Yep, that’s right. A few days ago I realized that back in October when we were headed back from our ‘out west’ trip, we folded up the tent with the internal ground cloth still in place. We had gotten in the habit of doing this in order to save folding and a few hours later unfolding the tarp when we were once again setting up camp. Seemed like a good idea then, perhaps it was because we were breaking camp in the dark with a giant green blow-up Frankenstein staring at us, (Remember this was October folks.) and it was but now, 6 months later I realized that we never unfolded the tent to air it out and remove the ground cloth in order to roll the tent in to its proper stuff sack.
So, yesterday I set up the tent in our ‘tree room’ (due to the threat of rain) pulled the tarp out and had a few moments of trip recall – the mountains, the sky, the chilly nights, the wildlife, the lakes, the canyons (there were all grand), the birds, the trees, their magnificent colors especially towards the end, the endless road that took us and delivered us back home, and the people we met along the way, not to mention the buffalo.
So I pulled out our green ‘floor’. Took it out on the deck to shake out. Went back in and realized that the floor of the tent needed to be swept out. Hmmm…could I use the vacuum on it? Well, yes I could. It worked like a charm. All the tiny twigs, dust from other states and feathers from Jerry’s down sleeping bag disappeared up the black hose. But, and I’m happy to say, the floor of the tent and all the memories are still strong – of good times and delightful experiences.
I like it when spring cleaning = tent preparation.
Monday, April 2, 2012
Friday, January 13, 2012
Day 8 - Dec. 11
Up bright and early. First order of business, pack up the luggage (aka carry-ons) and put them outside the door for the crew to gather. Next time we see them would be at the hotel in Guayaquil. One last breakfast and one last zodiac ride this time to San Cristobal. One last bus ride to the airport. Then on to Guayaguil for one last night in the Hilton.
We were about to begin the final leg of the journey, a 24 hour journey back to KY. Armed with our luggage and the travel mantra Clair had us versed in – ‘Wallet. Passport. Wallet. Passport....”
We arrived at the airport in plenty of time. There ended up being a 3 hour delay due to ‘mechanical difficulties’. Guess there is a reason they never explain that term. We did receive vouchers for a free lunch. Of course the 3 hour delay in Quayaguil shortened our layover at JFK to 9 hours. There is absolutely no place to sit comfortably at JFK much less think about sleeping. The terminal we needed didn’t even open until 3:45 a.m. I fell asleep for a few minutes with my head resting on my arms at a sushi bar.
From Guayaguil, to NY, to NC to CVG. 23 ½ hours. It was good to be home. Thanks to Joan for picking us up at the airport. Thanks to Joanna for house and dog sitting. Thanks to all who made this trip possible.
We were about to begin the final leg of the journey, a 24 hour journey back to KY. Armed with our luggage and the travel mantra Clair had us versed in – ‘Wallet. Passport. Wallet. Passport....”
We arrived at the airport in plenty of time. There ended up being a 3 hour delay due to ‘mechanical difficulties’. Guess there is a reason they never explain that term. We did receive vouchers for a free lunch. Of course the 3 hour delay in Quayaguil shortened our layover at JFK to 9 hours. There is absolutely no place to sit comfortably at JFK much less think about sleeping. The terminal we needed didn’t even open until 3:45 a.m. I fell asleep for a few minutes with my head resting on my arms at a sushi bar.
From Guayaguil, to NY, to NC to CVG. 23 ½ hours. It was good to be home. Thanks to Joan for picking us up at the airport. Thanks to Joanna for house and dog sitting. Thanks to all who made this trip possible.
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Day 7 - Dec.10
Ho- Hum. Another day of hiking, snorkeling, zodiac riding, beach walking, eating, resting, enjoying the views, enjoying other peoples company, sharing ideas, and knowing that this is our last full day in the Galapagos Islands. What a trip! Have I said that before?
Things I may not have mentioned –
there was a doctor on board the ship
there was an exercise room , small but sufficient
there was a library
they sold crafts from the locals on board
walking sticks were provided – which was great since you can’t pack them in your carry-on
wet suits were also provided
the food was so plentiful, well presented and down right good – so many choices at all times
there were laundry services
beds were made up every day
fresh water delivered to the room 2x per day when needed
coffee, juices, soft drinks available at any time
the bar was fully stocked and Jimmy the bartender was always close by
the bridge had an open door policy which meant that you could go check out things there anytime
all the crew was super friendly and helpful
we were there in the dry season, the bugs were few, the rainfall none
So, if you ever get a chance to go…..
Things I may not have mentioned –
there was a doctor on board the ship
there was an exercise room , small but sufficient
there was a library
they sold crafts from the locals on board
walking sticks were provided – which was great since you can’t pack them in your carry-on
wet suits were also provided
the food was so plentiful, well presented and down right good – so many choices at all times
there were laundry services
beds were made up every day
fresh water delivered to the room 2x per day when needed
coffee, juices, soft drinks available at any time
the bar was fully stocked and Jimmy the bartender was always close by
the bridge had an open door policy which meant that you could go check out things there anytime
all the crew was super friendly and helpful
we were there in the dry season, the bugs were few, the rainfall none
So, if you ever get a chance to go…..
