Back in Anchorage

Last night I finally returned to Anchorage. The plane was on time and nearly empty, arriving in Anchorage just before midnight. On arrival to Anchorage a flat gray line of ash was visible to the south over the peninsula, marking Mt. Redoubt's largest eruption of this cycle.

We spent the last couple of days at the beach house in Ocean Park-- enjoying games, movies, oysters, and a little liberal libation over at Doc's bar. On the final evening of my extended odyssey we even won a golf club on pull tabs at the bar, if only I could say my luck at shuffle board was as good.

The morning of my departure we drove to Seattle to meet up with Bryce, Eric, and Andrew, as well as Maggie, who had just flown in from Taipei. Together with Eric's girlfriend, Jenna, we enjoyed a generous dinner of pizza and too much beer at a local pub. We also tuned in to the first NCAA Basketball semi-final.

After a brief walk through the UW campus to view the blooming cherry blossoms we headed to the airport. The long trip finally came to a close, and I was back at work today.



Willapa Bay


Oysters!


Mom looks excited about what she's about to put in her mouth.


Cherry Blossoms in Seattle.


Too many Gardners: Cousin Bryce, Belle, Aunt Brenda, Uncle Al, Cousin Leslie, Jenna, Cousin Eric, Aunt Patti, Me, Andrew, Dad and Maggie


Belle Dog