Monday, July 27, 2009
Sunday, July 26, 2009
The Calvin's Meet Sarah Palin
Sunday, July 26th proved to be an exciting day. After a morning at church, Mike and I headed off to the Governor’s Picnic at Pioneer Park. Today is historic as Sarah Palin resigned as governor and Sean Parnell would take over. As we arrived at Pioneer Park, we found that the crowds were way ahead of us. Driving through the crowded parking lot, we struggled to find an open space. With no parking available, we drove down a side street and parked along the road with several hundred other people.
As Mike and I walked to the park, we saw many Palin supporters and some protestors. In most cases, it was not hard to tell on which side people were. Once we got into the park, we heard that Sarah was serving hot dogs. Without thinking twice, we headed to the longest line and waited our turn to meet the Governor.
As Mike and I inched closer, I began snapping pictures. Sarah Palin was graciously handing out hot dogs to each person while thanking them their support. Once we got to the front of the line, security informed us that we would have to put our cameras away. So, I took my plate with a single bun, handed it to Sarah and she put a hot dog on it and said, “You know, have you thought about going into politics? Let’s talk after the ceremony and I can help you get started.” Okay, just kidding. She handed me my hot dog and said, “Thanks so much for coming out.” I smiled at her and walked down to get my bag of chips. I turned around and watched Mike get his hot dog from the Governor and then we were off to eat.
After eating our Sarah-dogs, we walked around to see what people were doing. We found a few people who had their Anti-Sarah signs and were ready, willing and chomping at the bit to talk with any reporter who would give them some time. We also saw several reporters with their camera crews seeking out any Anti-Sarah protestor to give them some time in the national spot light. Alright, that’s all I am going to say about the liberal, left-winged news media and the narrow-minded, self centered, loud-mouthed protestors. It gets my blood pressure up. So, let’s not talk about it anymore, okay? Enough already!
To alleviate my blood pressure, I found two women with a lot of sense. They were holding up “Thank you, Sarah!” signs. They were a breath of fresh air. After taking a quick picture, Mike and I decided to have a peaceful afternoon by driving home, putting up our feet and getting some much needed R&R, which is what I am doing as I am writing. After this, I think I will cuddle up with my husband and watch a good movie, “Earnest Goes to Camp.” Have a great weekend!
As Mike and I walked to the park, we saw many Palin supporters and some protestors. In most cases, it was not hard to tell on which side people were. Once we got into the park, we heard that Sarah was serving hot dogs. Without thinking twice, we headed to the longest line and waited our turn to meet the Governor.
As Mike and I inched closer, I began snapping pictures. Sarah Palin was graciously handing out hot dogs to each person while thanking them their support. Once we got to the front of the line, security informed us that we would have to put our cameras away. So, I took my plate with a single bun, handed it to Sarah and she put a hot dog on it and said, “You know, have you thought about going into politics? Let’s talk after the ceremony and I can help you get started.” Okay, just kidding. She handed me my hot dog and said, “Thanks so much for coming out.” I smiled at her and walked down to get my bag of chips. I turned around and watched Mike get his hot dog from the Governor and then we were off to eat.
After eating our Sarah-dogs, we walked around to see what people were doing. We found a few people who had their Anti-Sarah signs and were ready, willing and chomping at the bit to talk with any reporter who would give them some time. We also saw several reporters with their camera crews seeking out any Anti-Sarah protestor to give them some time in the national spot light. Alright, that’s all I am going to say about the liberal, left-winged news media and the narrow-minded, self centered, loud-mouthed protestors. It gets my blood pressure up. So, let’s not talk about it anymore, okay? Enough already!
To alleviate my blood pressure, I found two women with a lot of sense. They were holding up “Thank you, Sarah!” signs. They were a breath of fresh air. After taking a quick picture, Mike and I decided to have a peaceful afternoon by driving home, putting up our feet and getting some much needed R&R, which is what I am doing as I am writing. After this, I think I will cuddle up with my husband and watch a good movie, “Earnest Goes to Camp.” Have a great weekend!
Mike and Kristie pose with a Pro-Sarah sign.
Mike waits in line to meet the Governor.
Sarah Palin serves hot dogs to hungry Republicans and Democrats.
Sarah listens as people ramble on and on an on and on....
Sarah takes this hot dog job seriously!
The media and protestors stand in the hot sun just to see Sarah.
Two ladies are happy to show their support.
