Behind the times

You would think that three months after our vacation to Alaska, I would have completed photos/blog posts. You would also think that after three full days on the couch I would have had an excuse to finish. Neither option is true.

Day Five: We drove from Seward to Homer. The most interesting photo of that day is...

	I wish I could blame my lack of enthusiasm from a dose of pain killers but no. Just tired of being holed up in the house. I don't do well with being dependent on others.

I always find this interesting

Todd and I often carry our cameras at the same time. His is so much better than mine but mine is decent. What I find interesting is that Todd and I are looking at the same things on our adventures but our photos are always from different perspectives. Here is my photo from Saturday of a blue heron.

From henricus

and now look at his.

The day I had been looking forward to...day four

When Todd and I decided to go to Alaska, the one thing I knew I wanted to do was go whale watching. I began researching companies and reading reviews on all the different tours. There was an incredible sounding trip. A nine hour tour with no more than 25-30 people. The captain questioned the passengers that morning on what they wanted to see and then he decided the route of his boat. One problem. We arrived August 22nd. The last date of this tour was August 23rd. Oh well. I found an eight and half hour tour that did a very large tour of Kenai Fjords National Park and also stopped for dinner on the way back. The tour we did was with Kenai Fjords Tours. It was a long and wonderful day. I became emotional as we were leaving Seward. Most of it was from anticipation. A very small part was my need to see wildlife (especially whales-Killer or Humpback) and my tears were from sheer happiness that a dream was being fulfilled. Here are some of my photos. My purpose was to enjoy the day and not necessary capture it on film. (Todd did that for me...wait to you see his large mammal photo).

From alaska #1

This is the town of Seward...seen from the boat.

From alaska #1

My best picture of the Orca.

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Stellar sea lions...I love the one yawning.

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Doesn't he look like he is covering his ears. I either under or over exposed all my photos of sea otters.

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Here is the glacier calving. I believe this is Aialik Glacier but I can't remember exactly. I am going by a map I have from the trip.

From alaska #1

This is one of my only two pictures of the humpback. He was a lone male feeding when we (or the captain) found him.

From alaska #1

A strange place for the horned puffin to take a nap.

Day 3 begins with Sourdough Pancakes

When we decided to go to Alaska and began researching places, buying books, and looking on-line, I noticed the claims of legendary sourdough and longstanding sourdough starters at several restaurants. Day three we were scheduled to travel to Seward. I requested eating at an establishment along the way that boasted of sourdough pancakes. I just had to try them. I had already figured out how to get to Gwennie's before I even asked to go. I got my sourdough and was so excited by the smell as the waitress put the plate in front of me. I must say once the syrup is on there, you can't taste the sourdough anymore. Oh well, at least I got a chance to try them.

The drive to Seward from Anchorage is considered an Alaska Scenic Highway and voted an All-American Road by the Department of Transportation. You drive along Turnagain Arm, through Chuguch State Park and Forest, pass by people picking blueberries in the fields, have a chance to see Beluga Whales in Cook Inlet or spot a Dall sheep along the cliffs. It is a beautiful drive and has many turnoffs so that you can stop and take in the scenery. I, of course, wanted to see the beluga whales. The Cook Inlet belugas are genetically distinct and geographically isolated from other beluga whales. That is not the reason I wanted to see these whales. I just want to see a Beluga and thought this may be my best chance. At milepost 110, you can turn into Beluga Point. From this vantage point, you may watch the bore tide or possibly see belugas as they follow the bore tide. We were there at low tide. No beluga whales. We also stopped at Bird Point. This is another turn off along this stretch of highway. Even though its Bird Point, this is the location with the beluga sculptures and information about the Cook Inlet Beglua Whales. The tide was still out.
There were options of things to do along the way to Seward. You can go to Girdword and ride the tram to the 2300 foot Mount Alyeska. There is a restaurant up there and supposedly beautiful views. You can stop at Portage Glacier and take a short boat trip to see the glacier. The glacier has receded from view from the Begich, Boggs Visitor Center. We stopped here and we could see icebergs that had drifted down to the center. We chose to not see the glacier up close since we were doing the tour of Kenai Fjords the next day. We chose to go to Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. The animals are here due to rehabilitation needs. I got very close to a moose with just a wire fence between us. The grizzly bears were equally as close but it had electricity attached to their fence. While there, the gift shop staff reported that some of the animals were used in the film Into the Wild. (I suggest reading the book before seeing the movie.)

