Slide ShowClick here to read/sign the expedition guestboook
Dispatches: April - present
Dispatches: March
Dispatches: Feb


May 11, 2004 - Sushi and broken ankles

Ive been back a week and a half, and I can honestly say I wish I was back out on the ice. In fact, I still dream about being out on the ice, or have ice in every dream, every night. The ice has truly become a part of me, inseparable.

I saw my expedition doctor, and the leading ankle specialist in the Bay Area. Initial prognosis on my ankle is that I achieved a compression fracture, torn ligaments, and a damaged nerve. I traveled nearly 140 statute miles on my broken ankle, I was very determined to reach the pole. My face and eyes are healing, and only a redness remains. Ive already been given the green light by my doctor for my upcoming South Pole Solo expedition. They'll patch me together one way or another, though I might require 2-6+ months of physical therapy on my ankle.

Ive been busy giving many media interviews, doing tv shows and news programs, and continuing to get adjusted to being back. I feel less like a foreigner in my own land, even my English is improving. Ive also had sushi 4 times within a week! Yum, like that sushi!

Recently Ive gotten to see some of the pictures I took from the expedition, and some of the video. Im looking forward to sharing these with visitors to my website, as well as putting together an exciting DVD. The book should be finished by summer. I still havent recorded any of the music I composed from the expedition, but that will happen soon.

My last picture, of me holding an American flag at the North Pole seem to disturb a few (mostly/only French) visitors to my site. Hey, Im American, and proud to be. I cant say we always do the right thing, or the best thing, but at least we usually do something. Im proud to represent my country, and had the American flag on my sledges, clothing, even my sleeping bag. And sure, Americans have had a lot to do with the Pole, now, in the past, and in the future.

If you live in the Bay Area, you can catch me on UPN Channel 12 this Saturday around 9:20am, Sunday on ABC Channel 7 around 10am, and next Friday, May 21st, on KPIX Channel 5 Evening Magazine between 7-8pm. Also, my expedition will be featured on "The CBS Evening News with Dan Rather" in the upcoming days, also later on "CBS Sunday Morning".







May 3, 04 - Back on Terra Firma in California

Im back! Back to sunny California. In fact its been over 90F degrees the last several days, quite a change from the last two months out on the polar ice. An average difference of 120 degrees. Im adjusting to being back, got some good rest, and am trying to readjust. I feel like a foreigner in my own land.

Getting back from Norway went fairly smooth. Nearly 24 hours of travel and I was in San Francisco. I reflected on all of the travel to get from home, to the North Pole, and then back again.

Im healing well, though my ankle is still an issue. I have appointments with specialist and my expedition doctor this week. Well find out how bad I got hurt, and get on the road to recovery. My eyes are still a little blurry and Ill see an eye doctor. My face is healing, though its easy for people to see I went through something dramatic.

Im still trying to get my bearings, being back, getting adjusted to being around people again, not being on the ice. My dreams are always about being on the ice, negotiating over pressure ridges, dragging my sledge, even taking helicopter rides. I cant escape the polar ice, its engrained in my soul and system now.

Ill still be updating my website in the next several weeks as I wrap up this expedition. Ill also be adding a photo gallery of images that I wasnt able to share with you while on my expedition. The DVD, book, and some other items from the expedition are in the works, and for those that contacted me regarding those items, youll be alerted when they are available. And of course Ill be working hard on my next expedition/adventure: South Pole Solo www.southpolesolo.com

The picture is of me flying the American flag at the geographic North Pole. There were many pictures I tried to send out that for some reason I was unable to. I hope to show you more of my trek to the pole, and will be uploading a photo gallery in the next week or so.









Apr 28, 04 - In Norway

Hello, I haven't forgotten about you! Satellite phone connection is more difficult where I'm at, and I needed a bit of time to 'decompress' from my trek.

I'm in Longyearben, the Svalbard region of Norway. Our plane arrived without incident from Borneo ice station. On the Russian plane were about 40 trekkers and their gear.

Before boarding the plane, the polar greats posed for a picture. Borge Ousland, Marek Kaminski, Victor Boyarski. They invited me to be in this historic picture, and I was quite honored. It was a great moment for me, I felt I've been accepted into the 'polar club' and earned their respect.

We flew without incident for nearly three hours. When we arrived the temperature was 35 degrees outside, which after being out in the arctic for two months seemed very warm. I said goodbye to my polar colleagues on the airport runway and made my way to a prearranged hotel room.

I didn't get the room with a private bathroom and tv like I had imagined for so many days out on the ice, instead the place I am staying at is very modest, with shared bathrooms and a community lounge with a tv. I did however take 4 showers and finally feel clean. I also spent over three hours brushing/ripping the tangles out of my hair. I ended up tearing out a large dreadlock, ugh. At least I don't have to wear my hat to hide my hair anymore.

My face is healing very fast. A close examination of my ankle suggests I injured it worse than I thought. All in all, I'll live. And I'm still bright and optimistic on the inside, regardless of what my exterior might look like.

Last night I dreamt I was out on the ice, and I can feel it calling me, tearing at my soul. I'll likely be back to do this again, perhaps attempting it from the Canadian side where there's less chance for delays and time is more under one's control.

Today in the small village I saw Marek Kaminski a few times and we had dinner together. He helped a 15 year-old boy missing one arm and leg, to ski the last degree to the pole this year. Truly inspirational. I also posed for pictures with tourists that learned of my expedition while I shopped for a brush and some shampoo.

There are several parts to an expedition. There's the concept phase, the planning, preparation, training, marketing, fundraising and sponsorship, the actual expedition itself, and the post-expedition and media/press. Now I am in the post-expedition phase and will soon start to meet with press and media, recounting my arduous and exciting journey to reach the North Pole.

