Ready to step on  Antarctica
We arrived in McMurdo Station, Antarctica. woohooo!! The ride on the cargo plane was extremely nice, even nicer than the commercial flights because we had a lot of room to roam around. The plane…
Old chart
It was great to be able to go up into the pilots' cabin. It reminded me of a time in which we could do this in any commercial plane. I had been thinking about this moment since I read on the New York…
Changing room at CDC
Big day today!! We are flying to Antarctica, if the weather allows us, that is. Lots of excitement for everybody around here. I am writing this blog comfortable seating on a C-17 plane en route to…
My parka
Where was I? Oh, yes, the ECW equipment. We went to the Clothing Distribution Center (CDC) of the US Antarctic Program close to the airport. The goal was to get our Extreme Cold Weather gear to be…
Table cloth writing
I have been enjoying creating this blog. The organization of my thoughts of the day's adventures and the preparation of the videos and pictures to be posted help me organize the prized memories that…
Entrance to the CLothing Distribution Center
Today we went to get our Extreme Cold Weather gear at the Clothing Distribution Center (CDC), but before I tell you all about getting our parkas, boots and more, let me tell you how the previous…
Farmers market
Downtown Christchurch is busy all the time. I am amazed that so many stores and restaurants can survive in a city of this size. They all seem to be doing quite well. The city also feels very…
ChristChurch cathedral
Christchurch (Ôtautahi for the Maori) is an amazing city!! I have been enjoying the city and its surroundings for the past 48 hours and I have been very impressed. There is so much more to explore…
Luggage ticket
Finally in Christchurch! It took more than 30 hours of travel from Madison to this gorgeous city, and they all have worth it. Perhaps too many hours sitting down on an airplane or airport lounge, but…
My family before departure
The path to Antarctica has not always been flat and smooth. It has been challenging to plan at home, school and for trip requirements. People that know me say that planning is not my strength, so…
Flag for the expedition
Every expedition could have a flag. It is not a requirement, but those old pictures sure look great when there is a flag. At least that is what I think. I sent a request on the miscellaneous e-mail…
All to be packed
I am packing in the land of the Packers. A whirlpool has taken hold of the whole state and everything revolves around tonight's big game. Most everybody is excited about the possibility of waking up…