You know that volcano in Alaska? It’s been canceling flights into Dutch Harbor. (Not the volcano itself. I don’t think it calls and cancels. The airline cancels the flights. But I digress.) Dutch Harbor is the place I have to fly to next Wednesday. (Oh my god. Next Wednesday. Do you know how soon that is? Soon. And I leave here Tuesday. Which is even sooner.)

So I was very relieved just now to see this in a mass e-mail from the chief scientist: “Note also that I am not planning to sail without you if the volcano delays your arrival into Dutch.”

I hope that applies to the science writer, too. I understand that I’m not 100% essential personnel on this cruise. But probably if I’m delayed, scientists will be, too.