Alaska APN Adventure

Red sky at night sailor's delight........

2011-11-17T11:56:00.001-08:00

At first glance this could be the old piers on the Spit in Sand Point..but it's part of the Peter Pan cannery here in Naknek. One thing I have discovered here so far is the sunsets and sunrises are absolutely spectacular despite the absolutely brutal winds and cold. Sand Point had wind mind you, but here they have WIND AND EXTREME COLD, I'm talking below zero already and when the high gets up to 14 during the day I can feel the warmth!

It only took a few minutes to see the sun sink behind this breaker, but by then my fingers were frozen and stiff and all I could think was "hot chocolate, hot chocolate."

The Naknek River opens into Bristol Bay and Bristol Bay opens into the frigid waters of the Bering Sea. I'm sure you watch Alaska's Deadliest Catch and see how rough and violent the seas are during their crab fishing seasons. Well that's now and the wind is as violent here and will be bringing ice on the water as the temperature continues to plummet throughout the winter.

The tide seems to change rapidly and after one close call and rising tide, I decided viewing from afar was best and safest!!

Each cannery here puts their boats into dry-dock and they are just waiting for the harsh winter to take it's toll before the short fishing season arrives and begins in early July.

The roads become ice rinks pretty quick with snow build up, melt, rain and the show "ice road truckers" have nothing on us down here.

Another great sunset..what more can you say?

The river is freezing and thawing daily and the ice floats I see today can be gone tomorrow or the entire river frozen all the way across.

More ice floats...

Another far away view of the mountains I miss.

One of my favorite shots on the way to work...all I need now is to be curled up nest to my husband and a warm fire!!

Knocking around Naknek

2011-11-08T16:28:00.000-08:00

Well, what a lovely day to get out and drive around and see the neighboring sites. Very few mountains and if there are any, they are wayyyyy over there!!

This is South Naknek across the river that I am looking at. Even in the background a lonely cold volcano stands watch...it's not Pavloff though:(

And what a flat straight stretch of road this is....miles and miles of flat tundra between Naknek and King Salmon.

Another view of Naknek and the canneries that line the Naknek River. I hear this sleepy little town of 400 swells to over 10,000 in the summer with the Red Salmon season that runs for a few short weeks. WOW!!
So many new sights to see, but on a walk I spied some old familiar ones, too....

like a lone ptarmagin in mid-winter change.

A pretty surf and sea grass over here on the Bristol Bay side. The water is a gray silt from the glacier run-offs, a far different color than the Aleutian Blue around Sand Point.

I don't have to worry about buffalo here, but there are bears here, wolves, foxes, and oh yeah....the brown dog!!

I inhereited this guy with the cabin I am staying in, he comes in at night, eats, sleeps by the Toyo stove and once nightly gets up to drink from the toilet then retreats back to the stove side. In the morning he leaves and fends for himself during the day only to return to my porch every night!!

And the ever present self-shadow...recognize me?!?!

A summer fish cabin for set-netters during the summer fishing season.

No that isn't a cross for a grave next to the cabin, but a clothes line for drying fish or anything else needing drying!

And after that beautiful clear blue sky, I woke the next morning to another first...4-6 inches of fresh COLD powder fell and the temperatures continued to plummet for the next few days...oh boy do I need some warm clothes and especially a heavier coat! Oh where o where is my down parka??? I feel a care package coming!!

Update to My Wanderings

2011-10-28T14:10:00.001-07:00

Okay, I know I have a lot of followers and folks who are interested in Alaska. So here is the scoop on what I've been up to, where I am and where I am not....

I finished my contract for Eastern Aleutian Tribes and decided I would see what the rest of the state had to offer for an adventure seeking Nurse Practitioner from the south. SO, I packed up, shipped all my rocks and stuff home, and layed low for 3 weeks for a well deserved break, warmth and some quality time with family. I then boarded a plane and came back to the great state and wound up in Naknek by way of King Salmon.

So here I am, Aleutians I am not, for an 8 week site visit. Already I have walked along the beach, picked up a pocket full of rocks washed up from Bristol Bay, and experienced this heaven forsaken beast called a VAN that is half Mercedes and half Dodge...totalling one big POS!!!

The beach here in Naknek is clearly marked.......individuals claim rocks for their boundaries for fishing permits.....let's see someone try to move it!!!

The beach is even used by vehicles for shortcuts through.... the beach?!?

I'm living in a small but quaint cabin and have made friends with all the neighborhood dogs and am on my way to another adventure. Who's coming with me??

Halibut Fishing 101

2011-09-01T14:49:00.000-07:00

After fishing like crazy off the city dock, I felt I was getting pretty good at this sport and even mastered the skill of filleting. So when I was invited to go out on skiff and fish for the famous yet delicious Halibut.....I was in fish heaven.

I was told about 3 times the price of the rod and reel, so I stored that in my head and thought whatever you do, "don't drop this pole overboard!" I'm sure it would have been more acceptable to go 0verboard myself, since the price tag on me has yet to be determined!

First things first and bait had to be caught....and this guy was no bigger than an overgrown minnow, but we all got our hooks baited and off we went.

I had license, two power bands to prevent seasickness, water and the ever handy camera!!

Gotta have that self photo to prove I am here!

What a beautiful evening and even more beautiful view of Mud Bay in Sand Point.

And what a backdrop the Ridge adds to the view!!

I was feeling pretty proud of my catch (little white guy top corner) until Nate hauled this monster in and plopped it down beside mine. Now, who is the bait??

The sunset created such gorgeous colors and seemed like rainbow icing on a cake!

And then I spotted a vertical rainbow over the Ridge and it was like God said, "here ya go, have another slice!"

As we headed back to the harbor, whales were breaching and rolling all around us and we had to stop and just soak in the beautiful surroundings. Knowing this was probably the one and only time I would be out here before I leave, I had to fight back a few tears.

The reflection of the sky in the window was a shot I couldn't pass up.

As we pulled back in to the harbor a little before 11 PM, the water was like glass and Lesley was waiting on the dock to catch our victorious return back home.

Once at home with a freezer full of fish, I couldn't help but let few tears slide, this was truly the trip and adventure of my life. Yes, thank you God!!

Happy Birthday to Me!!! Unga bound!!

2011-07-30T13:42:00.000-07:00

What a day we had today! When I was awakened this morning by my favorite mother-in-law at 6:30 am to wish me a happy birthday 24 hours early...I wasn't so sure what the day was going to unfold like........I had no idea what a day God had planned for me and my Pastor's family.

But He did and what a blessing we had. Not only was it the most clear, pristine day we had in almost a month, but it was warm (64 degrees), no wind and our friend Rick invited us to go on a boat ride to the neighboring island of Unga.

Waaaahoooo!!! I have bugged people for 2 1\2 years to take me over there to explore and today was our day!!

I've never changed clothes, packed and scooted out the door so fast in all my days here. But in 15 minutes, I had gear, food, water, extra clothes, TWO cameras, 3 batteries, lip balm....but no sunscreen....oops..

As we were pulling out of the harbor, Pavloff and the Sister volcanoes were peaking over Unga as if they were standing guard and watching over us.

Between us and Unga, we watched whales spout, breach and roll along both shorelines. Occasionally we would watch one come out of the water like a torpedo and splash in the ocean, stunning the fish so the rest of the pod could feed.

As we got nearer to Unga, Rick pointed out the Elephant Rock formation along the rugged shoreline.

Long-necked Cormorants, fat and colorful puffins, and noisy gulls flew over our head or dove in the cold waters around us, keeping us entertained along the way. A few eagles even soared around us checking the visitors out.

And then the first glimpse of Unga Village, long abandoned, but still weathering the Aleutian winds and climate.

The church walls have collapsed, but the steeple still shouts its presence. Several of the elders here were married in this church while they still lived on Unga. At one time there were over 5000 people who lived here and after I saw the place, I wondered, "WHY DID THEY MOVE?"

The tide was low when we got here so we did a little beach combing, rock climbing and even had a picnic on the warm sand. PB & J never tasted so good! We picked up a bunch of beach glass for souveniers and considered it our way of beach-clean up as well.

The remains of the school here look pretty modern still. The last residents left here around 1964 when the new harbor was built over in Sand Point. What memories they must have and stories I would love to hear.

A bird's eye view of the cove inlet and the gorgeous God-given day we had!

Of course a photo of self to again prove (to myself) I was really fortunate enough to be here.

More sea birds enjoying the day and the rocky perch.

And away we went, this time we are heading over to Squaw Harbor, where there are still some people living and being more like care-takers of the place.

Skipper Rick and crewman James out enjoying the sun and conversation......uuuuhhhhh....who's driving the boat????

Squaw Harbor and the old processing plant. All the worn red still makes for a colorful scene to welcome new and old visitors alike.

Amazing!

What a beautiful sandy beach...I think I would like to live here...for a while that is!! I'm sure the winds and rain make it here, too.

The sea lions were sunning themselves minding their own business and then we show up. They heard us and dove into the water before we could get too close.

And the trip back was no less enjoyable. Doesn't our new airport terminal look beautiful?

And look, Pavloff and the Sister are still watching over us as were return. What an absolutely amazing day, thank you Rick and James for the trip of a lifetime! All of this right in our backyard!

Home sweet home and another glorious day added to my Aleutian adventure!! TYG!!!

Don't worry, I'll catch ya.........

2011-06-07T12:46:00.000-07:00

Those words are supposed to bring reassurance to a leery sole..........kind of like "Hi, I'm from the government and I am here to help you."

Yeah, right!! Well meaning intentions are not always followed by the action we desire.

Such is the case I experienced last Saturday when a friend and I hiked to the infamous Pirates Cove on the far northeastern side of the island.

Here's how the day began.....

The tide was super low at 11 am and Patrick and I headed out to the Sand Dollar Beach, planning to hike the beach all the way to Pirate's Cove. Neither of us had been to that point of the island, so we were up for the challenge. Patrick is visiting here and it was great to have a hiking partner with me.

The beach at Sand Dollar is sand stretched out from one end of the cove to the other and was great for walking on. However, that was the last easy stretch of sand we saw until we hit the other side of the island.

The shore line was nothing but these huge rocks and boulders all slick with seaweed and ocean scum. This made the travel slower and a bit more difficult since you had to constantly look down for your next step, and that didn't always guarantee you weren't going to slip and fall.

And boy did I on several occasions.

The grandest was when Patrick leaped across a small creek and uttered those little words to me, "don't worry, I'll catch ya......" Well, the little creek was filled with rushing water full of melt-off from the mountains and yes Patrick did catch me, right before my head went under as I fell back into the creek from not quite making the leap like he did.

My breath froze in my chest as I struggled to stand up and crawl out onto the bank. Oh that water was far worse than cold!! Ringing water out of every stitch of clothes, it took a few seconds before I realized, crap...I messed up again!

But, between the two of us, we had spare socks, spare coat, and even a spare pair of rain pants. So, I was able to shuck some of the wet things and go on with the journey. I mean why stop now?? Thankfully my matches and lighter, camera and GPS device were unscathed and other than Patrick feeling bad, I was not hurt and nonetheless ready to go.

This is the first view we saw as we topped the bank and gazed at the infamous Pirate's Cove.

What a cozy spot back here and it immediately made the dunking seem like such a long time ago.

I've been told at one time there was a post office, store and houses over here, even a processing station.

There is even a lone tree and it looks about as beat up and weathered as my feet feel right now.

The geographical rock formations are quite unique and it was great to explore them and wander the quiet crevices compared to the ones we crawled over to get here.

Not quite sure what the custom built Ford Ranger's job had been, but it seemed to add a little to the scenery around "town."

The only building standing is an abandoned cabin and surprisingly it was in pretty good shape.

So it was reassuring to know if the weather were to change and catch you out here, there is shelter ...........

and even the shelves are pretty well stocked.....

I don't even remember this cereal, do you?? Got milk to go with it???

I hung my wet clothes on drift wood and walked the beach collecting beach glass and treasures while Patrick headed around the next horn to the next cove.

I don't necessarily have a bucket list, but I do have things I want to do before I leave here and now I can definitely mark this adventure off my list.

We headed back to my waiting 4 wheeler at Sand Dollar beach and timed it a little too close as we had to wade through the rising tide a time or two around rocky cliffs.

But, all in all it was a good day, I learned valuable lessons AGAIN and got a few good pictures along the way.

The otters even cast us a playful eye as we trekked past their feeding spot and headed home to our own.

Lessons Learned

2011-03-15T21:57:00.000-07:00

Well, we are never to old to learn lessons and thankfully I am still alive to write about them. I was bound and determined to go out for a long hike and Red Cove Lake was my destination this day.

So, I packed the bag with all the essentials...food, water, radio, extra socks, camera and extra battery....and off I headed. I have two GPS devices and abandoned the thought of taking them, after all, this is an island and if you know where you are going, how can you get lost? Right??

The trail was still frozen and this made travel a lot easier. The temp is supposed to get up to high 30's and the sun has been coming and going making for a pleasant day to hike. Not much wind kept me warm, too.

Looks simple enough doesn't it?

Well, something should have told me this was going to be a heck of a day when I fell in the first creek I came to, soaking my right foot and sock, scratched my hand and dropped the camera...great all that in one trip!!

Ahhh hah!! The famous buffalo and their signs! Maybe I will get to view them today...from a distance that is!!

Made it to the edge of the lake with only the one incident and took the self photo before I headed around the bank to the beach rarely visited.

The edges were frozen and cracked and shoved up against the bank that made travel slow and pretty slick in places..of course the Yaktrax were at home with the GPS devices, cause I wasn't going to need them, right?? I even had to crawl on hands and knees at one point cause the alders were so grown out over the ice I knew it was dangerous to walk out that far on ice...at least I listened to my Dad's voice somewhere along the line!!

Two hours later I emerged on the beach tired, wondering if this was such a great idea and hungry already. So, I sat and ate my snacks and just enjoyed the surf. I thought about going back the way I came, but when I remembered having to crawl on my hands and knees around alders and slipping over the edge of ice, I decided it would be safer and probably faster if I headed up a trail, over the Ridge and back to the 4-wheeler.

One last shot as I headed up the trail and back to the 4 wheeler....and then, just like that, the trail disappears up here!!

