Scorching into Santarem!

29 Jan 7:56 am by Nathan Welch Category: The Expedition

We arrived in beautiful little Santarem just on 3 hours ago – 7.00am Brazilian time. We are happy with our progress after what began as a very challenging first 2 days after leaving Manaus. Let me explain…

We actually departed Manaus early evening on Friday the 18 Jan. We were very keen to get away earlier but it was not to be. There were a few delays in obtaining our maps from Captain Pires at the Brazilian Navy office. But eventually we walked out of his office with the all important charting information for the Amazon Delta area. From there we ventured back to Hostal Manaus where we said our goodbyes to Alex & thanked him for all his help. We lugged all our gear, including fully assembled oars into a taxi, then a boat, & then finally we arrived at Skop Gat, our trusty raft.

To our shock we found Skop Gat to be in a not so good state. She had been trashed in the recent storms that had hit the area. She had been pushed up against pylons & pontoons – clips were broken, holes were torn in the lower canopy extension, outrigger/thwart retainers had been torn off & a gash had been worn into the LHS rear pontoon. Ahhh! We spent the next 2 hours getting her back in working order, then I had a little disagreement with the chap who was looking after her regarding the “minders fee”. As per usual he wanted more money but when I asked him if he was going to fix me up for all the damage to Skop Gat as a result of his “minding”, we quickly reached a gentlemen’s agreement & we were on our way.

I was first shift on the oars but I wasn’t feeling too crash hot. I hadn’t been feeling too well for the whole day actually & as the early evening progressed so too did my decline. Furthermore the prevailing headwind began to start pumping. This coupled with the fact that the flow of the Negro where it converged with the Amazon River was very mixed up, messy water meant that in my first 6 hr shift we made very little progress – I’m talking about 3km, if that. I was quickly fading in the engine room & I stumbled into bed when Marko took over at 12.00 midnight. Things didn’t improve too much for him with the headwind nor the flow. Plus he wasn’t feeling 100% either with a quick hit of diarrhea slowing him up. The end result – after 12hrs of paddling we had progressed only 10km. It looked like it was going to be a long ride to Santarem!

The headwinds from the East have been relentless – they are now always with us, the only variable has been their intensity. I was pretty low for the next 2 days & at times I would simply look for huge trees flowing in the river so I could have a quick breather. I would tie up to the floating beast so we would at least keep moving forward against the headwinds, whilst I crashed out in the back engine room for 20 mins to rest. Thankfully after 2 days, the nausea passed & I began to regain strength & energy. Yeha! Life is a little easier & a much better experience when your not spewing & have no energy in the tank.

We still encounter intense storms but they have been a little quicker to pass. Whilst they might not hang around for as long as in the past, their amazing power is still there. Early one morning around 4.00am, Marko was on the oars when one of these little babies hit. We were in the middle of the river & we are talking a river that is now easily 5km wide. Within a matter of minutes the storm had blown us into the river left bank into a tree graveyard. There were enormous trees lying in the river everywhere & I do mean everywhere. These huge skeletons shadowed over us & seemed to imprison us with their tentacle like branches threatening to puncture Skop Gat at any moment. Marko desperately grabbed a hold of huge overhanging branch & just stuck fast whilst the wind howled & the rain fired down. I was inside & frantically monitoring the branches all around. I pushed away a couple of trees from our sides but I could still hear rubbing from somewhere. Then suddenly, I heard the unmistakable sound of something tearing. I turned to the front of the boat & there before me I see this huge branch actually inside the boat canopy – it had pierced a hole in the front lower canopy extension. Ooo Bugger, that’s not good. I immediately thought to myself, I’m glad I don’t sleep on that front bed anymore’. If I did, it would have been nasty! I carefully removed the branch & tried to push the tree away but it wasn’t budging & the branch continued to tap against the top canopy. I asked Marko if he could move us at all, but he was holding on for dear life outside – no left, no right, no forwards, no backwards. Marko muttered something like, “this just never ends”, we laughed & held on. Pretty soon the wind eased long enough for Marko to maneuver us out of there - & we just moved on. Another night on the Amazon.

