tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74344469412361643602024-03-06T00:55:17.575-08:00Notes from the High CountryTall Tales from a Short ChickRanger Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11213553384273836624noreply@blogger.comBlogger220125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7434446941236164360.post-52106235977466773592012-04-09T16:50:00.002-07:002012-04-09T16:51:34.130-07:00Big Change!!!This blog is being moved to the following address:<br /><br />notesfromthehighcountry.wordpress.com<br /><br />Please update your links!Ranger Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11213553384273836624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7434446941236164360.post-4667374189416052052012-02-08T00:34:00.001-08:002012-02-08T00:53:16.011-08:00Answer to YourselfSometimes, it feels like the world is spinning out of control. This can be both good and bad. Perhaps your work just got noticed, which then lead to awards, promotions and offers. There's a lot to think about. On the other hand, perhaps someone you know just passed away, your car was hit and work is a struggle. Both strings of events are possible.<br /><br />It can be hard to think clearly in either situation. Keeping track of details, meeting deadlines and obligations, and oh, the paperwork. Yes, the paperwork. <br /><br />Inevitably, you get bogged down. You forget something or miss a deadline. Or perhaps you had to pass up a good opportunity because the hint of a great opportunity is nagging in the background. <br /><br />Something's got to give. Who do you ask for help or advice? How do you organize, get a grip and focus?<br /><br />Really, I feel like the answers to these questions might just be different for different people. And I'm not the type to rely solely on other people's input. Sure, I'll ask for advice, but I'm just as likely to ignore the advice and follow my gut instinct. <br /><br />I found myself today in a conversation with a friend about what the next 6-8 months holds for me. (This is a common conversation among NPS seasonal rangers.) I kept saying, "I don't know," over and over again. And sitting here, seven hours later, I still don't know. <br /><br />Perhaps this is part of my growing up. But I'm trying not to make assumptions about my thoughts and feelings. I'm trying to weigh my options in light of my own goals - goals for both the short term and long term. <br /><br />The key is that I need to answer to myself. I am the highest authority on myself - no matter what people around me may say - and I need to not let myself down. I need to NOT cave to peer pressure or outside influences. I need to do what's right for me. I need to pick something and do it well. I need to do a job in a manner such that I can be proud of what I've done.<br /><br />How do you answer to yourself?Ranger Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11213553384273836624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7434446941236164360.post-54776334428475029192012-02-02T16:38:00.000-08:002012-02-02T18:33:22.078-08:00The Great American OmmissionToday something hit me. There is someone in my life who is "very thorough". (Isn't that politically correct?) This person is almost detail-oriented to the point of fretting over details that never even existed in the first place. It's almost like this person needs something more to do with her/his time. But because of her/his status, s/he generally makes me feel like a failure, almost 100% of the time. I fret and worry as to why I didn't notice details - many of which probably don't matter at all, but seem to be a huge deal to said person. I am drained of my energy and ability to think. I need a good bit of time to recover from this person - a person who is always giving unsolicited advice and "help". Especially when I don't ask for or need help. This person is still there, advising away, like he or she has got all of the answers, as though I can't think for myself. When I'm alone again, I feel like my life comes back to me. <br /><br />It's those times, right after interacting with this person, that I'm truly grateful for some alone time. I need a few moments to clear my head, figure out if I'm ok, figure out what I'm thinking and what my next action should be, and generally relax.<br /><br />This week, I'm reading through the book, _Introvert Power_ by Laurie Helgoe, Copyright 2008 (Sourcebooks, Inc., Naperville, IL). I read through a section last night that finally meshed this morning with what I'd figured out about the interactions I mentioned earlier.<br /><br /><blockquote>Regardless of how dead we feel in a crowd, we cling to the uniquely American assumption that associating is good and necessary and solitude is suspect... Solitude is indeed "the great ommission in American life." We are told to have family values, to be a team player, to have a huge wireless network. More is better and there is never enough. How did we get so far away from our <em>selves</em>? (emphasis mine)</blockquote><br /><br />Is there something that should be left out of your life?Ranger Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11213553384273836624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7434446941236164360.post-23494356478549102252012-02-01T22:35:00.000-08:002012-02-02T18:35:42.171-08:00Introversion... A beginning of my journeyFor a year or so now, I've been dealing with the concept of introversion.<br /><br />Not that I just became an introvert. But because I work in a place where our staff takes personality tests to better understand ourselves, team dynamics, etc. On one test (for the life of me, I can't even remember which one), I'm a 1. Whatever that means.<br /><br />On the famous Meyers-Briggs test, I'm at INTJ. Along with, perhaps, a whopping 3% of the U.S. population.<br /><br />Earlier tonight, as I was reading (researching) about this introversion, a passage made me think back. More than a decade ago, I had a roommate. We'll call her Charlotte. Charlotte was very concerned about being social and hung out at the local college bar scene at least once a week. Now, Charlotte and I were in a lot of classes together, so we knew a lot of the same people. However, we did have very different personalities. Whereas I would go home and get to my homework (she often did too, she was a good student), whenever the opportunity presented, she would go out. I never did, at least to the bars where she went. I had friends and a job, but the bar scene made me cringe. I remember, distinctly, standing on the front porch of my house at the time, listening to Charlotte criticize me for being "anti-social". It was a problem that I was going to have to get over. If I was going to be a "normal" person, I was going to have to get over this "anti-social" habit and go out to the bars and drink with the "normal people".<br /><br />Fast forward to present day.<br /><br />Sitting at dinner a week or so ago, a friend used the word 'introvert' when referring to some tendency of mine. There you go. There's that word again. And a friend who I see maybe only 1-2 times per month thinks the Introversion sticks out like a sore thumb. I can't remember the exact context, but he wasn't making fun of me. Merely just pointing out that I wasn't telling him what I actually thought. I so wish I could remember during which part of our conversation this reference was made. Memory isn't my strong suit either. *sigh* I know this friend cares; he tends to take care of everyone around him, always fixing things, solving problems, etc. He's a generally nice person, very intuitive and thoughtful. I've learned through many conversations with him that, when he is serious, I should listen. (Remember the commercials in the 1970s and 1980s based on the phrase, "When E. F. Hutton talks, people listen"?)<br /><br />I really dislike labels and I try to not think in terms of them. But I think I'm going to have to figure out this label of mine. So here's a confession:<br /><br />When people walk by me in the street and say, "Hi, Jen. How are you doing?", I have no idea what to say back to them. My first instinct is to run away.Ranger Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11213553384273836624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7434446941236164360.post-35597032691810365952012-01-31T12:29:00.000-08:002012-01-31T16:47:11.050-08:00A Town of OneLast night, a coworker (we'll call her Coworker A) told me about a news story she'd seen recently. It was a about a little town (if you could call it that) here in Alaska with only one resident. This woman lived alone in the middle of nowhere. During our short summer and autumn, I guess she guides tourists, sportsmen and hunters from her tiny little outpost. But most of the year, she has no contact with the outside world.<br /><br />Another coworker, we'll call her Coworker B, pointed out that this woman is actually typical of many Alaskans, even as recently as only 50 years ago.<br /><br />Regardless of this woman's isolated residence and somewhat atypical livelihood, this woman was NOT the point Coworker A was getting at. Coworker A went on say something like, "Jen, think about how much knitting you could get done! Think about how much peace and quiet you could have!"