Slowly we made our way to Seward. Which will be a day four post. Below are pictures along the way on day three.

From alaska #1

This Black-bill Magpie decided to pose for me at the appropriately named Bird Point.

From alaska #1

A view of Turnagain Arm and surrounding mountains. See it wasn't too sunny this day either.

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This was the younger Grizzly bear at the wildlife center and yes I was this close. I didn't zoom in for this shot.

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This is an iceberg in Portage Lake. That isn't Portage Glacier in the view. I believe that is Burns Glacier. For those of you who believe the glaciers aren't receding, you just need to go to Alaska and view the evidence. Every one we went to had pictures of where it had been 40, 30 or even ten years ago. The rate at which they are receding seems to be accelerating. At one time, you could see Portage Glacier from this center. You no longer can and have to take a boat to the face of it.

From alaska #1

This is an unknown (possibly not named) glacier high on the mountain. We pulled over to a little picnic area just below the Portage Area and this was part of our view. The water was so blue there-as it was everywhere in Alaska.

Day Two of our trip

Day two we continued to our exploration from Anchorage. Our dilemma was "what to do". The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, Alaska Botanical Gardens, Eklutna Native Village and the Alaska State Fair were all options that were discussed. Some more easily dismissed than others (state fair for example). However, our decision was to go to Hatcher Pass. This is a scenic drive through the Talkeetna Mountains. On this drive, you pass few people. At points, we were surprised at how quiet everything was...obviously, this was when we got out of the car. You pass an old mine that while in operation searched the mountains for the mother lodes that produced the flakes that other miners were panning for in the streams. It is now a historical park and has very picturesque buildings settled in a valley in the mountains. I did not get a picture, which I regret. At the summit, there is a place to stop. There were some workers there and they suggested we hike this trail that they recently had cut on the hill. They said there is a lake at the top and it is very scenic. I was not dressed warm enough and still sore from the hike the previous day and opted to not go which I think made Todd not go. I suggested he go without me but, he didn't. This is something he regrets and I do too now. It was a rare opportunity. I learned to dress better after that day. I just wasn't prepared for the wind. I needed a windbreaker actually. These are some pictures from our drive.

From alaska #1

I believe this river is Little Susitna. AND yes, the water is blue. All streams, lakes, ponds were blue. (By the way, I am guessing this is a river. What is between a stream and a river?)

From alaska #1

This is an Arctic Ground Squirrel. I was sure it was a prairie dog of some sort and for the longest time, the only wild animal we saw in Alaska. I was starting to believe they lied about the moose and the bear. Anyway, like typical squirrels, they are not too afraid of humans and are actually hanging around for some handouts.

From alaska #1

This is either from the highest point or looking out from Summit Lake. I am not sure. Summit Lake is just a little ways further on the drive.

This is at Summit Lake. I don't even think I attempted a picture of the lake. This was a stream feeding into the larger body of water. I just liked that little patch of red at the top. It was unbelievable how many flowers were blooming and the variety of colors that we saw on our trip. Many times we were surrounded by wildflowers.

