Hugo Harbinger (blog from Ketchikan Alaska)

The Aleutian Ballad

2009-05-04T17:04:00.001-08:00

A friend at work called me this morning about a tour boat that had a cruise ship cancellation so was offering locals a special price, we jumped at the chance and I am glad we did. The boat could have carried about 120+ but only had about a dozen passengers so we had an amazing trip. We saw seals, lots and lots of eagles, rat fish, king crab, tanner crab, snow crab, box crab, and octopus. Here are the pictures.

The crab pot on board

Becca holding a King Crab

Chet Holding a King Crab
Nat holding a King Crab
Nat holding a Box Cab
Nat holding a Tanner Crab (called Opilio Crab on the TV show the Deadliest Catch)

The next group of pictures is of eagles that they feed with herring to get them in close.

Mat Rats

2009-02-23T10:00:00.009-09:00

Nat is wrestling in a group called Mat Rats. Next year he will be wrestling for the middle school team. I'm impressed at how much he has learned and how much stronger he has become. You can tell he's about twice as long as the kids in his weight class. Hmmm, I wonder why?

Songs That Get Me Through

2009-02-09T12:16:00.001-09:00

I put a list of songs together that get me through the hard times. I could just go on and on for days listing songs and music, but then I would rather hear from you. What are the songs that help you. Let me know.

Church Snow Day

2008-12-28T10:11:00.006-09:00

Today an hour before church we received the call that church was canceld due to snow. So we went for a walk instead.

Looking down the road toward town, the kids school is at the bottom of the hill.

Nat and Becca on the road, our house is beyond the trees to the left.

Our Eagle Tree, the dark mass in the dead tree in the middle is the eagle's nest

Christmas Choir

2008-12-28T10:06:00.003-09:00

Here are pictures of the Christmas Choirs at Ketchikan Charter School. The top one is Nat's class and the Bottom is Becca's.

They both enjoy singing and miss the formal choir from the school in Utah.

Christmas Trip to Metlakatla

2008-12-28T10:02:00.004-09:00

On 13 Dec 08 our scout troop went on a trip to Metlakatla on the island of Annette which is an Indian reservation. The first night we camped out on point Davis which is the southern most part of the island. It was the first time since arriving in Alaska that I was able to sleep under the stars. Along with the clear night was a meteor shower so we also had the treat of a lot a shooting stars. before breakfast we explored abandoned WWII barracks, anti aircraft gun platforms (the guns are long gone) and watch towers. We spent the rest of the day doing service projects in town and Christmas caroling that night. The next day we had attended church which is a satellite of our ward (connects each week via teleconference). We went home on the Inter island ferry.

2008-12-22T18:29:00.002-09:00

PRICE PROTEST — The price of regular gasoline came down by a dollar at the Safeway service station during a demonstration against high gas prices on Saturday. About 30 people participated in the action, which was organized by Ken Horne. The demonstration began at 10 a.m. Saturday and continued for about two-and-a-half hours. Westside Service had lowered its price on regular unleaded fuel by Friday.Staff photo by Tom Miller

We went Christmas shopping on Saturday. When we stopped to put air in the tires, the price of regular gas was $3.50. When we came back into town from Walmart the price had come down a dollar to $2.50. I was impressed that the protest actually had some effect. I was also very grateful to these people, who stood out in very cold weather for a very good cause. Things are tough enough right now, without the gas stations gouging us. So, let's hear it for the freedom we have to make these kinds of protests.-Liz

Another List

2008-11-18T15:01:00.005-09:00

I saw this list on the Hugo's blog, so I thought I'd give it a try.
Boy, there are a lot of things I haven't done, but there are a few that I have.
This is Liz:

1. Started your own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a praying mantis
10. Sang a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning
17. Been to the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France.
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a Marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice (I have ridden in a gondola in the Venetian Hotel in Vegas)
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise (Does a two day ferry ride count?)
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught yourself a new language (I've tried anyway)
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelo’s David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance (I have received oxygen from an ambulance)
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing (But I will, in a few months)
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job (Does being layed off count?)
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House (Walked by in front of it)
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone’s life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee

The Beauty of the Rain

2008-11-04T13:00:00.003-09:00

You may notice the huge music player I placed at the top of the blog. Since it's the rainy season here in Ketchikan, I wanted to write a tribute about the rain, but I realized the music tells a much better story than I could. Let me know what your favorite "rainy" songs are.--Liz

A Couple of Happy Anniversaries

2008-10-17T07:53:00.003-08:00

As some of you may or may not know, the 19th is our Wedding Anniversary. We have been married for 14 happy years. Some people ask what the secret is, and to everyone I say, marry your best friend, and make the gospel and family your top priorities. Chet, I love you more and more every day, thank you for 14 years and I'm looking forward to a millenia of more.

In the title I said a couple of happy anniversaries. We have now lived in Ketchikan, Alaska for a year! We've had family ask if Ketchikan is everything we thought and hoped it would be. YES!, and more. This is where we're supposed to be. It feels like home. I'll visit other places, but this is where I want to live for the rest of my life. Chet feels the same way.

Autumn Swim -- And Poor Chet's Toe

2008-10-06T13:54:00.003-08:00

AUTUMN SWIM — A harbor seal swims among raindrops through the leaves of autumn in Ketchikan Creek Thursday. Staff photo by Hall Anderson

Nothing much different happening here except Chet broke his little toe. It was caught on something when he stubbed it and it was sticking out perpendicular to his other toes (Ouch). He put it back in place and he went to general priesthood meeting with Nat (Nat's first), and then he taught a cub scout leader training session for a few hours. Needless to say, it was quite swollen and painful when he got home. I've even had him popping Aleve. And you all know how hard it is to get Chet to take any medication. This morning the swelling had come down some, but it still clicks when he tries to move it. Of course, he went to work, but he promised to come home if became to painful.

Nat and Becca are settled in to school, and seem to be doing well. I'll have to post their pictures when we get them. We enjoyed general conference. We watched it on the internet. What a blessing that is.

We love and miss you all.--Liz

Where's Bob?

2008-09-29T07:48:00.003-08:00

Ketchikan Daily News
In Our Opinion

Where's Bob?

... on CNN (twice) and in the Los Angeles Times, Anchorage Daily News and many other national media and blog venues.

In fact, it's been hard not to find our City of Ketchikan mayor enjoying the national spotlight.
Ever since Republican presidential candidate John McCain announced his selection of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin as his vice-presidential running mate, the national media have beaten a path to Mayor Bob Weinstein's cell phone.

They want to know, of course, how Ketchikan views Palin in light of her positions and eventual quashing of the state's preferred alternative for the Gravina Access project.

As one of Ketchikan's two elected mayors, Weinstein is an appropriate spokesperson to provide an accurate, nuanced perspective that represents the Ketchikan community on the subject.
But that's not what Weinstein has delivered.

Instead, the mayor is leading a partisan attack for the National Democratic Party against Palin over the "Bridge to Nowhere" and now the "Road to Nowhere" on Gravina Island.

The mayor, a long-standing Democrat and a campaign operative for former Gov. Tony Knowles during Knowles' 2006 run against Palin, is working with Knowles directly in a Barack Obama campaign group called "Alaska Mythbusters" to damage the credibility of Gov. Palin.