<br /><br />I'm going to take the high road here and presume that Coworker A was meaning this, at least <span style="font-style:italic;">partly</span>, in jest. She was teasing me about the fact that I hole up in my cabin several nights a week with my knitting. (Well, ok, that's not entirely correct, but let's deal with one fallacy at a time.) She was teasing me that I'm such an introvert that I can't stand being around people and 9 months of complete isolation in the middle of nowhere must sound like Heaven on Earth.<br /><br />Dear God.<br /><br />You know what? Those kinds of assumptions just hurt. Instead of getting to know me, there is a value judgement place on my habits and hobbies, without thinking to look at the root of the behavior.<br /><br />Perhaps that root is the fact that I just can't stand being around people like <span style="font-style:italic;">Coworker A<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span> all of the time. But in such situations, is there a point to wasting my breath? Would she understand how I feel? What is the root of her behavior, in saying such a thing?<br /><br />Instead of arguing, I acted like I didn't understand what she was saying. I think I made my voice sound a bit hurt (like the inept mocking bothered me). And Coworker A swiftly changed and restated her question as, "Can you imagine not talking to another living being for 9 months of each year?"<br /><br />Holing up in my cabin is what I learned to do as a child. When the bully teased, I was sent to my room, as though it were my fault and their teasing was a direct result of MY behavior (which, of course, it wasn't, but that's another can of worms). I was never allowed to stand up for myself properly, and to this day, my only means of self-preservation is to go hide and take care of myself. <br /><br />I don't argue, I don't tease back, I just wish Coworker A a pleasant evening after work and I go home. I get about my business without so much as a wink as to why I do what I do. <br /><br />It's not for me to judge what she does with her time, because isn't this what got us into this mess in the first place? She's placing a value judgement on my hobbies, my interests and my lifestyle (at least as she views them).<br /><br />It's true that I do like certain things that she doesn't. I like classic literature. I like European period dramas and well-written mysteries. I like making things for myself, including my food and clothing.<br /><br />I'm not going to apologize for having skills for which she's jealous. <br /><br />If I were to judge her interests, I'd say: truthfully, Coworker A rehashes the same beat-to-death topics every day and quotes (and re-quotes and re-quotes) the same TV shows to no end. I don't always agree with her politics. Actually, the things she considers to be "politics" are things that I think are personal choices. And I don't need to watch most of her TV shows, because they were already quoted to me at work. I have tried to watch TV with her; I usually end up paying more attention to the knitting in my hand simply because it holds my interest more. <br /><br />I don't think I'll ever be able speak these thoughts to Coworker A, much less actually get her to understand me. She holds strong stereotypes about me that would be painful to break. (Probably more painful to me, due to the work involved.)<br /><br />I think Stephanie Pearl-McPhee* has summed up this quite well:<br /><blockquote><br />A whole lot of knitters (myself included) knit beause it makes us better people. Way better people. Without my knitting, I have a lot of trouble even being polite to great swathes of humanity, never mind being relaxed about it....<br /><br />Perhaps it's simple defensiveness. Perhaps the people who say, 'I don't have the time' are trying to justify their own slacker ways. Maybe, just maybe, when they see me using my time to churn something out while they're just sitting there, some little voice in the back of their head is judging them... 'We, um... we don't have time! We're too busy. Yeah, that's it.' With that, the idleness of a modern life is sanctified, most people slip back into compliant waiting and watching, saving time by buying what they need, confident that it would be a waste of time to make it, understanding that only grandmothers and terrifically boring people knit, and that if they knit like I did, sitting here [waiting in line] in a government office, watching each other's hair grow, it would be curtains for any sort of social life they may have hoped for themselves.</blockquote><br /><br />Yep. For me it's not defensiveness. It's self-defense. Coworker A would not want me to put down my knitting needles. She ought to be damn thankful that I knit.<br /><br />---<br /><br />*Quotes taken from _All Wound Up_ by Stephanie Pearl-McPhee, Copyright 2011. Published by Andrews McMeel Publishing, LLC. Kansas City, Missouri.Ranger Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11213553384273836624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7434446941236164360.post-1218358183567264452012-01-19T18:47:00.001-08:002012-01-20T19:13:20.857-08:00January? When?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-k99VMhSnhZDuEr1BBXFaCv3vJ0R11d6FojnbIPtWrGjxsj0a8BCTmyWECGxzAvKkZkXn7M0L-fyqj1ms5KJ-iTO-YtE4_cCF7Xzd-h8AONUPpg-9lu1MX7afN9tUI2TAjYoKNEpX3Co/s1600/IMG_0310.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-k99VMhSnhZDuEr1BBXFaCv3vJ0R11d6FojnbIPtWrGjxsj0a8BCTmyWECGxzAvKkZkXn7M0L-fyqj1ms5KJ-iTO-YtE4_cCF7Xzd-h8AONUPpg-9lu1MX7afN9tUI2TAjYoKNEpX3Co/s200/IMG_0310.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5699540780053288994" border="0"></a><br /><br />Those of you who know me well already know how I started off my year. I spent three days (January 1-3) glued to my little laptop computer and WIFI, here among the majestic mountains of Denali National Park and Preserve.<br /><br />I knew and worked with Margaret Anderson when I worked at Mount Rainier. In fact, she lived two buildings/houses over from me at headquarters. Of course, I was in the Division of Interpretation and she was a Law Enforcement Ranger, but she used to wave to me on her drive home.<br /><br />Despite this tragedy, or maybe because of it, I find myself thinking back through all of the accumulated HAPPY memories I have from our parks.<br /><br />Finding that last Harebell of the season on the Bierstadt Lake trail in Rocky Mountain National Park in late September, 2007, after returning to Colorado from a research field season in Alaska.<br /><br />Remembering all of the unique sounds that Yellowstone's landscape makes. (To me, Yellowstone is all about soundscapes. Everything builds up to Nature's Chorus there.)<br /><br />Or watching a black bear scrambling around on a log near the White River in Mount Rainier National Park in the spring of 2010.<br /><br />How about that time (those months?) I picked berries of many colors around the shores of Wonder Lake in Denali?<br /><br />The message, at least for me, is that I draw strength and inspiration through the rough times from over 30 years of happy memories in our magnificent National Parks.<br /><br />January, thus far, has been a month of reflection, conversation with friends, and a time to look back through the plethora of photos I've taken in our parks. I feel much more energized to tackle the coming summer season.Ranger Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11213553384273836624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7434446941236164360.post-39509577137116629962011-12-24T16:24:00.000-08:002011-12-24T16:43:51.208-08:00Festivus: Airing of GrievancesThis was supposed to happen last night. I'm always a day late and a dollar short. (How's that for a disappointment?!)<br /><br />Seriously, thanks to my friend Bill and his tribute to a semi-famed (at least in our circle of friends!) co-worker Juan, I've been thinking about finding the good in the bad.<br /><br />The one 'bad' that most people ask me about? <br /><br />"How can you stand the cold and dark up there?"<br /><br />First of all, it's NOT always dark up here. Erase that stereotype from your minds! Honestly, the short days and cold temperatures don't bother me THAT much. On my weekends, I do get out for walks, the pink hues on the mountains at twilight are beautiful, and, as long as I bundle up properly, I don't get too cold. <br /><br />Hopefully, that topic is killed. I get that question the most, and I want to break that stereotype forever.<br /><br />As for my real grievances? And can I find good in the subjects of such grievances?<br /><br />I'm constantly disappointed in the younger people in our society. Attitudes of entitlement, not taking their jobs seriously (especially those who are lucky enough to have employ), not working to their full potential, laziness, and apathy all make me want to scream.<br /><br />I'm one of those archaic idealistic workaholics who believes in several causes. And for those causes, I will work very hard. More and more, I find myself alone in that effort. Yet I know there are people out there who believe as me: I have a friend (she's about 5 years older than me) who gave up her citizenship in her home nation across the ocean to live in America and support a cause over here in the U.S. And I admire her very much. But I don't see that kind of spirit very often. I try to hold on tight to people like that.