Chris and I spend hours running on the trails together. We use this time to discuss life, dreams, and what expedition tasks still need to be completed. Our main topic as we approach departure day, though, is how will it feel to leave our son at home as mom and dad head out on an expedition for about two months. We feel very fortunate that we’re a very close-knit family of three; we play games in the evening, enjoy dinner as a family, and love to explore and travel, and in general spend much of our time with each other. In some ways this will make it much more difficult to go on this expedition, but I also believe it will provide us with an inner source of strength.
We began discussing the possibility of a South Pole expedition over three years ago when Keenan was 9-years old. He turns 12 years old two days before we leave. Over the last three years he watched us plan, train, and sometimes agonize. He would ask questions, and a couple times said he didn’t want us to go. Over the last year, though, he’s been an enthusiastic supporter, maturing to a level that makes us swell with pride. He now focuses on following us on our journey as we strive to make our goal.
Our last few weeks before departure are spent making sure everything is as stable for Keenan as possible. While we are gone, he’ll stay at our home and a wonderful group of family and friends will rotate in and out of our house every 8-10 days to care for him. We think this will also be quite an adventure for him! Keenan’s school, St. Joseph, has displayed a large map of Antarctica on their bulletin board and he’ll mark our daily progress as the entire school follows along. We can’t thank them enough for the support they’ve shown all three of us.
Going on a South Pole expedition, even in 2013, is still unique and magical. Experiencing this adventure with my wife Chris feels like the adventure of a lifetime, and our son Keenan will be with us the entire journey.
Thank you to Thomas and Tina Sjogren for paving the way as the first married couple to ski to the South Pole. They were also self-guided, unassisted, and unsupported.
Good luck guys – will be following along!
Thanks Tom and Tina!
I’m all choked up. Been talking about you guys for the past week, sharing your expedition news. Been thinking about you even more and cheering you on from here.
Much love,
Lynne
Thanks Lynne, we can feel your love and support. Thanks so much. Excited to have you follow along!
Can’t wait to watch your progress. So excited for you. At first I couldnt understand why you would want to do this. I get it now and looking forward to what you will accomplish. I will be praying for your safety.
Thanks Nan. It means a lot to us to know you’ll be following along and praying for us.
Thinking of you as you prepare to leave for this amazing adventure! I cannot imagine how much planning and training have been involved. You are super parents in many ways and Keenan will be in great loving hands! I can’t wait to follow your travels! You are surrounded by tons of loving support to keep you safe and warm!
Love from Colorado! Amy and family
Thanks so much for your loving support. Glad you’ll be following along!
Watching you guys all the way to success.
Thanks Jim!
Marty and Chris,
Wow, I can’t believe the time is almost here. Frank and I are so excited for the both of you and will be following along and praying. We are also blessed and honored to be able to spend time with Keenan while you are gone. He is going to do great! Can’t wait to hear all about what you both learned while you were away. Thank you for being such great ambassadors of the United Sates!
Thanks Sue! Just knowing that you and Frank are back here caring for Keenan and making sure that everything goes well gives us comfort and peace. We couldn’t do this without your help.
Good luck Marty and Chris!
What an exciting time for all of you. We will be praying for a successful trip and safe return. We’ll be following along from here in Ohio. Can’t wait to hear all about the trip.
Thanks so much Deb!