Twas the night before Christmas and all through the tent, not a creature was stirring except Dongsheng who was still awake and messaging his feet. Our oatmeal was laid in our breakfast cups with care, hoping that the cook would complete our morning fare.

How about this one... On the first day of Christmas, my true love gave to me...

5 more minutes of sleep 4 frozen toes 3 Clif bars 2 strong skis And a freeze dried dinner in my cup!

Hey, don't laugh. It's the best we can do.

Not hot. That's how I would describe today. With the wind chill it was - 40 which makes it a bit easier for we (us?) Americans as -40 celsius and fahrenheit are the exact same temperature. We all added an extra layer to combat the bitter cold. I even wore my mittens for the first time of the entire trip.

Ho Ho Ho.

Despite the cold, it was another sunny day in Antarctica. We were hoping to reach our final cache today, but the long climbs proved to formidable for a big mileage day. Instead, we chose the safe option of pitching camp after our normal eight hour travel day. Yes, we could have pushed and covered the extra three miles, but at what cost?

Besides, if we are up past midnight Santa might not come. We are going on the assumption that this is his last stop - being on the exact opposite end of the planet and all.

Hoping this post finds you happy and warm surrounded by friends and family. Our best to all.

Also, please join millions of others in working for a fair, science-based, and legally binding treaty that truly solves the grave problem of global warming before it's simply too late.

You can sign onto the Center for Bilogical Diversity's pledge at: http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/o/2167/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=3D1938

Image: Bill doingg his best Kris Kringle impersonation.

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

For more information, please visit www.ericlarsenexplore.com

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

For information about Bill Hanlon's foundation, please visit www.basichealthfoundation.org

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