<br /><br />Another grievance? The judgemental hypocrites who tell me I'm wrong, or stupid, or missing the point somehow. I get judged very harshly, yet I know for a fact that I hold my tongue in some situations more than I ought. Some poeple may think they know my real opinions, but in fact, they don't. If they only knew what I was really thinking, they'd probably never speak to me again.<br /><br />Thankfully, I do have some very good examples to follow here too. I have some very wise friends who have taught me a lot about patience, thoughtfulness and tolerance. Tolerance without lowering your own personal standards.<br /><br />---<br /><br />Ok, so this wasn't remotely about Christmas, but my friend Bill gave me some good things to think about this morning. Even if he didn't know he did so. :) Thanks Bill!<br /><br />MERRY CHRISTMAS TO EVERYONE!Ranger Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11213553384273836624noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7434446941236164360.post-51588665064050795382011-12-07T23:10:00.000-08:002011-12-08T00:24:27.654-08:00Comfort Food for the SoulIt's the time of year. We can't help but think to favorite dishes or treats, maybe the smells of a Christmas meal, served the same way every year. Personally, I can't wait to get that care package of my mom's cookies. I look forward to her meringue cookies - the ones that the Stegmanns affectionately call "Nighty Nights" (because they 'bake' in a warmed oven as it cools overnight). Mom makes a batch of these meringues every year with white chocolate chips and orange rinds. The crunch of the meringue mixing with the softness of the white chocolate, with just a hint of orange to brighten the experience. YUM. I don't even try to make my own version of them. I just wait for mom's little bag of those cookies. <br /><br />I'm sure if you think about it for a few minutes, you'll come up with some tasty treat whose memory brings you comfort.<br /><br />Sometimes it's good to have these comforts around you. The world can throw some horrible punches our way. If you're like me, you'll retreat into your little world where you're comforted and everything is as it should be. <br /><br />Part of that safe world, as I mentioned in my last post, are the words, the quotes of others, that have reflected the thoughts and ideas I just couldn't seem to get out. They gave me a way to get out those thoughts I just had trouble expressing.<br /><br />Tonight, I found myself falling back on the one quote that I've said to myself, over and over for maybe the past 20 years. Some people, who really know me, won't be surprised that this is THE excerpt from Harold Bell Wright's <span style="font-style:italic;">The Shepherd of the Hills</span>, written more than a century ago:<br /><br /><blockquote>Here and there among men, there are those who pause in the hurried rush to listen to the call of a life that is more real. How often have we seen them... jostled and ridiculed by their fellows, pushed aside and forgotten as incompetent or unworthy. He who sees and hears too much is cursed for a dreamer, a fanatic, or a fool, by the mad mob, who, having eyes, see not, ears yet hear not, and refuse to understand.<br /><br />We build temples and churches, but will not worship in them; we hire spiritual advisers, but refuse to heed them; we buy bibles, but will not read them; believing in God, we do not fear Him; acknowledging Christ, we neither follow nor obey Him. Only when we can no longer strive in the battle for earthly honors or material wealth, do we turn to the unseen but more enduring things of life; and, with ears deafened by the din of selfish war and cruel violence, and eyes blinded by the glare of passing pomp and folly, we strive to hear and see the things we have so long refused to consider.</blockquote><br /><br />This set of truths does two things for me:<br /><br />1) It encourages me that I'm not alone in my perceived fight against the 'mad mob'. Sometimes, I just feel like I'm the only one who sees things as I see them. And often, I don't like what I see around me. I see problems that need fixing, yet I feel helpless - for one reason or another - to do anything, and I feel like all I can do is bide my time until I think I can do something. I really struggle to find the opportunity in the conundrum. <br /><br />2) It takes me back to a place where I felt a cozy comfort that only the hand-made world can offer. It was a place where masters displayed their works with pride and often took time to pass on a skill or idea to those willing to watch, listen and learn.<br /><br />As much as possible, I still try to surround and comfort myself with those things that are made slowly and deliberately. Made in a place where time, thought, skill, care and quality count. When people pause in that hurried rush, they might just find something more real.Ranger Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11213553384273836624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7434446941236164360.post-73719929336323922342011-12-01T21:12:00.000-08:002011-12-01T23:42:17.987-08:00Deep Ramblings... Quotes to PonderMore than 10 years ago, I used to write a weekly thought column. It was in a little weekly announcements bulletin for a student group on my college campus. You see, I've always been struck by the words - or lack thereof - of other people. So I took a quote I'd heard or thought a lot about that week and printed it up with a few of my own thoughts.<br /><br />I guess it was a way for me to work through and express some of my reflections and ideas in a seemingly chaotic world that wouldn't listen. One old saying goes, "The squeaky wheel gets the grease." Somehow, I never seemed to squeak enough. But when I wrote things down, those thoughts somehow got out.<br /><br />I still have the quote collection - and it is growing. But it's been a long time since I wrote this sort of 'column' regularly. I can't even seem to get a blog out regularly. Most of my thoughts get put into Microsoft Word documents, never to see the light of day.<br /><br />It's so much easier for me to just put my nose to the proverbial grindstone and crank out project, program, or task at work than to stop and make my voice really heard. <br /><br />Like every work place in the so-called 'grown-up world', I work in a VERY political environment, as many of you know. Plus, especially in this economic downturn, jobs are scarce and we must be very competitive - even for the most basic entry-level job.<br /><br /><blockquote><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">So it's better to BE ineffective than to SEEM ineffective?<br />-President Mackenzie Allen, <span style="font-style:italic;">Commander In Chief</span></span></blockquote><br /><br />Although the show <span style="font-style:italic;">Commander In Chief </span>lasted only one season, I've found some lines that grabbed me. I often wonder how effective or efficient I really am. That quote really seems applicable to my week right now. Many people at work seem to bring projects to me, so I guess I'm doing something right. And I try to prioritize work-related tasks/projects based on the greatest good for the greatest number. I want to streamline daily responsibilities without sacrificing the quality of my work. I want to make my work place run better. But it seems I always get hit in the face with the roadblocks of bureaucracy, seniority and politics. <br /><br />I'm trying to grow up and face these challenges head-on. I know many folks are very frustrated right now by our elected officials and government bureaucracy. No matter what your political beliefs may be, frustration exists on all sides, especially on the INside. But the parks, in my opinion, are worth fighting for. Our national history and treasures are an amazing collection from which we all can and should learn. Believe me when I say that I've had too many happy memories in our parks to not give 100% to my job and career, no matter the daily roadblocks. I'm striving to protect our national treasures and connect everyone within reach to these amazing places and artifacts.Ranger Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11213553384273836624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7434446941236164360.post-8563336311687023272011-10-19T22:07:00.000-07:002011-10-19T22:18:39.365-07:00Let It Snow!Right now, there is a pumpkin roasting in the oven in the kitchen. I love pumpkin; I actually have 2 more waiting to be roasted. And a butternut squash in line after those. <br /><br />Winter has started to show its face here at Denali. We have about 1.5" of snow right now. Such a small amount of snow? Well, we're not into the heart of winter yet - and the interior portions of Alaska are generally affected by a rain shadow caused by the Alaska mountain range (home to Denali, The High One).<br /><br />This means we have a beautiful layer of white finally covering the landscape.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ2Xqod5-Mbtb3bj_2qD3suq56cfhyO-9CHv3j3joh34l7HjuUwjCj2rDU5s9XOSWam7VmfEKD9OafQ_Vd5WI8lxHG9sziAkZ2ORaAyJejP1UdI2uTDGYmmBNSkSSpdIAODkh9q3BD40E/s1600/IMG_0233.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ2Xqod5-Mbtb3bj_2qD3suq56cfhyO-9CHv3j3joh34l7HjuUwjCj2rDU5s9XOSWam7VmfEKD9OafQ_Vd5WI8lxHG9sziAkZ2ORaAyJejP1UdI2uTDGYmmBNSkSSpdIAODkh9q3BD40E/s200/IMG_0233.