Around Fairbanks

Fairbanks is the second largest city in Alaska. Fort Wainwright and Eielson Air Force Base are close by. Every now and then we hear the planes fly over. Interesting fact – 30% of Alaskans are born in this state, the rest moved here.

Yesterday, we visited the Tanana Valley Farmers Market – apparently it is one of the oldest in Alaska and has been around since 1971.

We picked up Russian Kale, radish, basil and some other produce. Jeff made an awesome balsamic basil dressing for the salad, plus we also grilled the ribeye steaks we bought from Fred Meyer.. ya, Fred Meyer, who knew they have groceries.. Yes, that was a really yummy dinner. Nothing like fresh ingredients.

We visited Pioneer Park – It’s an interesting place, well, sort of. As the name implies, it’s about the pioneers of Alaska – the history, people, buildings, gold mining, clothing etc.

This morning we are off to Denali National Park and Preserve to see Denali, aka Mount McKinley, the highest peak in this continent. We have a 25% chance of seeing Denali, and a 90% chance of seeing a bear there. I hope we get to see Denali, it’s supposed to be pretty impressive. We plan to spend 4 nights there as there are lots to see and do. We hope to get some hiking in, everyone (except Jeff) is getting flabby.