As a citizen, Weinstein has the right to express his opinions. However, carrying the title of mayor to CNN or the L.A. Times is harmful if his purpose is partisan hackery instead of representing the community.

The media are contacting Weinstein because he's the mayor. He's certainly identified as the mayor in the resulting stories. Who, then, does the average reader or viewer believe Weinstein speaks for?

The "Bridge to Nowhere" portrayal as national laughingstock is being re-enforced by our mayor's effort to destroy Palin in large part through discrediting federal earmarks that would have built the project.

His jabs at Palin over the Gravina bridge and road claim she's been disingenuous on those issues. We feel the mayor is guilty of the same offense, since he continues to serve on a local community government that promotes support for both projects.
I
n that regard, pardon us if we don't thank Mayor Weinstein for joining the rest of the country in deriding Ketchikan as a national joke.

Mayor Weinstein should take this high-profile opportunity to defend Ketchikan, the town that's elected him mayor four times and placed confidence and trust in him.

Step up, Mayor Weinstein, and say it's not a "Bridge to Nowhere." Explain to CNN and the L.A. Times why a bridge is necessary. That's something we believe every past Ketchikan political and civic leader who began the bridge push more than 30 years ago would be doing right now.

Mayor Weinstein should remember he represents the City of Ketchikan whenever he's referred to by his title.

We hope he comes back to represent us soon.

Day of Rest

2008-09-15T20:23:00.000-08:00

KETCHIKAN DAILY NEWS
In Our Opinion

Day of rest
Sunday, for most of us, is a nice, restful day: a day to relax and get our minds and bodies ready for the week ahead.

For those in the tourism industry, though, Sunday is just another work day.

Until this past Sunday, that is.

Sept. 14, you see, was the first day in 17 weeks with no cruise ship visit to Ketchikan. Downtown was quiet and mellow. It was a harbinger of late fall and winter, when the sidewalks and streets are clear, rather than filled with awestruck (albeit often rainsoaked) visitors, so happy to find themselves in Alaska that they often forget to watch where they're wandering.

We're used to it, and do our best to watch out for tourists darting into traffic to get a better angle for a picture. But it sure is nice, that first time in fall that we're able to drive through downtown without stopping even once.

Those of us who live here year round tend to breathe a sigh of relief when we get downtown to ourselves again. But we know that, in a month or two, after we get used to the quiet and more than a little sick of the dark, that we'll start looking forward to the busy crowds of summer.

That cycle has become part of life in Ketchikan as much as the salmon that return each fall: Summer is busy, filled with traffic, newcomers, visitors and seasonal residents. Winter can be busy if we choose, with numerous local events planned to keep us from getting bored, but it also can be mellow when, like the bears, we curl up in our caves and "hibernate" with our books and/or television.

Both seasons here have their merits, which is one of many reasons Ketchikan is such a great place to call home, and to visit.

Bridging the Gaps

2008-09-06T12:22:00.003-08:00

This is a column in the Ketchikan Daily News called In Our Opinion--basically an editorial. I liked it, so I'm posting it for all of you who read our blog but do not get the Ketchikan Daily News.

Bridging the gaps
Gov. Sarah Palin, while in the national limelight, has the opportunity to deliver Alaska's message.

Alaska has a story to tell. We're Alaskans, enriched by our diversity of race and political beliefs, wealthy in land, natural resources, ingenuity and the determination to make not only this state, but the nation and the world, a better place for, yes, Alaskans, but also for fellow Americans and mankind, as a whole.

We develop our oil and gas, mine our minerals, manage our fisheries and wildlife as to be able to year in and year out reap record harvests, feeding our families here and elsewhere, and we are a young state with vim and vigor to build our infrastructure - roads and transportation, in particular. Bridges, specifically. Bridges to the future.

Palin can do her state a great service, a service no other Alaska governor has had the good fortune to be presented with in terms of a stage viewed by the world, by telling Alaska's story, explaining Alaska - a state about which relatively little seems to be known by other Americans in the Lower 48. And she can correct inaccurate perceptions.

Palin is blessed with a gift of speechmaking. She speaks clearly, passionately, with appropriate inflection and in a friendly manner. At least, on the latter point, that's the perception, unless you're standing opposite her, as are the Democrats and their standard bearer, presidential nominee Barack Obama and his vice presidential running mate, Joe Biden.

This week when she spoke after accepting the Republican nomination for vice president, she executed her speech well. But it wasn't a smooth ride for Alaskans. Palin hit a bump in the road.

Or, shall we say, bridge.

She said: "I told the Congress 'thanks, but no thanks,' for that Bridge to Nowhere. If our state wanted a bridge, we'd build it ourselves."

The governor of Alaska, of all people, didn't need to perpetuate the "Bridge to Nowhere" moniker that has become synonymous with Ketchikan and Alaska, failing to recognize that the community of Ketchikan, and Alaska by relation, doesn't appreciate being called "Nowhere."

We had thought it was time to let the moniker go even though it's unlikely. It's an exhausted topic from sea to shining sea, and often hammered on by Republican presidential candidate John McCain. McCain has repeated it consistently through the months leading up to the election of a new president.

We figured, perhaps naively, that after McCain selected Palin as his running mate, she would educate him about the bridge project. The Ketchikan bridge is just one of thousands of possible projects selected as the poster child for casting disdain on pork-barrel spending or earmarks.

We hope we're not being equally naive in hoping she will educate him about the opening of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to oil and gas development.

The truth of the matter is that earmarks aren't necessarily excess government spending. They are a means by which duly elected Congress members can respond to their constituents who want to build their communities. Earmarks help to level the playing field for small communities. If state legislatures decide where all the money goes, the lawmakers - most of whom are from the high population centers - will be inclined to take the money home.

For example, with transportation projects. All states receive federal tax dollars for transportation projects. It's a set amount. Whether a Congressional delegation tags (earmarks) part of that money for a specific project, such as a bridge, all of the tax money is received by the state. If it isn't tagged for a specific project, then the state decides where it will be spent. Once Congress removed the tag that allowed part of Alaska's federal transportation dollars to be spent on a bridge, the money could be spent anywhere else in the state. That's exactly what happened.

Palin knows that; as Wasilla mayor, she sought earmarks. Nothing wrong with that. But earmarks for Ketchikan are just as legitimate as they are for Wasilla, and other parts of the state and the nation. Even Arizona, Illinois and Delaware.

Palin supported the Ketchikan bridge during her gubernatorial campaign swings through town, but she also acknowledged it was expensive and newer, economical designs might be, not only possible, but more reasonable. After spinmeisters whipped the nation into a frenzy against the bridge, she axed the costly bridge design and promised to come up with an alternative for Ketchikan. Without an alternative, she said: "I'm not going to stand in the way of progress toward this project being funded."

Palin talked with Ketchikan about Alaska's national perception.

"People across the nation struggle with the idea of building a bridge because they've been under these misperceptions about the bridge and the purpose," Palin said in her first campaign visit to Ketchikan. She described the bridge as the Ketchikan area's potential for expansion and growth.

She also suggested during the gubernatorial campaign that "politics as usual" shouldn't be allowed to get in the way of the state's progress and that Alaska's interests should be defended on the national level.