Mike stands in the shade before leaving Pioneer Park.Tuesday, July 21, 2009
A Salcha Kind of Sunday
The weekend of July 17th proved to be very uneventful. Mike and I spent Saturday at the Farmer’s Market smiling at people, encouraging them to smell our candles and closing the sale. After the smiling, smelling and selling, we headed off for a quick bite to eat. We decided to try the Alaska Roasting Company for some flatbread pizza. With full tummies, we headed off to visit a new church, Bethel Church. We had a great evening of praise and worship and watched the last video in a series by Andy Stanley. What an incredible evening at Bethel! However, it’s hard to mess up with Andy Stanley!
On Sunday, Mike and I slept in until 7:00 a.m. Feeling like we had wasted half the day, we got up and got ready to go on a little road adventure. We got out a map, closed our eyes and put our finger on a spot. This would be the place we would spend the day. With great excitement, we opened our eyes and found that we would spend the day in Russia. Since we couldn’t drive to Russia, (we can see it from our back yard, though), we decided to drive to Salcha.
Salcha is about 30 miles south of North Pole. Our destination was the Salcha River State Recreational Area. When we arrived, we saw a smattering of people in the river with their fishing poles. They were fishing for King Salmon. How exciting! We waited and watched for someone to reel in the “Big One.” Ten minutes into our watching, Mike and I gave up fish watching and walked along the river bank and found a nice secluded spot nestled in the rocks. We parked ourselves and began to skip rocks in the river. Mike would get four or five skips out of his. My fun was found in flicking tiny pebbles in the river. After about 45 minutes of skipping and flipping, I looked at Mike and said, “Honey, it’s Sunday afternoon and we are sitting at a river throwing rocks into it. Wow! We are really boring people.” He turned to me with the sun shining into his squinting eyes and said, “Yup” and went back to skipping rocks. I must admit, it was a very peaceful 45 minutes.
Realizing that we needed to head back to North Pole, Mike and I strolled along a wooded path and suddenly made an amazing discovery! What was this find that had us so incredibly elated??? It was fresh, wild raspberries! Mike ventured into the brush and began to pick them. He popped the first one in his mouth, closed his eyes and savored the taste. He picked another one and gave it to me. Forgetting that fresh fruit should be washed thoroughly, I popped it in and felt the sweet juices tickle my taste buds.
One raspberry would not be enough. I was suddenly feeling very greedy. We had to find more. We needed to find all the berries in the entire park. No one else could have them. They were mine! All mine! As we walked along, we ate the berries as fast as we could pick them. They were delicious! Once we had our fill of red, juicy, fresh Alaskan raspberries, we waddled to the truck, crawled in and enjoyed our drive back home.
On Sunday, Mike and I slept in until 7:00 a.m. Feeling like we had wasted half the day, we got up and got ready to go on a little road adventure. We got out a map, closed our eyes and put our finger on a spot. This would be the place we would spend the day. With great excitement, we opened our eyes and found that we would spend the day in Russia. Since we couldn’t drive to Russia, (we can see it from our back yard, though), we decided to drive to Salcha.
Salcha is about 30 miles south of North Pole. Our destination was the Salcha River State Recreational Area. When we arrived, we saw a smattering of people in the river with their fishing poles. They were fishing for King Salmon. How exciting! We waited and watched for someone to reel in the “Big One.” Ten minutes into our watching, Mike and I gave up fish watching and walked along the river bank and found a nice secluded spot nestled in the rocks. We parked ourselves and began to skip rocks in the river. Mike would get four or five skips out of his. My fun was found in flicking tiny pebbles in the river. After about 45 minutes of skipping and flipping, I looked at Mike and said, “Honey, it’s Sunday afternoon and we are sitting at a river throwing rocks into it. Wow! We are really boring people.” He turned to me with the sun shining into his squinting eyes and said, “Yup” and went back to skipping rocks. I must admit, it was a very peaceful 45 minutes.
Realizing that we needed to head back to North Pole, Mike and I strolled along a wooded path and suddenly made an amazing discovery! What was this find that had us so incredibly elated??? It was fresh, wild raspberries! Mike ventured into the brush and began to pick them. He popped the first one in his mouth, closed his eyes and savored the taste. He picked another one and gave it to me. Forgetting that fresh fruit should be washed thoroughly, I popped it in and felt the sweet juices tickle my taste buds.
One raspberry would not be enough. I was suddenly feeling very greedy. We had to find more. We needed to find all the berries in the entire park. No one else could have them. They were mine! All mine! As we walked along, we ate the berries as fast as we could pick them. They were delicious! Once we had our fill of red, juicy, fresh Alaskan raspberries, we waddled to the truck, crawled in and enjoyed our drive back home.
