Excitement for an upcoming vacation is sometimes overwhelming. This year, I finally checked off a bucket list item, visiting the place my father talked about so fondly for years. (The picture is of Denali.) He worked in Alaska surveying for the U.S. Geological Survey's Topographic Division for nine different seasons, as he shared, because during the harsh winters, no surveying was completed. The USGS also called him back in 1969 to help with the surveying of Prudhoe Bay before Exxon built its pipeline. As they lived in tents during this time, we were unable to accompany him.
Dad has been gone for twenty years now. I wish we could discuss all the special places and amazing landscapes of Alaska. I am thankful that he left me with many slides, photographs, and movies. He thrived when taking those pictures. But he enjoyed capturing people in his lens more than just the landscape. I remember as a child, I was not a happy camper when he pointed that lens in my direction. The primary reason was that I had sucked my thumb, resulting in a terrible overbite, which I did not want to show off.
Our vacation was fun yet exhausting. My husband and I believe that at each port we visit, we should take an excursion. Since we’re there, we should take a look around. And we did. Our good friends, Bob and Susan, joined us for the trip. Unfortunately, on our last excursion to Denali National Park, we somehow ended up with different tours, staying at different hotels, and taking the train at different times. Luckily, we ended up in Anchorage for the final night, and at the same hotel. We chose to take the red-eye flight home, and wouldn’t you know it, the flight was delayed due to storms in Texas, so we ended up leaving Anchorage at 11:30 p.m.
Even as excitement and anticipation peak, when you return home, you need a vacation from your vacation. Clothes to unpack, wash, and put away. Groceries to buy after being away for two weeks. Suitcases to trash – yes, one of the wheels on my large piece of luggage decided to completely tear away from my hardcover bag, causing me to pull it only from one side. Is that called “Murphy’s Law?” My next piece of luggage will have some warranty, but I loved the color purple.
Do you have a special trip planned this summer? The summer is passing fast, and school will be starting up before we know it. Enjoy your moments with loved ones, nature, or learning something new. As I moved frequently during my childhood, I always have suggestions to offer if you'd like to contact me.
Have fun making memories.
All my best,
Julie
Throw Kindness Around Like Confetti
Great time with you two! You forgot to mention that you saw the Northern Lights!