I head to London soon, probably to speak to the press, and then back to America.

I'd like to dedicate this update to all of my sponsors, especially WorldWideLearn.com. Without them I wouldn't have been able to attempt this once-in-a-lifetime trek. All of my sponsors (listed on my northpolesolo.com website) helped me get out on the ice, and helped me achieve my dream of going to the North Pole. Thank you very much for your support!! Please be sure to visit my sponsors websites. You can count on, if it was good enough for me to bring to the North Pole, it's likely the best you can get!



Apr 24, 04 - At Borneo

It was still a stormy day, the wind howling and battering my tent, with occasional flurries of light snow. This continued on for most of the day.

I stayed in the tent for the first half of the day, then later decided to venture out and shoot some pictures. Since it was blowing so hard I wore my goggles to protect my face.

The new leads near my tent gave me plenty to shoot. Towards the evening the clouds started to get less dense and I phoned the expedition travel company at the ice station.

As soon as visibility would increase, they would be leaving to come pick me up. Within a very short time, maybe 20 minutes it suddenly cleared up, the sun came out and there was hardly a cloud in the sky.

I gave a live tv interview via satellite phone to CBS from my tent. As soon as I finished I could hear the low rumble of the Russian MI-8 helicopter approaching. I quickly took down my tent and met the large machine as it landed.

Turns out I didn't need to rush, as they had also brought some scientists that needed to drill through the ice and place monitoring buoys. They set about their business and I met the others passengers aboard the helicopter.

Tony Haile, and Chris Hyman, the CEO of Serco, Ben Saunders sponsor, came out to greet me. It was great to see Tony again and meet Chris.
Following right behind them was CBS News from Los Angeles, one of their correspondents and a cameraman. Christian from Cerpolex also greeted me.

As the scientist were busy drilling holes and placing their instruments in the distance, I gave interviews and briefly related some of the highlights of my adventure they were asking me about.

After several hours the pair of scientist were done and we all boarded the helicopter to go meet Ben Saunders and give him his food, fuel, and other supplies so that he can continue on to the pole.

We flew to where Ben was and landed, all got out to see him. He was in good shape, a contrast to my beaten-up appearance. It was really great to see Ben, but I also couldn't help but feel a tiny bit jealous that he would get to continue on to the pole.

The Serco team resupplied Ben, while the scientists drilled more holes and placed more monitoring buoys. We said our good-byes, wished Ben luck, and flew off to another location for the scientists to place more buoys.

Eventually we reached Borneo Ice Station, a makeshift runway, with half a doze, large, heated tents, several helicopters on stand-by, and a plane. We all made our way to the dinning tent.

It's late, about 4 am in the morning, and there are more people waiting in the tent. There were many questions about my trek, what about my polar bear encountered so on. I got some hot food and enjoyed sitting at a table to eat a meal, first time in nearly two months.

After a while I was ready to sleep and it seemed that finding me a cot was going to be a hassle. So, I opted to sleep outside in my sleeping bag on the frozen ice, no tent. I did, and slept well.

Today I hope I will still get the chance to go to the pole. Fingers crossed!








Apr 23, 04 - Still going to visit the pole

Well, looks like its going to be the end of the WorldWideLearn.com North Pole Solo expedition soon. Though many people tried, and went beyond the call of duty and friendship, we just couldn't make things work for a later pickup from the pole.

I'm very sorry to disappoint so many of you. Sometimes there are forces beyond our control, no matter how hard we try, and we have to accept another path.

I'm not too disappointed though. I'll come back from this expedition with a treasure chest of memories and experiences, pictures, video, and the knowledge that going to the pole helped and changed more than just one man. I'm really elated that people, children and adults, were able to share and partake in my, our, adventure.

I'll still have a few more days here out on the ice. I hope you'll continue to follow along. I'll be going to the North Pole in a day or two, and I'd like to share that experience with you all.

I got such great feedback from you my visitors. I'm really looking forward to sharing my South Pole Solo expedition with you in November. Being able to relate my experience while out on the ice became a much greater reward for me than I ever could have imagined.

Many people have helped me over this
last year to get to this point, a place on the globe that few have or will ever get to. These last few days several people were trying very hard to help arrange a later pickup from the pole so I could continue. Dave Cooper, you really impressed and surprised me. Dr. Rich Lee, unbelievable. Lori Nitahara, amazing. Charlie over at Congresswoman Anna Eshoo's office helped get me medicine I need. My sponsor, Angela Lovett and WorldWideLearn.com have supported me since the day we met.

Even though I am just one man trying to fulfill his dream/goal, there are literally hundreds of people and companies that generously gave to help make this expedition possible. I thank you all!

Continue to follow along on these last days with me. There are likely to be more surprises and adventure. Tomorrow brings another day and with it another day of opportunity, splendor, and the chance to live out your own dreams and passions.

For those that are interested, you can send me an email to be alerted to when the book, DVD, and/or next adventure will start. Send emails to: supporter@northpolesolo.com

And now back to the expedition, it's not over yet!





Apr 22, 04 - Will I stay or will I go?

Sorry my updates have been a bit late these last few days. I know there are many people that read them, look forward to them, and so forth.

All hope is not lost! There's a chance that the expedition may continue! Any chance is better than none. Timing is getting tight, as they are still planning to pick me off the ice in about 36 hours. If I get a commitment for the funds to have a later pickup at the pole, I'll be able to continue.

Either way, whether I get to continue or I get pulled off the ice early, I'm happy. Of course there would always be disappointment if I don't get to continue, but this has been a richly rewarding experience, mostly because I've been able to touch the lives of so many people around the world.