How in the world does a perfectly good trail one minute turn into this brown frenzy of rock, alders, ice covered snow and ravines deeper than heaven knows what??? But it does and it did!!

I wandered around, heading in the direction I thought would lead to the main trail...and wandered and wandered and wandered........then topping a small hill....

This guys is standing...all by himself and no one else around!! There were tracks all over in the snow, but where was the rest of the gang?? In these brown alders, they could be laying down and I would never see them till I was right on them...or they on me!!

So, I bushwhacked for almost an hour to get around him and potential company and just seemed to get lost'er and lost'er and farther from anything I recognized and I began to realize I chose the wrong way home!

I did my share of praying and lo and behold, when I would get to the end of Laura's rope, there God would give me a glimpse of the trail in the distance and I would head for it. Not to mention I had ravines to scale down, more creeks and ice to cross. I fell numerous times on the snow covered ice and even once my knees buckled from being so tired and a stick went up between my glasses and my eye and then I was really mad for getting myself into this mess. And scared!!

It was dangerous up here...alone...no GPS and my biggest problem, I was so turned around, if I had to call for help, I didn't know how I would tell them to get to me...I didn't know where I was!!

A mere 5 1/2 hours later, the trail emerged again by God's grace and I sat to take one more rest. I ate all my food, drank all my water and donned both pair of socks over my sorely blistered heels, my bruised toes and beaten spirit.

How could I have been so foolish and silly? Oh it happened alright and it was rather easy....the entire day took me 7 1/2 hours of hiking over this mess.

As soon as I got home, I dropped my clothes and boots in the living room, headed to the bathroom and soaked in a tub of hot water till my feet stopped throbbing.

The blisters have healed, I think I will loose the two toenails, and I got a good picture of the buffalo....from a distance.....was it worth it??? Probably not, but it was a lesson I won't forget for a very long time!!!

Again, TYG!!!!

Post way over due with a view way over the top!

2011-02-02T07:31:00.000-08:00

Someone asked if I was too busy to post on here anymore and I hesitated before I said.....almost!! Let the pictures speak for me this time........enjoy!!!!!

I have been out a few times, but with a bit of traveling, lot's of call and a busy, hectic pace...I have fallen short on my wanderings....not to worry though....wander lust is still strong!!

Walking in a Windy, Wintry Land..or trying to at least

2010-12-06T19:36:00.000-08:00

After about 3 weeks of call and that many days working in a row....I called it quits and said the heck with this...and bundled up for a walk along the bluff today. The temperature is hovering around 32 with gusts of wind 30 mph but the sun was out...so therefore I had to go out, too.

We've had snow and freezing temperatures that froze the tundra and just powdered the ground, but that wind....whew!! That is tough! The only time I ever feel skinny is walking out here along the bluff and an occasional gust catches me off gaurd and sends me grasping for a good foot hold.

Every once in a while a few snow or sleet pellets would hit my face and sting, but for the most part, I am warm as toast in my layers and down.

Looking back on Sand Point, it really is beautiful terrain and the fresh air out here makes me forget the long days I've had..and am going to have before relief gets here. Also I never know what the weahter is going to be like, so any break I can get, I take it.

I feel like I was out on work release or good behavior and got to spend a little time out here, but seeing the sunset behind Unga Island made it worth the very short while.

The walk along the bluff is always breathtaking and today in the cold and wind, it was no exception.

Whether I am looking towards Buffalo Ridge or over the harbor to see Pavlof, the view never disappoints and it helps refresh my soul and mind to get ready for another few days of nose to the grind. Then I am off to Arkansa for a few weeks of good, ol southern comfort!

Looking up at the Ridge, I wonder when I will get up there next? Probably not till next year. Oh, well, that's only a few short weeks away isn't it?

Then like all good things that must come to and end.......so must my walk along the bluff....if only for a time. As I turn back to the van, the sun salutes me one more time and slips behind the mountains and the wind drives me home.

Lost and NOT found!!

2010-11-18T17:54:00.000-08:00

It all started with a coat..this one to be exact....my Cabela's breathable, packable, light rain jacket that I dearly loved...yes loved...and lost....with an iPod in the breast pocket!!

Lost, you say? Yes...out here amongst these alder bushes on an excursion with Kels and my Aussie buddy Dianna back in July.

This is the third time I have been out here looking for it. I came out right after I lost it when all the leaves were green and after 2 hours of looking, I realized I was about 200 yards from where we had actually been....ooops......it all looked the same! The second time it was much more lush with growth and vegetation and all I saw was...green, green, and more green. And all I found was nothing, nothing, and more nothing!

I thought I would have better luck when the leaves turned brown and fell off, so today, I tried again. Third time is a charm, right??

WRONG< WRONG< WRONG!!!!

As I was weaving, tripping, and sliding over alders, rocks and moss, the only thing I saw out here was about a dozen eagles roosting in the bushes and ravens flying over my head trying to check me out.

As I was climbing up one ravine and down the other, I was reminded of my Grandmother's timber and all the exploring we did as kids. Except this isn't timber, it has no trees, is about 100 times as large, is much farther from my home and actually nothing like the familiar timber along the Vermilion River at Grandma's.

The rains and wind probably took my coat and blew it, washed it and floated it down the stream and I wonder if it is down there at Red Cove Lake or over to Unga somewhere????

After another 2 hours, I figured all was lost and I better head for the hills and find the trail up there.

Looking back, the sun rays were spectacular and all of a sudden, I was reminded there were more important things than a missing Cabela's jacket and an iPod.

I guess after seeing this beautiful sight and remembering I have 14 more coats and an iTouch at home, it seems I need to just chock the jacket up to lost..gone..buried...forever.

So I turned my course to the blazer.....

way over there, and headed home.

This is a look of satisfaction and peace rather than regret over the lost "stuff."

And the trail emerges and leads me back along familiar ground,

and beautiful scenery.

The signs of success...faithful trekking pole, sturdy day pack, and gorgeous weather rolled into one fine day.

Farewell jacket and iPod...you may be lost and never again to be found...but you sure added to and were a great part of my Aleutian Adventure!

A Bike Ride to Remember

2010-10-30T09:16:00.001-07:00

A little bit of sunshine goes a long way here. If the days look clear and I am not on call...I am heading out. Do I ever do chores? Housework? Laundry? Yes, but only after I have had my fun in the sun!!

I took off a day during the week and decided I would take the back trails and hike to Red Cove the back way. I had to go by the reservoir and I was pleased to discover the family of swans sunning and swimming on this beautiful day.

It takes a good 2 hours to walk the trail to the top and for some reason I got a wild hair today and thought, "I bet it would be shorter if I just "rode" to the top on my 4 wheeler"....so I did.

It still took a good 1 1/2 hours cause the trail is more like serious 3-5 feet ruts and I had to pick and choose and crawl the bike through some spots.

I kept telling myself this was like riding a horse...then the sane side kicked in and said "no it's not, stupid" this is much harder and a little scarier. But, I kept at at and slowly but surely, I made my way up to the top........

Wow! What an accomplishment! I did a radio check and was heard loud and clear...so I was safe for another day. It was gorgeous, not much wind and so sunny...almost makes me forget about all the rain we had this summer....almost!!

I parked the bike and just wondered around taking pictures of the back of Battle Mountain.....

and Red Cove Lake from the opposite side I usually hike...but beautiful none the less.

I built a monument in honor of my Grandmother who died recently at the wonderful age of 97 and for my friend Bryce's father who passed away this morning....both will be remembered and missed and I think they would both agree this is a beautiful place to be honored!

Of course what goes up, must come down and that I did as well. I felt a good sense of accomplishment and a wee bit taller for doing this today. The ride as well as the monument.

And then, as I sat watching the swans in the fading afternoon, the young gosling made a spectacle of himself and beat the water with his wings as if to say "just because I can."

I may not be young anymore, but I sure do what I can. If my arms didn't hurt so bad from hanging on to the bike up and down this mountain...I'd beat them and flap my wings, too....just because I can and I did!

Taking the Ridge

2010-10-09T09:03:00.000-07:00

I know, I know!!! It has been way too long since I posted and my followers are getting on me for not keeping them up to date with my shenanigans! A million apologies and here we go gain!

After my Mom left, I have had a couple of great breaks in the weather and have needed to get out and really stretch and challenge myself. Today, was that kind of day. I could see a little snow on the tip of the Ridge and there wasn't much wind, so off I headed for another trek. I had plans to walk to the other side of the island, where my friends Thai and Katie had set up a stone monument and where I too had added a rock for my presence as well. So I loaded the back pack, took three different sets of gear (anticipation of the Aleutian weather will save your life), grabbed a few snacks and up I headed.

The weather started out clear skies with a few scattered clouds, but nonetheless beautiful!

Won't be long before those mountains are thick with snow and you won't see any ground until May or longer.

The Ridge has a light powder on it and this should make for an easy hike, the ground frozen and hopefully not slick up there. Regardless...it's calling my name!

Found a great rock to lean against while I took my first break and had a snack. I had left word with my room-mate where I was going, took the radio and did not plan to be back until late afternoon. I had headlamp, GPS, flashlight, matches, food, water, and several pair of extra socks....just in case...

Sitting here, I watched these mysterious clouds float over the water and seem to consume the boat out there, but seconds later..it was gone. I wondered what low lying clouds they were...fog, snow, sleet, rain...what?

Up here though, I had clear skies and a huge funnel cloud approaching..unlike the deadly ones we have back in Arkansas to be sure.

Half way up and the self photo to prove I am here. This time, I have two pair of gloves and am decked for whatever the weather should bring.

Nearly to the other side of the island I see another cove I haven't made it to, yet. Fox Hole this one is called. So far, it took me 3 hours to get here and when I did a radio check to pick up signal, I was at 1270 feet elevation and coming in loud and clear. Good to know..

Ahhhh, at last..the monument, called Katie's Point. Thai named it that, no one knows what I am talking about, but he knows where it is when I tell him I've been there and done that. A few of the rocks had blown down in the fierce winds we have, so I added them back and tucked another one in there for me. I sat with my back to the wind, ate my lunch/snack and just enjoyed the view.

I was probably only 1/4 mile from this shore, which is the other side of the island, but it looked full of alders and was bushwhacking all the way. I made myself realize that I had to walk back every step and I had already taken 4 hours to just get here! So I was content to just sit and revel in the beauty of the neighboring Shumagin and Nagai Islands.

I had my back to the ridge and when I decided it was time to head back, as I stepped out from behind my wind break wall, I saw this ominous thing in my path.

Wow, where did my blue sky, go?
Remember that cloud that overtook the boat earlier and my question, "I wonder what that is?"

Well, boy-howdy did I find out quick!!

White out!! Snow and sleet pellets blinded me and on came the extra gear. Looking back, the Ridge just seemed to fade right before my eyes.

But it didn't disappear. Two minutes later and it was history and all I had left were the drops melting on my coat to prove something had just happened.

I've learned to respect the weather, the terrain and even my instincts up here. If I get a tingling sensation in my gut, it usually alerts me to changing conditions and time to be extra careful.

I am Mom, I promise. I have figured out the best gear is a little pricier than some other stuff, but up here, literally your life depends on it. That and a lighter and broad-band radio are necessities, too.

As I am heading home, the clouds are turning grayer and I am getting tired. I am not sore, my feet and legs have carried me well...my only wish??

Grilled steak and portabello mushrooms waiting when I get home!!

No such luck on the steak and shrooms, but I did have a great day of hiking to the other side. No buffalo in sight but I know they are there and soon the hunters will find them, too. When they discover my tracks up there, they may wonder who was crazy enough to walk all the way up here??

Why me of course, what else do you do with what you have been given? Good weather, good shoes and a gift of nature when you take the Ridge.

Another beach explored

2010-10-01T21:33:00.000-07:00

I had a little time to myself after work and decided to head to a beach my Mom and I had spied a week or so ago. We were walking on the bluff and this beach is in a less traveled area and obviously is not as popular to travel.

The route down was not as accessible as Sand Dollar Beach and there wasn't much of it, but it was new to me and I was up for a new adventure.

Right below Danger Point lies this beach that was just laden with petrified wood and devoid of foot prints...except mine.....

I had to scoot down a small embankment on my backside and it may not have looked graceful, but it was the safest route I knew!

There wasn't much length to the beach, but I had it to myself and I enjoyed hanging out here, watching the winds drive the waves and listen to the rhythmic sound crash against the shores.

The boot-scoot trail I used to get here today....

I brought an empty backpack in anticipation of what treasures I might pick up...and started it off with a huge chunk of petrified wood...

I don't pretend to know exactly how this is done, but I know it takes a tremendous amount of pressure and time..getting tossed here and to and coming from who knows where to land here...on this less explored beach on Popof Island!

And then I spy this huge piece of wood driven into the ground like a huge bears behind sticking up for all to see. What forces of nature did this, how ferocious it must have been. And then this small delicate plant life springing up .......from the bears behind!! Ouch...

Ahhhhh, such solitude! I wish I could bottle the sound and play it before I go to sleep.

The snow capped mountains line the ocean shore and paint such a peaceful backdrop.

I have a topographical map of the island and I think I will get some red push pins and mark the spots I've explored on the island. This beach is definitely going to be a place I come back and visit again real soon.

I might have some slick, steep trails to scoot down,

But the treasures that wait for me here are well worth the slide!

My how time flies

2010-09-20T06:59:00.001-07:00

Wow, where does time go? My mother first mentioned she wanted to come out and see me on the island over a year ago, so the planning began. This spring we started discussing what time would be best for her to travel out here and when would be a good time for me as far as taking time off from work. Time crept up on us and before we knew it, the time was here for her to make a solo journey to Alaska, yet alone the island. Now the time has past and she is already back at home! So sad...for all the planning..the waiting and anticipation and then you blink and time is gone!

But thank goodness for digital cameras and the memories they produce. We can go back in time albeit our memories and relive our journey that way. We might not be able to taste or touch or smell what we encountered, but we certainly can remember and reminisce about it.

We were certainly blessed with beautiful weather when we went to Seward for a daylong glacier tour. This was Mom's surprise birthday present and I believe she was totally surprised. I even packed away the Under Armour thermal underwear for her cause I knew she would freeze to death. It was a gorgeous 55ish degrees, and so beautiful on the water.

