My daughter Sparky won't be home for Thanksgiving again this year. For those who have followed my blog for years, you'll know that she's working in Antarctica for their summer season again.Sparks called us last night using an iridium phone from Byrd Camp in the middle of the continent. She's living in a small tent and helping build the tent city for scientists and others who will be using it.
As with each call, I learn something new- she said the weather has been holding them back a bit with windchill making it close to -50 below at times, wind at 40 knots and about 20' visibility... yikes! She sleeps with her water bottle, so it doesn't totally freeze up. Makes me appreciate my warm, cozy house so much more.
One of the cool things about their environment right now are the "sun dogs" Have you heard of them? This is new to me. They're like halo reflections on each side of the sun. She said with the snow, (and 24 hour sunlight), the reflect even more and it looks like little rainbows all over the sky.
So as always, I miss her. But I'm really proud of her. She said it's a dream job for her and what parent doesn't want their kids to be that happy?
"Yikes" is right! That's mighty chilly temps! Hadn't heard of "Sun Dogs" either, love learning new things. Sounds like it creates a beautiful sight. Sorry that your daughter won't be home for Thanksgiving, my daughter won't be either... she lives all the way in Texas ~ New teaching job and her first apartment. She's happy too, and you're right; we parents want our children to be happy!
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing! :)
I pray that when the time comes, my children will know what will make them happy and passionate about life and follow it. I love hearing updates and adventures about Sparky and think it's awesome she's doing what makes her happy. It's a good thing there are those people in the world who can tolerate that kind of cold, I would never be one of them...
ReplyDeleteThanks Trina and Jennifer for your comments. Yes, having adult kids who are doing what they love is important.
ReplyDeleteA long time ago, one of my friends told me that" the best thing you can give your child is roots and wings". And seeing them fly is as fulfilling as having them come home and visit too.
Wow! I don't know how she does it, but good for her. The stories she will have to tell. She's going to have to write a book!
ReplyDeleteI always loved that saying about giving your children roots and wings! I've had a magnet on my refrigerator with that saying on it for years... It's so true.
ReplyDelete