I had an interesting conversation with one of the security guards here at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) just a few minutes ago. The conversation went something like this slightly stylized version:

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Security guard: Do you know where Mary* is? I noticed her car wasn’t in the parking lot last night.

Me: Hmm… haven’t seen her recently.

Security guard: I know she’s been working in New York, so I sent her an email to make sure the car was okay. But I got one of those away messages.

Me: Oh yes! That’s right. I forgot– she’s in Antarctica. The car is back this morning. I bet a friend just borrowed it.

Security guard: Antarctica?

Me: She probably has email there.  Don’t worry. She’ll probably reply soon.

Security guard: Antarctica? Isn’t it winter there?

Me: Yes, but I think she’s on a ship.

Security guard: On a ship in Antarctica in winter? Crazy scientists.

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Yes, we scientists are crazy. Speaking of which, I need to hurry on to my labwork. On Sunday morning. On a holiday weekend.

*Name changed to protect the identity of the crazy scientist.