This afternoon I got to speak via satellite phone (thank you World Communication Center, www.wcclp.com), with the Ein Ganim school, Ms. Gorem's class in Israel. Many of the kids had prepared questions, well thought out too, and the whole class sang me a song. It was truly touching and special for me!

In a few minutes I'll speak with Mr. Santana's 3rd grade class at Temple Heights Elementary school in Oceanside, California. Being able to touch these young minds has positive benefits to us all. Hopefully these kids will take their experiences and enthusiasm and apply it towards making our world a better place for us all.

I didn't break camp today, instead I was concentrating on getting everything in place should the funding come through to continue my expedition. I have to arrange for fuel and food resupply, pickup logistics, and a medical supply drop. My doctor, Dr. Rich Lee, went to great lengths to get a package of needed medicines and supplies on its way to me. Thanks again Doc!

My eyes and face swelling is improving. On the inside I'm a 'happy camper', and looks like my exterior will be getting Back to normal soon. My ankle is still painful, but it too us getting better.

I'll get moving fast again in the morning in case the funds come through for me to continue to the pole. Thank you all for your continued support!

Today's update is dedicated to Ms. Johnson's class at Loma Vista Resource school in Whittier, California. Thank you very much for your avid interest and support in this expedition. Get it out there, do your best, and you too can achieve things you never thought possible!





Apr 20, 04 - Take action!

Well, looks like I'll be ending the expedition a bit earlier than I had hoped. They want to take me off the ice this weekend, and without an alternative for getting back to land, I'll have to go.

I will get to go to the pole however, and this pleases me greatly. Ill have accomplished nearly everything I set out to do, at least everything within my power. I know to some it may appear that I didn't succeed at reaching the pole, solo and unsupported, but to me I gained many successes.

I wanted to thank all of the people and children that so graciously wanted to help me continue the expedition. Your thoughts and efforts are deeply moving and truly appreciated. Unfortunately, I needed just over $100,000 in a couple of days - greed is rampant out here.

My eyes are getting better, and I could open both this morning. Still not perfect, but an improvement over yesterday. I did make some miles today, but took it easy.

Of course I had to practice my famous 'faceplant' maneuver, and sure enough, I can still do that fine. I also got to swim today, but didn't have to swim too far, only about 30 feet. It was warm (about 5F), and sunny.

I felt more like a tourist today- until I had to swim. I took lots of beautiful pictures and video. I plan to make a DVD and make it available for others to see more of what my expedition was like. Many have commented on the pictures I take. I use two different Nikon digital cameras, a Coolpix 3100 (most of the pics you see are made with that camera), and a Coolpix 5400. These cameras make creating beautiful pictures easy, thanks Nikon.

I do have a request of all my visitors and people that have been following my expedition. Inspiration is only part of things, you have to take action. Many of you have followed along with my journey, and I've tried to inspire you. Now take that inspiration and take action. Do something nice for someone else, try something new, maybe help your parents, kids, or even yourself - but take action!

There are three words you'll find on my websites; Envision - dare to dream and create a plan. Inspire - get motivated and charged to do your plan. Accomplish - follow your dream or your plan, take action! Without action, inspiration is merely just feeling good. Write me and tell me what you did, how you took inspiration, and then action to accomplish something.

Today's dedication is to Fréderic Chamard-Boudet. He was one of the other solo polar explorers and his expedition ended very early. I think about you everyday Fréderic, often taking steps on the ice and hoping you can hear and see what I'm experiencing, as if it were you out here too. I look forward to seeing you again, and am glad that you made it back home safely.



Apr 19, 04 - Body-imposed rest day

Still in the same place as I was yesterday. I woke up this morning and my eyes were swollen shut. After some hours I got one open, and finally the other has opened a little. It's likely a skin infection from the frostbite around my eyes and face. The good news is that I have the antibiotics to treat them, and hopefully they'll be better within a couple of days. I plan to ski tomorrow so I hope they will function.

I've also been working on solutions to continue the expedition and reach the pole. My title sponsor, WorldWideLearn.com has been wonderful, and they might be able to help, or at least will help me find another source of funds to hopefully continue to the pole. If so, I'll get a resupply of food and supplies this weekend. If I don't get the funding, they will pick me up this weekend.

Fixed my ski binding, I'm really pleased with the repair I made. It should last through the rest of the expedition. I also did a little more sewing.

It was warm today, and I noticed some ice melting inside my tent. It looks beautiful outside, though for me everything is blurry like I'm supposed to be wearing glasses.

I've gotten used to being out here, alone, in a vast open space with thousands of miles of ever-changing ice. Each mile is unique and offers subtle surprises. There seems to be no logic for some of the ice formations, contours, cracks, leads, and other things that make up this forbidden surface. Each day one is also reminded that you are floating on ice, a tenuous surface, and that miles of deep water is always beneath you.

I didn't attempt this quest to reach the North Pole to 'find myself', or discover more about myself. But one thing is certain, this expedition has changed me, probably in ways that will take years to digest.

I've been very fortunate to be able to come here, to pursue my dream. There have been many people that have gone out of their way, the extra mile to help me get here. I feel truly lucky.

Today's update is dedicated to my main expedition doctor, Dr. Rich Lee. He comes from a prestigious lineage of doctors, has been to Mt. Everest and helped many people there, and has gone way beyond the call of duty to help me in so many ways. Thank you very much Dr. Lee for your care, expertise, and friendship. You are truly a gift to humans.





Apr 18, 04 - Never dull in the arctic

Hello, did you have a nice day? Well, it's been mixed for me. I made some good mileage in faster time than ever before. But I also talked to the company that is handling my expedition travel and it wasn't good news.

