My master plan of becoming one with the animals is almost complete. I landed in this field 10 minutes outside of Anchorage and the sun was too inviting. Forecasters had all of us expecting rain and 40's, but it turned out sunny and warm. Hey, 60's is warm around here. It always amazes me the temperature swings this environment can handle. Take Fairbanks for example-- in 1961, a record low of minus 66 degrees F (put the shirt back on). The year 1991 brought a record high of 94 degrees F (off with shirt and pants). (Hey buddy, this is a family joint). If one does the math-- remembering to carry the "1"... that's an extreme of 160 degrees!! Hmmm... what's colder, minus 60 degrees fahrenheit or minus 60 celsius? The scales cross at minus 40. So minus 60 celsius is colder. Not that it really matters since the nose hairs have frozen so much earlier anyway. What else freezes? Fairbankians... Fairbankanese... Fairbanksssiissnns... and their tires. Rubber tires will freeze and roll like a block of cement.
Eklutna Lake in the Chugach Forest. The Chugach borders and melts into Anchorage proper. This paradise is only minutes outside of a street light, and offers year-round recreation. I'm headed to the far end, where "Bold" airstrip lies.
The mix of greens in the trees are all over Alaska. Alaska Birch and Black Spruce.
It's been a relaxing afternoon close to home base. Tomorrow, if mother nature's weather smiles on us, it will be time to head out for some more exploring, likely for the rest of the week. I'm hoping to make it up to the Brooks Range, towards the North Slope of Alaska. The Brooks Range has been called the Serengeti of Alaska. Tons of wildlife. It's a little early in the year, and it's still winter up there, so we'll see how things go. How cold and wet could it be?! Quoting one of the most famous travelers of all time, Marco Polo: "An Adventure is misery and discomfort, relived in the safety of reminiscence."
Po says you're too damn white, put the shirt back on! I think I need to call in sick for sick for a week or two. Now how many fuel stops in the Cirrus to get to Anchorage... :)
Posted by:Bryan | May 25, 2007 at 10:37 AM
If you get by Nondalton on six mile lake near Iliamna, go by Newhalen Lodge and see Bill Simms. He's done a little bush flying. I had the good fortune to work for him one summer. You'd enjoy visiting with him and seeing his collection of bush planes.
Nice work on the blog!
Posted by:Sam Sellars | May 27, 2007 at 12:51 PM
Shaun,
Fantastic photos and great commentary. Thanks for taking the time to put the blog together.
Best wishes from Santa Rosa,
Tom Frazer
SportCub #33
Posted by:Tom Frazer | May 28, 2007 at 09:40 AM
Terrific blog and amazing pictures. I have flown two trips to Alaska and miss it. Have to get back.
Posted by:Roy Thompson | May 28, 2007 at 12:05 PM
Great shots! Last night, Kiff and I were talking about your travels up north and it got me wondering how it's going. Looks like you're managing to get some awesome experiences up there. Your pictures are amazing. You still traveling, or did work finally catch up?
Posted by:Denver | June 30, 2007 at 09:25 AM