Déjà Vu: Ice II

Package Mail Exchange!

2011-07-13T00:00:00.000-07:00

To lift spirits and continue Pedro's legacy from last year, I organized a package mail exchange in July just after midwinter. As some people received mail on the medevac flight, it wasn't quite as exciting as last year, but with a little magic and a lot of generosity, karmic goodness and happiness did abound!

The packages pile up in my room!

Boxes galore!

Emily opens her box!

Ham, wine, glowsticks...can it get any better???

Josie picks up her box!

Zachary rifles through his loot!
With the exception of a few duds and some inappropriate pranks (this is McMurdo afterall) the package mail exchange was well received and appreicated by all!

Cake Break!

2011-07-10T00:00:00.000-07:00

In celebration of a few birthdays and to shake break time up from its usuall sweetness, the MET hosted Cake break. Nom, nom, nom!

Food dries out quickly here, so we kept the cakes nice and moist in plastic bags!

Toppings of choice: M&Ms, sprinkles, Butterfinger and Orea crumbles!

Amanda is excited for cake break!

Chocolate Cake with Vanilla Frosting and Sprinkles.

Yellow Cake with Chocolate Frosting and Sprinkles.

SPOONS!

Jack's "I hate birthdays and theme parties" top hat
from last year made the rounds this year too.
Here, Jonathan sports it for his June birthday.

Then Shawn Brown gets a turn for his birthday!

Larry sports his Marie Antoinette hoodie in support of cake break!

Cake for one, cake for all!

Nom, nom, nom!

Cynthina likes cake break too!

Gone South

2011-07-05T00:00:00.000-07:00

That's what happens in July; everything goes south. Hygiene lapses, spelling errors abound, narcolepsy sets in and people develop the ability to nap just about anywhere.

Todd snoozes.

Whoa Larry, what's up with that hair?

Toasted.

Sprawl...

Comfy couch!

VMF: 4th of July Celebration

2011-07-02T00:00:00.000-07:00

Like the carnivals of ol', the 4th of July Celebration at the VMF was complete with a chili cook-off, homemade ice cream, funnel cakes, corn dogs and games!

The chili cook-of contestants! Wendy samples them all!

Miss Amanda and her homemade chili!

CORNDOGS!

Poobaca with his infamous "name that poo" carnival game and festive attire.

Oh yeah...a Vat-O'-Cheetos. Dive in for prizes!

Forget bacon, it's the year of the Cheeto.

Bill pays tribute to Izzy.

Cotton Candy making machine!

Todd tatts up the locals like Lan...

and Anna B!

Ang tags Cynthia with a tattoo!

Shawn Brown!

Travis and his trailer of games!

Desiree and Me! Yay USA!

Auction items! Antarctic-made bowls by Zach Pettway.

My sparkle hat!

Wine, chocolate, lights...

snacks, liquor and more!

The Captain Morgan Spiced Rum went for $750.00...not kidding!

A VMF clock made from old pisten bully parts!

Jenn!

Bill tries to pin a knife on King George's 3rd heart while MC looks on.
In lieu of cash prizes and such, all of the auction money raised was donated to Izzy and John to help with lost wages and expenses related to the medevac. When it really matters, communities can surprise you.

Freshies and Mail in the middle of Winter!

2011-07-01T00:00:00.000-07:00

The upside of the medevac, besides our friend being able to get the medical attention needed in Christchurch, was the mail and freshies that came in on the flight!

There are a lot of things that could improve morale in McMurdo,
the awesomeness of fresh food is definitely one of them.

Emergency Medical Evacuation

2011-06-30T00:00:00.000-07:00

Aside from freezing to death, having to be medically evacuated from the continent (medevac) is probably the greatest fear of every winterover.

As the NSF Station Manager put it, "A Medevac is not a decision we take lightly nor is it a decision that can be made without consensus of key parties in medical and in the operational aspect at the NSF HQ. They pose an inherent risk at any time of year and especially during the winter season and are only considered when there is potential loss of life or limb."

Fleet Operations (the department in charge of maintaining the roads and moving snow around with heavy equipment) was tasked with preparing the runway for the C-17 to land and did so in only five days. Between the runway coming together quickly and a blessing from the weather gods, on June 30th, we had a successful medevac.

(I Drive Photo by Jerry MacGregor)

(I Drive Photo by Jerry MacGregor)

(I Drive Photo by Jerry MacGregor)

(I Drive Photo by Jerry MacGregor)

(I Drive Photo by Jerry MacGregor)
More information can be found in this Air Force article covering the medevac flight.

For the privacy of my fellow winterover, I won't go into details regarding the illness. The medevac was successful and my fellow winterover is set to receive the medical attention in New Zealand and will hopefully be on the road to recovery soon.

Today, more than ever, I am grateful for my own health and safety.

It's Freakin' COLD in Antarctica

2011-06-23T00:00:00.000-07:00

Sometimes it even hurts to breathe. That's when this fun mask comes out!

Remember - don't mess with me, I'm a total bad ass!

Don't Open Until Midwinter!

2011-06-22T00:00:00.000-07:00

Goodie boxes in Antarctica are always a treat, but even more so during the long winter months of no-outside-mail. Thanks to our dear friend Robyn, we had package mail packages to open for Valentines Day, Easter, Midwinter Dinner and, yet to come, the 4th of July. Thanks to my forgetful brain, the packages were out of sight and mind until exactly the right moment.

Kris goes right for the pink fuzzies!

Cedar gasps at all the loot!

Clad in hot pink part glasses with a handful of miniature
glow sticks, Kris is ready to shake his booty!

MC looks on in wonder.

Jen tries on the leopard dress!

A purple masked villain?

Cedar, Jen and MC bargain, discuss and rummage through the goodies.

Cedar sports a pink plastic rosary gangster-style.

Kris tries, but his "gangster" needs work.

Jen checks out the lotions!

Ahhh...THANKS for the treats Robyn!!!

Magical Midwinter

2011-06-17T00:00:00.000-07:00

Midwinter Dinner; the midpoint in the season, when, for one night, everything and everyone sparkles and shines. This year was no exception. Despite the rumored low-key theme of the event, the galley decorations and food were something out of an incredible dream.

I was again impressed by the time, effort and creativity put into every aspect of the evening. From ice sculptures and a snow sled bar, to a fully constructed replica of the inside of Scott's hut, history, present day and a timeless sense of adventure glowed softly under copper chandeliers and rope lights.

This year's theme incorporated all nations across the continent via canvas painted flags, place card trivia and snippets of historic information. Whether reading about the Koreans midwinter menu or Norwegian style ECW gear, I learned what my international predecessors went through on their journey, gained a deeper appreciation for the boundless of adventure and peered deeper into the depths of the human spirit.

