Beginning today, and for the next eight
days, I get to live one of my fantasies. How often can we say that? Since I was a young
adult, I have dreamed of some day visiting the state of Alaska, America's last frontier.
That dream will become reality later tonight when the plane I'm riding stretches down in
Anchorage. The purpose? To celebrate my parent's 50th wedding anniversary.
First I have to get there. Today will
be by air. From here to Atlanta, then on to Salt Lake City where I meet up with
my brother. We then take the final leg
together, farther north than I've ever been, into the land of the midnight sun. Bright
and early tomorrow morning the touring begins with a train to Whittier and a four day
cruise aboard a small ship in the Prince William Sound. This boat sleeps 78 and has an
advantage over the huge, lumbering cruise liners. It can explore the shallower waters,
meaning glaciers are touchable and fjords are navigable. We sail to Valdez and back.
Returning to Anchorage, we take
the Great Alaska Railroad into the heart of the state and the majestic
Denali National Park. Home to Mt. McKinley, the
tallest mountain in North America, this beautiful park truly exemplifies conservation
at its best, and some of the last remaining vestiges of pristine wilderness. Two full
days in the park include many activities, but I expect to be seeking a touch of supreme
quiet and solitude. Where better to get back in touch with my spirit?
The last day in Alaska takes us on
to Fairbanks for the journey back home. Another marathon day of flying returns me to
West Virginia on August 17th with a head full of memories and a suitcase full of dirty
laundry. Which do you think I'll be writing about the next time you see more Lucid
Confusion?