The harbor was still with numerous vessels and we took the Glacier Express catamaran for the experience of a lifetime. It was a small vessel that only about 50 people were on and we were served prime rib and fresh salmon as a special meal. Yum, yum!

Portage glacier receding from the shoreline.

Lot's of glacial overhangs.

The water looked like the Caribbean, it was so blue..only 40 degree water, not swimming season for us humans though!

Proud to be an American enjoying this great place with my Mom and watching her have the adventure of a lifetime!

Bear glacier and glacier fields in the mountains.

Trees, trees, and more trees! I miss trees!!! Would you ever think you would miss something so simple? I never did until I have none to look at on the island!

Stellar seals sunning and barking on the rocks. I don't know why they don't just roll right off those rocks.....I know I would..

More glacial overhangs and more beautiful blue skies, calm waters and more TREES!!

Holgate glacier and even calmer waters as we head into the fjords.

And then the Aliak glacier looms out in front. This is where the captain has chosen to take us to view up close and personal today.

And up close we got. This vessel is about 32 feet long and look what a shrimp it looks like compared to the glacier.

The blue hue from the glacier is from the snow and the pressure and the materials pressed to make the glacial ice. Also it is from the way light is absorbed and not reflected. I don't pretend to understand that at all, I just know I am standing in front of one of God's many wonders and was totally amazed.

I wasn't the only one amazed! The white hatted lady is my Mom, mesmerized by the sheer beauty of where she is standing!

Even the glacial ice in the water still held the blue hue. The crew even scooped up some ice and made us blue margarita for the ride home! One was more than enough on a boat, waves and tequila do not compliment each other....

The captain cut the engines and we could hear the cracks and groans of the ice. It sounded like shot guns erupting as huge chunks the size of cars "calved" and crashed into the water sending up sprays stories high into the air.

I can't begin to describe how this looked, sounded and even felt. The temperature was definitely 10 degrees cooler here than back at Seward and you could just feel the cold coming from this massive chunk of ice!

As we pull away, the wake from the boat is the only thing left behind in these icy blue waters.

Wow! What can I say?

More beautiful scenery on the way back.

And the Orca waves us a farewell we certainly won't forget.......

Old bunkers from WWII left high above the water. This is the last look out post used to guard the shores of Alaska from invasion from enemies.

More seals sunning themselves on this beautiful day.

And then to top off our ride home, I spotted this moose on the side of the road and did a U-turn to get in a few shots.

Caught the reflection of the mountains in this lake full of lily pads.

What a view as we headed back to Anchorage and enjoyed the fall foliage. If I hadn't been driving, I would have filled my camera with all the golds and greens from the gorgeous display of of fall colors. I have my memories though and I have that precious but fleeting thing and the determination that I will be back this way again....another time!

Standing here in awe!!

2010-09-10T08:04:00.000-07:00

When I headed out the door to go to work, this was the view I had from the parking lot and ran back to get my camera. This was something I wouldn't want to miss!

My neighbor was just returning from work and he asked if I wanted to go out and watch it rise and I said sure...work just had to wait....so out to Green Hill we went!

The air was slightly crisp with the fall breeze and the fresh smell of the ocean was better than any Starbucks aroma I've encountered.

Not even a magpie or eagle or gull flew overhead and the only sound we heard was the soft waves hitting the shore below.

In just a few brief moments, the colors changed to more brilliant pinks and purples and then orange and the sun rose right before our eyes and my lens.

I thought I heard a symphony playing as we watched the transition taking place and in the distance near the mainland we could hear crashing like cymbals and realized it was whales splashing..

and then the finale' and I remarked "how can you see this and not believe their is a God in heaven?" And He is an artist!

After all the rain and muck over the summer, it doesn't take many sights like this to make you forget how miserable it was. The fall and winter weather makes up for it and displays of beauty like this just make you hunger for more!

My mother is flying out here today, not a cloud in the sky this morning and no wind..what a blessing for her (and those of us praying for her safety) that she will have this gorgeous day to fly into and experience my Aleutian Adventure!

Going it alone

2010-09-08T06:35:00.000-07:00

Sometimes a girl has got to do what a girl has got to do! And, if that means climbing Battle Mountain alone..then so be it...

The hike up here isn't the wide four wheeler trail like on Buffalo Ridge, this path is more like a rabbit trail.

It was too nice and had been too long since I really stretched myself, so after work, I loaded up and came out here to get some much needed fresh air and peace and quiet.

After being in Cold Bay for 2 weeks and unable to hike around cause of the bears, the whirlwind week at work and on call, I desperately needed to get back into island mode, and enjoy the terrain.

The ground plants are well on their way to fall foliage, so colorful now, but in a few short weeks it will be shades of brown all over the place for another winter...

Fall isn't just in the air..it's all around me...just as colorful as Arkansas, only here, fall is at my feet!

After climbing, crawling, gasping for air and calf muscles screaming...I finally made it! The view from here makes you forget all the rest and calms the soul and spirit instantly.

Red Cove Beach in the distance..maybe I'll visit there next week..

What a spot to sit and just watch the world unfold in front of me.......all the hustle and bustle that's going on out there...I don't know any of it!!

Who needs the pie in the sky when I have the "eye in the sky on me?"

What a gorgeous view as the shadows of the clouds pass. It is breath-takingly beautiful up here, but my absolute favorite place to hike and spend quality time is over there....Buffalo Ridge...maybe I'll visit there the week after next!!

The best supper ever...served right on top Battle Mountain!!

Looking back on my accomplishment for the day, the sun rays just lit up the tundra floor like a big exclamation point and again I was sore, tired and hungry...but oh so satisfied!!

Ahhhhhh, another good day in my Aleutian Adventure!

TYG!!

More Wildlife from Cold Bay

2010-08-24T12:26:00.000-07:00

Gulls gather at the mouth of Russell Creek to catch the eggs from spawning salmon.

Where there are salmon there are bears and if you can't see them fishing or among the alders and walking down the road.................

they usually leave some pretty obvious sign they are in the neighborhood!!

There are a number of bird species here, a hunter or bird watchers paradise!

And then the occasional bear pops its head up in the tundra and you get to watch some frolicking and fishing live and up close!!

What an awesome sight to be able to watch this in person and safely from in side the van!!

Town Gathering

2010-08-21T11:25:00.001-07:00

Frosty Mountain peeking out of the clouds in Cold Bay...

When the ferry Tustemena, docks in Cold Bay, locals come on board and enjoy a hot meal. They have a nice galley type restaurant with hot sandwiches, hamburgers, soups and salads.

Most people drive out on the dock and park out there, but I chose to walk it and see the ocean birds and enjoy the fresh air. This was the longest I walked here cause the bears had the rest of the territory marked!

Then I was fortunate enough to catch the Hovercraft coming in for the day, too.

The Hovercraft docked and waiting to take passengers back to King Cove.

Bear Watching from the Bank

2010-08-20T16:57:00.000-07:00

Russell Creek is a place I come to every night to do some bear watching and just get some fresh air. I am never disappointed with finding either. Tonight I was fortunate enough to watch these two juvenile bears frolic farther down the creek and playfully head towards me and my awaiting lens. (From inside the van with windows barely cracked and the doors locked!)

They would stop and catch a fish or two and seemed to pick dead ones up and eat what was left of the bellies; the part of the salmon with the most fat for packing on that much needed winter weight.

I wish I could have caught this from the front, how cute it stood up to look to see where the other one was..making sure it wasn't trailing along too far behind.

They even stopped to wrestle around and even rubbed noses.....awwwwwww....I can hear you say it now!

And closer and closer they came...this creek is only about 25 feet wide and I was parked on the side of the road hanging out the barely cracked window...I could see their teeth ripping into the fish, I could see the claws on those huge paws and I could hear them grunt and snort as they passed right in front of me, never seeming to care I was there. I am sure they noticed, but I obviously didn't appear to be a threat to them...or a treat locked inside the van!

And off they go....

Not even 1/2 mile down the road, I caught this young bear sleeping on the side of a hill. What he and I did not see was the big bear coming his way down in the tundra...then the wind shifted...

and somebody flew up and looked over there shoulder...catching scent of the big one in the breeze and off it went up and over the hill..

And then the big guy wandered up to the napping spot and cleaned up what was left of a fish and then took off after the little one.

The little guy stopped once to look back and then disappeared over the hill with the big guy chasing him all the way...right down the middle of the road!

I followed them with my binoculars till they were out of sight. I figured I better head home now..how could one person be so fortunate to see all this in one day??

Only till the next time and we'll see what the day has to offer!!

Cold Bay...another chapter in my Aleutian Adventure

2010-08-16T12:57:00.000-07:00

They say a picture is worth a thousand words and hopefully that is what will happen here. I am soooo far behind in posting I am just going to let you look at some photos and hopefully they will tell the story until I can catch you up...

I am in Cold Bay working for 2 weeks and am sightseeing every chance I get, bear watching every night and just enjoying the beauty and hospitality of this quaint little town. Only 75 residents live here, well the 2 legged kind, many more 4 legged creaatures, both great and small!!

One of the largest bird/waterfowl sanctuaries in the nation.

Parkey squirrels run around in town and everywhere on the tundra.

Bear trails through the swamps are everywhere!

A vixen and her kits looking for rodents...and looking themselves pretty mangy!

Displayed in the lodge, this 10 ft 4 1\2 inch trophy came from here...his family gene pool scares me!

Within 2 hours of my arrival, I spotted this!!

Frosty Mountain never looses all the snow caps...bears hibernate up there during the winter.

Beautiful, calm morning. The flag is at half mast for the late Ted Stevens, killed in a plane crash last week near Dillingham.

My place to spend the night on my arrival..with 2 Dutchmen, Wibe and Tjeerd, fish buyers from Holland.

Cold Bay Lodge from the apartment I am staying in the next two weeks.

How to celebrate your birthday...Aleutian style!!

2010-07-30T22:12:00.000-07:00

First, I suggest you start your day off with a freshly picked bouquet of Aleutian wildflowers. Lupine, Arctic Paintbrush, Forget-me-nots, Cotton Grass and the ever popular Dandelion are local favorites. More importantly, they are conveniently located right behind the clinic so I can scoot out the back door and pick as many as I want.

Next, come rain or shine, gear up and head out side. Unfortunately I was not able to go to the neighboring island of Unga with another group today, I literally missed the boat. I waited for several hours for the call to meet at the Harbor and impatience got the best of me, so I headed out by myself and lo and behold they left 5 minutes after I took off! Drats, not a good thing, but not to worry, I still got in a good hike after all.

Then, it's nice to go visit some place deserted and familiar. So I chose Salmon Ranch.

I hung out on the beach and marveled at the unusual characters I stumbled across.

Mean looking jelly fish...that looked like a red wig floating in the water until I got closer and realized these were tentacles and this was probably not worth touching!

Then there was the benign looking clear jelly fish that looked safe.. from a distance!

A lone star fish just drifted with the waves and seemed content to go wherever he was washed.

And the odd bird that he is..the black oyster catcher, chirping and calling to the partner and warning me to stay away from his catch...

May have been cloudy and rainy, but the ridge still looks inviting even in the mist..

Then....to hang out with some other REAL characters, I headed off to the final night of Culture Camp.

Ms. Mary is the one who taught me to bead in the first place and I have just taken off with it. Earrings, pendants, necklaces and even medicine bags and amulets. I now have a hobby and still enjoy making things even a year after learning.

This is an example of a Bering Head dress that will be worn for the dancing at the Culture Camp potluck Saturday night.

Another young aspiring beader and her medicine pouch. All hand sewn and beaded even the necklace.

And my latest endeavor, beaded amulets..this was hard and time consuming, but I learned several new stitches and will continue to try more..I am so fortunate to have great teachers who are willing to share this skill and hobby...

Then the finale...I got to watch a harbor seal get cleaned and dressed...not a morsel gets wasted and I even asked for the toe nails..what I am going to do with them I do not know, but I think they'd make a great addition to my window sill museum I already have loaded with petrified wood, shells, sand dollars and so much more...

What a great day I had, if the first 50 were this good, I can't wait to see what the next 50 unfolds!!

Mountains, mountains and more mountains.....

2010-07-20T17:21:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted in quite a while, but get ready to view some great photos and latest update on my "adventures."

This time, my travels took me from Sand Point to Copper Mountain, Colorado. I was fortunate to attend the 35th Annual Nurse Practitioner Symposium and was even more fortunate it was located somewhere beautiful and WARM!!

As we left Sand Point and flew over the mainland it seemed strange to be able to view for a couple of reason. One, it was clear and sunny..and two, there was virtually no snow...the mountains were lush and green and the shoreline was clearly visible from way up here.

Of course as we passed over a few volcano peaks reaching up out of the clouds, they are still shrouded in snow and probably always will be...

My flight to Denver was a midnight to 7 am flight, so I slept (or tried to) and then took a shuttle 2 hours to Copper Mountain hidden amidst the Rockies.

Copper is a quaint sleepy village in the summer, but a bustling ski resort in the winter. A perfect getaway for biking fanatics and even more so for this hiking fanatic!

This was the view from my balcony I got to look at (whenever I was there), cause I was out exploring, hiking, and taking in as much warmth and sunshine I could.

The first few days I was here it was like a ghost town. No conference goers yet and I had these days to rest and enjoy myself before a 4 day sit! Yuck!! But, it had to be done..

My first ascent up Copper Mountain was to Hallelujah Loop and I know why it is named so. How could you not shout "hallelujah" from up here at the beauty and the awesomeness of the One who created it?

Self photo again, proving once again I was here and this old girl made up (and down) in one piece.

I was told they had not seen a bear up here in 3 years and I was definitely praying I wouldn't break that record. I had no spray, no gun, no radio..but I had found a good walking stick and made plenty of noise dragging it across rocks and tapping it as I walked. I'm sure the bears were laughing at me as they peered through the trees and thought, "yep, she's bear bait!"

When I stood here, I thought back to 4 years ago when I was riding horses in the Ozark National Forest of Arkansas and the horse stumbled and we both fell; I broke my leg, she just got a little shaken up. I had to get thrown back in the saddle and ride the horse out for an hour and a half till we got to the trailer. Anyway...I was reminded how fragile we get as we age and I sure made every step count and didn't take any chances up here since I was hiking alone and had no horse to carry me back down this hill!!

