a peek inside the fishbowl

We first ventured into the dank darkness that is known as the Lusk Caves around this time last year. The water level was pretty high, we were all rather freaked out (okay, maybe that was just me), and we didn’t make it all the way through.

This year, we decided we wanted to do it again. And guess what? We did it.

This kind of cave “exploring”  (I am using the term rather loosely here, because there’s only one path through the cave system and there isn’t that much to explore) is an amazing way to give yourself your kids a boost of self-confidence. Sarah and Emma were both as jumpy as a couple of mice at a cat party, but they did it … one small step at a time.

Why was I worried? Well, for starters:

- it was DARK in there
- there was flowing water
- we had headlights that weren’t quite bright enough.

Better yet, here’s a pictoral chronology.

Lac Phillipe at noon today. NOT A SOUL to be seen. I never seen it so entirely people-free. In fact, I wondered if we had accidentally stumbled upon some alternate universe in which there were no crowds:

It’s an easy 5km hike to the cave:

And there it is (yes, that black hole carved in the rocks):

Guess who’s excited?

Watch your step!

Um, did I mention it was pitch dark?

Now just LOOK at this photo, and tell me, would or would you not feel a slight pang of discomfort at this point in the journey? Note that Sarah is shorter than I am. She’s deep in the water and she had actual headroom. I was crouched over, holding my camera up next to my ear, and beginning to hyperventilate:

 Holy Mary was I happy to see the light of day.

The girls wanted to go again, but as my chest loosened I realized how much I didn’t really want to do it again. But I’m rather pleased I did. You know what I mean?

They are immensely proud of their accomplishment today, as am I. That’s one more off the list too!

p.s. If you’re keen to check out the caves for yourselves GO NOW while the water level is low and is still warm(ish)!

Tommorow I will tell you about a very different kind of field trip we had recently. Some of you might like this one too. :)