They will close Borneo earlier this year, on April 29th. This changes things a lot for me. I was also told the ice conditions are horrendous, so no hope of making 15-25 mile days towards the last degrees. So, now I need to find the money to pay for resupplies and a pickup from the pole at a later date, if I am to reach the pole on my own power. I'm working on my options.

I went through tough ice today. There were some nice large pans, but a good share of pressure ridges and open water leads. Fortunately I didn't need to swim today, being creative to cross open sections. A couple of times I skied over very thin ice, being careful not to break through into the frigid ocean water.

Now I'm right at the edge of 86 Degrees latitude! My other ski binding broke, otherwise I would've kept going for a few more miles, but made just about 9. I'll repair it and keep going towards the pole.

Physically I'm a train wreck. Yes, that ankle still hurts with every step, but has been helping me get towards the pole. The bigger issue these last few days has been my eyes. For some reason they have been swelling, nearly shut. My vision is blurry and I've lost most of my depth perception. When I'm outside, after about 7 hours with the cold on my face the swelling goes down and I can see better. It's taking me a long time to write my update, and skiing is certainly a challenge. Waiting for a possible answer/cure/remedy from my doctor. Problem is that I likely don't have anything to treat them with me. Nobody said an expedition to the pole was easy.... But I keep trying!

Today's update is dedicated to the kids at 9th grade Academic Reading & Writing Students of Luther Burbank High School, Paris Elementary School, and the other many schools worldwide. Your interest and feedback in my expedition have made me very happy, even at times nearly brought tears of joy to my eyes. Thank you, and I hope I've had a positive influence on you. Remember, you can make your dreams reality, but only if you try!




Apr 17, 04 - Working hard

Short update today, as it's 2am and I'm very tired.

I started out the day with both of my eyes swollen, nearly shut. I'm having some kind of reaction, but don't know what from.

I pulled the sledge for 15 hours today, barely making 12 miles. I walked into a headwind the entire day and night, and of course it was robbing me of mileage.

I had to swim twice today, and then went through some very rugged ice. I worked hard, and will continue to work hard.

I'll have some news tomorrow about Borneo Ice Station. I got a text message on my satellite phone and I'll find out when they are closing. Which will equal how much time I have to try and reach the pole.

Stay tuned....

No dedication tonight, but tomorrow.




Apr 15, 04 - A typical day?

Another ten miles earned today. It was a beautiful day in the arfice.

I did encounter many areas of pack ice, with some good-sized pans, some pressure ridges, and a few frozen leads. They didn't slow me down too much.

Of course things just wouldn't be right without something breaking. My pulling harness main buckle broke completely. So I tied the ends around me in a knot, it worked for the day but I need a better solution.

Another new problem is I have a painful wound on my face. It's either a moderate case of frostbite, or reaction to the medical tape I've been wearing. It could be a combination of things. Either way, it's painful and itchy.

At least it has been warmer, I typically ski in just my thermal top, no sweater. I also shot some HD video of various polar landscapes.

Gone are the days all I can think about are food, sushi, a hot shower, and so on.... Now, I'm consumed with getting to the pole!

This dispatch is dedicated to Ein Ganim Elementary School in Petach Tikva, Israel. The kids have been very supportive of this expedition.

Time for sleep for me. Good night.








Apr 14, 04 - Making good progress

It was a beautiful Wednesday in the arctic. Strangely, when I got out of the tent this morning it was clear and sunny, and snowing! Not a cloud in the sky, yet snowing.

I worked 13 hours through all kinds of ice, and made just over 12 miles. It was a good day, and I need to repeat it (and better) for the next 20 days or so.

By 6pm clouds rolled in and obscured the sun. The light went flat and it was difficult to see the contour of the surfaces I was moving over. I fell down a couple of times, not knowing if I was traveling up, down, or sideways on a small incline or bump. I continued on for another 3 hours, and it was lightly snowing off and on.

I did see some older bear tracks in the snow earlier. One visitor to my site pointed out that bears are dangerous, and they are. Kids, ask adults how to act around bears, any kind of bear. The things I do on this expedition are unique and should not be attempted by anyone.

My dispatches will become shorter as I work longer towards reaching the pole.

Today's dispatch is dedicated to the 2nd graders at Bells Ferry Elementary School in Marrieta, Georgia. Keep up the good work kids! The new word for today is 'responsibility'.







Apr 13, 04 - 85 degrees!

I know a lot of people were concerned because there were no dispatches, and at some point no website over the weekend. It was simply some technical problems, since resolved.

However, in the future, do not be alarmed if there are no updates for the pole. If there were something major to happen, my basecamp managers would leave a posting on the website. And thank you all for your concern, sorry to worry anybody.

Tuesday at the arfice. Most people don't have the kind of work days I do, but then again most people haven't tried to go to the North Pole.

Today, after just five minutes of pulling, I had to swim a thin-ice lead, about 240 feet wide. Not nearly as horrendous as yesterday. Several hours later I had to swim again, this time only about 60 feet wide.

I'm tired of swimming thin-ice leads, using my back as an icebreaker, and loosing precious time and energy. I hope I don't have to swim anymore, but that's unlikely.

I'll start earlier and work longer to help make the mileage. Sadly, the wind shifted and I'm being blown south. Hopefully it will change again and I'll be drifting north.

It was warm today, for the polar ice cap. I didn't have to put on my frozen down jacket first thing this morning, and it wasn't stiff as a board either. I was nearly skiing in just my thermal underwear by the end of the day. I like it a bit warmer up here.

Oh yeah, made it past 85 degrees latitude. Now I have to push harder and work longer to the pole.