"The infrastructure that's needed here in order for (Alaska) to get on the right road to self-sufficiency, we do need that cooperation with the federal government and we do need cooperation from the other 49 states to help us progress," she said.

Palin now has the stage to enlighten the under-informed. Instead of just quoting the spinmeisters with the wearisome catch phrase, she can tell America that a bridge - whether it's the two-span or another design (we like a one-span option) would be located in a community of 13,000 that has waited 30 years for a link to its airport, and additionally would serve all of the surrounding communities and the hundreds of thousands of visitors who travel through here annually.

Palin, in her speeches, often calls for a higher level of honesty in state government. And, now, in the federal government. That honesty begins with elected politicians telling the complete truth, whether it's what they want it to be or not; whether it elevates them to what they aspire, or not.

Palin also tells Alaskans to hold her accountable. That's what Alaskans - Republicans, Democrats and others - will do. We want the truth about Alaska coming out of her mouth, correcting misperceptions, as she speaks on the national stage. Because the end doesn't justify the means. It is imperative to take the high road at all times, to be deserving and to receive the trust needed to do the job when presented with it - in this case, the White House.

Otherwise, regardless of which politician is speaking, it's all white noise.

The Gravina Island Bridge (also known as The Bridge to Nowhere)

2008-09-04T15:18:00.004-08:00

With the pick of Alaska's Governor, Sarah Palin, as Republican John McCain's running mate, there has been some rehashing of the so-called Bridge to Nowhere. This label of the project aggravates me to no end, so I thought I would give the non-Alaskan readers of this blog a little education on the subject.

The Gravina Island Bridge (also known as The Bridge to Nowhere) was a proposed bridge to replace the ferry that currently connects Ketchikan, Alaska, to the Ketchikan International Airport on Gravina Island. The bridge was projected to cost $398 million. Members of the Alaskan congressional delegation, particularly Rep. Don Young and Sen. Ted Stevens, were the bridge's biggest advocates in Congress and helped push for federal funding. The project encountered fierce opposition outside of Alaska as a symbol of pork barrel spending and was widely labeled "the bridge to nowhere".

The project was canceled in 2007 by its supporter Alaska Governor Sarah Palin, who changed her view after Congress forced the funds to be used elsewhere:

"Ketchikan desires a better way to reach the airport, but the $398 million bridge is not the answer. Despite the work of our congressional delegation, we are about $329 million short of full funding for the bridge project, and it’s clear that Congress has little interest in spending any more money on a bridge between Ketchikan and Gravina Island. Much of the public’s attitude toward Alaska bridges is based on inaccurate portrayals of the projects here. But we need to focus on what we can do, rather than fight over what has happened."

The following is a quote from a response to a "letter to the editor" type article on www.sitnews.us by Robert Glenn from New York, NY from Jerilyn Lester, Ketchikan, AK.

"The people of Ketchikan think it was "the promised bridge." When they put our airport on another island we were promised a bridge. That was 30 years ago and we have not seen it and thanks to people like you who have bridges to everywhere we are probably not going to see it.
Thanks to Senator Stevens and our other representatives we do have a few dollars sent our way but you that live in the Lower 48 forget that we have needs too. Since we have not had the opportunity of 200 years to build our state structure , we as Alaskans are trying but we keep getting told that we don't need what we think we need.
When you come up to Ketchikan, you will see the need for the bridge. I would like to see your infrastructure get along without logging your forests or your bridges and tunnels that go from the islands in your state. I have lived there and I know what kind of bridges and tunnels you have so please don't tell us we don't need something when you have an over abundance of them or until you come here to live. "

Ward Lake: Beaver

2008-09-03T14:56:00.003-08:00

There are tons of pictures of bears, so I thought I would put one of a beaver up.

Wow, it's been awhile since our last post. We are completely moved out of our old house. Now we just have to go through a ton of boxes and put them away. Our old landlord told Chet that she ne ver had rats while she was living in that house. My response started with the word bull and ended with what she has given us since we moved here. At any rate, we are very glad to be out of that rat trap and free of her. We have a couple of loose ends to tie up, but are mostly there.

People have been asking us what we think of McCain's choice of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin as his running mate. I say that has been the first thing I've liked about him. Both Chet and I generally like her. Now Chet and I generally do not agree when it comes to politics. I'm a Libertarian and he is a Republican. But we both agree, that McCain's choice of Gov. Palin is a good one. Della and I were talking, and decided that McCain should run on the "lesser of two evils" platform.

Moving Day Part II

2008-08-16T14:34:00.002-08:00

We did have about 3 or 4 more men show up with a wonderful box truck, so the heaviest stuff is moved. We're exhausted, but we have to set things up so we have a place to sleep tonight. Blog more later.--Liz

Moving Day

2008-08-16T09:46:00.002-08:00

Today is moving day. The Elder's Quorum was supposed to be here at 9:00 am this morning, and only one guy showed up and he didn't have a truck, so we're doing the best we can. Supposedly, we'll have someone with a truck show up later today. Our telephone, cable, and internet won't be hooked up at the new place until Aug. 21st, so if you need to get a hold of us, use Chet's cell phone #. If you don't know that, then I'm sure you know someone who does, otherwise we probably don't hear from ya anyway! So there it is. Happy August. I hate moving!!!--Liz

Picking Berries

2008-07-26T09:46:00.002-08:00

Becca and I picked some berries in our yard the other day. They look yummy don't they.

Editorial - Ketchikan Daily News

2008-07-24T07:22:00.004-08:00

I usually shy away from political discussions in the blog. Politics is one thing that Chet and I have learned to agree to disagree on. I'm a registered Libertarian. I know that most of my extended family are Republican or at least vote that way. I'm including the editorial from our local paper. I hope you learn something.-Liz

Gotcha!
Do as I say; not as I do.
Republican presidential candidate Sen. John McCain, in a speech earlier this week, criticized his opponent, Democrat Barack Obama, for waiting until now - after six years in the U.S. Senate and two years into a national campaign - to visit the Middle East where American troops have been fighting for seven years.
McCain has made trips to Iraq and Afghanistan in his role as a U.S. senator. He has visited officials and the troops; he has prayed for two sons who serve in the armed forces, and he's supported the nation's effort to defeat the Taliban and other terrorists.
He told the crowd gathered to listen to his campaign speech that Obama formed an opinion against the U.S. effort in Iraq and Afghanistan before he went to see what it was all about.
Then McCain says - seriously and with a straight face - he makes it a practice to visit places before forming an opinion.
Gotcha.
Does anyone remember Sen. McCain visiting Ketchikan before he rejected the idea of a bridge from Revilla to Gravina islands? He has been hammering that idea in almost every campaign speech he makes.
There's also ANWR, and the opening of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to oil development. McCain opposes that, but has anyone seen candidate McCain step foot in Alaska or the refuge?
Before anyone gets the idea that only Republicans tend to exaggerate during a campaign, listen also to what Obama has to say.
Obama voted against sending the armed forces into the Middle East, and early in his campaign said he opposed the war. But the ground underneath him is shifting sand.
Obama now wants to investigate the situation, and as the possibility that he will become president and will in fact have to make a decision in regard to the war on terror, he's decided to more closely examine the "whys" and "why nots." It's becoming real, not just talk on a campaign trail.
He has stated he will fight the war on terror "with vigor," and he's indicated to his supporters, much to their chagrin, that he might have to soften his hard line against maintaining troops in Iraq and Afghanistan - especially after visiting in the Middle East.
Both candidates should visit Alaska next, and talk with us about our projects before taking hard stands against them. They just might learn that the projects will benefit the nation and its people.