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5665438388816551794" /></a><br /><br />Tonight, while the St. Louis Cardinals won Game 1 of the World Series (much to my delight), my mind was on wool yarn, pumpkins, cranberries and hot cocoa. Sometimes I get cold, but really, I love winter and so many things that I associate with winter. <br /><br />I'm also eager to break in the snowshoe trails here in Denali's front country. Let it snow!<br /><br />(And also let the CARDS crush Texas in the World Series!)Ranger Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11213553384273836624noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7434446941236164360.post-42597556074430470132011-10-02T20:34:00.000-07:002011-10-02T20:41:18.127-07:00Old FriendsUpon returning to Denali this week, one of my first tasks was to visit my old friends at the Kennels. Everyone seemed in good spirits and ready to say, "Hello!"<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCNkIcxAmXwVref-8wRmbEvqebIyY90fag8N622vYnq3AnMDUXRJhHujs2qbF8hLz0IJriY8G9-TU4b5E4DuEOre0RLhI3yw2odakOHZzXoPmgHMmCc2qeYGZQcTtKmKBIwNT5KXXTzUU/s1600/IMG_0195.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCNkIcxAmXwVref-8wRmbEvqebIyY90fag8N622vYnq3AnMDUXRJhHujs2qbF8hLz0IJriY8G9-TU4b5E4DuEOre0RLhI3yw2odakOHZzXoPmgHMmCc2qeYGZQcTtKmKBIwNT5KXXTzUU/s200/IMG_0195.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5659104720122632130" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Chinook wanted to go for walk again. But it was too close to dinner time. ;)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTlt-E8vSLFscQAWKSQoquo7EpTHMBcoB_YjmwMTADKkHigheYMZwhocADqymAIOsKIQ7Hfwx1zlEKp5UH47NLwYaBbkshM5nYHIXmmEymYn9dQmm6BvwfIOTfb9tn37upPR7erDH-1_A/s1600/IMG_0188.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTlt-E8vSLFscQAWKSQoquo7EpTHMBcoB_YjmwMTADKkHigheYMZwhocADqymAIOsKIQ7Hfwx1zlEKp5UH47NLwYaBbkshM5nYHIXmmEymYn9dQmm6BvwfIOTfb9tn37upPR7erDH-1_A/s200/IMG_0188.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5659104729070680114" border="0" /></a><br /><br />And look at Sylvie! She's all grown up and ready to pose. But one step closer and she was ready to give doggie kisses. She's one of the quietest dogs in the entire kennel, but her tail is always communicating her eagerness to visit.Ranger Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11213553384273836624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7434446941236164360.post-60974972932655560642011-09-29T22:27:00.000-07:002011-10-02T19:06:43.161-07:00Random Thursday1) Well, I'm back at C-camp for the winter. Today I did a bit of running around, a few errands and lots of moving bags and boxes.<br /><br />2) I'm not done with the moving of boxes. Some are still across the road in a friend's cabin.<br /><br />3) I have to finish moving tomorrow or I'll really feel lazy about all of this.<br /><br />4) What I really want to do tomorrow is take a walk over to the kennels and see the pups and Sylvie for a while.<br /><br />5) I know you want to see more pictures of Sylvie. I've missed her while working out at Wonder Lake this summer! Pictures will be forth-coming.<br /><br />6) Speaking of pictures, the WIFI at C-camp seems much faster now than it was last winter. This could be a problem as I attempt to get things done while catching up on shows on Hulu.<br /><br />7) I really have a lot of things to do and projects to complete. It's going to be a mad knitting factory in this cabin in the coming months.<br /><br />8) So much yarn, so little time.<br /><br />9) And now I want to knit myself a Christmas sweater.<br /><br />10) I'm going to bed before I come up with any more crazy schemes to lengthen my To Do list(s)...Ranger Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11213553384273836624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7434446941236164360.post-90311319207093537282011-09-27T12:03:00.000-07:002011-09-27T12:41:18.617-07:00[Not Quite] Back From The Land Of CrazyWhere have I been the last six (six?!) months?<br /><br />Lots of places.<br /><br />We played in the snow with the doggies until late spring.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC6XN5UjFWYpREyvmkA4KGkq-998-r-843HPUjhTMFWxeszSfNB4tYinG699_cV_3fKrMox82BBGg_MxDSzyLHpbieymEzjkWu4R_xTWeGmeDie1ODHN9_6gTgjq9YlXtRz4dSKVEgCd4/s1600/IMG_7829.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC6XN5UjFWYpREyvmkA4KGkq-998-r-843HPUjhTMFWxeszSfNB4tYinG699_cV_3fKrMox82BBGg_MxDSzyLHpbieymEzjkWu4R_xTWeGmeDie1ODHN9_6gTgjq9YlXtRz4dSKVEgCd4/s200/IMG_7829.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657122444605801170" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Then Denali's west district rangers moved to the Toklat road camp.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8cblmF7zRPX67qoXo0JhXfXYVJs-MbAhte-_i0J1geXieTdLXk65uumMd_8ARnGt5h84eaXAs4a5qt4NUMxMnMjDULu1H7KmC3S1ji91dxZqjrUlApWY3Vg5T8JKszHxpdzR7qVN2aT4/s1600/IMG_7925.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8cblmF7zRPX67qoXo0JhXfXYVJs-MbAhte-_i0J1geXieTdLXk65uumMd_8ARnGt5h84eaXAs4a5qt4NUMxMnMjDULu1H7KmC3S1ji91dxZqjrUlApWY3Vg5T8JKszHxpdzR7qVN2aT4/s200/IMG_7925.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657122441046483602" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Then I finally moved to Wonder Lake.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZwZoAfQS4v-1aJUcT0v6rlUHiMOc6rwQ649w_fBi7Jd4MWYc2l8cXw5OoEUZZDtK-mc-mIMxqSIeN9h74-KLVn0i3Wj7mVrlItgWg1QWLbd5M7lBkXhL3hdMax7AT5cgwaDwt9BMHcLI/s1600/IMG_9965.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZwZoAfQS4v-1aJUcT0v6rlUHiMOc6rwQ649w_fBi7Jd4MWYc2l8cXw5OoEUZZDtK-mc-mIMxqSIeN9h74-KLVn0i3Wj7mVrlItgWg1QWLbd5M7lBkXhL3hdMax7AT5cgwaDwt9BMHcLI/s200/IMG_9965.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657124602877290834" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I worked out at Wonder Lake from June through September.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpewRWaJ0g4V_X0BkThTgtysCMLddKNW2FLtcT7Xm6u_eyPqUSaJGlgNpBNKfoLZidsCQJRJu5Ag4IYJd-GeYbE5j7DR1oAb0Im1vpI5Or2mjNzNBGjASE5jwWOl4JYCvFAy0_TzVGfAU/s1600/IMG_9910.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpewRWaJ0g4V_X0BkThTgtysCMLddKNW2FLtcT7Xm6u_eyPqUSaJGlgNpBNKfoLZidsCQJRJu5Ag4IYJd-GeYbE5j7DR1oAb0Im1vpI5Or2mjNzNBGjASE5jwWOl4JYCvFAy0_TzVGfAU/s200/IMG_9910.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657124597397396370" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Then I moved back to C-camp in order to get ready for the winter.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">(I don't have pictures of this yet, but I'll be in the same cabin as last winter, so look at those pictures. This year, there's more construction equipment and noise, so last year's pictures might be better.)</span><br /><br />Then I flew to St. Louis for my brother's wedding.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC-ZYsCfVg9xSdSYpv7lAd5PJgHSoqGCKG5AMSEpzwvT6Je8Ycjte1G6ZVKIlc4B6CP3o-0XlG26IFD7UTBrH5GfN1EHefqG0HMIUYbxE6lsD6q_jg70MIB5xdTr3GdDQaFVacU53hemQ/s1600/MAwedding.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC-ZYsCfVg9xSdSYpv7lAd5PJgHSoqGCKG5AMSEpzwvT6Je8Ycjte1G6ZVKIlc4B6CP3o-0XlG26IFD7UTBrH5GfN1EHefqG0HMIUYbxE6lsD6q_jg70MIB5xdTr3GdDQaFVacU53hemQ/s200/MAwedding.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657122454517405730" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Right now, I'm sitting in the Starbucks at Lambert Field (STL International Airport) waiting for my flight to Seattle, on my way back to Denali. This trip to St. Louis (STL) has been a whirlwind, with a busy schedule and lots of what can only be described as "stimulus". A bit taxing with sinus problems and allergies.<br /><br />I'm ready to slow down and settle into the winter routine in C-camp at Denali National Park. Hopefully, I'll regain control of my schedule and endless list of projects that I want to do, and then I'll spend a bit of time playing with the kennels pups. :)Ranger Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11213553384273836624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7434446941236164360.post-6931474076002002172011-03-26T19:15:00.000-07:002011-04-05T14:54:43.980-07:00My Little FriendThose of you who have seen my pictures on Facebook know of my little friend from this winter. Her name is Sylvie, and she's roughly six months old....<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ_Dq9ysUvr08oUfpdjgG-GxTEFyhuKj9P-oPdyrNI7BwVjHGVz-FmgonF70CYXuMsqCffB4UFiQrdPK5Ft1PCFqNr8-mKbJ-k6RiL64P4FkR1R9ip8H06KDphir5-lUGmEWSi8gMxzgY/s1600/IMG_7643.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ_Dq9ysUvr08oUfpdjgG-GxTEFyhuKj9P-oPdyrNI7BwVjHGVz-FmgonF70CYXuMsqCffB4UFiQrdPK5Ft1PCFqNr8-mKbJ-k6RiL64P4FkR1R9ip8H06KDphir5-lUGmEWSi8gMxzgY/s200/IMG_7643.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588580115937854626" border="0" /></a><br />She came to Denali from a kennel in the town of Eagle (which I actually visited in 2007, interestingly enough), near the U.S.