Blog Your Way to the North Pole

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Not a moment missed

Michael Mezeul II December 01, 2010 | 09:26 PM

The irritating sound of the alarm clock rings through the air. If this were any other day, I would happily smash the snooze button and plant my face back into the pillow, but today is not just another day. It is springtime on the Great Plains and Mother Nature is preparing a recipe for disaster.

The sun has just crept over the horizon to welcome a brand new day. I crawl out of bed, throw on the nearest pair of clothes, and double check my camera bag making sure not a lens is missed. Assured that I have all that I need, I step foot out of my apartment, not knowing if I will ever return.

The air is thick with moisture and a strong southerly winds blast in from the Gulf of Mexico. There’s an eerie feeling lofting in the air. Checking the latest weather data on my laptop, I finalize my destination, top off the truck, and grab a “healthy” breakfast at the local gas station. I am now on my way to stare certain death in the eye.

A few hundred miles later, I find myself sitting patiently in a golden wheat field in Kansas. Small cumulus clouds begin to clutter the sky and a rapid change is taking place in the atmosphere. Within minutes, a gigantic supercell thunderstorm has erupted and tornado sirens begin to howl through the air. Goose bumps rise up on my arms and the adrenaline begins to pump.

Pacing with the storm and doing my best to avoid the baseball sized hail obliterating anything in its way, I set my eyes upon the birth of a tornado. I quickly pull out my camera and click away. Closer and closer I drive and before I know it, the truck is shaking rapidly and this massive twisting beast is passing 100 yards in front of me.

My name is Mike Mezeul II and I am a photojournalist. I ask you to please vote for me to be Quark Expeditions official blogger to the North Pole. The images I will bring back from the North Pole will be one-of-a-kind, amaze you, and bring a tear to your eye when you yourself, feel as if you are standing a top the world witnessing such beauty. Every breathtaking moment will be shared with you. My emotions, my passion, my life for 10 days…not a moment missed.

267 Comments

Report Abuse willy ekariyono February 12, 2011 | 11:46 AM

vote this nice photo

Report Abuse Vivian Unger February 12, 2011 | 12:55 AM

Good luck Mike!

Report Abuse Elizabeth Thompson February 04, 2011 | 01:23 AM

Good Luck Mike I hope your dream comes true.x

Report Abuse Gemma Gosuico February 03, 2011 | 09:48 PM

Best of luck, Mike.

Report Abuse anna stromberg February 02, 2011 | 09:20 PM

One more vote for you from my alternate email. Good luck!

Report Abuse Samantha Schroeder January 29, 2011 | 05:14 PM

Good Luck Mike! You have very inspiring work!:)

Report Abuse Jonathan Huck January 26, 2011 | 08:33 PM

Three votes courtesy of a fellow college roller hockey alum. Best of luck.

Report Abuse D Boka January 26, 2011 | 05:55 AM

Friend of Anna's! Saw your post on her site, read your blog, wishing you good luck! I hope you get to go!

Report Abuse Nanette Houser January 26, 2011 | 04:36 AM

Hey Michael...We...at the NCRHA....truly hope you win this! What a great entry...to possibly achieve a phenomenal adventure for you!
If you win though, you will have to wear an NCRHA Jersey on the top of the North pole. Promise? : )

Report Abuse javier valdes January 23, 2011 | 07:56 PM

good luck getting trip to northpole

Report Abuse Wynde Thomas January 23, 2011 | 02:45 PM

Best Wishes for a lifetime of awesome journeys.

Report Abuse Juni Zheng January 23, 2011 | 06:00 AM

Best luck - wish you much in life. I know you dad and see many great pictures that he show me you take. You are such good take pictures.

Report Abuse Lia Liu January 23, 2011 | 05:50 AM

Great work Mike - I hope you win trip to N. Pole

Report Abuse Quang Nguyen January 22, 2011 | 09:54 PM

Hey Mike,
Don't actually know you personally, but saw your story through SCHL and love what you're trying to do.SCHL alums gotta stick together haha! Best of luck with your endeavors!

Report Abuse Heather Anderson January 22, 2011 | 04:02 PM

Goodluck!!! Don't freeze your buns off!!! :)

Report Abuse Jim h January 21, 2011 | 10:08 PM

Rock on Mike! good luck! Jim H - SCHL

Report Abuse Liz Kerrigan January 20, 2011 | 02:39 PM

Here's hoping you will be shopping for electric socks soon! Good Luck!

Report Abuse Michael Mezeul II January 20, 2011 | 01:25 AM

Thank you all for your support.

Tracy - I am extremely sorry for your loss. I could not imagine what you and your husband have been through. I will gladly support "Mark of an Angel" and will do my best to gain others support with your voting. Best of luck to you.

Best,
Mike

Report Abuse Lindel Easley January 20, 2011 | 01:21 AM

Very nice work! I'm a friend of your Dad and Tony DelSorbo. Good luck with the contest!

Report Abuse Moniqa Paullet January 19, 2011 | 03:12 PM

I cannot wait to see your trip to the North Pole!

