August 20, 2010
We slept in again because it was too cold to get out of bed in our cabin. Once we were up and ready, we checked out and went to the Overlook Bar & Grill that is part of the Crow’s Nest. Sharing a halibut burger potato wedges, we were satisfied and full.
Stopping off at a shop, we grabbed some last minute souvenirs and headed to the Denali National Park entrance. We decided to just drive in to the limit of 15 miles and do some hikes. We didn’t want to be on a bus for six hours. (that was the alternative).
So we drove to the limit. On the way Aunt Pam spotted caribou and we looked at them for a while. Then we drove the rest of the way oohing and ahhing at the beautiful tundra and assortment of trees and colors. Getting out of our HHR (car whatever it is), we bundled up and started on the Savage River Loop. The trail was great because it was too strenuous, but still made you exercise and work your muscles. We spotted a little prairie dog looking thing, but weren’t sure what it was so we call it a tundra dog. Our hike was so much fun and we talked and laughed and hiked!
We drove out of the park taking pictures at the pull outs. At the visitor’s center, we looked at the displays of animals on the tundra and the history of Denali. It was very informative and interesting. We watched a video about Denali showing all the seasons and the wildlife. The video was really great and gave you a sense of the vast wilderness.
Going back to town, we got a little gas (since it was like $4.14) and went into the Denali Doghouse to get lunch to go. Aunt Pam had a hot dog and I had a corn dog and we shared fries. Driving back to Anchorage, we talked (of course)! About important things like college and life.
Stopping at the South viewing place for Mt. McKinley, we had it basically to our self. The weather was like 70 degrees and so we soaked up the sun without sweatshirts. We hiked up the trail to the upper viewing and gasped at the amazing view. We were extremely lucky to be able to see Mt. McKinley on one of its few clear days. (the mountains make their own weather system up by McKinley so it is typically shrouded by clouds). We ran back down the trail and Aunt Pam almost had me but her bum knee was holding her back. To the tourists going up the trail, we probably looked like freaks because we were smiling from ear to ear running down the trail. Oh, great memories!
Then we drove some more. Nearing Anchorage, we saw a rainbow in the clouds above anchorage. As we drove, we were able to see the beginning of the immaculate sunset to our right. Further in Anchorage, we could see the whole vibrant rainbow behind us. The moon was rising to our left and was so big and white above the blue mountains and in the gray clouds.
On Elmendorf Air Force base, we went driving to watch the end of the sunset. Finding a little cabin and lake, we watched the bright pink both in the sky and reflecting on the water. It was truly wonderful. When we were driving back, Aunt Pam spotted a porcupine and then another one. We stopped and watched them for a while.
After getting into our room, we hung out, watched tv, and snacked. Great times in ALASKA!!
Saturday, August 21, 2010
August 19
August 19, 2010
Sleeping late until like 10 when we could finally roll out of bed, we showered and went down to the main street of Talkeetna to eat. Sitting on the porch of Twister Creek, we enjoyed the sun and warm summer weather in Alaska (65 degrees). I had eggs, biscuits and gravy, beacon, roasted potatoes, and toast for my huge breakfast that I couldn’t stop eating. Aunt Pam had a scrumptious breakfast.
We visited the Mostly Moose gift shop and then drove to Denali. But as we drove up the road leaving Talkeetna, Aunt Pam spotted the most amazing view from our rearview mirror. Parking in a pull-out, we looked across the trees to the beautiful mountains in the clear day. The white peak of Mt. McKinley towered above the rest and was beautiful. Later at the south view, we marveled in the site all over again snapping as many pictures as possible. It was lovely.
Most of the day was spent driving and strangely enough we were still tired despite our eleven hours the night before. Making it to the Denali entrance, we picked a place to stay. The cute Crow’s Nest cabins our set in three levels overlooking the other resorts and part of Denali National Park. It is beautiful and our little cabin is cute and quaint. Walking down the slope, we visited the shops (luckily, three were having 50% off clothing sales). We did all our souvenir shopping and got matching Alaska sweatshirts that are soft and we love.
So full from breakfast, we decided against dinner, but caved for our sudden sweet tooth. In a cute little coffee shop we lounged on a couch sipping hot cocoa and talking. (about books, me falling in the fire, and other fun stuff) Then I had to have ice cream so we each got chocolate peanut butter ice cream in cones. (mine was a waffle cone) Strolling down to the Princess Lodge, we ate our ice cream and sat in their cozy great room. Then we visited the grounds and warmed up by the fire.
We trekked up the hill to our hotel room and relaxed. Laughing at Mythbusters, we enjoyed our time.
Sleeping late until like 10 when we could finally roll out of bed, we showered and went down to the main street of Talkeetna to eat. Sitting on the porch of Twister Creek, we enjoyed the sun and warm summer weather in Alaska (65 degrees). I had eggs, biscuits and gravy, beacon, roasted potatoes, and toast for my huge breakfast that I couldn’t stop eating. Aunt Pam had a scrumptious breakfast.
