July 17, 2006--Packing for Alaska, Did I get everything? Options

[Charla_Jordan]

Wow, I can’t believe that tomorrow I will be leaving on my expedition! I have been preparing for months for this trip. Starting with “Learn to Return” training, how to download pictures, and how to enter Teacher Journal entries that all of the TREC teacher learned at orientation in Fairbanks, Alaska in April. I would like to thank the ARCUS office for all of the training and the wonderful support!

There are several items that I have to take to Toolik Field Station. Here is a partial list:

Long-sleeved shirts, sweatpants, cargo pants, sock (cotton, wool, hiking, fleece), long john’s, underarmour, fleece jacket, fleece pants, parka, Gortex rain gear, windproof gloves, windproof hat, neck gaiter, fingerless gloves, hiking boots, rubber boot, and a bug suit.

This is a very small version of the actual list. Veco Polar Resources supplied much of the cold weather gear. Thanks Veco. My mother helped me gather the rest—thanks Mom!

All of my gear for Alaska


One of my twin granddaughters, Kyndell, showing my rubber boots.


Kylie shows off my fashionable windproof hat.

Veco also supplied a huge duffle bag to carry all of the supplies in.

Two stow-a-ways for Alaska!

I finally feel totally prepared and ready to start my expedition.

The final product!

Tomorrow morning I will leave Tyler TX, fly to Houston, to Seattle, and finally arrive in Fairbanks 11 hours later.

Please follow along with my adventures by reading my daily "Teacher Journal" posting. Also, don't forget to ask a question on the "Ask the Teacher" section. When you open the Ask the Teacher section, there is a video on "How to post to the forum" that will explain the process.


Question of the Day:
It was 99 degrees today in Henderson, Texas. What will the temperature in Fairbanks be on July 17 when I arrive?