cruise ship that followed the Drake Passage—one of the world’s most treacherous ocean
passages—to Antarctica, allowing them to check two continents off their list on one
journey. They spent New Year’s Eve in Antarctica, enveloped in 24 hours of daylight.
Because they arrived during mating season, they were able to see humpback whales and
their babies breaching. They also had the opportunity to cross-country ski near a colony of
penguins.
“It was incredible,” Asia says. “It was an amazing experience.”
John says that seeing other parts of the world helps his children appreciate their own
environment even more.
“By visiting these other cultures, my children are able to see how lucky they are to live
where they live,” he explains.
He also appreciates the fact that his children enjoy spending time with him. He’s hoping
that they will be able to join him on the trip to Australia, which he says will be more of a
“leisure” trip with some hiking involved.
“I’m very lucky in that my son and
youngest daughter enjoy hiking and camping
as much as I do,” he notes. “They’ve been
my encouragement and also my inspiration
to accomplish these trips. It’s been very
rewarding for all of us.” n
Bethel Park | Winter 2016 | icmags.com 25