Coordinates: N 66. 09.00, W 66. 19.00
Distance Traveled: 24 mi/ 37km
Temperature: -15 °F/ -26°C
Wind: 35 MPH/ 56KPH
Cloud Cover: Clear skies
Sunrise: 6:08 a.m.
Sunset: 5:04 a.m.

All night long we heard the wind on the tent and felt the sides pressing in on us. It was certainly cozy to be snuggled in our sleeping bags. 5:45 a.m. rolled around, however, and we had to wake up and face the day. The winds were intimidating and our bivy sacks blew horizontally as we carried them to the sled.

Visibility was limited due to blowing snow on the ground. Way up ahead of us, we could barely make out the shape of Lukie's sled through the snowy haze. He and Theo were alternating running and riding behind their dogs. Tonight I finally caught up with Lukie in the tent that he shares with Simon. I was able to talk with him a bit about what brought him to the expedition, while Simon so graciously translated.

Lukie, in his mid-sixties, is a model of athleticsm and endurance. He manages his sled and team with agility and determination. In a group, Lukie is quiet with a warm smile. We communicate with him mainly through Theo and Simon, as he does not speak much English. I enjoyed the chance to sit down with Lukie tonight and hear more of his personal story.