It’s been an exciting week as we watch every day for the salmon to arrive in the river. The rangers have reported they are at the mouth of the river and headed downstream. We should begin to see them any day. It must be quite a site as “Have the salmon arrived?” is the second most asked question. First is “Where are the restrooms?” and I can answer that one in my sleep, with conviction!
Here are some pictures of the Indian River . . .


This week has taken on a normal look. It rained 5 of the 7 days, and Tuesday and Wednesday were sunny and gorgeous. No one seems to mind the rain. Even the visitors seem so taken with the beauty that it hasn’t stressed them out at all.
Cappie & I took the Medvejie Hatchery Tour. This is one of the local salmon hatcheries. The king salmon are returning now and they are really jumping. I tried to get a picture of one in the air but I wasn’t fast enough. I’d aim right and they would jump on my left. I appeared like a crazy woman swinging my camera left and right and faster and faster. A nice man walked by and mumbled “try taking a video dear” . . . aw, the obvious things we miss! The Hatchery provided lunch and they cooked salmon and baked potatoes on the open fire. Yum! It was a great morning of learning and eating.







Work has taken on a little more intensity in preparing for inventory and end of month. I’m enjoying it. It’s great to be able to do things that are productive while having such a great time. My hope is to write some good operation procedures for the crew that will man the store throughout the off season.

The volunteers had a get together for a potluck Mexican dinner last Friday. That was quite fun and we enjoyed a variety of food. While 90% of the volunteers are young (early 20’s), they make a place for Cappie and me and treat us so well. They even bought Corona beer just for me.


We’ve had a great time watching chick flicks this week thanks to Laura’s (or LB as she goes by) brought a stash of them. We’ve watched New in Town with Renee Zellweger (so funny!); It’s Complicated with Meryl Streep (again, a funny one), and The Longest Ride with Scott Eastwood (a tear jerker). Made for a great week!!! Thanks LB!
Took some photos during a walk in the park on the trails. Thought you might enjoy some greenery!








Hope you enjoyed your walk through the park. Now how about some ocean views!


On my off day last week I met a young girl and her dog Tango. She and her brothers have written 3 children’s books about their adventures. Tango’s 8 years old and a fabulous guy. I sent Mike & Tom her books so ask them to take a look if you see them. Pretty awesome little girl and her dog! (her mom too).

My last little side adventure this week was volunteering at the Bishop See’s House for a couple hours. This house was the built for the first episcopal bishop in Alaska, Bishop See. It’s called the “See House”. Was built in 1901. Ann, a local who moved her in the 80’s from Houston, runs the Tea Service. The living room is set up with tables, complete with linens, a silver tea service, etc. They serve Tea and scones (along with coffee and a few cookies.) It’s a comfortable place for visitors to rest. Attendance has been sporadic but we had 20 people stop by while I was there for just a couple hours. I enjoyed the time immensely!




I leave you today with the picture of the dog. He sat so patiently in the back of this small car. No leash at all. He just sat there and watched the people. I am amazed at all the dogs and how well behaved they are. They walk with their owners and they stay in backs of pick-up trucks parked for hours at a time. You can talk to them, pet them, etc. and they never try and leave. I think they were sent here for me!!!!!
Be well. Love to all,
Mara