Report Abuse Tracy Whitney January 19, 2011 | 07:11 AM

Good luck on your quest! I am a FB friend of Patty DelSorbo and a fellow PBD Momma. My son, Graham, is Forever 9 and passed away on May 22, 2009. We are still grieving...but are trying to help others who will follow in our footsteps. We are also in a voting contest. My husband and I are trying to start a foundation in our son's honor and memory. One of the ideas our foundation will eventually fund is "Mark of an Angel". This program will help fund the cost of headstones for Child Angels.

Mark of an Angel is in the running to receive a $25,000 grant and "all" we need our votes. You can visit our FB Page at www.facebook.com/markofanangel for instructions on voting.

You can VOTE EVERY DAY 3 ways in Jan:
1) TEXT 104332 to 73774
2) ONLINE at www.refresheverything.com/markofanangel
3) FACEBOOK by using a Facebook login at the link mentioned in step 2.

I wish you well and hope you reach your goals. PLEASE consider voting for us too so we can make a MARK(er) on a Child's grave. No Child's grave should remain unMARKed!

Tracy
'Angel' Graham's Momma

Report Abuse Gill Bone January 19, 2011 | 01:57 AM

Good luck Mike wishing you a great trip looking forward to the photos

Report Abuse Melissa Mayer January 18, 2011 | 11:29 PM

Good Luck! I think your work is amazing and I know you will bring back phenomenal photos from the North Pole!

Report Abuse Nick Taylor January 18, 2011 | 08:00 PM

Good luck bud

Report Abuse Brenda Fritz January 18, 2011 | 07:55 PM

Good Luck...

Report Abuse Erik Dirksen January 18, 2011 | 07:05 PM

I wish you good luck and a lot of amazing impressions. Wanna see some pics after return;)

Report Abuse Beth Rumsey January 18, 2011 | 01:39 PM

Good luck getting to the top of the world!

Report Abuse Laura K January 18, 2011 | 02:57 AM

Awesome work, good luck!

Report Abuse Gretna Harrison January 17, 2011 | 10:32 PM

You are amazing!! Good luck, Mike!

Report Abuse June Skinner January 16, 2011 | 09:33 PM

Good luck from a fellow Dentonite. I'm also in the contest and have a grand total of 3 votes so far, so I'm switching my fans to you--j

Report Abuse Matthew Burnside January 16, 2011 | 09:20 PM

Good Luck : )

Report Abuse Tom Newell January 16, 2011 | 03:57 PM

Photography is a powerful medium. I feel your passion for this adventure. I thank you for taking me on the trip, through your lens and blog, and freezing your limbs off! Best of luck. Go Mean Green !!!

Report Abuse Lucianoufs Lima Santos January 16, 2011 | 03:32 AM

Good Luck!!!

Report Abuse lulu xu January 15, 2011 | 09:15 AM

GREAT TAKE

Report Abuse Suki Yan January 15, 2011 | 06:29 AM

~~ME 2~~~~I have not traveled to every continent in the world. I have barely left the China. So why vote for you ? I hope your images amaze for me , and bring a tear to my eye when myself, feel as if I AM standing a top the world witnessing such beauty

Report Abuse Suki Yan January 15, 2011 | 06:22 AM

GOOD LUCK! !

Report Abuse Julie Yang January 12, 2011 | 03:07 PM

Good luck!

Report Abuse Luciano Lima January 12, 2011 | 06:04 AM

Good Luck, Mike!!! All the best!
Todos os brasileiros estão torcendo por você!!! / All brazilians are crossing their fingers for you!!! (Aracaju City,Sergipe State/Northeastern Brazil).

Report Abuse Patricia Mezeul January 12, 2011 | 03:59 AM

Michael, my first born, ever since you could crawl, you wanted to take off and see the world! You have grown to be a phenomenal photographer. This is your passion, your life, your love. You love every minute that you have a camera in your hands. I know you want to go to the North Pole more than anything you have ever wanted to do before in your 26 years. I hope and pray that you get the chance to do this. I know that the pictures you would come back with will allow the world to see what you experienced, and through your wonderful pictures, the world will get to experience the North Pole too. You are the best! Love Mom, Patricia Mezeul

Report Abuse Melissa McConnell January 11, 2011 | 10:36 PM

Thank you for offering to go "for me". I live in MN, that's as physically close as I want to get, thanks. *LOL* Good luck to you!!!

Report Abuse Marc Hicks January 11, 2011 | 10:34 PM

Good Luck Mike!

Report Abuse Julian He January 11, 2011 | 03:37 AM

Good pictures! I really want you to have this opportunity!

Report Abuse Katie Lanier January 10, 2011 | 10:54 PM

Good luck!

Report Abuse Willis Jiang January 10, 2011 | 08:42 AM

Good Luck!

Report Abuse Jumping Zhang January 10, 2011 | 05:31 AM

Good Luck to U~~ Wishes from SZX~

Report Abuse lily lu January 10, 2011 | 02:14 AM

Good luck!

Report Abuse Ada Ai January 10, 2011 | 01:59 AM

Have a good luch:)

Report Abuse Zhang Green January 10, 2011 | 01:56 AM

Good luck again!

Report Abuse Aaron SUN January 10, 2011 | 01:23 AM

Good luck!!!

Report Abuse Maria Gum January 09, 2011 | 08:28 PM

I hope you win! Let UNT know!

