Homeward Bound, the unincredible journey

So the plug has been pulled/postponed for our project here in Alaska.  The reasons and decisions behind it are far above my pay grade. I am very disappointed.  We were just starting to get into the groove of this survey.  The crew and the contractors were a great group of people to work with. Its a shame that our mojo has to stop.  I was looking forward to transiting to the Arctic, maybe some other time.  We have just left Dutch Harbor after days of waiting for weather cancelled flights.  Everyone who was supposed to fly home is now in for an extra voyage to Seattle. We may be home in time for Independence Day.  Please be sunny when I get home.

Yesterday was interesting

We had a local Tsunami warning in Dutch Harbor yesterday.  Apparently there was a magnitude 7.3 earthquake centered on one of the southwestern Aleutian Islands.  So all of the townsfolk drove to high ground.  Most of the big ships quickly casted off and headed for open ocean.  I was stoked to watch our ship get out of the harbor with a quickness.  I defenitely was a bit nervous.  It is a weird feeling to see many ships leave a harbor in unison.  Once we hit open ocean, the Tsunami warning had been called off.  Last night I decided to shoot pool and drink some brews at the Unisea Sports Bar to calm the nerves a little.

Dutch Harbor

We made it to Dutch Harbor. Yesterday we had the ship fueled up. We had some supplies flewn in. I painted the town last night (not really)not much to paint, but had a couple beers.  Now I am just ready to get the show on the road and back at it.  I watched a classic the other night "The Caine Mutiny" with Humphrey Bogart, good flick. I took a long walk today, it felt great to stretch the legs. Having fresh caught salmon for dinner. Life is good!

Been a while

Birthday on the ocean wasn't so bad. I received many bday messages from friends and family, always comforting.  The chefs made me a tasty raspberry chocolate cake. I am reading Glenn Beck's book, for a good laugh.  I watched Space Balls yesterday, Classic! Only 2.5 more months of this cruise.  I will be home in time for Eryn and I's inaugural season tickets for Husky Football.  Like the sands in the hour glass........

Hey Yo!

We are slowly entering deeper waters (~5000m).  I enjoy the company of my coworkers at night time.  It takes a certain creature to be "Up all night, Sleep all day!" Unlike our robotic counterparts (the day crew), we (night crawlers) like to listen to music (Metal, Reggae, Rock, Pop, Oldies & Classical).  The tunes keep us motivated, awake and strike up interesting conversation.  Sometimes, I think I sleep better in the day than the night.  Maybe all those late shifts at Sluggo and REI have something to do with it.  I am reading "The Black Hand" right now.  It is the story of Rene "Boxer" Enriquez and his life in the Mexican Mafia.  It is violent, but a must read.  Wish I could be there for the Summit vs. Hooverville tomorrow. Go ScrubJays!!!!!!!!!!!! I miss my wifey and def leopards.

My Crib

I think it has finally sunk in that this vessel is going to be my home for a while.  "No where to run to, no where to hide" except my state room.  State room sounds luxurious and large.  I am hear to tell you it is smaller and less glamerous than Martha Stewart's jail cell. I do have a desk, chair, 4 lights, small bed, closet, storage, sink, and a TV(paper weight).  I share an adjoined bathroom with a coworker, but at least we have opposing schedules.  Oh yeah, showering is like a free amusement ride, it even has a handle to hold onto in case you don't feel like being ejected towards Loo (Alias J. T. Crapper). This Loo, I feel like he is always staring at me while I shower.  There is laundry and linen service, but no dry cleaning.  Thank you for visiting my crib. Now you got to go!

Days run into days out here.

Not much new going on here.  We are surveying the seafloor with sonar fish and taking sediment grab samples, no coring yet.  The days are flying by.  The weather is highly variable.  I am spending my spare time writing, reading and jamming out to my tunes.  Today I had breakfast twice, super cool, probably won't eat eggs, hashbrowns or breakfast pork for a while upon my return.  I am going to have one ugly beard when I get home. Random, but I wish I had my Ugh slippers with me! Way to go Summit Scrub Jays, doing me proud. Go M's, Go Nucks!