Back Yard Hockey

Imagine being able to step outside and play hockey anytime you want (weather permitting of course). Second probably only to pond hockey, back yard hockey rinks are quite common in the upper Midwest and New England states (not to mention, Europe and Russia).  Many NHL players learned their love of the game from their early days playing outdoor hockey in their own back yard.  

Though we live just a stones throw from the Scotty Gomez Outdoor Ice Rink at Takishla Park, it is almost impossible for families with little kids to get any ice time with all the pick up games going on.  So, last year Steve built a little rink in our back yard.  This year's version( above) is twice as wide and has enough room for the whole family. Knowing Steve, I'm sure he is already drawing up schematics to use entire back yard next year.  I'd better remind him to save some room for the doggies to do their business.

It has been amazing watching Reyn get his "ice" legs under him.  Last year he didn't seem very interested but this year he and dad are on the ice at least two - three times a week.  Maybe it's because of the Calgary Flames Jersey Aunty Roxie got him last Christmas, or the fact that Steve streams the Flames & Canucks games live on the computer, or maybe it's because he now has a full complement of gear.  This year's addition of padded pants, elbow pads, and hockey gloves provides a lot of cushion in case of falls. Whatever it is, it sure makes for quality father-son bonding time.

Even Little Miss is getting into the action. Nalani loves being outside.  We had a bit of trouble getting her to keep her hat and gloves on at first.  If they weren't strapped on they were off within a minute of being outside.  She's finally figured out that she can stay outside longer if she keeps her fingers and head warm.

All about the Candy

Remember all the fun we used to have as kids going door to door - all dressed up in costumes - lugging around what seemed like a ton of candy.  Unfortunately times have changed and to make matters a little worse, we live in Alaska.  It's freezing in October.  Temperatures plunging into the single digits.  AND this year, a double whammy - NO TRICK-OR-TREAT-TOWN.  In spite of it all, the kids dressed up and had a blast passing out candy.  Reyn's mantra - "some for you, some for me"

Alaska State Fair

The forecast for this year's State Fair in the Valley was rainy and cold as usual.  So we packed up the kids and gear and made the trek to Palmer only to find clear skies and a little bit of sunshine and warmth.  With grandma Gail visiting from Hawaii, we had an extra set of hands and eyes to help keep an eye on the little ones.  After posing for a family photo with a yellow boa we cruised the various displays and headed toward the petting zoo and Alaska Grown Gigantic Vegetable Contest.  On the way, Steve and Reyn made a salmon painted t-shirt while Nalani and I checked out the cookies.

 

Summer Vacation in Hawaii

Last summer we took a couple of weeks vacation in Hawaii to celebrate Nalani's first birthday.   Boy was HOT!  But I have to admit the blue skies and sunshine were a nice change from the overcast and rain of June and July in Anchorage.  As always, it was great seeing everyone.  Reyn really enjoyed playing with his cousins and Nalani just soaked up the attention.  More importantly mommy got to eat at Rainbows and daddy got to have Kozo's sushi.  Mmmmmm!
 

Alaska Wildlife & Glacier Cruise

We took two trips to Seward this year to go whale watching.  One road trip in May with friends:  5 hour cruise, visit to Sea Life Center and a stop at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center on the way back.  The other, a train ride in June: 3 hour cruise with a stop at Fox island for dinner, and a visit to the Sea Life Center.  Both trips turned out to be a bust as far as seeing any whales, however we had a blast hanging out with friends and family.

WELCOME TO OUR BLOG

We're glad you've joined us on our journey through life - living in the "Last Frontier."  We know that everyone has busy lives of their own, however we do hope that you will come back and visit us when you have some more free time.  Deanne promises to try to keep the blog as up-to-date as possible.