through the same storm that Donna came through. His boat is a mess, his sails are so tattered and tangled around the rigging that he had to hire someone to go up the mast and cut the sales away. Strangly enough, Donna's little Southern Cross came out looking quite good, with everything intact but the self stearing. Tomorrow the Open 50 will join Donna's boat at the dinghy Club.

I must go now because my lack of sleep last night has caught up with me.

Brian Oately

UPDATE
Thursday, April 19, 2007 - 15:30 EST
I had the pleasure of talking with Donna for bit. She is getting ready for her shower and then plans to sleep. She wants everyone to know how greatful she is for all your prayers and energy. She needed every last bit of it.

Donna said she found herself dosing off moments at a time for last 30-minutes of her journey in. She would dose and correct, dose and correct... Brian Oatley told Will that she was speaking incoherantly when they tried to establish radio contact but once they were face to face, she was fine. Brian towed her in the last stretch and said she must have fallen asleep as soon as the tow line was established. He had to go below and get her for the docking. The boat is pretty much in shambles and those are her words not mine. "The steering vane is damaged, the wind generator is hit and miss, there's so much work to be done before it can be sailed again. It's like starting over".

Donna described herself as feeling pummeled. I assume that's a word but if not, we all know what she means. She knows she will be extremely sore tomorrow and probably for a couple days to come. But other than needing rest, she says she's healthy. She scared herself when she looked in a mirror for the first time. She said her face was bright red and weathered from the last 36-hours straight of high wind rain. She said "my new friends from Bermuda won't even know what I look like".

I asked Donna if she wanted to share any thoughts on the days to come. She thinks she'll be ready for a flight to Rhode Island by Monday. She feels the need to get a few things arranged on her boat before she leaves. Tomorrow (Friday) brings another round of storms so she knows she won't get much done until that passes. Her hope is to spend some relax time tomorrow catching up on her log and email that she couldn't get to while she was being pounded. Neil

UPDATE
Thursday, April 19, 2007 - 11:52 EST
DONNA IS OKAY!!

UPDATE
Thursday, April 19, 2007 - 10:15 EST
Brian Oatley is heading out now to locate Donna.

UPDATE
Thursday, April 19, 2007 - 06:20 EST
It sounded like progress was very difficult because mountainous seas kept playing havoc with her sail. Donna has been in contact with Bermuda Radio as have we. They estimated her docking ETA at noonish EST. Brian Oatley is standing by to rendezvous with her as she nears the eastern side of the island. I've asked Brian if he could provide us some periodic updates on Donna's status. Neil

UPDATE
Wednesday, April 18, 2007 - 18:12:00 EST
Donna is okay!!! She has sailed the crazy seas all day putting her about 50 miles from her Bermuda waypoint. She has contacted Bermuda Operations Authorities with her current coordinates and is setting herself up for some rest. They have suggested that she does not attempt any approach until daylight. So it looks like the timing will work out for a safe morning arrival in Bermuda.

UPDATE
Wednesday, April 18, 2007 - 18:05 EST
I wish I had something to report? If anyone has heard from Donna since early this morning, please share.

SOME INTERESTING INFORMATION TO PASS THE TIME ....
Donna officially announced her round-the-world sail plan from the Virgin Islands on July 15, 2005. She set sail on Inspired Insanity from the islands, arriving in Bristol, Rhode Island on July 29, 2005. This is where she insists that she will sail Inspired Insanity to ultimately complete her goal. However, despite Donna's hard headed determination, she completed her circumnavigation on March 29, 2007 in the Virgin Islands. Just don't tell her that!!

UPDATE
Wednesday, April 18, 2007 - 07:00 EST
Judging from Donna's emails and log, she is doing much better. She was able to get 2-3 hours of good sleep with her boat close-hauled and well balanced. I think the words and prayers everyone has sent her are giving her trememdous courage and energy. The conditions have aparently moderated a bit (all relative) but more bad stuff is yet to come before she hits Bermuda. She's going to be alright. I continue to forward every email that comes through this site (with only a couple of exceptions!). As her log indicated, she is actually trying to read them all. I'm not sure if that's good or bad, whether she should be trying to sleep or read? But I'll leave that up to Donna.

UPDATE FROM PHONE CONVERSATION WITH DONNA (Neil VanGundy)
Tuesday, April 17, 2007 - 04:16 EST (Winds 50 kts, Seas 40-ft, Location: N3155 W6730)
I just talked to Donna. I've never heard her so distressed. She keeps saying don't worry but she was very emotional. I gave her all the energy I could. I've never heard her cry until now. Donna is having to steer manually which means she'll be tied to the tiller until she get's to Bermuda. She says, "why does it have to be so hard?" She has rigged an extenstion to the arm which allows her to be part way inside. Donna hopes the seas will calm slightly at sunset like they did last night. She was able to close-haul and allow the boat to better steer itself, even though its not the most optimum direction toward Bermuda. If this works she can try to slip into a less concious state of rest. She is trying to stay as warm as possible, very aware of her condition. It was very hard to know what to say to her. Except, you can do it Donna, I know you can...

UPDATE FROM DONNA VIA TEXT MESSAGE TO STU KAHN
Tuesday, April 17, 2007 - 07:18 EST
HI STU, PLEASE LET ALL KNOW I AM GOOD. POSITION 3203N 6828W. ND DRIVF. CAN NOT DO LOG NOW AND ONCE I GET DOWN WIND I CAN'T LEAVE DECK. WILL TAKE BREAK MID DAY.

EMAIL RECEIVED FOR DONNA
Donna,
you are the most experienced person available to help you now.
Just wait it out in Bermuda, you know it will change in your favor.
Love,
Ken Barnes.

MONDAY, APRIL 16, 1:50 PM EST
DONNA'S SEA ANCHOR HAS JUST FAILED. She has no choice but to sail. She is now on the move to Bermuda, 285 nautical miles East from her current location.

MONDAY, APRIL 16, 12:45 PM EST
I just got off the phone with Donna after a rather lengthy (and expensive) conversation. Donna feels safe right now on her sea anchor. She is extremely fatigued but feels peace. Donna understands her option to sail to Bermuda but does not feel she can sail ANY direction under the current conditions. For the time being, her plan is to stay put, even if it means several days.

Donna really has become "one" with the sea. She said that even in the midst of her near roll over and exhaustive water removal recovery, she felt a sense of quiet. She is not afraid and feels that she will ultimately be okay. She won't give up, she won't give in. She said that nothing she has ever read about, or visualized, could have prepared her for what she is fighting now. She said the seas are beyond all imagination.

Donna sounded very good. Very strong, relaxed and in control. Most importantly, very sane and competent. Her life is important to her. Something I don't think she would have said 3-years ago. She is a changed woman.

Donna has been deluged with very good professional advise. But, I can tell from talking to Donna, that no one but Donna has all of the information it takes to make a sound decision. Only she can take into account her own personal abilities, fatigue, strength and the condition of her vessel. After hearing her voice, I for one, respect and support her decision making. She will continue to rely on us for information and she'll make her choices the best that she can.
Neil

MONDAY, APRIL 16, 10:30 AM EST
Problem is, last nights storm is only round one.
The forcast calls for sustained winds of at least 40-50 kts today and gusts still over 60 kts. There will likely be more squalls developing during the next few days. Nasty seas of 25-30 feet guaranteed and possibly higher as they build into Tuesday. Donna is consulting the weather experts for advise on her options. Bermuda Search and Rescue is standing by with Donna's coordinates.

MONDAY, APRIL 16TH - 6:00 AM EST
Donna is okay after facing a monstrous storm Monday morning. The boat may have suffered damage to the steering vane. At one point, Donna took a quarter plus roll but the boat righted itself. Sustained winds of 70 kts, seas of 25 to 30 feet. Water continually flooded the cockpit and drenched the cabin below. Donna is in amazing spirits as she assesses boat damage and prepares for the next few days of storms.

SUNDAY, APRIL 15TH - 6:00 PM EST
There are a number of highly skilled weather monitors on the job at this time. They agree that this storm will likely be the worst that Donna has ever faced. And Donna has faced some wicked storms. Including the storm that prematurely ended Ken Barnes round-the-world venture at Cape Horne in January.

April 13, 2007 - A Special EMAIL from Donna's good friend "Light".

Dear One, Your course has been set for some time. Your loving, adventurous spirit has helped to connect the world's loving energy. Use that to feed your body and soul now. So, Your last few miles are challenging? Did you expect less? Your test continues. And now those last hard earned miles will continue to push you. But REMEMBER, you are strong, healthy and will finish this journey with even more insights than your heart has yet dreamed. In the last hours of this very tough adventure, know that your energy is steeled against any harm. Know that you are being carried with great love and healing energy. Yes, you are the sailor. You have chosen this and are every bit fit for these miles. Just as you were fit for rounding the "Cape" and sailing across thousands of miles of open ocean, YOU are doing the SAILING, because you are the sailor! Let not the fears and thrills of the last miles - work you down. KNOW that you are given all you need for this leg. Know that you are doing this, as you knew you would do it all along! Remember the energy of the first few days, months. That same LOVING and MAGICAL Knowledge and Strength are WITH YOU NOW, yet multiplied exponentially. It is all mental now. Your body KNOWS how to do this. Your will KNOWS how to do this. Open to the LOVE... Your heart will spirit you forward! You are READY for this.

THIS TIME is why you are doing this. These last few measly miles are just a drop in your OCEAN of COURAGE and SKILLS. You are home, you are HOME on this MIGHTY MOTHER OCEAN as you will never be on land. The Sea has given birth to your soul and your body, and She will NOT let you fall. She guides you as she challenges you. It is Her way. But this YOU UNDERSTAND. These few remaining days of the beginning of the rest of your AMAZING LIFE are still to be cherished! You are loved by so many. We can't wait to give you the hugs and the care you deserve. You ARE doing this for those who you will help in the future! YOU CAN DO THIS! ... all my love and light and greatest insights - I send to YOU, always, Light

January 12, 2007 - Ken Barnes
Donna, Thank you very much for your offer of assistance during my recent trouble. I couldn’t be pulling for your success more if I had a rope attached to you boat. I think about you often and am there with you in spirit every minute. Believe me when I say you would rather complete your trip in relative obscurity than be thrust in the spotlight for all the second guessers that are sitting in comfortable chairs at home. I hope to someday meet you and give you a big hug to celebrate you great success.
Ken Barnes

January 3, 2007 @ 19:36 EST - Donna Lange
Hi Neil just an update to you. i talked to Ron. i have ken's number but his boat has taken a beating. masts, engine, rudder, no way to make power or steer. hatch broken. he is looking to scuttle the boat and get off. i just heard an hour ago and then again just now, there is a vessel out here looking for him. but they are speaking in spanish. i presume asking to keep traffic clear from what i could tell. i have called in m position. i doubt they hear me with such a low pwer hand held but.... I am just praying.... i am putting a log into the website for everyone to pray he is found. there is another very large storm system coming through in just a few days and it will beat him up hard if he isnot off that boat. the wind direction is going to be due west for the next few days so for me to try to make headway that way will take days. plus truth is, I need to get off the sea. i need to get in by then and it is really a long ways yet. i have good enough winds. But the storm wil be on my heals. I can't tell how compact and intense it will be, but it covers alot of territory. love you lots.

the patrol is looking for MV_AlGarve. I hear no other response. I can monitor their talk though.

December 12, 2006 - Donna Lange
I truly write this letter to you all from 2000mi out in the open Southern
Ocean, from upon my 28' sailboat. Last November 11, 2005, I embarked on an
epic sail around the world with only one stop, in Opua New Zealand. From RI
I sailed south east around Cape Hope, across the Southern ocean to the
Australian Basin, through the Bass Straits and over the top to arrive in
Opua on April 28th, 2006 after 168 days alone at sea. On November 21st,2006
I left Opua to complete the rest of the world. I am 2050 miles out, 1/3 my
way to Cape Horne which I should round mid January, possibly stopping only
to enjoy the wildlife from the boat, to continue on back north around Brazil
to RI, arriving sometime mid to late April 2007.

I am a professional singer and songwriter of many years. John Denver's music
was the songs I was raised on, from where I gained the great love of nature
and mankind that comes so natural to me, and I play his music every time I
pick up my guitar. My songs have been compared to his style without any
prior knowledge of my connection to his music.

I want so much to impress upon you how deeply I am connected to the spirit
of John and his passions and desire with all my heart to make a difference.
I will be writing books when i return, but I sing....That is who I am. I
sing Calypso, Annie's song, Rocky mountain High and never is there not a
comment as to how much I am John's soul sister.

I am 45 years old, a grandmother of 2, mother of 4 fantastic human beings.
This sailing journey is now well publicized in sailing journals though not
of the height of a racing, high profile Ellen Macarthur. I am a grassroots
woman, singing songs of love for all mankind , the sea, for life. I am
sponsored financially only in as much as I have been leant money to put new
equipment on my boat. But many sponsors have put radios, software for
weather fax, satellite reception, and email capability on the boat for me.
And my boat, my world is a community project everywhere I go. I have been
so beautifully adopted by the New Zealand community musicians and sailors
who have put so much love and help into preparing my boat and making sure I
have the provisions I need.

I am so so sure that there is a way I can help the causes that John so
loved. The sea is the mentor of my joy these last years and I would like to
do anything I can to help preserve both her and all her family in the ocean.
I was raised in the Adirondack mountains of NY and fell in love with the
western mountains during many travels and hikes there. My ex-husband and my
sons backcountry ski from Utah to Targhee yearly. Cooper lives at the foot
of Targhee.

Please scan my website www.donnalange.com. Alot of incredible volunteers
have joined my team to help me sail safely around the world and to let
people know I am there. I represent woman's issues and environmental
passions. Above all else, I know the Sea. She is my mentor, The unity of
love that she IS is proof enough to the world of the desire of the universe
to see the world a healthy place for all to prosper. There is so much more
than enough to care for all.

I have 4 CD's that have been produced, very simply. Me and my guitar,
harmonicas, my Irish whistle. I also play all kinds of music on the
Caribbean steel pan. My mother manages all my CD's and I can forward you a
copy of my songs all copyrighted and produced in NY. I would love to share
my songs and my heart with you and hold up John's torch. I will be holding
up that torch no matter your support or involvement. That is who I am.
Love is... everything.

I can so easily hear John singing many of my songs, as I sing his. "Stickin
Together, Keepin on Dreamin on, Changing Directions, Just tryin on Different
Me's, Peace is All I Have to Give To the World..."

I would love to have any contact with John Denver's associates or causes. I
would love to know where his band is. I can only receive small emails to
this address as it is on board the boat with slow email access. please send
larger emails with information to

Langelm@webtv.net or through my website www.donnalange.com ,
yoloadventure@aol.com, or donnalange@hotmail.com (which i will retrieve
when i get to the states in April.)

Thank you with my greatest care and concern towards all who have promoted
and kept John Denver's great torch lit and blazing. I do so hope to hear
from you. Thank you ever so much,

Very Sincerely,
Fairest of Winds and Love,
Only Gratitude,

Captain Donna Lange

November 24, 2006 - Donna Lange
Hi All. I want to introduce Wolf and Doris( Sv_Nomad) to you. They
adopted me in that last week in Opua and opened their own boat and
professional skills to all the team. Doris fed and cared for me, and all
those who came to help many times. Wolf was amazing helping me with repairs
and doing all the last minute checks with the rig, taping pins and all kinds
of stuff i was too emotional to concentrate on. My last night there Danny,
Angie and I had a wonderful dinner with them. We played songs til the wee
hours. Wolf and Doris have cruised for many years and spent a full year in
Patagonia filming and photographing so it was splendid to see their pictures
and see the film they had made. We all should buy one. it was spectacular.
Wolf and Doris took over 500 photos of my departure and video as well of our
night of music and the farewell. They are waiting for email address and a
land address to send photos to. so many thanks and i iknow it is from all
my home and NZ team as well.

