I just got home from the Minus 5 degree bar, which was hilarious. You get dressed up in a heavy snow coat, gloves and mittens, and for stupid women who wore strappy heels, special moon boots. Then you pass through what is more or less a freezer door, into a bar where the temperature is at least below five degrees Celsius, and drink vodka drinks out of glasses made of ice, surrounded by ridiculous ice sculptures, even the bar is made of ice.

It was especially appropriate because my coworker is heading to Antarctica tomorrow. We had fun giving her shit. Also, I have to say, as a born-and-bred Minnesotan, minus five is absolutely nothing. Talk to me when you've been standing out on the corner for a half hour in thirty below, your hair is frozen and your nostrils stick together when you breathe. Bring it on...

Earlier, however, I went out to Mission Bay to meet my Antarctic-bound coworker, who has graciously offered me her beachside apartment while she's away, and her guest room for the rest of my NZ stay. I hadn't been out there before, but it's absolutely gorgeous. So long, pod hotel! Mission Bay is what I imagine living on a Calif. beach would be like - I got off the bus there, and was immediately surrounded by about 3,000 bikers, runners, and rollerbladers, enjoying the spring sunshine. There's a really cute strip of trendy bars and restaurants, where everyone is sitting outside on patios, people watching and enjoying the water views. There's a park along the beach with a huge fountain and palm trees. Kayakers were out on their nightly crossing to Rangitoto island. I absolutely love it. And in said coworker's apt., there's room to stretch without knocking shit over. I can't wait! I'm moving tomorrow night, and there's no turning back!