Painted the Living Room

2008-07-19T20:22:00.003-08:00

RESTORING POLES — The Pole on the Point, which stood in front of the Totem Bight clan house, lays on the ground June 27 after it was lowered. The pole, which is more than 60 feet tall, is one of three that Alaska State Parks hopes to restore. See story, "Aging Totem Bight poles need work," in the Scene section, below. Staff photo by Hall Anderson

We painted the living room at the duplex, but we forgot to take a picture. This is a more interesting picture anyway. We saw this totem pole upright with Jerry and Carrie.

New Place to Live

2008-07-15T11:02:00.003-08:00

Chet was able to work out a deal with the owner of this duplex. We will paint the inside, and he will hold it for us until Sept. We have to give our current landlord 30 days notice from the 1st of Aug. Its a much smaller place (one less bedroom), but it is right by the kid's school, rec. center, and the city park. It does have a good size kitchen, we'll just have to figure out how to handle the kids sleeping situations. They've gotten used to having their own bedrooms. And who knew Nat was the clean one. He has done a good job!

Some Current Pictures

2008-07-10T16:53:00.004-08:00

Fast Sunday. Primary gave Nat a journal for graduating from primary. He was ordained a deacon after Fast & Testimony meeting. Both Chet & I bore our testimonies in the meeting. I don't do that very often, so that was an occasion.

Sorry, Slow Two Weeks Blogging

2008-06-26T12:20:00.009-08:00

As some of you know, Chet and Nat were away at Boy Scout Camp in Juneau for 9 days. It was the longest 9 days of my life. Here are some of the events: Becca went to play with the Tippetts kids and Sister Sandy Tippetts bought her an ice cream cone at McDonald's (I don't know if she has a lactose intolerance or what, I guess we will cut out dairy and see if it helps), and she was extremely sick all night and the next day, of course, Re-Max called and scheduled to show the house we are renting the next morning with about 12 hours notice, they are supposed to give us 24 hours notice, I called and asked to reschedule the appointment. The receptionist said she would call the other real estate agent and see if we could reschedule it for Friday, the next day. She didn't call me back, so you know, I thought that they couldn't do it, or whatever--I didn't know what to think. Apparently, Re-Max called the Landlord and told her some kind of story that I wouldn't let the people in to see the house--I had hurt myself cleaning this house, have broken my butt (literally--my tailbone) cleaning her house--have irritated my severely arthritic left knee (I think I have re-torn my cartilage and my kneecap is severely grinding on the bones in my leg). Anyway, apparently, they came by and walked the property while I was trying to take care of my sick daughter and keep the house immaculate. Our landlord calls me twice because she gets a choppy message on her answering machine about me "refusing them entry." This is not the first time I've been cussed out by her because of the same reason--this being the time a couple of months ago when I was on two different antibiotics for a bad urinary tract infection and had fallen in the kitchen and broken my tailbone. Anyway, back to this last Friday, June 20th. Meanwhile, the price of gas has gone up to $4.05 for regular unleaded and my van is almost empty and Friday is pay day and I have lots of errands to run and bills to pay. Becca has called the Tippetts and is going on a picnic with them up North on the island. I need to go get a couple of gallons of Gas so I can run my errands and pay my bills. I get just a little ways and my back driver's side tire blows out. (Here me yelling AHHHH! at this point and pounding on the steering wheel). I turn on my hazard lights, because I'm on the part of the road that has no place to pull to the side and no place to call and I could not find my cell phone. Anyway, I limp back to The Edgewater Bed and Breakfast to pull over. Luckily a member of the Church works there. I didn't know her name, but we recognized each other from the couple of times I've actually been at Church, and of course she knows who Chet is. I really really love my husband. Anyway she lets me call West Side Service, and wait and watch the boats out their windows, which lookout right on the bay, West Side Service is the auto garage that has the tow trucks to pick up us pathetic stranded motorists. Luckily, it was a beautiful clear summer day, and we did not have our usual horizontal rain. The tow truck driver said it would have been a lot longer to help me if we would have had the usual horizontal rain. He drives me up to the house so I can call Sister Tippetts and ask her to keep Becca until I was done being stranded and getting the tire replaced. It ended up being a very very expensive errand for a couple of gallons of gas. Sunday, the landlord calls me two more times to swear at me and tell me it is my fault that the real estate agent took the person to another property and they made an offer on the other property and it was my fault. Did I mention she hung up on me! Chet and Nat are on the ferry on their way home, and I can only talk to Chet when they are near a town and have cell phone signal. Nat got to watch a lot of movies on the ferry. Chet got to read his book, and receive tons and tons of calls from his very stressed crying wife who has a new hole in her stomach from all the stress and her left knee is swollen to twice the size of her "normal" metal knee. Its a good thing that talking to Chet is like me having an IV of Valium put in me. Meanwhile, Becca is still really sick (She is going through a major growing spurt), and she is watching her mother fall apart and she is being a great comfort. Did I mention that she received a black eye from the car antenna while waiting to be picked up by Sister Tippetts, which bled and freaked her mother out. I put a bandaid on it and it was fine--except for the really good shiner she has. Poppie would be proud. Anyway, I picked up Chet and Nat at 6:00 am Tuesday Morning. it was 31 hour ferry ride from Juneau to Ketchikan. Chet says that Seattle is a little further in distance but that the trip from Juneau takes about the same amount of time because of the extra stops. We got back to the house and cuddled for a few hours and then Chet played World of Warcraft in a nice clean house until the kids went to bed. Becca is still feeling seriously sick and I have to sing her to sleep, Chet says he remembers having similar problems sleeping caused by growth spurts. Nat is doing great He turns 12 in 3 days and recieved his First Class Scout rank at the last court of honor. He did so good at Scout Camp, He earned his art and archery merit badges. His score in archery was 191 when only 150 was required. He loved the compound bow and now wants one, the Instructor said that he couldn't miss. So we are seriously looking for another place to live because we shouldn't have to put up with this crap. We've talked to the Bishop and he have us a number of a person to call that is supposed to help us.

How's that for a post.

Pictures to come later.

READY FOR CELEBRATION

2008-06-03T11:17:00.002-08:00

READY FOR CELEBRATION — More than 100 members of the Cape Fox tribe who plan to attend the biennial Celebration in Juneau this year gathered for a group portrait recently at the Saxman Tribal House. Some of the families represented in the photograph are the Guthrie family, represented by Dorothy Utterburg's descendants; the Majors family, Elizabeth Denny and her descendants, Joe Williams Sr. family descendants, descendants of Alvina Martinez and the Shields family, Cecilia White's descendants, descendants of the DeWitt family, descendants of the Trout family and descendants of Martin Perez Sr. Members of other Ketchikan dance groups, as well as groups from outside areas are represented in the photo. Photo by Hall Anderson

A Convocation of Eagles

2008-05-22T11:50:00.003-08:00

A CONVOCATION OF EAGLES — Four eagles take a break from feeding in Tongass Narrows atop a metal piling structure along the waterfront on Monday. A fifth bird comes swooping in from the southwest. Staff photo by Tom Miller

Silverking Lodge

2008-05-19T11:21:00.008-08:00

This is a picture of the Silverking Fishing Lodge where Nat and Chet will be attending the middle school campout next week. I know, really looks rough doesn't it.