The Team is really a big family. The Publicity crew: Will is a retired, no
longer retired, publicist who is brilliant at getting the world to know who
i am and what i am doing. He has provided photos and articles for
magazines. He made sure my original departure was documented. Now Janey has
risen to the occasion in NZ to follow me by photo and write articles and she
has volunteered to continue to do so through the trip. She is waiting with
baited breath for some of the photos you took of my departure. She will get
articles and such put together. She and Will will work hand in hand to
bring me back to the states where Will can then photo my homecoming .

My welcome committee in NZ:. Suz Bailey who knew of me only from a mutual
friend and internet, was the landing crew getting me safely into Opua,
driving up to get me my credit card that my mom had mailed her. She
singlehandedly, pampered me to death those first weeks in NZ; Found a home
for my boat in Milford. I was hurtin and she was awesome.
She took all the first photos. She is a great friend. Richard Thorpe, too,
only knew of me from the internet and arranged the TVNZ crew to meet up with
me coming into Auckland and he has kept in touch every step.

The HOME Team: Linda is my mom and she loves you already and loves to keep
in touch with the marvelous people i have had the privilege to meet along my
journey.   Ernie is her husband, dad to me. She is a focal point. The Team
will send emails to each other keepin all informed of all that is going on.
Stewart Kahn has funded most of all the new equipment and refit as well as
stood by to help with weather and communications; When I return I will have
the privilege of skippering and caring for his 50' Hylas Sv_Sherry Lee and
continue to stay involved with a great group of folks at Stay - n - Out, a
treatment program for prison inmates for which Stu is the Chairmen of the
board. Tom Outman gave me 2 weeks hard labor rebuilding in RI and was my
primary weather support system last half when i had only the satelite phone
for all my communication and weather needs. Neill VanGundy is the Webmaster
who volunteered many years ago to create a website for me and he has stayed
with me through all the committment that this project requires. That
website is the hub of all the commuications.

Here is some of us. Amazing. I am looking so forward to all this love and
friendship continuing beyond my finishing this second leg around the Horne.
What a wonderful world we have. much love and so many thanks to you all.
Only Gratitude, loves and hugs xoxo donna marie

October 29, 2006 - Donna Lange
Hi TEAM!! I haven't sent out any of these for a while. Great to chat to you all. What an amazing time Ihave had here in New Zealand. Lots of changes to Inspired Insanity. so many new systems getting on line.   Very wonderful. It will mean that i am a bit more self reliant out here and able to keep everyone better informed right from the boat. Plus the multiple weather
resources will allow me to find my way from out there for the most part.

Still have gliches in the SSB installation and need to 'read the manual'. Otherwise the installation is complete. stll having problems transmitting. Scott, i'll get back to you on that. Chris, i am not getting the Sky eye Reports now either. we'll talk.

But in the grand scheme. Most of the work is nearly done. Last rounds of deck fittings, wood work. hope to do some non skid on the deck. Batteries to go in. Propane tanks to buy and fill. But we are close. Hope to do the packing of food in the next 3 days.

With the latest weather report from Bob McDavitt. we are due for a few weeks of really good weather right now until late november. I am going to put a push on to leave a bit earlier so i can take advantage of the tail of this good stretch to get away from New Zealand. If i wait till the 16th or after, i will be leaving on the cusp of the next series of lows and there are signs that the lows will be wondering more south than usual. To wait til the next clear time will be ? with the beginning of the high cyclone season.   There are several other boats heading to chile that are trying to get out sooner than later.

So this is where I am at. I am fighting my way back with a bad flu or cold. Finally taking the antibiotic. I suspect that over exposure to epoxy and such along with a rich cold season here in NZ with the late winter weather has combined to hit me pretty hard. I have stopped playing out in the evenings and i am resting all i can. No voice anyway at this time.

Life is exciting and amazing. The hands here are so so helpful and skilled. Making good way. huge hugs to you all. Thanks millions and millions. I will keep closer in touch as the day approaches. Please give a buzz as to how it seems to you. loves and hugs donna

October 2, 2006 - Donna Lange
Luis Soltero offered one more link that will allow people to do more with the vessel tracking.  Same with SkyEye.  It is amazing. That is their premium satelite receiver. I will get actual weather pictures and infrared pictures every 20+ minutes or so depending on how many satelites are there to work with. It is just incredible. They have set me up with stickers for the
boat and a lovely warm SkyEye coat, size small. It fits me!  I spent 5-hours with Chris and Jonathan learning how to use the new computer software and making sure it is installed properly. I will test it out on my trip north. Steve will have the rig done on Tues. hopiing to sail north on Thursday. May have a friend go with me. Not necessary to "solo" yet.  I am splashing my
boat tomorrow!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Rig isn't quite done but we can get the mast up. Steve can finish the rig with the mast up. Hopefully engine will run. I found a gear for the throttle yesterday saving my replacing the whole unit.

September 30, 2006 - Donna Lange Schedule

Oct 3rd. - Mast up!
Oct 6th   - Sail to Whangarei
Oct 7th   - Jazz Fest in Whangarei
Oct 8th   -   Dogs Bollix- Joined by Dion Rogers and jam night group
Oct 10th - Working away with rest of refit, deck, woodwork,
                  installing electronics, provision....
Oct 19th - Thank you Music Night at Milford Cruising Club's Thursday
                 Dinner night. Joined by Jam Group and possibly the players
                 from the Allambra Jazz Club. Looking forward to a great night!!!!
Oct 25th - Speaking/Singing for the Plumbers Distributors Association
                 of New Zealand's Annual Luncheon.
Nov 7th   -  Head up to Opua, my point of landing and point of departure.
Nov 13th - Speaking/Singing for the East Tamaki Rotary. Will have final
                 catch up with Auckland, and North Shore Friends.
Nov 16th - Heading out for Cape Horn with next appropriate weather window.

September 15, 2006 - Article by Jane M Pares - Donna Lange and the Bavaria Connection

“She’s so smooth, so luxurious! Wow, what a beauty!”

Donna’s words last weekend when she sailed out of Mangonui Harbour in the far north of New Zealand’s North Island, on Hinemoana, Tony Norman’s Bavaria 44 Cruiser. It was a magical moment for Donna at the helm of such luxury. Sailing the sheltered waters of Mangonui Harbour on a strong, seaworthy performance cruiser was in sharp contrast to sailing the world’s oceans alone in her dear 28ft Southern Cross Inspired Insanity.

Life is like a spider web of connections and her friendship with Tony can be traced back to a defining moment during April this year.

Donna had rounded the Cape of Good Hope in February and was approaching the eastern end of the Indian Ocean. As she crossed the longitude of Cape Leeuwin and entered the South Australian Basin she had a serious decision to make – whether to go under Tasmania or through the infamous Bass Straits. The general consensus in Jimmy Cornell’s books was to go south of Tasmania in the summer season but Donna was already into late summer, being three to four weeks behind schedule. Her intuition, which was very strong, was to go through the Bass Straits but she desperately needed outside help on weather forecasts so that she could make an informed decision. She turned to her team in the US and Stewart Kahn, who had been helping her with weather, put her in touch with one of his New Zealand contacts – Tony Norman. Donna phoned him. From his experience he suggested that the Bass Straits traditionally had a bad reputation, but a strong series of lows developing at 45 south had all the signs of a force ten gale and 50ft seas. Donna struggled to understand her best option.

As the storm systems grew, the intuition to use the Bass Straits got stronger. Desperate to get information she spent almost an hour on the iridium phone trying to get a number that would give her the very best in weather advice.

Finally through many silky web threads and convoluted connections she was contacted by NZ Search & Rescue.

“Brrrrrr Brrrrrr!” A strange sound burst into her world and for a shocked moment she strove to work it out.

It was her sat. phone! And the first call she’d had since leaving The States five months before. NZ Search and Rescue were wonderful, bringing a welcome reassurance into her lonely world. They were aware of her approach and had in fact been tracking her. They called the Australian Search and Rescue on her behalf – Donna hung up and low and behold the phone rang again! She explained her situation and they immediately responded, “Well you’re not going down there, of course use the Straits.”

Continual communication from the Melbourne Met Bureau meant that Donna was able to navigate a safe course between fronts, even experiencing two glorious days in the Bass Straits and very excitingly had her first land sighting!

Once she had arrived in NZ, Tony Norman travelled down from his home in the Far North and took some of the first photos of her and Inspired Insanity at Milford Cruising Club and offered her a few days of rest at his Mill Bay Haven on the Mangonui Harbour

Donna took Tony up on his offer in early September and was out on the water sailing past Cooper’s Beach (her eldest son’s name) and into an enchanting little bay on the north side of Whangaroa Harbour for a five star lunch of wine and local oysters on the Bavaria 44. Tony had also prepared two venues for Donna to play her music at - Mangonui Yacht Club and the Waterfront Café – both wonderful nights to full houses.

So where is Donna with the re-fit on her boat? Well, she’s just finishing some structural rebuilding of the mast step, standing rigging and furling system, together with work on the engine. She now has all the materials for rebuilding the electrical system. There’s still lots of work ahead, but Donna’s hoping to be in the water by the end of September so she can sail a few miles further north to Whangarei where she’ll finish off the last of her re-fit.

She plans to join her hosts, the Milford Cruising Club, on their annual cruise to Great Barrier Island – 40 miles off shore - next month before finally heading up to Opua in the magical Bay of Islands, where she’ll await a weather window around mid November. The final stage of her voyage is a single ‘hop’ round Cape Horn and back up to the States.

August 15, 2006 - Donna Lange

GIGS and AN ISLAND VISITOR

Hey all!! Music is magic. I have had some really special meetings with sailors, teachers, musicians. Really amazing energy. The NZ Multihull Yacht club in Auckland invited me for an evening of speaking and music. Great folks. A wonderful folk music patron of the arts, Raewyn (rare to have someone's last name), has really introduced me around and given me several opportunities to sing. She continues to encourage me to go to the Allambra, a jazz club in Ponsonby. A couple of friday's ago, the lounge was full of such talented players, all who spontaneously arrived and jammed away. a trumpet, fugal horn, 2 sax players, soprano and tenor, flute, piano, several percussionists, 2 drummers, bass, piano...and the vocalists came out of the woodwork. Just an amazing night. I shared an always improv version of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow". The next week I found myself at the Bunker, a Folk Club in Devonport, surrounded by real authentic Irish and traditional musicians. From the irish harp, accordion to marvelous harmonies all sung acapello. It was just brilliant. I pulled out my guitar and harmonicas and shared some older irish style songs I wrote and then a tin whistle tune. As the fire burned we all stayed warm together on what was a cold and rainy night, but we were all cozy and entranced with the evening. Several nights have been spent at House Parties. Folks just get together, even share a meal and great chat or an incredible jam session. I've gotten to spend a bit of time playing the bass. Just love it!! gonna have to have one, but I have no idea where to put that on the boat. Last night I took part in an awesome open mic at the Irish pub "Dogs Bullocks" with capt Chris Bone, a new contact. The music was so good and I even landed a "paying" gig there on September 10th. Even better, fantastic musician and friend Morgan Rael will be visiting New Zealand from the Caribbean then and we'll be able to do a good old fashion Ho-down, steel pans and electric guitars screamin. Great stuff!! We'll get a chance to do a bit of touring as well which will be a welcome break from the stresses of the refit. But Morgan won't get away from here with clean hands. Don't you worry. He's an amazing asset to have
here.

BRUCE MASON CENTER FOR THE ARTS

A week ago sunday, through Raewyn's recommendation, I was allowed to play as a solo artist for the Bruce Mason Center of the Arts open house. They are celebrating their 10th season and started it off with a free day of programming and displays. I was able to share some Steel Pan music, a few stories and songs as an in-between act while some of the bigger groups set
up behind stage. The theatre acoustics were just incredible and the folks were so very welcoming. The arts are a valued part of the culture here in NZ and the Center has an incredible program for the upcoming year.

NZ NORTH SHORE TEACHER'S UNION

Just this past week, I spoke for a NZ North shore Teacher's Union gathering.   Again, just wonderful people. As I prepared for the night, I reflected back and realized that most of the skills I rely on day by day at sea were first learned in primary and secondary school. The only technical music training I have was taught me in elementary school on the clarinet. The inscription they had on the arch of the dinner hall was "Individual Growth Through Challenge and Learning". I simply pointed to that and said "Well, that is all I really have to say". That is exactly how I have come to sail around the world. The response to the stories and music was overwhelming. Several opportunities to speak in the schools and at other functions are in the makings. I am very excited. This is truly what my journey is all about.

REFIT PROGRESS

New Bulkhead and wood work. Today the sun is shining. Though still a bite to the breeze, finally a day with no intermittent rain so that I can open the boat up and do some epoxy work. I had already cut out and fit in a new bulkhead for the anchor locker so it was ready to be glued and secured. Hopefully, tomorrow will follow today's weather and I'll get the fiberglass work finished. Then just grinding and paint. I also glued up several other smaller projects. I still have to rework my companionway. That is next rig. Still waiting for the crane to get the mast down. As I wait I keep pondering the reinforcement project. We'll see how bad it really is, but I have some ideas and so do the fellows in the yard. Hopefully, once it is down, the work won't take too long. I'll get that critical look at the standing wire, and the mast head blocks and such. I need to fix whatever is
chaffing lines up there. I'll get the furler fixed. Hands are ready to make good headway with the metal fabrication work.

Electricals

I will only be putting the necessary wiring back in the boat for this upcoming trip. I'll be simplifying systems so the wires have no breaks anywhere, using plug-able lights and sealed junction boxes. I have to replace the circuit breakers. I have learned the hard way, that I can't afford to have any power going anywhere that doesn't go through a fuse or breaker. Fires on board are no fun at all. I have resourced basic materials and they are on their way. The SSB radio has arrived from Scott Jones. I
have an expert awaiting to help me get it wired in properly and even to help me get through a radio license program.

Sails

My Old Main Sail is "nearly" as good as new. Well, not new, but there is still life in her. I am sure she'll see some air time when I get into the lighter airs and need all 3 reefs. It also looks like I can make a fair rebuild of both of my headsails. I am still debating a new working jib. The old one is pretty worn out, but Ross Harold is very good at putting sails back together. I can also get a new one very reasonably. This sail will be my primary sail flown from Cape Horn back to Rhode Island so it's
gonna see alot of air time. My old jib was the one that flew the whole southern ocean and Tasman Sea once the furler broke, so she has given most of what she's got already. If I lose her, I'll be relying on the genny which I am not planning to replace so....we'll see.

COMPUTER DEJA-VU

If you were one of those folks who got an email from me recently dated November 2005, well that was an after thought. I finally was able to get the power source sorted out for my computer and plugged her in at the internet cafe. I guess she had some unfinished business from my attempts to send out newsletters from sea early on in the trip. Better late than never? The decision is still out as to whether or not my computer will hold up for downloading weather the second half. There are definitely some glitches in her workings. I was unable to download the software from a digital camera. Files were "unavailable". Once I get the radio up and running and get the appropriate modem and such, I'll give it a whirl. Hopin for the best.

