Adventure Alaska

A Comforting Thought !

2012-02-18T12:44:00.000-09:00

Alaska Winter Sun (Photo by Doug)

To understand the center of our physical universe, the sun, is to unlock the secret of our emotional universe, love. Regardless of conditions which may temporarily or for a season diminish or obscure brightness and warmth both remain constant. To experience one is to give hope for the other. - Doug

Adventure Alaska Ltd

Man Snares More Than Bears - His own Indignity

2012-01-25T13:25:00.001-09:00

Alaska Brown Bear (Photo by Doug Myers)

Recent proposals by the Alaska State Board of Game include the expansion of indiscriminate snaring of bears so that more moose would be available to kill by hunters. The questionable practice places bait in a bucket hanging from a tree. When the bear reaches for the bucket a cable closes around its front leg. When discovered by the trapper the bear is shot following a lengthy and painful attempt at survival.
Former Alaska Governor Tony Knowles suggests the Board of Game's recommendation does not follow practices of good wildlife management. These practices should include a priority for the resource, science and ethics, and broad support of the people of Alaska. According to former Governor Knowles, "This is nuts where we're going, . . . This is a real train wreck that's going to happen in terms of our wildlife management policies." - Doug

Read more: http://www.adn.com/2012/01/12/2260779/ex-governor-opposes-alaska-bear.html#storylink=cpy

Adventure Alaska Ltd

From Shame to Shambles

2011-11-25T12:40:00.005-09:00

Alaskan Congressman Don Young
(ADN Newswire Photo)

Drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) proponent Don Young may have further disgraced his political office and appointed position on the House Natural Resources Committee. Some, if not many, Alaskan constituents are embarrassed by their Congressman's continued grizzled temperament when representing the State they love. - Doug

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Adventure Alaska Ltd

Thanks to Give !

2011-11-23T11:44:00.005-09:00

A Duckling Delima
(Photo by Doug)

Sometimes we depend on the love of another during our greatest need. Be thankful !

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

Doug

Adventure Alaska Ltd

We The People (Native Alaskans)

2011-11-06T12:47:00.005-09:00

Pebble Mine vs Bristol Bay Native People
(Photo by Doug)

In consideration of “We the People”, by a 280-246 vote, borough voters last month approved a ban on large-scale resource extraction, including mining, that would “destroy or degrade” salmon habitat. (However,) The Alaska attorney general’s office sued, claiming the initiative usurps and conflicts with the state’s authority to govern management and development of mineral resources. Refer below: - Doug

http://www.adn.com/2011/11/04/2154012/northern-dynasty-ceo-blasts-anti.html#storylink=misearch#ixzz1csZVtP2m

Adventure Alaska Ltd

Color of Change

2011-10-12T12:43:00.003-08:00

Alaska’s Mt. Susitna “The Sleeping Lady”, Cook Inlet

(Photo by Colette Alkalla Myers)

Autumn in Alaska offers the spectacular in seasonal scenery. For some Alaskans who are thoughtfully salivating for winter’s main course it is a visual horsd’oeuvre. For others, it is a stimulus to an upcoming winter diet of warm sand, surf, and sun block lotion on the “outside”.

- Doug

PURSUING ALASKA'S UNTAMED, "Unity in Diversity"

Adventure Alaska Ltd

BEAR Essentials

2011-09-28T11:23:00.005-08:00

Lower Russian Lake (Top Photo) and Russian River (Bottom Photo), Kenai Peninsula, Alaska
(Photos by Doug)

During a recent adventure trek into the Kenai Peninsula’s mountains I again embraced the wild in wilderness. A lengthy hike to near the source of the Russian River provided spectacular Alaska autumn back country scenery. A picturesque Lower Russian Lake above a cascading waterfall led to a pristine glacier view beyond the lake. Gathering wood for remote log cabin cooking and warmth from the lake in the top photo, and gathering the richest of Nature’s provisions (salmon) from the lower river in the bottom photo illustrate the common and cooperative pursuits of wilderness self-determination by man and beast. - Doug

ALASKA – Fishing The UNTAMED

Adventure Alaska Ltd

To Bear or Not to Bear

2011-09-22T12:12:00.001-08:00

Three Alaska brown bear (grizzly) families made an appearance each late afternoon/early evening to feast until there remained no appetite. (Photo by Doug)

