Another set of photos.

Introducing ZEB

A few more pictures to satisfy the grandparents!

Winter in the interior - Highlights

Even with 6-weeks of winter weather left to endure Spring is at least is starting to feel like a possibility: The light has returned and the temperatures are bearable with multiple layers and the promise of a hot beverage. With the turn, I have started to realize why people choose to live here. Honestly, in December and January I wondered. The dark and the cold scream almost complete inhospitably.

As unwelcoming as the weather is there is still plenty of activity throughout the winter. If your jacket and boots are thick enough. Given my growing girth we have been very conservative in our participation. We passed on skijoring, downhill skiing and even cross-country skiing this year. Opting for the indoor activities or those that allow for a surer-footing and a quicker return to the car.

Getting "Outside"

Its widely accepted in Alaska that you have to go "outside" at some point during the winter to keep your sanity. Prior to living here, I never would have described myself as a sun person. Now I know I like the sun, I like it a lot. Its not the cold that has bothered me as much as the monotony of grey days this winter. In late December after returning from the "outside" we went weeks without really seeing the sun. It was hidden behind over-cast skies. Let me tell you it starts to affect your sanity. The days blend together and your PJ's call your name all the time. Its true what they say, you are wise to get out at some point during the winter. I am so glad we did.

In conjunction with the annual AGU conference in San Francisco we planned a whirlwind trip through the Bay Area seeing friends and family along the way before continuing on to Maui for "Babymoon".   Stopping along the way in Seattle for a long lay-over and "date" with my Dad and his partner Renee to the Museum of Glass.

Practicing what you intend to preach

For many years I have been the recipient of handmade birthday cards from two extra-ordinary now young adults. With rare exception these two were highly encouraged, read required by their mother to make cards for close family and friends. On the verge of becoming a parent myself, I am keenly aware of how these seemingly small traditions shape young people. I am even more conscious of the necessity to model the characteristics we hope to hope to instill in our children ourselves. How could I ever "require" handmade cards, if I do not make them myself?

Original:

My very first hand-made card inspiration found via Pinterest search "Birthday cards", originally from Oh Party.
My interpretation:

It seems only fitting that the first one would one be for one of 

those young people who inspired the tradition.