August

August was so busy. Maybe we should just assume that all the months are busy these days. Here’s some of the months happenings:

Ben started work up and we love his schedule. His work day ends in the early afternoon which has afforded us the opportunity for lots of exploring in our new area. This past weekend we were able to drive to Seward to camp for a night. And while the trip came with an incredibly stressful moment for me (think inconsolable screaming baby at 1 a.m. in the middle of a close quarters campground-yikes!), it was also lots of fun and really gorgeous. Seward is a common stop on Alaskan cruises and it makes sense why. While we were there, Ben did some fishing and caught 4 salmon. And yes, fresh caught Alaskan salmon is as delicious as it sounds.

I can’t remember if I’ve mentioned this but I have a cousin who lives right here in the same town as us, which is kind of random but has been totally awesome. My cousin and her family have gone far and above to show us around town and offer tips on Alaskan living. They’ve had us over every Sunday for dinner and we see them throughout the week as well. Wendy is wild for my cousin and her kids and I’m not joking when I say that within 20 minutes of Wendy waking up she’s asking to go to Michie’s house. We love, love, love being close to family.

I knew that Alaska would be chillier than the lower 48 but I don’t think I was quite ready for just how cold it’s been. It’s honestly feels like November weather-not August weather. And I definitely wasn’t ready for all the rain we’ve gotten. It’s recommended that people in Alaska take Vitamin D supplements during the winter since there’s so few daylight hours. I already started taking them because I could feel the cloudiness putting me in a bit of a funk. Luckily, the past week or so has been filled with sunshine, of which I’ve tried to take complete advantage since I know it’s limited!

August means birthdays for both Ben and I. This year we kept things very low key but still had fun going on hikes and hanging out with family. Ben requested pie on his birthday which always makes me incredibly nervous. Ben’s family is very particular about pies. They are pie people and seem to have been born with a gift for pastries. Because of that I avoid making pie so as not to mess everything up! But, I dare say, this year was a success! I made 4 pies for Ben’s birthday and I think they all turned out great.

We’ve loved all the outdoorsiness that Alaska has to offer and we’ve been trying to take advantage. We’ve been berry picking a couple of times and it is honestly one of my favorite things ever. It’s a little bit addicting! I’m hoping we can go at least a time or two more before berry season is over.