garyandpearl

Day 7. January 23, 2014

Today was our day on Lady Elliot Island. Originally we were supposed to take a two hour boat ride from Gladstone to Heron Island, stay for two days, and then take a two hour boat ride back to Gladstone. Because of the fire on Heron Island, we rescheduled to this Island, and how grateful Laura and I were. We rode in a 13 passenger plane and enjoyed beautiful views along the way.

We were welcomed warmly. ( I heard echoes of “Da plane, Da plane” from Fantasy Island in my head). After an orientation and a Shirley Temple drink, we were fitted with snorkel gear and off to the pool for snorkel lessons. A trip on a glass bottom boat on the reef followed this, and then we were given a chance to snorkel at the Great Barrier Reef. Gary and Laura were able to touch a green sea turtle when it swam between them; a dream come true for Laura, the turtle lover. I stuck pretty close to the rope as I am not a water person, but our guide offered to hold my hand and lead me away from the boat where I saw amazing colored fish and the reef. The water was 89 degrees Fahrenheit; so comfortable!

Laura and I unfortunately got a bit sea sick, and thus we were so grateful to be spared 4 hours on a boat. We took a bit of time to recuperate once back on land, and then we enjoyed a buffet lunch which included corn on the cob (summer-time down here), curried lamb chops, fried fish, and a delicious vanilla/mocha mousse.

After freshening up, we explored the island and were able to go on guided island tour. There are over 60 species of birds which come here to nest.

On the island tour, we were told about the octopus tree. Each branch has one yellow leaf which becomes the sacrifice for the branch. It contains all of the excessive salt that is processed through the tree (from the salty surroundings). The rest of the leaves remain green and healthy. This reminded me of Jesus’ sacrifice for me. Who has sacrificed for you, or who have you sacrificed for?

Verse for the day: most of the chapter warns against adultery, but here is a verse on a different topic: Proverbs 7:4

“Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,”
and call insight your intimate friend” ESV Bible
Be wise, my friends!

Turtle news to follow in the next post!