MILFORD CRUISING CLUB

My incredible hosts, here, have just been awesome. Even the private Boatbuilding Shop next to the yard has opened their doors, allowing me to use tools, materials. Without this kind of support, every project I do is a fiasco of using hand tools, trying to buy materials at high retail costs and having to buy "a gallon, just to use a cup". The variety of projects is great and each needs it's own tools, and support network. Many thanks to Jeff at the Boatshop and all at the cruising club. I have even been blessed with some work helping Jayne with the club catering. She is amazing. But, got to watch out for the quality of the club's drink. I can't drink like the Kiwi's. Yow! I'll never live it down, either. Just a lightweight American.

HOSTESS, SUZ BAILEY

Suz just arrived back from a fantastic holiday with her daughter and granddaughter on the Gold Coast in Australia. Good on Ya, Suz. Her grand daughter lives in the US so every minute they can spend together is golden to Suz. Her daughter is also a miracle lady, having lived 8 years beyond what doctors told her would be her last, as she daily manages the sequele from a brain tumor. Just an tremendous family. I can never thank suz enough for the incredible introduction I have had to New Zealand through her. Louise, too!! Thanks Ladies!!

NEW SPONSOR-DRY SUIT GEAR IS HERE

MTI Adventure Wear's (www.mtiadventurewear.com) extensive Palm Inventory of Dry Suit clothing has arrived here. I have been testing it out on recent ugly days of weather while racing with the club. It is dry and warm. I am looking forward to some other interesting tests. I may even take it surfing! the water around here is "cold".

NEW CONTACTS

Every day I get emails from new supporters, local sailors offering help and resources and the professionals I can turned to for tech gear and materials.   Captain Chris Bone has really made himself available with partner Julia, to get me linked to the resources of Whangarei, a community in a Harbor geared for the Cruising community. He has contacts to help getting the life
raft serviced, music venues and other valuable links. Brian Gortney is a internet contact who has a rich background in mechanics, flying(airplanes), sailing and has been doing some really neat research about everything from shipping costs, to emergency gear. He even is a musician and lover of "folk" and met my dear friend Michael Beans at the Annapolis Boat show. Great stuff. He is going to help me get CD's duplicated so don't hesitate to order CD's.

SPEAKING OF CD'S

Not only can you order the New CD "Alone at Sea" but my first produced CD "Keepin On" is also now available, thanks to Brian. 15 years ago I recorded a gospel folk CD, nearly all original songs, called "Love's Beginnings" which is now back in print. We are even searching the archives for 3 other recordings. The very first recording I made back in 1990 was a collection of Old testament story ballads. I had found a book with the ballads all done up as lyrics, but it had no music. My children were still very young then and so decided to write them all into songs i could sing for them. I had also written just a couple of songs in complete. When I went back to college for nursing, I put them all in a recording and was able to get college credit for my musical investment over the years. Ptarmigan has always kept the tape and we are hoping to get it onto Cd. I always hoped to produce it with a coloring book for children. In 1995 I also did a duet recording with John Stickles of both of our original Adirondack Folk songs called "Simply folk". Unfortunately, alot of my other original music has been lost over the years as I haven't kept it all fresh and the real"original" recordings, which i used to make on a hand held tape recorder, have been lost to salt water damage over and over. Thank goodness for Ptarmigan, the family archivist. What she keeps stays dry. Kristy is really great too, at taking pictures and keeping me supplied with photos for my computer. Believe me, I look at them. It is a once a week ritual for me to settle back to music and photo reminiscing.

TEAM UPDATE

Though the pace is definitely on "summer time" in New England, the team is all keeping in touch and busy. Tom Outman is recovering in Florida but faithful still to keep an eye on my weather here and be researching good resources for the upcoming leg around Cape Horn. He has completed the Chemo treatments and doing well. Neil VanGundy is busy with his Family business "Martin Flag Co.". Tis their busy season, but he addresses the new updates and PDf's as they come in. Whenever he gets a chance, he is "flyin" on his Paraglider out in Iowa. I bet he and Brian G could have run into each other at the Big Air Trade show in OshKosh. Neil Perks may have been somewhere on the grounds as well. Stu Kahn and his wife Sherry have been busy with their Morgan Horse Farm plus 2 new ponies and Dapper Dan, a yearling they have adopted. With the refit of sv_Sherry Lee, they are out as often as possible and spending every minute they can with children and grands where ever they are. Stu is wonderful to keep in touch with me and all I am up to. Will Barbeau is still after me to get more pictures, updates and keep at publicity opportunities. He is the master programmer with the recent PDF's with photos of the Good Times Restaurant concert and my Tour in the Caribbean. This coming week I am meeting with a writer who works with several NZ sailing magazines. I am tryin to keep things happenin. Will is enjoying his summer with family yet hoping for more "moderate" weather I think. Seems to either be "too Hot or not" so far. Tina got her motorcycle and her hair cut(that goes with the bike). It is so HOT. So if you're cruisin in Rhode Island keep your eyes peeled for the wild lady and the Big Black Bike. (She's gotta meet Linda and Suz). I am surrounded by Biker Ladies. Who knows. Maybe my next adventure will be....

FAMILY GROUPIES

My ever lovely and gracious MOM is enjoying her Newlywed status. She and Ernie are off to visit her family in Kentucky this week and then on to the Carib for my brother Jeff's 50th Birthday Bash. My birthday is the day after his (Aug 24th and 25th), but I am not that old yet. Give me 5 years. Good health and true love seem to be encompassing my mom's life. she is such
a blessing to me. My children are all busy about adventuring and growing. Ptarmigan has been gallivanting with the 2 grandchildren (Jael,now 5 months: Zeb 2 years and 3mos) enjoying church events and hubby Scott. Ptarmi did a roadtrip to Indiana to visit her Aunt Larky and then touched into Ohio with a wonderful friend Laura Green. Made it safely home. Phew!!
Meanwhile her husband was touring Bulgaria with their youth group, visiting my sister and her family. Always a meaningful experience to all who endeavor. Kristy and her boyfriend Matt have been trying to take a "refreshing " break from studying medicine and enjoyed several nice hikes and kayaking experiences. But she is already back hard at work. Definitely
making that huge investment it takes to see a dream come true. Cooper has gotten certified in raft guiding and joined his brother Keel in North Creek on the Hudson. Keel took another step and got his certification to instruct kayaking hoping to be able to travel to far reaches of the earth in search of wild waters, a portable career to take with him. In fact, as I write, he
is way "out there" in China and then Thailand on a discovery trip. His first time really "over seas", he and his girlfriend are mixing business and holiday. Can't wait to hear of their travels. Fletcher, too, has been exploring China while on business. His expertise in composite fabrication has given him opportunity to travel again in September. He is getting the "bug". It is a big world. My Family in-love(ex in-laws) are also doing very well. Don and Carolyn Brightman, avid supporters and friends have always kept close and have been enjoying their summer with family and the great out-of-doors. All my bros (all 5 of them now) and sis keep in touch and send big hugs and thanks to all.

KEEPIN IN TOUCH

Others have been so persistent to keep in touch with me and keep the pressure on to make new contacts and be sure I am prepared and equipped for the upcoming "letting go of the dock lines" in November which will mark the beginning of another incredible leg of this circumnavigation.

Pat Henry - Coming About Sailing School for Women. Pat keeps me going with resources, information, and encouragement as I am trying to get my health back on track and psyche focused to the refit at hand. I am delving more into a variety of yoga practices and getting as much rest as I can fit in. I have really curtailed my "music nights out" to stay home and rest. The refit is of utmost importance. I can't lose sight of that for a moment. The boat has to be ready. Thanks Pat.XOXO and to all
the ladies there that regularly think of me and "pray".

Gillian Stock, a true Pirate and sailing legend, Gillian continues to forward my information to contacts she has had from so many years of sailing and investing in the sailing world. I need to get better at how to surf the cruising net boards and forums, I guess. Sailors out there are talkin to each other. Alot of sailors from NZ keep in touch through these forums. I am hoping to get an internet connection that isn't a "pay as I go" scene. Cant just sit and surf and type for hours on end here. Thanks millions "Fudgie".

Far away Places

It is always great to get a letter from Tess Cass and family or Ron Holland, in Ireland, who keeps informed of my progress in his homeland of NZ. Letters from Linda Bick, riding her motorcycle around the world who is now in Bangkok. She has amazing tales to tell. Her web is full of photos and great stories, incredible wisdom. Of course, Pat in Mexico. please keep the threads happenin.!!

Friends

I am happy as I get on line and have fresh ideas and sendings, photos, music, from home and far away. My brothers are so faithful to keep in touch. Scott Damgaard has the best scene happenin in the music world in Boston and surrounding states, on his website. He "takes lots of pictures" and has the expertise to get them together on his website each week. so if you are in Boston and want a good night of music, check him out. Please do write. I really enjoy the "chat" . gotta get lots of letters stored up for the long haul and I'll always write back.

So, until November 16th, you can still get me here at donnalange@hotmail.com. or if you want to pick up the phone, check the rates first, country code 64 211609013. If you are already in NZ just 021 1609013 works. You can text me on that same phone from "ANYWHERE". Just amazing technology. I can text back. WOW!! After November, Tina will be weeding through my website and putting friends letters aside, so be sure to make it easy to recognize your letter as a "friends" letter. When I hit land in April 2007, I can read through those letters put aside and SAY HELLO.

Big hugs and a love,

Fairest of Winds and Love, Only Gratitude,

Donna

July 26, 2006 - Donna Lange Updates

New CD really “hot” - Having that new CD really makes a difference. It’s not just to make money, though it keeps expense money coming in, but it is so cool to have it to share with folks who are really intrigued or have enjoyed the songs I have shared in some of the sessions I have been able to join. It gives me a professional posture when approaching gigs. Thanks again Janet (graphics, kick in the arss), Dan (studio), Have Inc (duplicator,printing) and all who helped me get it together. Available for 20$ through website or by contacting my mom.

Roadtrip - I’m getting settled back in here in New Zealand but was thrilled to get an opportunity to get to do this road trip before I got too lost in the boat projects. Suz's daughter lives in the south of New Zealand’s North island so last week I hitched a ride. The mountains were breathtaking on the trip down. They were all snow peaked which is somewhat unusual here, but it has been a snowy, cold winter. I spent the night with her and family enjoying an incredible home grown and roasted meal. Next day I took a bus to Wellington, the capital and did some busking along the Queen’s Wharf with the gorgeous backdrop of the harbour. I met some nice folks, made a few dollars and met up with a friend of Suz's. Went to the TePapa Museum in the morning and headed back north again by noon. It’s funny how they don't heat their houses here, but I have come to the conclusion that if it isn’t cold enough to freeze your water pipes, heat is optional. It was 48 degrees in the house I was staying at in the morning.

Rotorua’s Hot Mineral Springs. Live Volcano - Then I stopped in Rotorua about 2/3 the way back in the central island. I have a contact there George Marcotte I met through internet who is a fellow solo sailor. He had sailed from the west coast of America several years ago and has never left. The town of Rotorua is in a volcanic crater. It is active and hot mineral springs are bubbling up everywhere. There is steam rising all over town. It was a cold and rainy day so I spent the whole day at the Hot Springs soaking and working out. Was great. I am so far out of shape it is scary but I am doing all that I can to work back into it. We had a wonderful night going to a traditional Maori Village concert that was really more of a demonstration of the culture of the indigenous Maori people, very American Indian like but in a polynesian setting. The host was multi lingual, had a great heart and sense of humor. The evening began walking along bush pathways to a demonstration of a war canoe dance, song and skills. It was raining and very cold and yet the “warriors” were still dressed in loin clothes alone. We were then lead to the steam pit where the guest’s dinner was still roasting. The walk ended in a large tented area, the stage area open to the bush where again, the dancers were often out in the rain while we were sitting amidst many room heaters. They performed a true peace ceremony during which we were welcomed to the islands by this tribe of the Maori people. It was incredibly genuine and great fun. George had never been so he likewise enjoyed the experience. We had walked to the
village in the pouring rain, but the folks at the village arranged a lift home for us. I got a good night sleep, thanked George and got on the bus the next morn to head back to Auckland.

Reconditioning Donna - The road trip worked wonders. It gave me a lot of time on the buses to think through what is coming. To passively organize my thoughts. It is as if the ole brain computer was workin away in the quiet. I spent a lot of
time just not thinking actively. The hot mineral springs in Rotorua were wonderful. Suz’s house is across a couple of towns from my boat so I'm doing a lot of walking, miles and miles to get around. It is starting to turn the tides. I took my first Yoga class here. It is a Hot class. They keep the room at 100degrees so it is like a sauna. I just drip the acidity away. I really feel I am beginning to heal. I'm going to do a full month with as many classes as I can make. A bit of a 'boost'. Then I'll see if I can get my own routine going. I’m still not taking it slow enough though. I am pushing too hard, hurtin too much. It will come together with time.

Inspired Insanity - The boat is coming along too. I am getting ready to move back on board so I can be right there and get more time working on the boat. I got the plywood of the lockers and v-berth sanded and painted to reseal it for the next 5
months of wet conditions. The bottom is nearly ready for new paint. One of the fellows in the yard put me on to an electrician who came on board, surveyed the systems, took off the batteries to be checked, serviced and charged, plus he is sourcing the electrical gear I will need. He is fantastic, Robert Gibson.   The wind generator is working, but I’ll need a new alternator. I’ll need to do the rewiring then get new radios all wired up. The SSB will be quite involved. A long list. We'll haul the mast next
week so I can straighten the mast step and have a backing plate made. The deck really looks like it is compressing. I definitely need to reinforce the step. With the rigging down, I'll look at the wire carefully. lalalalalala it's a boat. By the end of this weekend I am hoping to be home again on II boat and get her back together. Once the rigging is done and some bottom paint, she can splash.

Racing - I am racing every Friday with some great guys. I am hoping to also race on the weekends in a more competitive spinnaker flying class. I am anxious to get some experience with the spinnaker. Already though, I can see how better to rig my pole to make setting it easier. Some ideas on better sail shape on different points of sail too. Good stuff.

Mr. Music please! - I am finding the Auckland area is bustling with great live music. Suz introduced me to some awesome folks and it is snowballing fast. Between great traditional folk, irish type sessions, to open stages, to brilliant jazz and blues venues. The players are so open and just incredibly talented and skilled. Tonight I am speaking and playing for a Club Night at Victoria Cruising Club in Westhaven Marina. Suz is off on a trip with her granddaughter, visiting from the states, so her roommates have been kind enough to offer to drop me there, and another musician is going to give me a lift home later. Every day is an adventure but by living this spontaneously, I get to watch serendipity take good care of me. I am getting more relaxed with it and trying to let it all come together without stressing. So far so awesome!!