While the struggles, explorations and triumphs of my own life have been vastly different than those of the early globe trotters, I felt a sense of self-respect for my part in the Antarctic experience. I followed my dream to the bottom of the world and observed the power of possibility, the result of perseverance and the realization of what some might have deemed impossible.

Maybe that's what gives midwinter it's sparkle.

An ice sculpture of The Discovery, made by Jerry MacGregor.

Details.

In memory of our dearly departed Ice Pier.

Ahhh the ambiance...

The tables looked lovely clad in burlap place mats,
ice sculpture candle holders and piles of volcanic rocks.

Scott's team reportedly carried several hundred pounds
of rocks with them on their journey back for sample purposes.

Historic and beautiful copper pipe, rope light chandeliers.

Kyle and Me!

Zachary enjoys the hors d'oeuvres.

Larry serves up the goodies.

Wendy & Desiree

Pete & Zachary

Desiree & Me

Mark, Michelle, Todd and Pete

Ice sculpture swan a la Brian.

Brian made an ice penguin too!

SALAD! With ALL the fixings!

Emily - The Green Goddess!

Pig roast!

Oink oink!

More delicious food!

Neil made a Gingerbread representation (1/30th scale) of Scott's Hut.

Moose pyramids with blown sugar flowers!

TRUFFLES!

Butterfly cheesecake cookie dessert!

Triple layer cake!

Heart shaped chocolate caramel bombs!

Josie (the baker) with her glorious dessert table and handmade reversible apron!

My place setting.

My plate!

My dessert plate!

Homemade ice cream!

The crowd dines well!

Good food for all!

Zachary checks out the menu.

Kyle and Kenny!

A closer view of our ice candle holders and the rocks!

Full house!

Happy Me!

Joseph & Larry!

Yay for friends!

Kenny & Me
With a full belly and a warm heart, I partied just enough before retiring to my room for a good night's sleep! Happy Midwinter!

Peek-a-Boo Moon

2011-06-16T00:00:00.000-07:00

As if witnessing the vast twinkling night sky with little light polution and austral auroras weren't enough, on the way to work today, I witnessed part of the lunar eclipse!

The June Apple

2011-06-06T00:00:00.000-07:00

There is a particular sugar that lingers on the tongue just waiting for that last precious bite of apple in June. Or at least I imagine there is. There is also a certain sweetness to the act of picking out, saving and waiting for the last possible moment to devour. This year's June apple was all it promised it would be: the apple of all apples, again.

If you remember from last season, apples in June are a precious commodity.

Getting Carnal: Hunters & Gatherers Party

2011-06-03T00:00:00.000-07:00

Whether airing a carnal desire or getting in touch with their inner caveman or woman, Scott Base played host to the Hunters and Gatherers party. While I wasn't feeling particularly like a hunter or gatherer, I opted to help with a little face painting!

Brian made an shrunken-head necklace out of dried apples!

Don't cross him, or you make end up on a string!

Justin wasn't going to the party either, but he was a
good sport and let me paint his face anyhow!

The mean and serious aboriginal side of Travis!

MC in pigtails? Exactly.

Larry went as his spirit animal - a Unicorn!
All he's mising is a glittery horn!

Oooga.

Chugga.

Dinning with the Kiwis

2011-06-02T00:00:00.000-07:00

For a night away from MacTown, and town for that matter, Thursday night "Dine with the Kiwis," is a great escape. On this particular Thursday, Me, Zachary, Amanda, Troy, Travis, Kelli, Cara, Brett and Jonathan climbed into the shuttle (driven by Grump) for an evening of delicious food, drinks and artificial fireside time.

Let the fun begin!

Mmmmm...dinner and wine!

Brett, Travis enjoy a nice MOA brew while Troy sips on
an L&P (New Zealand carbonated lemon water).

All smiles for picture time!

Inside the teeny, tiny Kiwi greenhouse.

I spy a little red tomato amongst all those green leaves!

Little sprouting plants!

The outside of the teeny, tiny Kiwi greenhouse.

MOA! New Zealand brewed beer - ANTARCTIC EDITION!

And a reminder of what happens at Scott Base to rowdy Americans!

The Glass is Half Full as long as There's Wine in it

2011-05-21T00:00:00.000-07:00

To me, it felt strange having the wine tasting so late in the season. My first winter, the wine tasting was the first big event of the season and a really nice introduction to my fellow winterovers. This year, the first event of the season was the fashion show, and that wasn't until the end of April. And I definitely feel a difference in the degree to which the crew this season has become a community.

In my mind, it still hasn't...perhaps midwinter will finally bring everyone together. Until then, I'll just have to enjoy what I can and a night out at the library was most enjoyable.

Victoria from Scott Bass plays some mellow guitar.

Cheers from Desiree!

Kelli and Janette along with John, DJ and Craig mingle and chat.

A divine spread of delectable treats from the Galley.

Along with homemade cheese from our Television Man John.

Jen serves her wine with a smile!

Ang enlightens us on one of the reds.

Brian and Larry share a laugh.

Zachary and I pose for a "who's got hot glasses" shot.

Desiree and Craig!

Justin sings us a song or two.

After tasting all the wines, everything starts to blur.

Me and Brian! We also have hot glasses!

Joseph and Larry.
Little did they know, their night was just beginning.

A good evening with good people and pretty decent wine too!

"Picnic in the Park" at the Greenhouse

2011-05-20T00:00:00.000-07:00

The greenhouse has a new ongoing event called "Picnic in the Park." The Galley (or in this case, Emily) makes you a sack lunch, or you can get your own food from and take it up to the greenhouse. Recreation even coordinated shuttles to drive people up so we can all maximize our time amongst the plants.

I signed up for Friday and had picnic lunch with Larry, Joseph, Gareth, Kyle and Emily. It was delightful.

Tomatoes...

lovely tomatoes.

Emily, this year's green house technician.

A jalapeño flower!

Face toward the light, smile on.

Nasturtium leaves - nice and peppery.

The Lunch Bunch: Gareth, Kyle and Larry.

The underside of nasturtiums.

Emily bags the harvest.

Grow plants grow!

Sprouting herbs!

Corn flowers!

Kyle certainly enjoys the greenhouse!

BIG beautiful green leaves!

Cucumber!

A cucumber flower!

Kyle relaxes in the comfy chair.

Are you thinking what I'm thinking? Fried green tomatoes.

Jalapeños!

Larry lounges in the hammock.

As does Joseph.

Emily harvests some leaves.

Green, leafy heaven.

Kale.

Flowering Bok Choy.

