Views from the Chinese Station on King George Island

Whale bones on the Chinese station

Our transportation in paradise

I'm back from Chile.  It's much easier to review my pictures now. I wasn't sure I captured my experience well.  But for the first time, I can see what I have.  My 48 hour journey to Antarctica was remarkable!  It is a subtle and powerful experience upon which to reflect.  Because my father went decades before he had a family,  I didn't think I would feel a connection to the continent in my DNA.  I was wrong.  The feeling of awe is deep within me.

Alejo Contreras Staeding, guide in Antarctica

Alejo Contreras Staeding is an excellent guide.  Little did I know how excellent.  He is the first Chilean to ski to the South Pole.  It took him 97 days on a solo trip.  He is the embodiment of an Antarctic explorer.  I learned to appreciate the beauty and mystery of polar exploration from the short time with Alejo.  His enthusiasm for going places no human has ever touched is something I hadn't thought of. 
We received a certificate of exploration from the company who prepared the tour.  DAP Antarctica hosted Bill Gates last year on this same trip!