Since our last post in May, we've taken Cheers out to the islands on four separate trips, we've worked in Southeast Alaska for 9 weeks (me) and 12 weeks (Mark), I spent 5 weeks working in the eastern Mediterranean and Mark came to join me near the end of that time so we could explore a little together. Whoa. Incredible experiences, but LOTS of time on airplanes and in airports.
Here's the brief synopsis, with some photo albums to do most of the talking.
It was pretty bloody hot here in La Paz this summer, so we got out to the islands whenever possible. We went out for a week in May, a week in mid-July and 2 weeks in late October / early November. We also went out for a week with our 13 year-old nephew, Collin, which was great. We explored a little at Isla Cerralvo, and spent a lot of time snorkeling, swimming and diving at Islas Espiritu Santo, San Francisco and San Jose. The water was so warm and clear! Completely different from what we're accustomed to when we're working here in the winter. We watched as many sunsets and moonrises as possible, and stargazed nearly every night. We even listened to election night coverage on our satellite radio while anchored at Isla San Francisco under a star-filled sky! Don't you know we feel incredibly lucky?!
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| Summer 2008, Cheers cruising and Collin's visit |
Our time in Alaska was also great. We had good weather in June and early July, with great wildlife sightings on every trip. Check out the photo album to see some of my highlights.
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| Alaska 2008 |
My time in the Mediterranean was, well, interesting. The places we went were amazing, and I loved being immersed in new cultures. You'll see from the photo album that I went a little nuts. Unfortunately, the ship that Lindblad had chartered was far from ideal, and I faced some of the biggest challenges of my Expedition Leader career. No stories here, but I'll tell you in person if you ask.
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| Mediterranean 2008 |
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| Mark & Michelle Mediterranean |
It's now mid-November, and Mark's just gone back to work on NG Sea Lion. He'll be in Alameda, California for the next month, or so, working the annual shipyard. In mid-December, he'll bring the ship down to La Paz, and we'll both work one trip, over New Year's. I'll try not to be such a lame-o, and post more often. At least a few photos now and then.
Take care & Happy Holidays!
Michelle