I feel like this sometimes...dried up and barren.

Ahhh...88ºF!

Emily makes me smile.

Let There Be Light

2011-05-15T00:00:00.000-07:00

As we muddle through the dark winter months, light therapy is an important part of self-care here at McMurdo. Previously the Green House was the sole source of mood enhancing, good-for-your-soul light, and while it is also nice and humid there, it's somewhat out of the way of my regular comings and goings around town. This year, however, the Light Room has been set up in room 101 of 155, which happens to be just around the corner and down the hall from my winter room.

When it was first set up and opened to the community, the room was dingy and sterile, as are the dorm rooms here. I helped Shandra and Sean clean and organize the room. Shandra brought some tapestries and I made a few pillows out of skua fabric. With those few upgrades, the Light Room is rather enjoyable.

Skua fabric pillows.

One for this chair...

and one for the couch.

Light, comfort...

color, leisure...

tranquility and greenery.
What a nice place to spend some time reading and relaxing!

Rockin' the Rock

2011-05-14T00:00:00.000-07:00

When given the opportunity to rock out to LIVE bands in Antarctica, it's wise to go all out. To show my full support and undying love for music and live bands, I chose to dress the part.

What a punk!

Party People!

Gallaghers!

Tears For Piers!

Rockin' the mic and those Pink Floyd pants!

Best song of the night: "We Care A Lot"!!!

Brian serves the fans!

Grrrrrrr!

Z-money aka Zachary!

Hangin' with Kelli!

Chillin' with Kenny!

Gracie is just about as punk as I am.

This is our angry face! Well Emily looks angry at least!

And I rocked my socks off. All the way baby!

Swimmers Ear, without the Swimming

2011-05-05T00:00:00.000-07:00

Antarctica likes to destroy my sinuses and ear canals. I'm currently battling the dry version of "swimmers ear" which HURTS! And I've had a fever for three-days! A mild one, 99.7, yet still not fun. What was really nice though, was this beautiful get well gift bag that my friends left outside my door...

Thanks friends!

A Dancing Penguin from Skua

2011-05-03T00:00:00.000-07:00

After adding some new batteries to this little guy, I had a Dancing Penguin. He starts up pressing his nose and listens to my music while dancing and flapping his wings (quite cute). Periodically, his belly will light up with various patterns that indicate his "mood" which includes: hungry for more music, happy, sad, and sick (in need of more music). I can also press his nose again as any of these moods are displayed and he will reply with various chirps, songs and dance moves. And this, my friends, is how winterovers stay entertained.

Luckily, the instruction booklet was still taped to his foot, otherwise rather
than cute and entertaining, he might have been annoying and maddening.

Belly lights!

Dance penguin dance!

Who's That Knocking at my Door?

2011-05-02T00:00:00.000-07:00

Well, in the event of an after-hours emergency or MCI (Mass Causality Incident), it would be the Doorknockers knocking on my door. As part of the EOC, we recruit volunteers to be Doorknockers - who, through a very simple and overly complicated system, knock on each door in the dorms to notify people of an emergency.

With three dorms open during winter (208, 209 and 155), that is a lot of doors to knock on. Which is why, Doorknockers get to have their very own little wooden handles to knock on all the doors. Because the knockers from previous years have gone missing, it was my assignment to coordinate the creation of new knockers!

With the help of old broom handles from Mike at the Firehouse and the clever and accommodating Kevin of the Carp Shop, we now have 18 new Doorknocker knockers.

Ta Da! Aren't they spiffy?

Humidity?

2011-05-01T00:00:00.000-07:00

Despite the usual it's-so-dry-my-nose-is-bleeding-again climate of Antarctica, the open water has brought moisture to McMurdo. Such moisture is often a welcome change in a desert, however, here it makes for slippery surfaces, deeper more bitter cold and some really interesting ice formations on just about everything.

In lieu of the treachery, the ice is shockingly beautiful. Everything is covered, even the sides of buildings, the dirt, the doors, everything. It reminds me of the movie, "The Ice Storm" and when the wind is calm, I walk softly so as not to disturb the silence and sparkling gorgeousness of a peaceful moment.

Stalkers

2011-04-29T00:00:00.000-07:00

As I was walking back to work one afternoon after lunch, I came to the main intersection in town and stopped by the stop sign. The IT-28 loader was backing out of 120, and I didn't like the idea of being flattened.

And so I waited, the loader backed up the hill and then stopped. The driver, very slowly, intently and eerily gave me the "I see you" hand signal. I signaled back that I saw him and crossed the road. But man, the way he gave that signal stayed with me.

Actually the driver turned out to be my coworker Gareth, who was intentionally being creepy, and so I've taken to calling him my stalker. So he left me this lovely present on my desk:

Awesome. And Joseph has taken to stalking me too. Not only did Joseph do just about the same thing in the loader on another day, but also lapped me in the intersection while driving the loader. Crazy boys.

I guess the moral of the story here is, there's always someone watching, and in this case, I'm glad it was the food monkey boys instead of aliens.

Smoothie Break!

2011-04-28T00:00:00.000-07:00

Once a month during the winter, the MET (Mapcon Editing Team - of which I am a part) hosts a smoothie break. Larry, Shandra and I gather the ingredients of yogurt, ice, fruit, frozen bananas we've saved from the last freshies of February. And for a brief moment during winter, we can all pretend we're at the beach sipping our fruity concoction with the sun kissing our cheeks...

What time is it?
Smoothie Break Time!

Shandra prepares for the hoards of fruit-loving winterovers.

We got ice and yogurt from the Galley.

And used strawberry applesauce left over from
flight meals to sweeten the tartness of the yogurt.

I put a brilliantly beautiful purple fake flower on the table and
put out some dried Hibiscus flowers from Trader Joes to share.

Go blender go!

Mmmmmmmm...smoothie.

Jonathan, Cedar and Gareth partake in some fruity deliciousness.

Gareth and Joseph add a little Passion Fruit Squeeze to the mix.

Mark and Zachary try to describe the complex and delectable
taste while Amanda smiles away in the background.

Life is short. Antarctica is cold. Smoothies are good.

Off-Continent Communications Down!

2011-04-26T00:00:00.000-07:00

A nightmare come true! From Tuesday, April 26th until Wednesday May 4th, all off-continent communications were down!!! Quite a few people went through some serious internet withdrawal. Thankfully, peer counselors were available to help us cope!

GASP!

However, thanks to the BBC, we were still able to watch the Royal Wedding!

Quite a nice picture I'd say!

Waiting for the kiss on the balcony of Buckingham Palace!

The Yellow Queen!

And THE KISS!

