Page 138 - 2003 - Atlantic Islands

permit a late afternoon landing. From the parade of icebergs lining our way and

because of the choppiness of the seas, we did not really believe that it would happen

and it did not! However, we greatly enjoyed the passing parade of beautiful icebergs:

huge tabular bergs that must have broken off the Antarctic ice shelf and drifted

northward weeping their crystalline fresh water into the sea as they rode the ocean

currents. Smaller bergs appeared to have calved off the tidal glaciers on South

Georgia or perhaps the South Shetlands. But all were majestic in their silent beauty,

their marvelous colors, and fantastic shapes carved by winds and waves. They really

did appear to have been lined up like floats in a parade to honor King Neptune in the

Southern Ocean.

John talked to us about the Shackleton walk tomorrow and prepared us for an early

morning departure and a hike of about 3-4 hours. Kay and I cannot really remember

how long it took but we do remember that it was tough, both the climb and the

rugged descent. John talked plainly about it and was obviously trying to encourage

folks to think about it carefully in the hope that he would discourage folks who

should not attempt it. He stressed that there is no turning back once you have

committed to making the hike.

Now we are sitting around awaiting evening Recap and then, of course, another

dinner. Sent Sharon another e-mail this afternoon and appealed for some news of

Johnny’s progress since we are not hearing anything from Kathy since the day of

surgery. Perhaps she will answer us tonight and we will find another message on our

door when we get up in the morning.

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