After some really slow going in the first 3 days, we then began to hit our straps & we started to scorch our way here to Santarem. We used the river a little more creatively with the maps provided by Captain Pires. We would discuss the best flow rates through certain routes & then set ourselves up hrs in advance to make those moves. We have however had a few close calls with big ships & tankers late at night & early morning. These babies are just so big & you really have to stay on the ball because we are never going to win a fight against one of these heavyweights (as much as I would like to give it a go!). And we even get a bit of a joyride from the sets that roll in from their wake.

The prevailing headwinds coupled with the enormous width of the river have created an environment very similar to that of floating on the ocean. There are howling winds & crashing waves – yes waves that actually break! And there are times when you forget that we are actually on a river here & not an ocean. It really is amazing to see & experience.

Were not sure whether it is us taking more notice of our environment or whether the River Gods have decided to turn it on for us in this stretch from Manaus to Santarem. But either way, our memory banks of treasured memories & special moments continue to grow. We perhaps saw our last full moon on the Amazon & what a night it was. Every night previously had been overcast but this one night the Amazon put on a show. A clear night, a full moon that glowed with such intensity that it lit up the river, the jungle, everything. You could feel the power of the night everywhere – the breeze in your face, the stars all around & that moon…

There has been a multitude of spectacular sunsets, with such beautiful hues reflecting off majestic cloud formations. It leaves you in awe at this place we call the Amazon. Again there seems to be a great energy emanating all around at these times.

And of course the dolphins. Almost daily we spend quality time with our friends. They play & frolic, laugh at us when we try & take photos & just plain make our day. We have even spent times in the water swimming with them trying to get them excited. But it seems my years as a dolphin trainer have not paid off & I’m yet to actually touch one of these spectacular creatures.

Then there are those funny little things that happen – like Marko falling into the river whilst trying to tie up to a huge floating tree trunk. I had jumped out for a pee & I turn around to see there is no Marko on the oars – Huh? After I investigate further I see Marko sheepishly looking up from the log he was clinging too. He had over extended as he tried to grab a hold of the tree & tumbled into the river. We laughed!

One morning when I was sick I was lying down in the back of the raft. Marko had woken up & looked out to see an empty seat. To put it politely he’s… himself. Thinking to himself that I had fallen out of the boat in my delirious state, he jumped up from his slumber shouting ‘Nath’. I groaned out from my sloth like state in the bottom of the raft. Thank God was the big fella’s response. Again we laughed!

Ok back down to business. Well, we will stop here in Santarem for a day or so to resupply, get a good nights rest & prepare for the final chapter. Yes, this is it, we have traveled somewhere close to 6000km & we now only have 800km left until we stand on that beach at the Atlantic Ocean. Its crunch time – we have about 400km to the Amazon Delta wherein the river will branch off into a multitude of different channels. From here the huge tidal surges from the Atlantic will now impact upon our progress quite drastically. We will have only small windows every day to make some progress towards Belem, as there is no way we can negotiate the power of an incoming tide. We will have to be patient & time our runs forward with the outgoing flows & then make sure we are secure when she turns so we don’t go backwards. The other factor we have to keep an eye on is our route through the Delta. We have to get this right! We want to take the Southern most route towards Belem for 2 reasons. Firstly, it will protect us against the threat of Pororachas (which are wicked rolling waves that make their way in from the Atlantic & the Northern reaches of the Delta area). Secondly, this Southern Route will see us travel the entire distance of the Amazon River, which is now also recognized as the world’s longest river (National Geographic). Due to the many variables, we estimate that this final run to the Atlantic could take anywhere between 10 & 20 days. All will become clear in the fullness of time. What does the mighty Amazon have installed for us in this final chapter? Let’s find out…

Check out our latest photos

39 Comments »

Well Nath, you may be ill but I’ve never seen you looking more healthy, happy and content! You’re glowing with confidence and positivity and the energy from your photos is almost tangible!! You sound, act, look and feel positive, in turn, attracting it straight back into your life and reflecting in small wonders, nature’s greatest gift of artistry in the sea and sky, your brother friendship and skop gat love! Not to forget the appreciation of every situation whether good or bad.