We visited the Mostly Moose gift shop and then drove to Denali. But as we drove up the road leaving Talkeetna, Aunt Pam spotted the most amazing view from our rearview mirror. Parking in a pull-out, we looked across the trees to the beautiful mountains in the clear day. The white peak of Mt. McKinley towered above the rest and was beautiful. Later at the south view, we marveled in the site all over again snapping as many pictures as possible. It was lovely.
Most of the day was spent driving and strangely enough we were still tired despite our eleven hours the night before. Making it to the Denali entrance, we picked a place to stay. The cute Crow’s Nest cabins our set in three levels overlooking the other resorts and part of Denali National Park. It is beautiful and our little cabin is cute and quaint. Walking down the slope, we visited the shops (luckily, three were having 50% off clothing sales). We did all our souvenir shopping and got matching Alaska sweatshirts that are soft and we love.
So full from breakfast, we decided against dinner, but caved for our sudden sweet tooth. In a cute little coffee shop we lounged on a couch sipping hot cocoa and talking. (about books, me falling in the fire, and other fun stuff) Then I had to have ice cream so we each got chocolate peanut butter ice cream in cones. (mine was a waffle cone) Strolling down to the Princess Lodge, we ate our ice cream and sat in their cozy great room. Then we visited the grounds and warmed up by the fire.
We trekked up the hill to our hotel room and relaxed. Laughing at Mythbusters, we enjoyed our time.
August 18
August 18, 2010
Waking up in my extremely soft and wonderful bed, I got up and ready for the day. The sun was out and there was hardly a cloud in the sky. Checking out of the hotel at 9:30, we realized that the drive to Anchorage was not as long as we though and we had time to spare. So we wandered back through the resort to settle on the back patio. In the warm sunlight, we ate our cold pizza for breakfast.
Getting on the road, we enjoyed the scenery that we were leaving in our rearview mirror and the scenery in front of us clothed in sunlight! Aunt Pam said that just when you think you have seen it all in Alaska, you see something new and beautiful.
In Anchorage we passed a sea plane lake. Driving around it and getting out for pictures, we took in the little sea planes with their little houses. (much like boat houses). They were so cute. Arriving a short second away at Rust’s, we checked in for our bear trip. We explored while we waited until it was time to leave.
At 12:30, we boarded our plane that seats four besides the pilot. I was the co-pilot since we were worried I would get sick. Taxiing down Lake Hood, we took off from the water. What an amazing experience! Since it is such a small plane, we flew lower and got to see so many beautiful sites from the sky. Throughout the flight, I watched the pilot do all the plane stuff (very technical term) and I took pictures of the view at about 115 miles per hour.
I started not feeling good toward the end as the plane swayed and shook in the wind, but then we landed. Going up to the lodge, we ate lunch of chicken salad on bread and lettuce with delicious halibut, tomato soup. We ate with the Paul’s (father, mother, and son), Marcos (Italian) and Bella (Brazilian-and we can’t remember her full name), and Jone (older lady visiting Alaska).
After lunch we boarded a boat with our guide, Brian. Touring Redoubt Bay and Wolverine Lake, we saw a beaver dam, beautiful trees and mountains, and fishing boats. We sat by two streams where salmon go up and bear come down to eat. As the day progressed, we got worried that we would see no bears. Brian still wanting the trip to be fun took us to one of the many bogs and let us get out on it. Taking off our shoes and socks, we stood on the floating moss and grasses and bounced on it. It was so cool to see how it moved almost like a trampoline.
Brian got a call on his radio about a bear siting at the fish table (where they clean the fish) so we headed over. He spotted the grizzly bear way back near the forest on the back of another bog and Aunt Pam pointed out to me. It was walking back toward the fish table and Aunt Pam spotted a little cub bouncing along behind it.
We watched them swim across the water to the table. The momma bear went fishing and gave what it caught to the baby. While the cub ate beneath the table, the mom went in for more. They hung out around the little table island and on the bog bank eating fish. She must have caught at least four. It was so amazing to sit and watch wild bear fish and eat. Then another boat scared them off and they made their way back to the woods.
Finishing off out tour, we went back the lodge for a quick regroup and then our plane was there. With the same seating arrangements, we began our hour plan ride back. Flying back was even more fun and amazing and wonderful than flying there. It was an awesome feeling being so high and seeing all the scenery. We saw half a rainbow and were flying towards it. We saw at least forty beluga whales at the base of the fresh water rivers eating salmon. When we circled back to see them, we were at at least a 75 degree angle and it was so cool looking out my window at the ocean or land below.
