David's mother came to visit us from Utah on September 12 and stayed until the 19th. We were able to show her a little around Fairbanks and surrounding areas and had a really good time all together. We were able to take her to The Knotty Shop (I know it sounds like a not-so-nice place when you say it out loud) in Salcha where we were able to see animals made out of trees that grow "knots" on them and were able to eat the best icecream in Alaska (or so it has been said). Then we went to see Santa at The Santa House in North Pole. Unfortunately, Santa wasn't there but we were able to see 4 of his reindeer. One of them in particular, really liked Steven. It was really fun to watch him interact with the reindeer, I think it was Blitzen!
Another day we went to Gold Dredge No. 8 and panned for gold. I think Kasey made out with the most gold (again). Our family has been to another gold panning place but decided to take David's mom to this one to see if it was any different. I think I liked the first one better, but Gold Dredge was pretty good too. It had museums and an old dredge that digs the dirt for gold. The funnest (is that a word?) part was panning for gold!
We had never been on the Riverboat Discovery and thought that might be something fun to do too. It's a boat tour of the Chena River. Unfortunately, it was probably the coldest day of the whole time that David's mom was here. But it was really fun to be able to get on a riverboat and float down the Chena River. We were able to watch a bush pilot demonstrate his taking off and landing skills on the Chena. Along the way, we were able to stop at the Chena Village and learn a little more about the Athabascan Indians that live in this area and their culture. Also at the village, there was a presentation about sled dogs. When we came up to the fence, the dogs all came running to our side of the fence so they could check Steven out. He was the highlight of the whole demonstration. All in all, the day was awesome!
The last place we went was to Denali to see the Denali National Wildlife and Preserve. Unfortunately, the day was cloudy and we weren't able to see Mt. McKinley, but we were only allowed to drive 30 miles into the park, so we may not have been able to see it anyway. But we snapped some good scenic pictures. Unfortunately, pictures don't really show you how beautiful it was, but that's the best we can do for now. Or you could just come and visit and then we will take you to see it too!
We were glad that David's mom came to visit. We had a nice time with her and hated to see her go.
(Ok, Mama, now it's your turn! :) )
4 comments:
That sounds like SO much fun! Golly, I wish we could go to Alaska. We'd be at Fort Waynewright. Is that where you are?
How sweet is that?!? It sounds like you guys had a great time.
I had such a great time with all of you. The best part about coming was all the hugs, playing with Alysson and Kasey, finally getting to hold Steven, and talking to David and Jessica after everyone else was in bed.
It meant a lot to me--staying a week in your home.
Thank you!
Love,
Mom/Grandma
Such beautiful pictures. We sure would love a chance to come visit. How cold does it get again???? :-)
Post a Comment