I wish we could get a google earth satellite positioned over you so that we could see the delta from the top and just direct you through - guess that would take the fun out of negotiating with the navy though! Please make sure that you stop at 800km and don’t get carried away with the dolphins into the big blue! I know you’re really enjoying it but it has to end sometime

A gazillion best wishes from South Africa - we were sharing the full moon!! It was absolutely mind blowing from the top of Lions Head with a fiery hot sunset over the ocean and a cool hue moonrise over the bay and the city bowl - lap it up!!

Almost home owl and pussycat!

Comment by Jess — January 29, 2008 @ 8:45 am
Amazing stuff boys!

It only seems like yesterday that we were at the airport saying goodbye, all of us that were left behind wondering how we were going to cope not having you in our lives for 6+ months…and here we are almost at the end of your epic journey - how time flies. I can’t believe that I will be seeing you in the flesh in South America in just over 4 weeks! OMG - I’m excited!!!

Beautiful post Nath - you paint the picture so well.

Look at what you have achieved already and be proud. Relish these last days on your beloved river - take in every moment, store it in your memory bank and most of all enjoy!

Be safe. Big big love. Ange xxx

Comment by Angela Hanly — January 29, 2008 @ 8:55 am
“Let your mind start a journey thru a strange new world. Leave all thoughts of the world you knew before. Let your soul take you where you long to be…Close your eyes let your spirit start to soar, and you’ll live as you’ve never lived before.”

Erich Fromm

Comment by Jess — January 29, 2008 @ 8:57 am
Well done my brothers! I cant say I know what you feel like but I have a slight idea. So very much well done again.

Someone asked me that if I knew it was gonna be tough, would I still have gone? Maybe its a good thing you didnt show me the brochure Nath. So your ‘normal’ getting sick when leaving, still carries on, some things never change…

And you wouldnt guess who I saw tonight. Tara from J-bay we net in Cuzco, obviously Scott too. Anyway, glad you ouens are skopping serious gat. And Buf, you still the biggest mono popa i know.

Awe-ness from my family back here too, they more interested in you nowadays than me (and i dont blame them). So give it all you got!

Comment by Phil Popa — January 29, 2008 @ 9:22 am
Well done boys,

It seems a little surreal at this point hat you are almost finished. What a feeling that you boys must be experiencing right now in that you are doing what you set out to do and about to complete what was once a dream.

Buf - Not sure of your flight schedule brother, but I hope it is not through the US as there may be agood chance you get impounded with that beard my friend.

Nath - good to hear that you are at a great place within mate. Remember when taht at any time you are feeling down - it is purely the preparation to have us feel and experience something great - without those feelings we may never actually know how good it is to have great feelings. I always tell myself that if their wasn’t black than I would have no opportunity to see white - and then on this I tell myself that black can only exist if I don’t have the light on - so we must aim to always have the light on.

Right now boys - your lights are like the rays of the sun - no one can ignore them - the greatest whitewater in the world - Tick - the greatest volume - tick and what is this - the longest river in the world - tick. I am not sure how many would be able to carry this in their rafting resume - but you boys have done it - well done my friends. This is the equivilent to be compared to someone like Bill Gates, Michael Dell and the likes in the world of business as not many get to be there . . . . and here you are.

Man - I just can’t get my head around it right now - one last section of water to go. Keep going with your tactics - go over the maps, consult each other and then plan ahead to exactly where you want to be on the river - this is flawless. I see that you should also make room for plan b’s everytime you plan. This will allow you both to know exactly where to go if plan A is not able to be done due to any unforseens.

Proud of you both,

In God’s speed,

Mick

Comment by Mick — January 29, 2008 @ 10:37 am
Check out the 2008 Kokatat catuloge. you might see someone you know. awe

Comment by phil — January 30, 2008 @ 12:29 am
Sitting here with tears in my eyes (some things never change eh Nath?!?!?!)