Monday, January 9, 2012
Day 6 - Dec. 9
Up before breakfast once again. Stretching on the Sky Deck once again.
After breakfast we headed for Santa Cruz Island home to the largest human population in the Galapagos. Also home to the Galapagos National Park Service and The Charles Darwin Research Station.
After a dry landing on the island we walked to the Research Center where we saw the many giant (and also baby giant) tortoises. There is one called ‘Lonesome George’ the only one left of his kind. When he is gone his race will vanish from the face of the earth. No other tortoises found match his DNA.
After seeing the research station we were able to walk through town – reminded me a little of El Salvador. We did a little shopping and also bought some postcards for the grandkids and my aunt. Last I heard, and this is over a month ago, Autumn was the only one who has received the postcard. All mailed same place, same time.
A little later we boarded a bus and traveled to a farm in the highland. On the way we stopped at an open air restaurant for lunch but before that we stopped and walked through a lava tunnel. As the name implies it was an underground tunnel formed from flowing lava. It was interesting and a lot like a rough version of many a cave we’ve been in.
The farm we visited was one located in the middle of the tortoise migratory route. There were giant tortoises everywhere. Just moseying around, sunning themselves, munching on leafy greens or enjoying a very muddy puddle. They did not seem to mind us humans being there although I never heard a tortoise growl before.
We returned to the ship before dinner. In the evening a group of local musicians joined us in the lounge. There were three women who performed some folk dances for us. Each dance had its own homemade, hand painted outfit. Very entertaining!
After breakfast we headed for Santa Cruz Island home to the largest human population in the Galapagos. Also home to the Galapagos National Park Service and The Charles Darwin Research Station.
After a dry landing on the island we walked to the Research Center where we saw the many giant (and also baby giant) tortoises. There is one called ‘Lonesome George’ the only one left of his kind. When he is gone his race will vanish from the face of the earth. No other tortoises found match his DNA.
After seeing the research station we were able to walk through town – reminded me a little of El Salvador. We did a little shopping and also bought some postcards for the grandkids and my aunt. Last I heard, and this is over a month ago, Autumn was the only one who has received the postcard. All mailed same place, same time.
A little later we boarded a bus and traveled to a farm in the highland. On the way we stopped at an open air restaurant for lunch but before that we stopped and walked through a lava tunnel. As the name implies it was an underground tunnel formed from flowing lava. It was interesting and a lot like a rough version of many a cave we’ve been in.
The farm we visited was one located in the middle of the tortoise migratory route. There were giant tortoises everywhere. Just moseying around, sunning themselves, munching on leafy greens or enjoying a very muddy puddle. They did not seem to mind us humans being there although I never heard a tortoise growl before.
We returned to the ship before dinner. In the evening a group of local musicians joined us in the lounge. There were three women who performed some folk dances for us. Each dance had its own homemade, hand painted outfit. Very entertaining!
Sunday, January 8, 2012
Day 5 - Dec. 8
Santiago Island.
This is where Darwin spent most of his ‘on land’ time. He spent a total of 6 weeks in Galapagos, which included only 19 days on land. Nine of which were spent on Santiago Island.
(The movie Master and Commander is the story which includes a little of Darwin’s adventures. We were able to watch the movie since we’ve been home. Filmed in the Galapagos we highly recommended it if you haven’t seen it.)
Another day spent on the water, in the water, under the water - kayaking, swimming, snorkeling. Along with some hiking. When we traveled by zodiac to an island we either had a wet or dry landing depending on the area we were approaching.
A dry landing meant that the zodiac was able to butt itself up against very well placed steps or rocks where we could step from the zodiac on to the inflated side of the boat and then on to dry land. A wet landing meant that the zodiac stopped as close to shore as it could but that we would have to swing our feet over the side of the zodiac and jump off into – hopefully no more that knee deep water. Sometimes this worked well – sometimes not so much. If we did a wet landing with the intent to hike we would have to take along dry shoes for the walk.
When we boarded the ship from the zodiac we had to step on to the inflated side of the zodiac and then on to a ladder to take us up to the ship’s deck. This was always a two handed accomplishment. Most of the time it worked very well.
This is where Darwin spent most of his ‘on land’ time. He spent a total of 6 weeks in Galapagos, which included only 19 days on land. Nine of which were spent on Santiago Island.
(The movie Master and Commander is the story which includes a little of Darwin’s adventures. We were able to watch the movie since we’ve been home. Filmed in the Galapagos we highly recommended it if you haven’t seen it.)
Another day spent on the water, in the water, under the water - kayaking, swimming, snorkeling. Along with some hiking. When we traveled by zodiac to an island we either had a wet or dry landing depending on the area we were approaching.