Report Abuse Renny Zhou January 09, 2011 | 04:27 PM

Good Luck! Mike

Report Abuse totty xiong January 09, 2011 | 01:57 PM

Good luck again!

Report Abuse Monica Greer Wilson January 09, 2011 | 04:04 AM

Best of luck Mike, looking forward to seeing your posts when you win!

Report Abuse Shane Kirk January 09, 2011 | 03:49 AM

Good luck Mike! You deserve it! Hope you win!!

Report Abuse Michael Mezeul II January 09, 2011 | 01:47 AM

Special thank you to all my friends from China, your support is greatly appreciated. Also, I would like to thank my storm chasing friends from the great plains! You guys are awesome!

Report Abuse Michael Mezeul II January 09, 2011 | 01:46 AM

Special thank you to all my friends from China, your support is greatly appreciated. Also, I would like to thank my storm chasing friends from the great plains! You guys are awesome!

Report Abuse Michael Zhang January 08, 2011 | 03:48 AM

Good luck!

Report Abuse Libby Lee January 08, 2011 | 03:38 AM

Fighting,fighting!
Good Luck to you!

Yours Libby.

Report Abuse Annie Annie January 07, 2011 | 07:50 AM

Good Luck! Michael!

Report Abuse Jenny D January 07, 2011 | 06:51 AM

Vote for Michael!

Report Abuse Lemon Zhou January 07, 2011 | 06:27 AM

Good Luckkkkk!

Report Abuse junne jiao January 07, 2011 | 02:36 AM

Good luck Mike 2!

Report Abuse tonny yang January 07, 2011 | 01:05 AM

Good luck Mike!!!

Report Abuse Erica Lynn January 07, 2011 | 12:18 AM

Hey Mike, Thanks for your support with Totally Psyched. I'll encourage the rest of our organization to send votes your way!

Report Abuse Amy xiao January 06, 2011 | 04:06 PM

Sent by my friend Jinglong. I hope you win Mike
Best wishes

Report Abuse Vivian Ngai January 06, 2011 | 12:56 PM

Good luck! Say hi to Senior Mike for me. :)

Report Abuse Jie Jiang January 06, 2011 | 11:57 AM

Good work, and Good Luck for you, Michael!
Voteeeeee!

Report Abuse Rainy Liang January 06, 2011 | 11:48 AM

Good Luck to you :):)
Vote for you

Report Abuse Willa Zhou January 06, 2011 | 11:35 AM

Cool!

Report Abuse Lawrence Lu January 06, 2011 | 10:55 AM

Good luck !

Report Abuse Neo J January 06, 2011 | 10:13 AM

Good luck!

Report Abuse Harold Mei January 06, 2011 | 10:07 AM

Vote

Report Abuse Gilson xu January 06, 2011 | 10:03 AM

Vote for Mike!
Go!

Report Abuse Qiang Luo January 06, 2011 | 10:01 AM

Good luck to you!

Report Abuse Ma Ma January 06, 2011 | 09:59 AM

good luck

Report Abuse leo lui January 06, 2011 | 09:49 AM

wow, great

Report Abuse Nathan Lei January 06, 2011 | 09:31 AM

So brave to take phone for cyclone, great!

Report Abuse feng zou January 06, 2011 | 08:57 AM

Good luck,Mike!

Report Abuse Jlong zhu January 06, 2011 | 08:28 AM

Go go go!!!

Report Abuse lw wl January 06, 2011 | 07:49 AM

good luck!

Report Abuse Fenfen Wu January 06, 2011 | 07:47 AM

Good luck,man!

Report Abuse Jasmine Jasmine January 06, 2011 | 07:42 AM

GOOD LUCK!

Report Abuse michael dai January 06, 2011 | 07:38 AM

Good luch

Report Abuse xiong inman January 06, 2011 | 07:35 AM

good luck, Michael.

Report Abuse lidan ming January 06, 2011 | 07:30 AM

amazing pix! i enjoyed them very much, cheers, Mike

Report Abuse zhao ming January 06, 2011 | 06:58 AM

good luck！！

Report Abuse Elaine Zhong January 06, 2011 | 06:55 AM

Amazing!

Report Abuse Jingl Zhu January 06, 2011 | 06:52 AM

Wishing you the Best of Luck in the Competition!

Report Abuse Jing Chen January 06, 2011 | 06:44 AM

Good luck Amily

Report Abuse Jing Chen January 06, 2011 | 06:41 AM

Good Luck

Report Abuse Liang Liu January 06, 2011 | 06:36 AM

I am anxious to see your photoes in North Pole

Report Abuse catherine liu January 06, 2011 | 06:35 AM

Good luck! Have a rich and colorful life like beautiful photoes you take!

Report Abuse Tod Wu January 06, 2011 | 06:34 AM

very nice picture, I am George's friend from China, May you Good luck!

Report Abuse Mike Mezeul January 06, 2011 | 06:32 AM

As Mike's father I can't tell you how proud I am of him and the photography work that he has done. Mike has always had a compassion for photography, nature and the weather and he has such an eye for photographing life's beauty. I personally know that having an opportunity to go to the North pole and photograph the world from a place where so few have had the chance means the world to him.

I wish him the best of luck and ask everyone that reads this to please support Mike by casting their vote for him. Please also share Mike's dream with you families and friends and ask them to vote as well.