Day 1-Sunny (or so it said)

Upon arriving in Anchorage, we looked at the forecast. Our best day was to be Sunday. The forecast said sunny. Todd and I had plans to visit Potters Marsh on Tuesday as we drove to Seward. Since it appeared our weather was going to be poor, we decided to move Potters Marsh and our hike to Flattop Mountain to Sunday. Sunday wasn't sunny...or at least not until 4 p.m.
Potter Marsh, at the southern end of the Anchorage Coastal Wildlife Refuge, is an easily accessible and scenic wildlife viewing area. To the south, Turnagain Arm sweeps out to Cook Inlet. Bald eagles, water birds, and spawning salmon are found here. A 1,550-foot boardwalk assists individuals in their pursuit of the plentiful birds. Spring is the best time to visit but it appeared we may be privileged to some shorebirds and swans. Here are some pictures from Potter's Marsh. Notice no birds, in my pictures at least.

From alaska #1

First, we drove past the main entrance and went down to another area...not as friendly to the visitor. No birds but I did find this "grass" wonderful. I really appreciated the purple horsetail affect.

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Here's the salmon. Where are the bears?.

For the second 1/2 of the day, we tried to hike Flattop Mountain.

Flattop is climbed more often than any mountain in Alaska, and that is a mixed blessing. It has a high trail head with plenty of space for parking, a mostly maintained trail (until you get to the top when you are already tired), and summit vistas from Cook Inlet to Denali. Alaska is famous for its beautiful wilderness, not for its crowds. Flattop has both. Flattop's peak is at 3500 feet. Hikers only have to climb the last 1300 hundred feet in 1.5 miles. Remember how I said the forecast was sunny. Well it was cloud covered most of the day including our hike. We couldn't tell how far we had come or how high we were. Sometimes we could barely see fifty feet in front of us. This may have been a blessing in disguise. I think Todd and I would have hesitated long before we did if, we could actually see our location or destination. We were almost to the top...the point where you have to use your hands in addition to your feet to reach the summit. This was where we both chickened out and both said we couldn't do the last stretch.

From alaska #1

Near the top looking over a ledge.

From alaska #1

This is Flattop Mountain after we came down. Notice the clouds/fog had burned almost completely away at this time.

Honey, I'm home.

Guess where I just got back from?

Black & White or Color

Todd and I have been to South River Falls Trail two times this month: May 3rd and again May 17th. Our goal was birdwatching, not actually going down to the falls. I do not have my hiking legs as of yet and that 3 1/2 miles is enough for me. I haven't captured too many fascinating items on film (disk that is) but, I did play with the black and white feature on my camera. Below is virtually the same photo in color and black & white. I do not think these are outstanding photos. Just a look at the same scenery, two different ways.

Farmer's Markets

It is that wonderful time again when the farmer's markets open up. Just around the Richmond area, there is the original downtown market open Thursdays and Saturdays. In Ashland, Forest Hill and Goochland, there are markets open on Saturday. Tuesday you can get to a very good market in Oregon Hill and just recently a market opened on Wednesdays and Saturdays in Lakeside.
Last year, I spent many a Saturday buying fresh fruit, fresh vegetables, local pork, chicken, eggs and beef. I only went to the grocery store for cereal, milk, and things like laundry detergent.
Last week was my first visits to the markets and this is my list of purchases: fresh asparagus (so yummy), strawberries, cabbage plants, and a cherry tomato plant at the Lakeside market. Saturday, I purchased pork bratwurst (raised in Farmville), hamburger meat (beef raised here in Powhatan), a Black Brandywine tomato plant, a basil plant, and freshly baked sourdough bread (that was very yummy too!)
I like that I know the individuals (or at least their faces) I am giving my money too. The Ault Family Farm is the man I buy pork and eggs from. He always has whole chickens but I have yet to be that brave. If he cut it up for me, I would buy it in a second. He also sells free range turkeys for Thanksgiving and is taking orders as early as now. The first year (yes this will be my third year) he brought beef but not since. However, I pass Brookview Farm on the way and they sell beef also from their farm. I have been stopping there to get beef or eggs. As I said earlier, there was a Powatan farm selling beef. I have yet to cook what I bought. I am very excited to have these wonderful resources open again!

