Hello from Pagan!
The last thing you expect sailing up to a deserted volcano island is a plane taking off and a helicopter landing but that’s just what we saw on our way into the anchorage about ten days ago. Turns out, Pagan is a very busy place right now. There are about twenty scientists plus support crew setting up seismic monitoring stations and a system to broadcast the data to AK so it can be posted online. All of the Pagan residents all employed by the scientists so during the day people are all working their butts off. Except for us that is. We’ve hiked to the east side of the island and up to the edge of the volcano (before it got too steep, rock slidey, and sulfury to keep going up), snorkeled a few reefs, explored the WWII, fished at night for lobsters, taken care of baby goats, roasted a pig, made coconut oil, made friends with scientists, locals, and sailors, and taken lots of video to share later. The wind is supposed to die Monday but we still have more to do before we head back to Saipan. When we leave will depend on what the weather decides to do next week. Things are great here and I think it’s safe to say another island has found its way to a special place in our hearts.
PS The scientists have wireless Internet which is how I am posting this. So crazy!
Sounds exciting. I had read that there was a USGS field crew on site but had no idea they were staying on the island – thought maybe they were flying in from Saipan. Sound like a really interesting place. Deep in touch about departure plans. Miss you.
WAY COOL! Ya just NEVER know who you’re going to run into or WHERE any more, eh???? :-))))) good winds and great sunsets to ya, mateys!
The last thing I expected to see in my morning mail was an update to your blog – after all you are on a deserted volcano island with no communication except VHF radio and sat phone. What a surprise! I hope the scientist are letting you check weather before you depart.
What a life! Lol I don’t think I will ever stop being awed by eletronic technology! I’ve been relaying your posts to Grammy & Grampy. Your recent phone call meant so much. Stay safe. Have too much fun! Love, hugs & prayers!
Hi guys! Glad to hear you’re making the most of being on Pagan during “busy season” meaning 20 people 🙂 Heard right after you left from scientists here that there will be all that activity happening there for the next few weeks or more. Nadeah’s parents ended up postponing their trip out here, so you guys have a place to stay up on our beautiful hill in Saipan.