Saving Banjo and flying to Alaska

As we were getting ready for our second trip to Alaska, we had a harrowing week. Our 3.5 lb. chihuahua, Banjo, got sick. We took him to our vet at Halfmoon Valley Animal Hospital. After x-rays, they determined that he had something in his lower intestine.  They thought he’d need surgery and they didn’t have any drs that could perform that type. So they called all around and no one had space for him except Pittsburgh Veterinary Hospital. So on Friday (6 days before we were to fly to Alaska), off we went to Pittsburgh. Long story shortened a bit … Banjo had to stay at the hospital for 4 days so they could give him fluids to try to pass his obstruction, which we know now was sand.  After many phone calls with the drs there and lots of worrying, we picked our little Banjo up and brought him home. He was very happy to be home but still needed some recovery time. Luckily for us Kristen has taken care of many sick dogs, so off Banjo went to stay with Kristen. 

While we were waiting to fly from O'Hare Airport to Seattle, Kristen sent me this picture and said how much better Banjo was doing. Wow, that was such a load off me. 

So now I can enjoy our trip more. We had a long day flying but finally arrived in Anchorage 7 pm their time. They are 4 hours behind us. Linda took this picture at the airport. Notice the mountains in the distance. 

We stayed the night in Anchorage and left for Talkeetna early Thursday morning. 

Our first stop along the way was to hike to Thunder Bird Falls. The falls drop 200 ft. 

After that 2+ mile hike, we continued up the highway and we’re able to see these majestic mountains. It was a gray day with lots of fog. 

Since we want to visit Denali National Park, we decided to stay in the small town, Talkeetna, just south of there. Talkeetna is an eccentric little town where we will stay for the next two days at the Fun and Funky Blue Moon cabin. The outside may be a little scary looking but it is so cute on the inside. Just what I had in mind when I think of Alaska. 

Very artsy town with cute shops, and especially a quilt shop!  That was a pleasant surprise. So many beautiful fabrics with the Alaskan theme. While Linda and I browsed and bought fabrics and kits, Bill went to get a beer. 

Adventure awaits tomorrow.