Volcano Erupts in Alaska!

This is not some far off exotic location – it’s right here in Alaska, just a hundred miles west of Homer. Altho’ the image is quite beautiful, in Anchorage, we wait to see which direction the winds are blowing, and hope they continue to go north instead of east northeast. Those of us who were here the last time Mt. Redoubt erupted, remember the ash that covered the land, streets, and our cars . . .. you don’t want to take a wet cloth to wipe your windshield, as it makes a gummy mess. It’s just an unpleasant situation, and this year is good, so far.

Besides that, we need to remind ourselves that this is spring, and the snow that continues to fall every few days is just an illusion. The stores are already selling seedlings, and have a good supply of outdoor plants, too … so, I’m ready.

In case you wonder how the Iditarod Races ended . . . Lance Mackey was a threepeat winner, in under 10 days, . . the thrill of victory was overshadowed by the drama on the trail . . . it’s all past history now, except that there are a few stragglers left on the trail, perhaps trying to get the red lantern.

Over the past week, we’ve had the circus come to town for a few days, and there is a home and garden show on now. This shoulder season is actually a good time to visit Anchorage, as it’s not so crowded, and there is still plenty of activity. When you do make your reservations to come visit, remember that travel insurance is pretty important, and you can read WHY BUY here.

Iditarod underway across Alaska!

This is the big week in Alaska, whether you’re a fan of the Iditarod Races or not. There are already several DQ’s along the route to Nome. I got to thinking, “I wonder if these racers can take out travel insurance.” I guess I’m personally involved, because I was recently licensed to get travel insurance anytime I traveled, usually by plane, or cruising, or even a road trip. Several times I’ve had to file, and made good use of this small investment when my bags were lost, or I missed a flight, or needed medical help. You really should put a few bucks into getting a policy your next trip to anywhere. You can get it online, right here.
In the meantime, keep cheering for your dogteam, and check back to see who the winner is. Later . . . vrc

Fur Rondy Addendum

Here’s the pictures of the horse decorated up like a moose — it was a super parade. . .. thanks to Cindy and her costume . . .

we didn’t have too many bands because of the cold weather cracking the reeds and mouth sticking to the metal mouthpieces. But a great day anyhow. Check back for news of the Iditarod coming up.

. .. and remember to take out travel insurance, that I’m now offering, since I’ve used it successfully myself and decided to get a license to sell it now – online, so it’s easy to get!!!!

Fur Rondy Reigns (Reins)

This is a pretty cool Rondy this year. The weather cooperated, and the snow fell gently for the parade. I don’t have pictures of that, but I need to get one of my good friend on her horse, soon. .. not too many bands because the instruments do freeze up. I was unable to actually attend, altho’ I was very closeby at the Pioneer Hall, where the Pioneers of Alaska traditionally serve a full, hot breakfast for a minimal cost. Saturday, we served over 800! Sunday not so many.
The dogsled races run for 3 days, and in addition to this there is a snow sculpture competition near the railroad depot. They also brought back the original fur auction this year. The usual arts and crafts continue thruout, and dogsled rides are available on the parkstrip. I don’t have any pictures of these, but hope you enjoy the picture of the running of the reindeer. Someone got the great idea from Pampalona, but we don’t have any bulls here, just other wildlife. This is a fairly new event, and really a kick in the pants.

The Senior Center has a first-class party, where old-timers, and long-timers, tell tales of the real Alaska. They also host several contests, and today I played in the cribbage tournament. It went on forever, so I didn’t wait for the finish, not that I was heading for a blue ribbon, or anything like that. But this is a fun week to be in Anchorage, and it will be topped off by the start of the Iditarod Races.

In addition to doing travel consulting, I’m now writing travel insurance, which is a really good idea in these uncertain times. When you book your next trip, with whomever, think of me wanting to write up the insurance part. Rest easy knowing you’re covered!