Well, I'm starting to doze off so I'll wrap this up. Today's update is dedicated to Anthony Robbins, the self-help guru. His book Personal Power I consider to be an owners manual for humans. His insight and developments have helped me in many ways over the years. I hope I get to meet him person someday.







Apr 12, 04 - The Big Swim

I like, or should I say, used to like swimming in the arctic, until today.

Today I got an earlier start. Though I did spend a good amount of time chipping the ice out of my boots and liners. They were much more comfortable after that.

During the morning I shot some video; of me pulling, going through a pressure ridge, the surrounding area and so on. I got some good video today.

At around 1pm I came to a wide, thin in-ice and open water lead. I looked to the right and it looked if there was nothing but ocean water. Looking to the left the open lead went on as far as I could see.

I decided I should put on the dry suit and swim the 250-300 yards across. I put on the suit, and strapped the video camera onto the top of the sledge to film myself. I figured it would take around an hour to swim across and get out of the dry suit.

I walked out onto the thin ice and fell through after about 30 feet. I rolled on my back and started breaking the ice with my back and 'swimming', while towing the sledge with a rope.

This went on forever. The ice was about 3 inches thick at first, then got thinner. I could only move about 4-6 inches forward at a time. In the center of the lead was about 40 yards of open water, no ice. It was easier to swim in this area.

I also saw a ring seal, it was watching me thrash my way across the lead. I was hoping that it wouldn't bother me, and it didn't.

I finally made it to the other side. Got the dry suit off, which had leaked and let in water, soaking my boot and back. It took me 3 hours to swim the lead and get the dry suit off.

I was a bit mad, and thoroughly exhausted. I lost good time that I could've been making mileage with.

At the end of the day I came to another open water lead with steam rising from it. It was 'only' about 130 feet wide, but I was too tired to swim it and backtracked a few hundred yards and made camp.

My swim today was likely the longest polar expedition swim ever made. I'd rather not do it again, once was enough.

In the morning I'll likely have to swim another lead. At least I made okay mileage today, 9.5 miles.

Today's dispatched is dedicated to polar king Borge Ousland. He was the first person to successfully complete a solo and unsupported expedition to the North Pole.







Apr 11, 04 - Closer to the pole

My best mileage day yet! 11.5 miles, in 9 hours of skiing. I worked hard and the ice was pretty good most of the day.

I've been getting late starts, but am trying to get out earlier in the morning. Crawling out of a warm sleeping bag has been hard for me. I'd rather stay comfy and toasty, than face the frost and putting on the stiff, frozen jacket.

But eventually I get out of the bag and start my day. I won't have to do very much equipment repair tonight (just a little sewing on my gloves), so hopefully I can get a good nights rest.

My binding repair is working okay, not 100%, but it's getting me some miles. Hopefully nothing else will break....

Well, a short dispatch today, as I want to get some rest. I hope you have a great Sunday.

Today's dispatch is dedicated to explorer Dave Mills. He was the first explorer to help me out, and is a true inspiration. Thanks for all of your help Dave!


Apr 10, 04 - Bear stories....

Here in the arctic, you have to be careful what you say and/or think. Until today, I had experienced every aspect of an expedition to the North Pole - except for one thing.

I started the day out late. Woke up a bit late, and spent a good deal of time repairing more gear, mostly my sledge. I was able to fix it, and get rid of a couple of pounds as well.

The ice was mostly really nice today. Large flat pans, with about two dozen leads and a dozen or so pressure rides. The leads varied, from frozen, to open water.

I have some bear stories/experiences, dating back from when I was just a baby. All of them true. Once, on my first solo trip to Yosemite Valley for a month of climbing at age 13, I had a bear poo on my sleeping bag, while I was sleeping in it!

Timing is everything. Around 5pm, as I was working hard and pulling my sledge, something was moving off to my left, facing into the sun. I stopped and looked, and there were three polar bears! A mother and her two cubs. They had been walking the same direction as I, and were only about 50 feet away.

As soon as I stopped, they stopped. I quickly grabbed my camera inside my sweater and took a picture. Then I went to my sledge, to get my - videocamera! I wasn't afraid based on the polar bears body language. As I got my videocamera and better digital camera the bears slowly approached me.

The bears had positioned themselves directly downwind, and mother was taking in big whiffs of my scent. The cubs stayed at moms back legs as they came closer.

Meanwhile I'm trying to get my camcorder battery warmed up, and am blowing on it with the warm air from my mouth.

When the bears were about 25 feet away I figured I better let the mother know I'm not a potential dinner for her and her cubs. I let out a 'wu-wu-wu-wu-wu', which sounded like a broken children's toy. The bears stopped, and the cubs hid behind mom's legs. Slowly mom backed away from me, but never taking her eyes off of me.

I finally got the videocamera running when the bears were about 70 feet away. Then I started talking very sweetly to them. I told them I wouldn't hurt them, and they had nothing to fear from me. I also told them I was going to the North Pole, and I pointed towards north a couple of times.

Then I started calling the bears back to me, slapping my leg and encouraging them to come closer, just like you would a dog. And they came! They stopped about 50 feet away and listened to me talk. I was trying to film them, and also get high-res digital pictures.

After a few minutes mom backed away, but always kept here eyes on me and walked backwards away from me. I guess she understood that I was going north, and she and the cubs began walking south.

I continued to take a few more pictures, and said goodbye to them. I do carry a shotgun, but have been keeping it buried at the bottom of my sledge, I often don't bring it in the tent at night. I never thought for a moment I would need it.

I wasn't afraid of the mother polar bear and her two very cute cubs. I can't say I'd feel the same way about an encounter with an aggressive male polar bear.

When the bears were out of sight, I felt excited, warm, and peaceful. I also knew for sure that I will reach the pole, and felt even better.