How humbling to be have been in the earths lungs, the world’s longest river, to have looked inwards, outwards, upwards….and now onwards.

My prayers are truly that as you work towards that end goal that you are mindful of the HUGENESS and the little stuff, within and without and are able to graciously integrate it all - with some of that patience you have acquired.

You are both looking so alive, as stated by Jess, alive - regardless of the stomach ailments!!!!

BIG hugs, more love from Africa,
Lexy xxxx

Comment by Lexy — January 30, 2008 @ 7:08 am
I am not going to write a novel or give you words of wisdom but I do have news from the real world!! Heath Ledger my next husband died last week, and the Australian prime minster delivered a speech last week that has made its rounds here in the US, wanting him to run for President!! So all in all the aussies are having a good but sad week. Well boys if you needed maps from the Navy, HELLO, you need a female for that. Well if you really wanted a quick delivery that is!! I would have voulanteered but I am not the type to bath in the same water that I have to pee in and drink from!! Ange and Holly you might want to be really careful…….!!LOL!! Have fun on the last leg boys and savor every moment!!

Comment by jaks (nat's lil sis) — January 30, 2008 @ 7:33 am
Buf, that beard suits you more by the day, the more you cover your face, the better you look…

Comment by philipo — January 30, 2008 @ 7:59 pm
Hi Mark & Nat,it appears Big Phil is well and truely on the mend especially after his comments about Marko’s face , just remember Phil both Holly and Donna read this post and I bet London to a Brick they love that face anyway it presented and they have long memories ( He! He!).
Nat with the amount of nausia and diarrhea you have endured during this journey medical science will be interested examining that gut of yours.
But I agree with the comments on this post that the photos show you looking extremely healthy .
With the finishing line so close and the end so near, we are all excited, waiting for that precious moment when you both hit the Alantic Ocean.
All who have shared your journey may not be there in presance when you cross the finishing line but you will feel our spirit and support.
Now that you in the home straigth please remain vigilant and safe.
The three of you ,Mark , Nat & Phil are an inspiration to us all.
The best why to describe our feelings would be to quote the words of one of Australia’s Favourite Sporting Commentators, the great Norman May,these words were his favourites and they mirror your achievments,its gold! gold! gold!
It’s a gold performance for three special men. Make sure you enjoy and bask in the glory of your achievement . Cheers Bill

Comment by Bill Welch — January 31, 2008 @ 1:56 pm
Where are you boys? I hope you are feeling well refreshed - remember that the greatest experiences of life are always on the other side of right where we are now.

God’s speed,

Mick

Comment by Mick — January 31, 2008 @ 7:55 pm
Hey Guys

I am still trying to post a comment and I will keep trying until your adventure is over. I wish I knew what the bloody problem with my computer is.

I have followed your journey and as it went I laughed, I cried, I felt fear and frustration but above all I have felt a growing sense of wonder and awe not just about you men but about what you have the human race is capable of. I we as a global people could be as courageous, strong, determined and willing to find viable solutions then we could heal this world of its ills and ensure that dignity and respect and freedom would be the lot of every human being.

As for the BBC trip, they too are worthy of admiration and adulation, However, yours would be more effective in awakening the minds of people to the amazing potential that is humanity. Yours is raw and unadulterated real life where nothing can be re-done to make it look better.

Anyway I’ve got to go and prepare for my classes tomorrow. I second all that Dad (Grumblebum) has said and Welchy, I can’t find the words to describe my love and appreciation for you - you are an inspirational man who provides those of us who are with you with the will to put just a little more into those challenges which come our way every day.

Love
John

Comment by John (JD) Pyke — January 31, 2008 @ 10:01 pm
I am ripped! I have finally got through - this is the first time I have successfully managed to get a message posted since the very early days of your journey. I have tried almost every night unsuccessfully to make contact. I now hope that I can be with you to the end.