THOMAS BASIN

We are the walking wounded and sickly around here. We have all gone the rounds with some kind of nasty flu bug/cold thing. Last week Becca missed a day, and today Nat is staying home sick from school. Chet was really sick last week, even throwing up at work. Of course I've been sick too. Chet thinks he has a hernia, but refuses to even get it checked out until after scout camp at the end of June. What a great idea!-NOT. But that's Chet. Of course he didn't even take a sick day last week.

The last day of school for the kids is June 3rd. Nat has the 6th, 7th, & 8th grade camp next week. They have asked Chet to attend also. He is going to teach classes on building shelters and starting fires. I guess Becca and I will have some quality mother/daughter time, but I'm putting my foot down on any makeovers!

I haven't figured out what I'm going to do with the kids over the summer. That's the only thing that makes me want to live closer to town. That way I wouldn't have to drive them to town for everything. We live where we don't have to deal with all of the tourists. Downtown is incredibly busy this time of year. We are trying to get used to all the sunlight. Its hard to keep regular bedtimes when it is still very light outside.--Liz

A Big Day

2008-05-14T12:11:00.001-08:00

A BIG DAY — Brand new Berth IV, seen from the air at lower left, had its first ship docked Tuesday when the Norwegian Star moored there. Ships behind it are the Star Princess at Berth III, Mercury at Berth II and Zaandam at Berth I. The Spirit of Glacier Bay also visited on Tuesday, docking at Daly Float, rounding out the estimated one-day total of 7,904 cruise ship visitors. Staff photo by Tom Miller

Chet's Birthday

2008-05-13T17:19:00.002-08:00

Happy Birthday
Oh Happy Birthday
Hate and Envy in the Air
People Dying Everywhere
Still We Want to Wish You
Happy Birthday
One Step Closer to the Grave
Think of All the Food We'll Save
Still We Want to Wish You
Happy Birthday

Loves You Chestifur--Liz

Women's Murder Club

2008-05-09T13:44:00.002-08:00

I don't know if any of you watch the show on ABC called "Women's Murder Club," but it's a show I enjoy. I've read the books by James Patterson and was prepared to not like the show, but it is suprisingly good. The folks at MadTV did a parody that I'm posting. It's freaking hilarious. So enjoy.

Connell Lake

2008-05-07T13:20:00.003-08:00

Connell Lake

Front Page Photo by Justin Benner

I see places like this around here, and my breath is taken away by it's pristine beauty. AND then I think to myself what a great place to dump or discover a body. YES, I know something is wrong with me. I watch to many forensics shows.--Liz

Emerging From The Fog

2008-04-30T09:22:00.002-08:00

Emerging From The Fog

1st Ship of the Season, the Norwegian Star

Front Page Photo by Kimberly Skinner

First Cruise Ship

2008-04-28T13:28:00.002-08:00

The first cruise ship of the season arrives tomorrow. It should be interesting to see what its like to be invaded. Our nice quiet town is about to not be so quiet. I wish I could enjoy all the nice sunny days we've been having, but I feel better when it rains. Chet's been staying busy with scouting stuff and playing World of Warcraft. Rebecca is excited for her birthday on May 4th. Her request for a present from Chet was a one on one camping trip with him. I gave her dress shoes. I can't keep them in clothes that fit. They just grow up too fast.--Liz

Sitka Black Tailed Deer

2008-04-27T18:53:00.001-08:00

Sitka Black-tailed Deer Photographed in the Forest Park area. Front Page Photo by Jim Lewis

Choir Chops

2008-04-19T12:25:00.003-08:00

CHOIR CHOPS — Forrest Allred sings during a rehearsal of Ketchikan High School Concert Choir's piece, "He never failed me yet" Thursday afternoon at Kayhi auditorium as part of the Southeast Music Festival. The choir is directed by Trina Elliott with Sarah Corporon on piano. Staff photo by Hall Anderson

I wanted to include this picture from the Ketchikan Daily News because Forrest and his Dad, who is the first counselor in the Bishopric, came and helped us out when we first arrived in Ketchikan. They're awesome, so rock on Forrest!

Lunch Special

2008-04-16T12:27:00.002-08:00

LUNCH SPECIAL — An eagle takes guard duty on top of a piling near Taquan Air recently while another snacks on a seagull carcass.Staff photo by Hall Anderson

Humpback Whale

2008-04-08T12:22:00.001-08:00

This Humpback whale was photographed in the cove on the south end of Bugge Beach Sunday afternoon as it was feeding on a huge ball of herring.Front Page Photograph by Dena Minicucci

Deer Mountain and other things

2008-04-02T12:56:00.003-08:00

This is Deer Mountain. We live near the bottom of this beautiful mountain. Everyone is praying that the snow will melt soon, so it can power the generators at the power plant and we won't have to have rolling blackouts. That would suck.

The weather has been beautiful here lately, clear skys, sunny,--I feel better when it rains, but I guess we need the snow to melt at the top of the mountain--can't it do both.

I have been feeling pretty nasty lately--I fell in my kitchen and really bruised my tail bone pretty badly. I've found a good chiropractor, but the M.D. Doc I want to go to won't be taking new patients until June, so I'm still getting all my meds through Dr. Remington in Utah, which has been frustrating for both me and the pharmacist. I've been feeling kind of down because of this, but what can you do. A lot of members here keep their Docs in Washington. I don't know how they can afford the air fare.

The kids are doing the annual testing that all schools do this time of year, so no homework this week--yeah!! It's good to have them in school again. Spring break was not a break for me. Some of the stores that closed for the fall and winter are starting to open, so everyone is starting to get ready for tourist season. It will be interesting to see what that is like.

We love and miss everyone. We hope you and yours are doing well and that Heavenly Father blesses you all.--Liz

Northern Lights

2008-03-28T10:13:00.002-08:00

AURORA — The northern lights make an appearance over the Ketchikan area near Beaver Falls Wednesday night, which, combined with layers of fog, create a beautifully eerie scene. Photo by Mark Adams

Outing at Ward Lake

2008-03-21T11:17:00.005-08:00

We went out to Ward Lake last weekend. It's a few miles up in the mountains from Ketchikan, so suprisingly colder. We walked on the trail and had sandwiches. Beautiful place.

Think Pink

2008-03-14T12:09:00.002-08:00

THINK PINK — Pam Bushnell makes her rounds in downtown Ketchikan Thursday with her pink poodle, Milligan. Bushnell says her favorite color is pink and she dyed her dog's fur with cherry Kool Aid. Staff photo by Hall Anderson

Does this constitute dog abuse?

