29 November 2008 Thanksgiving in Antarctica

The rest of the United States celebrated Thanksgiving on Thursday, November 27th but at McMurdo Station we are celebrating on Saturday, November 29th. The reason for this is that Sunday is a day off for most of the people on the station. If we celebrate on Saturday, then most people will get a two day weekend. What a treat! I walked out of my dorm for brunch and I was struck by the weather. It looked just like a winter wonderland with the snow blowing everywhere. Of course, in Antarctica this can quickly turn into a winter watch. I was not surprised to look up and see the lights lit that signify a Condition Two.

I have to admit that I still thought it was beautiful. I love to walk in the snow and feel the snowflakes land on my hair and on my face. It reminds me of my days in college at Colgate University in upstate New York. It would start snowing in October and continue until April. I never tired of playing in the snow and taking long walks when the snow was falling. I grew up in Tennessee and snow was such a rare treat that I have always viewed it as a special occasion.

Today we are having our Thanksgiving dinner at 7:00pm. You had a choice of 3:00pm, 5:00pm, or 7:00pm. We all met up early and went over together. Our group had expanded from five to fourteen. It is amazing how you can bond with people that you have known for just a few weeks. I think this is due to the fact that we are sharing the experience of living in Antarctica and facing the challenges that it entails.

When we walked into the galley I was delighted to see that they had put tablecloths on the tables. I was awestruck when I saw all of the food. There was turkey, dressing, sweet potato casserole with marshmallows (one of my favorites), and cranberry sauce. There was also a cheese tray with carrots celery, and olives. They also served shrimp and London broil. Then you walked over and saw more desserts than you could count. They had pumpkin pie with real whipped cream, white chocolate pistachio cheesecake, flourless chocolate cake, pecan tarts, chocolate cream-filled puff pastries, and various types of truffles. It was definitely a feast. Everyone filled their plate and I saw several go back for seconds.

We stayed for over two hours. There was good conversation, laughter, and lots of food. It was a wonderful Thanksgiving meal.

After dinner I returned to my room to do some work. I took a few moments to stop and think about everything that I am thankful for in my life. I have a caring family, wonderful friends, adorable cats, a job that I love, good health, a roof over my head and a car to get me places, the opportunity to travel and learn, and the wisdom to realize that I am truly blessed.

Happy Thanksgiving from Antarctica!