Adventures from 17th Nov
Was up early on the 17th, was very excited for the long walk to
Stromness. The Traverse Team broke camp early and walked along the
shore while we made our way by zodiac. When we landed no one paid any
attention to the fur seals as we where all too busy changing into our
walking boots. We where spilt up into 3 groups and we made our way up
the mountain. I was passing out before we hit the snow but then we
where given some good advice to take small steps and to control our
breathing. After another break the Traverse Team joined us with a cheer
and they carried on head of us.
At a steady pace I finally got to the start of the snow. This was just
as hard to walk in it as the loose stones. Some of the snow came up to
just below my knees. I followed in the a footsteps of the person in
front singing I Love To Go A Wondering. At the Crean Lake we had another
break and then pressed on through the snow. Finally Stromness came into
view a great cheer arose and some of the guys sang An Puc Ar Bhuile and
then we tackled the steep snow covered slope down to the bog land. Half
way down we where allowed to slide down on our bums it was great fun.
Where was a strange feeling walking passed the old whaling station at
Stromness and it was also great to see the animals had taking the place
over, just like in Animal Farm.
I couldnt believe I managed such a long walk on loose stones, snow and
bog and when I got back on board I wanted to do it all over again.
