Making for Land…

We are leaving Station Papa and returning to Ketchikan, AK to drop off some science personnel and our film cameraman, Rob. Peggy will be headed to her grandson’s graduation, and is rubbing our noses in her early departure (thanks, Peg!). Dr. Charlie Trick is headed back to London, Ontario, to attend the opening of a new research facility there and rub elbows with Al Gore. Charlie managed to wrangle Al into crossing the northern border for a good cause, so it’s fitting that he witnesses the results of his wrangling.

Unfortunately we have hit some rough seas. Heavy weather means no venturing out on deck unless sampling, and then only with a buddy. I woke up Monday and found the refrigerator next to my workstation had wiggled 8 inches into the lab walkway. We have managed to shove it back 3 inches or so, but my work area is still a foot traffic bottleneck.

I had a domestic fit and baked some scones for the whole crew after hours Monday evening. The urge was both a selfish craving and a parting gift for Peggy. Dan allowed me access to his kitchen, and the chocolate scones didn’t last the night. Success! Mmmm, warm scones… This is the first time I have felt seasick while baking, and the first time attempting a quadruple batch of anything.


Rumor has it we may have 24 hours of shore leave in Ketchikan, so stay tuned...