Summer fun

This has been an epic Alaska summer - warm sunny days, relaxing evenings, and overworked days. Yes, nothing ever works out perfectly. For work, I've taken on some additional responsibilities which has required me to travel to Fairbanks on a regular basis. It isn't a bad commute, but of course responsibilities bring some pressure.

But, onto the more fun things. We planted a garden, a first for us. Although like everything I wish I had more time for it, I love the therapuetic aspect of weeding and taking care of it. And, it is amazing watching the things grow - green beans, carrots, lettuce. Yum! Stay tuned... we're focusing on the Northwest (wine and food).

We also took a great long weekend trip with our girls. Amanda, Jenna, Carli and me went to Portland, OR for a trip. Our girls are excellent travellers - no complaining, eat anything, go along with anything, entertain themselves endlessly and jump right in to new activities. In Portland we went to the Chinese Garden (peaceful and serene); Washington Park and with the roses (intoxicating); the Japanese Gardens (a connection to nature); and, Multonomah Falls (exhilirating). The girls climbed all the way to the top of the falls with us, showing their true spirit with cruising to the top.

We spent one day in the wine country, a full report which can be found on my sister blog (alaskagrapenuts.blogspot.com). I really (really) enjoy experiencing wine country and seeing the location the grapes are grown, meeting the wine makers, and tasting terroir.

Recently, we went dipnetting. This will turn out to be a bit of a lean year for us as far as reds go. I just had our last boat trip cancelled, so it looks like we'll have what we have. I'm hoping to get a bunch of Silvers between Valdez and some runs up some rivers or something, we'll see.

The kids have had a full summer. The boys went to Cub Scout camp and basketball camp. All the kids went to a church camp. Now, the raspberries are ripening and so a nightly activity is going to pick those.

This is a bit abrupt and quick of a report, but better than nothing. Summer in Alaska is light, full, and fun. I hope summer is treating you all well, also.