GLACIER:  an extended mass of ice formed from snow falling and accumulating over the years and moving very slowly, either descending from high mountains, as in valley glaciers, or moving outward from centers of accumulation, as in continental glaciers.

Hannah and I took a Stan Stephens cruise and it lasted all day (from about 10am-7pm).  This was toward the end of the week but I was excited to see the photos so I’m going to post them today.

We had some beautiful weather days during my 10 day adventure, but it was raining the day of the cruise.  The cost of the ride included unlimited hot beverages and a nice lunch and a cup of soup in the evening.   The hot beverages were greatly appreciated on this cold rainy day.   There were seats outside and inside.  Naturally we spent most of the time inside, but we got up now and then to take photos of the views; waterfalls, animals, fishermen, mountains, and the glacier.

massive waterfalls tumbling down the mountains; if I were sitting at the top I would be a dot.

Seals

“Do you see the goat?”

I actually enjoyed the “not so nice” weather days, as the mist and rain and fog gave a beautiful mood.

Just in case you’re like my daughter I will tell you like I told her, “It’s just a boulder”.

“Glacier ahead!”

“Hannah in a red coat”

We heard creaks and groans as we bobbed in the sea watching the ice.  Now and then, large pieces of it dropped off and into the water with thunderous splash.

The birds flying in this photo above the water make it easier to see how huge the glacier was.

MEARES GLACIER (click for more information)

 

Sea Otter

Whale

Everyone was in awe to see a mother whale and baby.  We stopped and stared at the sea for so long it is permanently & forever etched in my mind.  You only have a second or two to take a picture.  Don’t blink, you might miss it!

Sea Lions

with lovely brown skins

Seals are funny.

Geese

more sea lions, they were also thunderous (like the glacier) and made such rude sounds that reminded me of my sons for some reason.

It was really relaxing but Hannah got a little sick for a while on the choppy water.  She recovered well though and we both agreed that it was an amazing day!