Sun catches gorge(ous) at Imbros.
There are an awful amount of goats on this island. However, to put things in perspective, there are, on another island in the Pacific, an enormous amount of sheep. The juxtaposition of these statements has no relevance other than to take some new vocabulary for a run, so to speak or write. The editor goes crazy when I do this type of thing. At the time, I enjoy it. Seeing it in print at a later stage gives me an understanding of the editor’s sentiments. The subject of goats, however, was not fortuitous. The other day, we saw a sight that was staggering, if not a little frightening.
On the way down one of the mountains, we came across a group of what looked like a frisky bunch. There were a few females grazing on the side—can’t remember seeing any kids though, probably watching T.V. Anyway, about five males stood around but they looked a little hyped. There was something different from their typical mannerism. I stopped to watch for a while. Two separated from the herd and then turned and charged, at each other. We’ve heard of butting heads or is it heading butts—we forget which way round. Wham! They collided. The noise was shocking, my knees went weak and I felt ill. I half-expected to see two stunned or maybe dead goats littering the ground, blood flowing profusely. Instead, they turned and repeated the exercise. I was equally appalled the second time, too. It was clearly a case of 'using their heads' inappropriately. I thought I was watching a political debate but realized it was more intelligent. Man, these Greek goats are fierce.
On our exit from the gorge, the sea is a welcome sight.
Looks like he wants to stay. Upset that the term 'gorgeous' was not used for him.
Heading down on Gingilos trail, surroundings are overpowering.
Contemplating heights, gravity and trees on Gingilos trail.
This is the highway from our hotel front door. Mr. Stavris is watching with his hands over his eyes. It would not
be surprising for another motorist to try and pass on either side plus at least one motor bike and I suppose two
pedestrians, a cat and of course, seven goats.
We had to leave the island reluctantly, especially the region at the coast. Those early evening sunsets on the patio were gorgeous. All good things must end but at least, there’s usually something better awaiting us up or across the road. Our ending was abrupt as we woke at 5am, dressed and drove the car nearly two hours to the airport to catch a plane for the mainland. We were expecting difficulties but were not disappointed to travel smoothly and arrive early, a car in good shape, the airline on schedule and ourselves preparing to face the concrete jungle albeit some very old concrete, not in Crete, but rather, Athens. A visit to the cradle of western civilization. It seemed exciting particularly as the trend of Westerners, in our opinion, is down. What could we expect? It’s been a while since we were in a big city besides San Diego? Truth be told, we were in for a surprise. We were also going to meet up with an old school friend of the editor’s with the original name of Jenny. The young women, or that’s what they were some 48 years ago when they separated, were at Northview High School. More about some incredible sights, experiences and eye-opening incidents next time…
One too many red-pen edits from the editor...time-out at the top.
The refuge at the top which we saw from Mount Gingilos, on the following hike.
Fancies himself as a 'trail runner': Must have seen the movie as he heads through the natural arch. (Trying to keep up with
Barry Jahn...too tough.)
'Artist's' brush paints colors and sea bed...extraordinary en route to Loutro.
The long and winding road for the cars that travel to the refuge.
A favorite: Love the expression as she comes up and through the arch on Gingilos.
Sometimes, the solution to a tough climb is obvious..."See you on the way 'back'".
I'm sure I heard the editor mumbling, "Dem stones, dem stones..." and then she just collapsed.
Cheers,
Jenni and Jeffrey
The Acropolis from below. It's not easy to attain views without crowds and cranes.
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