Day Eleven: 118 miles travelled, 597 miles remaining
It was glorious sunshine for most of today, so I was actually quite happy when a little bit of snow was thrown on top. It turned out I did want a White Christmas after all!
Today, I was treated to my first sun dog or parhelion (an atmospheric optical phenomenon that consists of a bright spot to one or both sides of the Sun). It was so incredibly beautiful, and another memory to savour. That was one of two amazing sights early this morning, as I also witnessed some mesmeric orangey pink clouds.
I called the family this morning to wish them a Merry Christmas, which was definitely tough even though it’s always so nice to hear their voices. If you’re reading – I love you all and miss you very much.
One of my more unusual parts of the trip happened today, as I had a quick stop to call into Sky Sports News live and say hello, I got my emergency shelter set up and sat in it so I was out of the wind. Luckily it was quite warm, as it was a really surreal experience chatting away to the presenters. It must have been one of the longest distance calls they’ve ever had on the show!
Other than the epic sights today, it was much more of the same conditions. It was still slow progress, the snow was still so deep and I couldn’t imagine it ever ending. Learning conditions change so fast here in Antarctica so every morning I hope I’ll suddenly come across glorious frozen patches of snow.
ALE (logistics team in Antarctica) issued a weather warning today and have extended the final date by which I (and any other expedition) must arrive at the South Pole by an additional week due to the extreme climatic conditions we’ve faced the last two weeks. I’m still thinking through what this means for me as unfortunately it could still leave me very tight for food and fuel. There are also certain heavily crevassed areas ahead and new satellite data from a few days ago shows the risk is significant. I’ll have to probe areas of my tent and whenever off skis to check for crevasses and ensure it is safe. This is very unusual too and shows how unsettled the weather is this season.
I had Mariah Carey blasting in my ears today, followed by Laphroaig and Christmas chocolates (thanks for smuggling into my sled Matt!)
Hope you had a Merry Christmas everyone!
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We wake up every morning looking forward to read your blog . You are one of a kind so brave and determined. Keep it up . Knus Betina and Richard ❤️
Utterly fantastic effort! Keep chipping away the miles and making memories that will last you forever.
Jenny – Your journey is amazing! What courage and strength you have to continue against such conditions. Be safe, and thank you for all you are doing for your causes as well….Susan D.