I even wore a fancy hat on the way over to Shane and Larissa's!

Vitamins

2011-04-25T00:00:00.000-07:00

I need a lot to make up for the lack of sunshine and fresh food!

EcoGreen Multi with Kelp, B-125, Omega-3, Essential Enzymes, Glucosamine, Calcium, Energy Support Formula and Vitamin D!

Easter Mischief

2011-04-24T00:00:00.000-07:00

Despite popular opinion, I have nothing to do with the Easter Mischief in McMurdo. I do however, make a darn convincing bunny.

With different colored, deco-nails!

I might know a secret or two...

But I'll never tell...GRRRRRR!

I just LOVE my Easter Basket! Thanks Easter Bunny!

And for Easter Brunch, I got all dressed up!

And Robyn sent us an Easter Box of Awesome Goodies to open!

MC is feeling greedy!

Kelli is REALLY excited!

Goodies!!!

A very special potato head for MC!

Flowers and joy galore!

Happy Friends! (MC, Me, Jenn, Kris and Kelli!)
Thanks Robyn! We love and miss you!!! XOXO

A Message from The Outside!

2011-04-22T00:00:00.000-07:00

I got a text message on my pager from Sarah Melson!!! SQUEEEEE!!!

Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Training

2011-04-21T00:00:00.000-07:00

Once a month, the EOC meets for training. Today was that day. We met down in B165 and went through an emergency training exercise. We use the FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) system for emergency management. I fulfill Emergency Support Function #15: Public Affairs & Communications.

B165 with a beautiful view of the moon and the American Flag!
The EOC is one of my favorite activities, as I get to prepare and participate in preparations for emergencies, which, on the ice, is quite different from anywhere else in the world. Back home in the states, one state can easily go to the surrounding states for assistance or resources, or nationally, or internationally. Here, we're pretty much on our own. Which also means, that what might be considered a lesser emergency back home, could be catastrophic here, if not handled properly.

The EOC Core Team, preparing, discussing, saving your life.

Searching through the map archive...

and more.

Jenn tests the comms equipment.
Being a part of the EOC and going through the training exercises gives me a greater appreciation for the importance and value of each and every person on station, as well as a broader view of what it really means to live in isolation, in Antarctica, in the winter. And it feels good to know we're in good hands should our good fortune ever run out.

The Misty Mountain

2011-04-17T00:00:00.000-07:00

Better known in McMurdo as Observation Hill.

McMurdo Top Model Fashion Show

2011-04-16T00:00:00.000-07:00

Even at the bottom of the world, there are catwalks, runways and walk-offs. The only thing we're missing is tiny cell phones and David Bowie, though I expect he'll show up via space craft at any moment.

I went as Petra Rosiere, pink is SO the new black.

Ouuu a model: Mel-A(hhh)-Nie.

Tasty snacks provided by the ever-in-demand Galley Chefs!

Dustin Jolan and Jen are ready for a night on the town!

Molly and Brooks pour a bit of the bubbly.

Here they come! Move it, shake it, make it!
Travis in the lead, followed by Kelli and Brett.

Hot Hot Hot!
Jamie, Cara and Kelli are burnin' up the red carpet!

Time for our close up!

Gracie, ravishing in print, ready to paw at the press!

Zombie attack! Because even zombies have fashion sense.

The bubbly runneth over and floweth freely!

Kelli dances through the crowd in PINK cowboy boots!

Emily, the light of the world, aka Fifi Chamonix,
clad in a Scott Tent as Roy Bean the Body Guard protects her.

From the far North, Brian Tamm and his classy kilt!

Fashionistas! (Kelli, Me, Model, Cara and Emily)

Even MC was shiny!

Cathy strikes a pose!

The Fabulous Baker Boys - Kris, Brian, Kenny and Joseph.

Lovely Ladies of the Vine: Janette and Cynthia.

Our illustrious judges, Roy Bean, Astrid Zeta and Fifi Chamonix.

Fashion Show Grab Bag!

Glam treats included bling bling jewelry and
model-sized snack packs of expired cheetos!

A final word from our sponsors!

McMurdo Top Model Fashion Website (More Photos and Videos).

New Toothbrush Day!

2011-04-15T00:00:00.000-07:00

As you can see...there's not much else on the calendar.

Meet the toothbrush that WAS and the toothbrush that IS.

In Antarctica, Everyone Shovels Snow

2011-04-14T00:00:00.000-07:00

And today, I shoveled the steps leading up to B140!

Good thing I was wearing my new furry red Skua hat!

The BEFORE shot, with snow blown and piled high.

Shoveling in the snow!

Poetic Interlude

Shoveling Snow with Buddha by Billy Collins

In the usual iconography of the temple or the local Wok
you would never see him doing such a thing,
tossing the dry snow over a mountain
of his bare, round shoulder,
his hair tied in a knot,
a model of concentration.

Sitting is more his speed, if that is the word
for what he does, or does not do.

Even the season is wrong for him.
In all his manifestations, is it not warm or slightly humid?
Is this not implied by his serene expression,
that smile so wide it wraps itself around the waist of the universe?

But here we are, working our way down the driveway,
one shovelful at a time.
We toss the light powder into the clear air.
We feel the cold mist on our faces.
And with every heave we disappear
and become lost to each other
in these sudden clouds of our own making,
these fountain-bursts of snow.

This is so much better than a sermon in church,
I say out loud, but Buddha keeps on shoveling.
This is the true religion, the religion of snow,
and sunlight and winter geese barking in the sky,
I say, but he is too busy to hear me.

He has thrown himself into shoveling snow
as if it were the purpose of existence,
as if the sign of a perfect life were a clear driveway
you could back the car down easily
and drive off into the vanities of the world
with a broken heater fan and a song on the radio.

All morning long we work side by side,
me with my commentary
and he inside his generous pocket of silence,
until the hour is nearly noon
and the snow is piled high all around us;
then, I hear him speak.

After this, he asks,
can we go inside and play cards?

Certainly, I reply, and I will heat some milk
and bring cups of hot chocolate to the table
while you shuffle the deck.
and our boots stand dripping by the door.

Aaah, says the Buddha, lifting his eyes
and leaning for a moment on his shovel
before he drives the thin blade again
deep into the glittering white snow.

Ta da! Nice and clear...for the next hour or so anyway.

And while shoveling, I had a nice view of
the office window...a light in the darkness.

The Magic of Snow!

2011-04-13T00:00:00.001-07:00

Believe it or not, but it's often too cold here to snow. So when it does snow, it's just like those beautiful, quiet late-night winter snows back home and everything becomes magical and sparkly.

Happiness is a snow covered pickle.

My old stomping grounds...

