SEEP Summer 2007: The Early Days

As the dust settled on the warm streets of Karystos, the bus doors opened and released upon the small community the first installment of volunteers for the Southern Euboea Exploration Project. These first four volunteers were then joined the following day by three more adventurous spirits; and the group was finally completed on the third day with the arrival of the final two. The valiant nine stand as follows: from the fjords of Norway hail Svein and Renate; from the lush coasts and the dry deserts of the United States come Heather, Rachel, and Mark; from the Shakespearean lands of Denmark arrive Mia and Rie; and finally, the beautiful island of Montreal, Canada offers us Chaya and Melissa. The team is supported by the fine and inspiring leadership of Field Director Zarko and Project Director Don.

The first few days of our expedition were marked by joy and revelry. Pleasures were had by all as we enjoyed the warm sun and sandy beaches of beautiful Karystos. But just as the smells of fresh souvlaki were enveloping our souls with their rich air, the realization became apparent that indeed we all did come here to do "work". However, our first attempt at "work" was quickly betrayed by several errors in our mapping and orientation systems. So unfortunately, the first day of the survey was ended almost as quickly as it began after just a few hours in the field. The second day was far more successful though. With the orientation problems solved, the team was able to undertake its true objective and survey a small section of the Karystian Kampos. This same ideal was upheld on the second day, although this particular survey area yielded far fewer results (but far more gifts of cuts and scratches from the local thorny brush).

All things considered, this summer season of the SEEP appears to have great potential. Expectations are high and motivations are higher. Perhaps a new discovery will be made in the next few days? Who knows? But until then, we will continue to strive in our quest to unravel the hidden secrets of the plains of Karystos.