Mike contemplates applying for a fishing license while posing.
The log cabin on the river looks a bit dilapidated.
Mike watches for thorns while picking fresh raspberries.
Waiting to be picked, these raspberries did not last long.
Eat'em while they're fresh!Monday, July 13, 2009
July Update on AC, Abigail and Francie
Well, it's been a few weeks since I've given an update on our three precious cats. Each one is doing well. They have been loving the long summer days. Their time is filled with fun-filled activities. One of their favorites is nap time. They seek out that warm spot in the sun and fall asleep for hours. Another fun activity is eating. Regardless of the time of day, they are always ready for a snack. Today, we caught them, red-pawed, resting during the best time of the day.
Rusty, the Squirrel
The Calvin home has been blessed by a new addition. No, we did not get another cat. However, we have been adopted by a red squirrel that has decided to live in our backyard. We decided if this squirrel was going to be a semi-permanent member of the family, he would need a name. So, with as much originality as we could muster, we came up with a name. We call our little, fuzzy rodent Rusty. I wanted to share these pictures, as I'm sure my mom and Mike's parents will be glad to see their new little grand-squirrel!
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Sunday at Denali
After attending a Saturday evening church service, Mike and I awoke to a beautiful Sunday. The sun was shining. The temperature was in the 7o's. We had the whole day before us. We looked at each other and I said, "Let's go for a drive."
Mike easily agreed to taking a drive to Nenana (nee-nana). Nenana is about 55 miles south of Fairbanks. We packed a few snacks, grabbed the camera and headed out. After about an hour drive we arrived in the bustling city of Nenana, population 500. We were hungry and decided to find a place to eat. Now, Nenana was MUCH smaller than we had initially anticipated. There was one main street with just a few buildings.
Fortunately, there was one cafe opened. So, despite the looks of the outside, we decided to give it a try. After all, what was the worst that could happen? Maybe an episode of salmonella or e-coli? Really, how bad could that be? It would only last a day or two, right? Mike and I decided to order a 1/2 pound hamburger and we would split it. Hey, if one of us goes, we both go.
During our lunch, we realized that if our trip ended in Nenana, we sure wouldn't see much, except for the 144,000 acre wildfire burning 20 miles from the town. So, we spontaneously decided to drive down to Denali National Park, the home of Mt. McKinley, North America's tallest mountain.
The drive from Nenana to Denali is about one hour long. The road winds through beautiful terrain. As we drove into the park, the smoke from the Nenana fire was quite thick. We could not see Mt. McKinley. However, we drove 15 miles into the park to Savage River.
At Savage River, Mike and I strolled around. We found spectacular wildflowers. Mike skipped rocks across the water. Then, I had the most insane idea. Wouldn't it be fun to go wading in the river. I bent down and dipped my fingers in the water. Yow!!! It was definitely cold. I looked at Mike and said, "How cold do you think this water is?" He sweetly replied, "Oh, it can't be any colder than 40 to 45 degrees." The honey-dripped words were basically a challenge for me to follow through on my insane idea of wading.
I've heard the saying that pride goes before the fall and I believe that it is completely true. My pride got the better of me and I boastfully took off my shoes and socks determined to get in the glacier-chilled water. I smiled at my dear, sweet husband and slowly walked to the river's edge. I cautiously let the water flow over my right foot. I looked back at Mike and knew that there was no turning back. I turned my back to him, grimaced and boldly walked right into that river. After the initial shock of the frigid temperature, my feet began to ache. After about 1o seconds, they began to tingle. Okay, that was enough! It was time to let pride go and get the heck out of that river!
I climbed out and collapsed on the rocks. I felt like whining. I wanted to say, "Sugarbear, will you warm my feet? They hurt and it's soooo cold." However, I smiled and said, "Wow, that's was very invigorating. You should try it!" Not buying my version of the truth, (Before you think I fibbed, let me tell you that 40 degree water is very invigorating and I personally felt that he should have tried it) Mike declined to go toe-dipping in the Savage River.
After an hour of more exploring, Mike and I looked at our watches and decided we should head back to North Pole. We had a blast on our fun day trip. We hope to do many more like this before summer is over.
Mike overlooking the Tanana Valley.
A 144,000 acre wildfire is burning about 20 miles from Nenana.
Nenana, Alaska has a population of 500.
Denali National Park and Preserve welcomes Mike!