Electrical Supply!

The snow even sticks to the buildings!

Snow covered cargo!

Galley back entrance.

Window snow formations!

So pretty!

Clever Display, Fashion is on the Way!

2011-04-12T00:00:00.000-07:00

In a place where not much changes, changes are often noticed, and, grately appreicated. This week, in preparation for the upcoming McMurdo TopModel Fashion Show, Cara created a lovely, witty and interactive display in the store window.

Tick Tock...Don't Stop!

2011-04-11T00:00:00.000-07:00

A lot of my most useful items break, disintegrate or wear out quickly on the Ice. Just recently, my watch, which doubles as my alarm clock, decided to fall apart. Luckily, all it took was a generous glop of superglue to put it back together again. WHEW!

The "Oh No!" Moment

Fixed!

The View

2011-04-10T00:00:00.000-07:00

As a winterover, or even a typical Antarctican, it's hard not to stop and stare at the view on a daily basis. In a land of nothing, there sure is a lot to look at. The sky is endless, the mountains grand, the amazement of still having open water and on and on and on.

Snow covered, winterized vehicles in the cargo yard.

The Antannae of Arrival Heights.

Swirly, blowing snow.

Clouds!

NASA Golf ball, weather observation station against a sunlit sky.

For White Mountains Majesty!

A Steamy Sunset over Hut Ridge.

A closer look.

A wider view.

Look at all those colors!

Gorgeous!

All Hail the Safety Toga

2011-04-06T00:00:00.000-07:00

In Antarctica, safety comes first because just about everything is trying to kill you. Every day, we have toolbox safety meetings that address a variety of issues from forklift safety to ergonomics. As the season progresses, the safety meetings can begin to sound like a bunch of sounds slurred together rather than discernible words.

For my week of presenting safety topics I tried to spice it up a bit with the Safety Toga and this incredible safety rap video.

Toga! Toga! Toga!

So very awake.

Kiwis Stitch-n-Bitch Too

2011-04-05T00:00:00.000-07:00

It's true, Kiwis stitch-n-bitch too, and this Tuesday, they invited us over to do our bitchin' and stitchin' by the light and comfort of their lovely fireplace. We sipped wine, swapped celebrity crush stories, chatted about biomimicry and crafted up a storm.

Karen, Shandra and Jana smile the evening away.

Ang is crocheting a hat!

Melanie works on some cross-stitch while
Lan knits a square for the charity quilt.

Thanks to Jana for inviting us over, to Shandra for
organizing and to Melanie for driving the shuttle!

Melanie!

Shandra!

Karen!

Ang!

Lan!

Me!

The Coffee House is OPEN

2011-04-04T00:00:00.000-07:00

This.is.incredibly.exciting.news! Last winter, the Coffee House was closed for the season, although we had Coffee Bar at Gallagher's. It's exciting news for those of us that are less enthused by the bar scene and more excited about chill ski-lodge, movie-watching, game-playing, coffee-sipping comfort. Yay!

Shawn is waited on by Cara and Brett (barista in training).

'Tis the Season of Beautiful Skies

2011-04-03T00:00:00.000-07:00

And rainbow swirl clouds!

Chelsea Lou Who Whoville Hat

2011-04-02T00:00:00.000-07:00

That's right. Here in Whoville, it helps to have a fabulously funky hat. And while my purple fleece hat is my favorite (it has unbelievably perfect and amazing ear coverage), I like to mix it up. So I made myself this one:

Skua Party!

2011-04-01T12:00:00.000-07:00

Once a season, or when it really needs to be done, Waste hosts a Skua party. Lucky volunteers get to sort through triwall boxes full of items people have put into Skua. In retrospect, this is probably the worst possible job for me, because I can darn near find a use for just about anything. So, as I sorted through bags and boxes of treasure separating out for myself what I might use, I asked myself for everything else if someone else might use it. All in all we got through the necessary boxes and were able to help waste separate out a lot of unwanted crap. The reward, naturally, is the Skua treasures I found!

The e-mail.

SKUA PARTY! Justin and Dan up front, comparing jewels!

My Skua Treasure Bag!
Gems include a fake crow, an Indian pillow, a bamboo box,
fake leaves, running shoes, sparkly costume tiaras,
a big-ol'-ball-o'-yarn, stationary and some clothes!
SCORE!

Skua'd fake grapes!
Washed and nicely displayed in a bowl in my room.

A sparkly snowflake!
My eye still has a gleam for anything sparkly!

A sarong that I used to cover one of my lights on the ceiling of my room.

Doesn't it look nice?

Orange!

2011-03-31T00:00:00.000-07:00

Bohemian Heaven: My Winter Room

2011-03-27T00:00:00.000-07:00

After gathering a few remaining skua treasures and getting the last of the lights up, my winter room is finally done. I'm calling it Bohemian Heaven.

Care to take a tour?

Chichi and the Electric Car

2011-03-25T00:00:00.000-07:00

It's a bird...it's a plane...it's a shiney new USAP Electric Car! We have two new toys on station. Every department will have the oppourtunity to use and test them out. They're bright cherry red with that certain spark!

Mainly, the electric vehicles will be used for running smaller, one to two person errands as the cargo limit is fairly low (1100 lbs). The batteries are underneath the car, which helps keep with stability, but they still seem like they might blow/tip over easily to me. I got to drive one during training! It definitely felt like a little clown car and didn't corner well. I only drove maybe 10-15mph but it sure felt zippy. And the soundtrack I envisioned for my little adventure was the Wicked Witch of the West theme.

Shiney and Red, here it is, one of our new Electric Cars.

Chichi and the Electric Car!

The e-ride.

Happy Driver!

The cab.

Yay for sustainable energy!

A view of the back.

The back cargo area.

And finally, the plugs, one for charging and one to keep the batteries warm.

Smoothie Break

2011-03-24T00:00:00.000-07:00

Once a month, the MET (Mapcon Editing Team), of which I am a part this season, holds three-o'clock smoothie break up in B140. We stash away fruit and bananas in our freezers and get yogurt and honey from the galley.

My smoothie cup after the break was so pretty. I thought it might dry nicely as they do here with our lack of humidity, so I left it overnight. And then took this beautiful photo:

And then I turned the cup into a sun-flower for our window...

It's the simple things.

The Moon and Pink Mountains Majesty

2011-03-23T00:00:00.000-07:00

I am blessed to have an office with a view this winter. And what a view this morning! The Royal Society Mountains were ablaze with hot pink, and the moon. Ahhh...the moon!

