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Saturday, January 20, 2007

We found the middle of nowhere

Lat S 89.32.811 Long W 88.36.442

I don't think you could ever match the exhileration of a ski plane dropping you in the middle of nowhere. To watch the plane fly away and know that you are truly on your own is humbling and frightening at the same time. We are now as far from civilization as you would be if you were in San Diego and needed to get to Europe. That's an estimate given the distance, but let's just say it's a long ways and we better be pretty self-reliant.

We're camping in peaceful conditions for now, but the last few days have taught us that Antarctica can throw some unimaginable winds and temperatures at you at any time. We've built a snow wall around the tent just in case. We're constantly consious of our gear and ourselves to keep from making mistakes. When you're this remote, the smallest mistake can turn disastrous.

On a lighter note, we're all well and excited to be getting closer to the south pole. Enjoying every minute of this journey.

Polar Opposites

6 Comments:

Anonymous Anonymous said...

It seems hard to imagine.Even though we've no doubt all seen documentories on Antarctica,the scale of remoteness is clearly awesome.
It's fantastic to know you're all well, and getting closer every day to the bottom of the world.
All's fine here, life just goes on as normal. Strange, why isn't what you're up to on the front page of the newspapers, rather than the rubbish that is !!!Loads of love as always.John Tom and Jamie xxx

3:16 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Kathy and friends,
I am so proud of you. I do not envy you though. White sandy beaches are my idea of remoteness. Be safe and remember we are all with you in the heart.
Love your sister,
Amy

7:10 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I totally agree with Jamie that expeditions such as yours should be on the front page of newspapers. As Cajuns as well as French Canadians would say "Lachez pas la patate les filles". Litterally, it means "don't let go of the potato" but a more exact translation would be "Don't give up". Here is the refrain.

Hey! Lâches pas la patate mon neg Hey! Lâches pas la patate
Une chose qu'est claire, j'fais mon affaire Mais j'lâche pas la patate

I bet you would be the first ones to sing it in Antarctica. Have a great and safe day!
France

9:05 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I'm imagining packing up everyday and hauling out the sleds.Mmmmmm...no wonder my Mom moved from her farm in the Utah snow. But all of you seek it out. Enjoy this magnificant time of in your life staying removed from the "rubbish" as John appropriately described.
Miss You!
Alisa

9:21 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

alright mum (naomi) u keeping it cool down under!! I bet you have changed your mind now because i am in a warm room with no wind or snow while your in the south pole........ good choice! cant wait till you come back and i only want to hear this story once! have fun love jamie xxxxx

10:33 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Kath-

It sounds even colder than a Logan winter. I am certain I couldn't stay upright on the ice down there. Glad you are outfitted with the finest of "moon boots". Stay safe, my friend!! :) Am so proud of you.

much love,
Coni

11:06 AM  

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