-Canada border. She was six weeks old at that time in early November. You see, Denali's kennel is a working kennel. However, the litter of pups born last season was all males. The kennels manager saw a need to bring in a new female and Sylvie got the job. :) Back when she was still small enough for me to lift with one hand, she posed for a Flat Stanley picture with me:<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWwzn1VEckegiIQcpDPvwitaYM8b7LwHKdM0bRv9ZPoDAz3ARVeR4n5t5GfWEZlDWtvTOuwWzj0r6JZlijnhjF68booY9kQUaMge6uTnsaPm-O2STNvS82lvVRnw61gZtw3EWuT4-KZo8/s1600/IMG_7004.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWwzn1VEckegiIQcpDPvwitaYM8b7LwHKdM0bRv9ZPoDAz3ARVeR4n5t5GfWEZlDWtvTOuwWzj0r6JZlijnhjF68booY9kQUaMge6uTnsaPm-O2STNvS82lvVRnw61gZtw3EWuT4-KZo8/s200/IMG_7004.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588580124131921778" border="0" /></a><br />Since then, we have bonded. She is my little kennel friend. We have walked together several times.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU0mH8IqNoXA4YHOLqp_deik_U43owN4xMeR_sxvD57fBEXVXCiEXsuEmbcL6gak70b65jNLxiCR-yklQSj9NBHKAjdTcajRLYr5lKQEJV4JRB6jDECb5rq7_t02jY9CwSYoELCrhyQXs/s1600/IMG_7648.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU0mH8IqNoXA4YHOLqp_deik_U43owN4xMeR_sxvD57fBEXVXCiEXsuEmbcL6gak70b65jNLxiCR-yklQSj9NBHKAjdTcajRLYr5lKQEJV4JRB6jDECb5rq7_t02jY9CwSYoELCrhyQXs/s200/IMG_7648.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588580136255137522" border="0" /></a><br />She loves to do the Puppy Pounce in the snow, and usually comes up looking like this:<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHFNelb6XxCxzxhWCRyFsdp5rcgr6dBQqAcNSOg9b8n0k7N2L0AZoKQ1g5Skw27M54V17Tw2WzQmVph3OXg_FGf8MoyVaWXAcBOPru5mNZYzFzJ7tz5XyA_w4YGQiXPmRjtsMoYEFX5yw/s1600/IMG_7642.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHFNelb6XxCxzxhWCRyFsdp5rcgr6dBQqAcNSOg9b8n0k7N2L0AZoKQ1g5Skw27M54V17Tw2WzQmVph3OXg_FGf8MoyVaWXAcBOPru5mNZYzFzJ7tz5XyA_w4YGQiXPmRjtsMoYEFX5yw/s200/IMG_7642.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588580121741488690" border="0" /></a><br />Every time I visit the kennels nowadays, she gets a hug:<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKRvgqSgElEo6nvLnIkoFzBVkjXiuqgn8ZpojcLE6ebO5GyrLHoKAI_7EgOz2dhEEPWlT7aYyfg4dFphLdLLHUHnVUTJndPTOdNR4jUkLFXYPZEUDgE62sLgSYoIp5STq7SrLkHpa8Z0Q/s1600/IMG_7341.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKRvgqSgElEo6nvLnIkoFzBVkjXiuqgn8ZpojcLE6ebO5GyrLHoKAI_7EgOz2dhEEPWlT7aYyfg4dFphLdLLHUHnVUTJndPTOdNR4jUkLFXYPZEUDgE62sLgSYoIp5STq7SrLkHpa8Z0Q/s200/IMG_7341.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588580134041103250" border="0" /></a>Ranger Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11213553384273836624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7434446941236164360.post-42085074417653900902011-03-20T23:13:00.000-07:002011-03-20T23:21:55.405-07:00It's Been A Few Weeks...Things are good. The days are getting longer. The animals are becoming more active. I'm finding myself with lots of projects around the cabin - things I want to do for me.<br /><br />#1) I have seeds to grow two kinds of green beans, two kinds of peppers, spinach and cucumbers. I want to have veggies this summer. The challenge? Keeping the moose out.<br /><br />#2) I have started to work on two new pairs of pajama pants. Mom gave me the flannel and notions during the winter, and my cabin finally has great light again to work after I get done at the MSLC each day.<br /><br />#3) I'm getting pairs of my fingerless gloves knit up in the hopes of selling them at a friend's shop in Glitter Gulch this summer. Extra pocket money never hurts.<br /><br />#4) I've lost 3.4 pounds. I'm hoping I can keep up this trend; my goal on this front is a much greater loss. ;)<br /><br />---<br /><br />Spring is well on its way for most of the United States. Here in Alaska, we still have at least another month of winter. But I did see a woodpecker yesterday while out on my walk after work. It was a refreshing sight!Ranger Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11213553384273836624noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7434446941236164360.post-7819340626226159632011-03-03T15:34:00.000-08:002011-03-03T15:38:50.085-08:00March... How do I love thee? Let me count the ways!I have two boxes of Thin Mints, one box of Tagalongs and one box of Samoas sitting on the desk in front of me. Tomorrow I will be minus one box of Thin Mints, but my tummy will be very happy.<br /><br />I love March.<br /><br />On the 13th, we get REI dividends, and I will be doing some shopping. ;)<br /><br />And next time I get to town for groceries? I will be coming home with at least one bag of Cadbury's Mini Eggs.<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><em>(Yes, I know I'm supposed to be dieting for the bridesmaid's dress in September. But these chocolate events only happen once a year. I must take advantage while I can.) </em></span>Ranger Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11213553384273836624noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7434446941236164360.post-85303562131763222072011-03-01T14:48:00.000-08:002011-03-01T16:38:39.893-08:00Random Thoughts From When Life Gets Carried AwayIt's been a long week. Really 10 days. And the MSLC is the happening place to be this week. I really haven't had any quiet time to think, much less work on my actual projects at work.<br /><br />1) Winterfest 2011 is over. Whew. Lots of people and kids running around this weekend. But Winterfest was overshadowed by two big storms that moved through, dumping 2'6" of snow in about 5 days. Blowing winds and bad wind chills kept the Winterfest numbers down a bit, but all events were enjoyed and received good feedback.<br /><br />2) We still have a 6-foot-tall block of ice out in front of the MSLC. It's a big block, meant to be carved into a sculpture. However, due to the storms, the sculptor couldn't get himself and his gear down here from Fairbanks. So we're calling this ice block "Cubism". That's our sculpture.<br /><br />3) I just had a few men in the MSLC who stopped on their drive between Anchorage and Fairbanks. They looked at the fossil display for a moment and then asked if we allowed subsistence dinosaur hunting. Take as many as you want! (Funny. Very funny.)<br /><br />4) There is both an EMT class and a superintendent's budget meeting going on here yesterday and today. I have gotten NOTHING done in the office, even though actual visitor numbers are low. The folks in the budget meeting are, for the most part, not in very good moods. I think I'm glad they lock themselves in the classroom for this meeting. Just don't kill the messenger (me) if I ask you to move your car or donate for the coffee you drank. You can't double park or park behind others' cars in the lot just because you were late for your meeting. And we buy our own coffee around here. ;)<br /><br />5) Because of the never-ending line of park leadership, EMT students and park visitors, I've had some very odd questions - and the expectation that I will know the schedule of every park employee. I've decided that I must be the Magic 8 Ball Ranger: shake me enough times and you'll get some sort of answer. Though you may have to shake multiple times to get the answer you want.<br /><br />5) Yesterday, the park made me a job offer for this coming summer season. It looks like I'll be working up here at Denali this summer, instead of going back to Mount Rainier. I'm really looking forward to this summer. I'm not sure what district I'll be in or where I'll be stationed - but I think I'm hoping for Kantishna / Wonder Lake. It's amazing out there!<br /><br />6) I've gone to bed by 10 p.m. the past few nights. This is early for me. I must be tired.<br /><br />7) Ok, I know I'm tired. I really want to take a nap right now. But I won't be home for another hour at least.Ranger Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11213553384273836624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7434446941236164360.post-7344230501228058632011-02-21T12:09:00.000-08:002011-02-21T12:11:22.585-08:00Snowy Presidents' Day<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5_wvtAUyfcbb36US-02smfC8cVRqzx2ld14RI5355gu3P7nA_KO2kLQQX83WFWCIEWiXATZe8Ap09hcYLmdPskufa6penq-kV_SciEw17C1gKFqcCawv8KPBHb-rl5DxaB4CUzrht82U/s1600/IMG_1450.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5_wvtAUyfcbb36US-02smfC8cVRqzx2ld14RI5355gu3P7nA_KO2kLQQX83WFWCIEWiXATZe8Ap09hcYLmdPskufa6penq-kV_SciEw17C1gKFqcCawv8KPBHb-rl5DxaB4CUzrht82U/s200/IMG_1450.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576237582587189714" border="0" /></a><br />Through next weekend, Denali Borough will be celebrating Winterfest. We will NOT be short on snow. I shoveled for a good 30 minutes this morning. It's still coming down and you can't really tell any more just how much I shoveled. ;)Ranger Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11213553384273836624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7434446941236164360.post-32855192519453239452011-02-20T16:10:00.001-08:002011-02-20T16:15:16.418-08:00Haiku SundayDriving home from Talkeetna last night, the scenery was beautiful. Until the sun set. Then it was pitch black all around me.<br /><br />In the spirit of the haiku we have been writing all winter here at Denali, I thought of a new one:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">The abyss of night<br />Moon and stars will guide the way<br />Winter way up north<br /></div><br />Do you ever write poetry? I never used to. But the 5-7-5 Haiku has drawn me in this winter. I now find myself counting syllables when I think up some creative phrase.