JD

Comment by John (JD) Pyke — January 31, 2008 @ 10:03 pm
Geez Buf,
Ever since getting a hold of you I’ve been tracking your progress. Your getting close to the finish line now and an inspiration to us all. Keep at it and stay safe. And by the way the beard suits Grizzly Adams.

Ricky

Comment by Ricky Kulpinski — February 2, 2008 @ 2:04 am
hey….just wished we could get a google sat over you guys and direct you - right now, i would just be :)
if we could see where you were!

Its just another gorgeous day in Africa today…..blue skies, big puffy white clouds, electrcity all running (this is big currently) and despite the chaos in Kenya (country is in civil crisis), lots of goodstuff is happening!

looking forward to hearing & seeing the next update sooon!!!!

lexy x

Comment by Lexy — February 2, 2008 @ 8:32 pm
p.s…..that should have read Jess just wished…. fingers getting tired…thesis driven only!

Comment by Lexy — February 2, 2008 @ 8:34 pm
Hi Nathan & Mark, This message is from Grumblebum, his computer has had the richard again dont know how long before it is fixed.

He wants to let you know they are all thinking of you both & are pushing all the way with you.
Grumblebum hopes you enjoy & take in everything along the way on this last leg, their prayers & thoughts are with you. Love & Prayers Grumblebum,Granny & Margy

Comment by Toni-Maree — February 3, 2008 @ 7:34 pm
Well done guys, we are all so very proud of all you have achieved, hope this last leg allows you to take in all there is & enjoy every moment. Bring it home boys we are with you all the way Love Toni xx

PS hope skop gat sees you to the finish line.

Comment by Toni-Maree — February 3, 2008 @ 7:46 pm
It is said that conquering adversity makes one stronger. You guys will look like the HULK by the time you finish!
Whats a holiday without a few problems hey? he he he he!!!!!
Glad to hear that you are on the way home.
I’m sure you would be disappointed if things got easier for you on this last leg, but I hope not too much goes awry for you both.
Chins up! Oars Ready! Go you good thing!!!
Cheers
Madonna, Chris and Tahlie

Comment by Madonna, Chris & Tahlie — February 4, 2008 @ 3:41 pm
Buf & Welchy
Great work fellas,i like your use of the tree logs in the strong headwinds. All de best for the next stretch.

Comment by willow — February 5, 2008 @ 7:41 am
Howdy

Top effort guys. We are so proud of you….and to think that this all started from an idea….Amazing!!

As Oliver Wendell Holmes said ..

“Man’s mind stretched to a new idea never goes back to its original shape”

Am sure there’s another one brewing in your mishapen grey matter as we speak.

Top stuff guys!

Love Janelle, David and Finnegan xxxx

Comment by Janelle — February 5, 2008 @ 8:57 am
Howdy boys,

Thanks for the update this morn Nath - sounds like it’s tough going with the massive tidal surges and headwinds - but it wouldn’t be Expedition Amazonas if there weren’t a few “little” challenges to finish off with eh!

I think it may be Mother Natures way of slowing you down and giving you the opportunity to absorb your surroundings and take stock of what you’ve achieved!

Slow and steady boys - you’re almost there!

Big hugs and tonnes of love.
Ange xoxo

Comment by Angela Hanly — February 5, 2008 @ 10:31 am
Hey queefs. Hope all’s well and good and things are workin out like things can only work on an expedition…

I constantly think of the things we’ve been through and so happy i am involved in this. And now that you 2 are almost done i can only say well done, things will be a little different and i am jealous i couldnt finish with you. And for some reason i really felt like having a Vivanda meal + inca cola. So it must mean i’m ok again, back to abnormal. But i think i’ll never be the same again. I feel good but definatly think there’s long term damage thats gonna take time to heal. But like we say in my native tongue, ‘Onkruid vergaan nie’.

So all thats left for me to say is Skop gat and go safe.

