Get outside and enjoy the day like this little mite.
Well blow me down, there’s sun out there this morning. Thank goodness. I’m not sure I could have survived another day of gloom. I picked up the Harrison family, aka the Pedouins (like Bedouin) yesterday in Whittier, and I think it was the stormiest drive ever through Portage Valley. The AKontheGO truckster was shaking and rocking so much I couldn’t take my hands off the wheel to sip my Kaladi Bros. latte. Now that’s wrong.
At any rate, the sun is here right now and on a Friday and frankly, any activity originating outdoors is good today. We do have some festivals and events happening, some classes and guided hikes, but just taking a few hours to hike a trail without needing to pack the raingear or extra socks is nice, too.
If you live in the Mat-Su Valley area, don’t forget the Palmer Friday Flings, held each Friday from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. in the pavillion across from the Visitor Information Center. Plants, arts and crafts, and live music is all part of the weekly event, operating through the end of August. Call 907-761-3500 for info.
If your older kids enjoy things that go, check out the Museum of Alaska Transportation and History’s ‘Museum Camp 2010′ from July 12-16 at their facility in Wasilla. Suitable for ages 10-14, this camp will offer hands-on learning opportunities and activities all week for those so mechanically-inclined young people. Lunch and snacks provided, and the cost is $100 per child. Call 907-376-1211 for info, or visit the Museum’s web site HERE.
Back in Anchorage, there’s an interesting afternoon on tap at the Bird Treatment and Learning Center, 15500 Old Seward Highway Saturday. From 1-3, the ‘Rappin With Raptors’ lecture will encourage kids to use talons to ctch food like a reptor, play eye-spy, and learn how hawks are like helicopters. Really. The event is Free. Call 907-562-4852 or visit the Bird TLC web site HERE.
We mentioned the Bear Paw Festival in Eagle River the other day, and it looks like a great weekend for the rides, crafts, and special events. The Grand Parade takes place at 11 a.m. Saturday, right after the famous 5k run. Parking stinks so take the free shuttles from either the VFW or Fred Meyer parking lots. Bring your walking shoes and your appetite.
Sundays through the end of summer, the Port of Anchorage is offering free tours for the whole family. I’ve normally not been interested in such things, but I’m hearing more and more that the free tour aboard a motorcoach (enough excitement in AK Kid’s eyes, for sure, he loves these things), takes participants through the shipyards, to the loading docks, and all around normally-restricted area. Hmm. Plus, hot dogs and drinks are available at the end. Now that’s kid-friendly. Meet any time between 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Alaska Railroad’s Corporate office, 327 West Ship Creek Avenue (down by Ship Creek). Tours leave every 30 mintes. Call 907-343-6230, or visit the web site HERE.
AK Dog is begging for his morning ball-throwing session in the back yard. This will be the first time in ages I don’t have to wear my boots. I’m all over that. Get out today. Your souls need it.
Happy Friday!
