Glen Alps

Amazing day in the clouds, or so it seemed!

A cool day on the mountain, we ventured up to see what we could see and try to find the blueberries.  

We found lots of crow berries, but the moth last year has taken it's toll on the blueberry bushes closest to the trail head.  We also found and smelled, some bear skat, reminding us that we live in an amazing and wild space full of adventure and wonder.  We had so much fun, exploring the unique architecture and landscape of this beautiful area.  Thanks to all our friends who shared this day!

 We felt like we were walking in the clouds

 

 wild tree formations from heavy seasonal cycles

 

 

 we love to climb

 sliding without snow....still FUN

 here's the snow!

 

 a warm hat goes a long way

 

 bear skat, smelled like berries...amazing Alaska space

Byron Glacier/Begich Visitor Center - Oh the Weather!

Oh the Weather!!!

So here's a great example of what we will be doing on the few days that just won't allow us to be outdoors.

We set out on a journey to the Byron Glacier trail in Portage, AK.  We wanted to step out of the Anchorage bowl for a moment to catch sight of one of the amazing glaciers that are just outside our backyards.  The weather was pretty rough, as can get in Alaska.  High winds and rain make for a cold 'summer' walk and the nearby boats were canceling trips due to weather.  So, back up plan, we decided to check out the Begich Visitor Center and learn about the outside through indoor means.  

It's a thoughtful and educational spot and we appreciated it's dry warmth.  

We really missed being outside, but had a great time together, learning about the area! 

 We love all bears!

 Who needs water to kayak?!

 You can't tell from this photo, but the waves were crashing and the mountains were socked in.  

We didn't get to see the glacier from here either!

 We had fun with all the interactive educational devices

 Giant Ice Worm!

 blond brown bear - check out the hump

 Cool Goggles!  Critter Vision

 It was a blustery day, but we sure had fun and learned a lot....can't wait to get outside next week, though!!!

McCugh Creek

What an amazing sunshiney day!  We gathered at McCugh Creek today for some rock climbing, trails and waterfalls.  We were not disappointed!  

So privileged to share this adventure with many friends!

  Rock climbing at any age is empowering!

joyful play and natural wonder

 

 happy to be enjoying our amazing Alaskan habitat

  sometimes boots get wet

  the sound of the waterfall here was roaring and very peaceful

 group discovery

 quiet contemplations

  mutual aid and problem solving are not only essential, but fun

 love and gratitude trees, love and gratitude

 

 we work together

 we create

 we share a peaceful space

Program Overview and Enrollment Application

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1XZu1Y7qyoQkEcE0LL5YjYorGRtoDPkwFpQzjSyCQs1k/edit?pli=1
Program Overview

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1_vExZZ794n171PiYCkVvINyAe11DfzhmlfpEME7kIuM/edit
Enrollment Application

Importance of Nature Immersion - Erin Kenny - Founder of 1st Forest School Model in US; Cedarsong, WA

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Uzvsb1yv34
Children In Nature - Erin Kenny


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vgpy6O-YAhE&feature=relmfu
Why we should encourage play in nature part 1n - Erin Kenny


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0WPZBaFYaYI&feature=relmfu
Why we should encourage play in nature part2 - Erin Kenny

Ocean Bluff Park

A sunny Alaskan summer day, we enjoy Ocean Bluff Park with good buddies and new friends!  

We wondered at the inlet view while running wild and free in this natural space.

Just what will we discover here...

 So much space!

...Cora wonders how we can contain ourselves

 A Trail

 Before we head into the woods and tall grasses, mosquito repellent is a real consideration!  

Some of us experiment with the age old recipe of 100% pure vanilla extract...

jury is still out on this one, will keep you posted!

 This hill was made for rolling down!

 Somebody left something...

 ...round and once useful just where we could explore it!

 

 Contemplations: wheel from some machine, wheel from a stage coach...

 

 None of that matters because today it's a test in balance

 Whoop!  Whoop!

Inside a tree canopy

 INSIDE a tree canopy

 We can always find trees to climb on

 Out into the sunshine again

See you next week!