A Book Report (alternatively, Trip Envy)

Although I still have 247 days (as of this posting) until I leave for my Antarctica trip, I've been reading up on the icy continent in an effort to get my Antarctic fix. Between scouring the web and returning home with a stack of books from the local library, I've found some pretty good material.

So far though, the best find has been a book called "Life on the Ice: No One Goes to Antarctica Alone" by Roff Smith. In his book, two vantage points weave through the narrative. One is a glimpse into what life is like for the hundreds of people (scientists, military, staffers) from various nations living on the continent of Antarctica. The lengths of their stays are as varied as their backgrounds. But regardless, they are all bonded by the communal living conditions. The second perspective of the book shares his personal observations as a visitor. His enthusiasm to explore the continent is infectious; I can't help but get excited for my trip. Throughout his book, he is constantly filled with with the wonder, awe, and excitement, that are typically only found in the eyes of a child. It is this energy that makes the book a joy to read.

So here's the rub-- Mr. Smith was given granted access to military/scientific bases that most of us will never be able to visit, and a chartered sailboat that most of us will never be able to afford. Because of these advantages, his narrative portrays unique and rare experiences not common for even the Antarctic "locals". Hence, I am extremely envious of his adventures. I find myself wishing I could explore the continent as he did... to live a scientific station for a couple weeks, to peer down into the crater of Mt. Erebus and see the glow of a permanent lava lake, to chopper over the vast icescape, and to sail through the pristine crystal waters that very few people have ever seen. Compared to his time and experience on the frozen continent, my trip this December looks miniscule and pultry. I constantly remind myself that I too have been given an opportunity to visit a place that is out of reach (whether by remoteness or by expense) for many other people. And for that I am very lucky.