call us to the RIBS. And it is our first magical landing on the continent of
Antarctica. This is why we are here. It is calm, cold and snowing a light
powdery snow.and it feels like Christmas. I think of my dad today; and of my
loving family; and dear Jim, and Kieron who pushed me to make the decision
to come here; and I know that all are with me in this special place. I am
here, at last, I am here.
There are – hooray! – no fur seals. A couple of gentle Weddell seals and
Gentoos, but mostly .Adelies. They are unafraid, waddling up to look at us.
It is Eden.
In the afternoon, we visit Esperanza Base; an entire community of
Argentinian Army and Civilian personnel, and their families. They have not
seen a ship since April; we are kissed and hugged and welcomed warmly; and
we feel the welcome is extra warm because we are Irish, and a certain War is
not mentioned! There is fresh, fragrant coffee; pies, savories, wonderful
cakes; there is a tiny church; (Mass was due to be said at 12 noon, but they
have kindly postponed it until 6pm in honour of our visit) an infirmary; and
of course – a Post Office! We cannot help ourselves; we buy anything that is
on sale; stamps, t-shirts, badges, postcards.
There is much laughter and sign language, and “An Poc Ar Buile” is roared
out again .
God must surely hear prayers from a Polar Base station; it is the first time
in 40 trips that a landing has been possible. There is a football match, and
more kissing and hugging and kissing and “muchas gracias” before we leave.