At the dock, we went to eat at our favorite diner, The Lucky Wishbone. I ate a burger and hot fudge malt with onion rings. Aunt Pam ate fried chicken and hot fudge malt.
Then we hit the road to Talkeetna for a two hour jump on our trip to Denali on Thursday. Passing homemade sign after homemade sign, we went on our way. A construction site slowed us down slightly, but we had good attitudes and the guy stopping us appreciated that since he had been working for 15 hours. To our complete delight, we saw most of a brilliant sunset over a lake while we were behind a pilot car. It was glorious! We were really tired and didn’t talk much.
Thankfully, we made it to Talkeetna before dark because we didn’t know where to stay and it took a while. Finally, we settled in for our one rustic night. At the Latitude 62 we switched rooms once to get clean sheets and then got ready for much needed sleep. They tried to make it nice, but it was lacking. With one double bed and one twin, there was limited room especially with the small desk and cardboard chair. Despite the guy snoring next door and passing trains, we slept sound and long.
Waking up in my extremely soft and wonderful bed, I got up and ready for the day. The sun was out and there was hardly a cloud in the sky. Checking out of the hotel at 9:30, we realized that the drive to Anchorage was not as long as we though and we had time to spare. So we wandered back through the resort to settle on the back patio. In the warm sunlight, we ate our cold pizza for breakfast.
Getting on the road, we enjoyed the scenery that we were leaving in our rearview mirror and the scenery in front of us clothed in sunlight! Aunt Pam said that just when you think you have seen it all in Alaska, you see something new and beautiful.
In Anchorage we passed a sea plane lake. Driving around it and getting out for pictures, we took in the little sea planes with their little houses. (much like boat houses). They were so cute. Arriving a short second away at Rust’s, we checked in for our bear trip. We explored while we waited until it was time to leave.
At 12:30, we boarded our plane that seats four besides the pilot. I was the co-pilot since we were worried I would get sick. Taxiing down Lake Hood, we took off from the water. What an amazing experience! Since it is such a small plane, we flew lower and got to see so many beautiful sites from the sky. Throughout the flight, I watched the pilot do all the plane stuff (very technical term) and I took pictures of the view at about 115 miles per hour.
I started not feeling good toward the end as the plane swayed and shook in the wind, but then we landed. Going up to the lodge, we ate lunch of chicken salad on bread and lettuce with delicious halibut, tomato soup. We ate with the Paul’s (father, mother, and son), Marcos (Italian) and Bella (Brazilian-and we can’t remember her full name), and Jone (older lady visiting Alaska).
After lunch we boarded a boat with our guide, Brian. Touring Redoubt Bay and Wolverine Lake, we saw a beaver dam, beautiful trees and mountains, and fishing boats. We sat by two streams where salmon go up and bear come down to eat. As the day progressed, we got worried that we would see no bears. Brian still wanting the trip to be fun took us to one of the many bogs and let us get out on it. Taking off our shoes and socks, we stood on the floating moss and grasses and bounced on it. It was so cool to see how it moved almost like a trampoline.
Brian got a call on his radio about a bear siting at the fish table (where they clean the fish) so we headed over. He spotted the grizzly bear way back near the forest on the back of another bog and Aunt Pam pointed out to me. It was walking back toward the fish table and Aunt Pam spotted a little cub bouncing along behind it.
We watched them swim across the water to the table. The momma bear went fishing and gave what it caught to the baby. While the cub ate beneath the table, the mom went in for more. They hung out around the little table island and on the bog bank eating fish. She must have caught at least four. It was so amazing to sit and watch wild bear fish and eat. Then another boat scared them off and they made their way back to the woods.
Finishing off out tour, we went back the lodge for a quick regroup and then our plane was there. With the same seating arrangements, we began our hour plan ride back. Flying back was even more fun and amazing and wonderful than flying there. It was an awesome feeling being so high and seeing all the scenery. We saw half a rainbow and were flying towards it. We saw at least forty beluga whales at the base of the fresh water rivers eating salmon. When we circled back to see them, we were at at least a 75 degree angle and it was so cool looking out my window at the ocean or land below.
At the dock, we went to eat at our favorite diner, The Lucky Wishbone. I ate a burger and hot fudge malt with onion rings. Aunt Pam ate fried chicken and hot fudge malt.
Then we hit the road to Talkeetna for a two hour jump on our trip to Denali on Thursday. Passing homemade sign after homemade sign, we went on our way. A construction site slowed us down slightly, but we had good attitudes and the guy stopping us appreciated that since he had been working for 15 hours. To our complete delight, we saw most of a brilliant sunset over a lake while we were behind a pilot car. It was glorious! We were really tired and didn’t talk much.
Thankfully, we made it to Talkeetna before dark because we didn’t know where to stay and it took a while. Finally, we settled in for our one rustic night. At the Latitude 62 we switched rooms once to get clean sheets and then got ready for much needed sleep. They tried to make it nice, but it was lacking. With one double bed and one twin, there was limited room especially with the small desk and cardboard chair. Despite the guy snoring next door and passing trains, we slept sound and long.
