Alaska and working

So I went on my trip to Alaska. It was amazing! I saw several things that brought me back to my days as a biology major and I just couldn't get enough. The ecosystem there is totally different than anything I've ever seen. In one area there is a thick conifer forest, and in another nothing but taiga and tundra. We saw several creatures, critters, and buggers which kept us entertained, except for the mosquitoes! We saw Mt. mckinley, the highest peak in north america. There were a few down sides to the trip: 1. we didn't do nearly as much hiking or backpacking as I thought we would due to rain and cold 2. there were a few incidents that just left me with a bad taste in my mouth about a certain individual. All in all it was a good trip and a few of us plan on going back next year.

I have spent some time thinking about it and I emailed my first sergeant today about getting mobilized for 6 months if I can. I figure it's the best way to work and make money since I've been promoted a few times. It would be work filled with practicing and performing and hopefully in the off-time I'd be able to climb/kayak (once I get one)/hike/backpack and just generally chill out and save money for more travels. It seems like a sweet deal so keep your fingers crossed for me. Nothing too unique and interesting; just a summer update. I'll be driving back up to the river thursday morning and have a moderate work week ahead of me.

I never thought I'd say this but I am looking forward to the end of the river season. It's been a lot of fun but I don't really make a lot of money, which translates to my not being able to travel and do fun trips. So here's to a fun first season but to better money in the next few months.

On an unrelated note: An acquaintance of mine from the climbing wall at UAB died last week. His name was David and he was an ER surgical resident. He was always a nice guy to me and a great climber.