The internet is truly an amazing place and with everyone's help Mike's story can be spread like a virus and together we can help Mike make his dream become a reality.

Thanks,
Mike Mezeul (Senior)

Report Abuse kenh hu January 06, 2011 | 06:23 AM

nice job

Report Abuse Lu Rong January 06, 2011 | 06:13 AM

Go, go, go! Looking forward to the amazing pictures you taken from North Pole!

Report Abuse Anna Pan January 06, 2011 | 06:10 AM

Good Luck!

Report Abuse Michael Ding January 06, 2011 | 06:07 AM

Best wishes!

Report Abuse Robert Dittmar January 06, 2011 | 06:06 AM

Stay warm!

Report Abuse Emily Chen January 06, 2011 | 06:06 AM

Good job!

Report Abuse Qianshu Cai January 06, 2011 | 06:06 AM

Good luck.

Report Abuse Alvin Rong January 06, 2011 | 06:06 AM

Wish you all the best!

Report Abuse Mary Eli January 06, 2011 | 05:53 AM

I love Mike's work and think he is so deserving of an opportunity to photograph the top of our beautiful world. I'm sure his photographs would be spectacular.

Report Abuse Eric Miao January 06, 2011 | 05:52 AM

Good Luck!

Report Abuse caiyun chen January 06, 2011 | 05:48 AM

good luck!

Report Abuse Twiny Zheng January 06, 2011 | 05:32 AM

Good luck!!

Report Abuse roland zheng January 06, 2011 | 05:31 AM

Good luck!

Report Abuse Easwy Yang January 06, 2011 | 05:23 AM

Good luck!

Report Abuse 佳斌 熊 January 06, 2011 | 05:17 AM

Great job!

Report Abuse hughes yang January 06, 2011 | 05:11 AM

good luck!

Report Abuse Derek Xu January 06, 2011 | 05:09 AM

Good luck!
Looking forward to seeing the marvellous pictures you take from North Pole.

Report Abuse Jinglong Zhu January 06, 2011 | 04:40 AM

Hope you win!
Good luck!

Report Abuse Howard Hu January 06, 2011 | 04:39 AM

Keep going on, and to be the top!!!
Best regards....

Report Abuse Frank Che January 06, 2011 | 04:32 AM

awesome, keep going!!!

Report Abuse Kai Zhu January 06, 2011 | 04:29 AM

Go, Michael!

Report Abuse Yin Weiwei January 06, 2011 | 04:27 AM

Good luck man

Report Abuse Ray Bei January 06, 2011 | 04:26 AM

Good Luck！
顶

Report Abuse Cary Lu January 06, 2011 | 04:23 AM

Good Luck, Mike

Report Abuse Kan Luo January 06, 2011 | 04:18 AM

Good Luck!

Report Abuse Asky Lee January 06, 2011 | 04:17 AM

Success! Go to North Pole!

Report Abuse Jim Bovaird January 04, 2011 | 02:06 PM

Go Mez...
I am vote 1180.

Keep your Stick on the Ice.

Report Abuse JoAnn LoBello January 04, 2011 | 04:56 AM

Way to go little cuz!!!!!!

Report Abuse Joyce Norton January 03, 2011 | 11:55 PM

Hey Mike,
Voting for you as I served with your Dad in the AF.

Joyce Perry-Norton. TSgt Retired USAF.

Report Abuse Kacie Helms January 03, 2011 | 07:39 PM

Good Luck Mike! You deserve it. You take some amazing and beautiful photos! :)

Report Abuse Jerri Boyd January 03, 2011 | 06:41 PM

Good Luck!

Report Abuse Jonathan Charles January 03, 2011 | 08:46 AM

goooodd luckkk

Report Abuse Thomas Myint December 30, 2010 | 04:02 AM

Good luck bud :)

Report Abuse Christy Justice December 29, 2010 | 04:12 PM

good luck!!

Report Abuse jason stroud December 28, 2010 | 08:17 PM

Good luck Mike! This seems to be the opportunity of a lifetime. As a member of the Denton community I believe in our people and their ability to do great things. May you find clarity and the strength to achieve all that you desire, that you may use it for the betterment of your world and the fortification of your mind. I'm routing for you.

Report Abuse Stern Hatcher December 27, 2010 | 01:57 AM

I voted with sternhatcher@hotmail.com ;)

Report Abuse Storm Chaser December 27, 2010 | 01:53 AM

Good Luck on your adventure Mike! You have my vote! Hope you succeed in your life long dream!

Report Abuse Karla Dorman December 26, 2010 | 05:11 PM

Hope you win, Mike, you want to go where it's cold, I want to stay where it's warm. LOL If you win, may I have a pair of mukluks?

Report Abuse Jeff Adair December 25, 2010 | 06:27 AM

MIKE IS AWESOME!

Report Abuse Alexa M December 24, 2010 | 06:48 PM

Hope you win!

Report Abuse Robert LoGrasso December 24, 2010 | 04:40 AM

I am tired of his whining please send him away before we have to put him away ...thanks

Report Abuse Laney DeJesus December 24, 2010 | 12:31 AM

Good Luck Mike! Enjoyed your blog entry!