New Sponsor - www.mtiadventurewear.com -
MTI Adventure Wear has taken on the task of keeping me dry and warm on this next leg of the tour around Cape Horn. I have been sorted out with several waterproof dry tops, some fully gasketed at the wrists and neck while others are more open necked for comfort in less severed conditions, pants and a new lifejacket. They are all made of a high tech three layered fabric system which is completely waterproof. This gear is what keeps those insane white water paddlers warm and dry when they jump off waterfalls in snow run-off waters in the arctic regions of the world. It was my wild water paddling Keel and Fletch who really convinced me to try to find a dry suit sponsor. Keel is sponsored for much of his paddling gear as he continues to excel and become an instructor in kayaking so he believed I would be succesful.   It was very frustrating for them to know I was hurtin, wet and cold when they knew there is better gear out there to keep me warm and dry. Well, now I have it. Thanks Millions, Lili Colbi and all at MTI Adventure Wear (www.mtiadventurewear.com) . And while you check out their website, you can check out my new CD. Lili has traded for my music to be available on the website. Just click on the 2 music notes in the upper right corner and you can hear my music as well as other neat artists playing “water planet music”.

New Camera - I have a new little digital camera. Hang in there with these ‘wordy’ newsletters a bit longer. Will Barbeau has been helping with the photo PDF’s of some of the gigs and tour. Hopefully I’ll get my computer back up and be able to add more photos too.

Huge Hugs to all. Please keep in touch. I love MAIL!!   Fairest of Winds and Love, Only Gratitude,

Donna

June 14, 2006 - Donna Lange
Time sure FLIES when you are surrounded by such amazing people all working so hard to make a dream come true. That has been my experience every day since I have returned to the states. From being met by family and a TV 10 cameraman at the Airport to the amazing miracles that are coming together for the concert on Thursday. Who could have dreamed there would be a brand new CD with the songs I just wrote on the first leg of the trip, all recorded and produced in such a short time. I didn’t. It was one of these amazing people who lit a fire under my arss to get going with it.

Before I left New Zealand the folks there had hauled my boat. I got new coats of resin on the rails and the boat cleaned, humidifier on board…All with the incredible help of the Fabulous people of Milford Marina and Cruising Club, Suz Bailey, Richard Thorpe and many new friends. As I am here, I get emails every day from the NZ Team of more equipment finds and
skilled help that is being lined up to get me underway once back in New Zealand.

Now that I am stateside, so much is going on. I am catching up with my family, children and new granddaughter. My mom had a lovely wedding and we have been able to welcome Ernie Moore into this wild family. What a delight the newlywed couple is. My son, Keel joined me playing the song “Golden Years of Love”, which was magically given to me in the south ocean, for their reception. It was a rare happening that all of the family was home for the wedding. All the children and grandchildren on both sides of the family of the bride and groom were there from far reaches of the world. Pure Joy everywhere.

A remarkable event was my trip to NYC with Stewart Kahn. I had jumped at the chance to go to the alumni celebration for the Stay–n- Out/ Serendipity program graduates and all those who take part in the program. This is the part of what I am doing that is so important to me. Stewart had suggested I bring my guitar and that I may get a chance to say a few words of
encouragement. What he didn’t tell me until after we arrived at the event was that the program was going to give me an award for the role of encouragement I have been to the ladies and gents in the program. We had chatted on the way to the city about what I may say to the ladies and both Stewart and his wife Sherry coached me a bit to be mindful of sharing the parts of my story that would let them know the “real” story and the challenges I have met that are like theirs. It was amazing. Stewart was the one who gave the speech that would introduce me and help me decide where to start. The whole group was with me as I shared about being a young mom, working, struggles with alcohol and self esteem. But as I told them how I had gone back to school to get my degrees, they cheered me on.   As I told them how I ended up on a sailboat they were with me. It was incredible. Then I noticed that there was a line of people standing next to each other at the back of the hall. It distracted me as I spoke when I realized that each one held a sign, a letter. I couldn’t make it out from so far away so I turned to Stu and asked him what it said.   At that moment the Ladies roar” Welcome Home Donna”. They had spelled it out on the signs. I turned to Stu and said” you promised you wouldn’t make me cry”. He returned, “no, I never promised”. One of the ladies handed me a beautiful bouquet of roses. I was a bit long winded (surprise surprise) by the time I finished the “short version” of the story, but they were kind and it was amazing. As soon as there was a break enough, I went and found the ladies and thanked them. They were so welcoming and excited for me and for the encouragement that seeing a woman do what I am doing, gives them. WOW! The afternoon continued with amazing stories of successes and the overcoming spirit that would allow these men and women to successfully stay out of prison upon returning to the “real world”. The program reaches so much farther than I realized. Stewart has been the Chairman of the Board for many years, which I didn’t know. The whole day was just wonderful. An amazing connection was also made. One of the first people I was introduced to was a minister from New Zealand. With her full blown accent, she and I enjoyed chatting about familiar harbors. She was one of the guest speakers giving an induction and she shared how the framework of the Stay –n-Out program was being adopted to use as a NZ prison treatment program. I am going to be able to get I contact with them when I return to NZ. Many handshakes and hugs later, we were heading back north toward the Old Stone Farm. I enjoyed such a respite in the greenery and amongst the beautiful Morgan horses Stewart and Sherry have there. My longing for the mountains and forests was satisfied with the smell of the ponds and leaf beds under the still early growth of leaves on the tall hardwoods. I even climbed a tall pine just to feel the kid in me get a chance to peek out from behind the new sprigs of grey hair and reading glasses that seem to be staying on my nose more and more lately. For a moment in time, I was above the trees, and I didn’t bother explaining away the pine pitch all over my hands or stuck to my pants. Some things shouldn’t change.

When I returned to Upstate NY, I hit the ground runnin with 3 Irish and bluegrass concerts and 2 jam sessions in 24 hours with Janet Yeates who has been a facilitator of gigs for years and a true believer in me. I made so many fabulous contacts with wonderful players and old friends. Then Janet got on me. “Donna, you can’t do a concert and not have any CD’s to sell at
all. What’s the point if you are tryin to raise money for the food and refit for the next leg?” She planted a bomb. One of the concerts we went to was with the Sun Mountain Band (where I also met up with Bea Handel). This band has a winter regrouping in the Caribbean and I had been catching up with them for years in jams there. Dick got me playin a whistle tune and we chatted forever after the concert was over. I mentioned to Dick that I was going to try to find a place to do a recording, even going to try to get the CD out for the concert on the 15th. Well, one of the guys in the band, Steve, offered to help with his equipment. That was all the encouragement I needed. But with the distance of travel, Janet and I decided to try to get in contact with a wonderful Adirondack folk musician, Dan Berggren, who had moved to Ballston Spa, Local, and had a studio set up. All it took was a phone call and we were miraculously going to be able to squeeze in an afternoon recording session The Next Day. We jumped off by faith in to a project I don’t have money for but it is the very tool I need to raise the money and I am trusting we will. 16 tracks. All the new songs written while I was at sea are recorded, as well as older songs written at sea that have never been recorded and it is all being produced as I type. Janet has been feverishly designing the graphics for the CD and covers, battling computer programs and passwords to get the files in the necessary format for print. Yet, as is always true of any work Janet does, it is gorgeous, impeccably professional and inspired. She had one photograph of me sailing my boat that Ptarmigan, my daughter, took a few years back and she has done miracles. We have a CD. And now the concert is also a CD Release Party.

If you haven’t checked out the Website recently, it is really exciting to see what Neil has done. The poster for the concert is the opening page. Looks so great, I can’t believe it is “my” website. And Neil has made it so easy to catch up with all the TV, radio, magazine and newspaper articles that have been happening over the last month and a half. Plus, if you put my name into google or your search engine, the articles and shows come up that way. Click away. Just incredible. Each link takes you right to the articles, from a news TV show in New Zealand, New Zealand papers, to the radio show For Wind and Seas, a full length show really digging in with the whole story and lots of great questions answered. Scott Jones, the host has also chimed in to get me a SSB and all the parts needed for installation. Big Huge WOW! Free (except for power) communication and weather. A bit of respite for the faithful weathermen who daily and often severally a day, fed me weather via the sat phone.   As you venture into the other links, you will find more interviews and articles, some printed while I was still at sea and others once back on land. It is amazing for me to see how far reaching friends have taken my journey’s story. If you are a faithful
“Hudson Valley Sampler” radio show listener as I have been over the years (90.3 FM on Saturday nights 8-10pm with Wanda Fisher), Wanda has both of my CD’s and has been wonderful about playing cuts and requests. Feel free to give her a call or email (wanda@WAMC.org). So enjoy the website and don’t forget to check out my sponsors, an ever growing list of emates” (that’s for you, Suz).

I love hearing from old classmates and family friends who are catching the articles in the local newspapers, here in the Capital District. Look forward to seeing old friends and new tomorrow night at the concert. Enjoy!

Much love and hugs,
Fairest of Winds and Love,
Only Gratitude,
Capt Donna Lange

May 6, 2006 - Donna Lange
Just a great day.  A wonderful local racer, solo sailing lady, Linda, joined me today to move the boat to Milford Marina where I have been offered boat haul and help with reparations. I was met on the dock by the commador, Daryl and owner, Les and several other memebers of the club.  I am to be an honored guest at the thursday dinner where I'll share stories, music and get a jam/sing along session going. I can't wait. They will haul the boat for me and take down the mast. When I return from the States, I can get going on the repairs. There is a possible machine available to restitch sails and other great help.  So much thanks to all these folks for their help and support. Also I want to thank Westhaven Marina in Auckland who sponsored me for my first 2 nights here without charge.  The marina and cruising club in Opua also honored me with introductions and such while I was there for a couple of days. The TV show Close-Up was amazing . Tonight I go to a hot pools and mineral baths to "soak" to help with the back and neck soreness.  I wasn't prepared for how sore I was going to be the next day after getting to Auckland.  The visits to the doctor have really just caused more inflammation. I am afraid I'm not going to heal overnight.  I was under alot of stress for a very long time. The forces against my body were so intense, i am not surprised I am knotting up so.   Please bare with me. I am concerned for Tom Outman. I want to know how his treatments are going? How does he feel?   He wanted to come to NZ but couldn't. Maybe he still can later on.  I can't thank Tom enough for all his incredible availablitlty day and night. Such a long trek.  Love, donna.

May 5, 2006 - Donna Lange
I have really been so sore and such that I have gone to bed really early the past two nights. It has taken a bit for me to be able to type.  I am seeing a doctor today for a neck and leg injury. See if I can hasten the healing. Back on good vitiamins and supplements now.  I will be bouncing in no time. Tonight they will air the show "Close-up", which they filmed on the boat with me as I was coming into Auckland. What a blast we had, and they were so hearty. It was pouring rain. Very authentic circumstances. As usual, I didn't get enough opportunity to thank everyone. Oh it has been amazing. Suzanne brings me breakfast in bed!!! Tomorrow, I will take my boat over to a marina up a little creek, in the middle of town, with a new friend Linda. I'll be close to everything, and while I am working on the boat, the owner has offered me accomodation. I am getting my ticket worked out today to go home to see my new grand baby and mom's wedding. Should leave the 24th. I'll be able to travel with a fellow from here going to NYC. So cool. Hope you are all well. Wonderful.!! The TV show even had me singing, so it may helpme get some gigs too. love to you all, h uge hugs. love ya, Donna

Fairest of Winds and Love, Only Gratitude,

Donna

May 2, 2006 - Donna Lange
I have a good start to Auckland. Moving well. Best sailing in months. Rain is letting up. All is good. 3522S 17428E

May 1, 2006 - Donna Lange
Suzanne got things all setup in Auckland. I'm heading south now. Headwinds right now but should be improving as I get out further. I'm going to take my time. Opua was absolutely amazing. I still feel like I have a lot of recovering to do but my spirit is soaring.

April 29, 2006 - Pat Henry
Donna, you did it!!! I'm so proud to know you and to have been able to watch your beautiful passage to triumph. I hope you are enjoying some very welcome sleep and many hugs of congratulations. A little skin contact is pretty welcome, I bet. You'll have a zillion emails to answer, don't worry about a response.  Just want you to know I'm cheering you from Mexico. Many hugs, Pat

April 28, 2006 - The Donna Team
Thank you Suzanne Bailey and Richard Thorpe in New Zealand for all you have done in advance and all you are about to do for Donna.

April 28, 2006 - Tom Outman @ 07:30 EDT
Tom: Glad your safe. Worried about you the last few days. Love from all. XOT Tom
Donna: Thank you Tom! I feel great to be here. Thunderstorm raging outside. Safe in outer harbour. Make way in at dawn. Quiet landfall. Need heal days. Don't think I ever hurt everywhere so bad. Love you all.

April 28, 2006 - Donna Lange @ 0012 EDT
Engine stalled. Battery is done. 30 nm to Cape Bret, Bay of Island, Opua. Can't sail to Auckland with weather. To far for a tow. No charter Opua but safe. Can't go into Opua in the dark. Gonna hang out at sea. Go in with the dawn. Sleep now.

April 27, 2006 @ 0212 EDT - Donna Lange
ENGINE IS RUNNING!! BAD BRUSH
A bad brush in the starter but got it to go. Batteries are doing well. Problems with fuel air locking. Fuel is filthy, cloudy, condensation and bio crud gives me only a few hours with the filter. She air-locks every 1/2 to 1 hour. But it will get me around the Cape North with an East wind. Then wind should shift WNW running me dead down wind. Moving to next waypoint out 85 nm. Hope to be there tomorrow evening.

I'm running on the engine. Need clean fuel. If no wind and I run out of filters, I'll may have to stop in Opua. But not if I can help it. I'm not quitting.

April 26, 2006 - Donna Lange @ 1313 EDT
The night just gets more intense. A massive thunderstorm front has been creeping closer. Incredible show but it looks like I'm going to have to hit it head on. Prayers please. It's a bad scene.

I am dying NE wind. When will it change? This front is massive. Nothing about it in the weather report. Big lightning. Narley, gonna eat me and knowone Melbourn Weather Bureau missed it.

April 26, 2006 - Donna Lange @ 1015 EDT
Miracle. Try heading of 100. Got her sailing on a beam NW. Away from islands. Hope dawn brings NW winds of 10 knots like weather report suggests. Weather not cooperating. Tried engine but battery is not good enough. Wiring? No go. Got to sail unless I get a jump. Worst case, stop in Opua? Stay on boat and wait for weather. Work on engine jump. All good.

April 25, 2006 - Donna Lange
Good morning hug. Just woke to be 90 degrees off course. Lucky wind less than 2 knots. Only lost 3nm south. But scared me. Awake now. Should SH NW wind, now west. 3354S 17041E, 78nm to waypoint. 328 to dock. XOD.

April 24, 2006 - Donna Lange
Last of the squalls yesterday AM according to the Melbourn Weather Bureau. Looks good for coast areas. I'm feeling tears of relief. Time to rest. I am not there yet. Plenty of hard sailing to do. Wierd currents and seas where Pacific Ocean meets. South wind 15-20, SW swell. 3407S 16720E 1130 local time. I will play tunes for you Tom. Dolphins too."

April 22, 2006 - Donna Lange
Now have a 15 kn wind at my beam. It's heaven. 3447S and 16455E. COG 082. I will not be able to sleep down the East coast of New Zealand. That will be very hard to solo. Will call Harbormaster (Jim) today for procedures on Customs and docking location.

April 21, 2006 - Donna Lange
Got a northwest wind. A massive front. Hours now of torrential rain squalls. One after the other. Wind 40 kn plus in first one. Clouds of grey, narly heaps. No end yet in sight. I'm okay.

....I think the sqalls are past. All soaked. Jib with new torn seams. She's got to make it. I'm pooped. All good. Hug. I will be strong to the finish because I eat me spinach. Popeyette the sailor woman. Long day ahead. All safe now. Thanks to all for loving me. Donna.