Island in the Clouds

2011-03-19T00:00:00.000-07:00

Many an interesting cloud formation and weather phenomena has been appearing around station due to all the open water. This is the view from Hut 10 had a fog/cloud layer, which I've heard is actually ice crystals hanging over the water and just below the mountains. At sunset it was beautiful.

Dorm-Diving at the End of the World

2011-03-18T00:00:00.000-07:00

It felt like the end of the world. Zachary and I walked through the empty (some unheated without lights or power) dorms to see if the departed summer folks had left anything worth saving.

While somewhat of an adventure for the Skua-minded, dorm-diving is still erie. It has the atmosphere of Armageddon. We were the last remaining survivors on the hunt for supplies and evidence of former human life. The unheated dorms with no lights were the most creepy - thankfully, Zachary came prepared with his flashlight, but we kept giving ourselves a fright with unexpected reflections and slowly closing creeking doors.

In the end, all was well, and we made out with some pretty good pirate booty too!

Zachary with his haute-pink-firefighting-hat!

Zachary and his booty!

My booty!

Carrying all the booty back to his dorm room!

Rust Water

2011-03-17T00:00:00.000-07:00

This is the disgusting rust water that came out of the gunky-who-knows-when-it-was-last-cleaned water cooler up in B140.

Ewwwww!

Shawn explains the filter system and how it needs to be cleaned.
Thanks to Shawn, the water now is crystal clear water. Which is nice, as the regular water to our building has been broken and/or frozen for the past two days! So much for my dream of working in a building with running water and a bathroom! At least we still have heat! Nah...I know that people are working on the problem, it's just rather inconvenient to put all my gear on and go to other buildings to use the restroom or get drinking water. And still, I have it much better than some!

Down by the Sea

2011-03-16T00:00:00.000-07:00

Having the opportunity to go down by the sea and snap a few pictures, I did.

The Royal Society Mountains.
I really love the composition of this photo:
lots of clouds, far-off snowy mountains with
blue sky and a blue thin layer of new ice with open water.
So many different blues in one picture!

Royals on the left, Hut Point on the right. Lovely.
(*Click on the photo to see a larger version!*)

A lone Adelie penguin down by the sea...

Right?

Women of Winter

2011-03-13T00:00:00.000-08:00

A Woman's Place is in Antarctica. Or anywhere else she darn well wants to be for that matter! And every year at the beginning of the Winter season, we Women of Antarctica get together for a little meet-n-greet. Shandra, Cathy and I planned on put on the event this year.

This year, I made a nice log book for us to pass on to future
Women of Antarctica, so we can record our legacy.

The book already has a nice collection of signatures!

Shandra works on cutting up all the appetizers.

While Cathy arranges yummy bites on pretty platters.

Delicious and tasty punch - one with a little bubbly, one with out!

So pretty! I'm sure appreciating the freshies while they're still around.

To die for! Hot cheesy artichoke dip with banana peppers.

Just a nice afternoon of chit chat.

Jenn checks out the bookmarks.

Mingle ladies mingle.

Janette and Cynthia aka Rhyme and Reason.

Quite a nice crowd.

Molly, Gracie and Jamie are all smiles.

Jenn and Kelli take a moment to reflect on some powerful women quotes!

On Your Shamrocks, Get Set, Shuffle

2011-03-12T00:00:00.000-08:00

On the Saturday of the first two-day weekend of Winter, I volunteered for registration duties for the 5K Shamrock Shuffle. Registration, as well as the start and finish of the race began at the Chapel. The course went up to the main intersection, down along the road in front of B155, the Firehouse and the BFC all the way up to the Scott Base sign at the top of the hill and back down to the Chapel.

It was nice to see people dressed up in costumes and out enjoying a beautiful, relatively low-wind morning. I was glad to be playing a small part of the fun!

The Chapel of Snows.

Keri ran registration with me and was a superior orange slicer!

Oh yeah! Antarctic Racing Series!

Gracie in the green.

This is what Clay looks like before 10a.m.

Cathy puts on her number.

Kelli got all decked out!

Those are some green girls!

Justin brought the coffee - a la "Starbucks" (aka The Coffee House).

Kelli's booty is ready to run!

Shamrock bling!

Terry's ready to run away from it all!

And thanks to Molly, the race announcer: "On Your Shamrocks..."

"Get Set..."

"SHUFFLE"!!!

And, I got a lovely, sparkling shamrock card from Gracie for volunteering!
Good times in McMurdo, good times.

The MET

2011-03-10T00:00:00.000-08:00

Larry and I are the two Inventory Control Specialists up in the MET (MAPCON Editing Team). We have cozy, semi-heated cubicles, warm decorations and a view out of one of the only windows on the second floor of B140.

Larry and his lovely corner of the loft.

Our view!

My desk! Notice my nice lights (that I got for Xmas) my beautiful
Italian calendar, my mail hung up to remind me of my lovely
friends, and my plethora of supplements (vitamins and such!).

A glorious fake tree with more lights from Xmas.
It's a very nice place to work, especially with running water, my hot water pot and a bathroom in the building. I'm still adjusting to a 'desk job' and sitting all day, but I've got my strech-breaks programmed into my computer calendar. And I've got my headphones, which help make the mind-numbing paperwork processing more interesting.

Larry and I put everything from paperclips to Jello to drill kits and motors in to inventory from what was received on the supply vessel. And often, there are mysteries to be solved. I am SO happy to be working with him this winter!

Last Flight Out

2011-03-05T00:00:00.000-08:00

Having spent the entire Summer season in Antarctica before my first Winter, when it came time for that last plane to leave, I wasn't sure what to expect. As you may recall, I was somewhat expecting a profound sense of isolation. As it turned out, it was one of the most interesting, stable and community involved times of my life.

It is interesting to note the difference in my expectations for this Winter. Like most winterovers, I was somewhat relieved to be settling in with the final crew. I am more than ready to wrap a security blanket of darkness and solidity around my shoulders and hunker down into my own little winter world.

Still, this Winter holds it's own possibilities, mysteries and new experiences. And that is definitely something worth toasting.

At 13:30, the Winter crew gathers at the Chalet
to sip some bubbly and wave goodbye to the
final flight out of McMurdo for the next six months.

The NSF Station Representative gives the toast.

Shandra pours and hands out the champagne.

Fellow winterovers, awaiting a visual of the plane.

Justin and Jen sippin' on the bubbly.

Jenn - nervous? excited? or just practicing her penguin puff up?

Clay, whose smile tells us he's quite happy that some people aren't wintering.

Janette. Doesn't she make carhartts look so ski-lodge-chique?

Ahhh yes, me with my Wookie gloves (Beaver)
that Bamma leaves me for the winter.
Nothing goes so well with champagne than Wookie.

Kris rocks the Jackie-O glasses.