Report Abuse Ashley Coughenour December 23, 2010 | 05:08 PM

Good luckk Mike. You deserve it more than anyoneee(: Love you!

Report Abuse Marcia Wegener December 23, 2010 | 04:04 PM

Good Luck. Vote for Mike. He is a very good person.

Report Abuse Clint Perkins December 23, 2010 | 12:39 PM

I have been chasing for years with Mike and know him very well....Go get em Mike!

Report Abuse Michael Laca December 22, 2010 | 10:44 PM

Good luck, Mike!!!

Report Abuse Julie Vrana December 22, 2010 | 08:53 PM

Good Luck, Mike!

Report Abuse Mike Theiss December 22, 2010 | 06:52 PM

Good Luck MIKE !!!! It would be great to see a "Mike" win one of these contests !! I just voted and will send out an email blast with your link...... MIke Theiss

Report Abuse Sean Casey December 22, 2010 | 05:33 PM

Good luck Mike!

Report Abuse danyell furrh December 22, 2010 | 01:53 PM

believe him when he says..."The images I will bring back from the North Pole will be one-of-a-kind, amaze you, and bring a tear to your eye when you yourself, feel as if you are standing a top the world witnessing such beauty".
i get excited the days i see mike. i know that in a few moments an amazing work of art will be emerging before my eyes. it is never just a photograph. the simplest, and sometimes ugliest, parts of my world are transformed into something beautiful and magical...all with a click of his shutter. i see images 40 plus hours a week...his photos are my favorites to see.
i know someday i will see one of your shots in a big named magazine and i will say "i knew him when"...while jumping around in excitement :)

Report Abuse Francesca Romeo December 22, 2010 | 11:53 AM

...in bocca al lupo!!!

Report Abuse Lacy Scribner December 22, 2010 | 06:18 AM

Good luck!!

Report Abuse David Devlin December 22, 2010 | 06:03 AM

You have taken some of the most amazing pictures I have ever seen........Ive no doubt you would bring back jaw dropping pictures of the North Pole. Best of Luck!! You deserve it!!

Report Abuse Will Wilkens December 21, 2010 | 09:53 PM

Best of luck, Mike!!! Get some shots of some polar bears!!!

Report Abuse Laurie Petty December 21, 2010 | 09:19 PM

Good Luck Mike!!! Can't wait to read your entries and see the amazing pictures!!

Report Abuse Megan Kwasniak December 21, 2010 | 08:16 PM

Best of luck! Looking forward to reading your entries!

Report Abuse Rick Burriesci December 21, 2010 | 04:29 PM

BEST of Luck Mike,,,I put my Vote In

Report Abuse Rodolfo Paiz December 21, 2010 | 07:18 AM

Best of luck, Mike, and may you always be a Merlin. :-)

Report Abuse Nita Alexander December 20, 2010 | 10:32 PM

Your travel conquest will be noticed by in your magnificant pictures.We vote today and visit us on our web page of Allen Travel Service. Nita

Report Abuse The Heights at Allen Station The Heights at Allen Station December 20, 2010 | 10:28 PM

Throwing some ice your way! Everyone here at The Heights is behind you Mike! We can't wait to see all the awesome pictures you have to share!

Report Abuse Lois Newman December 20, 2010 | 10:25 PM

Good luck, Your photo's are inspirational

Report Abuse Katrina Wells Rucker December 20, 2010 | 07:08 PM

I just made it 1013 votes! Good luck! You certainly deserve this!

Report Abuse matt ellis December 20, 2010 | 07:12 AM

Good luck man

Report Abuse Michael Mezeul II December 20, 2010 | 05:10 AM

Thank you all for your support! Almost 1,000 votes is absolutely astonishing and humbling. I promise each and every one of you if I am awarded this trip, I will bring back a story that amazes you all! Please keep spreading the word, every vote counts!

- Mike

Report Abuse Cindy Wilson December 19, 2010 | 11:55 PM

Good luck Mike!!!! I know you could get some amazing photos at the North Pole.
Cindy Wilson

Report Abuse Dana Mezeul December 19, 2010 | 06:48 AM

Hey cousin good luck! You deserve this! You work so hard, your pictures are beautiful, and I know you really want this. No one deserves this more than you. Miss you!

Report Abuse Kari Post December 18, 2010 | 11:38 PM

Good luck Mike!

Report Abuse margit kemppi December 18, 2010 | 08:19 PM

Good luck,Mike!

Report Abuse Patrick Mckinley December 17, 2010 | 06:50 PM

Whooooo hookup, 900, go mike. Looking forward to the pics from up there

Report Abuse James Stancil December 17, 2010 | 04:31 PM

Excellent essay and photography work. My son is currently running 5th in the competition under the entry titled "I'm No Robert Peary". He's a true adventurous spirit with emergency medical/LPN credentials. Should you ever need someone to be by your side to provide medical aid/comfort/assistance, well, he works cheap! Good luck to you in your quest to make the world a more accessible place.

Report Abuse Jeff Gammons December 17, 2010 | 02:14 PM

Good luck Mike!!!

Report Abuse Kris Moreno December 17, 2010 | 02:13 PM

Good Luck!!

Report Abuse Stern Hatcher December 17, 2010 | 04:32 AM

Good luck... I can't believe you got me to vote for you buddy, but even though I don't sign up for anything...your photography excels and I hope you achieve your goal.