Awe-ness

Comment by Dredphil — February 6, 2008 @ 12:29 am
And buf, sorry bout the beard comment, i know you sensitive bout those things. After all, YOU are the face of the expedition!

Comment by Dredphil — February 6, 2008 @ 12:35 am
Boa Noite
….sending more hugs..also asking you guys to send out prayers for Africa…along with Heath’s passing making headlines….other current headlines incl:

Kenya and Chad are in the midst of ethnic violence and a coup respectively, whilst my other home country, Mozambique had riots in the main cities today to protest increasing fuel prices…guess its a little cheeky to ask, but eh

back to thesis…relish these last days!

Comment by Lexy — February 6, 2008 @ 6:31 am
Hi Lexy,

Alot going on in Africa right now and you have to wonder why so much across these nations right at this point in time. Our prayers are for peace in the hearts of all the leaders in these places, to man it seems a forgone conclusion but what is impossible for man is possible for God.

It is funny that we see such tragedy in the passing of Heath (which seriously impacted myself and my heart goest to his family) yet in the passing of a day so many lives are lost without even a hint of noise across the waves of the west. It seems that for the most of us tragedy is only that which impacts us directly or at least we are able to relate to, when I suppose the fact is that there is a cost being paid each and every day somewhere by someone - to me - this is the tragedy of the western lifestyle. Unless it affects us directly it is not tragic but a problem that someone else should fix - my heart goes out to all those innocent lives being affected by war and tragedy in Africa and the rest of the world.

Nath and Buff,

Keep digging deep my friends their is more in their yet - you have a strategic and tiring few weeks ahead but it will all be at an end soon and then you will wake wanting more as you will no longer be on the water. Good things always comes to those who wait.

Patience my friends - patience - perserverance.

God’s speed,

Mick

Comment by Mick — February 6, 2008 @ 6:37 pm
Guys

Just dropped in to see what was happening and to wish you the very best as you engage with the last leg of your journey. It sounds like it could be a tough encounter so if it proves to be as challenging as it sounds, draw strength from the knowledge of what you have faced so far and the determination, the courage and the strength of your mateship which has helped you conquer so many obstacles. Call on the universal energy that is fed by the thoughts, prayers and well wishes of all who stand in support of you.

Phil, I feel for you as these two mates of yours face the final element. I hope that the condition that took you out of the journey, at least in a physical way, rights itself and does not become a permanent burden.

See you next time I’m on the site boys and may whatever force, power and strength you need be with you.

John

Comment by John (JD) Pyke — February 6, 2008 @ 9:41 pm
Dear Nathan and Mark

Well you guys must be so excited. Nearly at the end of your incredible journey with only 800 km to go. When you receive this it will be less I am sure. Roll on Atlantic Ocean. I really believe you boys should write a book. Your account of daily events makes you feel as though you are right there with you. Take care for the last leg.

Love Auntie Chrissy

Comment by chrissy kofod — February 7, 2008 @ 10:35 am
just sending big hugs…..and lots of love…. choc chip cookies

keep pushin on…..

Comment by Lexy — February 10, 2008 @ 2:11 am
Hi Nath and Marco,

It was wonderful to meet you two guys on the edge of my river here in Barcarena district. Fancy meeting Aussies here!!! Especially paddling down the Amazon River.

You are now so close to the end it must be a great relief and I am sure some excitement.

I hope to keep up with your last 10 days and see you back around Belem when you finish.

Our thoughts are with you.

Geoff and Patcha and Hoty

Comment by Geoff Mowatt — February 12, 2008 @ 8:35 am
Hi boys,

no matter what happens or how long it takes to happen - the end is near and although not there now the three of you (Phil included) will know that it was all worth it. All the pain, suffering, sickness, mystery, fear, excitment, thrill, jubilation, it is all worth it.

I think that no matter what we do it is always the last stage that is the hardest - this is where everything we have gone through, every we have overcome all comes to a head and seems 10 times harder - but my friends as you keep on keeping on - the end will just turn up - it is their - right in fron of you - just keep on keeping on and look to the finish line to motivate each and every stroke.