August 17
August 17, 2010
At like 12:30 AM, my Aunt and I were rudely awakened by yelling and banging in the room behind us. Clearly drunk, the guys in the room were wrestling and yelling (a lot of profanity). After a long time, we finally called the front desk to check it out. One man was just screaming and yelling and not settling down. But sometime after 1, it was quiet and we fell back to sleep.
When we actually woke up, we got up and packed. Then we had our leftover Apollo’s and were on our way. Again on the Seward Highway, we saw breathtaking views and had great conversation. We got to see the reflection of the scenery on the glassy surface of a pond.
Arriving at the Alyeska Resort in Girdwood, we checked in and settled in our rooms. Laying on our comfy beds and sitting in the comfortable chairs. Then we went exploring. Eating at the Bar and Lounge in the hotel, we looked out over the pond and up the mountain at the moving tram.
We rode the tram up 2,000 feet. We looked around and were in and above the clouds. (Amazing feeling)! Feeling adventurous, we decided to hike down. After 22 switchbacks, the trails split and we were undecided. A man and woman came up the trail and he helped us. Come to find out he was the one that designed and made the trail! So off we went again, prepared hikers. We talked and walked with amazing views.. Since it was downhill, it was slow going and we would walk in little steps like mountain goats. Tired we decided to jog down like another hiker we saw. So holding my jeans up, we jogged down. At one point I slipped on a log and fell to my rear end. Laughing we continued on. After some confusion on what trail we were on and supposed to be on, we made it to the resort.
Relaxing in our luxurious hotel room, we watched tv and snacked. A little while later Aunt Pam went to her massage. (I opted not to get one.) After my shower, I went for a walk around the resort and took the chance to thank God for my wonderful trip and the creation He made!
The rest of the night we spent enjoying our hotel room and relaxing after our long hike. We went and got delicious pizza from Chair 5 and it was yummy. We ordered the movie Killers and laughed together as we watched.
Another great day in Alyeska!
At like 12:30 AM, my Aunt and I were rudely awakened by yelling and banging in the room behind us. Clearly drunk, the guys in the room were wrestling and yelling (a lot of profanity). After a long time, we finally called the front desk to check it out. One man was just screaming and yelling and not settling down. But sometime after 1, it was quiet and we fell back to sleep.
When we actually woke up, we got up and packed. Then we had our leftover Apollo’s and were on our way. Again on the Seward Highway, we saw breathtaking views and had great conversation. We got to see the reflection of the scenery on the glassy surface of a pond.
Arriving at the Alyeska Resort in Girdwood, we checked in and settled in our rooms. Laying on our comfy beds and sitting in the comfortable chairs. Then we went exploring. Eating at the Bar and Lounge in the hotel, we looked out over the pond and up the mountain at the moving tram.
We rode the tram up 2,000 feet. We looked around and were in and above the clouds. (Amazing feeling)! Feeling adventurous, we decided to hike down. After 22 switchbacks, the trails split and we were undecided. A man and woman came up the trail and he helped us. Come to find out he was the one that designed and made the trail! So off we went again, prepared hikers. We talked and walked with amazing views.. Since it was downhill, it was slow going and we would walk in little steps like mountain goats. Tired we decided to jog down like another hiker we saw. So holding my jeans up, we jogged down. At one point I slipped on a log and fell to my rear end. Laughing we continued on. After some confusion on what trail we were on and supposed to be on, we made it to the resort.
Relaxing in our luxurious hotel room, we watched tv and snacked. A little while later Aunt Pam went to her massage. (I opted not to get one.) After my shower, I went for a walk around the resort and took the chance to thank God for my wonderful trip and the creation He made!
The rest of the night we spent enjoying our hotel room and relaxing after our long hike. We went and got delicious pizza from Chair 5 and it was yummy. We ordered the movie Killers and laughed together as we watched.
Another great day in Alyeska!
End of Aug. 16
End of August 16, 2010
So after relaxing at the room, we got ready and headed to Ray’s Waterfront. Looking all cute, we got a table right at the window overlooking the harbor. Our meal was delicious! Aunt Pam had King Crab legs and I had Salmon and potatoes in a sweet sauce. Feeling full and happy, we went for our nightly drive stopping to get binoculars.
While we were paying, the cashier asked what we were getting them for. We answered for bears (meaning our trip planned for Wednesday). He said that if we wanted to see bears all we had to do was look around local restaurants’ garbage at dusk and he specifically said behind the Salmon Bake.
We set out to be bear hunters and were driving along next to an apartment building. When we spotted one, I said, “Oh my gosh!” and Pam said, “Ah ah,” and backed up. We parked a little ways away and it looked at us and then ran. We sat for a second and then drove forward. Another bear popped right out of the garbage! It was so cute!
