Tag Archives: Prince Harry of Wales

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#Topstories

Polar bears on the sea ice of the Arctic Ocean...

Image via Wikipedia

#JackieRichardson was the number one keyword search that brought new readers to this blog. The irreplaceable Ms. Jackie has lost the top spot to two searches that indicate trending issues.

People Seeking Information about Tumblr

I’m not the only one who had problems with tumblr’s email confirmation. Based on the number of people who drop by my site to read that post, the problem is ongoing. Note to tumblr’s boffins – your to-do list is missing an item.

Prince Harry in Antarctica

People, you must trust polarprisca on this…HRH was not in Antarctica this year. He was in the Arctic. Harry didn’t tell his grandmother he was going to walk part way to the North Pole, because he didn’t want to worry her. Thoughtful lad.

I met an octogenarian when I sailed to the North Pole who hadn’t told the management of his senior’s home where he was going, for exactly the same reason. True story.

An extra hit of adrenalin

Some people ride roller-coasters, jump out of airplanes, or travel to war zones for an extra hit of adrenaline. My personal choice are the polar regions – the Arctic and Antarctica. Because the danger is basic – humankind against the elements.

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Prince Harry in Antarctica – NOT!

One of the benefits of using WordPress for my blog is the ability to see the search words people used to arrive here. Jackie Richardson is a very popular search. Currently – Prince Harry in Antarctica – is the most popular.

Prince Harry is not visiting Antarctica. He was earlier today marching across the Arctic Ocean with his comrades. Antarctica is not the Arctic. The Arctic is the High North. Antarctica is the High Southern latitudes.

From an online marketing perspective I am fascinated that a seeker can be completely wrong, yet be successful in their search. There is a lesson in that!

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Remainder Bins – From Pole to Pole

I visited an English bookshop a short while ago, and was gobsmacked to find an entire section devoted to polar books. Not a shelf, or a subsection under history…but a separate section 10 feet high and 3 feet across. Surmise from my surprise that you can’t find such a thing here in North America.

Remainder Bins – Search and Save

For North Americans, the simplest way to find the polar books is to spend a few minutes rooting through the remainder bins – the discount book bins that every bookshop has. While at lunch today, I found The Arctic: Edited by Elizabeth Kolbert at 60% off; North-East Passage to Muscovy, by Kit Mayers at 75% off and a Complete Guide to Arctic Wildlife by Richard Sale also at 75% off.

The current books, hardcover and at full cost, were scattered around the store. Sara Wheeler’s book – The Magnetic North was in the Travel section. The trade paperback of Adrian Raeside‘s Return to Antarctica was on the history shelf.

If you’re in a hurry and looking for a polar read stop by the discount bins. And bring a full wallet!

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Good Works and Good Will HRH Harry

I admit that when I read that Prince Harry was joining the Walking with the Wounded expedition to the North Pole I was worried. Not for Harry nor for the vets whose efforts will raise money for a British charity that assists injured servicemen and servicewomen. I was worried that he wouldn’t make it to the church on time.

Needless worry on my part. The plan is for Harry to participate in the first week of the month long expedition. Then return to his duties as a soldier and a prince. One of those princely duties is patron of the Walking with the Wounded charity. Harry is putting more than his name on the line for the organization.

I’ve seen Arctic Ocean ice. I know that it won’t be smooth hauling for the four vets who will complete the mission. Pressure ridges must be climbed. Leads must be crossed. Bitterly cold temperatures must be survived. The expedition occurs in April, so the members won’t have 24 hours of sunlight to assist them.

Remembrance of our veterans – in any country currently at war – should not be limited to November 11 ceremonies. Say thank you to the vets you know. Support the charities of your choice. Make an informed decision when you vote so that our armed forces personnel are properly equipped and cared for when they are injured. It is the least we can do for those who have volunteered for the front lines.