Dutch Gap

Last Saturday (April 16th), Todd and I went birdwatching at Dutch Gap near Henricus. I mostly bird observe and point out birds as they fly by or flutter in trees in case he misses them. He tells me what I am looking at if I don't know. He actually is the bird watcher. Just being around a bird watcher though you pick up information: e.g. bird calls. I know some and can name the bird. Some I know I know but can't quite guess the bird. Examples: I will hear a tufted titmouse saying "peter peter" or today a Eastern Pewee saying "pee a wee". (That one was sheer luck.) However, as often as I hear a Carolina Wren out my back door, I never can guess it when I am out in the parks.

I didn't get any pictures of birds last week. Instead, I have two pictures of frogs and what I believe are iris pseudacorus.

Cuth, huh.

Not a great photo...but look how many there were.

Step 1

Alright so the flooring is down. I now have to wait for the countertops to come...this depends on Dad coming up so, it may be awhile. I can't paint the kitchen until the countertops are in. I guess I could repaint the cabinets...that doesn't seem too fun though. When Dad comes, the new microwave will go in along with a new stove. I think that is it in the kitchen. Stove, microwave, countertops, paint. Yea, that's it (said sarcastically).

I think I may need to get rid of my "sky" walls in the bathroom that now also has this floor. I kind of knew that already but I was hoping it might look good together. This bathroom will get a new light fixture and mirror (also depending on Dad). Then a coat of paint (some shade not decided upon yet.

Before

I am in the process of doing some work on my house. New flooring, new counter tops, new appliances, new sinks, new light fixtures, painting. I must admit so far, I have only done one thing on my long list of things to do. However, soon, there will be one more thing complete. I am covering my very "me" (awful to keep clean) flooring in the kitchen with something more neutral. This is the one room that will get a very complete make over. First comes the floor. Then there will be new counter tops and new appliances. After that, there will be fresh paint on the walls and cabinets. It won't look like my house anymore. I had to share my very fun and very retro kitchen before it all disappears. I think it will be fun to share as the projects go along so expect a picture of the new floor sometime soon...with these yellow walls!

Another favorite bird

I believe I have only seen these birds in Florida but I KNOW I really like them. I think my fascination is due to their pink legs. These birds are called Black-necked Stilts. This picture is from our trip in January. I can't remember ever seeing this bird out of water...for all I know it may have yellow feet.

Cedar Waxwing

Recently (Easter day to be exact), Todd and I went to Deep Bottom Park in the eastern end of Henrico. Being a Henrico County employee, I thought I knew all the parks (and had visited them) however, I was wrong. Unless you fish or canoe, there isn't much there. That day as I arrived at Todd's house, I had my camera with me. He always wonders should he take his camera. It was an unknown park, would there be anything to see, etc. Since I was taking mine, he decided to take his. He would have been so upset if he hadn't. We discovered a large flock of Cedar Waxwings eating left over berries. These are really beautiful birds and I can't say I had ever noticed them until I started dating Todd. This is the second time we discovered them feasting. These are not great photos but they show that bright yellow tip of their tail and the mask they wear. I had a very poor photo that showed the red on the tips of their wings but it wasn't worth putting on here.

If you look closely, there are three feeding in this shot. You can also see the yellow on their stomach (is that the right bird terminology?)

Note from Cornell: The Cedar Waxwing is vulnerable to alcohol intoxication and death after eating fermented fruit.

A Definite Sign of Spring

As always these flowers make it open for Easter even if it is earlier than it will be for some two hundred years.

"The next time Easter will be this early (March 23) will be the year 2228 (220 years from now.). The last time, it was this early was 1913 (so if you're 95 or older, you are the only ones that were around for that!).
"The next it will be a day earlier, March 22, will be in the year 2285 (277 years from now). The last time it was on March 22 was 1818. So, no one alive today has or will ever see it any earlier than this year!"