Driving further we saw the first bear getting into another dumpster so we pulled in to watch. It completely mangled the lid and ruined the bear strap. A guy came out of the apartments and yelled at it, but it didn’t do much. So another guy came out and snapped his fingers and scared it away. Then they fixed the lid and someone else brought another strap out.
Driving to the salmon bake, we found the garbage. Seeing the trash scattered around and the lid open, “We were like too late” and “He’s already been here.” So we went to drive away when Aunt Pam said, “There it is.” We pulled back into a spot and watched it amble back up to the garbage. He hopped up into the trash and rested his butt on the edge while he stuffed his face glancing at us every now and then.
Then here came another one to join in. He ate the trash on the ground. We watched for about thirty minutes and then we left.
So after relaxing at the room, we got ready and headed to Ray’s Waterfront. Looking all cute, we got a table right at the window overlooking the harbor. Our meal was delicious! Aunt Pam had King Crab legs and I had Salmon and potatoes in a sweet sauce. Feeling full and happy, we went for our nightly drive stopping to get binoculars.
While we were paying, the cashier asked what we were getting them for. We answered for bears (meaning our trip planned for Wednesday). He said that if we wanted to see bears all we had to do was look around local restaurants’ garbage at dusk and he specifically said behind the Salmon Bake.
We set out to be bear hunters and were driving along next to an apartment building. When we spotted one, I said, “Oh my gosh!” and Pam said, “Ah ah,” and backed up. We parked a little ways away and it looked at us and then ran. We sat for a second and then drove forward. Another bear popped right out of the garbage! It was so cute!
Driving further we saw the first bear getting into another dumpster so we pulled in to watch. It completely mangled the lid and ruined the bear strap. A guy came out of the apartments and yelled at it, but it didn’t do much. So another guy came out and snapped his fingers and scared it away. Then they fixed the lid and someone else brought another strap out.
Driving to the salmon bake, we found the garbage. Seeing the trash scattered around and the lid open, “We were like too late” and “He’s already been here.” So we went to drive away when Aunt Pam said, “There it is.” We pulled back into a spot and watched it amble back up to the garbage. He hopped up into the trash and rested his butt on the edge while he stuffed his face glancing at us every now and then.
Then here came another one to join in. He ate the trash on the ground. We watched for about thirty minutes and then we left.
Monday, August 16, 2010
Day 3
August 16, 2010
“Good morning, tourist!” We had slept in until around 9 and got a lazy start. Deciding to eat a hearty breakfast, we went to Nellie’s. (Nellie was a pioneer of a woman, who didn’t mind killing her share of animals.) Aunt Pam had biscuits and gravy, sausage, and eggs and I had (get this) a reindeer omelet!! With toast and hash browns! It was delicious!
With our rain coats on, we walked down to the Seal Life Center (where they rescue, take care of, and release marine wild life). The puffins were one of our favorites because they are so interesting looking, but cute and funny! The resident sea lion was 1,700 pounds and looked it! We watched a video about Alaska wildlife and a little boy narrated it (so cute)!
With time to kill before our horseback ride, we decided to go check out Exit Glacier. The short drive was beautiful. Unfortunately, the rain had flooded the road so we couldn’t go up to it. If only we had the proper weather proof hiking gear. (But there was no room in our suitcases)! We saw it from afar and took pictures, of course.
At Pony Cove, we got regrouped and headed to our trail ride around 2:30. Since we were experience riders, we got the more feisty horses to our delight. With Aunt Pam on Orca (black and white paint) and me on Lamoure (copper coat and flaxen main and tale), we started off. Through the muddy trail we rode beneath a canopy of forest. Coming out into the open we crossed the river. Bree or Max (her horse) pointed out two bald eagles perched next to each other high up in a tree. Riding a little further, we saw at least eight eagles swooping around or sitting in the trees. It was amazing and I was thrilled to see the most majestic bird ever in the wild. We crossed stream after stream. Riding along the water, the view was amazing. On one side, we could see the water and mountains with clouds shrouding the details for a mystical effect. On the other side, we could see trees ranging from pine trees to bright green trees with low-hanging clouds interspersed throughout. Noticing varying animal tracks, salmon head, and eaten bird, we kept our eyes peeled for wildlife, but those were the only signs.
The horse ride was an amazing experience and I loved it despite the cold and clouds. (Lucky for us the rain stopped for the majority of the ride).
At the hotel, we regrouped and hung out until it was time to go to dinner. Since yesterday was so packed full, today has seemed slow, but still good.
“Good morning, tourist!” We had slept in until around 9 and got a lazy start. Deciding to eat a hearty breakfast, we went to Nellie’s. (Nellie was a pioneer of a woman, who didn’t mind killing her share of animals.) Aunt Pam had biscuits and gravy, sausage, and eggs and I had (get this) a reindeer omelet!! With toast and hash browns! It was delicious!
