Christmas Eve is the day for Swedish celebration with gift exchanges and a traditional banquet.

Every person on the Oden is unusual. No one was chosen at random to spend months traveling to the beautiful frozen seas of Antarctica. Some are the best scientists and hardest working students in the world. Others have invested years becoming so skilled as sailors and technicians that they were chosen over many others for this international expedition. No one on board has just let life happen to them. No one is here because they were lucky. Everyone has worked hard and sacrificed to become part of this important team. We all know that the work we do here is important to people across the world but we also know that part of the cost is personal and family sacrifice. All of us are thinking of our families today.

As I look out the window on this Christmas Eve, I marvel at the endless expanse of sea ice that stretches to the horizon. I wonder why the only 3 seals and the only 3 penguins that I can see for miles chose to rest on the ice right next to the ship. This is best example I have ever seen in nature of the image portrayed in the famous painting of "The Peaceable Kingdom". Then, as if it was a holiday gift for me, a Minke Whale just surfaced 10 meters in front of Oden's bow. But, I am constantly reminded that this gift was given to me, in part, by the support and sacrifice of my family. Thank you. I love you and miss you all.

Christmas Greetings from Oden

Making memories on the ice,

Jeff Peneston