Animals

Location: Marina Lanzarote

Blogger: Jenny

Following a discussion between mum and Fizzy of Carpe Diem, there has been much talk over the festive period about which animal’s characteristics each of the crew members shares. Jack – do you know which animal you were likened to??!!

This discussion has gone international as Marcus took it back to the UK with him for Christmas. Below is a summary of the conclusions to date (yes we’re starting to crack up and we haven’t even left yet).

Dad (John)

Mum initially said she thought dad was a cart horse – dependable, not too flashy, solid and strong – but we felt that this was a bit boring and I don’t think dad was too pleased, although the idea did seem to grow on him! His real animal was discovered during a nice Tapas meal, when Marcus said “I’m not sure you’re going to like this, but I think you’re a pig, John”, followed closely by “I can’t believe I just called my girlfriend’s dad a pig”. After the laughter had died down we agreed that this was actually a really good fit. Clever, doesn’t mind getting dirty, reliable, strong and resourceful.

Dad – Gloucester Old Spot

Mum (Gill)

Mum’s took some discussion. We needed an animal which was protective of her young, a sociable pack animal, clever and a good provider. Many different species were discussed before we settled on a final two: a lioness or a blue whale. Mum was definitely in favour of being a lioness but we thought that this was too fierce so in the end we decided that she was a blue whale. (It must be noted here that we don’t think this is a very good visual fit)!

Mum – blue whale

Marcus

This was quite a tricky one. Marcus is independent and he’s happy on his own, he’s a thinker and planner and always chooses who he gives his time to carefully. It was quickly decided he should be some kind of cat, but which species? A domestic cat seemed too unadventurous but a big cat too flashy and in your face. Eventually, Marcus suggested that he should be a crap wild cat. A wild cat in characteristics but without the benefit of being exciting to spot in the wild! Perhaps a little harsh but a good fit.

Marcus – crap wild cat

Me (Jenny)

There is still ongoing debate about this one (suggestions on a postcard please) but the current suggestions are either a small bird – definitely one that has too much energy and is really squarky and fliting – or a kangaroo. The kangaroo was suggested by the Reading contingent as being full of energy and “free-spirited”.

Me - TBC

Wombat (Shore Support)

Emma, the younger Douch daughter already has the nickname of Wombat and this was suggested as quite a good fit, but the best suggestion we had was a ring-tailed lemur. Like Emma, these animals are happy on their own or in a group, can be energetic and excitable or quiet, like sleeping and are pretty awesome. I think of everyone, Wom was most pleased with her animal.

Wombat – ring-tailed lemur

Peter (Marcus’ dad)

This is a tricky one and I understand took quite a lot of discussion. Eventually it was decided that Peter was a buffalo because he’s strong and reliable and a problem solver. We’re not sure, however, if their reputation as one of the most deadly animals in Africa was taken into account….

Peter - buffalo

Angela (Marcus’ mum)

This might be my favourite one. Angela herself suggested that she was a squirrel and the fit is excellent. A really good provider and forward planner, looks after her young brilliantly and makes a very good nest. The only slight downside to this is that Peter regularly (attempts) to shoot squirrels with a BB gun in their garden which hopefully isn’t part of the likeness.

Angela - squirrel

So all sorted then. Feel free to add comments or suggestions below and we’ll look forward to hearing which animals you think we’re all like.