Judging by this picture, It's hard to say exactly how I've weathered the past 39 years. Behind the hat, face mask and frost, its still the same old Eric. Considering some of my recent adventures, I am surprised to be here. (Here, as in alive). However, after four successful geographic pole expeditions, I'm a little tougher than I used to be. But I'm a bit more sensitive, too. (Don't tell anyone). There are lines and creases around my eyes and even some gray hair now.

I've lived in more places than I can count, but I'll always be from Wisconsin. Hey what can I say? I love cheese! Still, I consider myself a Minnesotan even though I've been in Boulder, Colorado for over a year now. (Don't worry Maria, that will change). We all look at life through the filter of our experiences. If I close my eyes, I can still see vivid images of biking across the the US, making maple syrup and skiing to the North Pole. I am a jumbled accumulation of people, places and things.

I know a lot more than I used to as well. I have come to believe whole-heartedly in the fundamental principles of science, but sometimes rely on gut instincts and feelings in many decisions I make. Still, I know enough to also know what I don't know.

Of things that I am unsure of, Global Warming is not one of them. Thin ice and open water in the Arctic. The unusual shut down of Katabatic winds in the Antarctic. In most regions, an increasing number of extreme weather events. I have been a first person witness to these events.

After completing two of the three legs of my world record breaking Save the Poles expedition, I am left with one nagging question. Why? Not necessarily the obvious why - as in why go to these remote places spend weeks and months in tent - but the why are we still debating the science behind climate change and why are we not doing more (myself included).

Ultimately the conversation needs to be focused on energy conservation and efficiency as well as implementing wide spread use of renewable energy. I like many other Americans and part of the problem. We need to act now.

In September, I will leave for Nepal and ultimately the summit of Mt. Everest. Over the next weeks and months, I hope to continue to tell my story and the story of these places. My goal, to entertain, educate and inspire.

There is a lot to be amazed about in this world of ours.