Your story will show people if you just keep on going - it is all possible. Not just reaching goals but actually getting to the finish line each and every time.

Go boys, I send the peace of God to you so that you may be in awe of his bigness ad that He is over you right now. No matter what you are always champions.

Note: would you now no longer be paddlers but “rowers” as you are looking backwards when in the seat? I laugh to myself :)

In the writings of saint Paul he says that it is never how we atart the race but only how we finish. In life we tend to only be focused on how we start when truly the only thing that counts is how we finish. wether it be a job, business, marriage, parenthood, paddling the amazon or our life we should always look to finish well. You boys inspire me to want to do something great - to be all I can be - to actually live this life to its best ability. I truly thankyou for your committment to your trek and getting the best out of yourselves. Be asured tht all three of you have finsihed well.

In God’s speed,

Mick

Comment by Mick — February 12, 2008 @ 2:37 pm
Geeez! Wicked! Unreal!

You boys are almost there! Far out…bet you can’t wait to come back to work at MD Markus maximus! ha ha ha. Asha keeps asking about you… I think they will up your pay rate to $14 an hour with your new found knowledge.

But seriously, bloody well done chaps! So friggin cool…and thet beard Mark…classic.

Sorry I have been in NZ for the last 2.5 weeks getting married, rafting and mountaineeering. Back now so any changes that need to be done, let me know

Comment by Mark Kalch — February 12, 2008 @ 3:44 pm
Whoops…I’m Mark Kalch, who the hell are you?

- AJ

Comment by Mark Kalch — February 12, 2008 @ 3:44 pm
Hi Boys,

remember, all it takes is the belief of one person and their willingness to do whatever it takes - to change the world. Greatness is not measured by success but by character - by what a man is willing to do without gain.

Go strong boys, no doubt your character has been built the last 5 months in preparation to change the world. The end is near and nothing can change that - even a little progress brings you closer.

In God’s speed

Mick

Comment by Mick — February 13, 2008 @ 12:39 am
every morning and evening the first and last thing i do is check in for any updates. butterflies are fluttering for you all (Philipo you too!!!!!) as the waters grow in their expanse….

frosting glasses and champers in anticipation of the celebrations ahead

Praying for God’s protection against those bigboys, for peace, restoration when you rest and the ability to transition slowly, safely, satisfingly into what must feel like a new world.

lexy x

Comment by Lexy — February 13, 2008 @ 6:03 am
Welcome to Belem Lucky Seals(Mark, Nathan, and Philipos Spirit)!

Sounds like quite an Odyssey! Like travelling to Ithaca with all the strength and resourcefulness of Odysseus.

I bet there’s nothing like that winning feeling?

Break a leg for the finale hey!

Matt

Comment by Matt Kalch — February 13, 2008 @ 10:47 am
To All Friends & Supporters, Mark & Nat (Phils Spirit) have safely arrived in Belem however the journey from Santarem to Belem has physcilly and mentally drained the boys, they are exhausted.
With only 180km to the finish line I believe your continued support and encouragement through these posts will lift the boys to the finish line .
If possible please make a special effort to keep the words of encouagement & support coming as they do give the boys that extra boost .
Cheers Bill

Comment by Bill Welch — February 13, 2008 @ 7:25 pm
Bill, thank you sooooo much for the news!!!

Mark & Nath,
words seem lacking right now, but like Mick said keep your eyes fixed on that finish line…I have not even dared to look at “the amazon book” on my shelf…its been far more real living, feeling and seeing it through your eyes and experiences…

wish we could all be there in the flesh in order to encourage, motivate, yell, massage and pump energy into you both…instead am sending it across the seas…

WELL DONE….

Comment by Lexy — February 13, 2008 @ 7:31 pm
okay - final check in for today - about to leave work….facebook group has gotten Bill’s message (thanks Jess) and so know that you know that you know that there are lots of WHOOOHOOOO”s going up for you guys…..

big hugs

Comment by Lexy — February 14, 2008 @ 6:43 am