So here we are, all settled in. The idea of leaving makes me very sad. This small town in the middle of the mountains has stolen my heart.

For some reason, I am having a hard time with my words tonight, so let me share some pictures of our home here, and the town and trails. We rented a small house about a mile out the highway from town. It has a private yard, and even a salmon smoker that Jacob brought back to life.

Girdwood is small, and riding your bike is a great way to get around. The bike/foot path goes along the highway into town, and the slope is just enough to not be daunting, but to get the heart rate going. We scored a sweet ride at the Salvation Army, with a trailer that will ride 2 kids. We have been having fun taking turns using it, and are looking for another one, with another trailer, so we can ride all together.

There are a ton of kids here. Seems a baby boom occured at some point, and they are everywhere. The park downtown has a skate area for the older kids, and a sprawling playground for the little ones. The river area is where they have Forest Fair, which happens next weekend. We went down there for the Summer Solstice with some friends and had a really great time.

We have also taken a couple of really amazing hikes. The area surrounding is National Forest, and  Girdwood itself is actually a rainforest. The trails are inspiring and invigorating. Even in the rain (usually just a misty rain), the cool air makes it easy to push on where we might have stopped in the relentless TN heat.

So Alaska has proven to be the promised land that Jacob spoke of. We miss our Tennessee family and friends intensely though, and having heard of the heat wave going on right now, we wish you would all come up here and have a break from it all.
Maybe words will come better for me another night soon, but at least Grannie and Paw Paw have some pictures in the meantime. Much love going that way, we'll see you soon!