Penguin mania countdown: 243 days.

Early Wednesday three... Three favorite excerpts from my "Preparing for your adventure ship expedition to Antarctica" booklet I received yesterday, in no particular order:

• "There may be an opportunity for a polar plunge during the voyage, so we recommend that you pack a swimsuit."
• "Our expedition members are independent-minded travelers from around the world with a strong interest in exploring remote regions."
• "Fur seals are usually dangerous, therefore keep a greater distance than 5 meters from them at all times."