Red (sockeye) salmon during final spawning phase. Because the salmon’s energy is depleted from a non feeding migration pilgrimage and subsequent metamorphic change it is easy picking for the plundering brown bear. (Photo by Doug)

The Kenai Peninsula is a mecca for spawning Alaska/Pacific salmon, resident brown bear, fishermen, and visitors. While Alaska’s short summer season is alluring to the adventure enthusiast mid September is especially enticing. During my recent adventure excursion colorful displays of autumn gold (leaves), spawning red (salmon), and shimmering grizzled brown fur (bear) were visually captivating. Seduced by this ensemble of stimulating colors I attempted to add to the charm by casting for silver (salmon). However, the number of spawning red salmon was incalculable, leaving little space in the search for silver (salmon) deposits. The clear river’s sub-surface appeared as a major freeway cluttered by rush hour traffic painted in red that extended beyond the limit of my view. Additionally, an accumulation of scores of salmon carcasses carpeted the river’s bottom, giving witness to a successful sacrificial return “home”. The shallow river provided easy pickings for several ponderous grizzlies. In the photo above one of the eight furry fanciers of high protein on the fin saw plenty of red that was as good as gold. - Doug

For more information and photo viewing: Facebook – ADVENTURE ALASKA

and/or ALASKA-Fishing The UNTAMED, and/or Adventure Alaska Ltd

Heaven's Gate Discovered

2011-09-15T14:27:00.004-08:00

Upper Kenai River Destination - Skilak Lake
(Photo by Doug)

My previous blog, Floating the Highway to Heaven, suggested a grand adventure ending in glorious style. The float trip began several miles upriver at Cooper Landing. Wilderness habitat and wildlife welcomed our journey through smooth to rapid current ending at a wilderness lake shoreline. Sections of the river were colored red by scores of sockeye salmon nearing a final spawning tribute. Grizzly brown bear were seen along the shore observing the same colorful progression with a salivating interest. Our shore lunch at serene Skilak Lake was a pristine setting for more than food (photo above). My next blog will reveal my encounters with 3 families of brown bear on the same river a week later. - Doug

PURSUING THE UNTAMED, "Highway to Heaven"

http://AdventureAlaska-Ltd.com

Floating the Highway to Heaven

2011-09-01T13:46:00.004-08:00

Upper Kenai River
(Photo by Doug)

While rafters for fishing and pleasure enjoy the upper Kenai River the extent of summer, by Labor Day the greater runs of salmon have ended. The river has few fishermen along its banks to distract from one of Alaska’s most scenic wilderness displays. Wildlife using the river’s edge no longer retreat from human distraction and fall colors emerge as spectacular. I will be floating this section of the Kenai River from Cooper Landing at Lake Kenai to Skilak Lake below the canyon on September 8. My next blog will provide an account of the special occasion. A silver-lining may result from our effort to catch coho (silver) salmon, the last of the salmon species to return to the river from Cook Inlet. - Doug

PURSUING THE UNTAMED, “Highway to Heaven”

Adventure Alaska Ltd

BEARing Success

2011-08-13T12:44:00.002-08:00

A return trip to the upper Kenai River’s edge provided excitement other than the surge of reds (sockeye salmon) attempting to out-muscle rod and reel. Patiently fishing the clear flowing turquoise water we were amazed and entertained by the appearance of a large male brown bear fishing for a breakfast of salmon and eggs on the opposite shoreline. At mid-day a mother brown bear with 2 first year cubs crossed the river in our direction a short distance downriver. Late in the day a male brown bear made a silent appearance without the comfort of distance between us. Suddenly appearing from behind the furry dark brown figure was edged in blonde by a lowered sun shinning from behind. The symbol of Alaska’s wild approached our fishing location apparently smelling fish on stringers in the water near our feet. The contemplative bear, however, seemed as nervous as the few of us who momentarily were uncertain of a cherished memory outcome. Our good fortune was that the seemingly transient male was also a guest to that location. The local resident bear would have been much more aggressive considering the opportunity of fast food delivery laying near our feet. – Doug

Alaska Cache Newsletter

ADVENTURE ALASKA (Facebook)

Omega 3 - The Old Fashioned Way

2011-08-02T16:49:00.004-08:00

Kenai River Reds (Sockeye Salmon) 2011
(Photo by Doug)