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">February snow<br />Blowing, swirling all around<br />Winter's not done yet!<br /></div>Ranger Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11213553384273836624noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7434446941236164360.post-5468052240005393722011-02-16T21:58:00.000-08:002011-02-16T22:10:16.256-08:00Life Is Always Greener....We've all had that feeling.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">You know.</span><br /><br />Life is always greener on the other side of the fence.<br /><br />This week happens to be the 7th (really??? SEVENTH?) annual RMNP Forums STOMP event.<br /><br />I'm not there.<br /><br />Neither is Bill or Sandy. Or Charlie. Or a few other people. But the first three are my companions of the hour.<br /><br />We're all whining. We've all been sick. (OK, so the fever and sinus/throat issues aren't the reason I'm not there, but, well, they made their nasty curtain call just at the right time.)<br /><br />It's amazing how a group of friends can get to know each other so well. It seems like just yesterday, I met Bill. And Aaron. But really, Bill and I have been arguing baseball for more than 7 years? How long have Aaron and I been calling each other names?<br /><br />Time sure flies.<br /><br />In honor of my friends who are snowshoeing and building igloos in Rocky Mountain National Park this week - and those of us who are elsewhere - I'd like to share Bill's blog entry from today. He writes so well; I couldn't have said it any better! Check it out:<br /><br /><a href="http://bpowers2002.wordpress.com/2011/02/16/the-leftbehinders/">Poppy's Perspective: The Leftbehinders</a>Ranger Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11213553384273836624noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7434446941236164360.post-1452027435199771252011-02-14T20:40:00.000-08:002011-02-15T09:36:19.855-08:00100 Things About Me On February 14, 2011<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:applybreakingrules/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:usefelayout/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal">I’ve been sick off and on for the past few days. My body sort of feels like a Mack truck hit it. Fever, chills, aches, you name it… So I haven’t been very productive. Except as a germ factory.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">I’ve been at home on my couch all day today. Sometimes asleep and snoring because I’m so congested. Yes, my own snoring wakes me up. I don’t snore much under normal circumstances. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">So anyway, I’ve had lots of time to think. My mind has been racing; my body just can’t keep up. I’ve been reading blogs and notes on Facebook from old friends, former classmates and acquaintances. One such blog listed “100 Things About Me” written by a high school classmate of mine. Some of those facts I knew, some I didn’t. Her list inspired me to write my own list….</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Without further adieu…</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <ol style="margin-top: 0in;" start="1" type="1"><li class="MsoNormal" style="">No, I haven’t forgotten about “The Trap” which was mentioned in my most recent blog entry before this. It’s still a program in progress and will be added on here tomorrow if I feel up to it.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">This winter, I’m living in a little dry cabin in Denali National Park and Preserve. Yes, it is easier than you think. I like the simple life.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">This is my third National Park Service site to work at.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Before this, I was a ranger at Mount Rainier National Park in Washington state for 20+ months. You should see what 12 feet of remnant snow looks like on July 2. Snowapalooza 2011 has NOTHING on Mount Rainier. Mount Rainier is the snowiest place in the Lower 48 states. (So this wasn’t all about me, but it’s one amazing mountain and deserves recognition.)</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I love the summer season at Mount Rainier. The wildflowers are amazing.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Before Rainier, I worked for the Water Resources office of the NPS in Fort Collins. I crunched data. I liked that office, but I’m happier out in the parks.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Did I always want to work for the National Park Service? I told my mom when I was 5 years old – we were on a family vacation at Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado – that I wanted to be a ranger when I grew up.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Yes, rangers tend to move around a bit. I’m not the first; I won’t be the last.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I have arrived.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I don’t need anything I don’t have. Except maybe sinuses and ears/nose/throat that aren’t subject to infections all of the time.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I have had three sinus (etc.) infections this winter. Other than that, I’ve loved being at Denali.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">My body is a case study. </li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">My nose doesn’t smell (my mom’s doesn’t either). I like to think my other four senses are heightened because of this. But I really don’t know if they are. </li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">My eyesight is deteriorating slowly. Thanks, in part, to a severely scratched cornea that I had in 2006. That’s the only time I’ve worn contacts. </li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I’ve never worn glasses except for sunglasses and safety goggles. But never fear; my time is coming!</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I have mild arthritis in both legs from a deformity which I was born with. Technically, I’ve been told by sports therapists that I shouldn’t run. I can’t run fast anyhow, so who cares?</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">In November 2009, I had my gall bladder removed. </li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">The surgeon put me on a no-red-meat diet. </li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">My Republican, flag-waving father LOVED that. It’s a Liberal habit, after all.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I had to remind him that I didn’t eat a whole lot of red meat BEFORE the gall bladder problems were discovered. I just can’t eat heavy foods like that.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I’ve loved salads and fruits since I was a kid.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Alaska and Washington are GREAT states to live in if you like fresh berries. Many wild species – which are ALWAYS better than farmed or hot-house varieties – of <i>Vaccinium</i> (blueberries and cranberries) and <i>Rubus</i> (raspberries)<span style=""> </span>carpet the mountain slopes in every direction. In the fall, I rarely take snacks with me on hikes – just water. The mountains provide enough nourishment.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">My real food addictions are coffee and chocolate, much of which I have to plan ahead to get as a ranger in a National Park.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Thankfully, the mountains provide more than just physical nourishment. Europe has cathedrals; North America has its mountains.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Religion is a very touchy subject with me.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">No matter what I say, I’ll offend someone.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I like approaching it from an academic perspective; either you do or you don’t.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I believe in God, but most of the modern church in today’s culture either insults me or scares the crap out of me.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Especially when they get mixed into politics.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">It took me a long time to get the courage to say that out loud. Since then, I have been a much freer person.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I’d rather commune out in a park somewhere alone. Where there’s no distractions or peer pressure to be something I’m not.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">See? I told you I’d offend someone. (see #26)</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">The only pastor – that I’ve actually heard preach on more than one occasion – that I still respect is the pastor of my childhood. Many of you know him.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I love reading his daughter’s comments on my Facebook page.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">As an academic pursuit, I love comparing religions, church history, etc. etc.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I am a nerd; I love learning.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">The Ph.D. will be finished eventually. Just don’t ask when.