Kelli with those sassy safety
glasses that we all know and love.

"Oh really," Larry seems to say.

No wonder Shandra volunteered to pour!

Cathy, Ryan and Brooks looking chill.

Sean and DJ clad in brown are mellow dudes about the town.

Todd, Jonathan and A-Con.

Zachary wonders exactly what he might be getting into
while Larry stands by amused by it all.

Troy and Amanda are about to lose it...already!

Cara got a heads-up fashion tip on proper
"Last Flight" attire from the aliens last night.

Karen, Keri and Kris are excited for summer people to leave!

Poo-Baca is already off his rocker.

Bye Bye plane!

Larry takes a moment to reflect and raises a glass to Winter!

And now...we're in the capable hands of these folks.

Welcome to Winter.

A Passion Fruit Experience

2011-03-04T00:00:00.000-08:00

As we enjoy the last of the freshies, Larry introduces me to the passion fruit.

Mmmmm...brown and wrinkly.

It's like slicing into a tiny brain!

Ewwww! And frog-egg like pulp with black seeds!
Despite the look and texture, the passion fruits smelled amazing. I didn't much care for the taste - they were sour and slimy and then crunchy. But I must say, I do appreciate the passion fruit, guava juice in the galley. And I tried something new!

Larry, however, loves them!

I did like how the empty shells looked.

The shells now live in a decorative nest up in the office.

Dinner at Scott Base

2011-03-03T00:00:00.000-08:00

On Thursday, I received a special invitation to Scott Base for dinner to meet Jana, a lovely Czech-Kiwi, with whom, I will be sharing the winter. The evening included greenhouse collaboration, a delicious Indian meal, hokey-poky ice cream (YUMM!!), marinating by the fire, spectacular views, penguins, friends, feathers, rat tails, scary stories and fun for all.

DELICIOUS! Spinach Saag with Tofu, Tandoori Chicken and
Indian Yogurt and Cabbage Salad all la Chef Lance!

Sully was the first to be feathered!

Then Mel...

and Kory

and Jana (what a pretty blue!)

and finally, Lance, who got a feather rat tail!

Jana and Mel looking at all the feathers and color choices.

Emily and Lance talk about hydroponics for growing greens during the winter.

An amazing view of the permanent (or not so permanent) ice shelf.

Steam coming off of the open water as the setting
sun casts a low and lovely glowing light.

Mel and Jana share some scary stories.

They've got Kori and Sully wide eyed and on the edge of their seats!
What a nice toasty fire!

The sun is a settin'.

Penguins frolic and squawk out by the remaining pressure ridges.

Picturesque Antarctica. The perfect end to the perfect night!

Holes! Already! Gah!

2011-03-02T00:00:00.000-08:00

I've been on continent exactly 16 days
and Antarctica is already causing holes!

My beloved Keen boots received some TLC
during my library shift and got all sewed up!

I Get By with a Little Help from my Friends

2011-03-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

The room is progressing. I have a bit of color on the walls, most of the furniture in place and some boxes unpacked. Unfortunately my bed has been like sleeping in a spoon. MC was kind enough to give me the newer, thicker extra mattresses from his room and I got a piece of plywood to remedy the spoon effect. But I couldn't have done it all without the help of my friends.

Emily and Kelli help me duct tape the twin mattresses together.

A Few Last Precious Pieces of Mail

2011-02-28T00:00:00.000-08:00

As part of my duties in the MET (MAPCON EDITING TEAM) this year, I get to be an official appointed military postal clerk. Sweet! This means that I get to hand out the last precious pieces of letter and package mail to a few lucky winterovers.

My special laminated identification card!

Don't I look official?

I move packages from here to there. And there to here.

It's quite exciting to hand over such a gem,
especially to unexpectant recipients!

Larry likes to help too! We are the epitome of friendly postal clerks!

I got several unexpected pieces of mail which included a valentine and some decorative hair feathers from Robyn, a San Diego post card from Rebexy, an art-Opening announcement from my step-mom Jean's art-opening in Boulder (you can go see her art for me at Twig on Pearl Street (1831 Pearl Street, Boulder), and finally, a package from Rory that included a bag of Hershey's Almond Kisses and a stellar scope for identifying constellations in the Southern Hemisphere. THANK YOU ALL for making me feel so loved and special!

The Norwegians

2011-02-27T00:00:00.000-08:00

Recently a Norwegian yacht was bobbing about in the bay. Supposedly they were attempting to follow in the footsteps of Roald Amundsen by making a trip to the South Pole. Normally, the McMurdo South Pole Traverse, which takes about two months (1600 miles round trip from McMurdo to the South Pole) involves a whole caravan of sleeping quarters, mechanics, fuel and supplies to keep the station in operation for the next year. But these Norwegians were attempting to make it on ATVs, in February - nearly WINTER. Not the best choice. Anyhow, of the five members of the crew, three died (in the yacht in the Ross Sea, with reports of up to 30 Foot Swells. We had a Condition 2 storm on Ross Island).

The Norwegian ATVs, so named "Endurance" after Amundsen's expedition.

Here are a few links to news articles on the Norwegians:

"Norwegian Adventurers Missing in Ross Sea"

"Three Die in 'Viking' Yacht off Antarctica"

"Charges Filed Against Captain of Failed Polar Expedition"

Regardless of whatever the actual circumstances of the situation, level of preparedness and the failure of the polar expedition, it's sad that three people lost their lives.

Open Water all the Way Over to Scott Base

2011-02-26T00:00:00.000-08:00

The massive amount of open water continues to break up the ice shelf.

Kelli takes a walk down the plank to get a better look.

Looks serene right? Tropical even? Think again.
It was wicked wicked cold out and windy as hell.

Which is exactly why I bundled up to walk the plank!

Most of the Pressure Ridges near Scott Base have melted,
these remain, along with penguins and seals.

Kelli against Mt. Terror.

Erebus on the left, Terror on the right.
Visible also is the transition and the beginning
of the road to Pegasus Airfield.

Panoramic view of Mt. Erebus, the transition and
the road leading to Pegasus Airfield.

Hut Point and Open Water Videos

2011-02-25T00:00:00.002-08:00

This year, I'm making and effort to take and upload more short videos.

Here are few of Hut Point and open water.

In this video, you can see little chunks of ice floating in the
bay and two Adelie penguins hanging out at the base of Hut Point.

Standing on the base of Hut Ridge and looking out, one would normally
only see ice for miles and miles. The channel usually is opened up by the
Icebreaker for the supply vessel to come in. This season, however,
there is an abundance of open water, with crashing waves even.
Listen to the sound too - there aren't many sounds in Antarctica
other than wind, which of course you can also hear on the video!

