We were very excited to get to spend a week with my brother and his family during their Alaskan vacation. I got five days off to hang out but unfortunately Andrew had to work most of the time during their visit. They rented a little cabin just down the street from us that had two rooms and indoor plumbing (stuff we can't offer yet)! It was the perfect place for them.
We started the week out with a hike along the Savage River. We didn't make it the whole way due to an unplanned dip in the river by the youngest. Alex, three years old, stepped off the trail into a bush that he didn't realize was overhanging on the bank of the river and fell straight through! Splash! With very quick reacting by my brother, he pulled him out of the river in no time. Safe and sound and a bit shook up, but not as shaken up as his aunt and uncle who knows what happens to a lot of people that end up swimming in these silty glacial fed rivers.
There's Alex poking Andrew in the butt! HA! Gotcha!
It was a little chilly and overcast that day, but a nice treat to be out and about.
Girl time was always appreciated!
Madison, seven years old, and I enjoyed blue bell wildflowers as trail snacks along the way.
Luke, five years old, enjoyed the "walk" as well. He didn't won't to go on a hike, but walking was good!
Alex and I enjoying some one on one time!
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Next a visit to the Denali Park sled dog kennels.
Alex really enjoyed this stop.
The sled used during the demonstration. Notice the wheels on the underside in the back. They used the old-school harnesses too that are made with thick, heavy leather and wood.
A short lap around the yard shows the power and love for running that these dogs possess. The kids said they were ready for Andrew and I to get some sled dogs! Andrew is too, but I'm not (although you think that would be opposite). Maybe by the next time they come to visit we'll have some!
Hot, happy dogs!
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Next was a trip to Fairbanks and North Pole. First stop Santa's house! He wasn't there that day but his reindeer were!
Luke in front of Santa's chair enjoying a free candy cane.
Of course Madison loved seeing this giant (probably life-size) polar bear. Luke and Alex did too!
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Second hike in the park....to Horseshoe Lake!
Very excited kiddos!
While climbing on these dirt and gravel piles, Madison was explaining to me how it compared to hiking Mt. McKinley! She said she could do it much faster than it took Uncle Andrew and I! I told her I would remind her of that in about 20 years!
Big excitement seeing the train come by so close.
Very nice weather this day....partly cloudy and in the mid 60s.
The kids were in to spotting all kinds of wildlife.
Horseshoe lake is backed up by a beaver dam.
Luke searching for the mighty beaver! And a moose that we apparently just missed seeing by the lake's edge.
The beaver dam.
Happy kids!
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One of the most fun things for the kids was the four wheeler!
I don't know whose happier, Luke or Andrew??? Probably Luke at this moment, but it's not far off from Andrew every time he gets on for a ride!
Edward and Alex heading out for a ride.
Me and Madison! Madison was really good with the throttle. A little quick on the first take off, but very consistent and not jerky. And boy, does she like to go fast!
On their last night, the kids spent the evening with me while their parents went out on a date and Andrew was at work. After a spaghetti dinner (made with moose burger by the way....I don't think they were ever told that!) we had a campfire and made s'mores! I think they ate more s'mores than spaghetti. That's probably one reason they were up so late that night. Sorry Martha, sorry Edward! :)
Alex doing a little jig by the campfire!
Boss dog got lots of attention this night.
All went well that night except when Madison touched the hot end of the marshmellow stick which blistered her fingers and when Luke got stung by a bee while playing frisbee with Boss. They both handled it very well after the initial meltdown. Towards the end of the evening we went on a walk and collected rocks and played with sticks. It's simple entertainment at Aunt Jennifer's and Uncle Andrew's.
We had such a great time during your visit and are already looking forward to the next! Thanks for taking the time to hang out!!!
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