April 20, 2006 - Donna Lange
Spoke to Ron Holland and his family (one of New Zealands most respected yacht designers and boat builders). They will be there also to greet me. He is helping with some boat yard info and contacts for repairs and needed equipment. I have no Pilot Manual for entry procedures. Need help with phone numbers, Harbor Master, etc. Radio only works in very close. Would like to be at a dock the first few nights and arrange out haul. Get the boat empty and dry out. The list is very long. First must decompress. I don't know how to thank everyone, there's no words. I GUESS I SHOULD THINK ABOUT WASHING MY HAIR!!

April 19, 2006 - Donna Lange
My destination is Auckland where my boat will be hauled. Suzanne will be there. I have some indirect contacts in Opua and hope to visit there. Maybe get a gig at a yacht club if possible. I plan to go to the U.S. for my mothers wedding on May 29th. I'll be in the U.S. until July. I hope to record a CD while I'm there if I can get some sponsors. Then back to New Zealand to fix the boat and play music and do benefits, etc. "FIRST SQUALL JUST AHEAD. HERE WE GO. WISH ME LUCK & STRENGTH. XOD

April 18, 2006 - Donna Lange
GMHUG! Pace slowed, close hauled but good. 4/19 3650S 157E. Add 1/2* north and 2* east per day. Wind steady. Make sure steering tight. Sleep? Beautiful day! Warm, love it! XOD

April 17, 2006 - Donna Lange
Donna - GM HUG! REAL SLOW DAY. WIND BACK UP NOW ON NOSE. N 15-20, SEAS 4'-6', COG 083, 3732S 15404E; Phone problem? Charging now. Stalling and have to restart. If you don't hear from me at some point, no worry, just the phone acting up.

April 17, 2006 - Carol Dutcheshen
I was one of the two students on Pat Henry's boat on the 14th when Donna called Pat. We are in awe of Donna's (and Pat's) bravery and determination, and she is in our thoughts and prayers.

April 16, 2006 - Donna Lange

Thanks for relaying Pat's messages. The prayers are working. The winds have steadied. I got good rest the last two nights. Feel much better. More energy and strength. I visualize Pat teaching. I'm encouraged. So much love to her. Food is okay. Winds are calming. I can do it. Just keep adjusting sails. Love, Donna.

April 15, 2006 - Donna Lange
This is 3rd gale in seven days. Next will be on the 18th. Four in 12 days. Intense swells beyond edge of sea and coast. South current down coast, meet swells. All okay but wild.

Long night. Winds finally steady. Rested a bit. Keep up the prayers. My ship is awesome. All of our work paid off. Thanks to all hands.

Got desperate earlier and called Pat (Henry). She is amazing. Winds became steady right after our talk and I could rest. Please thank her for me.

April 15, 2006 - Pat Henry

Donna, I was so glad to hear your voice last night and so sorry that the credit ran out on my cell phone in the middle of our visit. I was out on a three-day cruise with students...great women. We joined hands and sent you love and energy and a prayer for you for strength and wisdom at this precious time. While I did not ever test myself as you are in this goal, I know the feeling of exhaustion and the overwhelming wish that it would all be over, that you could curl up and sleep forever and just do nothing at all for a few months! Hang in there, gal!!!!! You are wonder woman and you can. Looking for good news on your site....with love, Pat

April 14, 2006 - Donna Lange
It's so beautiful. A morning squall is burning off. Sailing on a beam. The outer islands of this southern Australia strait are steep and scattered about. The land is terraced with steep hills. I have a 15-20 kn wind with full sunshine. New birds have joined me every where. It's about 60 degrees. Very mystical. What a priviledge it is to be here. Thank you Stu and all the team. So glad to see this. Very alluring. Sailing a hard and slow travel as I head back out to sea on this beautiful Spring day. I can be barefoot and wash my hair while things dry out. I'm taking it easy because I'm very tired. Too much traffic to sleep. Love to all, Donna.

April 14, 2006 - Tom Outman
Donna has just passed the Hogan Islands in the Bass Strait and is standing well into the Tasman Sea. About 1,260nm to the top of North Islands, say to waypoint 32S 173E, before she turns southeast for Auckland. Then another 300+nm and DONE! Say 16+ days! ...tom

I estimate that if she heads for top of North Island she'll run into East winds from a high moving east of North Island through 4/19 which is a far as Buoyweater presently forecast. I figure, given the 2.5* per day estimate she'll reach 173E on about the 25th. It's longer going between the islands because she'll have to go around the eastern bulge of north island to get to Auckland. We'll see what she wants to do.Maybe head for 37S 170e and see what it looks like then..tom

April 13, 2006 - Linda Lange
Just talked to Donna and she is doing great. She is ready to enter the straits and is amazed at herself that she is there.

April 11, 2006 - Donna Lange
GMHUG! 3913S 14141E. Wind W 20KN Seas 10', 4-5 KN, mild squall. All is good. Saw my first big ship. It's sunny and 58 degrees. I'm drying out. My course over ground is 90 degrees.

April 10, 2006 - Donna Lange
I have been talking with Melbourn Meteorology Bureau and Mebourne Search and Rescue. Not STR FT (webmaster has no clue what this is). This will be OK and will get me through. Seas...Forecast not real. All great. All west wind. Pray always needed. I too am human. Love Donna.

April 10, 2006 - Donna Lange
FOUND HOLE IN JIB. HAD 2 STITCH OR BLOW SAIL. HAD TO 2 STAND ON BOW PULPIT. WILD. NOT PRETTY BUT HOPE IT WORKS. IF NOT CLOSE HAUL, GORGEOUS. PRAY WIND TO WEST. WARM AND SUN. SWEET SLEEP.

April 9, 2006 - Donna Lange
4026S 13553E N/NNE WIND 25KNOTS. DIFFICULT TO MAKE WAY NORTHWARD. AS CLOSE TO WIND... AS CAN. TOMORROW WIND SHOULD BE WNW, CAN MAKE BETTER NORTH THEN. BELLY STILL YUCK FROM FOOD POISONING.

April 9, 2006 - Tom Outman

DOTS ON CHART (ISLANDS?) SUROUNDED BY 30M WATER MIGHT NOT BE SUBMERGED. SAFETY SUGGEST STEER THRU OPEN WATER PASSAGE PER ROUTE DETAIL TO THREAD THE STRAITS: From W/P@3920S144E STEER 100*T 126NM TO 3940S14641E. TURN TO 048*T FOR 60NM TO 3859S 14740E THEN HEAD FOR NORTH IS 32S173E XOT"...tom

April 8, 2006 - Donna Lange
Had a bad can of food last night. Food poisoning. Belly better now. Location 4048S 13445E, North wingd squal 2-25KN.

April 8, 2008 - Unknown
My understanding of weather in the southern ocean at this time of year is that 40knots and 30 feet seas are part of the equation. In a 28 foot boat these conditions are challenging but frankly should be expected, and can be survived with the right organisation/ preparedness, luck and courage. These qualities are of course compromised by sleep deprivation, the curse of the solo sailor. Only Donna can judge whether she can deal with these factors, but I assume after 150 days at sea, she has already coped with most things she will encounter. If Donna is low on food and without long range radio comms and decides to seek shelter and assistance, she should look at website as follows...

April 8, 2006 - Donna Lange
Warm hug to you! It is warm (Yea) & sunny. Rain too. I can now the coast so unstable...always squall lines. I will be careful watch in Bass. Promise be safe keeping...Tom, do you trust me?

Tom Outman: Always babe, you got this far OK!."...tom

April 7, 2006 - Donna Lange

Can you get in touch with Barry? Need phone number for Aussi Coast Guard for Straits. Need more information. Really at a loss without SSB radio. Just found Ausi number. Can you get Country code? Thanks.

Just spoke to Melbourn Meteorology Bureau and Aussi Search and Rescue. Good report to go North through Straits for 4/12 thru 4/14. Yes, all safe. COG 080. Thanks to Judy in New Zealand. Mom of charter crew friend.

Just called New Zealand Search and Rescue. They call me. Knew about me and been watching progress. They call Ausi Search and Rescue. Search and Rescue call me. Have number Meteorology Bureau. I feel much peace with their watch. Great people.

April 6, 2006
Donna has not yet decided whether to go North or South of Tasmania. The straits involve many hazards. Severe weather is becoming a major consideration. One option is to seek the shelter of land, stock some food, and wait out the storms.

April 5, 2006
Donna sends congratulations to Dee Caffari for rounding her final cape (Cape of Good Hope) and taking off on her final stretch to her homeland. Donna is also very excited about a new contact in Auckland by the name of Suzanne Bailey. Suzanne has offered some arrival support for Donna's New Zealand landing in May.

April 4, 2006 - Donna Lange
GM STU.BUNCH A HUGS! 4150S 124E, WI 35+KN SSW. GUSTS 40-45KN? SEAS 10-20. VARIABLE.OUCH. HARD HIT! NEAR BEAM 2 GO 090. WET!FEET!45*IN. MANAGE OK. XOXOD

April 4, 2006 - Dee Caffari
I rounded the final of the three great capes today. We passed The Cape of Good Hope at 1600hrs this afternoon. That now ends the chapter on the Southern Ocean. We can smile in the knowledge that we survived and conquered the greatest and most remote stretch of water on the planet. I had a mixture of feelings. I was definitely massively relieved; I also felt proud of Aviva and the team, as together we overcame the worst conditions I have ever sailed in. In addition, I couldn't help but feel a little sad at saying goodbye to the Southern Ocean.

March 29, 2006 - Donna Lange
Good evening. Hug! Great night for rest. Location is 4040S x 11448e. Wind is South at 8-10kn. Speed is 4-5 knots. Heading COG 105*T with 8' swells. Drizzling but warmer. Wondering if there are womans sailing organizations on Australia and New Zealand as possible support? Regarding Cooper's email, please send as much of Cooper's message as possible. I rarely get a glimpse of his heart on paper. Please thank him. Passing Cape Leewin. Off in South Ausi Basin. Using new chart. I have 25 cans of beans left. I won't starve. Don't worry.

March 26, 2006
Tom Outman: Advise going lower as wind dies, tight isobars down south. 42-43S should do it.

March 24, 2006 - Exchange with Pat Henry (round the world solo sailor and author)
Pat Henry: Donna, I just realized last night that the message on my answering machine was from you!!!! (I could only get some of the words.) What a thrill. I am so sorry I wasn't home to receive it and give you a long distance hug of encouragement. You're an awesome lady. Keep seeing all that beauty and reminding the rest of us. Cheers and best wishes, Pat

Donna Lange: PLEASE LET PAT KNOW WHAT A SWEET HUG 2 HEAR FROM HER. JUST KNOWING SHE HAS BEEN OUT HEAR TOO AND SHARES THE INTENSITY OF THE SEAS DEEP STIRRING OF LIFE. THANK HER FOR HER BOOK & SPECIAL LIFE. IT SEEMS I AM ON EGGSHELLS TO KEEP SYSTEMS UP. IF YOU COULD DO IT PAT, I WILL KEEP AT IT. I HAVE 4-5 DAYS OF ROUGH SAIL AHEAD. I'LL HOLD PAT'S WORDS WHEN I'M LOSIN IT.

March 24, 2006 - Donna Lange
Good evening. I have had straight winds shifting to SSW. Swells are now 8 feet with a wild roll. Location is 4007S 9647E. Slept the best in months. Wandering a bit. Hope all is well. Love, Donna.

March 23, 2006
Donna: Good Evening and hugs to all! My location is 3955S X 9413E. Winds are NW all day yesterday and last night at 20-25 Kn and gusty. Some light rain and 6-8 foot swells. Thanks so much for everyones support.

Richard Thorpe of New Zealand - My colleague advises me that Donna can legally stay in New Zealand for 12 months on arrival. However, she should be careful about how she intends to raise money. She will not be able to be employed as she will be on a visitor's permit. She will of course be able to receive donations, but should be careful not to be "employed" to play her music in a bar or such like!

March 22, 2006 - Donna Lange
4001S9143E, Wind NNW 25kn, 8'seas, 4-5kn COG=090? Gusty ? Second propane tank has run out way to quick. Changing to new regulator and end fitting.

March 21, 2006 - Donna and Tom Outman
Donna: Warm sun but Insane wind. Lost 25 nm yesterday to wandering off course. Vane folows the wind. Wallowing...night-day. Gale all night. Not steady for a second. 4070 nm to Auckland, 41 days, estimate Winds SSE, vary 8-20kn, swells...8'.

Tom: Donna's next decision is whether to try to go through the Bass Straits between Tamania and Australia or duck under Tasmania for her final run to New Zealand. It's only about 55* longitute from her right now or reachable within 27 normal sailing days (but what are they anyway). I've been looking at the forecast for the straits and don't really like the wind patterns but I'm not sure what is "normal" down there. Although, as the passage is less than 200nm it's probable do-able, depending upon the position of lows just to the east of the island which would send easterly winds through the strait. I suggested she set a waypoint at 42*S x 140*E and we can see what's going on as she gets closer. Any thoughts?...tom

Donna: Original course was to go south of Tasmania for steadier winds and greater traffic. I have been considering the straits. Locals recommend straits for better approach to New Zealand. I'll decide by 120 E. May need supply.

March 15, 2006 - Dee Caffari

It's amazing that in the such a huge, hostile ocean we should come so close, but very unfortunate that it's not practical or sensible to try and get even closer. Best wishes for a safe passage to New Zealand but please give careful thought to the wisdom of sailing onwards to Cape Horn in such a small boat.

March 15, 2006 - Andrew Roberts

Elaine Bunting of Yachting World has kindly given me your email address and we hope that you will copy this message to Donna who is without doubt a very brave lady. We are glad that Donna is making good and safe progress despite being such a long way south in this most hostile of all oceans. As you probably know Challenge Business has 50 successful east west transits of the Southern Ocean under its belts during the last fourteen years, including some well documented dramas despite Challenge yachts being large and exceptionally well found. Our respect for the sea and in particular the Southern Ocean grows each time it allows one of our yachts to cross safely. We note your comments in your March 14 updates and we feel that you may not be aware of the risks, difficulties and dangers of a rendezvous at sea even in good conditions. Given the recent exceptionally volatile Southern Ocean weather, we consider that it is not sensible, practical or seamanlike to attempt a rendezvous because we believe that to take such an action would present unacceptable risks, particularly to the smaller yacht. Every day spent so far south, brings with it an increased chance of yet another storm and the risk of damage or injury. .Our experience has shown us that it is surprisingly difficult and time consuming to locate another yacht in large ocean swells even with all the modern technology available. Even in good visibility if the yachts were reefed they might have to be within a mile or so of each other to be visible and it would be unsafe for them to get closer than say half a mile. With both yachts under autopilot and Dee's inability to use her main engine without endangering her record attempt, they would have to stay so far apart that the only practical communication would be by VHF or Iridium phone. In addition please consider the unacceptable risk of crossing tracks at night while still trying to locate each other and the causes for concern that would bring. Having discussed it at length with Dee today, she commented that despite her enthusiasm for a rendezvous and her wish to support Donna, Dee's (enormous) experience tells her that, in the conditions that will probably be encountered, it would not be sensible to for Donna to move further south or for both yachts to attempt a rendezvous. We all wish Donna a safe and speedy passage to New Zealand and hope we can communicate in the future.