Report Abuse Suzanne Ralston December 16, 2010 | 11:00 PM

Good luck ... in this and all future journeys that your photograhy takes you.

Report Abuse Jessie Reyes-Lugo December 16, 2010 | 10:14 PM

Good LUCK!

Report Abuse Wendy Broyles December 16, 2010 | 05:07 PM

Good luck Mike!! And remember, if you win, you said you would let us put some beads on your coat!!

xoxo,
The girls at Bumble Beads on the Denton Square.

Report Abuse Tony Spencer December 16, 2010 | 04:04 AM

Good luck. Although I'm definitely getting the "I am you" vibe from the last election.

No. You are you. I am me. And we are all together. etc.

Report Abuse Courtney Erwin December 16, 2010 | 03:52 AM

good luck!

Report Abuse Sara Andrade December 15, 2010 | 07:16 PM

Good Luck Mike!

Report Abuse Michelle Thompson December 15, 2010 | 12:12 AM

sweet 800

Report Abuse Paula Vanderburg December 13, 2010 | 10:59 PM

Good luck! Make us all proud!

Report Abuse Michelle Critz December 13, 2010 | 10:38 PM

Good luck, I know you will do well. I know your passionate about chasing storms and photography.

Report Abuse Wally Walia December 13, 2010 | 08:54 PM

Excellent venture. Besafe andgood luck.

Report Abuse Johnathan Newberry December 13, 2010 | 01:48 PM

vote has been placed hoping you make it to the top of the world.

Report Abuse Linda Brandt December 13, 2010 | 08:04 AM

Mike,

I tried to vote for you by clicking on the "vote for me" bar on this page, but I'm having problems with my computer and it says "Error on page" at the bottom. So, I don't know what's going on, but you definitely have my vote. I do hope you get a chance to go North. Good luck, and best wishes to you and yours in the Holiday Season.
Linda Brandt

Report Abuse Kendall Lyons December 13, 2010 | 03:20 AM

Knock it out man. Go on ahead and get that dream and make it reality!!!!

Report Abuse Debra Esch December 12, 2010 | 11:09 PM

Goodd Luck Mike. Can't ait to ee your pictures, I am sure that they will be AWESOME..You have my vote. I have my own North Pole right here in Wisconsn. God Bless you, and my He watch over you during your expdition, and give you stengh and will to full fill your dream. My thouhts and prayers go to you. You are a very unique and specail person.. I recieved a e-mail from Reed Timmer saying that you needed our help, hope my vote helps..

Report Abuse Heidi Lucius December 12, 2010 | 10:52 PM

Take Jenny storm chasing please! I am looking forward to seeing the pictures

Report Abuse Jason Bulleit December 12, 2010 | 09:25 PM

Best of luck!

Report Abuse Richard Gerlach December 12, 2010 | 05:01 PM

Mr. Menzuel, you look like you have what it takes... good luck.

Our best to you on your quest.

Report Abuse Christopher Gerlach December 12, 2010 | 04:56 PM

C'mon Mike! You rock! If we send a photojournalist to the North Pole, we will get the best pictures ever!

Good luck

©mg

Report Abuse Susie Hall December 12, 2010 | 04:27 PM

Mike, What a great endeavor. Can't wait to see the pics!!

Report Abuse Roberta Johnson Landry December 12, 2010 | 09:11 AM

Good luck Mike. Can't wait to see pics.

Report Abuse Janalyn Giles December 11, 2010 | 08:26 PM

Good Luck, I really hope to see the photos.

Report Abuse Floriana Torres December 11, 2010 | 04:34 PM

You need to win this and take amazing picture to share with us!!! Good luck Mike!!!

Report Abuse Jackie Parsons December 11, 2010 | 12:49 PM

Good luck Mike!

Report Abuse Trudy Miller December 11, 2010 | 06:01 AM

I'm sure you will do just fine! Best of luck can't wait fo rthe pics'

Report Abuse Muriel Moore December 11, 2010 | 05:21 AM

Good luck Mike.

Report Abuse Michael Craddock December 11, 2010 | 03:51 AM

Good luck Mike! With a name like that you can't go wrong.

Report Abuse Shane Lee December 11, 2010 | 12:33 AM

Good Luck on your trip!

Report Abuse Gordon Taylor December 10, 2010 | 09:55 PM

Been there a few times, I spent a year living 750 miles north of the Artic Circle and made the trip a few times. It's an amazing place and full of life. More then you would expect! Foxes, Ravens, Polar Bears (watch out for those, they bite and hate snowmobiles) and more.

Oh yeah, it's really really cold so make sure you take a Artic Survival training course, you can die in less then 30 minutes. But, other then that it's so cool. The ice is so blue, amazing shades of blue.

Good luck and I hope you get to go.

Report Abuse Angie Gore December 10, 2010 | 08:25 PM

Good like Mike Mez!!!

Report Abuse Joe Cadotte December 10, 2010 | 07:34 PM

Good Luck Mez! I have no doubt that I will have some amazing new backgrounds for my pc when you get back, lol!!

Report Abuse Jenny Lucius December 10, 2010 | 06:54 PM

Mike, if I can't go with you to the North Pole, then you better at least take me storm chasing with you this spring.

