It's Almost Midnight in Alaska and it's Not Quite dark yet

7-20-09 Just a few more words about the day. We had early rain but by around 3pm, the sun came out and we realized tonight that most of us have a little sunburn. Several of us returned to Hatcher Pass late this afternoon so Ron, John and Dave could experience the beautiful vistas and amazing climb. Today was a much different day to climb. The temperature was 51 degrees and at the top, the wind was BLOWING! We experienced a little wet snow on top while waiting for the teens to return from their explorations of a peak at a higher elevation. We hunkered down in a small stone dugout which sheltered us a bit from the wind. On our way down the mountain toward Meier Lake, we stopped to experience a crystal clear, rushing stream. Those adventurous ones among us climbed from rock to rock to put hands or toes in the water. Ilia Donner then pointed out a beautiful bald eagle perched high on chimney-like rock formation. We watched the eagle best when using John's binoculars. We returned to a feast of Alaskan King crab and salmon. The salmon was prepared by Barbara from St. David's - caught fresh just a few days ago. The evening was completed with communion and finally, an echo prayer led by Alex Milleson. We all stood on the back deck of the conference center and shouted to the high heavens! We love Alaska.