Kristie can't wait to get going. Enough of the pictures, already!
The road into the park winds through spruce-covered mountains.
Mike is feeling good after a visit to the outhouse.
Mike at Savage River.
Mike looks for bears up in the hills with his binoculars.
Mike skips rocks across the river.
The Savage River's temperature runs between 40 and 50 degrees.
Kristie bravely enters the frigid waters.
Kristie frantically climbs out of the cold water.
Kristie warms her bone-chilled feet on the banks of the Savage River.
Wildflowers at Denali
Hills around Savage River
Mike easily agreed to taking a drive to Nenana (nee-nana). Nenana is about 55 miles south of Fairbanks. We packed a few snacks, grabbed the camera and headed out. After about an hour drive we arrived in the bustling city of Nenana, population 500. We were hungry and decided to find a place to eat. Now, Nenana was MUCH smaller than we had initially anticipated. There was one main street with just a few buildings.
Fortunately, there was one cafe opened. So, despite the looks of the outside, we decided to give it a try. After all, what was the worst that could happen? Maybe an episode of salmonella or e-coli? Really, how bad could that be? It would only last a day or two, right? Mike and I decided to order a 1/2 pound hamburger and we would split it. Hey, if one of us goes, we both go.
During our lunch, we realized that if our trip ended in Nenana, we sure wouldn't see much, except for the 144,000 acre wildfire burning 20 miles from the town. So, we spontaneously decided to drive down to Denali National Park, the home of Mt. McKinley, North America's tallest mountain.
The drive from Nenana to Denali is about one hour long. The road winds through beautiful terrain. As we drove into the park, the smoke from the Nenana fire was quite thick. We could not see Mt. McKinley. However, we drove 15 miles into the park to Savage River.
At Savage River, Mike and I strolled around. We found spectacular wildflowers. Mike skipped rocks across the water. Then, I had the most insane idea. Wouldn't it be fun to go wading in the river. I bent down and dipped my fingers in the water. Yow!!! It was definitely cold. I looked at Mike and said, "How cold do you think this water is?" He sweetly replied, "Oh, it can't be any colder than 40 to 45 degrees." The honey-dripped words were basically a challenge for me to follow through on my insane idea of wading.
I've heard the saying that pride goes before the fall and I believe that it is completely true. My pride got the better of me and I boastfully took off my shoes and socks determined to get in the glacier-chilled water. I smiled at my dear, sweet husband and slowly walked to the river's edge. I cautiously let the water flow over my right foot. I looked back at Mike and knew that there was no turning back. I turned my back to him, grimaced and boldly walked right into that river. After the initial shock of the frigid temperature, my feet began to ache. After about 1o seconds, they began to tingle. Okay, that was enough! It was time to let pride go and get the heck out of that river!
I climbed out and collapsed on the rocks. I felt like whining. I wanted to say, "Sugarbear, will you warm my feet? They hurt and it's soooo cold." However, I smiled and said, "Wow, that's was very invigorating. You should try it!" Not buying my version of the truth, (Before you think I fibbed, let me tell you that 40 degree water is very invigorating and I personally felt that he should have tried it) Mike declined to go toe-dipping in the Savage River.
After an hour of more exploring, Mike and I looked at our watches and decided we should head back to North Pole. We had a blast on our fun day trip. We hope to do many more like this before summer is over.
Mike overlooking the Tanana Valley.
A 144,000 acre wildfire is burning about 20 miles from Nenana.
Nenana, Alaska has a population of 500.
Denali National Park and Preserve welcomes Mike!
Kristie can't wait to get going. Enough of the pictures, already!
The road into the park winds through spruce-covered mountains.
Mike is feeling good after a visit to the outhouse.
Mike at Savage River.
Mike looks for bears up in the hills with his binoculars.
Mike skips rocks across the river.
The Savage River's temperature runs between 40 and 50 degrees.
Kristie bravely enters the frigid waters.
Kristie frantically climbs out of the cold water.
Kristie warms her bone-chilled feet on the banks of the Savage River.Wildflowers at Denali
Hills around Savage River
Saturday, July 4, 2009
4th of July Weekend
Selling Candles at the Farmer's Market
Mike and I are in the midst of celebrating a long 4th of July weekend. Since Friday was the “unofficial” holiday, Mike and I decided to drive 90 miles north of North Pole to a place called Livengood (LIE-ven-good). The population of Livengood is 25. After filling the gas tank in our car, we headed out on our jaunt.
