Saturday February 9, 2013

Saturday February 9/13  update #363

Well I finally got around to packing.  Bella, like usual, has been packed and ready for days.  We are going with one suitcase and one backpack only for the two of us. 

We are basically packing for comfort in the heat although the bug situation will dictate whether we can get away with shorts or not.   I have rolled up my cloth backpack for touring around the islands rather than use the heavy laptop backpack.   

I have checked the long-term forecast for the Galapagos and the temperature is to be around 84F in the day and 74F at night with the biggest chance for rain on Tuesday.   We are not accustomed to such sustained heat so I expect we will be quite uncomfortable most of the time.  Apparently our bedroom has air-conditioning so we should survive OK at night.

We have made our return to Joe’s to take their photographs after a 3-week absence.  I note they did not replace me while I was gone as they have not posted any photos in that period.   Tonight was the first night to use the new Canon T3i for the people photos.  I brought along the Sony HX1 to take the food photos since that saves me from forgetting to change settings, which I am apt to do several times a night.

It was very gratifying to see the reception I got from all the regulars at Joe’s tonight.  They said it wasn’t the same when I wasn’t there to take their pictures.  I am happy to report that the new camera performed very well.  It was also nice to meet another 4 new couples from Canada.

We are happy to see that competition has sprung up for GringoTree in the form of GringoPost.  I have groused about the outrageous ad costs now being charged by GringoTree just because they have created such a captive audience.  Thank you to the brave soul who has done this.

Some folks tonight who reside in tall buildings claim that they felt a 7.1 magnitude earthquake from Columbia at 9:20 this morning.  I am sure I was in bed at that time and never felt a thing.

That was today’s excitement.   Hugs to all.    Please see all photos at http://souvenircuenca.blogspot.com/