Kayaking, Kicking Ass and Taking Names

Ketchikan

Gustavus

Summer Digs

I've been really busy since my arrival in Gustavus one week ago. Happs include lots of kayaking, camping, open water rescues in Icy Straits (OMFG) and generally working my ass off. I have to say that I almost forgot how much work guiding requires. I've never guided for such a respected company before. These people are true professionals. My days of making up shit on the spot, showing up to work hung-over and general recklessness are behind me....for now anyways.

I think I'm coming to terms with the fact I'm going to be wet and cold all summer. I didn't really think about the fact that I would be camping ALL summer. This is a pic of my housing while I'm NOT guiding. So far I've been sleeping with two sleeping bags and two Nalgene water bottles full of hot water. This keeps me warm at night. During the day I wear lots of layers, take aspirin, and practice breathing techniques to keep my Renaud's in check. I'm having a great time, but think that at some point I might have to face the reality that I have a circulation problem and Alaska might not be the best fit for me. If only there were glaciers, bears and whales in warmer climates!?!


Tomorrow I'm leaving for Point Adolphus. Look it up, it's one of the best places in North America to view humpback whales. It's pretty awesome. I feel very fortunate that I have gotten the chance to visit, as to get there, first you have to get to Gustavus, and then it's a $200 water taxi ride EACH way, I've already been there three times. 


I'm pretty jazzed about the summer solstice in three days. There is supposedly a huge party on the beach. Pictures and stories to follow.........


"We're the ones we've been waiting for."