You deserve this, good luck. :)

Report Abuse Bryn Agnew December 10, 2010 | 05:47 PM

Good luck Mez!!

Report Abuse Samra Bufkins December 10, 2010 | 04:56 PM

So proud to know you and support your quest. Having traveled to more than a few "can't get there from here" places myself, I'm jealous of you and will live vicariously through your photos from the frozen north.

Report Abuse Abe Dyke December 10, 2010 | 06:33 AM

Good luck Mike. I hope ya get it. ~Abe

Report Abuse heidi farrar December 10, 2010 | 04:31 AM

Be sure to bundle up!

Report Abuse Amanda Harrison December 09, 2010 | 10:08 PM

Good luck Mike!

Report Abuse Gassia Keloukian December 09, 2010 | 04:47 PM

it's true that i've only seen you once in my life but i don't need more days to know how AMAZING you are in what you do.

GREAT photographer, Great character! i just DEEPLY wish that you win and enjoy every single moment.

May God bless you and keep this talent GROWING in you.

keep on Rockin'

Gassia from Hard Rock Cafe Beirut!

Report Abuse Donna Hammons December 09, 2010 | 04:27 AM

good luck mike.

Report Abuse Augusta L. December 09, 2010 | 02:30 AM

WOO number 500!

Report Abuse Amanda Mckinley December 09, 2010 | 01:45 AM

Your work is amazing. I'm looking forward to
Haunt another one of your pieces
On my wall!!! I hope you win!!

Report Abuse David Stancil December 09, 2010 | 12:21 AM

Best of luck to you as well Mike. Thanks for the comment.

Report Abuse David Stancil December 08, 2010 | 11:44 PM

Colleen, I feel like your comment was a bit unnecessary as prior to my comment there were in fact 552 words. I was doing Mike (the person you are vying for) a service in informing him of his error. In no way shape or form was my comment rude, insensitive, or out of line. I am unable to say the same for yours unfortunately.

Report Abuse Thorne Anderson December 08, 2010 | 11:23 PM

I was hoping I would be your 500th vote, but I couldn't wait.
- Thorne

Report Abuse Debra Hale December 08, 2010 | 10:59 PM

Way to go Mike, you deserve to win!

Report Abuse Jim Leonard December 08, 2010 | 10:34 PM

Good luck Mike, see you under the meso next spring

Report Abuse sue griffin December 08, 2010 | 09:14 PM

Good luck Mike--Stephen recomended you. Sue and Damon.

Report Abuse Alabama Morgan December 07, 2010 | 07:54 AM

I couldn't decide who to vote for, but your new adorable picture convinced me! Your essay is just... breathtaking. If you win, I really look forward to your one-on-one battle with the polar bear.

Report Abuse Jolea Cruzan December 07, 2010 | 07:38 AM

You got this baby! Keep up the amazing work!

Report Abuse Karonda Johnson December 07, 2010 | 07:08 AM

good luck!!!

Report Abuse Krystel Bell December 07, 2010 | 03:44 AM

<3 ya Mike...Good Luck :)
luv The California Girl

Report Abuse Scott Peake December 07, 2010 | 03:27 AM

You have my vote Mike and good luck!!!

Report Abuse Jon Berry December 07, 2010 | 02:55 AM

Yeah - lets see you photograph a snow tornado while you're freezing your butt off on that -50º weather!

Report Abuse Saker albarazi December 07, 2010 | 02:28 AM

Good luck brother;)

Report Abuse Jamie Thompson December 07, 2010 | 12:19 AM

Good luck Mike!!!

Report Abuse Ralph Taylor December 06, 2010 | 10:11 PM

More power to ya my friend wanting to go to one of the coldest places on the planet! Just stay clear of the polar bears and all will be good! good luck!

Report Abuse Andrea Marks December 06, 2010 | 07:48 AM

who WOULDNT vote for mike?

Report Abuse Mohammed Alsadah December 06, 2010 | 06:40 AM

Good luck buddy :)

Report Abuse Mark Bearden December 06, 2010 | 05:12 AM

I have seen only a portion of your work and it is awesome. You are a very talented photographer with an eye for the obscure. Good luck and I hope you win.

Report Abuse Laura Alexander December 06, 2010 | 01:26 AM

Good Luck!

Report Abuse Melissa Grossmann December 06, 2010 | 01:02 AM

Good luck, Mike! Cant wait to see these photos after your return!

Report Abuse Carrie DeJaco December 05, 2010 | 11:32 PM

I would be more likely to vote for you if you used correct punctuation in your writing.

Report Abuse Cynthia Quitmeyer December 05, 2010 | 10:27 PM

best of luck--looking forward to seeing your pix--is the aurora borealis on your agenda?

Report Abuse Hilary Scott Bartels December 05, 2010 | 08:40 PM

If your camera freezes, it will be no good.

Report Abuse Bill Hark December 05, 2010 | 03:17 AM

Good luck! Win one for the chase community.

Report Abuse Susan Romard December 05, 2010 | 02:38 AM

Anything for a nephew of Debbie....man you look just like Teen and Vlad!!! GOOD LUCK!!! Susan

Report Abuse Misticile Harrison December 04, 2010 | 07:51 PM

Good Luck!