And of course I am hiking along and out of the scenery pops what?!?! The Bill Clinton Library??? For folks back in Arkansas they know what I am talking about..the Presidential Library in Little Rock looks like a silver mobile home sticking out over the bank of the Arkansas River. Well this isn't the library but it is the American Eagle ski lift, taking passengers up and down from Copper at 9,600 feet to 11,000 feet elevation. A 15 minute ride 80 feet in the air compared to a 3-4 hour hike while gasping for precious oxygen!!

I survived the hike and felt great..I'm glad I had this time to hike around before the conference otherwise I would've been in those rooms just day dreaming and wondering what it was like up there..now I really had something to day dream about, thinking, "now I KNOW what is up there and it was great!!"

I rested the next day, sort of, and took the free bus to Frisco. I got out at one end of town and walked to the other sight seeing and just soaking up the scenery and the grandeur of it all.

Rambling streams run through town and it was so clear. I'm sure cold as all get out too! Trout fishing is big up here, quite a difference from the salmon runs in Alaska..

And here I am, Captain Clark, as Dianna called me...contemplating my next hike..should I go left or right?? I definitely knew I had to go up first and then decide which way if any to turn..

This time I decided to go all the way...to the peak that is.....

Past myself, the other ski lifts....past the Ski Patrol Headquarters...

and past the last sign either warning you or welcoming you to the High Alpine view you were about to experience if you just didn't give out at this point.

So up I traveled to the very end of the trail... 12,227 feet elevation!! A far cry from our highest peak on the island which is only 1500 feet!!

I took a good break, kicked back, relaxed, let the feet rest and just soaked up the beauty and the vastness of this place...

I could have stayed up here all day and just looked and looked and looked some more..

Unfortunately I had to head back down..I had a 1 1/2 hour massage at 5 and I was not going to miss that. Boy was that going to make the hike worth it even more!!

Beautiful...what more can I say?

I stopped to peer over the rail of this neat structure on the edge of the lift zone..Wouldn't this be nice in your back yard...wouldn't this backyard be nice????

And then all things must come to an end, I must go home and I must have a window seat...looking at the patchwork of the landscape below and the different crop formations used by farmers..

Not crop circles..but a different way of planting and watering than I ever had seen before..

Reminds me of a quilt pattern I've seen, probably around my Mom's place!

And then the final mountain I passed as we took off from Seattle...Mt. Ranier appears in the distance as if it were just over there...it was...by probably a hundred miles to say the least..

What a grand time I had, what beautiful scenery and I am so thankful for digital cameras and the massive amount of pictures they store..

and oh yeah, the conference wasn't bad either!!

The Kells and Clark Expedition

2010-06-30T08:35:00.000-07:00

RED COVE LAKE
The Kells and Clark Expedition
Jun 26 2010
Sand Point, Popof Island. Alaska.

The hike began on a High hill,
A sense of a trail was felt.
We descend with disagreement on the best way down.Circling around the Hill and back onto ourselves- several times,
We end up placing our faith in a thin bison trail,
My first hoof prints - evidence they do exist.
Then there is bison poop and I know they are here.

Our purpose- however, is not to find the bison,
But to get to the Blow Hole down on the Beach of Red Cove.
Deeper down in the Alder filled Ravine glistens Red Cove Lake -
A magnificent belly of beauty.
I ask if it has trout - my Captain Clark says yes,
Kells is not sure.

We fight our way through face smacking branches,
Trip and stumble along our virgin trail,
Still close on the bison trail, which we tend veer off here and there-
And just when I think we might have fluked the right track there is
Sudden conference and we change direction.
This turns begin to fall into a into a familiar wrong decision pattern.
But we brave on with determination - through the near impenetrable thicket of alders.
A thicket so dense, that I frequently loose sight of Kells and Clark - though they are only fifteen feet away.
When I am lost for a second, I stop and listen for the rustle, then continue in that vague direction.
I cannot see anything but branches, leaves and a tangle of roots, my legs and boots.

That lovely lake scene now seems like a mirage.....
We falter, fall and brace out way through the dense death trap called brush!
'Bison Brush Track' is what is fast becoming our intended Beach & Blow Hole hike.
The magnificent clear sky gives me a sense of hope as dodge and duck branches whipping at my arms and face..

We trudge along and finally find the waters edge of the Lake.
We are on the opposite side to our destined shore.
I elect to wade along the shore, to avoid going back into the alders.
Knee and then thigh deep the cool water is invigorating.
Not far along my little wade, I am greeted with a creek cutting right through our path.

A primitive but creative log bridge system is assembled part way across the creek,
I bravely attempt to crawl along it with the intention to evaluate the connecting log some distance
And wedged into the edge.
However, the log wobble increases, and I finally fall into the creek.
I see from this vantage, of hip high water, that it is easier to wade across the stream..
With the water girth high, I drag the sleeping log off the shore and try to mend the two log bridge system -
It is a desperate effort, which fails to instill confidence in anybody to shimmy across.

Captain Laura has left this dodgy scene and like a true leader finds a thigh high spot to cross further down stream.
We answer her calls and follow the creek up, and then wade cross to join her among more alders and boot deep bog.

Now on the other side of the creek, and closer to our goal, we pause with fleeting contentment that at least we made it to the lake shore.
Rest causes reality to seep into our deluded minds and we surrender our mission for today,
Embracing our embers of energy our compass heads us back into the bush whacking madness.

Of course, we must not go the way we came.....We need to find the trail!
We boldly fall back into our blinded hike.
This time back up the other side of this hellish ravine.
Lost and laughing we weave through sections at a time and rest at clearings.

Some hours later we see the last stretch with a meek but purposeful path - no
Less inviting than the past lethal trails.
The ascension from the hellish ravine claims Captain Clark's I-Pod and jacket.

We don’t' dare go back!
Standing back on the hill - the Lake still beckons us and we nod farewell.

Dianna Fornasier

And then the view from the top..always a welcome sight and breathtaking experience....we made it...another adventure under our belt.

Maybe I'll head back to retrace our steps and retrieve the jacket and ipod, but today, the alders seem to have closed in and swallowed it once and for all!!

Then, to top it off..the midnight sunset was spectacular and seemed to be the icing on the day!!

Catching Oysters

2010-06-20T20:02:00.000-07:00

Not me personally, but this guy was...............

A strange bird to say the least...a black oyster catcher.

I saw him hobble and drag a wing as if wounded and another came in to chirp and encourage him to get to safety. He tried to hide in the rocks, but with a bright red-orange beak..he was a dead give-away. Then finally, he and the other took to flight and I realized they were probably luring me away from their catch or maybe even a nest.

Not to worry, I had bigger things on my mind. I was going to try my best to make it to Pirate's Cove today. Thai said I could walk the beach if the tide was out far enough and if I walked fast. It was quite a ways and I did not want to get caught out there if the tide came back in, he said there were sheer bluffs and no where to go.

The view down to Sand Dollar Beach. A little misty and cloudy, but a warm 44 degrees and very little wind. The tide was going to be out at 3:30 and I certainly have plenty of daylight these days, even if a little overcast.

Pirates Cove is the farthest cove to the left and the quickest way to get there is beach travel. I blew right past Sand Dollar beach, took a quick picture of the run-off from the ravine and headed on to the next cove.

Salmon Ranch was sleepy and quiet except for the oyster catchers. Saw a few otters at play near the rocks, but didn't bother trying to get a picture, too far away and I had too far to go...

Had to take a quick break and a few shots here....there may not be roses to stop and smell, but there is always nature and the beauty here. I found a beautiful sand dollar on the beach, only to put it in my pocket and crush it as I lay on the ground trying to take pictures of flowers..way to go sister, it's not like they are as plentiful as the rocks around here!!!

I wonder, if all roads lead to Rome, do all streams run into the sea? They do around here, with the run off from the mountains, the streams are plentiful and seem to be getting bigger and readying themselves for the annual salmon runs.

And then I rounded the next cove only to see how far I had to go...yikes...that is still about another hour hike over these ankle traps and my hip was starting to rebel. I tore a muscle in my right hip about 2 weeks ago and this was the first trip or exercise I had done since mending and something is telling me I am not mended yet.

So, I did some beach combing and found 4-5 great pieces of petrified wood, loaded a few in my back pack and left the rest. Maybe they will get washed back to sea and land somewhere else for someone else's pleasure.

I turned and headed back enjoying more of the view and really took my time as I ambled (hobbled) back the way I came. This time I did stop to smell the wild flowers and squish my sand dollar taking their pictures...bummer for the sand dollar, but look at the beautiful flowering plants creeping up all over the tundra...

The lupine are in different stages of bloom and even the bumble bees are out doing their jobs keeping them pollinated.

Early lupine bloom.

This woolly looking plant is called Woolly Lousewart....you can suck the nectar from the flowers and it is also used in salads as a garnish.

Moss berry blooms.

Early geraniums.

Not sure what this variety is. Thought at first Fireweed, but I was informed not....but the fireweed does grow in abundance in the tundra. The shoots are only inches high now, but will soon be 2-3 feet tall.

This is a Cardimine species also known as the Cuckoo flower. It is an herb that supposedly tastes like watercress.

I know there are many more flowering plants that will come out in due time, for a short time and grace the landscape with their beauty. All in God's timing!

Going...going....gone!

2010-06-04T20:10:00.000-07:00

What a great view and a nice calm day to visit the beach. I had the opportunity to be out here Monday and kayak with a friend through these piers and down to the city dock. The water was like glass and if only we had all day and more people to go with.
The fisherman are getting ready to head out Monday June 7th for open salmon season. The boats you see here and in the harbor will slowly disappear and slip into the water for the short summer.

The Peter Pan Pier is a loading area for nets and a place for boats to dock and do repairs or run into town for much needed supplies. It's also a great spot to come to and take good pictures of the island across the bay, Unga, and the surrounding mainland of the Alaska Peninsula.

There is still snow on the mainland and probably a little will hang around the tips all summer long. All the colors make such a sharp contrast to each other and compliment each other in a pleasant way.

We were lucky to run into a fisherman docked out here and he explained a little about the types of fishing that is done; set netters, gill netters, seiners, etc...I am a see it and believe it kind of person, so I will have to have someone take and me and show me...preferably on a beautiful day like this...not sure how much attention I would pay, I would be so captivated by the beauty around me...I'd really have to focus, focus, focus..

And focus we did on Thai (R) and Kels (L) as they prepared to kayak over to Unga after work Tuesday. Both boats belong to Kels, I got to use the inflatable Monday and I sure wish I had the longer more ocean ready sea kayak like Kels...hint to self!!

Thai is a master of everything..kayaking, mountain guiding, hiking, antarctic exploring, etc... and we are so fortunate he comes to work with us every so often. It's like a party with a bunch of kids and we are always outside looking for the next adventure. And we are never disappointed. He gave us both pointers about how to better handle kayaks in open waters like this and how to climb back in if it rolls and how to avoid orkas and gray whale pods and sea lions all kinds of helpful hints like that!! Now I was really paying attention!!!

We stood and watched as they headed over to Unga, envious but grateful they get to go, every stroke! We watched them till they were tiny specs in out camera lenses....going......

going........

gone......and there is Pavlof the volcanoe watching through the clouds......I felt they were safe in the shadow of this might icon. They made it back after midnight with many stories to tell about the trip, the exploration they did and the petrified rocks and treasures they found. And like a good couple of tourists, they took several home so they could add them to their rock collection from around the island. Kels held a smile on his face for days and I am sure when they think about what they did, that smile will automatically creep back into place.

What a beautiful view from the beach, but even better and more magnificent from out there looking up at the vast surrounding.

We stood up at the rock quarry to get a better view of the bay they were crossing and I took this picture of the harbor and all the boats here now..next week this will look like a ghost town.

It was such a breath taking and beautiful day; it made me smile when my new friend Teresa looked at this and said, "yeah, I could live here!"

You know what is better than that? I do!!

Red sky at night, sailors delight...red sky in the morning, sailors warning

2010-05-30T21:34:00.000-07:00

The only warning here today was "don't make your eyes bigger than your stomach!"

We held the annual Fisherman's potluck at Sand Point church tonight and had a great turnout. It's been the tradition here for years for the church to host an annual potluck to start the fishing season off with a feast and a prayer. It was nice to be able to help cook, set up and serve the fisherman in this way, cause no telling who might be bringing a fish to my door this summer.

Did I mention this is an island and all things function on "island time?" Even though we said it would start at 5pm, very few food items or people were here at 5 and some started to get a little ancy....

And then the food started coming out of the woodwork and so did the people...new folks, returning fisherman and locals came to enjoy this get together.

There was such a great mix of food, from the traditional turkey and ham to the local quisine of halibut, salmon and one I've grown to love....fish pie! You just gotta try this!! Espescially Ms. Mary's.....mmmmm good!!

We had more food than we knew what to do with and even though many people took leftovers home and we still had left overs left over......reminded me of the 5 loaves and 2 fishes....we are truly blessed and a well fed island!

Midnight Bonfire

2010-05-26T18:49:00.000-07:00

What do you get when you take a few friends to the beach at sunset, give them a great view, and some old wood pallets and a few matches? Well fire of course.....specifically a bonfire!

A group of us headed to the spit Saturday night to enjoy the warmer (upper 40's) weather, no wind and calmer water than we had seen in a very long time. We did a little beach combing, some picture taking and a lot of story telling...all true of course. We talked about what a great night it would be to have a bonfire, we walked some more and kept talking about how we needed to have a bonfire sometime.........SO, we decided on the spur of the moment, "let's do it!"

Around here the weather changes so frequently we have to seize the moment and do things without a lot of planning otherwise we miss the opportunity and miss out on some "would-be good times."

The view across to Unga Island and Sandy Beach was spectacular. It was about 10 pm when I took this shot; the sun still has a way to go before it gets real dark. It would have been perfect for kayaking or even a canoe on this tonight.

We gathered some old wood pallets that were laying around, dried sea grass and had our first ever bonfire on the Spit. Evan, Thai, Gulaid, myself, Shane and of course Cassanova enjoyed the fire and acted like kids turned loose to do something only grown ups should do. None of us ran around with sharp sticks in ours mouths and only one played in the fire, so we behaved rather well I think.