Today's update is dedicated to Bettina Aller, another polar explorer making her way to the North Pole this very moment. She had relayed many polar bear stories to me, and after hearing them I felt less afraid of a possible encounter. I hope you and Jean-Gabriele are well.


Apr 9, 04 - A very nice Friday, almost

It's near midnight here. The sun is still shining and if I didn't have a watch I wouldn't be able to tell what time of day, or night, it is.

I had a really nice day, up until the last half hour of pulling. It was a relatively warm day, I even spent most of it without my face mask. The sun was shinning bright enough that I finally put on my sunglasses. The sky was exceptionally clear, and the headwind was minimal.

The ice wasn't too friendly, but I managed to make 7 miles today. There was plenty of dense pack ice and deep snow. I also crossed several thin-ice leads, and a couple of open water leads. I used my sledge as a bridge and ran across the top to get past the open water.

I was in a great mood most of the day. Perhaps because I had several pieces of chocolate, or because I've reduced how much medication I've been taking for my various injuries.

Not wearing a face mask produced icicles hanging from my beard and moustache around my mouth. A few times my mouth was frozen somewhat closed, but breaking some of the ice off my face allowed me to open my mouth again.

I spent a good amount of my day thinking about some of my other goals I want to accomplish. For instance, I very much want to choreograph the water fountains at the Bellagio Resort in Las Vegas. If anyone out there knows Mr. Wynn, please put in a good word for me.

The last couple of hours of the day brought me to nice, flat pans. It was the last half hour that things started to go wrong. First, the climbing skin from one of my skis started to fall off. I made a quick temporary fix with some duct tape.

After about 15 minutes of pulling I broke my other ski binding cable. Ugh, I don't have any more spares. So, I looked for a place to pitch the tent, set it up, and spent nearly four hours fixing my binding, ski skin, and sewing some holes in one of my gloves.

I don't know how well, or long the binding repair will last. I'll find out tomorrow. I also have to fix my sledge in the morning before I can get moving. The arctic is hard on equipment, and bodies.

Today's update is dedicated to fellow polar explorer Ben Saunders. I hope he is doing well and I wish him all the luck necessary to reach the pole!


Apr 8, 04 - What's that noise?

Much better day today. I had lots of good ice and my spirits are back to normal. For those that don't know me personally, I tend to be a very upfront and honest person. Which also probably comes across in my dispatches, as I relay how I feel, and what is going on with me.

With my injuries, and the other issues (bad ice and weather, pain, Dominique) I got to feeling a bit down. But at no point have I ever thought about quitting. If I can't make any forward progress for some reason (further injuries, etc...), then I might consider stopping. But rest assured, I am not going to quit!

I also just spoke to my basecamp manager and he said honestly that I have a very good chance of reaching the pole. So, I'll continue to try my hardest. My ankle is painful with each step, but I don't dwell on the issue, I can't afford to.

After about an hour of nice ice I came to a lead with ice too thin to walk on, and water in the center. I got out my dry suit and decided to 'paddle' while lying on my sledge. A risky maneuver because my sledge is easy to capsize, and if that happens it can mean serious trouble. I made it across the 35-foot wide lead, almost tipping several times, but kicked with my legs to stay upright. Halfway across I thought to myself, if any polar bears are watching they are probably thinking that this is strange. I chuckled to myself.

I reached a floating 'island' of ice and slid off my sledge onto it. As soon as I did, that piece of ice started to move, and sink. I quickly stepped onto another piece of ice and it sank faster. Finally with about 4 or 5 hops to and from ice pieces I made it to firm ice.

Several hours later, I came to a very large thin-ice frozen lead, about three-quarters of a mile wide. After about 10 minutes across it I stopped as I heard an unusual squeal noise.

My first thought was it was a submarine , and I looked all around for one. Nope. Then I thought it might be the sound of whales beneath me, it sounded like it. It made me nervous so I continued on my way. Maybe my dragging a sledge across the ice sounds interesting to whales, I thought to myself as I hurried across.

Then about in the middle of the lead the noise was more prominent. I was heading closer to a crack, and happened to see movement, and open water. As I got closer I realized the sound I had been hearing was the ice in motion. The lead was moving and swaying, and standing still it felt like being in a mild earthquake.

The 'crack' was opening wider at one place, and getting narrower at another. I quickly made my way to the narrow spot and crossed. The ice was moving about an inch a second, half going one way, while the other half of the lead was going the opposite direction.

I quickly continued on my way across, resting once I reached firm ice. The rest of my day was filled with a few pans, some dense pack ice, and more leads and pressure ridges. An interesting Thursday....

Today's update is dedicated to my basecamp managers, Tom and Tina Sjogren (T&T), of Explorersweb.com The only couple in the world to have conquered Mt. Everest, and both the North and South Poles - together. They are a true inspiration to me and have generously helped in many ways for this expedition. Thank you so much!<


Apr 7, 04 - So many leads

I felt better today. Not that it was any easier, in fact I crossed through the most horrendous ice yet.

Of course I had to start the day with breaking a tent polewhile taking down the tent. That makes number 4. I repaired it in the evening, then was able to set up my tent. And I repaired my sledge as best as I could before starting off this morning.

From the start this morning I encountered many, many leads. Not the kind with nice, frozen, smooth ice over them, but with icy rubble and chaos. The inside of the leads looked like pressure ridges themselves.

There were also the largest and widest pressure ridges I have seen. I worked from 9:30am until 5pm crossing over ridges and leads before I got to any pans. It was unbelievable, and made me wonder what am I doing out here.

But eventually I got out of the web of leads and pressure ridges. I calculated I must have crossed over 80 leads today. Insane.

