Trip to Valdez

Since we found out we had two more weeks together than we expected, we took an impromptu trip to Valdez to go kayaking. On the way there we found an area where we could access the Trans-Alaska Pipeline and had fun playing on it. Our kayaking trip couldn't have been more perfect. We paddled about 3.5 miles to Gold Creek where we went for a little hike in the creek to see a waterfall. We saw Dall Porpoise, many varieties of sea ducks, eagles, seals, otters, and even two wolves. After our little hike we had a picnic on the gravel beach and then paddled back. Valdez is lovely!

Wayne came for a short visit

Wayne received a mission to fly to Elmendorf this week and so we were able to hang out with him on a couple of occasions. He first arrived on Wednesday and we went to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center so he could see the animals as well as enjoy the beautiful drive to Portage. He had to fly to Eglin the next day but returned Friday night and spent most of Saturday with us so we took him to see the sights of Anchorage and try the local cuisine. It was great that Ian got to see him before going to Iraq.