Pretty soon Susan and Ashley joined us..they probably saw the smoke and came to investigate...but we all gathered around the flames and just enjoyed the Aleutian night out.

The sun took it's time setting and gave us a spectacular show and the water remained so calm it was breathtaking.

Why is it fire draws people together and seems to mesmerize them? I don't know that I have the answer, I just know that I have a little slice of paradise in my back yard and I will do what I can to enjoy every opportunity that comes along. Even if it means lighting a bonfire at midnight.

Road trip destination North Pole.........really!!!!

2010-05-14T21:10:00.000-07:00

I'm in Fairbanks for training this week and it is so hectic and the days are so long, I haven't had much time to explore. Or if I have, nothing stays open after 5 pm, cause they are not on summer hours yet...bummer!

But, since we all know that Santa hangs out in the North Pole and it just happens to be a short 15 minute drive from where I am, off I headed.......didn't know where I was going but the road signs were not at all hard to follow!!!!

I didn't have directions, but there were other signs along the way..

Everything had a subtle little hint, like candy cane shaped signs...
candy cane painted markers......
and even the names of places like the Senior Center let me know I was getting close!!

Wallllaaaaaa!! I found it, Santa's place......now to just go inside and sneak a peak..
It smelled so good in here, one end smelled like pine, the other like cinnamon....and then, there it was.......HIS chair!!! But where is HE??

Drats, he is on summer hours, too!! I didn't dare sit in the chair...to me that would be like, well searching in your mom's purse when she wasn't looking!!!! Definitely taboo!!!

Even the reindeer were on summer hours..was this Comet and Cupid and Donner............or Blitzen?!?!?

Ahhhhhhh could this be Dasher or Dancer or Prancer or Vixen??????

After all, who could really tell? All I know is I was here, Santa wasn't, but there were surely some tell tail signs that told me he would be back........soon!!

Signs from God

2010-05-02T15:03:00.000-07:00

Enigma [uh-nig-muh], according to the Webster's dictionary, this word means a puzzling or inexplicable occurrence or situation......according to my life and experiences, I call these events "signs from God!"

Four years ago, I had a few signs that I ignored and wound up lost in the forest on horseback and eventually fell and broke my leg. Immediately those warning signs flashed before my eyes and I knew too well I should have paid closer attention to them.

Today, several occurrences took place and I was again reminded of the past and this old girl was not about to let history repeat itself at my expense.

I was geared up and ready to go to Red Cove Lake but had to make a quick run to the airport, drop off a vehicle, and load Evan up with me and a waiting Cassanova. I got to the airport first and waited and waited and waited for Evan, and finally a car drove up and out he popped.

His vehicle had run out of gas...sign #1. Then, when we went to find gas on a Sunday and no gas dock open, he couldn't find his keys or his wallet...sign #2.

Then, on the way to retrieve a potential gas can, Cassanova jumped out of the back of the truck and I either hit him or ran over his foot.....BIG SIGN #3!!!!

I immediately opted to return home, have a cookie and put my feet up where I knew I would be safe, and that is exactly what we did.
Cassanova was shocked and limped around a little and will probably be sore for a while, but thankfully nothing was broken....well maybe only his desire to jump from a moving vehicle!

I know these two were disappointed, but me....I may be slow....but I parked my boots and trekking pole by the door and waited for another day when the signs will be right and then we''ll head out and try it again!!

Pecking Order

2010-04-27T20:01:00.000-07:00

Just a friendly reminder that out here, as beautiful as they are, Eagles RULE! And they are scavengers, defenders, and just plain bad to the bone...especially buffalo bones!

My neighbor, unknowlingly, left these buffalo ribs outside to take to the trash later and before he knew it, the eagles had moved in for the ravage and the game was on.

I tried to take Cassanova home, but this guy was blocking the steps and I was not about to come near him or his prize. Cassanova got brave and tried to get a whiff and wound up getting hissed at and he, too, quickly retreated.

The young eagles gathered and waited until the mature guy had his fill and after he headed back up to our roof to let this digest, they all moved in. Within one hour, they had these bones picked cleaner than an after-Thanksgiving Day turkey and took off with bones in flight.

Eagles are as common around here as, well, ravens. Both are sacred birds and are highly esteemed and honored. I personally have a good dose of fear for them and keep my distance. When I am out walking around, it is never unusual to see one watching me from a light pole.

They seem to always be giving me the "stinky eye" and seem to have a mad expression on their faces.
Larger than life, they are as abundant as the sparrow is down south. These giants come and go around here with the different fishing seasons and never lack for a meal...whether they catch it themselves or find it laying around unguarded...then it's free game!! And the pecking begins.................

How to Clean a Beach

2010-04-21T18:27:00.000-07:00

First: You need to have a willing and able, FUN group of people to volunteer, dress warm, and head outside to tackle the job. They must have a sense of humor and wear waterproof boots.............thermal underwear are highly recommended, but optional.

Second: You need to gather for the formalities, listen to instructions about what trash goes in what colored bag, sign the waiver and promise not to sue anyone should you get injured or washed away by a tsunami.....hey wait....I just lost a few volunteers...scratch that part about the tsunami...........

Third: Head out and meet at your favorite beach. We chose Sanak first. It is best to go when the tide is going out or at it's lowest and then start walking......face down.....looking for debris...

Reminder: Make sure you look up every once in a while to see just where God has placed you and say thanks for the beautiful scenery....

Fourth: Debris comes in all shapes and sizes. There is plastic, aluminum, rope, netting, and then the most popular beach items around here are metal...HUGE, HEAVY pieces of iron, steel, chains,

and of course the occasional Texas Long Horn cow skull......
Don't all beaches have these?
Fifth: Stay in close groups called the "buddy system" so no one gets separated and lost, or swept out to sea...plus it is much more fun to visit while you work and share the incredible finds and treasures........

like buffalo skulls!! Go figure!

Sixth: After a couple of hours of stooping and picking and bagging and hauling, you must be willing to rest, eat lunch out of the back of an old ambulance/hearse and not bat an eye at this concept.

Seven: Next, if your volunteers are still happy and warm and partially fed, it is time to head to another beach...this one is called Russian Town.

Eight: By now, you should be able to identify all major forms of debris and try not to lift anything more than 30 pounds or face the consequences of a hernia or pulled muscle.

Right, Susie Shoe?

And lastly: Never, never take for granted the view from anywhere around here and always give thanks for every drop of sunshine we get.

It may be another year before the beach gets cleaned up again, but I for one will definietly remember the rules and be more than willing to go again next time! Thermals and all......

Up and Over the Edge...Danger Point

2010-04-19T21:53:00.000-07:00

I left Arkansas Friday where it was 88 degrees, only to arrive back on the island Saturday with a high of 37 and spitting snow. So, on Sunday when the sky cleared and the temp soared to 39, I gathered the neighbor and Cassanova and headed to the beach.

The tide was out and we combed the beach for treasures and just let the fresh ocean air fill our lungs. How invigorating standing here and the crispness, freshness and sheer beauty still amazes me.

We just ambled along and soon we were climbing over these rocks and getting farther out on the point where the wind was really working us over. It was probably gusting up to 40 mph, and I was even finding it hard to stand up on these slick rocks. Out here, this is the only time in my life I can say I felt skinny...standing here, I could actually say the wind almost blew me over!

Before I knew it, Evan was heading up in a zig zag pattern and like a blind goat I followed him....

right up the face of a bluff and over the edge to come to rest on the top of Danger Point!!

Of course I passed on getting the camera out on the way up, my greatest desire was to take one step at a time and DO NOT look down...this was also one time I was NOT going to look back to see how far I had come.

Evan is 21, I am 49 and 9/12ths and I told him when he turned 50 I wanted him to take a hike like this and think of me when he did it!

Cassanova loved it, found a buffalo bone to chew on and we just sat and marveled at how beatuiful this place is.

I can tell the weather is changing, the wind is not cold, and there seems to be a warm sense even to the ground. Plenty of snow left on Buffalo Ridge, but it, too, will soon be gone..

I am looking forward to the summer when I can take off for the ridge and enjoy the splendor and green I know is coming.

Who know's, if Evan and Cassanova tag along, I wonder what we will find up and over that ridge??

A trip home

2010-04-18T08:49:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven't posted in a while, I made a long awaited trip back to Arkansas for a 2 week visit and to get warm. I can't remember having 2 weeks off for anything except maternity leave, so this was long overdue if I should say!

I visited friends, ate, cleaned, ate, hiked a little and ate some more. Not a thing had salmon in it (thankfully) and I think I consumed half a cow in the form of steaks, burgers, ribs, etc..

I got to spend a great day with my kids and their significant others hiking beautiful Petit Jean Mountain and going to the famous Cedar Falls waterfall.

What a gorgeous day, low 80's light breeze, no gale force winds and LOT'S of trees for me to enjoy.

We had a blast and I think I could've walked all day. Hiking the mountains on the island keeps me in shape and I could've easily out walked these children of mine.

My little boy got tired and even had to be carried part of the way......

His girlfriend must really like him..........I don't even like him that much to offer such a ride!!

Just kidding, I do too, I love that twerp!!

My daughter and the "pooch" faired much better and neither one had to be carried, not even for a minute...

What a great day with the kids, friends and Charlie aka the Queen..

If the island had the trees and was about 20 degrees warmer, it would be hard to pry myself away.......................but since it doesn't, I can always go home and soak up the beautiful state of Arkansas and all it has to offer!! Thank goodness for the gorgeous weather and NO TICKS this trip!!

Eagles advantage

2010-03-28T14:34:00.000-07:00

Another gorgeous day and I took two new comers out for a welcome hike.
Dr. Ken Lim, the dentist, Evan, my neighbor for the summer, my faithful 4-legged friend Cassanova, and I headed to Salmon Ranch on a cool, windless day.

As we neared Salmon Ranch, the eagles on the far cliff kept a good eye on us and seemed to be sunning themselves and enjoying the surf. There was a lone seal in the water and kept escaping our cameras, but was as much fun to watch just the same.

The eagles are in abundance now, with Trident off loading fish, they are scavenging the left overs and are getting their fill without having to work too hard for it. Unless of course they are fighting with the ravens for a good morsel, then the fight is on.

The young eagles are born brown and the older they get, the more mottled they become. They do not fully get the white feathers until they are about 4 or 5, then they are officially bald.

They let us get pretty close before they take to flight. Even Cassanova keeps his distance and knows to respect them and their turf.

As soon as salmon season is over in late August, they will dwindle down and disappear, probably nesting and having the young ones. Then they reappear again about January when it's nice and cold. It is very common to come home and see one perched on the apartment roof, or walk under a light pole where they watch with that ever angry looking stare.

I crawled under a few ice falls to get a shot of the beach from here. It was warm in the sun and the water was just gushing underneath these into falls, only to freeze again at night fall.

The tide was going out and I decided to take them back along the beach instead of the trails. This proved to be a workout crawling over rocks, scooting over ice and snow on our bottoms, and just hanging out like a bunch of kids. It was so nice out, we did anything we could to stay out and soak up the sun, the warmth and the fresh air.

This is the elephant rock, I can't see an elephant in it, but when in Rome...do as the Romans...

so I too, call it the elephant rock.

We had a great day out in the sun and enjoyed the terrain as it is again changing. I've been here a year and it is exciting to see the seasons change and to tell the newbies about the summer and what is to come. I'm always eager to take someone new out and show them how beautiful this place truly is. It is even more exciting to wait in anticipation for what adventures I will be taking next, starting my second year in the Aleutian Adventure of a lifetime!!

My One Year Walk

2010-03-21T08:49:00.000-07:00

On my one year anniversary of being in Alaska, I was graced with a beautiful day and took Cassanova and myself on a walk to Sand Dollar beach. The air is still crisp and there was plenty of snow around to make it even more scenic. What I didn't expect however, was how difficult it made it on the trails. It looks like just a light covering of snow, but remember, these alder bushes are 4-5 feet tall, so when I traipsed through the trail in these bushes, I sunk up to my calves and knees at times and every step was a question whether I wanted to continue or retreat. But, always looking for a challenge, I forged ahead and at one point sunk to my hip which made it real difficult to pull a leg out and stand to take the next step. It looked pretty ridiculous and I wasn't making much progress. So, since I didn't have snow shoes, I did the next best thing that would help me distribute my weight over the snow......I crawled, literally on my hands and knees over the snow till I could get to more firm ground.

Cassanova thought it was funny and tried playing around with me, I guess he thought I was getting down on his level. He was so light he just bounded over the top and occasionally I had to laugh when even he sunk and looked bewildered like "where did the ground just go?"

But, we made it and of course the view never disappoints from any angle. The tide wasn't even out but still the water level changes with the seasons and allowed us to walk, explore and find all kinds of neat discoveries.

Like this unusual runoff in the shape of a heart. I always think things like this are signs from Above that remind me Who actually made them and they are there for my pleasure.

There were frozen waterfalls from the bluffs above and there was a blue tint to them like the glaciers we saw in Seward last summer. What a contrast against that Aleutian Blue sky!!

And then, the icing on the cake!!! I chose to take a different route home and I was so glad I did. I spotted 2 herds of Buffalo grazing on the hill above me and I was safe this time, to get out my camera and shoot as many pics as I wanted.

I'm not sure why they were down so low and what they were grazing on, but I knew Who sent them and I was enjoying every minute of them I could. Cassanova was never even aware of them, there was no wind to carry any one's scent at all.

What a beautiful way to celebrate my one year in Alaska and an even better way to start off my next year in my Aleutian Adventure.

The Year in Review

2010-03-15T00:00:00.000-07:00

It all started with a broken heart and a prayer to find direction in my life. And hence, the dream was born and took off literally "on wings and prayers." I shared my dream and asked my church for prayers and boy did they pray for me. God moved in such a way I didn't have time to blink or rethink what I was doing and off to Alaska I headed.

March 15th is my one year anniversary of living in Alaska. Hard to believe isn't it? I thought I would take you on a journey down memory lane and relive some of my favorite memories and photos of the year.
Deb, Wes and Chelsea took me to the airport in Little Rock and after hugs and kisses and a few tears, I turned and walked through the security gate into the adventure of a lifetime. I arrived in Chicago and had a 3 hour layover and kept looking at this sign and pinching myself, asking "is this for real?" The answer was yes of course, I wasn't nervous, I was so excited I didn't mind the 3 hour wait and looked forward to every step of this journey.

