Epiphany

The day started clear but low grey clouds started to gather from about 7 am and by half past eight it was raining gently. The rain has now stopped but the heavy clouds are still with us and it may yet rain again. There is a north westerly wind blowing up to Force 8 in the Aegean for the second time this week and shipping has been disrupted once again. The Symi II ran as normal on Monday, did a hasty there and back on Wednesday afternoon despite the gale warning and may run tomorrow if the forecast improves. Wednesday's 'big boat' never materialised and the next one is only scheduled to come through on Monday. By the time the Athens News newspaper reaches Symi these days, the on line version is available! Fortunately we have been spared thus far the dramas of previous winters when storms knocked out television and telephone systems and left the island seriously isolated from the world.

It was a clear calm day for the Epiphany ceremonies yesterday (see Out and About pictures) and once their ecclesiastical obligations were fulfilled, a large number of locals were seen to depart in small boats or set up with fishing rods in the harbour. Fine days are in short supply at this time of the year and it is always best to make the most of those opportunities which present themselves to enjoy a little winter sunshine.

It is still very quiet on the island and most tradesmen will only be back at work on Monday. Most Yannis have taken the day off today as it is their name day. The Fotinis had theirs yesterday. There is little traffic in the harbour and few people about - the absence of the bus discourages those from Chorio from venturing into the harbour unless absolutely necessary, particularly as the taxis are working winter shifts and spend as much time driving pickups laden with hay or sheep as cars full of people.

Have a peaceful weekend.

Regards,
Adriana
www.SymiVisitor.com