Driving north out of Fairbanks, we stopped at the Alyeska Pipeline. The Alyeska Pipeline runs from Prudoe Bay on Alaska’s North Slope down to Valdez. On average, the Pipeline carries 715,000 barrels of oil per day.
Mike and I left the Pipeline and stumbled upon Olnes City. Olnes City has a whopping population of 1. Yes, I said, one. We stopped and took a quick picture of the sign and looked for the one person who lives in Olnes City. Apparently, he or she was not home.
After a short stop, we drove farther north to Joy, Alaska. The ONLY thing to see or do in Joy is a visit to the Arctic Circle Trading Post. There is no electricity in Joy. The Trading Post and homes uses generators to generate electricity. There is no indoor plumbing. Therefore, the Men’s and Women’s outhouses are available to anyone who is in desperate need.
Farther up the road, we came to the Colorado Creek. We stopped to view the wildflowers and have a snack by the water. It was a beautiful area. After about 43 mosquito bites, we packed up and headed back on the road. We passed Livengood and arrived at the point where the paved road ends and the dirt road begins. We turned around and enjoyed the view coming from the other direction.
Today, Independence Day, Mike and I spent the day at the Tanana Valley Farmer’s Market selling candles. I may not have mentioned that Mike and I bought a candle company right after we moved here. If I didn't, Mike and I bought a candle company after we moved here. We named it Arctic Lights Candle Company. On Wednesday’s and Saturday’s, we sell our candles to locals and tourists. So far, it has been very successful and a lot of fun!
I hope everyone has a beautiful 4th of July. Stay safe and God bless!
Driving north out of Fairbanks, we stopped at the Alyeska Pipeline. The Alyeska Pipeline runs from Prudoe Bay on Alaska’s North Slope down to Valdez. On average, the Pipeline carries 715,000 barrels of oil per day.
Mike and I left the Pipeline and stumbled upon Olnes City. Olnes City has a whopping population of 1. Yes, I said, one. We stopped and took a quick picture of the sign and looked for the one person who lives in Olnes City. Apparently, he or she was not home.
After a short stop, we drove farther north to Joy, Alaska. The ONLY thing to see or do in Joy is a visit to the Arctic Circle Trading Post. There is no electricity in Joy. The Trading Post and homes uses generators to generate electricity. There is no indoor plumbing. Therefore, the Men’s and Women’s outhouses are available to anyone who is in desperate need.
Farther up the road, we came to the Colorado Creek. We stopped to view the wildflowers and have a snack by the water. It was a beautiful area. After about 43 mosquito bites, we packed up and headed back on the road. We passed Livengood and arrived at the point where the paved road ends and the dirt road begins. We turned around and enjoyed the view coming from the other direction.
Today, Independence Day, Mike and I spent the day at the Tanana Valley Farmer’s Market selling candles. I may not have mentioned that Mike and I bought a candle company right after we moved here. If I didn't, Mike and I bought a candle company after we moved here. We named it Arctic Lights Candle Company. On Wednesday’s and Saturday’s, we sell our candles to locals and tourists. So far, it has been very successful and a lot of fun!
I hope everyone has a beautiful 4th of July. Stay safe and God bless!
Mike organizes the candles while taking a few sniffs along the way!
Our special Christmas Holder Candles are a hit.Drive to Livengood, Alaska
Arctic Circle Trading Post
Mike "takes five" on the front porch of the Arctic Circle Trading Post.
The Ladies' Room is open to anyone who needs it.
The Men's Room is the nicest one in the area.
Olnes City has a population of 1 person.
While stopping at the Pipeline,
Arctic Circle Trading Post
Mike "takes five" on the front porch of the Arctic Circle Trading Post.
The Ladies' Room is open to anyone who needs it.
The Men's Room is the nicest one in the area.
Olnes City has a population of 1 person.
While stopping at the Pipeline, Mike finds that we are only 250 miles from Coldfoot, Alaska.
Kristie notices that North Pole is only 22 miles away.
The Alyeska Pipeline runs from North to South through parts of Fairbanks.
Mike reads the "Warning" label on the Pipeline.
Apparently, Mike should never crawl or walk on the Pipeline.
Alaska Flowers
Kristie notices that North Pole is only 22 miles away.
The Alyeska Pipeline runs from North to South through parts of Fairbanks.
Mike reads the "Warning" label on the Pipeline.
Apparently, Mike should never crawl or walk on the Pipeline.Otherwise, serious injury could occur.
Alaska Flowers
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