Alaska State Fair

What do you think of when you think of going to the fair? If you're like most, it's bright lights, cotton candy, ferris wheels, merry-g0-rounds and cute critters in the animal exhibits. The Alaska State Fair has all that and more. From the top of the ferris wheel, you look down on not just the fairgrounds but the surrounding mountains, an awe-inspiring view. Kids flock to rides while their parents chuckle as the browse through the Salmon on Parade exhibit.

The merry-go-round, with its majestic, brightly colored steeds circles endlessly, delighting those to cowardly or perhaps even sensibly "mature" to tackle the more thrilling rides. It's a time to forget your troubles or, here in Alaska, the approaching winter, and simply remember what it was like to be a kid again. Ol' fashioned and a bit hookey, true, but fun.

Rainy Daze

I took this picture in late June while having lunch at the lodge in Hatcher Pass. Two months later, it's just as applicable today. It seems as though all it's done this summer is rain, rain to the point that the Mat-Su Valley has suffered flooding. Roads have been washed out and homes lost, with even a couple mudslides adding to the mess here and there. Makes me glad I live on a hill, even if I am beginning to think the dogs may be sprouting webbed feet any day now.

Snow on the mountains

Hmm, after days and days and days of rain, the clouds finally lifted, giving us our first real view of the mountains in some time. This was the sight that greeted us. Oh, my, termination dust in August?

Sad news....Susan Butcher is now on the trail with Joe Redington, Sr

This is how I prefer to remember Susan, with a smile that could light up the world. RIP, Susan, and don't forget to call "Trail!" when you, with Granite in lead, pass Joe Sr. on the trail.

Susan Butcher
Dec. 26, 1956 - August 5, 2006

Photo (1999) Courtesy Bonnie Lundberg