A few of the leads had open water in the middle flanked by thin ice. As I crossed you could see the ice flex from my weight and the water surge in the middle. Not a comforting sight.

The good thing for me was I started to formulate some contingency plans. My bum ankle is slowing me down, and the May 3rd deadline is weighing heavily on me. I started to think that perhaps I can get a pickup at a later date. Maybe if I'm running far behind I can get resupplied and picked up. The way I feel now is I'd rather get support (resupplies) and make it to the pole, rather than only make it part of the way.

I'm still trying to make it to the pole in time, but I might have some options to help insure success. I've accomplished 90% of what I planned to do, but I want that last 10% - to reach the pole.

I'd like to dedicate this dispatch to my former Scoutmaster of Troop 46, Jim Wilson. I often think of him when I'm doing things out here. He had the patience and enthusiasm to teach me a lot about being outdoors. Without those skills I learned, I wouldn't be able to survive out here. Thanks JW!


Apr 6, 04 - One of those days

Enough! Enough challenge, toil, sweat, effort, pain, misery, suffering, ice, bad weather, negative ice drift, danger, and broken body parts and gear. Enough of everything but good luck it seems. Don't get me wrong, I'm not going to quit, but some better luck sure would be nice.

Today I encountered lots of pack ice, many fresh leads, some pans, and a few gigantic pressure ridges. For a full day's work I barely made 6 miles.

I crossed the largest pressure ridge yet, and it was dangerous and challenging. I even had to duck from a flying sledge at one point, landing just beside me.

I also found out my sledge is broken, which I'll try and repair in the morning. Right now it will let water come in, not good.

About 20 minutes after I discovered my broken sledge, and got through the huge and wide pressure ridge, the binding on my ski broke. Fortunately I had a spare ski and binding, but now can't afford any more ski or binding breakage.

It was mostly clear and sunny, though I was skiing into a mild headwind all day. It's supposed to be warmer, -15, but with the wind it's still very cold. Several times I closed my eyes, only to have them freeze shut. And my face mask was freezing to my beard, ouch. I had icicles 4 inches long hanging from my face mask. Sorry, didn't take a picture, too busy trying to stay warm.

But I keep hanging in there. I stopped a little earlier tonight to get some good rest. And hopefully tomorrow will bring a better day, more miles, no breakage, and all that good stuff.

I'd like to dedicate today's dispatch to my friends. They've stood by me, seen me through difficult and adventurous times, and have helped me in various ways over the years. Friends like JohnAndrea, Antoni, Frank, Seabreeze, Johnny, Jason, Gel, Yoko, Lori, Lyle, Dave, and many, many others. Thank you for your friendship and support.

The picture is of a frozen piece of oatmeal. I spilled some oatmeal, rather than clean it up, I waited a little while until it froze, then broke it apart.


Apr 5, 04 - 84 Degrees!

Another latitude! For us polar explorers, each latitude is a significant milestone. I'm told the ice is supposed to improve, it'll get warmer, and I can cross a latitude in 3 or 4 days.

I worked, and got worked today. There were many pressure ridges, some pans, and a few large frozen leads. It was tough going, but made nearly 7 miles.

The pressure ridges were difficult and I had to remove my skis to cross many of them. Of course I pulled a muscle in my right shoulder. Seems like I'm falling apart, but I also know that this is the most strenuous activity I've ever done, under the most extreme conditions. Oh yeah, also performed my famous face plant maneuver several times.

I also earned a couple of blisters on my left foot, even wore a couple of holes through the sock. None of which compare with the ankle. At times today I had to straighten my ski to get my foot pointing in the right direction.

At one point I was pulling and soon was buried up to my knees in snow. I quickly realized I had skied into a lead that had snow covering it from sight. I got out of it without getting wet, but made my pulse race.

The sun was out, with little to no clouds. The wind shifted a bit and I'm no longer getting a northerly drift, only westward. Darn.

At the end of the day I crossed over several leads that were just an hour or so old. Ice was just beginning to form, and the black water made me a bit nervous. I continued until I was well past them before making camp.

That was my Monday. I'd like to dedicate today's update to my main sponsor, WorldWideLearn.com Our philosophies and vision are similar, and without their vision in me and my quest, I may not be here right now. A special congratulations to Angela and Steve! Visit their website for your online educational needs; www.worldwidelearn.com


Apr 4, 04 - I've got a date with the pole, and I hate to be late

It was a very windy day, but I got out and got moving. I'm determined to reach the pole!

This morning my ankle was very painful just moving around in the tent. I made my ankle a deal; I told it if it got me to the North Pole, I would get it repaired, buy it new shoes, get it massages, and take it on vacation to Hawaii. I think it accepted the deal, as it let me make another 8 miles today.

I took my time packing up and got a late start. At one point, I was taking out a sleeping pad and the wind grabbed a hold of it. I ran after it with all my might, after about 35 feet I finally had to dive on it and tackle my pad. It gave me a laugh.

The ice was pretty good for the first five miles. Lots of nice-sized pans, small pressure ridges, and many large, frozen leads. Though pulling the sledge through the deep snow was like dragging it through oatmeal.

Eventually I came to the worst ice I've seen to date. Hugh pressure ridges and scattered leads, as far as I could see. I tried to skirt around the icy chaos but finally had to go in. My ankle held up pretty good, and I've adjusted how I pull through the blocks of ice as to not strain my ailing limb.

After nearly two miles of pressure ridges and dozens of semi-frozen leads the ice started to open up a bit again. I decided not to push myself too hard and made camp.

The wind never relented and is beating my tent with a vengeance. I made dinner, warmed my hands a bit, and have crawled into my sleeping bag for another polar night.

