The Day is FINALLY here!
The long awaited day has finally arrived. Today is the day I am departing for my 6 week PolarTREC Arctic expedition! This has been a very busy week. My substitute at school for my absence, Mr. Smith, joined me in the classroom for my final days. This will help my students transition more easily. Mrs. Traylor's classes had “Going Away” parties for me and Channel 2 and Channel 7 made visits to the classroom to talk with my students. My children have their final schedules, last minute reminders, and of course, notes and surprises for the next six weeks. My boyfriend gave my a “Care package” with some very “witty” items...LifeSavers and Icebreakers.
Last night, I had the daunting task of taking this mess of equipment, supplies and clothing and packing it into bags that I can actually travel with. Many of my students have asked what I am packing...so here it is in a nutshell. In a regular day, I expect to layer long underwear, jeans, a shirt and a sweatshirt. I have several Polar Fleece items that you will see me in over and over again! I really packed lightly and am planning on doing laundry every three or four days. Hannah, I think that answers your question! I also had to pack sheets, blankets, my pillow (that I can't sleep without), LOTS of Hot Hands, towel, washcloth, toiletries (enough for 6 weeks!!), Hats, mittens, gloves, steel toed neoprene boots, wool socks, a winter coat and CHOCOLATE finished off the bags!
All of my clothing, equipment and supplies before I began packing!
After hours of sorting and packing, my luggage was finally manageable. It weighed in at 103 pounds!! I hope I will be able to maneuver 103 pounds when I get to Alaska!!
My luggage weighed in at 103 pounds!
My boyfriend took me to the airport...we had just a few minutes to enjoy one last iced tea together!
Ms Rose and Brian enjoying an iced tea!
I am excited about leaving on this grand adventure....a once in a lifetime for me! I will miss my boyfriend, my family and my students, but I know they support me and will be following everything that we are doing on this journal!
Bags packed and ready to go...pink helmet cam in tow!
Stayed tuned to this journal as I begin making my way to the USCG Cutter Healy!! Until then...
“Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever” Mohandas Gandhi