There are certain adjustments one has to make when transitioning back to life in the lower 48. Using real toilets instead of the outhouse, for example. And eating fresh fruits and vegetables instead of corned beef from a can. And then there is the question of facial hair and what to do with it.

I am heading into the office today. Here is my problem.

As much as I hate to undo all the progress my facial hair has made over the past month, this look is not really fit for prime time.

And so I got out the trimmer and razor and went to work. I realized that I had an opportunity to try something new.

The results affirmed the old adage that new is not always better. Perhaps if I had been a bit more skillful in crafting the handlebar?

Next I tried for the minimalist approach: the soul patch.

The results affirmed that old adage that even a month on the tundra can’t summon soul where none exists.

I can blame my Swedish blood for the lack of beard prowess, but really, that’s just pathetic.

And so it’s back to the tried and true, safe and familiar. Oh well.

I do smell better now at least.