I was in good spirits, not a bad Sunday at the arfice. I even started to enjoy myself through the rough ice. When I started moving this morning it was if I could hear thousands of voices yelling "Go Wave, Go!" I truly appreciate all of your encouragement, it does help.

I'd like to dedicate this dispatch to my web designer, Olivier D'Arceaux, of odxcreative.com He created my expedition website, and it far exceeded my expectations. He's a very talented designer. If you're in need of a top-quality website, get in touch with him. And check out some of the other sites he's done, very elegant, functional and attractive. Thanks Olivier! www.odxcreative.com


April 3, 04 - Please, No more snow

Mother Nature also decided I needed another day to help recover my ankle, so she's provided me with high winds and lots of snow. I had a lot of snow build-up around my tent, and went out to clear it before it collapsed my tent or broke some tent poles. It continued to snow off and on all day long. At least I'm drifting in the right direction.

I've 'patched' up my ankle using duct tape. I followed my doctors instructions, and the tape job seems to help. I'll go back to the factory for refurbishing when I get home.

I thought it was kind of funny when my expedition doctor told me to make sure to bring duct tape. He said it's highly useful for all kinds of injuries, and he wasn't kidding. And my ankle is feeling better.

With some hard work and therapy I should be ready to tackle the South Pole, again solo and unsupported, by November 2004. I'm looking for a major corporate sponsor, so if you or you know someone that would like to join in to help me reach the South Pole, please contact me. Fortunately, the South Pole is much easier, you don't have to worry about falling into the ocean or being attacked by polar bears.

I haven't had too many food cravings, but at lunch today it would have been nice to taste a sip of cola. Then I remembered that Willy Wonka makes a candy, my favorite candy, Bottle Caps. I wished I would've brought some of those along. They are hard to find in my area (not just the North Pole). Hear that Mr. Wonka? If you'd like to send me some Bottle Caps, I won't mind!

A recurring question that I haven't answered yet; How do I find a safe place to pitch my tent? Well, I look for 'old ice', it's thicker and (usually) more stable. Then I look to see if there are any cracks nearby, no matter how thin they might appear. Then, lastly I search for a spot that has a good amount of snow, so my tent stakes will work (can't use them on solid ice). Lots of snow also helps me determine old ice. I also stay away from open leads, as that's where polar bears like to hunt for ring seals.

I'd like to dedicate this update to you, following my expedition, no matter who or where you are. It helps me to know that I'm having a positive impact on others, and I truly appreciate and thank you for your comments!


Apr 2, 04 - Broken ankle, I'm still going for the pole!

Again in my tent. Today is a rest day imposed by my doctor, and he'd prefer I take two days. I can barely handle one.

I called my doctor last night about my right ankle. I injured it some days ago, but it's been getting progressively worse. Yesterday by the end of the day I could hardly walk, and taking my boot off was not fun.

Turns out, I've got a busted ankle. It's either that I broke the end of my tibia leg bone, or tore several ligaments that help hold and control the foot to the leg. Yes, it hurts.

So today I am resting, trying to reduce the swelling, and repair it as best as I can. I'm using duct tape to create an ankle support, following my doctors instructions.

I still plan to continue on my quest to reach the pole, bum ankle and all. I once told a reporter that I would drag myself to the pole with a busted leg if I had to - and I was serious. Heck, I've already traveled more than 20 miles on it.

Last night it started snowing again, and has been off and on during the day. Seems Mother Nature is throwing everything she has at me. I keep hoping for better weather and ice conditions. And some new body parts - I know that isn't going to happen for awhile, so I'll settle on better ice and weather.

But aside from the injuries, the many pieces of broken equipment (my harness hip belt broke yesterday too), I try to think positive and persevere. I know that I have just 31 days to reach the pole. 31 short days, where I will try my hardest and best. If nothing else, I will be able to come home and say that I tried my best.

I saw a helicopter in the distance today. I was told that they would search for Dominique, and then be flying towards Borneo to select a site to create the floating ice station. I saw the chopper hover over where Ben Saunders might be, several miles away. Maybe he was getting some resupply or they were just saying 'hi'.

I think about Dominique every hour or so. She's likely to become the Amelia Earhart of the polar world. I like to keep thinking that she's skiing on a large beautiful piece of ice with a pleasant smile on her face, and the sun warming her body.

It was recently recommended to me that I dedicate my daily updates. So, this dispatch is dedicated to Dominique Arduin, whose spirit, ambition, and perseverance should be a positive example to us all.


April 1, 04 - No April Fools Day out here

Made a bit of progress today, but took lots of effort and long hours. I really want to reach the pole!

Got some encouraging news today. There's a man, Marek Kaminski, that made it to the pole some years ago, and was about the same latitude at the same time as I am now. Also Bettina is reporting that the ice has gotten much better. So I may still have a chance to reach the poke.

Though there seems to be a problem with my ankle. I'm going to check with my expedition doctor. Several days ago it was hurting, more than my other body parts. Then, going through a large pressure ridge, my bigger sledge crashed down on my ankle pinning it against a block of ice. Ouch. Today it was extremely painful and I kind of just drug my foot along. Hopefully it's not broken.

I encountered the largest lead yet today. It was hundreds of yards wide. Fortunately it was frozen over enough to travel on. There was also plenty of pack ice, and some decent-sized pans.

There was good sunshine for most of the day, and the wind wasn't as fierce as it was yesterday. At the end of my day it started to snow. Ugh. I don't need anymore snow! It makes dragging the sledge much harder.

I finally said goodbye to my little sledge today. It was always the plan to use it for the first 4 weeks or so, and then donate it to the ice. I wrote my name and contact info in it in case someone finds it some day.

That's it for today. My hands are cold so I'll stop and time to sleep.