March 15, 2006 - Donna Lange
Ptarmigan is coming along. Kristy there, very special to her. Good sailing here. Seas 8 feet, course of NW COG 065. Just ready to get steady at 090 COG and make headway. All good. Wish Dee the best. Should have a good night. Hope you have a great day. Thank Barry for me.

March 14, 2006
PTARMIGAN IS IN LABOR!!! I'M SO EXCITED!!!
Stu:Last Dee website report was at 0758 and has her at 42.8/76.53 with course of 277. Looks to be SW of you, sorry. The further North you go, wind and waves will ease. My read for your current location is large chop, winds NNW 21-29, waves WSW 9'

March 13, 2006
Gusty winds but good sailing prevailed overnight for Donna. With both Donna and Dee Caffari free of the storm. Everyone is hoping for the navigation of a near passing between them. They are now about 450 miles apart and heading on converging paths.

March 12, 2006 - Neil VanGundy
Donna adjusted her course yesterday to a more southerly 110 COG. Her hope is to support a passing with Dee Caffari. Unfortunately, Dee is battling the severe storms that Donna struggled to avoid a few days ago. Dee has yet to battle through the Eastern side of the storm after already fighting 50 kn winds. The two are still 725 miles apart since Dee has made little progress. I am advising Donna to forge ahead based on her best weather advisements including iceberg advisories. The Dee passing may not be in the best interest of either.

March 11, 2006 - Donna Lange
GM HUGS. 4212S6916E WI 5KN S. COG 080 2-3KN. EXPECT SHIFT 2 NNE. GONNA B LT NT. SEAS 1M. T1ME 1633HERE. 0734EST. BY AM NEAR42S70E. 3/13 4130S7230E. 3/14 41S75E

Stu: d lt wn tnite. Rough wn wv so of u. 3/12 nnw2nw late 12-22, 3/13 nnw2nw 15-25, 3/14 nnw 21-32 early. XO S

March 10, 2006 - Donna Lange
Donna Lange: I have a lovely serene day. Fixing the jib pole, nearly done. 4142S 6655E Winds NE at 10kn. Moving 4kn at 180. Going slow until winds shift to North West later on Friday. Then head North East. I am well rested and have slept well.

March 9, 2006 - Stu Kahn

Stu: At S43 and E67, winds will be north to east at 9-13 for the next 24 hours. Seas peak to 20 feet by 9PM on the 10th. Where are you heading? wrote

Donna: Sorry toe. Using less. Text message more. I did maintenance today. Tightened nuts on the wind vane, hatch and did an engine lube. I am being a good captain. Hi to all. XOD"
She made a respectable 112.5 nm holding to a course 100* for an average speed of 4.7 knots. Very Good. -tom

February 8, 2006 - Tom Outman
Text Message "Good Morning Hug to ALL! I corssed into the Eastern Hemisphere at 0540 EST! Heading for the horn? I 'm at 3822S 0008E. The 40's are intense! 20-30 knots overnight. 15SW now, speed 6+ knots COG 110. Humbling! Tethered fast! (good) birds... closer each day. Wow! XOD"

February 7, 2006 - Tom Outman

Text Message 02/07 0800 EST. "Good Morning! Lost in fog. No worry? 3803S 0230W. Made some way last night. Slept! Phone deleted 6 old messages. Wind from NW 5-10 knots. COG 110*. It was 56 this morning. All good. XOD"
Over the last 48 hours she make 177 nm on a course of 111* averaging 3.4 knots. I also sent her a message that on 2/8 a staionary high is located 33S 6W wind at 20+ knots along 38S all the way to 12E. It should be great the next few days. Well earned! Welcome to roaring 40's XOT - tom

February 5, 2006 - Tom Outman
We had a lot of discussion back and forth about iceberg locations. She responded on 02/05 "Good Morning X. Sounds safe at 40S. I had error in calculating miles to New Zealand. My mind is not 3D. Keep on course on 40S, greater miles than steering 366*...sphere!"

February 5, 2006 - Another Text Message "Hi again, I am at 3704S and 0600W with a speed between 5 & 6 knots on a COG of 125*. I find connection with new God. Good to pray and praise. 155 push-ups today total. Hungry!"

ebruary 3, 2006 - Tom Outman
Text Message 02/03 at 0520 EST. " Good morning. Sailing fast this morning. Am I in a current? Position is 3531S 0925W. SPeed 5-7 knots, COG 110! A smooth front passed over earlier. Sunny and clear now. Collected water. Wind generator great. No luck fixing the alternator. XOD"

February 1, 2006 - Tom Outman
Text Message 02/01 0630 EST. "A beautiful morning. Wind light from the S, WSW, W, WNW, now North 2.5-3 knots. COG 135. I am at 3400S 1243W. Many wiund shifts in night. Full cls(?) Humidity 90%. Whales! pilot! small black, far out!... Swim. Refreshing. Hug XOD"

January 31, 2006 - Tom Outman
Text Message 01/31 0645 EST: "Good morning. Just got your news about the winds. 3308S 1339W COG has been 150-160. What position is the high? COG... 160-170 4 knots now. Wind ENE 5 knots. Sky clearing. overcast night and morning. XOD"
She made 91 NM yesterday on a course of 160* In an earlier message, I urged her to head South for a slot with NW winds at 35S. - tom

January 30, 2006 - Stewart Kahn
"GMXO! On Holiday! Too lovely to sail. Swim. Sing. 2 birds. Collected 8 gallons of H20 and washed clothes with rain yesterday. The battery is leaking acid and ruined the rice and candy stored nearby. 3143S 1417W "

January 30, 2006 – Tom Outman
From Donna 1/30 0650 EST: "Good Morning XO! 3143S 1417W, wind ESE 'FC#1 AM' But greater than 2-5kn. Speed 3kn COG 180." She only made 69nm on a course of 107*, averaging just under 3 knots -tom

January 29, 2006 – Tom Outman
Text message. 1/29 at 0800 EST: " GM Hug! 3123S 1535W Steady over night, 3-4kn. 10+kn Wind WNW. 4+kn. COG 140. Waypoint 38S05W Where are the highs 7 lows? OK? XOD." She made 92nm yesterday along a heading of 135*, for an average speed of 3.8kn. I informed her that SE winds are forecasted for her location with highs at 38S15W & 35S19W – tom

January 28, 2006 – Tom Outman
Text message. 1/28 0800 EST: "Another pristine day. 3018S 1651W 2.5-4kn COG 160 (Wind) 5kn NW. S to find wind...No Squall this AM. Write good song. XOD".
76nm on course 145*. I am advising her to head East to 30S15W for slot with stronger wind. - tom

January 27, 2006 - Stewart Kahn
01/27 0700 "GM STU. It is a heavenly day 2916S 1742W Wind 10kn out of the NW COG 118. 4 kn squall dush and dawn. I am happy and finding content. WHy not? moon slivers. Winking at the dawn. XO DM"

January 27, 2006 - Tom Outman
She made 121 nm yesterday, averaging arespectable 5kn over course 118*T I sent the following to her: "GM HUG Can aim for 38S10E COG 118 1/30 H @ 29S15E L@33S15W & H @ 37S 17W. Can you aim for slot above L ride westerly E? COG 148 265nm? - tom"

January 26, 2006 - Tom Outman
Message from Donna on 1/26 at 0730 EST. "GM Tom. Where r ya? OK, 2020S 1945W no wind all nite 2 now. WI>205kn...N/NE 3kn COG 130 1/27 2930S 1840W; 1/28 3030S 17W; 1/29 3130S 1530W; 1/30 33S 14W try? XOD"

She actually steered a course of 115* but made good only 71 nm. Forecast for her intended positions are 1/27 NW winds 11-18 kn. rain, but no thunderstorms. 1/28 WNW/S/SE winds 6-19 kn rain. I will try to convey to her to head East towards 28S 14W for NE winds. And, to meander between the high's trying to ride the lows East. -Tom

January 25, 2006-Tom Outman
From Donna 1/25 0600 EST: GM XO. 2751 S 2058 W COG 180. Sq & rain all yesterday and today. No wind 2 sq. Good progress yesterday. Getting there. 75th day, 9100 to go (9100 miles on the GPS) 6793 miles on the odometer.

She made 104 nm yesterday on a course of 097*T for an average speed of 4.3 knots. She says her COG is 180*. I wonder when she turned? - Tom

January 24, 2006 - Tom Outman
Four text messages from Donna: "GM XO 2739S 2255W. Record day. Wind NNW 15KN (COG) 090. 1/25 28S 21W. 1/26 29S 18W. 1/27 20S 16W. 1/28 3030 14 W. Move E or S? For NW/SW winds? How do I get to 38S? What is front of me? changes? Stul NW wind?...H? Rhum line XOD"

She covered 126nm on a course of 094*T for an average speed of 5.25 knots.

January 21, 2006 - Message From Donna

Text message from Donna 1/12 0830 EST: "Sailing east on course. 27S27W wind 10kn NE COG 120. 1/23 2720S25W: 1/24 2730S 23W:1/25 28S21W:1/26 26S19W Talked 2 my Mom. Good 4 me. Huge...Hug. Al ok.XD"

January 21, 2006 - Tom Outman
Multiple messages from Donna 1/21 0710 EST:
"Tom I need info so I can decide what I can do. Don't get wierd. Chris...txt low 30S 60E 28 W NE wind sun. Stay on top. XOD." followed by "GM HUG, 2746S 28W wind 25kn SE. I just don't know. Chris says hold 4 2 days 2...Get NW on top of gale. I a wreck. Want to quit. I just want 2 sail 2 NZ...XOD."

There is a large disturbance at 30S60E there is also one at 30S60W which is moving toward her. At her present position the winds from tomorrow are forecasted to be easterlies at 10kts. The high below her is moving east generating the SE winds and she should maintan her southerly course until the winds allow her to turn east, which should happen tomorrow, I hope! In a phone converstaion she said she will continue on her course south until she can turn east and head for 40S10E. She's very tired and frustrated with her lack of progress but still determined to continue on to NZ although she does seem glad that she has a choice to head home. Temperature for her now is in low 70's. -tom

January 20, 2006 - Tom Outman
Another three messages from Donna on 1/20 at 0500 EST: "Hi Coleen, I am thwarted. Day after day of SE wind. I go further away f...NZ than 2. 0-5 kn wind. 1-3kn COG 200-180, I cry. Stuck. Sunny warm I'll...go 4 swim XOD ." The current high, located directly below her, should move eastward over the next few days giving her more easerly winds and by sunday they should be more from the northeast althoiugh still at about 5 knots... tom

January 19, 2006 - Tom Outman Two text messages from Donna 1/19 0700 EST: " I can't believe it. I cant sail. no wind where I go what happened to...favorable wind? N or W? XOD." I replyed "1st light NW W 27S25W slot down SE from there. No real good news. Make SE as best can do. Hug T."...tom

Three text messages from Donna on 1/19 at 0600 EST: "Hi T. 2447S 2705W 4kn COG 080 Wind S. 0 wind yest 0900-0200 today.. 5kn.Dies ea day 0900. 1/20 2530S 2700W 1/21 2630S 2600W I have no idea. I just....sail whats here XD."

Unfortunately, she only made 36nm yesterday going toward 131*T. Unfavorable winds forecasted the next few days...tom

January 18, 2006 - Tom Outman

Three text messages from Donna on 1/18 at 0630 EST: "Good Morning Hug! A bird rode with me again. Love it! 2423 S 2820 W The wind is back! 5+ knots. COG 135. NZ HO! Wind N/NE 5-9, seems to <,W day & > nite. More today. WPT...30S20W stay W20W XD"

During the last day she advanced 71 nm along Cog 145*T. It is 558 nm to waypoint 30S20W at a COG 129*T -Tom

January 18, 2006 - Tom Outman

Following message sent to Donna "GM hug! High@36S06W provide good winds thru sat as it moves to 39S26W. Great slot to w/p next few days and stuff changes anyway X T" THese winds are earlier than buoyweather.com forecasted and maybe things will change again by Saturday when SE winds are again forecasted as the high moves SW - Tom

January 17, 2006, - Tom Outman

Yesterday was a slow day for Donna, she only progressed 24 nm on a course of 155. She is moving East, but at a very slow rate as she faces light, and adverse SE winds. Very light ENE-NE wids should kick in as she gets closer to latitude 25S - Tom

January 16, 2006 - Tom Outman

Text Message at 0445 EST. "GM. HUG. 2303S 2916W <5kn wind. COG 170-200 W wind. Basking in sun. XO D" Actual cog 197*T with light winds making only 53 nm - Tom

January 15, 2006 - Tom Outman

An early morning text message from Donna at 0440 EST. "Good Morning. Gorgeous day. 2 birds are perched with me. They even stayed when I was on deck 01/15 2212S 2859W COG 180-170"

She covered only 48.7 nm since yesterday with a COG of 190*T. I will send her the forecasted weather for 1/16. Winds ESE/E 124*-095* 5-9 KTS CLEAR. 1/17 ENE/ESE/E 066*/050* 1-9 knots CLEAR -Tom

January 14, 2006 - Tom Outman
Text message from Donna on 1/14 1000 EST "What is in front of me? 2124S x 2850W. Winds all over. Making some progress" This would make a COG of 181*T and covered distance of 101 nm from yesterday for an average speed of 4.2 knots. - tom

January 13, 2006 - Tom Outman

Text msg from Donna 1/13 0900 EST: "Wind 10-15 1943S 2848W Clear of rocks. Night from heaven near full moon his face is like santa from here, elec plug prob. steady,no squal. clear sun. Warm HUG XOD" I calculate she made a respectable 232nm during the last 48 hours for a COG of 175*T, averaging 4.8 kts...tom

January 12, 2006 - Tom Outman
Donna: GM Hug. Wow, squal last night & gale in morning. 30 kn winds. Just flying jib now. But sunny. 6.5kn and aiming 170 to miss rock. Where is high now? XD "

Tom: With no position given I am unable to calculate distance covered, etc. I advised her that there were 2 highs at 28S35W & 35S20W and that WSW winds were at 30S10W...BTW I left Donna's sat phone number on myold computer and have asked Neil resend it, I'll answer her other questions when I receive it...tom

January 11, 2006

Msg from Intrepid received at 1/11 0840 EST: Hug, bad squal night & morn. Wind howeling but good progress 1551s 2910W 25+ winds 5+kts COG 175. All safe. I estimate Donna has made 122nm on COG 175 at approx 5.1kts...tom

January 10, 2006 - Stu Kahn
Good Morning Hugs 120 miles 13.49S 29.15W. sun 20 knot wind making 5 knots at 180 course over ground. Spirit filling up. Right leg injured-hamstring ligament. Slow to heal. I slip easy. I am breathing and stretching. Did Tom tell story of climbing mast for web? It is hard not to be able to share experiences. I am so full of learning. I write and can't wait to have long chats. I called Chris Parker. Weather routing. A lot of no wind ahead. To avoid going 1200 miles out of the way west, he gave me a route with two plus calmed days but good wind before and after. Miss you all xxxoo D

January 9, 2006- Tom Outman
Numerous messages from Donna on 1/9 in response to my advising her to avoid an area of very confused & variable winds in the 2-8kts range. I was trying to steer her to the west of the area 28S-35S 20W-15W: "What about at 40S Tom that is huge detour. What is 28S-35S 20W-15W ? I have current in my favor & wind dir. I will still make 3kts. only 1200MI to 30S20W. Like? 40W too out of the way. It will be ugly 40W to 15E. I can’t bear the setback. I will barely touch the area you outline. At 0719 I was 1145S x 2918W 120nm day! XO D"

Later msgs: "Where the current go S-SE? My pilot chart says S 15S SE 20S please, always HUG. What are winds for my present course? Waypoint 20S25W to 30s20W? can u c? Pass on to web. Thanks" I have tried to assemble the msgs in a logocal fashon, some were duplicates. Anyway I calculate she made 109nm on COG 173*T for an average of 4.5kts.

