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It is our last day here. Well, it was supposed to be our last day here, but last nights gentle soft snow falling out of windless skies has given way to pellets of ice driven sideways by a gale out of the south. Fortunately, there was a small weather window in the morning and I was able to complete my last dive, one more chance to video the experiments at the outfall and just south of the outfall. It all went well, and I say farewell to the Ross Sea for another year. It is hard to leave, for though we have achieved all our goals for the season, collected every sample we needed to, there are so many other experiments I would like to do!
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| Weather like this makes us really appreciate those red parkas! |
While I was collecting the last data, Craig and Jennifer were returning the last bits and pieces of equipment we have used over the last 2 months. We have to get a check off from each of the workstations that we have given back everything before they will let us leave. Despite a few glitches, all was finally okayed. Then we packed our personal gear.and took the time for a short break. We watched a movie in the middle of the afternoon and felt like kids on a snow day. It was really nice to relax, knowing that everything was done.
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| During Thanksgiving dinner, we had some time to talk with friends as we waited for our turns to gorge. The weather is giving us another break! |
So we now have a 24 hour weather delay, but the forecast does not look good for the next day either. We are hoping for some improvement so we can take a last little walk and say goodbye to this lovely place. In the meantime, this respite has given us a chance to say goodbye to the many friends we have made over the season. Most are staying until February, and it is hard for us to leave in the middle of things, when we feel like we are just getting to know people. I have had a chance to write postcards, and make a few Christmas presents up for those who have become so special to us.
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| Commander is one of the many unique personalities that make this place so special. He is such an icon down here that we had a "dress like commander" day to celebrate him. |
Thank you all for being interested in our science, our struggles, and our adventure. To those who sent questions and emails, we appreciate your involvement and hope that you've learned something new and have been at least a little entertained. We'll be back with you soon, full of pictures and stories!
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| Remember, always eat dessert first! |
Condition One continues outdoors but we are safe and snuggly inside (except I packed my boots and so have been wandering around in wet slip ons for 2 days now). Until next year, this is Stacy Out.
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| Heading for New Zealand - and unlimited freshies! |