Today was our last day and Christchurch, which we spent getting last minute items--Lou found a spatula, and I found some potholders.

The afternoon was spent at the CDC (the Clothing Distribution Center) where we were issued cold weather gear, most of which we don't need because we have our own.  Some of us took some socks and gloves though.  We left the majority of our bags at the CDC, which will help with tomorrow morning, when we need to show up for our flight by 5 am.  The shuttles will pick us up at 4:15 am at our bed and breakfast to head over to the United States Antarctic Program Center.

I had lunch with John and Lou as we waited for our turn at the CDC to watch a video about what to expect on the flight tomorrow and how to check in, etc. as well as to get our clothing, and we all decided that we are excited about the upcoming field season.  Lou can't wait for the traverse to begin after having such a good experience last year. For me, with this being my first year, I am  looking forward to a brand new experience.

I took a quick trip over to the museum to rub Roald Amundson's nose for good luck on the upcoming trip.  It's tradition in the U.S. Antarctic program to rub the bust in Christchurch's Canterbury Museum for good luck.   You can see from the picture that his nose is shiny
from all who have come to him for a little extra luck over the years.

Roald Amundsen's bust at the Canterbury Museum in Christchurch (Photo: Zoe Courville)