Alaska Dream Maker

The Last Frontier is still the land of grand adventure, spectacular landscape majestic animals and fishing beyond belief. Alaska changed my life. Without doubt 1963 was a boy-to-man summer thanks to the experiences encountered on a four-month 8,000-mile journey from the Mid-Atlantic States to the wilds of Alaska.

Traveling America By Van: Through Basin And Range

Any book by John McPhee promises a great read. In Basin and Range, he explores the geology of the basin and range areas of the southeastern United States. It's been a few years since last reading McPhee's book, but as we drove down from the Sacramento Mountains onto the Tularosa Basin, I realized I was experiencing the title of his book in a personal way.

Wildlife Watching Wednesday: The Downy Woodpecker

One of the most recognizable birds that visit back yard bird feeders year-round is the Downy Woodpecker. These miniature woodpeckers are only slightly larger than sparrows and are definitely smaller than robins. Their starkly contrasting black and white feathers make them easy to identify as they flit through the tree branches.

Traveling America By Van: Some Thoughts On Traveling Out West

This piece gives some travel tips we've picked up in our so-far month on the road. Don't be in a hurry! You can spend your time driving, or you can get out of the car from time to time and walk. By stopping often, you can see more in better detail, and meet more interesting people. People you meet are either fellow travelers or locals. Either way, they have interesting stories and information that can enhance your trip.