Day 3

Question of the day: What is the estimated population of polar bears in the churchill area?
Breakfast was eaten in a hurry so we could dress for Arctic weather. Once out on the plantation the mosquitoes were no longer a problem. However, hypothermia was in the back of our minds. We soon became engrossed in fondling the delicate trees and forgot about the cold. Lisa said this activity gave new meaning to being a “tree hugger”. With palm pocket in hand we counted our way through 50 or more trees before going to lunch. Well maybe that was a little exaggeration. I can’t forget we did see a ptarmigan and an arctic fox.
The trek to Churchill was one of beauty. Every turn of the road seemed to present an amazing landscape. The pack ice in the Hudson was like clouds floating in a crystal blue sky. In our minds bears and seals seemed to lurk around every bend in the road. Our First sight of interest was the school, church, hospital, swimming pool, curling, and yes that was one building. We took a back road (they are all back roads) and followed the Hudson Bay in search of beluga whales, seals and the notorious polar bear. The van filled with excitement when the snowy white back of a beluga was sighted by Lisa. Peter slowed down so we could get a quick glimpse. The van continued to roll along the Hudson Bay until Peter pulled over for a “photo op”. Unfortunately for me and others we had so many cute tree pictures that our batteries were dead on our memory card were full. Those tree pictures will impress our students much more than beluga whales and pack ice. With sun shining on the partially frozen bay we all took numerous pictures of Arctic beauty. Once again we piled in the vehicle and in a short time the van pulled off the road for a seal search. Peter spotted some seals and binoculars were passed around. Luanne was sure she had a polar bear sighting. We thought that sighting might be as good as it gets so we just all agreed with her.
Supper was good as always. A quick bite and off to hear Peter speak about Peat lands. I am glad we get the notes because I am trying to trace the memories of the day. Well, signing off. Don't forget to answer the question of the day.