At 30S20W she will be above the high pressure areas which move counterclockwise in the southern hemisphers and she will be facing east winds when she is trying to go east. I think she needs to go below 40S to pick up trade winds. if she is unable to do this, (cold, wet, temperatures for instance) I think she'll experience bad winds. All the winds from 20S25W to 30s20W are out of the E/SE...tom

Here are 2 msgs I have sent to Donna today:
Current@15S30W SE/E,wind E/ESE12/20, 30S30W same,winds E/SE 2/7!High 1/9 31S28W need to go 30S36W wind N 10 kts that days away and will change Need sty West. .

Winds @20S25W E/ESE 15/20kts,winds 30S20W S/SSE/SW 1/15 kts. Need to go far S to catch W winds. 1 Volvo Race course WP 04S33W.Indian Ocean now @52s (too cold for me!).

January 8, 2006 - Tom Outman
Txt msg from Donna: "Hi! 09*57'S x 29*31'W, wind ESE 15/20 kts, speed 4+kts on course 170*T. Enjoy! Rough so I am studying & writing lots. What longitude were temperatures 40*S-43*S? S=

January 7, 2006 - Stewart Kahn
Good Progress. 08.18 S 29.37 W 180 COG. Due South. Naked. Enjoying the gift to be here. Studying hard and writing. HUGS!

January 6, 2006 - Tom Outman

I figured she made 96 nautical miles yesterday at 194*T for an average speed of 4 knots. With the course she is on, she will easily clear the coast of Brazil. In fact, she might pass close to the island of Trinidad. A quick check of bouyweather.com show sustained winds under 20 knots, still ESE between 112-127 degrees today shifting to more from 104-125 degrees by tomorrow. By latitude of 10*S they should be more easterly coming from about 100*T. She should be there in two days. -Tom

January 5, 2006 - Stewart Kahn

I sent Donna text message yesterday with the following questions:

Did you ever fix the engine charging
What's new with songs and birds
Can you fish?

Donna responded:

I had to climb the mast for the jib halyard. Scary. Miracle story. But I am safe.
I still have a boobie bird with me.
I have 5 new songs coming
My mom is getting married, I will write for her.
I have a movie angle on my story
I fish, no catch! Only flying fish
Engine alternator down. Fletcher is finding out if changing the regulator will fix. Puts out 12V
I can use engine and wind generator for all power.

January 4, 2006 - Tom Outman

Morning message from Donna on 1/3 at 0815 EST. Good Morning! Rough this morning. 04*00 S x 28*48 W, Average 4 knots, COG 195-200*T, 20 knot wind.

Great. Poundin away. Good progress I think. "Hugs" She made 95 nautical miles with COG 202*T, averaging about 4 knots.

January 3, 2006 - Tom Outman

I had a phone call from Donna this morning at 0830 EST. The winds are variable. There was a squall last night with 6' swells. She has been doing her exercises lately and getting in better shape for the southern ocean. Last night she lost a shackle on the head sail when she was trying to change sails and was forced to go aloft to repair the damage and rig a downhaul. I am a little confused about what actually happened as she was talking fast trying not to use her minutes. After getting her courage up to climb the mast, apparently Inspired Insanity helped by healing over enough that in doing the repairs, she was actually able to lay on the mast while she was shimming up it.

She has been reading a lot about Ellen and others who have made this trip and better realizes that they basically followed the same path she is on now and the important thing at this point is to head south and east as much as the winds will allow and wait for the opportunity to get in front of a western wind from a properly positioned low (below her) or high (above her) and shoot over at probably 35S or lower. It was a good call!!. She is exhausted but game to continue on an is in what sounded like a good state of mind. -tom

January 1, 2006 - Will Barbeau

For news release: January 2, 2006
DONNA LANGE CROSSES EQUATOR ON NEW YEAR’S EVE
One-stop circumnavigator sails 20% of her route to New Zealand
Hundreds follow adventure via web site

Soon after Donna Lange crossed the Equator between Africa and South America on New Year’s Day in her 28-foot sail boat Inspired Insanity she sent an exuberant message to her main phone contact, Tom Outman: “Tom, I just crossed the equator!! 22:45 EST!! Happy New Year!! Much love and thanks to all! Huge hugs!! Donna Marie.”

Donna Lange’s shore team calculates that she has covered 20% of her route to New Zealand – the one stop she will make on her solo circumnavigation of the planet. It was her 53^rd day at sea, having left Portsmouth, R.I. November 11.

Friends and family receiving regular satellite phone calls from the intrepid mariner report her spirits are high -- despite constant demands of navigation, sail changes and boat maintenance. She is also finding time to read, write music and play her Irish tin whistle for a few birds following her.

Donna Lange’s main concern now is time. She is two weeks behind schedule because of delays caused by dodging hurricane Epsilon in November. She’s now receiving route guidance from sailing experts trying to help her regain the lost time. Her planned sailing schedule to New Zealand is five months and her boat is stocked with canned provisions for that period. In good sailing conditions “Inspired Insanity” covers an average of 100 miles per day.

December 31, 2005 - Tom Outman
I had a call from Donna while I was riding my bicycle out to Mom's at about 1130 EST and I'm trying to recall as much as possible. The good news is that the sun is shining, contrary to buoyweather.com, and the boat is sailing well. Unfortunately, she is steering about 230*T and is concerned that she didn't go further east earlier. She remarked that it was hard to know what to do and she wasn't going to dwell on it very long but would get on with what she had. Her spirits were up but she was a little discouraged. Unfortunately, again, what she has is an electrical problem with either the alternator or the regulator and she isn't getting a charge out of the system. She has a spare regulator but was discouraged about getting a spare alternator before she left., so she will swap out the regulator and see what happens. She's not real sure how to do all this and if anyone can help her now's the time. She is also taking on a little water, nothing serious at this point, but she's been unable to locate the exact spot, presumably from the rudder post(?) and she is confident about fixing that. She is sailing with the current toward Brazil and is concerned about getting too close and getting caught up in the full current as she heads further west. I just confirmed that Cubedelo is about 600nm ona bearing of 230*T, not real close but closer than she wanted, I'm sure. She is considering tacking and heading more NE but she'll be fighting the current that way which will further reduce her speed. I relayed the information I had previously sent her about an hour before she called but either she hadn't received my message yet or just hadn't read it. Does anyone know haw long it takes to be relayed, I guess I assumed it was instantaneous. Another day in the adventure.. .tom

December 30, 2005 - Stewart Kahn
Spoke with Donna today and following is from my notes: Two little birds showed up today. She has had squall after squall but the last ones did not have too much wind. She has been experiencing southeasterlies pushing her West. Constant sail changes with shifting winds. Not too much rest. The boat is holding up fine, but many little things are breaking every day. For instance she had to cut and splice the furling lines. Nonetheless, she is in good spirits and chalks this all up to what happens when you are sailing. Something is chafing up on the mast and when the weather calms down she will go up there and look. She is at full capacity for water and is drinking more now than normal as she is out of water storage space. The wind generator is working like a charm. She expects to cross the equator by the morning of the first and she figures the weather will change once she is in the South. By her estimate she is more than 20% there to NZ. Position is 01.57N 26.06W. SE wind about 10 knots with seas 1 to 2 meters. Averaging 200 degrees and 3 to 4 knots.

December 29, 2005 - Ptarmi
I got this text update this morning. 0249N 2545W 8th rain squall wind to 30KN working hard to keep coarse 180. Merry Christmas ans a Happy New Year. Ptarmi

December 28, 2008 - Stu Kahn
Text message from Donna included referrence to 4 Petrels came to visit..all her kids at once. she plays the tin whistle for them, thinks of them as friends and family coming to visit and calls the first one "my sweet birdy" also a nickname for Ptarmi.

December 28, 2005 - Tom Outman
12/28 0800 EST: “HI. WHAT IS BUOY LOC? 04*45’N X 25*44’W. WIND ENE 10 KNOTS. COG 180 5KTS. DRYING OUT. REBUILT MAST WINCH. SPLICE OUT CHAF ON LINES. WEAR & TEAR. ENJOYING SUN.”. Probably due to repairs she only made 70.25nm yesterday on course 175*T. Average speed 3nm. Glad she has some sun to dry out with.Not quite sure what “What is buoy loc?”. Will enquire...tom

December 27, 2005 - Tom Outman
0840 EST: “05*55’N x 25*50’W Wind ENE 10kts; S/SE in squalls. Catching water, lots of TS & rain. Hugh squals day & night. No rest. Slowing Progress. Course 180 COG.” In spite of which Donna has covered 203nm in the past 48 hours, on a course of 190*T over the ground for an average speed of 4.2 knts. Weather is as predicted and relayed to Donna, thunderstorm activity expected to slow by this evening we hope...tom

December 25, 2005 - Margaret Weinland
I had a wonderful voice mail from Donna this afternoon - so sorry I missed the "live" Donna via sat phone from "the middle of the ocean". She said it was an absolutely brilliant, gorgeous night, and that she had had a lovely Christmas day. She said there was rain in the morning - she collected several gallons of fresh water for her tea & coffee- and then beautiful sunshine. She spent the day reading, knitting, stitching her jib, and communing with "one beautiful little bird" who spent the day visiting with her, and fishing from the boat!

December 25, 2005 -Tom Outman
Very brief Merry Christmas telephone call from Donna at 0730 EST; She's at 09*15*N 25*31'W winds still from NE under 10 knots doing about 5 knots still going to 26*W or thereabouts. Spirits were high and she's doing well. Yesterday she made 125.4nm on course 175*T averaging about 5.2 knots..tom.

December 23, 2005
8:40 AM ET Beautiful Morn. 13.22N X 25.21W. Wind East 10 Knots. Doing 5 Knots at 180. Thick hazy. Donna reported that she nearly lost her whisker pole. A tool that she would dearly miss and a loss would seriously effect her overall progress. It was flipped off the boat and barely snagged by a trailing line. Donna had to climb over the side to retrieve it and noted the challenge was risky. But all is well and she is feeling thanks and gratitude for being allowed to carry on. She said that these challenges really make her realize how important every entity of her boat really is. So today is a day of celebration.

December 22, 2005 - Tom Outman
0715 EST. "Hi! 15*35'N x 25*36'W, wind ENE 10kts. Speed 8/9 kts course 160*T. Going to check in less....2-3 days can't worry if no word. Phone is electric. Wastemin. All well with my soul. Send on to Neil."

December 21, 2005 - Tom Outman
17*22’N x 26*15’W, winds ENE 10kts. Speed 5-6 kts. COG 160*T." During the last 24 hour period she covered 108.5nm at an average speed of 4.5 kts and averaged a course of 160*T...not bad for light winds...tom

December 20, 2005 - Will Barbeau

Donna's location is 19* 04N 26* 54 W (Tuesday 12/20; 9:45am). Gentle winds are out of the northeast, and she is moving slowly. She remarked that she was struck by the coincidence that it was exactly two years ago that she was in virtually the same spot when she met the boat with whom she had her Christmas dinner (described in her web site) -- and had almost the same weather conditions today: virtually becalmed. We had a giggle when she remarked that she's looking for another boat from whom she might get another Christmas Dinner. She said that she had about 350 minutes left on her phone, so. with so much more of the journey ahead, she saw less need to be communicating. She did express surprise at how rough the first month out had been, and how much it had knocked the boat about. She gave details of her repair work. She is working on her book, and we laughed over her proposed title: "Plenty of Time to Think" She sent Christmas greeting to everyone. Donna sounded energetic and upbeat.

December 18, 2005 - Outman
Text msg: 21*06'N x 27*16'W Speed 3-4 kts course 165, winds SW-W 5-10 kts. overcast, rain, warm, Peaceful, waypoint @ 5Nxt 25W, SE wind will take me SW to cross equator 27w.

December 16, 2005 - Outman

Morn dawn & dolphins! Music on whistle. 2 new songs. 24*08'N x 29*40'W course 150*T, speed 4 kts wind SSW 5+ kts. Low North, just rain. Squals.

December 15, 2005 - VanGundy
Winds now WNW at 0-5. Moving 4 kts at 155 SE at times. Did maintenance all morning. Caulked everywhere. Engine is in good shape. Wild sunburn. Sorry you guys are cold.

Decmeber 14, 2005 - VanGundy

Winds now SE 0-5 kts. So little progress but I went swimming and had my first bath in a month and 3-days. No wind, warm sun and NAKED!!!

December 14, 2005 - Tom Outman
Text msg from our sailing lady; 24*51'n x 30*11'w, speed 2 kts sailing 210* with wind from the SE Warm! Squals still around but all's good. Text msg sent by me (0500 EST) that rain should end by friday afternoon and thunder storm possibility through today and mid day tomorrow. Sat picture looks clear for her location. Temp will increase as she heads south, 72*F today up to 75 and clear by Saturday...tom

December 13, 2005 - Outman, Kahn
2550N x 30W Rain and squals all night long. At full reef now. 25 knot winds ENE. Squall approaching. Trying to rest and create my own reality.

December 12, 2005 - Ptarmigan
27 06N, 30 37W, SSW winds, about 15-20 knots 10 foot seas. Very tired from rough weather. Discussed the possibility of text messaging to Donna's cell phone. Looks like this will be possible. Costs are being explored and circulation of the address must be restricted to keep costs down.
December 11, 2005 - Tom Outman
I was glad to hear, however briefly, from Donna who reported being at 28*22'n x 31*34'w this morning at 1100 EST. Winds are still Gale force out of the NW and she has been driven on a course of 140*. The storm is tracking east and she has been trying to get south when wind and breaking seas allow. She feels that might be easier to do soon in which case she will seperate herself from these winds. The sky is overcast and rain is coming, again. The buoyweather.com forecast for her area is pretty spot on and the wind is expected to drop to a more manageable 19-26 kts from the WNW by 9pm her time (GMT-3) today. (Thank you God!) Wind should drop to 12/17 kts by 1500 tomorrow and, unfortunately, shift to the SW and then back to the S and ESE tuesday. This will also bring an increase in temperature from a present 67*F up to 72 by tuesday. Winds through next sunday should be moderate even though they will be from the ESE backing to E. That's not bad because she needs to steer a course of 185*M to get south of the Cape Verdi Islands waypoint (14*N x 27.3*W). Rain is forecasted for much of the time next week and thunder storms range from Probably through thursday dropping to Unlikely by thursday.
PS; wind speeds are sustained winds and might contain gust of up to 1.5 kts more.

December 10, 2005 - Tom Outman
Brief call with Donna as 1210 EST. Her position was 29*46'w x 32*48'w, south of my forcasted position for her. Fortunately, I was looking at the buoyweather charts on line and unfortunately, I was able to tell that she was in the middle of the cold front smashing through her. Reported winds out of the NNW in excess of 40 kts with breaking seas. The front is forecasted to head SE today and turn north tomorrow before moving off to the NE. Unfortunately S-SE winds are expected by tuesday depending on her location. She has been attempting to steer 140* and will consider a course to the southwest in an attempt to avoid the ravages of this front.