Alaska's Kenai River is blessed annually with two separate runs of sockeye salmon. The red fleshed piscatorial acrobats challenge the determination and skill of anglers fishing this renown Alaska river. Bald eagles, bear, and seagulls also monitor and manage the river's shoreline during summer's season of plenty. - Doug

For additional photo viewing go to: ADVENTURE ALASKA (Facebook Page)

Adventure Alaska Ltd

The Color Fear

2011-07-20T11:36:00.004-08:00

. . . Illustrator artists know the color of fear to be a dark shade that can be pervasive in its harsh effect on other colors, leaving an undesirable outcome. When the color of fear is applied to the canvas of life what was once cheerful becomes dreary. A life composition painted with colors of fear, criticism, control, selfish ambition, and failed promises produces a lonely landscape.

In contrast, magic is discovered by the sensitive artist who blends pleasurable feelings with colors, shapes, sounds, actions, or words. A generous mixture of affectionately warm colors blended with the brilliance of honor and good faith are inspirational to the soulful eye. For the courteous adult, companionship combines simple pleasures with dedication. For the heartfelt lover, it is the blending of trusted feelings with devoted ambition. To feel enthusiasm, compassion, and joy in living rather than the fear of risking is to be more fully alive. . . - Doug

Excerpt from

Wild Discoveries - An Alaska Odyssey

"Epilogue, The Art Of Living - A Simple Matter"

Kenai Mountain High

2011-07-06T12:50:00.005-08:00

Kenai Peninsula’s Skilak Lake Below
(Photo by Doug)

From the upper Kenai River base to a higher alpine lake managed by beaver, my angler buddy and I chose an alternative to the intermediate period between early and late runs of red (sockeye) salmon in the river. A strenuous hike up a wilderness trail bordered by ferns, wild flowers, and bear scat teased our senses for a destination reward packaged with pristine beauty. Upon arrival an alpine beaver dam made placid a shallow lake cradled by dramatic mountain slopes that extended to a beaver lodge on the opposite end. In crystal clear water Arctic grayling welcomed an assortment of small surface fishing flies. Although not the robust fight of red salmon below, the beautifully colored fish fought proportionally with the same purposeful intensity. Upon release fragile sore mouths may have cautioned the piscatorial mini monarchs of how temporal paradise can be. – Doug

http://AdventureAlaska-Ltd.com

Natural High

2011-06-26T12:08:00.004-08:00

Alaska’s Kenai River Beacon of Hope
(Photo by Doug)

As a fish locator expert, the seagull could only watch my adrenaline charged casts aimed to intercept the non-predator/feeding red (sockeye) salmon fresh from 3-4 years at sea.

This past week saw a dramatic fluctuation in numbers of red salmon scurrying against formidable currents of the Upper Kenai River. Which day we chose to drop-cast into the turquoise colored water near shoreline determined the outcome. Only when knowledge that a biomas of fish had recently charged into the river’s mouth at Cook Inlet was confidence gained. Otherwise, it was a day for photography and soulful renewal.

Because of the river’s length, including large Skilak Lake midway, determined reds that reached the pristine Upper Kenai section had divided into returning regiments of varying numbers. When viewed in the clear water the streaming sockeye appeared as passive participants to the watchful eyes of the patient seagull, but not the seagull’s alone. Bright, picturesque days provided easy spotting of the salmon’s sleek images by both seagull and fisherman. The sunlight’s penetration of the pristine water conditions exposed the groups of fish migrating through sparkling shades of emerald.

It was an occasion for one of Nature’s best performances. An orchestra of wilderness instruments and musicians included habitat view, weather conditions, seagulls, eagles, fish, and fishermen. Intermittent squawking by competing seagulls and interludes of dark wingspan shadows moving across shoreline rocks and water surface by gliding bald eagles punctuated Nature’s performing arts display as both gave reconnaissance its best effort from above. On this occasion only nearby fresh scat left by a resident bear gave witness to its part in the wilderness ensemble. – Doug

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http://adventurealaska-ltd.com/newsletter/index.htm

Alaska's Longest Work Day

2011-06-22T11:16:00.002-08:00

Summer Solstice 2011
(Photo by Doug)