Update

I've been told that people check my blog just so they know what I have been doing lately. I guess it appears that I haven't been doing anything for a couple of months. As most of you know, I started my new job in January. Last week (not the one we just finished), it really kicked my butt. This week, it was a minor tab to the posterior. There is so much to know, and sometimes, I just feel like an idiot. That has been where most of my energy goes. A year of upheaval in your job can just throw you some. I don't know how people go from job to job.
No trips for me since January. I started back to yoga (need to drop that 8lbs I put on). If I loose some or don't gain anymore, I can stay in my current clothes. There has been lots of beer drinking especially last Saturday. (Tell me why you book non-Irish bands for St. Patrick's Day.) I saw Tara and Jim recently (in February or late January I think). We went to Capital Ale House to sample some beer (notice a theme here).
All of you guys probably know too that we are planning a trip this year that will fulfill a lifelong dream. I will actually make it to Alaska...and just before I turn 40!
Today my plans are to do some yard work...its 11:30 and I haven't made it out there yet. Hmm, doesn't look promising. Also, I plan to go to Costen floors to look at flooring for my kitchen and bathroom. It is going to be really hard not to buy for my tastes, and instead buy nuetral in hopes it will appeal to some unknown individual.
That is what I have been doing lately.

South Beach

Back to our trip to Miami at the beginning of the year. While there, I really wanted to go to South Beach. Not for the celebrities, not for the restaurants, maybe the beach if would have been warmer, but I wanted to go for the Art Deco architecture. Yes, I am that big of a nerd. I enjoyed walking around (except when the wind blew which was about once a minute) and just looking at the buildings. Here are some of my favorites.

Sorry Hokie Fans.

The sad things is...I have many more photos. I may be the only one who cares. We didn't make it down there at night but we bet the neon would have been really "neat".

It is a juvenile Double Crested Cormorant

I never really trust my bird identification abilities and I was wrong. I thought this was a Great Cormorant not a Double Crested. However, Todd guided me to the right one.
We walked the Anhinga Trail while we were in the Everglades. These birds, Anhingas, an American Bittern, lots of herons, and some alligators could be seen around this trail. This is were we first met our English friends. Todd was trying to identify a Eastern Phoebe and they came up to us. We quickly saw a Great Egret (if I remember correctly) and a Common Yellowthroat while we were standing with them. I tell you birdwatching makes fast friends.


I zoomed in. My ISO was too high and that is why I have over-exposed areas on him. I forget how to use my camera between each trip and then I have about a two day learning curve. All my pictures from the first day are over exposed.

Is it real?

Todd and I traveled to Miami for the Orange Bowl last week. (Yes, Kansas beat Virginia Tech and I was colder there than when I was sitting in the pouring rain for the loss to Boston College). Anyway, we flew down on Tuesday so that we could do some sightseeing. Wednesday, we went to the Everglades for some bird watching but I found this guy (or girl) the most interesting. Other individuals had spread the word that there was a large american crocodile behind the marina (I believe this was the Flamingo Visitor Center). I never thought I would get this close to one. We arrived to a crowd of people and they were waving us over. As you looked down off the dock, you see this crocodile taking a shower. A young girl informed us that he had been on the opposite shore but had heard the water running when someone turned the spigot on. Supposedly he made a beeline here and then sat for the longest time just letting the water drip onto his face.


Picture from a small floating platform looking back towards the dock.



Taken off to the side from him.

Look straight down from the dock.

In Miami

We arrived late Tuesday. Some observations so far: Never rent from Alamo if you are going through the Ft. Lauderdale airport,Wal-mart is annoying everywhere, birdwatching makes new friends, Floridians think that 70 is cool and that 60 is chilly, and if a review about a hotel says they offer ear plugs then think twice.
Because of birdwatching we met the same couple three times yesterday. They were an older couple of London, England. We also met, very briefly, a couple who were actually younger than us. They looked to be in their twenties. Birdwatching tends to be an "older" thing.
I must admit that yesterday was cold but only because the wind was gusting.
Tonight is the game!