Polar Explorer Eric Larsen
Day 18: Alone
overcast then sunny -10 C -18C windchill
04 December 2009 | Antarctica
On a clear day, we estimate that we can see at least 12 miles toward the horizon. That means (doing a little 8th grade math) we have a visible snow panorama of 452.16 miles. That also means for more than that distance, we are the only living things.

Dongsheng, Bill and Eric. Remember those three small souls? That's us traveling in a place of nearly unending vastness. Most days we are humbled at the prospect. As Bill notes, 'it makes us realize we are a small piece of the whole picture.'

He continues, 'In fact, we have no real relevance here. Antarctica makes no real notice of our presence.' Perhaps this place is important just becauuse it exists

Yet we are here. Skiing to the South Pole. . We feel lucky to have this opportunity. The significance and our insignificance is noted every day.

It was a warm day with ideal snow. On days like this our minds wander as we ski easy, relaxed strides. At breaks, we enngage in friendly banter. Yesterday, while Bill and I tried to analyze several aspects of good relationships, Dongsheng interrupted to comment, 'why do you guys have to make everything so complicated?'

We all laughed, packed away our down coats and began skiing.

Image: Dongsheng pulling his sled.

Remember, it's cool to be cold. Save the Poles. Save the planet.

For more information, please visit www.savethepoles.com

For information about guided Antarctic expeditions, please visit http://www.antarctic-logistics.com/

For media inquiries, please contact lora@screamagency.com

For technical inquires, please contact webexpeditions.net
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