It has been a whirlwind of non-stop work since I returned from Fairbanks, Alaska on 3/1/09. I finally have all of my sub plans completed! Even though it was only for 2 weeks (I have spring break for one week now), I still left a binder of sub plans instead of just a couple of typed pages. I don't know how the PolarTREC teachers that are going to be out of the classroom longer will be able to do it.
Betsy Wilkening packed with all of the gear for 3 weeks in Barrow, AK.
They have had blizzards, a power outage in their "hut", lots of wind to deal with, a rabies outbreak from the Arctic foxes, and even some pictures of the aurora!!! Harry Beine posted on the OASIS blog, "This is the most extensive atmospheric chemistry measurement campaign in the Arctic ever!" I'm very excited to finally meet Harry and the other researchers in Barrow.
Yesterday as I was riding my bicycle home from school, I enjoyed the warm temperatures and the few wildflowers that are starting to bloom. Unfortunately I spotted a Harris hawk at the base of a power pole. It was most likely electrocuted. I called AZ Game & Fish when I returned home. They had already received a call and contacted the UA (University of Arizona) who is doing research on the hawks, and our power company so that they can install some hawk guards on the poles. I found a dead hawk like this several years earlier in my neighborhood, and they installed protection for the hawk families.
Jeannie and Bill Wilkening enjoying my farewell dinner with family.
Last night I had a farewell dinner with family and friends. I hadn't seen my brothers and their families since Christmas even though we live in the same town. My sister and I only live a few miles apart, so we see each other and talk often. Now we are going to have to email, since my cell phone will probably not work in Barrow. It was hard saying goodbye to my kids, Jeannie & Patrick, and my husband, Bill. They are very supportive and excited for me. I know that they will eventually figure out how to get food in the refrigerator when I am gone.
I ended up packing 3 bags, since it was too expensive to send supplies to Barrow ($170!). My carry-on bag only has my Sorel boots and bib overalls in it. Harry warned that in case my luggage gets lost, at least I can stay warm until it arrives! My parka is in hand along with hat and gloves.
I got to see the Grand Canyon out of the airplane window. It won't be long until I take my students there in April! Next stop today is Seattle, WA and then Anchorage, AK. I'll get a night at my cousin's house and then off to Barrow on Sunday.
The Grand Canyon as seen from the Air #2.