Fairbanks-The Beginning

 

We began our trip in Fairbanks; our lodge was on located on the Chena River and surrounded by wonderful flowers, river views and lots of bronze statues.

 

 

Our first morning we went on the Riverboat Discovery tour of the Chena River which ends at the Tanana River.  I began to understand why people fall in love with Alaska; we saw so many things that were new to us. 

 

You have to look closely at this photo-the wing of the Float/Seaplane looks like it is part of the Riverboat. We have been intrigued with Seaplanes for a long time and watching them on our favorite Alaska shows has deepened those feelings.

 

 

Need I say more!

 

In the past, I've never been one for Log houses or cabins but this one certainly changed my mind.

 

 

For all of my adult life, I have followed the Iditarod whenever it was televised. I watched and cheered on Susan Butcher as well as others. When we planned this trip, I was excited to see some dog sled compounds; I was even more excited when we took the Riverboat right past her husbands compound. Sadly, Susan lost her fight to Leukemia in 2006. Her husband, David Monson, demonstrated summer training and exercise of the dogs. Later, I met him and purchased a children's book titled "Granite", the story of Susan's lead dog. Susan and David wrote this book when she was hospitalized. I was very impressed by David and the cleanliness of the area where he keeps some of the dogs. We also met one of the younger gals who is training currently for the Iditarod.

 

David's team is pulling his ATV(without an engine)for their regular exercise.
After we saw David and his team, we went on to a replica of a Athabascan village; I learned so much about the different cultures and peoples.  I hope you've enjoyed part of our first day!
Blessings to you,
Noreen & Hunter