Today marks 17 days since we took a quick trip up the Alaska Highway for a long winter in the North Country. We are total cheechackos in every sense of the word. Every day I wake up and feel like the new, awkward kid on the block. It’s fun, a little scary, and definitely nudging me out of my comfort zone.
Part of the problem with turning your life upside down is finding your way back to some kind of normalcy to create daily routines. But up here, nothing is normal, as we have already learned. So we roll with it.
As we discover the ins-and-outs of life here, and what to expect during winter in Alaska, I finally had time to assemble two quick video tours of our nine day northbound journey on the Alaska Highway.
Just the act of putting together this footage seeing how far we’ve come (literally and figuratively) is helping me feel more grounded.
A Very Quick Trip Up the Alaska Highway
I have tons more video footage to compile. That won’t be too difficult over winter, I’m sure.
Meanwhile, we are building a new life, getting back to work, and taking in the local flavor.
One way we’re doing it is by visiting the local public library, which is the heart of the community. A library really is the best place to get to know neighbors on a lot of different levels, especially in a community this size.
A few days ago, a friend introduced us to a cute Little Library they built in the woods near a local trail. What a fun surprise!
Notice our rain gear? Yep, that spectacular summer weather that greeted us has come and gone. It’s constantly rainy and mildly chilly now, but the climate is not intolerable. It’s just enough wetness to get us introduced to a low level of discomfort before the big stuff hits.
Meanwhile our regular morning runs are still happening. We can run for miles here, and never get bored of the scenery. But I’m not sure how long these workouts will continue, since we are headed warp-speed into winter. Right now we are losing more than five minutes a day of sunlight.
Some local friends have taken us under their wings and shared priceless tips to make the most of winter. I can’t thank them enough for their help and insight. Their kindness has helped me feel more secure about this decision.
And over the weekend we met some Iditarod mushers who instantly inspired me with their ability to enjoy this unique lifestyle, as well as adapt and overcome any challenges that Alaska throws at them. So I keep telling myself; if they can do it, why not me, or Jim, or anyone really?
Yeah, even you, dear reader.
What’s a “Cheechako” or what are “Cheechakos”?
It’s either a fan of Cheech Marin, or, a new menu item at Taco Bell,
or, what our Hispanic friends in Chicago call each other when traveling?
All the best you two as I just spent two weeks in the San Juans exploring
but that’s not Alaska by any measure.
New album coming out, I’ll send a link soon.
Don’t stop now and remember to explore the “cannibalism” laws of Alaska
before Winter, you’ll want to know if human liver or kidney is a protected protein?
Eric
VP of the Francis MacDormand Forlorn Society
Just looked up “Cheechakos” and what a wonderful term. The bass player in my band (Krista Webb) lived in Alaska, we have friends from there, a breed unto themselves and warm people from a cold place. Good on you both, go for it!!!!! Eric
Enrico, yes, Alaskans are a one-of-a-kind peoples, just like you! Thanks for the nice (and funny, as always) notes. Can’t wait to listen to your latest tunes. Be sure to send that link.
Jim could you please do a video of how the project M is set up including the accessories and what they are for, for instance the two yellow containers on the right side, are they for spare diesel? It would also be interesting to get feedback on camping in freezing wx in it, maybe down to the upper teens?
More videos coming soon Sam, I promise…including details on our build-out. Spoiler alert, the stock M has no accessories. The mounting rails were optional, and yes the two yellow Rotopax are Diesel, 2 gallons each. We added a white one on the other side for water, and mounted one inside for a tank servicing a small sink with pump I installed. The antenna is a weBoost Overland Reach cell signal booster. More details to come!
We have no plans to camp is such low temps, but will find out tonight as we head up the mountain for a quick camping trip.
You totally can do this! Open minds, open hearts, open eyes, and warm hands.
Your belief in us means everything, thanks furiend! xoxo
I’m excited to hear about all of your adventures!
Thanks Patti! They’re already starting, I’ll be sure to share more in the coming months.
Great videos, excited to follow along this journey with you!
Appreciate it Susan, glad you like the videos!