Thursday, June 3, 2010

Valdez 3


We have reached our destination!!

It is just beautiful!

I believe this is the most spectacularly beautiful place I have ever seen.


The mountains surround and engulf you.
We were awestruck with the beauty. It gives the appearance of a quiet little fishing town, very peaceful.


This one is for you Big Kahuna...
Always good to see a familiar sight!


Semper Paratus!



Did you know that in 1964 a devastating earthquake measuring 9.2 on the Richter scale and lasting over 4 minutes struck 45 miles west of Valdez.  The earthquake triggered an underwater landslide which then triggered huge waves. The death toll was severe for this little town.  In 1967 it was discovered the entire town had been built on unstable ground and was moved 4 miles east.  They moved 52 buildings and razed and burned the others. Very interesting history.


We enjoyed our stay in Valdez and were amazed by its beauty. The lush greenery reminded me very much of Oregon.  

On the way back we stopped to pick some of these flowers. 
The folks at the restaurant we stopped at told us these were Lupine. Very pretty! They don't last long when picked though. We also saw some forget-me-nots (Alaska state flower).

 
It has been interesting not having the chain restaurants along the way.


It has given us the opportunity to branch out, go beyond our comfort zone, and have some different experiences.


Look how cute this is. Now if there had been this place and a Cracker Barrel sitting side by side which would you have chosen by looking at the outside?  This was charming and the people running it were very nice indeed!

 
Back to Fairbanks to wrap up our last week and head back to the lower 48.

What an adventure we have had!

5 comments:

andsewon said...

The pic look awesome. I know had to be 20 times better in person!
One more week 'eh! Time flies when we are having fun.. as they say!
I have enjoyed being along for the 'ride'...;-)
I caught up with you today!
Still hobble around a bit.
Thanks for the get well wishes!
Hugs,
Lola

the voice of melody said...

Yes, it does look very charming indeed! The mountains are amazing. Isn't wonderful of God to put all this beauty here on earth for us to enjoy? Glad I was able to enjoy parts of Alaska through visiting you here. :)

BECKY said...

Wow Valerie!! Simply breathtaking photos! I am sorry I haven't linked up like I wanted to. I still may in a day or so. I think folks need to see your photos and read your perspective!

I'm sure you're having some mixed feelings about leaving such a beautiful place. I know I would.

I'll be praying for your trip home, sweetie!
Blessings and hugs,
Becky

Dan said...

The Lupine is related to the Texas Bluebonnet, I believe...

Kim said...

Hi Valerie.. It's been so interesting following you on your travels in Alaska. What an amazing experience for you, your daughter and grandaughter. You are so lucky to have been able to do this. I bet your a bit anxious to get back home though too. Thanks for sharing your journey with us. Wishing you safe travels as you make your way back home. Take care.

Kim