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Because of my upbringing, I spent part of each day – usually either 6 or 7 days a week with the same group of people: my classmates. From Kindergarten until we graduated from high school.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">One of these (no longer) “young men” had a conversation with me on Facebook maybe 2 years ago. </li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">He told me that he’d had a crush on me in grade school. I thought we had a fabulous conversation! I loved hearing how he and his family are doing now.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Most of the men I’ve dated or liked have been utter disappointments. I’m much happier single.<br /></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">One of my life-long best friends is a man. He’s not a disappointment.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I’m touchy on that subject too. Peer pressure is a nasty thing.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I’m from St. Louis.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Next answer: Hazelwood Central.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Give me a break; I’m broke because of grad school, but I turned out just fine.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I have two other STL loves, besides family and friends </li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">The baseball Cardinals (you can’t argue with that)</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Fritz’s ice cream stand</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I’m going to get a Praline sundae in September when I’m in STL.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I’m going to be flying in for my brother’s wedding.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I’m one of the bridesmaids.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I haven’t worn a formal dress – by choice – since high school. This is going to be awkward. </li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I live in wool, fleece and uniform pieces.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I hate all leg-related hosiery. Except my hand-knit wool socks.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I have like 25 pairs of hand-knit socks that I’ve made for myself.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I haven’t bought socks – not even the required NPS uniform socks (gasp!) – for about 8 years. </li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I had one supervisor at Rainier who encouraged me to wear my colorful creations, even though they were breaking uniform regs.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I thought that supervisor was cool.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">She didn’t follow rules just to follow rules and be liked.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I hope to buck trends and think for myself in an equal manner some day.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I know. I just offended a few more people.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">This same supervisor taught me how to hunt for wild chanterelles in the Cascades.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I won’t spend money on chanterelles from the grocery store. They always disappoint me. Yes, I have tried grocery store chanterelles. But I did dehydrate a batch last fall at Ohanapecosh and the remainders are up here with me in my cabin’s freezer.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Both white and yellow chanterelles are now my favorite mushrooms. They are great, sautéed with butter and garlic over pasta. </li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I might also add peas and sun-dried tomatoes to such a dish.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I like peas.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Actually, I like most any vegetable.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Except bitter greens. Unless they have bacon in them. Sadly, I can’t do this much. (see #17-20)</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I’m not a picky eater; I love almost any ethnic food.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">The one thing I really don’t like or eat is liver.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I think it’s a texture thing. I’m not really sure.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I’m hungry now.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I wish I had some Ben & Jerry’s Coffee Heath Bar Crunch or Dublin Mudslide.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Yes, it’s -10F outside right now, but Alaskans eat more ice cream per capita that most other states.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I am one of THEM.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I’m not quite a true Alaskan Sourdough though. </li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I do like having a shower house across the street.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I have some sourdough starter ready for use on the counter. </li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I’m going to make myself a pancake when I’m done writing this entry.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I love all things sourdough, especially the sourdough doughnuts.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I’m happy I mastered this recipe that my dad handed down to me!</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Since I’m staying home sick again tomorrow, maybe I’ll make doughnuts.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I hate sick days. My body doesn’t want to move but my mind is still going. </li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">It makes me feel stuck.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Being in my cabin here in Denali feels freeing, not “stuck”, unless I'm sick.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I got my truck 9 years ago today. </li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">It has seen many miles and many mountain passes with me.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">That truck has been the most reliable vehicle I’ve ever owned. </li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">That truck was a smart decision – though some at the time doubted my sanity.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I hate making decisions. They take me forever.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Some people doubt my choices, but the times when I’ve followed my instincts, I have had no regrets.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">My cousin Kelly helped with the logistics of picking up the new truck at the dealership when it came in. (I ordered it from the factory, to my specifications, thank you very much.)</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Kelly is the older sister I never had.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">We don’t always agree on everything, but she’s always there for me.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I’ll be staying at her house in September when I’m in STL for the wedding.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I’ll be renting a car for that week, since my schedule will be crazy and I’m flying into town. I’ll be grateful to get back to my truck after dealing with a rental car.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I’m going to have to get a new cell phone soon. The phone I’m using is 5 years old, but it’s the most reliable. I won’t be buying smart phone unless Verizon requires it of me. I’m not a doggy on a leash.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I need reliable things that work when and how I want them to work.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I believe strongly that, if you want things done right, you need to do them yourself.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">Prepare yourself for as many situations as you can and build as many skills into your life as you can.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="">I love my skills, hobbies, projects and tasks at work, and I love working for our National Parks. It’s enough.</li></ol> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Ok, so that’s 102 Things. I don’t like following rules. (#103)</p>Ranger Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11213553384273836624noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7434446941236164360.post-36389803320013755682011-02-06T14:44:00.000-08:002011-02-06T16:42:36.101-08:00The SparkWhat inspires you?<br /><br />Where does your inspiration come from?<br /><br />What is the result of this inspiration?<br /><br />---<br /><br />I've been thinking a lot about inspiration today. Mostly because I feel a bit overwhelmed. So many things have inspired me lately. For knitting projects, for road trips, for meals, for future projects in the parks I work in, and for career goals.<br /><br />At the moment, one of my tasks at work is to create a history-based snowshoe hike to be given at the upcoming Winterfest event here in Denali at the end of February. The hard part? This time of year, most of the historic sites around the Denali front country are covered in snow. Most are not even visible without significant shoveling.