I spent a week in Anchorage with orientation and then on the first day of spring, I flew to my new home for the next ?? years. This was my first view of Sand Point and as we approached even closer, out to my left a bald eagle was circling and I took this as a very good and warm welcome.

And here is my marker and proof..I have arrived...now what??

My belongings were here, I unpacked and in no time at all, I was all bundled up and walking around my new neighborhood. The weather changed on me during this 2.8 mile loop from clear and cold, to windy, snowing and colder.

Just for fun I shot this self shot (my Grandma's favorite picture of me) and there the tradition began. Pictures of myself to prove I am really here, not for your sakes, but for mine. "O Lord, help thou my unbelief."

Easter morning as is our tradition back home, we have sunrise service. So here, I wrapped up and headed out to have my own sunrise service. I shot this view off my front porch and headed out to the bluff.

This was the only shot that turned out!! My batteries died on my camera and I was disappointed until I was gently reminded I was out here to worship the "Son who rose" not the sun rise. Amen, point taken again, Lord!

Chelsea came out in June and we enjoyed a fun filled week in Anchorage and touring around. My favorite time was the white water raft trip down a river in Denali. That's Chelsea (left front) screaming like a girl, me next to her laughing as usual and our friends for the day. What a blast!!

Flat top was beautiful and we enjoyed walking around enjoying the scenery and the gorgeous day. How was I to know this was the warmest I was going to get until August?

The summer was beautiful, the wild flowers in such abundance and the days were so long. The sun didn't set until 1-2 am and I even had to put towels under my door to keep the sunlight out of my room at night.

I explored every beach within walking distance and was on the hunt for the buffalo every time I went out. One of my favorite places to visit was Salmon Ranch. Easy access and a view that never failed.

And Pavlof and the Sister volcanoes were ever watching me on my adventures. When I can see the tips of either one peaking out over Unga, I know it is going to be a good day and I pack up and head out.

I made it to the other side of the island several times and even found those buffalo on two occasions. One from afar and the other from way to close and this was when the Arkansas Razorbacks left their mark on the island.

Red Cove took on a different look in the sunset late in October. The snow on the peaks tells me winter is coming and bringing new challenges with it. The wind, the snow, the fatal plane crash off our runway later in January.

New Year's morning and the setting of the full Blue Moon. What a great way to start the day, end the old year and begin a new one all in the same outing.

Since new Year's day, we have had some great hiking weather in between more snow than anyone has seen in 5 years and the bitter cold of the gale force Aleutian winds. Also some of the most spectacular sunsets and full moons I've seen in a long time.

A trip to Anchorage in February and the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, NO wind and beautiful trails here recharged me to come back to the island for the rest of the winter.

Even though the snow is still hanging around, the icicles are beginning to melt from the roofs and the skies are a most brilliant blue, reminding us spring is coming. Yeah, the winter was harsh here as it was everywhere I imagine. But, spring always comes, seasons change, people change, time heals and God restores.

What a remarkable year I've had. What did I do to deserve such blessing and favor? I am an ordinary girl living out a most extraordinary life. All because of a dream and the desire to just get out there and do it....I miss my friends and family, but they like you are with me every step of this journey and I am waiting to see where this Aleutian adventure takes me next.

Are you still with me?

Alaska's Deadliest Drip

2010-03-11T19:48:00.000-08:00

A glittering reminder of just how fierce the snow storm and winds can be around here and what it leaves behind.

Jagged sparkling icicles hang from the clinic roof and catch the brilliant sunlight in the clear blue sky. Luckily the icicles are not over the walk, lest they should break loose and fall, causing damage to anything below.

Don't let the blue skies deceive you, for as brilliant as they are, the air is still quite bitter. It got up to 12 degrees today and fair winds only about 10-12 knots. It was 9 degrees when I walked to work all bundled in carhart bibs, down parka, gloves and today I even used a scarf over my face. I didn't feel cold from the neck down, just my cheeks and face burned like I was being sand blasted with the bitter cold wind.
The winds drive the snow and rain sideways at times, leaving these interesting and curved daggers for our viewing pleasure. They look like the teeth of some prehistoric animal lurking over the edge of the clinic roof, waiting to devour anyone in their path.

The snow is still brilliant white and 2 feet deep in places. The drive is finally starting to melt in places, but it is a pretty slick sheet of solid ice that makes even stepping out of a vehicle dangerous let alone walking on it.

The trail out in back of the clinic has a lone set of tracks on it, not many people at all are out in this bitter cold. It sure is beautiful and I get out as much as possible despite the cold to walk and take pictures and just breathe the freshest crispest air I've ever felt.

The mainland has a lot of snow up high, but still not much close to the shore line, probably not as much as we have right now. Funny, there is only about 3 miles between this island and the mainland and how different the terrain and snow accumulation.

The peaks have a good frosting on them and the Aleutian Blue of the water is stunning as usual. I never am far from a beautiful view and the sunset tonight surely didn't disappoint either.

It was close to 7:30 pm when I took this shot, the days are getting longer and the sunsets seem to be more spectacualr in the winter months.

Hard to believe I have been here almost a year. March 15th will be my one year mark and I am still as excited today as I was a year ago packing to come out here.

My how time flies, children grow, the landscape changes with the seasons, but I am still in awe of the timeless beauty left behind and the ageless Creator who made it all.

Let's Play Ball!!!

2010-03-04T23:08:00.000-08:00

Sand Point hosted a regional basketball tournament this week and I had the privilege of attending as the medical personnel on call if needed and an avid supporter. There aren't enough kids in the school to warrant girls and boys teams, so they have co-ed basketball. The girls had to be pretty tough to be able to play out there amongst the guys and the guys treated them just like any other player. Sometimes pretty rough .

The teams have to raise their own money to get here and of course all had to charter planes to fly in. They are camping out at the school and I'm sure it is a blast for them to be able to travel and see other parts of the state they otherwise may have never seen before.
Unfortunately Sand Point was out of the single elimination tournament Thursday, when they were beat by New Halen. There was a great turnout for the games even in the middle of the day.

Of course the fisherman were in good attendance since the weather is at it's peak of nastiness this week. Cod season was supposed to open Sunday, but Saturday night the winds hit gale force and the snow has been blowing all week. Yesterday the temperature started out at 14 degrees on my way to work and by 5 pm it had climbed to 37 degrees, we had a blizzard, snow/rain showers and we got another 2-4 inches of snow on top of the 4-6 inches on the ground. The roads are solid ice and this is stay home and bead weather for me.

The games were fun to watch and I hooted and hollered like any faithful fan. I only had one emergency to attend to and the kid was quickly cleared to get back in the game.

King Cove played New Stuyahok (don't even ask how to pronounce that one) and lost the battle. There weren't as many supporters that hung around for this game, and even my attention started to wander after a while.......not only was I people watching, but something else caught my eyes.........the new style of players shoes...

I remember playing ball in grade school and having different shoes cause no one cared, then high school came and everyone had regulation converse shoes and everyone matched. Of course I think tube socks and SHORT shorts were very common, too.

Then the style changed and the shorts thankfully got longer, the socks got shorter and now a I think anything goes!!

I saw everything from plain white, to pink and white, black and white, plain black, purple and
blue and these that did everything but blink when they walked.............

And then my personal favorites....................

It wasn't just the shoes, it was the entire ensemble....mismatched socks, shiney plastic looking yellow shoes...and the incredible nerve it took for a guy to actually wear them out in public!!

The players just played side by side in the shiney shoes and funky socks and they didn't seem to notice anything other than the ref's calls.

As I watched, I was reminded of cartoon characters and coloring books and vivid colors and found myself daydreaming about the good old days. My how time changes, clothes change, shoes change......but basketball remains basketball and even here on this island everyone forgets the change and the bad weather and the surrounding ocean just for a few hours life goes on in the Aleutinas just like everywhere else....

Live, Love, and Laugh....out loud!!

2010-02-25T20:39:00.000-08:00

The "girls" got together tonight to party one more time with Kelli before she leaves the island. Our idea of party however might not be the same as yours, but we like to get together, laugh, eat, laugh, tell stories, laugh, and laugh some more.....

From left to right: Mini Aleut, Jessica, Razorback (that would be me), Little Mini, Kelli, and The Big Aleut (Kelli gave us all nicknames and they fit each one of us...and stuck.)

Kelli brought lots of smiles, laughter and spark to our group and of course her signature...scarves....

So naturally, when we met for dinner tonight, we all donned a colorful scarf in honor of her and did our fair share of laughing, smiling and eating, of course.

Kelli and Mary posing in their lovely scarves and Kelli in the earrings I made for her...lovely aren't they....I meant the girls....and their smiles.

Oops, Jessica blinked, but she and Cathy hammed it up and had a ton of fun, too.

Here's Mary and Mami saying cheese and taking a break from laughing to enjoy a pose.

A little blurry, but we had one last pose together before we left Denice and Wendy to clean up at the Harbor Cafe and enjoy some peace and MUCH quiet after we left...

Kelli, Oliver and Lulu...you weren't here long, but it didn't take long for you to all find a place in our hearts and in our memory forever. Zoe is not forgotten, for without her, how would Kelli and I have gotten this mis-matched, wacky, fun friendship together? When I visit her spot, I will remember all of it with bitter-sweet tears.

Oliver, I love you and will miss you so much. You have Lulu now to take care of and I wish you much love, laughter and happiness!!

Lot's of love to you all,

"Razorback"

Leaving Anchorage

2010-02-16T13:17:00.000-08:00

Well, my time here in Anchorage is drawing to a close and I am going home tomorrow. I have enjoyed the time off, the training and especially the terrain and trails in my backyard at the suite. I did bush shopping and shipped myself more necessities like hazelnut creamer, cooking supplies, and of course new shoes....it was so nice to be able to be fitted and find the shoe that actually fits and works for me....yea right, any excuse will work for me and my shoe fetish.....

The trail behind the suite was just beautiful. Packed snow and cool crisp air made this a haven and a most enjoyable walk. Even though I ran it once, the uneven snow and occasional slick spot made for a treacherous run, so I stuck to walking out here.

The walk along the creek was so peaceful and I wonder if the people living on the borders here realize what a jewel they have in their back yard.

As I peered into the trees, I could just imagine a moose watching me back and noticed my steps picked up in speed just a bit. It was kinda spine tingling thinking there could be animals out here bigger than a squirrel eyeing me without my suspicion.

Everyone had a dog or two and this seemed to be just one spot they could come and enjoy the partly sunny day. It was good to see so many out despite cold weather, even some little dogs were bundled up and wearing booties.

What a remarkable winter wonderland as I headed to a less traveled area; the snow packed limbs hung over the trail and seemed to tuck me in in a snow covered hug. The solitude was refreshing and I couldn't hear or smell traffic or the hubbub just on the other side of the tree line.

As I hit the end of the trail, I veered right and just like a pedestrian on a busy sidewalk, I looked left to watch for traffic and ......whoa nelly!!!!!!!! did I see some traffic or a skier?...was that a dog?..... a squirrel? No way.....it was a moose!!!

A young calf that had been spotted a few days ago in the field got even closer on the trail and took a break from chewing to let me take it's photo. I really picked up my pace here and every so often, looked back, not to see how far I had come, but how much distance was I putting between me and the little guy that was bigger than my car rental........Bullwinkle!!

Anchorage in Winter

2010-02-14T08:07:00.000-08:00

ATLS, no it's not a new translation of the Bible, but it has been the only book I've touched for the past few weeks. I am in Anchorage this week for training and this is the class I've waited a year to take and prepare for.

As a midlevel out in the bush of Alaska, we are the first source and most of the time the highest source of health care until we can get people into Anchorage for further care. So this class prepared and taught us how to do a rapid, systematic examination and skill set to take care of all sorts of trauma patients. MVA's, collapsed lungs, inadequate airways, burns, casualties, etc..

Probably one of the most intimidating classes I've been to. There were 4 midlevels (2 nurse practitioners and 2 physician assistants) and 12 physicians...surgeons, anesthesiologists, internists, emergency physicians, and family practice.

I have to say, I was treated as well as any of the physicians and was taught the same material with the same goal in mind.....do no harm and prevent secondary trauma. I PASSED the skills and exam, now I pray this all comes back when I am faced with my real life exam.

This class was 12 hour days and by the time we got out at night, I was catching a glimpse of the sunset and wished I could've taken better pictures. But, today I have the freedom to roam and explore and I will after attending church downtown.

The roads here are snow packed and the sidewalks are buried under 2 feet or more of snow. The trees are beautiful and even though the sun isn't out, I think it is gorgeous. Only about mid-20's and bitter cold, no wind though.

I'm staying near a trail around a frozen lake and have been on the trail once so far. There are dog walkers, cross-country skiers, runners, walkers and even a moose calf. I didn't even see the calf when I ran past it and I was kindly informed by another woman it isn't safe to run with head phones on, cause you can usually here them walking or snorting and you need to stay out of their way.....thank you, that is one warning I do appreciate!

Hopefully I will be able to get out and do some sightseeing and photo taking before I head back to the island on Wednesday. I always love to come to Anchorage and enjoy the different seasons, but even in the ice and snow packed roads, the road rage is what usually sends me back to the island thankful the speed limit isn't over 35 there!

Bead-dazzling!

2010-02-06T22:09:00.000-08:00

A lot of people ask me what else I do up here besides hike and take pictures......well, I had to hike to the jewelry box and take a few pictures to explain how I spend some of my spare time. I say some because with being on call so often, there isn't a lot of down time and if the weather is nice, I'm choosing outside.

Besides all the outdoors activities, climbing trees and chasing buffalo, I do like some girly things, too. I like to cook and am pretty good at it if I do say so myself and I rarely if ever have complaints from anyone else.

And I like jewelry..........especially earrings.. Anyone who knows me will testify to that fact and they have probably given me some as a gift in the past. I also like to make sure it all matches...I choose my earrings first and then fashion my wardrobe around the same colors. My style changes everyday with whatever outfit I am wearing and now, I've learned to make my own!!

The light blue in front were the first pair I made and I was so happy they actually looked like earrings, I tried other patterns and have absolutely gotten hooked.

I'm even branching out and making pendants (center phoenix) and (below) more complex designs...