With our rain coats on, we walked down to the Seal Life Center (where they rescue, take care of, and release marine wild life). The puffins were one of our favorites because they are so interesting looking, but cute and funny! The resident sea lion was 1,700 pounds and looked it! We watched a video about Alaska wildlife and a little boy narrated it (so cute)!
With time to kill before our horseback ride, we decided to go check out Exit Glacier. The short drive was beautiful. Unfortunately, the rain had flooded the road so we couldn’t go up to it. If only we had the proper weather proof hiking gear. (But there was no room in our suitcases)! We saw it from afar and took pictures, of course.
At Pony Cove, we got regrouped and headed to our trail ride around 2:30. Since we were experience riders, we got the more feisty horses to our delight. With Aunt Pam on Orca (black and white paint) and me on Lamoure (copper coat and flaxen main and tale), we started off. Through the muddy trail we rode beneath a canopy of forest. Coming out into the open we crossed the river. Bree or Max (her horse) pointed out two bald eagles perched next to each other high up in a tree. Riding a little further, we saw at least eight eagles swooping around or sitting in the trees. It was amazing and I was thrilled to see the most majestic bird ever in the wild. We crossed stream after stream. Riding along the water, the view was amazing. On one side, we could see the water and mountains with clouds shrouding the details for a mystical effect. On the other side, we could see trees ranging from pine trees to bright green trees with low-hanging clouds interspersed throughout. Noticing varying animal tracks, salmon head, and eaten bird, we kept our eyes peeled for wildlife, but those were the only signs.
The horse ride was an amazing experience and I loved it despite the cold and clouds. (Lucky for us the rain stopped for the majority of the ride).
At the hotel, we regrouped and hung out until it was time to go to dinner. Since yesterday was so packed full, today has seemed slow, but still good.
Day 2
August 15, 2010
At 8:30 AM, Aunt Pam came back from the gym and I woke up to hear, “Good morning, tourist!” After getting ready, we went to the commissary for drinks, snacks, and a cooler. Our breakfast on-the-go was yogurt for Pam and a turkey sandwich for me.
On our way, we got onto Seward Highway. (named for the senator who fought to make Alaska a state! Seward’s Folly was Alaska’s nickname way back when) The road gave way to beautiful scene after beautiful scene! We took advantage of the camera pull outs. At Potter Marsh we walked up the (Steep!) trail and steps to overlook Cook Inlet and the surrounding mountains. Further down the road at Indian Valley, we had to take the opportunity to pan for gold. Dave instructed us (He was professional and has been panning for over 50 years). We were traumatized by a huge goose that chased us around the trough in the predatory goose maneuver. After roughly two hours of panning, we got on the road again with our priceless gold and gems.
At the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, we drove around the facility seeing a plethora of animals! The Musk Oxen were so strange looking. A moose was getting all kinds of attention because he was moving sticks around with his antlers, but we decided that the poor moose had done it on accident and was now stuck with everyone watching. The grizzly bears were awesome and so funny so were the black bears. They hung out right next the fence. Leaving the park, we were hungry so we made sandwiches with banana, peanut butter, and English muffins. Although it was filling, it was very messy. It felt like it was stuck in our throats so we had to drink soda so the carbonation could fizzle it down.
Next we drove toward Portage Glacier (even though the guide book said it had receded and couldn’t be seen well). On the way, we spotted a fish viewing platform so we pulled into it to check it out. Skeptical, we talked about the chances of seeing an actual fish was. Deciding our chances weren’t good, we walked to the platform and looked in. Happily, we were proved wrong by the multiple large salmon swimming upstream. Continuing on, we spotted Portage glacier from a distance and took pictures. Moving on, the glacier could not be seen from the visitor’s center so we turned around. Parking we could see Byron Glacier in the distance and decided to hike toward it.
We wove through a little trail between dense, lush vegetation. Turning onto a side trail, we went to the middle of a river on a rocky sand bar and took pictures. Back on the trail, we made it out closer to the glacier and took more pictures with Byron Glacier in the background. Unable to resist, we each tasted the river water filling our hands and sipping it. It was so cold, fresh, and delicious!
At 5 PM, we arrived in Seward, Alaska and checked into the Army resort. In the Pony Cove rooms, we got room 314. Driving around Seward, we took in the quaint tourist town. Strolling down, the main street we waited until 6 to eat. At Apollo’s restaurant, we ate Italian pasta with crème sauces and seafood. Aunt Pam had penne pasta and salmon and I had fettuccini and prawns, halibut, and clams.