Winterover Survival Training

2011-02-25T00:00:00.001-08:00

At the beginning of each winter season, we winterovers are required to complete The Push Course (aka Winterover Survival Training). From recognizing frostnip and frostbite to building a wind wall out of snow bricks and learning to set up a tent in a wind storm, we learn how to survive Antarctia. Remember, "Antarctica is always trying to kill you."

Winterover Survival Training (WOST) is held in the
Science Support Center (SSC).

Kelli is our instructor. She's kind of a badass.
And we graduated from BHS together! Way back in '96.

Kelli gives us the low-down on how to tell which is the front and back
of the tent and tricks for setting up in a wicked wind storm.

There are a few different kinds of tents; we got to practice with all of them.

Look! I'm tying a trucker's knot to secure the
tent to the snow using a Dead Man's anchor.

Here we're learning how to cut snow blocks.

And discussing the best way to construct our wind wall.

Brooks was a little sleepy (and he already knows all this -
he's a badass like Kelli) so he decided to snack on some sunshine.

Here I am priming the fuel can.

And connecting the camp stove to the fuel can, which,
as you can see by my tongue, requires a great deal of concentration.

Lighter ready!

Me Chichi! I make fire!
This is probably the only time I will see an actual fire flame
all season. Otherwise, they have a nice crakling virtual fire
playing on channel 4 on the T.V. on occasion.

And that kids, is how you survive in Antarctica.

Open Water, Ice and Penguins...Oh My!

2011-02-24T00:00:00.000-08:00

After work, in the gloriousness of little wind and still present sunshine, I decided to walk down to Hut Point and take in the open water. Last year, there was a fair amount of open water around Hut Point and in the channell, but this year is unbelievable. Not only is there open water in entire bay, but all the way over to Scott Base and all around Hut Point, streching way out into the Ross Sea.

I could hear the surf crash at Hut Point. Take a look:

Ahhh...MacTown. This is the view from my new work center up in B140.

The vastness of open water will picturesque chunks of floating ice!

The new (and already broken) ice pier and Hut Point.

A closer view of the pier and the ice!

Crack!

Look at all those ice chunks!

I claim the middle one!

Slosh, slosh! So much water!

Ice, ice, baby.

Incredible!

As far as the eye can see, Ice!

Looks so glacial, doesn't it?

So blue and white! (There are only so many ways to describe ice and water!)

Vince's Cross at Hut Point overlooking the Sea Ice!

Mountains, Ice and Sea!

Sun, surf, ice.
Penguins! These Adelies are molting, so not the usual animated and playful sort I've seen before. I've heard that molting is painful for them and these little guys were hunkered down on the point.

One, Two, Three!

What does it mean when a penguin sees his shadow on February 25th?
Winter FOREVER!

What up?

I generally have the dialogue of the Madagascar penguins
running in my head every time I see the little Adelies!

Take that!

Awww...penguins!

Same Continent, Same Town, Same Room

2011-02-19T00:00:00.000-08:00

My main pad while in McMurdo was in B155, Room 127. Which is where, by some miracle and a little blessing from the Housing Gods (ha!), I landed upon arrival. I did, however, have a few (2) less-than-excited roommates I would be sharing the room with for a few days before they departed.

Surprisingly, these less-than-excited roommates actually went down to the housing office to complain about my presence as they needed the THREE EXTRA BEDS in the room to pack. TO PACK! Because they were leaving in two days. Really? Thankfully, when I went to housing to discuss this ridiculous issue, they agreed that I should not and did not have to move. WHEW! There is nothing I'd rather do less than schlep my 150 lbs. of crap all over station after just having travelled half way around the world. Anyhow, I was relieved I was able to stay in my winter room.

After my less-than-excited roommates left station, I was more-than-happy to clean up and have the room all to myself. I had the foresight to take before pictures and will, of course, post the final pictures once I have everything set up.

This is my temporary bed, covered in all my crap, above and below!

The other beds, filled with more
of my crap and my lovely fake plant that Bamma
kept for me over the summer season!

More beds and a wee bit of homemade shelving.

The wardrobe, refrigerator and desk. Glamorous, no?

The desk. However, the most important item in this photo
is the iPod player, which was the first thing I set
up before I started cleaning and moving furniture around.

Wow, I really do have a lot of crap!

I turned two of the beds into a couch, the patchwork pillows
were made and loaned to me by Bamma!

Furniture moves and stacks!

The Bed. These mattresses are about as comfortable as those
sleeper sofas with the metal bar right in the middle of my back.
However, I will be borrowing some extra mattresses from MC from
his upstairs room, which happen to be much nicer.

Sometimes crap piles just migrate from one side of the room to the other!

Bamma came over for a dinner date!
All in all, I am very lucky to have gotten directly into my room AND to have my roommates leave so soon. Sadly, some winterovers are still waiting to get settled. For now, I'm still unpacking and trying to decide what home will be like for the next eight months.

Wait...Chichi is BACK on the Ice?

2011-02-14T00:00:00.000-08:00

Yes. I am indeed back on the Ice for my second Winter. After completing an entire year on the Ice (from September 2009 - September 2010), spending a month traveling in New Zealand, a week in Australia and enjoying 3-1/2 wonderful months in Colorado, I spent countless hours contemplating what I should do next.

Being able to travel and experience life in other parts of the world has long been on my list. Working in Antarctica helps make travel possible. The time I spent traveling this past year has been an incredible experience. And as a somewhat undecided thirty-something-year-old woman, the time to travel is now.
Part of my next dream involves India, where I hope to spend a month taking in the culture and learning some different meditation techniques. I'm specifically interested in an ashram established by my favorite Guru, Osho located in Pune. Though I am still researching possibilities.

And so begins another winter (Technically, I have been in "winter" for 14 out of the last 15 months - thank goodness for the green and warmth of NZ - and have another 8 months ahead of me, that makes 22 months or nearly TWO STRAIGHT YEARS of winter!) and my third season on the ice (summer/winter, winter).

I will be available on e-mail and Facebook and if you're feeling really ambitious, you can send flat-mail letters to:

My Name (Winterover 2011)
RPSC - McMurdo Station
PSC 469 Box 700
APO, AP 96599-1035

You will be able to send packages if you wish, but please don't send any until July as they will not be delivered until August.

Be sure to "follow" or Favorite this new link (www.ice2.blogspot.com). I believe you can subscribe to be notified when new posts appear (at the bottom) for all the latest and greatest news from my small snowmound in Antarctica. In case you missed the last blog, you can find it here (www.chichisiceadventure.blogspot.com).

Until we meet again my friends...