Maintencillo
Had a lie in today. Used blankets for the first time last night…the sea breeze seems to keep the temperatures down, blowing off the Humboldt current so they say. We went to visit the Cabana owner’s large New England style house this morning. We opened their front gate and wandered through the garden to their rather grand front door. We were half way down the path when the owner lady shouted for us to halt and go back. ‘The dogs will have you!’ she shouted ‘Go, Go!' We scuttled back to the gate and closed it behind us. She then opened the door and 3 large Weimeranas bounded out and leapt at the gate barking and wagging their tails! The only danger was being licked to death by the looks of them. It was then we saw the large sign next to the gate forbidding entrance and advising people to ring the large bell located just above. She had a strong German accent and I asked how long she had lived here. ‘All my life', she said ‘but my parents are from Liverpool!?' We spent the morning walking along the beach looking at pelicans, vultures, eagles, cormorants and various versions of our own wading birds but with different markings and accents. Collected shells and watched the huge surf…nobody swims here unfortunately as the currents are dangerous. We stopped at a very relaxed and friendly beach side Café for coffee and paninis. The owner was extremely friendly and used to ski competitively in Europe and America so his english was excellent. We went back to the Café in the evening and recorded a webcam message with views of the ocean behind….we didn't mean to gloat! Ate lots of vegetables today to make up for all the meals served without a hint of green. The cabana owner has just come round with a bottle of local red wine for John’s birthday on Monday! We will just have to drink it all now as it will be too heavy to carry tomorrow. Shame! Chilean people have been so hospitable and friendly so far.
A pelican!
John collecting!
Sending a Boxing Day message.
Enjoying the views
Last sunset.