A young beaver is pictured above working next to my Anchorage residence at 11:30 pm during the longest day of the calendar year (June 21). The industrious far north critter's work schedule is accelerated during the hours of twilight and dusk. In Alaska those hours are extended throughout the night during the Summer Solstice transition period. - Doug

http://AdventureAlaska-Ltd.com

Fathers Sleep But Never Die

2011-06-16T20:22:00.003-08:00

Father's Day 2011

Life and Memory of Curtis Oliver Myers

Because of my loving father I will always recognize the radiant, gentle smile and giving hand of a devoted heart. Dad knew love's reward through an enduring spiritual resolve of generosity, patience, and sacrifice. For this special day of honor I again celebrate by recognizing the continuing life of my loving father in my resolve of inspiration and dedication. - A grateful son, Doug

http://AdventureAlaska-Ltd.com

A Simple Matter

2011-06-09T11:52:00.003-08:00

From the sketch pad how we are to live appears a simple matter. Unfortunately, the “simple” is too often a gift for children alone. It is fundamental for the unrestrained and fearless young child to feel fully. However, for most adults repeated restraints have replaced the trust in innocence with a cautiousness that accompanies suspicion. The demanding and complex adult living experience built on aspirations of success can diminish joyful experiences extended from the past. In other words, frustration may occur when living becomes an attempt at mixing and blending unrelated paints rather than applying separately one or two basic colors. Additionally, colors used can become subdued by other influences. For example, colors of dread and fear come in many unpleasant (dark) shades that often permeate all other colors. Because of these suppressive influences what was once cheerful becomes dismal. In contrast, magic is discovered by the sensitive artist who blends pleasurable feeling with colors, shapes, sounds, or words. For the heartfelt lover, it is the pursuit of feeling blended with ambition. For the affectionate adult, companionship combines simple pleasures of the child with the dedication of the concerned parent. To experience the “simple” is to feel fully, or unrestrained, which is to be fully alive. Realizing who we are by what we feel (e.g., happy, loving, or sad, depressed) rather than by what we do (e.g., accomplishments or failures) may encourage a simpler and more satisfying connection. It seems so simple to imagine! – Doug

Soulful Snippets, “The Art of Living – A Simple Matter”

http://adventurealaska-ltd.com/newsletter/index.htm

Alaska's Royal Procession

2011-05-16T14:03:00.002-08:00

(Photo by Doug)

Annual return of kings to local rivers anticipated during late May. Invitations not required – only a fishing license! Avid anglers hopeful of a personal encounter using rod and reel. - Doug

To learn more: Alaska Cache Newsletter

2011-04-22T11:08:00.001-08:00

Celebrating the spring season is a delightful occasion. Joyful cheers are universal, whether it be in recognition of the power and hope resulting from Christ's resurrection within the Christian community or the reinvestment in a New Year of opportunity by the Buddhist community. For all, it is a time to be glad. In climates of dramatic seasonal change the spiritual understanding of victory over death is declared each spring season when the natural world reaffirms this biblical promise.

In Alaska ecstasy occurs when Nature transforms a frozen, hibernating condition to one of renewal through movement and new life. While winter's cold splendor may be alluring, only the resurrection event of spring offers a warm embrace while preserving the future. Alaskans know the certainty of Nature's springtime promise and the aliveness it provides. Happy Easter! - Doug

http://adventurealaska-ltd.com

'Breaking Up' - Annual Occurance in Alaska

2011-04-15T09:28:00.002-08:00

Springtime in Alaska releases winter’s icy grip. Breakup during spring is a dramatic clashing of natural forces. From snow covered frozen surfaces to fragmentation and floating ice, resulting moonscape appearing inlets and rivers suggest a mother’s duress at delivery. The transformation to summer’s ecstasy is a time of celebrated renewal. - Doug

From Pursuing the Untamed, "Unity in Diversity"

http://adventurealaska-ltd.com

Alaska Winter's 9th Inning Rally

2011-04-05T12:44:00.003-08:00

(Photo by Doug - 03/05/11)

Alaska’s winter mounted a late-inning rally today. Spring seemed to have the season in-hand when winter came from near elimination for a surprise performance. While sentiment remains with spring’s promise of success, a final inning rally by winter was applauded. - Doug

ALASKA CACHE NEWSLETTER

Alaska Under Siege !

2011-04-01T14:45:00.002-08:00

Area Near Proposed Pebble Mine
(Photo by Doug)

Pristine Alaska Under Siege !

