Musings before the Fall

August turned out pretty busy with comprehensive exams and a work trip to Portland, but didn't stop the necessary few last trips to enjoy the summer before it eases into winter. The chill is already in the air and the nights dark and starry again. Northern Lights on Friday were some of the best I've ever seen (see our friend Patrick's blog for some photos of them and the cranes that are congregating before heading south). Here are a few photos of the last weeks. A productive trip out into the hills to pick blueberries with Ben and Julie. You have to wonder if Ben has a red bucket for raspberries and and an orange one for salmon berries.





Yesterday, had a chance to catch up with Kyle and Julie (now back from their wedding and honeymoon in Africa), and another friend Adrian on a mellow float along the Chena River in Fairbanks. Kyle and Julie are enjoying the cleanliness of Fairbanks...which believe me is a telling story of Africa!



The paddle was a pleasant way to spend a Saturday afternoon, even with the Discovery paddle wheel churning past us during lunch. Even though it was now September 1st, the sun was hot keeping dogs in the shade and us relaxed and ready for ice cream at the finish.