Spring has Sprung

2008-03-13T13:28:00.001-08:00

THE HAPPY GARDENER — Tom Konen, who works with the Ketchikan Gateway Borough Parks and Recreation Department, cleans the flower beds next to the downtown tunnel Wednesday, clearing around the blooming crocus. Mitch McAlpin, not pictured, was assisting Konen.Staff photo by Hall Anderson

White Killer Whale

2008-03-11T12:11:00.001-08:00

White killer whale swimming with its pod near the Aleutian IslandsPhoto credit: H. Fearnbach, NMML, NMFS permit 782-1719

Sorry, Slow Week Blogging

2008-03-08T13:55:00.003-09:00

I'm sorry, I know our blog readers want more entries. I've been sick, and Chet has been very busy with work and scouting. I usually post pictures of Ketchikan, but all this week the pictures in the paper have all been the high school basketball tournaments. I'm going to post a picture of my nephew playing basketball in Idaho instead.

Firth's Sean Williams (5) tries to get the ball away from West Side's David Bingham (23) during the Idaho State High School Boys Basketball Division 2A Championship basketball game at the Idaho Center in Nampa, Idaho Saturday afternoon March 1, 2008 . (AP Photo/Troy Mabe

David Bingham is my (Liz) nephew.

I Won!!!!

2008-02-22T16:41:00.003-09:00

Each morning the one of the local radio stations has a contest called the "Polka Music Challenge" where a song is played with an accordian. The first person to call in and identify the song wins a pair of fuzzy dice and a gift certificate to a local coffee shop. The song was "Photograph" by Ringo Starr. I hope they will let me get hot chocolate with my gift certificate instead of a double latte of double mocha.

Apparently "earning" you fuzzy dice is a right of passage here is Ketchikan. Quite a few people have made comments to the effect of "Your one of us now". I can see about ten pair of dice while sitting at my desk.

Paint Your Wagon

2008-02-19T22:38:00.002-09:00

Liz and I are watching "Paint Your Wagon". The songs have brought back memories of nights spent camping with my father. I remember my dad singing these songs in a visqueen shelter with the purring of a SVEA camp stove heating dinner in the background.

I hope my children have similar fond memories. Thanks Dad.

Buggie Beach at low tide.

2008-02-17T19:12:00.004-09:00

Saturday we all went for a hike on Buggie Beach. The name is from a Mr. Buggie. It is not overloaded with bugs. The hike was at low tide and we all had fun beach combing and looking in the tidal pools.

Can you find the fish, it is about 2 inches long but I think this type of rock fish will grow to be quite large.

Becca's Batch

2008-02-10T12:12:00.000-09:00

It was Becca's turn to make the cinnamon rolls. They were delicious. They canceled Church today. The kids even went outside to play a couple times, though they had to change out of their wet clothes each time, and the last time each one came in they had to take a hot bath to warm up. All of the school and community activities have been canceled this weekend because of the snow. I'm ready for them to go back to school on Monday. There better be school on Monday!

Coast Guard Buoys

2008-02-08T12:11:00.000-09:00

ORNAMENTS IN THE MESS — Looking like giant Christmas tree ornaments, these buoys, stored across the road from the U.S. Coast Guard base, take on a festive look during a snowstorm Thursday afternoon. The snow gave way to sun and blue sky temporarily later, but weather canceled all after-school activities in the public schools, including parent-teacher conferences at Kayhi, Revilla and Schoenbar schools. Bus routes also were altered. Staff photo by Hall Anderson

We pass these buoys any time we go anywhere on the island. The Coast Guard Base is pretty close to where we live, which I think is neat.

What a Mess

2008-02-07T14:25:00.000-09:00

TRAFFIC JAM — Ketchikan police officer Roger Retizo walks toward a van that went off the road into a snow berm Wednesday morning on Schoenbar Road near Fairy Chasm. At least three vehicles and a Head Start school bus lost control on the slippery road. See story, 'Slick streets jam traffic,' below. Staff photo by Hall Anderson

Nat's first cinnamon rolls

2008-02-04T22:42:00.000-09:00

Last night (Sunday) Nat made some cinnamon rolls. This morning he baked them. They were yummy.

We received about 6 inches of snow over night. Yesterday is snowed enough that I had to put the chains on to get up the hill into our subdivision. by lunch the snow had turned to rain and now a good portion of the snow is gone.

Liz says I was tagged

2008-01-31T22:17:00.000-09:00

Two Names You Go By:

Chet
Chester

Two Things You Are Wearing Right Now:

My wedding ring that originally belonged to my great grandfather Chester.
A blue Polo type shirt that I got for Christmas

Two things you Want (or have) in a Relationship:

A beautiful wife who loves me for exactly who I am, faults and all
A best friend who loves being in Alaska as much as I do

Two of Your Favorite Things to do:

Spend time with my wife and kids
Scouting

Two things you did last night:

Scouts
Practiced Guitar

Two people you Last Talked To:

Liz
Becca

Two Things You're doing tomorrow:

Work
Spend time with the family

Two Longest Car Rides:

Provo to Houston Texas
Provo to Ketchikan Alaska

Two Favorite Holidays:(As an adult)

Christmas
Thanks giving

Two Favorite Drinks:

Cranberry Juice
Country Time lemonade (hot or cold)

Two Things About Me you may not have known:

I enjoy cryptoquote puzzles
I am learning jazz guitar from my boss.

Two jobs I have had in my life:

Cook for Ricks College food Services
Ropes Course Facilitator

Two Movies I would watch over and over:

LOTR
Most any western

Two of my Favorite Foods:

Alaskan Halibut
Spicy lo mein

Two places I'd rather be right now:

Utah, Idaho, South Dakota, California - only to visit family
Virginia only to visit family

I choose to tag Von (someone please let him know)

Rainbird Hiking Trail

2008-01-31T15:08:00.000-09:00

RAINBIRD SNOW — Recent snowfalls have added to the beauty of Ketchikan's hiking trails, such as this stretch of the Rainbird Trail, with its snow-covered yellow cedar fence. Staff photo by Hall Anderson

Tagging

2008-01-28T18:35:00.000-09:00

I forgot to tag anyone when I answered my tag--so I tag Chet and Drew.

Saturday with the Scouts

2008-01-28T14:09:00.000-09:00

Saturday was my first outing here in Ketchikan as Scoutmaster. We went hiking and picked up a few geocaches on the way.

Here is a picture I took from the hill above the 3rd Ave. bypass. There are 4 islands shown. I am standing on Revilla (Revillagigedo) the next is Pennock, then the southern tip of Gravina, then off in the distance is Annette island which has the only Indian reservation in Alaska.

Here is Nat playing karate kid in Killer Whale park here in Ketchikan.

Here is the quote of the day:
"You aren't really old until nothing is fun enough to have you forget the weather"

Part of Tagged

2008-01-26T14:55:00.000-09:00

I forgot the longest car ride from Provo, Utah to Ketchikan, Alaska--duh.

