April Snow

Two weeks ago looked to be the last of the snow. The river was thawing and in some areas you could see that there is grass beneath that fluffy white stuff. Kelly even took down some of the lights. The kids were even getting excited about going to the playground and not worrying about sticking to the metal poles. With all that said it was much to my surprise to wake up this morning and find six inches of snow with more on the way. Needless to say, I think the upcoming T-ball league for the kids will probably be delayed. Other interesting note, it is light out before 6 am and doesn't get dark until about 11 pm. We will have to get some blackout material for the kids bedroom so we stop hearing the excuse at bedtime "but the sun isn't down...".

Week of True Winter

This past week was the icon of winter in Alaska. Monday we started out at -40 which puts a heck of a chill in the air. Thursday I woke up to a foot of extra snow that accumulated over the night. Instead of running I went snow shoeing which was more of a workout. With all this powder, skiing, tubing, and/or snow machining may be on for the weekend. -B

Dog Sledding

BECK went on a dog sled ride through the Birch Hill woods. One of the "100 things to do in Alaska" we did not mind getting tugged behind some supper energetic pups through some nice winter scenery. It was a nice warm day at -5 and the snow seemed to pose on the trees for a photo. -BECK

The Great Flood

For those that believe there is balance in life, here is your proof. After a few hours at the Ice Park, we came home to a flooded house. Nothing major ruined, yet. Although the water was leaking straight onto the treadmill so we shall see if it will survive. A wet carpet, some damaged light fixtures, and some painting will need to occur. We are still confused as well as the fire department and maintenance crew why this happened since there is no noticed leaks. I think it was the ghosts... Well, it could happen according to Kelly's Ghost Hunting books and television shows. !)

The North Pole Ice Park

Open for only a few more days, the family explored the North Pole Ice park. There were multiple sculptures as well as a few Ice Slides which the kids loved.

-32 and Dropping

Yesterday it was -32 degrees which shuts down only a little in Fairbanks. That little being school recess and the ski hill. I have found that wearing the right clothes for me is not the issue, but convincing the kids that they need to cover thier face and stop taking off the gloves has been a problem. At times I have resorted to athletic tape to force them to leave the mittins on which is not the greatest of ideas. CJ wants to make a snowman but unfortunately the snow is too dry, almost like sand without the weight. We have yet to go tubing on the slopes and have setteled for just some sledding around the neighborhood. Have a happy holliday season and stay warm!

Driving South to the North Pole

'Tis the season and so the wife and kids went to Santa's House at the North Pole. Unfortunately he was not home but they did get to see some Reindeer and the big guy's sleigh. There is the begginings of a Ice Park and one of the first pieces is a Ice sculpture of a Turkey. More to follow as this place comes more alive with creativity. -BECK