After dinner, we had to walk off our rich meal (that was delicious). So we visited the shops down the main street. Our favorite was the Once in a Blue Moose (lol, funny pun)! Walking down to the water we looked across the water to mystical clouds covering the mountains. Going up the other side of the street, we stopped for cookies n’ cream gelato covered in dark chocolate fudge. In our car, but not ready to head to the hotel, we drove to the other side of Seward and found the ghetto. We passed a waterfall surging down the mountain and going under the bridge. Back through town, we took a picture of the sign informing people what to do in case of a tsunami.
Once again at our hotel, we hung out for a while, but were too tired to do much of anything so we finally went to sleep. We decided not to eat dinner or go to bed when we were ready, but forced ourselves to wait because we didn’t want to be old ladies.
It was a wonderful day in Alaska!
At 8:30 AM, Aunt Pam came back from the gym and I woke up to hear, “Good morning, tourist!” After getting ready, we went to the commissary for drinks, snacks, and a cooler. Our breakfast on-the-go was yogurt for Pam and a turkey sandwich for me.
On our way, we got onto Seward Highway. (named for the senator who fought to make Alaska a state! Seward’s Folly was Alaska’s nickname way back when) The road gave way to beautiful scene after beautiful scene! We took advantage of the camera pull outs. At Potter Marsh we walked up the (Steep!) trail and steps to overlook Cook Inlet and the surrounding mountains. Further down the road at Indian Valley, we had to take the opportunity to pan for gold. Dave instructed us (He was professional and has been panning for over 50 years). We were traumatized by a huge goose that chased us around the trough in the predatory goose maneuver. After roughly two hours of panning, we got on the road again with our priceless gold and gems.
At the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, we drove around the facility seeing a plethora of animals! The Musk Oxen were so strange looking. A moose was getting all kinds of attention because he was moving sticks around with his antlers, but we decided that the poor moose had done it on accident and was now stuck with everyone watching. The grizzly bears were awesome and so funny so were the black bears. They hung out right next the fence. Leaving the park, we were hungry so we made sandwiches with banana, peanut butter, and English muffins. Although it was filling, it was very messy. It felt like it was stuck in our throats so we had to drink soda so the carbonation could fizzle it down.
Next we drove toward Portage Glacier (even though the guide book said it had receded and couldn’t be seen well). On the way, we spotted a fish viewing platform so we pulled into it to check it out. Skeptical, we talked about the chances of seeing an actual fish was. Deciding our chances weren’t good, we walked to the platform and looked in. Happily, we were proved wrong by the multiple large salmon swimming upstream. Continuing on, we spotted Portage glacier from a distance and took pictures. Moving on, the glacier could not be seen from the visitor’s center so we turned around. Parking we could see Byron Glacier in the distance and decided to hike toward it.
We wove through a little trail between dense, lush vegetation. Turning onto a side trail, we went to the middle of a river on a rocky sand bar and took pictures. Back on the trail, we made it out closer to the glacier and took more pictures with Byron Glacier in the background. Unable to resist, we each tasted the river water filling our hands and sipping it. It was so cold, fresh, and delicious!
At 5 PM, we arrived in Seward, Alaska and checked into the Army resort. In the Pony Cove rooms, we got room 314. Driving around Seward, we took in the quaint tourist town. Strolling down, the main street we waited until 6 to eat. At Apollo’s restaurant, we ate Italian pasta with crème sauces and seafood. Aunt Pam had penne pasta and salmon and I had fettuccini and prawns, halibut, and clams.
After dinner, we had to walk off our rich meal (that was delicious). So we visited the shops down the main street. Our favorite was the Once in a Blue Moose (lol, funny pun)! Walking down to the water we looked across the water to mystical clouds covering the mountains. Going up the other side of the street, we stopped for cookies n’ cream gelato covered in dark chocolate fudge. In our car, but not ready to head to the hotel, we drove to the other side of Seward and found the ghetto. We passed a waterfall surging down the mountain and going under the bridge. Back through town, we took a picture of the sign informing people what to do in case of a tsunami.
Once again at our hotel, we hung out for a while, but were too tired to do much of anything so we finally went to sleep. We decided not to eat dinner or go to bed when we were ready, but forced ourselves to wait because we didn’t want to be old ladies.
It was a wonderful day in Alaska!
1st Day
August 14, 2010
At 3:30 AM, my journey to my dream place began. With Mom and Amy, I started from Ridgecrest, CA headed to LAX airport about two hours. On the way, I sat in the back listening to my traveling buddies and joining in the conversation every so often. Looking out my window, Orion was shining brilliantyl in the black desert sky. I dozed for the rest of the ride worried that we were running late. Arriving a little before 6 AM, I had plenty of time. Once there, Mom and Amy halped me check my bag (since I had checked in online- very convenient!). We prayed together and said good-byes. I headed toward security to wait for my 7:45 flight.
