Thursday, May 17, 2012
We circled the island of São Miguel all night and all
day. During the day, we gradually moved closer to about two miles off the coast
and were able to see the beautiful coastal houses, hillside farms, and volcanic
peaks. This was as close as we’d get. At 1800, a pilot boat pulled up. We
opened the cargo hatch and threw down a ladder. On came Captain Smith and three
cadets, and we said farewell to Captain Ahlstrom, Colonel Stroud, and Mate
Fiorenza. At 1830, we closed the hatch, turned southeast, and said goodbye to
the Azores.
On the mess deck I picked a seat that looks out at the
stern, already nostalgic about the land that was slowly receding into the
horizon. Then I noticed the ship made a slow 270 degree turn, and a flurry of
activities could be heard on the radio. At 1845, the Chief Mate came into the
Officers’ Mess and gave the order: “All hands, all hands, prepare for docking.”
We’re going to the Azores after all.
-Kimmy
5 comments:
High Five Kimmy! I bet you got butterflies in your belly when you heard the news. I know my son is thrilled. He had planned a list of Geocaching coordinates for the Island. Wishing you an enjoyable Liberty!
Please post photos of crew and destinations as you go. Thanks.
Totally enjoy reading your blogs and following the Empire along its course. STAYING THE COURSE drew a big laugh. Hope it was all worth it in the end. Thank you, enjoy the rest of the cruise, and keep your blogs coming.
Any more news?
Thank you for all of your fan mail! Kimmy is thrilled to hear of your comments. He will continue to post as he (and technologies) are available, but unfortunately the ship's server does not allow for large emails, attachments, or photos to be sent while aboard; any chance to send photos will sadly be happenstance as he may be able to find places to upload once he reaches shore. Keep a weather eye on these posts for updates as we receive them, and thank you for your patient support! ~SBLL
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