We all have parts of ourselves and befriending them can make a big difference in how we interact with the world. At least that is the perspective of Dick Schwartz, who developed a model (Internal Family Systems) that has come to make a lot of sense to me.
Among my parts are kid parts. These kid parts love marine mammals and penguins. This post, therefore, is for those kid parts of me (and perhaps of you).
These animals are cute, free, interesting and somehow to many of us humans they can feel full of joy. There have been plenty of these creatures to see over the past few weeks.
Most majestic are the whales. The Antarctic seas are full of whales. We saw fin whales from afar. Humpbacks were there in large numbers, feeding on the krill. We saw humpbacks many times and, while pictures were challenging, the whales were amazing. They circle around, making bubbles and lunge toward the surface.
From the ship, we spotted a few dolphins. I’m sure they are there, but I didn’t get a good enough view for a picture.
Penguins are very cute. We saw some Gentu penguins swimming along the ship. They were in a group and jumping out of the water as they swim along. They were also on an iceberg we passed.
And in the Falkland Islands we visited a Gentu Penguin colony of about 200 animals. Walking among them was really cool. There was even one King Penguin there (but I didn’t get a picture of the King).
From Punta Del Este, Uruguay, we took a six mile trip to an island that has the second largest colony of South American sea lions . Th naming of these animals seems a bit confusing. In Uruguay, they call them sea wolves. They were also called fur seals by our guide, but they are not actually seals. Whatever they are called, they were great.
They were swimming everywhere, resting with two flippers in the air.
They were on the rocks, large males guarding their harems.
I don’t think my fascination with these marine animals is unique. In many of the souvenir shops, one of the most popular purchases I noticed were little plush toys. In the Falkland Islands, the penguins were most popular. There were statutes, refrigerator magnets, tiles, and aprons. Whatever you wanted, you could have it with a penguin. Something about the cuteness of these animals appeals broadly to people. My conclusion is that lots of people have kid parts that also like these marine animals.
My kid parts are so happy that I am letting them linger over the pictures you took! They also want me to ask where in NM your nephew is setting up his business…? We lived near that trail and know that there is a need for a new generation of “Outfitters.” They really like how you and your sister are supporting him… shamelessly!! YAY!
Love those pictures. Definitely awe inspiring. I believe our kid parts in us are the most in touch with that feeling of awe and can empathize the best with the playful and free nature of those animals 🙂
For me, watching whales is a spiritual experience – don’t know if you can call that a kid part or not. I do think travels where you can engage with animals and spend time appreciating them are some of the best trips ever. lucky you!
I love imagining being among the penguins and seeing the whales and seals up close
I’m glad youre enjoyuing the “kids parts” too…….and can do it with your sister. Penguins are special. Ruby & Cinda visited the aquarium 23 days ago and Ruiby came home with a soft cuddly Penguin doll —- i guess this love will last a lifetime.
I cant believe you were at the Tierra del Fuego Park !
Thanks for sending along these fabulous posts.
Love that you are enjoying your kid parts!!! 🥰
Well, I don’t know very much about “kid’s parts” etc (that suggests understanding brain development) but I do know that every whale, penguin, etc shares our DNA. Consequently, we are watching part of our selves when we observe them. All the best!