I have sold quite a few sets at the local bazaars, to coworkers and I make special order items like the pendant below for a friends granddaughter....

I made 11 pair before I went home for Thanksgiving and I think all my nieces now have a pair and my sisters and mother do to. My daughter has a few pair and of course her friends are wearing them as well. I've given more away than anything and I do it for fun and the satisfaction of seeing others enjoy them, too.

I even made a camouflage colored pair that I was going to wear if I go hunting........but my mother liked them so now she wears them. Oh well, I can always make another pair and I probably will!!

Dog Gone!

2010-01-31T09:09:00.001-08:00

Another gorgeous January day and I am off for the afternoon. So, I borrowed my trusty companion, Cassanova and headed to Red Cove Beach for some fun in the sun. It was 36 and no wind and a great day for hiking. The good thing about the hike to Red Cove Beach is it is a gradual decline all the way. The tundra was frozen and I tromped through about 4 inches of crunchy snow through the trails. The marsh was frozen and I could've used a pair of ice grips on my boots, but I made it just the same.

It took me about 40 minutes to get to the edge of the partially frozen lake and here is where Cassanova and I parted company. Not on purpose and not at all planned either. One second I shot this picture of him and the next thing I knew, the dog was gone! No where to be found. I whistled and called over and over and the dog just seemed to vanish. I searched the shoreline as I headed to the beach hoping he somehow made it to the other side. NO DOG!

I got a little nervous and wondered if he had fallen through the ice or in a hole. But surely he would have yelped or barked.....but I heard nothing but the ice creaking and groaning on the lake and the water below letting out this gurgling noise like a large rumbling stomach. I prayed the lake hadn't taken him. I would've been mortified!

I decided to keep going and made my way along the edge of the lake. It looked like it had come up about 10 feet and the edge had about 18 inches of thick ice and snow making a sidewalk and I hoped it was solid through and through.

Usually I can walk this easily, but today a trekking pole really helped test the ice to see if it was stable and that grumbling noise I kept hearing coming from under the ice was starting to give me the creeps. It wasn't at all a pleasant sound, it sounded eery and angry that I was there putting weight on it.

The winds must have been fierce even in this valley during the storms as it drove the lake water up and froze along these little fragile reeds of grass. It made for a beautiful ice sculpture anyway.

Instead of the self photo, how about the self shadow? While looking back and calling and whistling for the dog, I accidentally caught my shadow and thought it made for a neat shot on the frozen lake.

This is the mouth to the creek that normally runs off into the ocean. But with the storms beating and crashing against the shore, it drove these rocks up into the creek, blocking and damming it up and therefore causing the lake level to rise. They will have to blast this out in the spring to get the creek open and running and ready for the next salmon season.

I hung around on the beach trying to enjoy the surf and just listen to the waves. I said more prayers I would find Cassanova or he returned home after getting separated from me. It just didn't feel good or as relaxing today. The trip around the lake was hard and treacherous in places, my feet were soaked from the snow accumulation on my boots (I had spare socks!) and I was upset the dog was missing. I did not want to tell his owner I lost the dog.

As I headed back around the lake, the sky just kept getting cloudier, the sun disappeared and that noise from the lake was really starting to make me walk faster. I got to near the place Cassanova had disappeared and I whistled one more time and lo and behold he was there! He stepped out of the alders where I think he had layed down and was just waiting for me.

Good dog! Other than shaking a little from the cold and a small cut on his pad, he was in fine shape and as happy to see me as I was to see him. I fed him dog biscuits and snacks I had brought for him and wished I had smoked salmon to give him at this point.

We made our way back to the top and was soon picked up by my 4 legged friend Oliver and his mom Kelli. I returned Cassanova to his owner and thought why mention anything about nothing at this point! So, I kissed the dog good bye and headed to my own home to lay up for a while and give my own two dogs (feet) a warm, well deserved rest!

Crazy about those full moons

2010-01-28T22:40:00.000-08:00

After the week we've had, I desperately needed to get out and get some fresh air and solitude near the mountains and the beach. No better place to head than the trail along the bluffs and no better time than the rising of the full moon.

I love full moons, and here I can't seem to get enough of them. Maybe cause the weather is so unpredictable and I am not guaranteed I'll get to see it every month. And maybe cause I am a little crazy since I decided to take the walk in the moonlight and just enjoy this time out. So, I had a friend dump me out at the end of New Dump Road and I walked the bluff back home.

We have a little snow hanging around and the temps have stayed in the low 30's. Not much has melted and it made for easy walking since the tundra is still frozen and not a slick mess. Buffalo Ridge in the background has a good covering of snow and as soon as Buffalo season is over, I'm gearing up (with a dog and radio this time) to visit it again.
The days are getting longer and even though the sun was setting, I still had plenty of light to make my way along the trail without headlamp or flashlight.

The colors are beautiful in shades of brown, rust, white and of course the Aleutian Blue of the water and the sky, especially at dusk.

Half of these shots are sheer luck they turn out. My glasses are transition lenses and turn dark in the least amount of light. So, even with the sun setting they get inky brown and I can't see what I am aiming at. The view box on the digital camera is so dark, the majority of time, I just point the camera and take the picture, hoping for the best. That's another reason I take so many pictures, surely one out of 10 will turn out, and sometimes I get real lucky.

There wasn't much wind and it was rather warm, around 36 degrees, so I felt like hanging out as long as I could. Now is when I wish I had a deck and a chiminea to sit outside with a fire and just watch the moon work it's magic on the tide and my head.

Funny, for as long as I've been in the medical field (over 31 years), we learned to dread full moons cause of all the crazy things that happen in ER's or the hospitals. Well, I've never feared them, only revered them. If the full moon affects the tides like it does, why wouldn't we think the full moon would affect us as much? After all, our bodies are 80% water....some of us more than that at times!

As usual, I love to look back at how far I've come when I am out walking and when I looked back tonight, I was reminded of one of my favorite books I read to my kids when they were little..."Harold and the Purple Crayon." Harold had many adventures like I have had so far and when I saw the moon behind me, I was reminded of the repeating line in this favorite children's book.................

"and the moon went with him"

Tragedy Hits Sand Point

2010-01-23T08:47:00.000-08:00

Tragedy hit the island yesterday. Shortly before midnight, a cargo plane crashed just seconds after taking off the runway and two crew members on board are still missing. We had search and rescue teams out in the water and all along the beaches looking for any sign of hope or life.

The Coast Guard responded to the call and had a helicopter and a C130 coordinating the search effort and at 1130 am, they officially called off the search. They presume the crew members did not survive. My heart aches for their families and friends here on the island as both were known well by the community.

The gale force winds were fierce and the waves were boiling the last few days. The temperature was down to 4 degrees and no walking anywhere. It was hard to stand up straight and even making a trip to the post office is dangerous and maybe not so necessary right now.

But, the sun continues to come up and display an array of colors in the cloudless sky. Then, by nightfall, every star in the sky is out and the landscape is still and beautiful all over. Despite the tragedy that befell here, we are still reminded of how beautiful, rugged and ferocious this place can be.

Our Creator knows what we are going through and has provided us today, a cloudless sky and no winds. It is still a beautiful Aleutian day.

Cassanova and Me

2010-01-14T10:32:00.000-08:00

My neighbor has a new member in his house, Cassanova. Not quite what one would expect with that name, but this gangly grey hound-husky mix was my companion yesterday as I headed out on a GORGEOUS January day. I decided to hike the backside of Battle Mountain and wear out my own backside and Cassanova's, too. And that is exactly what we did.

The temp was only supposed to get to 27 today and I knew if I left as soon as the sun was up and shining, I could get a long hike in and really enjoy the day. So, I packed up, loaded up and we took off about 1045. Cassanova is new around here and this was his first trip out in the wild outdoors of Popof Island. We both had a field day and enjoyed each others company....and he certainly enjoyed my lunch of smoked salmon, cream cheese and crackers. I didn't share my cookies with him though, there is a limit to my kindness and generosity.

Below is the backside of Battle Mountain and what I think would make a beautiful 18 hole golf course. It has a ready made water trap and the tundra hills would help anyone with a handicap. Getting here might prove to be a challenge, but I'm sure Toyota could figure out how to make a 4 wheel drive golf cart for this purpose.

The spit below is partially frozen at the edges and the lake must be low cause the creek that usually runs off into the ocean is no where to be found. There was no wind and you could hear the waves break against the shore and it was so peaceful.

And of course the self-photo, to prove that I really was here and survived the trip. Cassanova loved it and was out like a light when we got back. I don't think he even had dreams of his adventure, cause he never moved a muscle the rest of the aftenroon.

All in all another beautiful day in the life of my Aleutian Adventure.

Thank you Lord for clear skies, a dog that minds and of course smoked salmon!!

1 Razorback versus 7 Buffalo

2010-01-06T21:19:00.000-08:00

After the memorable New Year "blue full moon" beach trip, I headed up to Buffalo Ridge to enjoy a good hike. This was by far the most beautiful day we've had in over 3 weeks. It was clear, cool 32 degrees and no wind, so out the door I headed. My hiking buddy is in Hawaii (poor girl) and so I headed up here, not quite alone.

Pavlov and the Sister volcano were as clear as I had ever seen them and I felt as if they were watching over me as I walked. Even the eagle kept a close eye on me and circled over my head for a good 5 minutes after he took to flight. About half way up I took this shot just to show how little snow we have had. We seem to get more rain and if there is any snow accumulation, it doesn't last long with the warm temps and water fall.

I got to the top and I am still amazed at they sheer rugged beauty up here. And the smallness of the island when viewed from the ridge. But, the panorama view is just breathtaking and the surrounding Shumagin islands looked like little mole hills compared to where I am standing.

Even little Sand Point in the distance seems so far away. Hard to believe 2 hours ago I was down there looking up here, and thinking how every step was going to be worth it.

After taking all the photos this morning and so many more up here, this was the last shot I got off before my batteries died in the camera. I ate a snack of oranges, granola and string cheese and decided it was time to head down. It was a little after 3 in the aftenoon and I knew I had about 2 hours of sunlight left. I had brought a headlamp today, but I sure wanted off this hill before dark.

I no sooner got packed up and headed down this slope and I saw movement near the bluff down to the right. Okay, it was just a 4 wheeler, some of the guys are out hunting buffalo. Then out of nowhere came another, and another and another and then I realized those aren't 4 wheelers, those are buffalo! Seven of them and they are right in the trail I need to get down.

As you can see, there are no trees to climb, no rocks to hide behind (or under) and I had no gun, no radio, and a dead battery in my camera. Even in a crucial moment like this, I was thinking of the photos I was missing. But then my sanity kicked in and I realized "this is serious, those buffalo are big and in my path."

Well, I was told by a friend that the buffalo are more afraid of me than I of them and what in the world was I to do now? I thought about singing real loud and off key to scare them, and at this point I couldn't think of the words to "Kum Bay Ya" I was so shaken......no scared!!

So, being the semi-faithful Razorback fan I was, I thought what the heck, so I called the "hogs!"

I let out the loudest "woooooooooooooo pig sooooooeeeeee" that was ever heard up here. It took another good call before the big guy out front stopped and turned sideways to listen and sniff the air. I kept looking at the time and kept coming down the hill to get off the ice and snow. I had to call the hogs 3-4 more times before he trotted back to be with the other 6. They still didn't know what the sound was or what I was.....they just knew I was flailing my arms in my bright blue shirt and I was making some awful noise.

Finally, they all took off down the tundra and disappeared into the alders. My 2 hour hike up turned into a 1 hour trot down and the only breath I stopped to take was to call the hogs..... just to make sure the buffalo knew I was still there.

Although not a winning score in any ball game, today I was especially proud of my home state team..........the Razorback took the Buffalo..... 1:7...and in record time!

Blue Moon over the Aleutians

2010-01-02T10:48:00.000-08:00

I love full moons. Today was one of my most memorable adventures to date I think. I got out before the island even woke today and went to the beach to watch this once in my lifetime phenomena. The "blue full moon" that occurs once every 29 years. I don't ever remember of hearing of it before, but since this one was the second full moon this month and it fell on New Year's Eve, it was quite special.

It was a still, crisp 32 degrees as I left and crawled down to the beach in a friends truck. The roads sparkled with frost and ice and the last place I wanted to watch this event from was a ditch. But, I made it and was thrilled to be the only crazy one out for this reason. The beach was dark, deserted but so peaceful. Very little breeze and the ocean smelled so fresh. I couldn't make much out at first other than the moon reflecting off the water. But as the sun was rising behind me, the moon was setting before me and everything had this cool blue cast to it.

As it got a little lighter, I could make out the old pier posts and perched on top was a bald eagle. Every now and again it would call out with a high delicate screech, not shrill at all. Soon, I saw another fly in and perch on the pole next to the other. Now this was quite a sight as I walked the beach, these pair watching me watch them and the moon.

I hung around and took almost a hundred shots with both cameras and this proves I am not a professional photographer, because less than 10 turned out as good as I imagined. Oh well, it was so worth the trip and the experience.

The two eagles stayed on their perch and I walked up and down the beach as the rest of the island woke to the New Year. The outline of the mountains on the mainland appeared and I could tell the sun was coming up, casting a pink color to the snow capped range.

From where I was walking, I could just barely see over Unga and I could make out Pavlof and the Sister volcano shining in the rising light. I knew I had a great day ahead of me and so I headed back to the house, loaded my gear and headed for the other side of the island. Buffalo Ridge here I come. If the weather was going to be this pristine on New Years Day, there was no other place I could imagine spending the day, than out exploring this beautiful Aleutian place.

Gone to the Beach

2009-12-27T21:26:00.000-08:00

Well, not exactly Hawaii or Aruba, but even a trip to Sand Dollar Beach is a welcome trip these days. The wind and rain have not stopped for over a month now and today, regardless of that minor inconvenience, I packed up and headed out. I've been using the treadmill for exercise but there is something about the fresh air and the sound of the waves crashing on the rocks that lured me out. The trail was a mudslide and a challenge getting down there and the rain tried its best to keep me back. But full steam ahead and again, the Aleutian blue did not disappoint.

As soon as I topped the edge overlooking the low tide, the rain stopped, the sun came out and I almost ran down the last hill to the beach. I just stood there and let the breeze hit me and I felt like I was visiting a good friend and I had missed them dearly.

