Slightly sad to say goodbye to “Gilly” our RV home for the past three weeks.

We had slipped into a very enjoyable routine on the road but all good things come to an end and we have been fortunate to have made memories and friends that will stay with us forever.

On our return to Anchorage we stopped overnight in Wasilla, about 35 miles north, to attend the Alaska State Fair opening day in Palmer. Events such as this, which are focused on local life and priorities, are a good insight into local culture. There was a riding acrobatic show, fire jugglers, rodeo, farm animal petting along wtith the opportunity to milk a cow and throw axes. No we did not partake!

The stalls varied from selling the usual variety of foodstuff such as pulled pork, seafood chowder and donuts, to firearms and locally crafted mammoth ivory handled knives.

We re-connected with Elicia and her husband Ernie. Phil and Elicia were work colleagues 24 years ago in the software industry. Elicia and Ernie hosted and supported us like true Alaskans, going above and beyond to facilitate and assist us with the great van pre- return clean- up.

The friendliness and interest we have experienced from Alaskans without exception are one of our main takeaways from this trip. We drove 2182 miles over three weeks and religiously collected stickers from every location and place we could. Phil created a montage of our journey on the of our RV. Memories made!

On to the third and final part of our Alaskan Odyssey!