Day one in Fairbanks

We landed to a valley full of smoke. They told us it has been that way most of the summer and is caused by fires started by lightning. Today, however, was clear and sunny, really beautiful and made for a great day of sightseeing on the river and at the gold mining dredge. We visited with Susan Butcher, the 4 or 5 time winner of the 1000 mile Iditerod dog sled race. She is one tough gal. Still raises and races sled dogs. We panned for gold and got the tremendous quantity of $12.52 worth! The day was more fun than either of us expected. We finished off with a salmon bake dinner and show about the history of Fairbanks.

Tomorrow morning early we head by train to the Denali National Park where we will spend the night then on to Anchorage. I will have to say that the idea of a guys' fishing trip to Alaska is more appealing than it was a couple of days ago.

Love, Dad