10 July 1998
First Day in Alaska

Flew into Anchorage today. I met Myrtle at Seattle-Tacoma airport. It was real hard to leave my parents, but I know I will see them soon. Myrtle made me feel at homeSwhen I met her, she gave me a hug. I met Renee and Noa at the airport. We get along real well. When we first got into Anchorage (and out of the airport), we went shopping for our rain gear, which was neat because I kept thinking of all the cool things I will be doing where I will need that much gear! We ended up at Glacier Brewhouse, and while we waited (an hour) we killed time by visiting some local shops with native art in them. The ivory carvings (made out of walrus tusks) are so awesome. I had a halibut sandwich, which was delicious, Mom and Gordon, you would by proud!

Noa and I walked it off at the mudflats, only a two minute walk from the hotel. There is a park and old house, that is supposedly haunted by its first owner. There were birds, and many mosquitoes! Let's keep in mind, at this time it is 10:30-11:20, and the sun is just setting (marvelous view!!). In the distance, there is a view of snow-topped mountains, where the glaciers are. They are as smooth as glass, but massive. We came back from our walk, and I pressed the flowers I collected. I know that one is a clover, and one of the others is a daisy. It is 12:06 approximately and the sun is still not completely down, at least it is still light outside! So much for my first day Shopping good luck for the rest : )

13 July 1998
Day 4: Working on River Otters at the SeaLife Center, Seward

Seward is a picturesque town,
Full of the wonders of Prince William Sound.
Who can awake to the sounds of kittiwakes,
Without rejoicing that a new day breaks?

Seward promises a unique beginning
On this fine Monday morning.
Who said Mondays were bleak,
When river otters await for me to meet?

May I take your time to share my joy?
Today I followed a bald eagle, to watch it toy
With a fish caught in its beak.
And swoop over all the seagulls, in comparison, weak!!

So today I highlight the unique and exciting,
Only to be found in Alaska ... no other place so captivating.
Hope you liked this little poem
And can imagine how I don't miss home!!
(The lower forty-eight, that is!)