Tagged

2008-01-26T14:19:00.000-09:00

Della tagged me, so I guess I need to answer these questions.
Here goes--
Two Names You Go By: 1. Mom 2. Lizzy (by Chet)
Two Things You Are Wearing Right Now: 1. Chet's blue linen shirt 2. my glasses
Two things you Want (or have) in a Relationship: 1. a person who loves me for exactly who I am, faults and all 2. someone who laughs at my twisted jokes
Two of Your Favorite Things to do: 1. Read a good book 2. Fishing
Two things you did last night: 1. Watched "Bones" on tv (good show) 2. Scifi Friday on the Scifi channel (I know, I'm such a nerd)
Two people you Last Talked To: 1. Chet 2. Carrie
Two Things You're doing tomorrow: 1. Going to Church (Maybe) 2. Cooking Sunday dinner
Two Longest Car Rides: 1. Weston, ID to Coeur D'Alene, ID on a crowded school bus 2. North Pole AK to Anchorage, AK and back again 11 hour drive both ways, yikes.
Two Favorite Holidays:(As an adult) 1. Christmas 2. I have to go with Della and say the first day of school.
Two Favorite Drinks: 1. Classic Coke 2.Lipton Raspberry white tea
Two Things About Me you may not have known: 1. I won awards for Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress in high school 2. I was Vice President of Law Society in College
Two jobs I have had in my life: 1. Library Asst. 2. Janitor
Two Movies I would watch over and over: 1. The Mummy 2. The Mummy Returns
Two of my Favorite Foods: 1. Spicy Thai food 2. Fresh Dungeness Crab, yum
Two places I'd rather be right now: 1. Utah-Idaho to visit family 2. Virginia to visit family
On a permanent basis I'm exactly where I want to be.

Snow Play

2008-01-25T19:21:00.000-09:00

The Homework Club

2008-01-22T08:00:00.000-09:00

Our kids started a new (for them) after school activity yesterday. It's called the Homework Club, and what it is, is that the kids stay an extra hour at school, and do their homework. There is a teacher there to help them and they get snacks, so they're happy about it. They catch the bus that the Arts & Sciences School kids take home. They get home an hour later than usual, but they have their homework done (for the most part), and ready to check when Dad gets home. Its a great thing for the school to do, and it saves on a bunch of wailing and gnashing of teeth here.

A Quote I Liked

2008-01-15T19:22:00.000-09:00

"If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music which he hears, however measured or far away. "– Henry David Thoreau, Walden (1854)

Saxman

2008-01-12T12:30:00.002-09:00

Back to School

2008-01-08T07:50:00.000-09:00

The kids started back to school yesterday. Which made yesterday kind of crazy, with homework and chores that went undone during Christmas break. For those of you Chet didn't call and tell, one of Chet's friends at work gave us a 1993 Ford Explorer. It needs a new transmission--Chet hasn't decided whether he'll have to time to replace it himself, or if he'll have a mechanic do it. My humble opinion is, since he has a bunch of scouting stuff to do, as well as Church things, and work--pay the extra money and have a mechanic do it. Besides that will put a warranty on the work. The weather pattern here is snow-rain, snow-rain. The kids had their first taste of halibut the other day. It has a hit, and they absolutely love any salmon that we get. Can't wait till we can go fishing and catch the fish ourselves.--Liz

More snow

2007-12-30T21:39:00.000-09:00

This is a video that we found on the camera, The voice is Becca.

Over all we had a wonderful Christmas. The only thing missing was family. Always before we spent at least part of the day with extended family. I guess that that is one drawback of living in paradise. To make up for it we invited the sister Missionaries over for breakfast. We miss all of you.

Here are two pics of the kids on Christmas morning that are worth sharing.

Becca showing off her new scarf, a gift from Nat.
Nat doing his happy dance with his Nintendo DS.

We hope you all have a wonderful new year

2007-12-25T07:21:00.000-09:00

Merry Christmas 2007

From Chet, Liz, Nat, Becca and Jackson.

Happy Solstice

2007-12-21T11:22:00.000-09:00

Happy Solstice!

Today is solstice from here on the days get longer. Today we will have 7 hours and 6 minutes of daylight. The days will keep getting longer until the 21 of June when we will have 17 hours and 28 minutes of light.

This picture was actually taken yesterday morning just outside the office here in Ketchikan.

For those of you who are more picky today is traditionally solstice the actually event is on the 22 this year.

Harbor Wildlife

2007-12-20T10:42:00.001-09:00

Here is an otter that was playing on the float outside the office.

While looking for a tool in my shop I found a box with the kitchen stuff. We had given up and ordered silverware which came last Thursday. Now we have a lot, luckily it matches.

I have been playing with sourdough. My friend Jim from work gave me some of his starter and his recipes for bread and pancakes. I made rolls for the ward Christmas potluck dinner, I was surprised how much and how fast the dough raised.

Holy Snowstorm, Batman

2007-12-19T18:32:00.000-09:00

The kids had a snow day today, much to my dismay. It wasn't suppossed to snow this much this early in the winter. The people at Chet's work says it never snows like this. Hopefully, the school busses will be able to run tomorrow, or I might have to commit kidicide. The snow keeps falling off the trees in clumps onto my roof---it sounds like Santa's reindeer on my house. We had to buy chains for the van, it was cheaper than studded tires--like $600 cheaper. Works for me. Christmas break officially starts Monday, but its supposed to snow all week, so we'll see. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.
The railing here is a 2x6, I do not think the snow on top could get any higher.

Ohhh--for a story on KPU--where Chet works go to www.sitnews.com . They also have humorous stories about Ketchikan and Alaska like this one about our sports fields Ball Field Story.

More Snow

2007-12-17T13:09:00.000-09:00

Here is a picture from my office of todays snow. I was told by co-workers that the next snow would likely be mid January but we awoke this morning to snow! I hope that it last longer this time.

Ketchikan Christmas Tree

2007-12-16T18:36:00.000-09:00

This is the Christmas tree in downtown Ketchikan. You can see the snow on the mountain tops in the background. We had a really good snow last Sunday, but it only lasted a day or so before it started to rain and everything turned to slush.

2007-12-06T14:57:00.000-09:00

Here is one of my favorite totem poles. I pass it each day on my ride to and from work. It is outside the local community colledge.

This is a picture of our home with Deer Mountain in the background. as you can see the snow has not yet moved far enough down the mountain to reach us. though it does get cold enough to snow now.

Behind our car is our cistern that is our water supply. It is 12 feet in diameter and 14 feet tall.

I recently fell twice on ice riding my bicycle to work so my wife has asked me to take the car until the studded snow tires for my bicycle arrive. I miss the ride to work and hope they arrive soon.

Settlers Cove Camp Out

2007-11-18T20:18:00.001-09:00

This weekend Nat and I went on a scout camp out. Nat, Shawn, the scoutmaster Bro. Inman and I were the only attendees. We had an enjoyable evening and a good night sleep as the tent had a wood burning stove. Here are some pictures from the hike the next morning.

A waterfall picture taken from a bridge.

Nat and Shawn at a river overlook.

The scoutmaster Bro Inman. It may not look like it but it can be dangerous to leave the trail.

Nat by a huge tree the branches were to high for me to know the species but I think it was a cedar by the bark.. I wonder what events in history this tree has been around for and how big will it grow to be?

The water here looks to be 3-6 inches deep but my walking stick easily pushed in 4 feet. There are a lot of muskeg bogs, not all are obvious.