She scheduled a brief call for agin tomorrow. Donna says the boat's relatively dry and in good shape although the contents aren't necessarly so. Donna's spitits are still up and I think she's prepared herself for the ordeal she's facing knowing there is an end in sight...tom

December 9, 2005 - Linda Lange
Donna called this a.m. and is being knocked around again. 31-04 North by 34 01 West. 4-1/2 Knots South with 25-30 winds. Seas 15 ft and choppy. At this point I believe she could use a "HUG"-and good day again. I've believe she has 400 minutes left-I talked to Luther Waller who set
up the phone and he had bought1000 minutes.

December 8, 2005 - Tom Outman
I was very glad to hear from Donna at 0730 EST 8 Dec she's at 31*46'N x 35*58'W, with SSE winds of 10/15 knots, steering about 100*. It's sunny but cold, about 65*F, she was in good spirits and plans to continue on this course until the wind shifts back to the north which should happen Friday afternoon. She will then steer to avoid the gale and then southeast toward the Cape Verdi Islands...will plot a new projection based upon her current location and course...tom

December 8, 2005 - Linda Lange
Just talked to Donna. She is dryng out. It's a beautiful day. The sun warm. This is a good Day.
Praise God.... Linda.

December 6, 2005 - Stu Kahn
Donna called in at 11:30 Eastern location 33.37 N X 37.59 W been making 5 to 6 knots hasn't changed sail in 3 days on a course of 110 Degrees winds out of the northwest at 25 to 35 knots with 12 to 20 foot seas it is finally sunny after three days of rain and squalls she has been reading, writing and settling in she sounds great and is enjoying the time now that her first month is over.

December 5, 2005 (08:22 ET) - Linda Lange
Donna called 8:22 am, this mornng. All is well now. She had a wild time playing tag with Ephson. However, boat is doing great and she is moving right along, 5-6 knots. Due East now and wants to do 30-N and 30 west before she turns South. She is very pleased with the boat and needs some rest . She sounded so excited. I was so happy to hear her voice. That a Mom thing you know.... - Linda

December 4, 2005, 0800 ET - Kristy Brill
Wind NW ~25 knots; w/10-15 ft seas; course 110 averaging 5 knots speed. She ran with the hurricane out of the NW and was happy to report that she has finally achieved 100miles/day. She says she is going with the flow and the flow is going her way!!! She is wet/soaked but recovering well!!!

December 4, 2005 - Jack Seitner AA3GZ
If anyone can find bad weather it appears to be Donna. I am Jack, AA3GZ; about two years ago Gerard, ON6BG, helped Donna find shelter in Mindelo, Cape Verde. I see from your page that you know about Epsilon, which turned West toware Donna. The latest forecast shows it going East now at about 15 Kt; it may even go to the Caribbean. Epsilon appears to be unpredictable; I suggest that you check with the National Hurrican Center every few hours at http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/ . None of the sailing vessels we are monitoring on the Transatlantic and Italian Meritime Nets are near Epsilon. If there is any way we can help Donna, please advise.

December 4, 2005 - Tom Outman
Another brief talk with Donna, she's at 35*14'N x 43*04'W heading on a course of 110*, again trying to make eastings before turning south. Winds are out of the NW at 20/25 knots. She fixed the shroud problem and is enjoying the relative calm...tom

December 3, 2005 - Tom Outman
In a very garbeled transmssion at 0900EST Donna reported her position as being 36*N x43*52'W, about 60nm east of yesterdayt. Her current course is about 170*, heading almost due south. Unfortunately, Epsilon latest projection at 03/1800Z (she's in UDT time zone -3) is 35N x 44W. NWS reports that winds of 50 kts extend out for only 50nm from the center of Epsilon. Donna's course is being determined by a busted lower shroud which will not allow her to sail on a starboard tack. She's exhausted and will attempt a repair to the shroud in about an hour after getting some food and trying to rest. She's been having trouble with the new weather steering vane, has several days ago made repairs to her ripped jib and the conversation ended shortly after a large wave flooded the cockpit. The good news is that Epsilon seems to be putting on speed, passing from the above position to 35.7N to 38.8W by 04/1800Z and going extratropical by 05/0600Z. I think the Atlantic is finally as worn out as Donna because the 48-hr and 96-hr forecast are encourgaging. In fact the High Sea Forecast at 03/1030Z doesn't even mention Epsioln...but she's starting to get out of there reporting range... Prayers are encourged...tom

December 2, 2005- Tom Outman
Had a very brief conversation with Donna at 0730 EST. She reported her position as being 36*N x 44*49'W, both further north and east of where I had anticipated her to be. Winds were from the ESE and she was continueing on a course of 045* at a speed of 4 knots. I gave her the latest estimates for Epsilon for the next few days and she was encouraged by the prospect of a wind shift now forecasted to be by the afternoon of the 3rd, depending upon her proximity to Epsilon. The wind shifts have been coming sooner with each NWS/NHC report as Epsilon is forecasted to move more northward and not east as fast as previously forecast...we didn't set a time or the next contact...tom

December 1, 2005, 0733 ET - Kristy Brill
Going NE due to currents. She spent a miserable 5 days of squals, and had to climb the mast to repair a head light. She plans to turn South to avoid the hurricane!!!! Her spirits sounded high, although she was quite tired!!!

December 1, 2005 - Tom Outman
Donna cheerful voice came over the air this morning in a brief call at about 0730 EST. The sun is shining and all is well. her position is 35*04'N x 46*25'W with a SSE wind. Her intent is to maintain as much eastings as possible with the current wind and hope to drop south at the first opportunity. She will call tomorrow for a more detailed weather discussion after giving me her position. TS Epsilon is approx 445nm on a bearing of 220* from that position so she is out of immediate danger...it was good to hear her voice...tom

November 30, 2005 - Tom Outman
Donna reported being at 1400 EST on 11/29 was at 33*41'N x 48*09'W on a course of 045* with 30+ knot winds out of the ESE and seas out of the NW. Unfortunately, Tropical Storm Epsilon was at about 31*36'N x 50*20'W or about 167nm with a bearing of 222*. She's going to try to head south if wind and weather permit although she's still determined to make more eastings. She's had a bad start to her trip and desperately needs a few calm days to regroup and get things dried out. The good news is that the bildge pumps are working and she's able to get rain water out of the boat...tom

November 27, 2005 - Tom Outman
At noon on the 27th she's at 35*12'N x 50*26'W after sailing 77nm since her last reported position partially to avoid a gale to the SE of her. Sea's have been rough and confused but she hopes to be settling in now. She will try to make as much easterlies as possible trying to get over to 40*W longitude before turning SE. She has covered 1,130nm since leaving Bristol, RI....tom

November 25, 2005 - Tom Outman
Donna called for a weather update on 11/25, 1300 AST. She is at 34*32'Nx51*47'W with light winds out of the north. She's trying to maintain a 090* heading. Her spirits were good and she's enjoying a spell of sunshine today, taking a well earned rest. Tropical Storm Delta is well to the southeast of her and is expected to move northeast until monday when it will turn east. Should be no problem....tom

November 24, 2005 - Neil Perks
She's 13,525 nm from New Zealand. Because "Inspired Insanity" is not able to point in to wx very well she is having to head more east bound in order to pick up the trades to head south. The calm conditions are giving her lots of time to rest and work on her vessel. All is well and she said "I feel sorry for the rest of the world... I'm really happy out here and enjoying it".

November 19, 2005 - Pat Henry, Solo World Sailer and Author of "By the Grace of the Sea"
Donna is already achieving her goal: igniting dreams in other women and the knowledge that they can achieve them. Thinking of her alone on the sea makes me wish I were out there again, too. With her courage, commitment and passion she will make her mark in sailing history, and her message of encouragement will reach past borders around the world.

November 18, 2005 - Sebastien

Hello Donna. I'm the Frenchman that you encountered in the middle of the Atlantic Oceon on Christmas of 2003. What a small world. I loaned you the phone you used to call your daughter. I'm sending pictures to show and prove that it was real, FANTASTIC.. MAGIC.. I would love to meet you again Donna, maybe one day in the middle of nowhere again. I plan to sail around the world too. I cross fingers. Good luck Donna.

Note: See the "Donna's Story" page of this website for this incredible Christmas story.
Click to ENLARGE images below!

2550N x 30W Rain and squals all night long. At full reef now. 25 knot winds ENE. Squall approaching. Trying to rest and create my own reality. 27 06N, 30 37W, SSW winds, about 15-20 knots 10 foot seas. Very tired from rough weather. Discussed the possibility of text messaging to Donna's cell phone. Looks like this will be possible. Costs are being explored and circulation of the address must be restricted to keep costs down.

I was glad to hear, however briefly, from Donna who reported being at 28*22'n x 31*34'w this morning at 1100 EST. Winds are still Gale force out of the NW and she has been driven on a course of 140*. The storm is tracking east and she has been trying to get south when wind and breaking seas allow. She feels that might be easier to do soon in which case she will seperate herself from these winds. The sky is overcast and rain is coming, again. The buoyweather.com forecast for her area is pretty spot on and the wind is expected to drop to a more manageable 19-26 kts from the WNW by 9pm her time (GMT-3) today. (Thank you God!) Wind should drop to 12/17 kts by 1500 tomorrow and, unfortunately, shift to the SW and then back to the S and ESE tuesday. This will also bring an increase in temperature from a present 67*F up to 72 by tuesday. Winds through next sunday should be moderate even though they will be from the ESE backing to E. That's not bad because she needs to steer a course of 185*M to get south of the Cape Verdi Islands waypoint (14*N x 27.3*W). Rain is forecasted for much of the time next week and thunder storms range from Probably through thursday dropping to Unlikely by thursday. PS; wind speeds are sustained winds and might contain gust of up to 1.5 kts more.Brief call with Donna as 1210 EST. Her position was 29*46'w x 32*48'w, south of my forcasted position for her. Fortunately, I was looking at the buoyweather charts on line and unfortunately, I was able to tell that she was in the middle of the cold front smashing through her. Reported winds out of the NNW in excess of 40 kts with breaking seas. The front is forecasted to head SE today and turn north tomorrow before moving off to the NE. Unfortunately S-SE winds are expected by tuesday depending on her location. She has been attempting to steer 140* and will consider a course to the southwest in an attempt to avoid the ravages of this front.

Just talked to Donna. She is dryng out. It's a beautiful day. The sun warm. This is a good Day.Praise God.... Linda.Donna called in at 11:30 Eastern location 33.37 N X 37.59 W been making 5 to 6 knots hasn't changed sail in 3 days on a course of 110 Degrees winds out of the northwest at 25 to 35 knots with 12 to 20 foot seas it is finally sunny after three days of rain and squalls she has been reading, writing and settling in she sounds great and is enjoying the time now that her first month is over.Donna called 8:22 am, this mornng. All is well now. She had a wild time playing tag with Ephson. However, boat is doing great and she is moving right along, 5-6 knots. Due East now and wants to do 30-N and 30 west before she turns South. She is very pleased with the boat and needs some rest . She sounded so excited. I was so happy to hear her voice. That a Mom thing you know.... - LindaWind NW ~25 knots; w/10-15 ft seas; course 110 averaging 5 knots speed. She ran with the hurricane out of the NW and was happy to report that she has finally achieved 100miles/day. She says she is going with the flow and the flow is going her way!!! She is wet/soaked but recovering well!!!

November 15, 2005 - 1139 ET - Donna Lange
I am around 400 miles off the RI coast just beginning my solo of the world heading east of Bermuda. This is the point in the trip where I interact with the Gulf Stream. The weather is very unpredictable, even on a good day. The Gulf Stream currents present many wild high wind squalls, waterspouts or no wind challenges.

Today in the stream, the winds are 10 –15 knots with squally rain clouds scattered. I have tried several points of sail and can find the point where my course over ground goes from 150 degrees to 210. But I can't find a point to improve my speed. I've chosen to point a bit south to get across the stream more directly. The scattered squall lines make this a point where I find it is worth the effort to make sail changes often and early to avoid the sudden unseen wind shifts and gusts out there.

At 2100 last night, the sun had set, moon blazing. The cloud cover thickened and the winds started to settle. By midnight, my urge to keep my speed up won over my desire to stay warm and resting down below. The deck fully lit by the moon and clipped on a tether, I grabbed out my genny from the forward hatch. I let down the old #1 and she paid out on the deck nice enough, but getting her furled tight enough to get into the new sail bag was a trick. The genny went up without a hitch. It isn't my norm to fly the genny at night but the winds were steadily waning with a high ceiling of stratus clouds. The current of the stream was drastically affecting my speed, only 1.5 to 2.5 knots over ground while easily 3 - 4 knots over water. The genny gave me some stability, but I had to be on my toes to reef. With each situation that arose, I was on deck reefing main and jib, but overall, the genny kept the night moving.

November 1, 2005 - Donna Lange
We splashed Inspired Insanity on Friday. It's good to see her in the water again. It took some bleeding of the fuel system, but she roared away while presenting a couple of minor problems. The oil pressure light is staying on as a result of a bad transducer. This is causing periodic shutdowns. Also, the fuel injectors are leaking do to incorrect rings specified by the parts book. Between the new sending unit and the proper rings for the fuel return, the engine will continue to clatter away as all good diesel engines should. We still have a tremendous amount of work, but it is coming down to the wire. I hope to leave next Saturday.

My final jam session was awesome last night. The musicianship was phenomenal. Everyone signed my sail. It's so cool to be able to read along the way.

July 29, 2005 - Donna Lange
Arrived in Newport, Rhode Island yesterday. Had a great trip. Trying though because my boat is really falling apart. Had her hauled today and have been getting everything off her. Good friends here are lending good hands making the work light. Wrote some new music out there. The cause, passionately trying to get out ideas. But will it help? I believe I was born to help. I hope it does but i can't make anything happen. just live my life as it comes. Really had some unbelieveable moments of Nirvana on this trip. I'm growing and loving coming to a new place in myself. Real peace. A new perspective in my body and soul, not just my mind. I am feeling it. Oh how the boat flys through the water. I am so in love with solo sailing. I've got to get the systems working and learn to maintain them so they stay working.

July 15, 2005 - Donna Lange
I have just set the time frame to head off again on the first leg of a very challenging itinerary. My goal is to sail solo around the world on Inspired Insanity, my Southern Cross 28-foot sloop. A real circumnavigation of the world!!

The first leg of this journey will be to New Zealand requiring four and a half months of sailing from Bristol, Rhode Island. I will go southeast heading toward Cape Verde island of Sao Vincent (off west coast of Africa) and continue South staying west until I am past the southern tip of Africa. I will then head east once I hit the Westerlies of the Southern Ocean, then on around the Cape of Good Hope. From there it is a clear sail to New Zealand (in a manner of speaking). I should see land near Ausi and Tasmania but I will be on to Auckland on the North Island of New Zealand. A rebuild will be needed I am sure.

I will enjoy New Zealand until the next summer comes around (winter 2006/07 in north hemisphere). Then I will be off. On past Australia well to my north and then around Cape Horn (Southern tip of South America). Another four and a half months for sure. I am going around the Horn west to east with the Southern Ocean current. Once past Cape Horn, I will swing a bit northeast then north, passing the Cape Verde's (Africa) again.

If you would like to become a Sponsor for Donna Lange, you can be placed in contact with Donna through
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