There are only a few things that keep us warm out here: our pulling our sleds, our big down jackets, Nemo sleeping bags, soup from the Stanley, MSR XGK stoves and, well the last thing isn't actually a thing at all, just a thought - or many thoughts rather.

We' got more than enough time to reflect out here (which isn't necessarily a good thing) and with our very very slow progress, it can be easy at any given moment to spiral downward and let the cold - physically and mentally seep in.

With only a few things at our disposal to generate heat, it can be a very tough battle against such an unforgiving and indifferent environment.

Warm thoughts. We take them out only so often and carefully.

It was a clear day and despite a rough start in the drifts and pressure, we found our way to some larger pans. While still drifted we were able to choose routes that avoided the worst ice.

We gambled on relaying gear so even though we made less than four miles north, we actually skied nearly 12 miles.

Frustrating beyond belief, but tomorrow we will go out with renewed hope and try again.

Distance traveled: 3.72nm

Image: Pulling across some rough ice.