Redeployment- fancy word for going home

I am back on another rock enjoying the warm sunshine, salt ocean, fresh fruit and veggies and the company of good friends.  

I just wanted to thank everyone for reading my updates and responding with such kind words or keeping me updated with what is going on in your lives.  I feel like I know a bunch of you better through this process. 

One last story before I sign off...as you have heard before the people in Antarctica are amazing.  One special thing they do when you leave is called a hug line.  It is when everyone who is staying and can leave work comes up to the building where you catch your shuttle to the air field.  They all stand in a line in the loading bay of the building and as you get checked off the manifest you run this gauntlet of people who are surrounding you with hugs as you leave.  It is just so heart warming and special that people take time out of their work day to come say goodbye.  

Some of you might be asking what is next for Gillian.  Thanks to some of my ice friends I was able to get a job up in Alaska this summer working for Alaska Wildland Adventures as a Boat Captain at their back country lodge.  Some of you might not know that when I am not scrubbing toilets in Antarctica I am usually found working on boats.  I am excited for the opportunity to get more experience driving boats and some time to explore Alaska. 

Being down in Antarctica was amazing and such a life changing experience.  I am hoping to go back to Antarctica next summer season hopefully in a different department.  

Thanks again for reading.
A Hui Hou (Until we meet again)