Submitted by Anonymous on Sat, 12/29/2007 - 19:32
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Antarctic Weather Stations

Wow, what an experience, flight wise, from SA to the ice.  It sounds like  packing your gear was a trip in itself.  Good thing they provided you with gear to keep you warm.  All of the postings are so very interesting and educational, great questions. 

Speaking of questions, how would you describe your feelings/emotions when you first saw or stepped out on the ice?  Going from beautful NZ, your pictures are great, to an all ice environment in just 4 to 5 hours seems almost impossible.

 All is well here. Soak up all those great experiences and have fun.

 Your Mom and Dad

Sat, 12/29/2007 - 20:54

Kirk Beckendorf

It is a rather disorienting feeling to step off the plane into the completely black and white environment. There are only about 4 small porthole type windows on the C17, and the few times I looked out it was cloudy so I was not quite sure what to expect when I walked out. The only color I saw was from things that were man made. Plus we were somewhat hurried along to Ivan.  All of that created a feeling of.... hmm that's hard to describe. It was rather sureal, and created a feeling of exhilitated calmness mixed with disbelief and even some confusion. Exhilirating because I was finally here and calmness for the same reason.