Epiphany: Hibernation or Migration ?

Our epiphany for 2014 was inspired by last winter’s experience of forcing ourselves to sail in the local conditions: we are migratory by nature, not hibernators. 

Two who missed the signal to head south in 2013...

Rather than hunkering down to brave the local elements, our instinct is to move to find those precious resources no longer available at home (warmth ! light !).  This year, while Spray is hibernating on her cradle in the boatyard, we will migrate…by land. 

In a few weeks, we will begin our journey south, first to the Pyrenees for some skiing and frolicking in the therapeutic geothermal springs there, and then on to Morocco for one month of exploring.  Like all wise migrating species, we’ve prepared for this voyage over the last month by packing on some extra body weight for the arduous trek ahead.

Cold is okay as long as there's sun !  (and hot springs...)

One part of our journey in Morocco will involve travelling by the ships-of-the-desert (camels) into the Sahara (warmth ! light !).  Friends who have done this report a feeling of awe at the immensity of the sky and the horizon that stretches out as far as the eye can see; a sensation you can only have in the desert or at sea.  Like most people, we’re drawn to majestic scenery (mountains, oceans, deserts) perhaps, ironically, because those grand spaces and their timelessness make us feel small and help us to put ourselves in perspective as small parts of a larger whole.

So strap on your virtual skis and keffiyehs (desert head scarves) and join us for a little alternative cruising while we wait for more hospitable sailing conditions.

* * *

We shall not cease from exploration
And the end of all our exploring
Will be to arrive where we started
And know the place for the first time.

-T.S. Eliot