Gram/Mom

Mom was here with Mary last week and it was so nice to have her here!!! She always takes such good care of us and showers the kids with lots of Grandma attention. The kids woke up this morning and were not pleased to see that their Gram and Aunt were no longer around. We had such a nice time. Some highlights were a riverboat ride in which we got a good feel for what it is like to live in Fairbanks. We saw a bush pilot take off and land on the river, saw 4 time Iditorod champion Susan Butcher's kennel and her husband demonstrate what it is like to ride a dog sled. We went to an Athabascan village and saw what it is and was like for the native people of the region to live in such a cold climate. It was a lot of fun and Owen especially liked the boat ride (although I think he liked the train book Gram bought for him on the boat better). We went to Denali National Park over the weekend, but much to my dismay it was rainy and cold. We spent most of our time in the Visitor Center and in the car. We were able to see the fall colors though and it was a beautiful drive anyway. Mom and Mary spent a lot of time reading to the kids and playing trains with Owen. And of course, no trip to Fairbanks is complete with out a trip to the North Pole to visits Santa's house. Mom and Mary left last night on what, I am sure, was a seemingly endless journey back to Salt Lake. We had a great time and we miss them dearly. We're looking forward to the next time we get to see them!!!   More photos here.