Report Abuse Jon Dickson December 04, 2010 | 07:50 PM

Sent by my friend Lisa. I hope you win Mike and you don't freeze too much.

Report Abuse B.m. Pergande December 04, 2010 | 07:46 PM

Good Luck!

Report Abuse Christine Donahue December 04, 2010 | 07:01 PM

I love the pictures you take just about as much as I love you Mez! You're gonna get it this year! :)

Report Abuse Sarah Bonner December 04, 2010 | 06:45 PM

Voting for you, Mike, at my adorable d-i-l's request. Besides, I think it's high time the North Pole was annexed by the Lone Star State. My own personal Texan annexed me more than 34 yrs ago.

Report Abuse Susan Kelly December 04, 2010 | 06:31 PM

You go Mike! Reed Timmer is pulling for you. posted by Sue Kelly

Report Abuse Susan Kelly December 04, 2010 | 06:18 PM

Good luck, Reed Timmer is pulling for you,so we are too.

Report Abuse Joe Cadotte December 04, 2010 | 02:36 PM

You got this Mez! Shoot some amazing pictures, this is a place I have on my list of places to travel to. Let me know how it is. Ill get you 3-4 more this weekend.

Report Abuse Amber MacDonald December 04, 2010 | 11:45 AM

Good Luck, Mike! Wishing you all the best!

Report Abuse Lisa Pergande December 04, 2010 | 08:15 AM

Good Luck Mike! I'm crossing my fingers for you!

Report Abuse Olivier Staiger December 04, 2010 | 07:23 AM

Mike, I just voted for you. I was there 2 years ago, so if you need an experienced guide as travel companion ... hint hint ;-)

Report Abuse Sarah Morgan December 04, 2010 | 07:23 AM

You SO deserve this!! Fingers crossed! <3

Report Abuse Michael Mezeul II December 04, 2010 | 07:20 AM

Thank you all for your votes and kind words! I really appreciate each and every one of you guys! Please help spread the word and help me reach the top of the world! I promise you won't be disappointed in what a bring back to you all!

Report Abuse will astle December 04, 2010 | 06:48 AM

awesome work Mike! Keep up the great work!

Report Abuse Michael Mezeul II December 04, 2010 | 06:45 AM

Thank you all for your votes and kind words! I am determined more than ever to document this experience and share it with the world! Please help and share my link with everyone you know! Thanks again!

Report Abuse sara burns December 04, 2010 | 04:41 AM

good luck.. refered by reed

Report Abuse Michelle Thompson December 04, 2010 | 04:34 AM

Reed Timmer posted about you, I re posted on my Facebook. Hope you make it cant wait to see the pics, best wishes~Michelle

Report Abuse Gretchen Sparling December 03, 2010 | 11:37 PM

Rock on, Mike! Represent the Mayborn : )

Report Abuse Mandy Bailey December 03, 2010 | 09:55 PM

Good Luck Hope You Win!! Referred By Reed

Report Abuse Ross Pickle December 03, 2010 | 08:53 PM

Good Luck! refered by Reed.

Report Abuse Amanda Williams December 03, 2010 | 08:02 PM

Good Luck Mike! Reed Timmers request to vote for you. Thank him, I posted this to my page.

Report Abuse Drew Milas December 03, 2010 | 08:01 PM

voted for you mike

Report Abuse margit kemppi December 03, 2010 | 02:47 PM

Good luck Mike

Report Abuse Jenny Paul December 03, 2010 | 05:44 AM

yay Mike!!!

Report Abuse Patricia Mezeul December 03, 2010 | 02:58 AM

You know I am going with you, right? Ok, fine, I will watch Jasmine instead....sniffle...sniffle...good luck, love ya!

Report Abuse Rebecca McGregor December 03, 2010 | 02:50 AM

Mike, best of luck to you!!! You have my vote ... Rebecca

Report Abuse Julie Scharnberg December 02, 2010 | 11:43 PM

We love blogs, Mike. We want Mike on top of the world!

Report Abuse whitney britton December 02, 2010 | 09:12 PM

Gooood Luck Mike!!! :)

Report Abuse Rivae Balkin-Kliman December 02, 2010 | 09:08 PM

My mentor!!! Good luck!!! I'm spreading the word on Facebook and to anyone I speak with. You deserve to win this chance for an amazing adventure at the North Pole.

Report Abuse Macon Vining December 02, 2010 | 08:12 PM

I am in agreement with Andras Brandligt.

Report Abuse Kristen Dement December 02, 2010 | 07:49 PM

GOOD LUCK! !

Report Abuse Dicey White December 02, 2010 | 07:29 PM

I'm expecting a photo of Santa to be posted somewhere in your blog... ;)

Report Abuse Erkki Kemppi December 02, 2010 | 12:24 PM

Vote for Mike!

Report Abuse Taryn Walker December 02, 2010 | 06:22 AM

Voteeeeeee! :)

Report Abuse Andras Brandligt December 02, 2010 | 06:11 AM

As you had an exceptional stream of photo shoots the last year with almost shooting on a daily bases, I defenitly would like you to have a chance and go "North". The images you shoot are always original and of high quality so that is one of the reasons people ask you for the job. Much respect and I think you deserve to to win, and that is why I voted for you!

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