<br /><br />I thought I was going to have to use a canned program for this hike - an outline created by one of the summer rangers. But this really didn't fit, since I cannot physically get at some of the 'props'.<br /><br />But after watching the late <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/In-Memorium-David-Larsen/139396659454813?v=wall&ref=ts">David Larsen's</a> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vU-1fJEcyoE&feature=related&safety_mode=true&persist_safety_mode=1">"Gun Talk"</a>, I am inspired in another direction. I'm going to base my entire program on a single historic object: a steel trap used in the 1800's and 1900's used to ensnare animals.<br /><br />How can a steel trap be the symbolic relic of a park? I'll post my entire write-up in an entry later this week. For now, you can leave comments about what that trap might conjure up in your mind. How do those mental images make you feel?<br /><br />---<br /><br />Based purely on numbers, it would seem we had a busy day here at the MSLC. But really, we had a huge tour group come through this morning and it's been relatively quiet ever since. I've spent a couple of hours watching videos, programs and interviews with David Larsen on (of all places) YouTube. He's said a lot of thought-provoking things and given me quite a bit of inspiration for my history program.<br /><br />When he died (way too young) last month, the National Park Service lost a great modern leader. He will continue to inspire those who take the time to listen.Ranger Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11213553384273836624noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7434446941236164360.post-60171223568276183222011-02-01T15:51:00.000-08:002011-02-01T16:08:45.971-08:00A Night To Stay InMy friends down in the Lower 48 are dealing with, what they have termed, "Snowpocalypse 2011". Giant storms are blanketing the midwest and eastern U.S. and everyone is hunkering down. It makes me smile.<br /><br />It's +19F here in the Denali frontcountry. Earlier today it was +34F. Yes, that's a heat wave for this time of year. It's subsequently clouded over and started snowing again. The winds have picked up a bit too. Flakes are swirling around the MSLC, blowing off the roof in big gusts and it LOOKS like it's getting colder outside.<br /><br />Tonight will be another night to curl up in my cabin with an Irish coffee, turn a movie on, and attack the long list of UFOs in my knitting bag. And shelves. And purse. Ok, so my entire cabin is a study in "unfinished objects".<br /><br />I've been following the <a href="http://www.yarnharlot.ca/blog/">Yarn Harlot's progress of Finishitupitis</a> the past few days. I'm not sure whether I feel inspired or guilty. But hopefully, this little motivation will lead to good things.<br /><br />The stress of jobs, moving, choices, etc. is even more fresh in my mind than yesterday. I received another interest/availability inquiry from another park that I applied to, so I might have another interview coming soon. It's good that I have choices and opportunities, but it doesn't make the <span style="font-style: italic;">choosing</span> any easier.<br /><br />I hope that, by keeping my mind on finishing (or at least working on) knitting projects tonight, I'll relax, refocus and be productive tomorrow.Ranger Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11213553384273836624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7434446941236164360.post-46961122747556699722011-01-31T15:19:00.000-08:002011-01-31T15:42:38.058-08:00Two Long WeeksIt's been two weeks since my last entry. I guess that's because nothing too out-of-the-ordinary has been happening.<br /><br />Winter is progressing here at Denali. We're starting to get more and more daylight - almost 7 hours and 15 minutes each day now! It's been warm the past few days as well - between +20-+30F. The Lower 48 seems to be colder and icy/snowier than we are right now. A little odd, perhaps, but I'm not complaining. ;)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyTYixsYtesgIsWXKAATO-ShcXPO6R86kiSAmTosBT3bj9YcHRxjC3rdWC4Koz34-1Qhpq_PXcQ5Anc52HjNWtISdg4WE4LtERX3vb8qfSsE5zSXu0xkqwFNS4ZEWD3uxK5IMlkUpGNL4/s1600/Chinook.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyTYixsYtesgIsWXKAATO-ShcXPO6R86kiSAmTosBT3bj9YcHRxjC3rdWC4Koz34-1Qhpq_PXcQ5Anc52HjNWtISdg4WE4LtERX3vb8qfSsE5zSXu0xkqwFNS4ZEWD3uxK5IMlkUpGNL4/s200/Chinook.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568494737448104450" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:78%;" >Chinook, with snow on his nose. He loves to dig.<br /></span></div><br />Last weekend, I took one of the kennel dogs, Chinook, out for a walk in the afternoon. It was warm enough that we walked up the park road for a mile or so and back without getting too cold. He's a big boy, and I was hoping that he wouldn't want to run or pull me too much, but he's great as a walking partner. He likes to sniff and explore the trail and isn't in a hurry. He also knew I had doggie treats in my pocket and every time I went for my camera, he'd turn to look at me. Word to the wise: never put your camera in the same pocket as the doggie treats. His whole muzzle was in my pocket once, almost before I realized it!<br /><br />---<br /><br />This time of year can be a bit trying for many of us in the National Parks.<br /><br />Not because of the weather, as many people in the country are facing storms, ice, snow and cold conditions. (This week, their weather is worse than ours up here in Alaska!)<br /><br />But this is THAT time of the year... when parks start the paperwork and processes to bring back their seasonal workforce. Budgets, hiring, competition for jobs - and competition to hire the most qualified candidates, and planning for the upcoming summer 'busy' season occupy all of our minds. From superintendents to front-line rangers, many of the folks around here are a bit on edge right now.<br /><br />I have the potential to return to Mount Rainier National Park in Washington state for the 2011 season. I also have a couple of other interviews coming up in the next week or two. My stomach is doing flip-flops over this choice. Planning for any necessary travel will have to happen sooner than later. Personally, I don't worry the actual details too much; the choice and timing of these required choices is what gets to me the most.<br /><br />Not much of an excuse, but that explains my absence the past two weeks. Suffice it to say, the dogs are sweet, the mountains are beautiful, and I still want that little cabin in the woods. I'm just not sure where the jobs will lie this summer.Ranger Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11213553384273836624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7434446941236164360.post-24198101319480249172011-01-15T12:07:00.000-08:002011-01-15T12:50:45.222-08:00Diamonds Are A Girl's Best Friend<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW0rzX50ua2BNAy7QhNPJwwl-zGuY2xVtFwUF9U3XT2j1Z9HvB6gKMfteBG80IEh_KytdLgeNGtZbCnUM3UxtJ9an0jM3GXjc7AZul7bLy_MOz6MorQJvM9bTgkyiGIkEI9rYIlMimTbc/s1600/IMG_7349.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW0rzX50ua2BNAy7QhNPJwwl-zGuY2xVtFwUF9U3XT2j1Z9HvB6gKMfteBG80IEh_KytdLgeNGtZbCnUM3UxtJ9an0jM3GXjc7AZul7bLy_MOz6MorQJvM9bTgkyiGIkEI9rYIlMimTbc/s200/IMG_7349.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562509855032318818" border="0" /></a><br />The picture above was taken this past week one day. Notice the horizontal cloud in the very middle of the shot. Clouds sometimes hang low over the rivers and creeks - this happens to be the Nenana River.<br /><br />As the sun gets a bit higher in the sky each day, I'm constantly in awe of the light. People think Alaska is dark all winter. But it's not, and the light makes for a great show. During the depths of winter, sunlight is at a much lower angle - as the sun barely scrapes the horizon for a few days - turning the surrounding mountains various shades of pinks, salmons and purples. Add a few clouds into the mix and you've got a sky that stops you in your tracks. Or it stops <span style="font-style: italic;">me</span> in <span style="font-style: italic;">my</span> tracks.<br /><br />I went out for a walk yesterday. It was -25F at about 1:30 p.m. when I left. It was cold. But I kept moving - I needed the exercise and fresh air.<br /><br />At one point, I couldn't help but stop. I was heading down the trail towards a footbridge over a creek. The trail was lined with alders taller than me. The snowflakes that had settled (grown?) on the alder branches caught the light so that the whole shrub sparkled like a pile of diamonds.<br /><br />After about a minute, I caught myself. No, I had not fallen, but I had lost track of time - even for a split second. I looked around. There wasn't anyone around me. I heard a raven somewhere in the distance. The wind blew a few snowflakes around in circles on the trail ahead of me. I looked back to the branch of diamonds that had drawn me away from my walk.<br /><br />I guess diamonds really are a girl's best friend. ;)Ranger Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11213553384273836624noreply@blogger.com2