Pro-active consideration: Alaska’s Bristol Bay is being threatened with an irresponsible plan for a huge pit mine. Renown wild salmon and trout fisheries flow next to the proposed site. To learn more go to my ‘Alaska Cache Newsletter’ at: http://adventurealaska-ltd.com/newsletter/index.htm

Alaska View of Moon's Nearest Visit

2011-03-22T13:15:00.002-08:00

Alaska March Moon 2011
(Photo by Doug)

Anchorage view of full moon's recent visit above Chugach Mountains - Doug

http://adventurealaska-ltd.com

Alaska Winter Escape

2011-03-17T12:13:00.002-08:00

(Photo by Doug)

Iditarod Sled Dog Race finish line at Nome just became more than 1,100 miles (salude). - Doug

Alaska's Wild Discoveries

2011-01-25T12:48:00.003-09:00

Excerpt From Doug's eBook

Wild Discoveries - An Alaska Odyssey

Epilogue ~ A Last Frontier ~

Pursuing Alaska’s valued resource was once an effort to line the prospector’s purse with gold; now, it is to feel the pulse of renewal through discovery. Where wild remains a guarded treasure, life’s adventurous quest reaches beyond the security of enlightened dogma, polished promises, or glistening stones. Modern day frontiersmen explore regions that transcend geographic and social boundaries. These are the vanguards of a soulful journey. Curious and courageous, they know pleasure’s fullness in pursuing the sensational. For the adventurer seeking footprints to follow, one small step or one giant leap requires less travel than to the moon.

Heartfelt experiences are coveted by all who seek a serendipitous path to travel. I am grateful for untamed horizons that have stirred to action a curious quest. Spontaneous reaching out and taking in has led to greater aliveness. To feel deeply is to know a compassionate, purposeful connection to the world, and is nourishing to the soul. Yielding to passion’s call to surrender expands the boundaries of both courage and pleasure, and is the invitation and destination of the heart.

Recommend Sampling eBook:

Amazon KDP or Smashwords

Serenity - Alaska's Winter

2011-01-20T17:07:00.002-09:00

(Photo by Doug)

In Alaska winter's low angled sun sprays a spectacle of splendor.

Alaska Cache Newsletter

ALASKA - Study of Contrasts

2011-01-12T13:37:00.003-09:00

The Alaska sport fisherman is a study of contrasts. He or she understands the difference between a successful catch and no catch. For the fortunate angler the outdoor experience transcends the fishing outcome while maintaining no contradiction. For the unfortunate, however, success is the only reward while risking failure and emptiness. For these who prize only the destination, a joyful journey rests beyond the length of the fisherman’s cast.

All sporting events share equally in the culmination of both ecstasy and agony, i.e., for every winner there must be a loser. Experienced Alaskans are grounded in the knowledge that whatever exists its opposite is equally true, and therefore also exists. To understand the nature of opposites is to know Nature’s genius. Alaska’s spawning salmon are guided by Nature’s necessity, requiring death in order to provide life for the species. Although differences my appear subtle or extreme embracing all in a harmonious blend provides a more gratifying life experience.

Douglas C. Myers, Author/Artist

Recommends:

http://adventurealaska-ltd.com/book/bookinfo.htm

Passion's Call

2011-01-10T12:43:00.002-09:00

Passion's Call is to seek pleasure's greatest reward, a soulful journey. The heart desires no other destination!

Douglas C. Myers, Author/Artist

Wild Discoveries - An Alaska Odyssey

Alaska Adventure eBooks

Unity in Diversity

2011-01-04T13:14:00.000-09:00

Melodious orchestral music reveals the necessity of dissimilarities in creating purposeful harmony. To understand the nature of opposites is to know Nature’s genius. Picturesque Alaska exemplifies Nature’s requisite for living by extreme measures.

Douglas C. Myers, Author/Artist

http://adventurealaska-ltd.com

New Beginning 2011

2010-12-30T19:58:00.002-09:00

New Year - New Life
(Photo by Doug)

- Fresh – Exciting – Seeking – Pursuing – Discovering – Embracing – Trusting – Surrendering – Limitless -

http://adventurealaska-ltd.com

Alaska's Winter No Picnic

2010-12-27T13:49:00.004-09:00

(Photo by Doug)

Photo taken in Anchorage on Winter Solstice (December 21, 2010) at 3pm near sunset.

City and Christmas lights, however, create a shimmering scene on the snow during the long dark hours. - Doug

http://adventurealaska-ltd.com