Thursday, August 27, 2009

Onboard ship – Juneau, Alaska port of call
Woke up early (5:00 ?) and saw nothing but fog out the door. Got up to investigate and could see the mountain tops slipping by very slowly, but the water was totally covered by fog. The ship was moving even slower than the night before.

But somehow we’ve made it to Juneau early. We weren’t supposed to dock till eight o’clock and it’s now quarter after seven and we’re still. I can see houses on the mountain out the window.

Juneau is a city that has no roads in or out of it. It’s totally dependent on the water and the ships that travel it. And yes, it’s the capital of Alaska. But you can’t drive to it, you have to either fly in or take a boat in. The mountains I can see have rounded tops and trees all the way to the top, so these are lower than the ones in Haines.

Just peeked out on the veranda because a floatplane landed and of course, I had to watch. There are four big ships this size docked along the shore and several smaller ones. Looks like the shore will be crowded today! We’re off to get breakfast before setting out and seeing the sights. Will bring my laptop again in hopes of finding another hot spot or two.

For the record, I really, really miss home. No, that’s not entirely true. What I miss are the kids. I know Kate’s not even home, but it doesn’t matter. Ben apparently went to Darien Lake yesterday with the Saracino’s. I know they’re doing fine. I know they’re both flying on their own, something we’ve been preparing them for since they were born. But I still miss them!

2:15 pm
Am sitting in the Juneau Public Library where the wireless access is free…but slower than dial-up! We’ve been out and about since early this morning, mostly shopping the tourist strip. Back to the ship for lunch and then out again. Walked a LOT further than we intended in search of a particular coaster, but we got it!
Called and talked to Mom and Dad (they’re fine), Ben (who’s totally enjoying having the house to himself) and Kate (who’s in the middle of auditions and classes and doesn’t have a lot of time at the same times we do). Good news on all fronts.