The mist floated by and left me to explore the beach, to look for shells or treasures and just recharge my senses.

The tide was out and a few water ripples were just too enticing to pass up with the camera. I immediately found petrified wood and added them to the pack. Today I even left a little room in the pack in anticipation I would find something...remembering from times past......I have to carry out by myself what I think are unforgettable finds.

Danger Point doesn't look so dangerous from this vantage point and the blue sky mixed with fierce winds made it look ruggedly beautiful as usual.

Not exactly what you would think when conjuring up images of heading to beach, but here it's give and take. The weather gives a little and I take advantage of the opportunity and head out to do a few of my favorite things....picking up a few rocks and leaving a few dreams and prayers.

Christmas Bazaar

2009-12-20T09:05:00.000-08:00

The annual Christmas Bazaar was this past weekend and what a success! I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and was able to help Denise with her table. This is a time when the local crafters, cooks, and consumers (like myself) come together and have fun, food, and a feeding frenzy.

All the hard work of salmon berry picking, jelly making, bread making and even marinated octopus and pickled fish paid off for these folks. Of course I had to buy a little of everything since I doubt my octopus catching or cooking abilities. Oh this stuff is soooooooo good!! eaten on a cracker it is delicious!! I took it to a potluck later on to share and half the jar was eaten in a few minutes. Everyone loves this delicacy I take it.

Handmade items, such as scarves, dream catchers, earrings were brought for display and sold to us less than talented in this arena.

I brought some of my bead work and sold half, so I made enough money to pay for all my supplies. Plus it is nice to be able to offer something back that I have learned since arriving here.

The sushi and Asian dishes were to die for and it was a pleasure having a table in between two great sushi tables. I guess I was the official tester of both booths and it was wonderful to say the least.

I've been here 10 months now and the experiences and tastes I've acquired are priceless. Not to mention the friendship, the acquaintances and the feeling of really "belonging" to this community has settled in and will make for a special Christmas this year!

Decorating for Christmas......Aleutian Style

2009-12-06T17:45:00.000-08:00

When I first came out here, I was bound and determined to bring minimal "things" to try and unclutter my life. But probably what I regret more than not bringing a food processor was not bringing Christmas decorations. Namely greenery and pine cones. There are no trees here to decorate, no pine cones to pick up...my friends know of this fetish I have...and no smells to remind me of home.......only the smell of fish and lots of wind.

So, Chelsea and I found a few things that wouldn't take up too much space in my luggage and I proceeded to decorate...right along with my existing decoupage of buffalo horns, rocks, shells and what-nots.

My mother was gracious enough to take the hanging right off her front door to send with me and this is your official invitation to come enjoy the holidays with me here in Sand Point.
I strung a few red lights along my windowsill to contrast the stark white of the apartment. I loved to sit by my fireplace back home with the fire glowing and no lights but the Christmas tree and this is as close as I'll be getting this year. I don't even have Christmas music, but I bet I learn how to download some on the iPod soon enough.

The businesses in Anchorage had gone all out with poinsettias, garland, HUGE pine cones and lights and it made for such a pretty contrast with all the white snow piled around.

This may not be the extravaganza of Anchorage, but the spirit of Christmas is alive and well and the true reason we celebrate won't be obscured here on the island, no matter how windy or fishy smelling it gets.

Home for Thanksgiving

2009-12-01T18:31:00.000-08:00

After almost three weeks of travel and family time, I am back in Anchorage for the final conference before heading back to Sand Point Friday. Every where I've been, Chicago, Streator, Little Rock, Morrilton, Greenbrier...the weather was gorgeous and upper 60's with clear blue skies. I ate too much, walked to little, and have a lot of work to do when I get back.

I met new and old friends, family and new babies every where I went. Boy do things change and I realize it more I think since I am so far away.

As I was packing to go home, the critters kept me company and seemed sad I was leaving. Charlie on the left, didn't remember me at first and hurt my feelings, Lillie the new addition is just precious and never stopped wagging her tail. Jasper the cat, as you can see, really got attached and wanted to stow away and come back with me.

Nice to know I will be missed (if not my computer bag) at least...........

So.......wardrobe change was needed and the winter stuff I've been dragging around with me came in handy after all. It is bitter cold here, more manageable since there is no wind...I see on the news the wind is up to 40-50 knots around Sand Point, so I am psyching myself up for the drastic change yet to come. I do miss the island and am ready to head home. This was a great trip and I loved seeing my friends and family back home.....looking forward to my friends in Sand Point and getting out to do some hiking and loose this Thanksgiving fluff that I seemed to accumulate. Fresh fish sounds good and I'm sure the fresh air (even at 50 knots) will be a welcome home treat!

Rich in Culture

2009-11-18T19:28:00.000-08:00

While here in Anchorage to re-certify for ACLS, I was thrilled to wander around the Alaska Native Medical Center and observe the artwork displayed throughout the hospital.

I love the Canada goose and my family has graced me with pieces over the years, from paintings to metal to wood....these geese were beautiful and most unusual as the wings were carved into heads and depicted the hunter in the wings; all carved from one piece of wood.

All along the five floors in the stairwells and lobbies, there are display cases and shadow boxes with beadwork, carvings of ivory, bone, wood, silver and rock. The artists are all Alaskan native and some of the artwork is even for sale in the gift shop. The artwork is on consignment, so the profits go directly back to the artist, no middle man and no mark up.

Occasionally you can find an artisan in the hospital lobby, selling their crafts. I was fortunate to find a gentleman selling jewelry (imagine that) and bought earrings and a pendant made from mastodon bone. If I were to find such, it would be illegal to possess, but since it is made from a native, it is legal for them to sell it and me posses it.

The scrimshaw is carved on bone or ivory, taken from walrus tusks, whale bone or seal bones. The ultimate possession is the oosik, the bony structure from the male walrus genitalia..harvested only by the locals.

The woodwork is hand carved and the colors used for the paint are from coal (black) and seal blood (red). The ceremonial masks are still used in dances and ceremonies within the many tribes.

The grass baskets are so intricate and this is one of the Aleut specialties even in my area. They gather the long grass and weave these beautiful baskets and actually use them to gather berries and other harvests.

Alaska is so rich in history and in culture. If it had not been rude, I would have taken pictures of some of the locals. Long hair, fur kuspuks, mukluk boots, beaded earrings and the familiar chisled face. Toughened by the climate and the living environment, some of the elders look weathered and worn, but never without a sparkle in their eyes. As I was people watching in the lobby, I spied a local from the village where I live and it was so nice to be able to go up and talk with her.

What a small and rich world we are traveling in!! Alaska is so beautiful........................

All squall and no whine

2009-11-16T19:10:00.001-08:00

Despite the weather changing every 15 minutes, my flight out of Sand Point today was perfect!! Prayers were answered and I was overwhelmed at the beauty all along the way. This is the bluff overlooking Red Cove beach and the view of temporary sunshine we have seen for 4 days now.

Everyone at work was chiding me about not getting out today and I told them they either needed to pray for a break in the squall or there would be some whining..southern style!!

That would be loud, drawn out and never ending......

(I knew they wanted to get rid of me, so I think they started praying with me.)

As we headed what felt like straight up and did a U-turn, you can see the clouds already hitting the airport and the south end of the island.

Once we were over Unga, I could see how beautiful the skies were up here. Like that mountain I know is out there, sometimes obscured by the fog, rain, sleet and snow...I knew the skies were clear once we passed this shelf of bad weather.

The rugged peaks of the mainland are anything but inhabitable. As the sun was setting it cast a pink shadow on the snow and it was just breathtaking.

Once I landed in Anchorage, the temps dipped to 7 degrees, clear blue skies and no wind. I'm not sure I will be able to sleep tonight without the 5o mph wind rocking the apartment and howling me to sleep.

Knowing prayers were answered and I had safety of travel, traveling grace and a beautiful view, I think I will rest well knowing "He's got the whole world in his hands"...even you and me out here in this vast and beautiful wilderness!!

So, no whining for today and one leg of my trip home has started.

Good night everyone and God surely does bless!!!

Heading Home

2009-11-12T19:20:00.000-08:00

My bags have been packed for a week and are getting closer to the door. I'm leaving.............just for a break...not for good!! I head out Monday for a much needed break and training sessions.

I have to recert in ACLS Tuesday and Wednesday next week, then I leave for Chicago to visit Mom and the gang, then down to Arkansas to wrap myself in southern hospitality and ya'lls before I head back to Anchorage to attend a Diabetes conference. I'll be gone a total of three weeks and I probably won't get a lot of posting done here. Unless of course I decide to go deer hunting in Arkansas and get one, then you'll hear about it!! Deer are much more accessible than buffalo, don't ya know!

I'll have lot's of visiting and appointments to get to..I need my hair cut, a massage and a visit to the chiropractor. Lot's of hugs and laughter coming I'm sure......

I'll keep you posted, but everyone have a great Thanksgiving

Winter is here...........

2009-11-06T13:40:00.000-08:00

Remember the faith I told you I had to have to believe those beautiful mountains are out there?
Here is a test of faith when the winds brought gusts up to 100 mph last night, blinding HUGE wet snow flakes and today this is my $1million dollar view.

The winds have died to about 35-50 mph and the temperature is around 30. Believe it or not, the planes still come in. The mail plane comes daily at 6 am and we sometimes get 2 flights from PennAir, lovingly referred to here as WhenAir...when they get here who knows?

I can barely see the buildings across the tundra and I defintiely can't see the towers or mountains across the water.

The clinic is pretty hazed out right now. But, the weather changes here about every 15 minutes and by the time I made my tuna salad for lunch, the snow stopped and the sun came out. But a few minutes have gone by and blurred again.

No much accumulation today, since the wind blows it to the next island or out to the ocean. Now it is just wet and slushy....welcome to Alaska!

The Wind

2009-11-05T08:10:00.000-08:00

I woke today to the first real storm of the season and the worst the weatherman says he has seen hit the Aleutians and the east coast. Category 4 hurricane winds, gust of 75 - 80 mph and rain hitting the windows, running sideways and UP the glass. The building is literally shaking on its foundation and I have prayed a protective hedge around myself and others here on the island.

When I first got here in March, the wind was powerful everyday and it lulled me to sleep at night. This doesn't feel lullish today, it feels fierce. Several weeks ago we had gusts 30-45 mph and the car door blew shut on my head and left quite a knot. Today I will be very careful lest I should loose my head completely and I am praying Oliver is securely anchored down when he goes out to potty otherwise he would wind up in Kansas!

Thank goodness the temperatures are only in mid thirties, otherwise this could be tough. This is where I can hear someone say "hold on to your hats ladies and gentlemen the ride is about to get rough!"

I feel welcomed to the Aleutians!!

My view from here

2009-11-02T13:36:00.000-08:00

This is the view from my living room window that I get to look at every morning. Now, somedays I have to have faith those mountains are out there cause it is so foggy, rainy, or cloudy I can't see them. But when the sun comes out, what a breathtaking view. I really like living upstairs cause I get such a better view of everything.

If I look left out the same window, I can see the clinic from here (building on the far left) and it takes me a full 4 mintues to walk there. Providing of course there isn't 50 mph wind, otherwise it take about 7 minutes to get there. If I cut straight through the alders in front, it takes only 5 1/2!!

From the clinic parking lot, I get to look at this view that leads me home. That's Buffalo Ridge in the background. My apartment is the right building, top floor. The landing going to my 2nd floor doubles as my porch, and I sit in my $40 lawn chair and watch the moon come up, star gaze or just watch Battle Mountain. Very peaceful and protected from the elements.

Not only are the eagles and ravens in abundance, but we have a lot of ptarmagins here, too. You have to look close to see this one almost camoflauged in the tundra. They turn white in the winter and this one is in mid change. Some people here hunt them and wouldn't you know, they say it tastes like "dark chicken."

A Run for the Ridge

2009-10-28T21:48:00.001-07:00

Today was Thai's last day at the clinic and we decided to make one more run for the ridge on the 4 wheeler to get a hopeful look at the buffalo before he left the island. Every day there seems to be a little more powder on the ridge than the day before and the weather is dipping into the 30's and hovering. Thank goodness there has not been much wind and the sunshine has been SPECTACULAR!!!

Of course the days are getting shorter so when we headed out after work, we didn't have long to stop and smell the tundra before hitting the trail hard to get to the top before the sunset.
Among Thai's talents of being a great Physician Assistant, an Antarctic expedition guide and a mountaineer, he is also a very safe and careful 4 wheeler operator. He borrowed my bike and made probably 10 trips up here in the three weeks he's been here working with us. I braved a ride with him several weeks ago in the rain, mist and fog and it left a lot to be desired. But today, I couldn't help but get excited because it was so nice outside. Cold, but nice..

We got up here in time to get in a few shots of the snow frosted peaks, frozen tundra and a good look around to see if we could spot buffalo. Lot's of frozen tracks, nothing warm except the engine of my bike.

How do you describe the array of the colors we saw in the night sky? Orange, pink, blue, black, gray....all melding together at just the right time...made by the stroke of an artists brush that left nothing but perfection and one wondering in awe...."How mighty the Creator!"

We had fun hamming it up and adding another rock or two to Katie's point, where another friend had visited a few weeks ago. She too is in awe of the Alaska wonders and is enjoying her own adventure in Adak, truly at the end of the Aleutian chain.

Pavlof in all it's majesty stuck it's head out of the clouds and let me capture the beauty surrounding it. You might be able to imagine the splendor but I can't even describe what goes on in your heart when you see this with your own eyes and you listen to the absolute stillness and quiet around you. No trains, planes, dogs barking....only quiet beauty and such calm.....ahhhhhh you could just stand here and look forever.........or until you have no light left and then it's time to head down.

In the daylight, these places are beautiful in different shades of brown and gold and green. But this night view brings so much more to life and takes on a new beauty that is just breathtaking.

Funny, after we got back down the mountain, it didn't even dawn on me that we hadn't seen a buffalo or even remembered to look for them after the sun started setting and the sky began it's light show.

At least I know they are here, I've seen them if only from a distance. But oh what journeys I've had so far and what journeys are yet to come. Who knows, I may not come up here again until spring, but I can sure look out my back door and know without a doubt what beauty waits up here on the ridge.