Alaska the First

The first flickers of Alaska were lectured - a mossy ground that upon footfall created a commotion, a locomotion of mosquitos - not average but bat-like. What young person wouldn’t squirm at the frozen imagery? The missionary went on to say, Alaska is the longest bar in the world. I’d say! The coastline being about 26,000 miles long. Alaska the first, tucked away in a trove. But those who ventured out to sea, cruising the inner passage, released fresh scent of salt, waterfalls, hidden vistas. So much so, that upon booking my first Alaskan cruise, I was afraid that the bearer of such Utopian hopes might be overdoing it, such as the spoilers of a movie where you let out a sigh, disappointed by the letdown. But, Alaska is no letdown. Neither is the Yukon. Truly spirited places exist, ethereal beauty that never lets your camera rest. Your eyes pull the magic string attached to your hands, and the bulbs flash like the paparazzi on overdrive. The wilderness air with its rustic cabins and wildlife invite an out-of-body experience. You feel like your weary legs are oxygenated - you can hike the Yukon trail, mount the Denali peaks and speak to God eye-to-eye. Alaska the first, you frightened me. You still stare, but I’ve conquered your rapids, stuck out my tongue at bears and enjoyed my baked Alaska. As the terminator loudly declares, “I’ll be back” I’ll drink to that… 3/2/2019