March 3, 2008 - Fairbanks, AK: Day 3Since my last entry things have been a whirlwind of activity. The team at PolarTREC managed to arrange travel for all 12 2008-09 participants from their hometowns to Fairbanks, Alaska for training.
I left Billings, MT on Saturday March 1 at 6:00 am on Horizon Air. Flying into Seattle I experienced one of the most amazing sights I have ever seen. The stratus clouds stretched as far as the eye could see but they poofed up on the top like a sea of popped corn. It seemed that there were valleys and mountains of clouds stretching off into nowhere. I wish I had a picture, I guess you'll just have to imagine. Arriving at Anchorage, Alaska was a big deal for me as well. It has been a long time dream of mine to go to Alaska and as the mountains pierced the cloud tops, I knew I had arrived.
The trip from Anchorage to Fairbanks was almost spiritual. I can imagine what my travel mates were thinking as I had my face glued to the airplane window. The mountains stretched as far as my eyes could tell. They looked ancient, like they have been sitting waiting for spring for eternity. I could hardly catch my breath!
Fairbanks: For the past two days we have been training at the Westmark Hotel. We are learning about logistics, technology, obligations, travel arrangements, packing lists....on and on. Although we have been in out seats for two days straight, nobody has lost their excitement! The room is full of energy.
Last night...Itialian for dinner, tonight...Thai! Then, off to the National Ice Carving Championships!
More to come!