Sitting in seat 16A, I had the window. It is an amazing feeling to look down to a lake of smooth white clouds with occasional mounds rising from the otherwise flat clouds! I slept for most of the flight. I arrived in Salt Lake City, Utah with time to spare before my connection. Boarding my connection, I sat in seat 33C on the row above a wing (Not ideal, but who's complaining). Happily, I found that we each had our own tv with complimentary in flight movies. After my first movie, I read, but kept dozing off. So I tried to sleep, I was so tired. (Hadn't really slept the night before, too excited) However, sleeping on the aisle seat is no easy task when your head rolls around as soon as you fall asleep. So I had to try to entertain myself since I didn't think the lady next to me would have liked me putting my head on her shoulder to get some Zzz's! I started another movie and got there before I finished.
The Anchorage airport is unique and beautifully done. I text my Aunt Pam that I had arrived. I looked out the long window to majestic mountains and low hanging clouds(thinking now that is why I wanted to come to Alaska). Reading a text from Pam that read: We r n ALASKA!!, I looked up to see her waving at me! We hugged happily and began to catch up. Then we got my bag and went to our rental car. (Which we have yet to figure out what it is!) It is like a PT Cruiser and Box Car cross. Deciding to start in on our adventure, we went to the Anchorage Museum. Beautiful paintings by Sydney Laurence and awesome visuals for varying things. It was full of information about Alaska's history so we picked three things to remember. (Keep it simple and realistic!) The clothing on display was amazing and so different and ornate.
Hungry from our travels and hard work at the museum, we decided to go the Lucky Wishbone recommended in Aunt Pam's Alaska book. It was a lovely little diner that the locals visit. Hamburger for my Aunt and fish sandwich for me, we shared fries and had yummy hot fudge malts! Now that is fun!
We drove to Elmendorf Air Force Base to get our condo. First, we drove around the base to check it out. Then we were ready to check in, but could not find our acommadations. Finally we spotted the tiny sign. After checking in, we went to the rather nice place and got settled. Too tired to do anything, we hung out making ourselves stay up. We watched 48 hour Mystery and were frustrated because it remains unsolved. Finally, at the old lady hour of 9:30 PM, we went to sleep.
At 3:30 AM, my journey to my dream place began. With Mom and Amy, I started from Ridgecrest, CA headed to LAX airport about two hours. On the way, I sat in the back listening to my traveling buddies and joining in the conversation every so often. Looking out my window, Orion was shining brilliantyl in the black desert sky. I dozed for the rest of the ride worried that we were running late. Arriving a little before 6 AM, I had plenty of time. Once there, Mom and Amy halped me check my bag (since I had checked in online- very convenient!). We prayed together and said good-byes. I headed toward security to wait for my 7:45 flight.
Sitting in seat 16A, I had the window. It is an amazing feeling to look down to a lake of smooth white clouds with occasional mounds rising from the otherwise flat clouds! I slept for most of the flight. I arrived in Salt Lake City, Utah with time to spare before my connection. Boarding my connection, I sat in seat 33C on the row above a wing (Not ideal, but who's complaining). Happily, I found that we each had our own tv with complimentary in flight movies. After my first movie, I read, but kept dozing off. So I tried to sleep, I was so tired. (Hadn't really slept the night before, too excited) However, sleeping on the aisle seat is no easy task when your head rolls around as soon as you fall asleep. So I had to try to entertain myself since I didn't think the lady next to me would have liked me putting my head on her shoulder to get some Zzz's! I started another movie and got there before I finished.
The Anchorage airport is unique and beautifully done. I text my Aunt Pam that I had arrived. I looked out the long window to majestic mountains and low hanging clouds(thinking now that is why I wanted to come to Alaska). Reading a text from Pam that read: We r n ALASKA!!, I looked up to see her waving at me! We hugged happily and began to catch up. Then we got my bag and went to our rental car. (Which we have yet to figure out what it is!) It is like a PT Cruiser and Box Car cross. Deciding to start in on our adventure, we went to the Anchorage Museum. Beautiful paintings by Sydney Laurence and awesome visuals for varying things. It was full of information about Alaska's history so we picked three things to remember. (Keep it simple and realistic!) The clothing on display was amazing and so different and ornate.
Hungry from our travels and hard work at the museum, we decided to go the Lucky Wishbone recommended in Aunt Pam's Alaska book. It was a lovely little diner that the locals visit. Hamburger for my Aunt and fish sandwich for me, we shared fries and had yummy hot fudge malts! Now that is fun!
We drove to Elmendorf Air Force Base to get our condo. First, we drove around the base to check it out. Then we were ready to check in, but could not find our acommadations. Finally we spotted the tiny sign. After checking in, we went to the rather nice place and got settled. Too tired to do anything, we hung out making ourselves stay up. We watched 48 hour Mystery and were frustrated because it remains unsolved. Finally, at the old lady hour of 9:30 PM, we went to sleep.
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