Nat and I, standing on the coast overlooking the ocean. This spot would be underwater at high tide. It was a good experience for Nat and I can see the benefit of having a stove in your tent in this climate. Thank you Bro. Inman.

Another Beautiful Morning in Paradise

2007-11-08T09:42:00.000-09:00

Here is a picture taken from the bike path on the way to work.

The bike ride to work this morning was beautiful. The time change lets the camera capture it a little better. The ride is about 4.5 - 5 miles. On the way home the last quarter mile the elevation chnges from about 30 feet to 186 feet. I added an arrow pointing to the building where I work.

Halloween

2007-11-01T08:39:00.000-08:00

Our first month in Ketchikan (half month since we arrived on the 15) is now over and the rain total for the month was 32.51 inches.

Halloween was a lot of fun for the kids. We started just after 5:00 on Jackson Street which is closed off to all vehicle traffic for trick or treaters. Nat and Becca each received a Grocery bag full of candy by 6:00. We then walked to the Church for the Ward Party where the kids each received an second bag of candy. Liz and I also enjoyed the ward party, I participated in a chocolate donut eating contest (they did not tell us that the donuts were frozen). Liz enjoyed meeting and talking with the other members of the ward.

Nat and Becca in line for the Indoor Trick or Treat portion of the party

The (frozen) donut eating contest for adults

Liz and Becca enjoying the party (notice the church is a yellow cedar log building)

Office Window

2007-11-01T07:38:00.000-08:00

While in Utah I had a nice view of Timpanogos from my office window now I have a view of Gravina and pennock islands across the Tongas narrows channel.

Alaskan Changes

2007-10-27T10:44:00.000-08:00

We are starting to settle in here on birch circle. About half of the boxes are unpacked and the kids are enjoying the charter school. I am starting to get a handle on what my responsibilities are. Liz is doing much better here and is losing weight as well.

Here are some pictures from Totem Bight Park

This one is Liz, Nat and Becca standing in the doorway of a native chapter house.

The Ferry Ride

2007-10-22T19:40:00.000-08:00

Here are some pictures

Top:
Passing the narrows sometimes the land was quit close. (the starboard side of the ship, and inside is non smoking)

Middle:
Passing time during the trip was easy with all the beautiful scenery.

Bottom:
I was not fast enough to catch a shot of the dall porpoises.

Waiting for the ferry

2007-10-04T13:06:00.000-08:00

We are now in Bellingham WA waiting for the ferry tomorrow at 5:00 pm, But let's start at the beginning.

Day 1
Sunday evening after our goodbye dinner we drove 156 miles to Weston ID where we spent the night with Liz's mother.

Day 2
Monday with Rebecca and I in the Penske Truck and Nat and Liz in the Mini-van we drove 261 miles to Meridian ID, we were hoping for Hermiston OR but Liz had traveled as much as she could that day.

Day 3
Tuesday Nat and Becca traded vehicles and we drove 296 miles to the home of my cousin Quentin Graham. We enjoyed talking with his wife but he had to work so we only talked to him on the phone. He offered to let us stay but as Liz was feeling OK so we felt a need to get more miles behind us. We ended up driving an additional 107 Miles to Yakima WA.

Day 4
Wednesday Nat and Becca traded vehicles again and we drove 146 miles to the Alaska Marine Lines office in Seattle WA. Once there with help from Nat Becca and Liz, I Unloaded what turned out to be more than 10,000 pounds of household goods into a Cargo container (I am still sore). We then drove 38 miles to Monroe WA.

Day 5
After the long day on Wednesday we got a late start and once again Nat and Becca traded places and we drove 16 Miles to Everett WA where we returned the Penske Truck. We then continued with all of us in the Mini-van 62 miles to Bellingham WA.

That brings us up to date, Next post should be from Ketchikan Alaska.

Facts about Ketchikan

2007-09-24T21:34:00.000-08:00

Ketchikan (IPA: [ˈkɛ.tʃɪˌkæn]) is the fifth most populous city in the U.S. state of Alaska and the southeastern most sizable city in that state.
Ketchikan's economy is based upon tourism and fishing, and the city is known as the "Salmon Capital of the World." The Misty Fjords National Monument is one of the area's major attractions.
Ketchikan is named after Ketchikan Creek, which flows through the town. Ketchikan comes from the Tlingit name for the creek, Kitschk-hin, the meaning of which is unclear, it may mean "the river belonging to Kitschk." Other accounts claim it means "Thundering Wings of an Eagle." Ketchikan also has the world's largest collection of standing totem poles located at three major locations: Saxman Village, Totem Bight, and the Totem Heritage Center.

2007-09-15T12:32:00.000-08:00

We have to be in Bellingham Washington on Oct. 5th to get on the ferry. A week earlier than we planned, but that's how it goes.

I talked to my friend, who I went to College with, she is a real estate agent. If anyone can sell a house for what we need, It's her. I don't know about Chet, but I feel better turning over the selling of the house to her.

I'm in contact with a Real Estate agent in Ketchikan, and I think we have houseing pretty much set up. We just need to money from Chet's sick leave buy back and vacation buy back.

Emily came over and finished the fence. She's been such a help and blessing to us. Aurora is such a sweetheart. Carrie, Chuck, and Nancy thank you so much for your help.

We're going to try to get moved out this week, so we can clean, and paint the inside. The outside of the house looks gorgeous. At least I think so anyway.

Two Weeks Notice

2007-09-11T13:52:00.000-08:00

Chet gave Provo City his two weeks notice yesterday. Today they counter offered. Chet said he would talk to his wife, and his wife said NO. They've had how many years to give him a raise and changing his job classification! Actually Travis has been a great boss for Chet and he has been great to us as a family. But if Provo City doesn't change their salary policies, they will have no one of any quality left.

I've packed several boxes--most of them books. So I like books. My mother said to reread all of them and quit buying them--that's likely.

9-11, six years have gone by. Thank you to all of you who serve all of us, your country, without seeking recognition. I recognize you and thank you for my freedom. May you come home safe and whole.

Officially Official

2007-09-08T07:14:00.000-08:00

It's officially official. Ketchikan City Council voted on and passed Chet's hiring and his salary scale. Chet is aiming at being in Ketchikan in five weeks but we're working like it will be three. He's out buying more paint for the outside final coat (it always seems to take more than they say it will take). This next week We'll work on either packing, throwing things out, or giving them away so we can paint the inside of the house. If you know anyone that needs to buy a small house or needs to rent in the next month--let us know.

Making Progress

2007-09-03T19:51:00.001-08:00

Well, with Chet's parents help, we have painted the primer on the house. Chet will spray the finish coat on this next weekend. The fence is almost done with the primer, and I, probably with Emily's help, will finish painting it this week. I will also start working on the packing, so we can empty the rooms and paint and such. Wow, so much to do, but as my mother would say "it's cinch by the inch." Our neighbor mentioned that her son is interested in buying our house. It would save us a bunch of headaches if he could work out the financing. So, keep your fingers crossed. Proverbs 3:5-6

2007-08-25T07:10:00.000-08:00

So, now it's mostly official. We'll be moving to Ketchikan, Alaska. We won't know the exact time frame until after Sept. 6th. I'm guessing they will want Chet to report to work mid to late October. So many things to do, that I just don't know where to start.