On a Lighter Note: Neptune Rises

On a lighter note from all the geological/oceanographic postings, I wanted to update everyone on our actually crossing the equator, March 3^rd. As some of you may know, it is a rite of passage to cross the equator in a boat. All four of us were equatorial virgins, but Captain Jon had crossed it in an airplane so he got to do the honors of calling up King Neptune.

We crossed 0 degrees latitude around 7 pm in about 20 knots of wind (very unusual for the equator), so it was dark and the waters were choppy. As you can also see, the salt water had coated our equipment. No stopping the boat for a dip this time.

Nevertheless, Neptune did rise from the sea to initiate us pollywogs.

We all received a dousing of flour (fairy dust), powdered lemonade (the captain’s sourness) and salt (a symbol of our sea worthiness). In addition, Neptune gave us each a special gift.

"Princess” Guita received a food container necklace, so that she may never go hungry in her travels.

"Prince” Stephen received a fishing lure necklace, so that he may always catch fish wherever he journeys.

"Queen" Jennifer received a Velcro necklace covered in stars and sails.

Finally, a nip of Jameson’s was given to the real Neptune, to appease him and ask for safe passage.

A great time was had by all, and we may now all be considered hardy shell backs.