I HAVE BEEN perched in Anchorage, Alaska for the past month.  I was born and raised here, which in the 60s and 70s had a Sears-Roebuck-hippie-chic vibe.  And, it still does.  Just sub-in Nordstrom and Xtratuf boots.  Anchorage itself is a hodge-podge town where dramatic natural beauty collides with a homely, asphalt sprawl.   Somehow this all gels into an appealing landscape with spirit.

Despite the 60 degree “summer weather,” I have very much enjoyed tromping around in my boots and braids, fishing, flying, hiking, and wildlife-spotting.  I actually started shaking in those boots when I saw this can't-you-see-how-huge-it-is black bear look at me from across the river which, btw was very, very narrow.  Really.   

At the other end of the natural + wacky spectrum, I discovered Alaskans have a fondness for micro brews.  So, what’s a girl to do?  My favorites:  Alaskan White Ale, Hell or High Watermelon, and Trashy & Classy, a blend of Pabst Blue Ribbon and Lindemans Framboise beers.  I kid you not.   

There is a quirky weirdness to it all and it was good to be home.