A dry landing meant that the zodiac was able to butt itself up against very well placed steps or rocks where we could step from the zodiac on to the inflated side of the boat and then on to dry land. A wet landing meant that the zodiac stopped as close to shore as it could but that we would have to swing our feet over the side of the zodiac and jump off into – hopefully no more that knee deep water. Sometimes this worked well – sometimes not so much. If we did a wet landing with the intent to hike we would have to take along dry shoes for the walk.
When we boarded the ship from the zodiac we had to step on to the inflated side of the zodiac and then on to a ladder to take us up to the ship’s deck. This was always a two handed accomplishment. Most of the time it worked very well.
Saturday, January 7, 2012
Day 4 - Dec. 7th
The day once again began with stretching on the upper deck. How wonderful!
Then there was breakfast. How wonderful!
Then hikes on the island of Isabela, the largest island in the Galapagos group, formed by the fusion of six enormous shield volcanoes. The island has a distinct seahorse shape to it.
Our schedule for the day had two lines printed in caps. THERE ARE INTRODRODUCED WASPS AT THIS SITE. IT IS BEST NOT TO WEAR YELLOW OR WHITE THIS MORNING. Somehow I missed those words of wisdom and wore a very white shirt. But thankfully there were no close encounters with the wasps. How wonderful!
Before lunch anyone who wanted to was invited to participate in a “Megaswim”. A swim from shore to the ship – a distance of about 2,000 ft. Of course Jerry and Clair participated and now have the certificate to prove it. How wonderful!
Jerry and I spent time in a kayak early afternoon. Clair hit the water in her snorkeling gear. How wonderful!
The rest of the day brought more hikes and zodiac rides. How wonderful!
And a restful night’s sleep. How wonderful!
Then there was breakfast. How wonderful!
Then hikes on the island of Isabela, the largest island in the Galapagos group, formed by the fusion of six enormous shield volcanoes. The island has a distinct seahorse shape to it.
Our schedule for the day had two lines printed in caps. THERE ARE INTRODRODUCED WASPS AT THIS SITE. IT IS BEST NOT TO WEAR YELLOW OR WHITE THIS MORNING. Somehow I missed those words of wisdom and wore a very white shirt. But thankfully there were no close encounters with the wasps. How wonderful!
Before lunch anyone who wanted to was invited to participate in a “Megaswim”. A swim from shore to the ship – a distance of about 2,000 ft. Of course Jerry and Clair participated and now have the certificate to prove it. How wonderful!
Jerry and I spent time in a kayak early afternoon. Clair hit the water in her snorkeling gear. How wonderful!
The rest of the day brought more hikes and zodiac rides. How wonderful!
And a restful night’s sleep. How wonderful!
Friday, January 6, 2012
Day 3 12/6
Feast of St. Nicholas
There was an early morning call for those interested in joining the naturalist on the upper deck to view what wildlife might be in the early morning waters. This was one of 2 days where whales were spotted. They were so far from the ship it was difficult to see them. The distance did not permit pursuit so we just used our imaginations. We did however see sea turtles, dolphins, sea lions, and a lonely albatross caused a lot of excitement.
Today was the first time that we crossed the Equator. Everyone was on deck for the countdown. One couple renewed their wedding vows – seems that they do that wherever, whenever they travel. Whatever floats your boat I guess.
Today there was deep water snorkeling. It just means that the water is entered and exited by way of a zodiac as opposed to a beach. Jerry and Clair hit the cold water without a second thought – no surprise there. I decided to stay warm and dry and decided on a zodiac ride instead.
There was a late afternoon walk on an island – again filled with wildlife.
Sleeping on the ship was wonderful. On the advice of many people I took some motion sickness medicine with me. Never once did I feel a need to use it. The rocking motion of the ship was like a giant cradle. There were times when the sea was rough and the rocking motion turned into more like heaving back and forth but it was unique and interesting to experience.
Oh, and St. Nick left chocolates on our pillow again.
There was an early morning call for those interested in joining the naturalist on the upper deck to view what wildlife might be in the early morning waters. This was one of 2 days where whales were spotted. They were so far from the ship it was difficult to see them. The distance did not permit pursuit so we just used our imaginations. We did however see sea turtles, dolphins, sea lions, and a lonely albatross caused a lot of excitement.
Today was the first time that we crossed the Equator. Everyone was on deck for the countdown. One couple renewed their wedding vows – seems that they do that wherever, whenever they travel. Whatever floats your boat I guess.
Today there was deep water snorkeling. It just means that the water is entered and exited by way of a zodiac as opposed to a beach. Jerry and Clair hit the cold water without a second thought – no surprise there. I decided to stay warm and dry and decided on a zodiac ride instead.
There was a late afternoon walk on an island – again filled with wildlife.
Sleeping on the ship was wonderful. On the advice of many people I took some motion sickness medicine with me. Never once did I feel a need to use it. The rocking motion of the ship was like a giant cradle. There were times when the sea was rough and the rocking motion turned into more like heaving back and forth but it was unique and interesting to experience.
Oh, and St. Nick left chocolates on our pillow again.
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