Day 3 -- Valdez to Fairbanks

The day started early - probably the latest Hickman has ever slept in his life - 7:30 AM Utah time - Arla poked me in the rib and said what is looking in the windows - was not a bear - he was outside the lodge peeking - really he was enjoying the fresh air or seeing how far he could wiz of the ledge. This was after he polished off 5 more Ding Dongs. Then we lost him - he was out trying out his new rain jacket - "Beware of Bear" - is posted around the property - would have been one well fed bear - particularly if he likes Ding Dongs. Proof is in the picture - this is his 6th - there is one left in the box - Hmm - tempting before he gets it.

We had a PJ - Unnnnddderwear parade this morning - except Hickman - remember he was already dressed. Dang - now I'm one down from the rest - Ellis and Kori are in the shower -------- "Together" -- Hmmmmmm --- where is Sparky.

The view from the lodge is pretty - wish the sun was shining - light rain this morning. We have a slight problem - I now have a Moose Mount - guess Arla and Becky will be riding on top of the Explorer.

Our travels took us from the coast to the Interior - it is drier the further inland we traveled - although it started raining after we had dinner. Today we seen paint - pipe line - more pipe line - moose and had an encounter with a BIG BEAR!!!!!

The boys found a new cat - get the transport in our direction. Seen 8 or 9 cow moose and calves.

And - we stopped at the North Pole to visit with Santa and drop of notes and letters to him. He was really busy in his toy shop - he told us to tell all of the kids to be good, mind Mom and Dad and he will see you in December. Before we could get his picture he was called back to the toy factory and we did not get to see him again.

BIG BEAR -- Now -" Mr. Rogers - do you realize you were speeding"?? I mean Mr. Brown - at this point the blue crew almost went to jail - as Kori was laughing. Actually the young man was decent with us - could have been $185 US and 4 Points and 15 over - and the points weren't for the Limited Entry in Alaska. Slow down and enjoy the scenery - that is why you came to Alaska.

Weather is cloudy and the sun is poking through this morning - we are praying for good weather so we can fly.

Cheers the Brown Moose Crew