The final day in NOLA before the adventure begins was spent preparing class to begin in my absence. The room was set up, lesson plans were printed, our school's computers - which will be heavily utilized as our students tag along with the Arctic expedition - were logged onto the PolarTREC website. While I must leave most of the classroom behind, last spring, Schwarz students created a flag that will proudly accompany me in my journey north. 
A few adjustments to the Schwarz flag, which will be debuted in Alaska!
Back home, some sweet goodbyes were said, and my duffle bag was packed with all the gear required for three weeks of permafrost prowling. I'm off in the morning, and will update all tomorrow upon my arrival in Alaska.
Donning my mosquito net shirt - part of the gear issued by CH2M Hill - I make some final touches to the luggage I'll be taking. A sleeping bag, several gloves, rubber boots, and many warm layers constitute the bulk of my baggage.