So, I'm reading a book on the subject of soft tissue fossilization in dinosaurs, and while it has been a good refresher of some basic stuff that I've forgotten, and given me some neat information about soft tissue in palaeontological and archaeological finds, it has also brought to my attention something that I vaguely knew about but rarely gave any thought.

Basically: amateurs can volunteer for digs. Experience is welcome but not necessarily required.

In other words, normal people who do not have any experience in palaeontology can apply to volunteer to go dig up dinosaurs, and sometimes their applications are accepted.

Theoretically, the only thing stopping me from doing this is the issue of transportation. Well, and applying and getting accepted, but like, you know. There's nothing to stop me from applying, at least. But transport-wise, obviously, you need to be able to get there yourself. But aside from that... well. Nothing stopping me from doing it, provided I had the cash saved up for the trip and could get time off from work. Normal people can do this, and this is something I could do. Wow.

It's entirely possible that I wouldn't actually like that sort of thing - you spend long hours doing back-breaking work in the hot sun - but it sure would be an interesting experience.

The thing is, when it comes to neat things like this, I'm so used to the idea of, well - "People like you can't do that, and you shouldn't even bother trying". But I can. I'm capable of doing this! Normal people can do this! Some rando from Fort Mac can do this! Theoretically.

Something to consider in a few years, maybe. I'm not going to do any research into the thing for now, since it isn't a possibility yet, but. Eventually, maybe, if I decide that I want to look into it.

...OR you know, I could just go to Drumheller and do some hiking in the provincial park, that would be nice too. ;p

Only thing is, I need to get that damn license first. WELL, OKAY, FINE.