A perfect day

I have been sitting here trying to figure out how to describe today, and failing. That's because it was fantastic. We awoke to the best weather I have ever experienced in Antarctica - beautiful clear blue skies, lots of sunshine and no wind at all. Roger and I got our gear together and went up the hillside to do some field training, which involved a morning of sliding down slopes trying to stop myself with an ice axe and digging a trench as part of the crevasse rescue. Whilst this was going on, the Twin Otter aircraft were flying in and out on the runway. They are bright red and look fantastic flying in with the beautiful backdrop of ice-clad mountains behind.

Jo near Rothera Station

Reptile Ridge as we saw it

Looking towards the Antarctic Peninsula from Reptile Ridge

Roger near the top

After lunch Roger took me behind Reptile Ridge on the snow and ice, and we walked linked together with crampons and ice axes over several wind-sculpted features to the summit (see the photos above). It was really hot and I feel like I have had too much sun today. Fortunately I was plastering on the sunscreen all day! Anyway the views over Ryder Bay and the islands were breathtaking. What I liked best were the weird ice sculptures and the peace and quiet. Because there was no wind, and we were over the other side of the ridge from the base, it was totally silent except for a few birds flying by. For me, that is the best way to experience Antarctica. After all, most of it is not inhabited by humans and most of it is extremely remote. To see it on a day like today was really special. Having said that, it was also quite hard work! I am really tired now, but we all know that the weather tomorrow is going to be rubbish....so everyone here is making the most of today. Actually I think that's a very good philosophy in general. I certainly made the most of dinner this evening - lamb with roast potatoes, mashed carrot and suede and gravy, followed by apple and cinnamon crumble and custard. Yum! (the food has been a lot better this weekend...)