Proud to be an American

Every other year, Elmendorf Air Force Base in Anchorage hosts an "Air Show." This year I went with my brother and a few friends. What an AMAZING event. The main attraction this year were the Thunderbirds, a U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron of F-16 Falcons. I really can't think of what to say that could possibly do justice to how awesome it was to see them. I was at the Air Show from opening to closing and I was in awe the entire time. It's such an honor that the Air Force allows us civilians to be a part of the action, even just for a day.

Below: The Thunderbirds Perform

Jamin (my brother) and I in front of the F-22 Raptor

Our neighbors to the East, a member of the Canadian Air Force in his F-18, talking w/ Jamin.

C-17 Globemaster

And so it begins.

Commercial Fishing season is upon us, and with it comes the journey to Naknek. It's exciting to see our crew come together and to see the dynamic of how they work with each other. We really feel like we have a great thing going this year!

The journey will begin tonight at high tide when the Brutus (our boat!) will leave Homer harbor and begin the 1/2 day journey across Cook Inlet to Pedro Bay. The weather has been beautiful, so we're hoping for calm seas. At Pedro, the boat will be pulled from the water and trailered across a mountain pass to be dropped into Pile Bay in Lake Illiamna. From there, they will cross the lake and navigate down the Kvichak (Kwee-jack) river to Naknek, "home port" during the season.

Crew of the F/V Brutus (L to R): Garrett Laner, Jason Benner, Joshua Veldstra

Garrett is new to fishing and to us. He's an avid outdoorsman, like Jason, and a hard worker. Jason met him on a job in Denali National Park this winter.

Joshua fished with us last year and proved to be an excellent worker and a fast learner. He takes ownership in the opperation and always has a positive attitude.

Jason and I are both very excited about this season. We know that we are set up for success and we're praying for provision and safety. I am hoping that our family and friends will remember the guys and pray for them throughout the season too. I would appreciate prayer for myself too, as I am staying home in Palmer this year to "hold down the fort."

Love to you all! Joanie

6 years and counting.

June 1, 2008