Discovered a New Size of Cedar Plank for Nativity Base

Here in Homer, AK, there is a unique grocery store called “Save U More.”  It reminds me very much of shopping in Asia.  An odd assortment of unusual items…but lot’s of good stuff.  I like this new size of cedar plank that I’ve used in the past for my Oregon nativities – seems to fit especially well for the ones I donate to the annual Arctic Museum (located on the Western Oregon University campus) Salmon Bake fundraiser auction.
For the Alaskan crèche I’m currently creating I think I’ll need three boards…

Ash Creek Nativities - Alaska Creche Prototypes - Walrus

Brought some air dry clay with me to work on prototypes for the Ash Creek Nativities Alaskan creche that has been floating around in my head since last year when I was in Anchorage...
We're staying in a house near the head of Kachemak Bay until mid-May.  The house happens to be FULL of charming animal folk art...I'm trying this guy out as my version of  walrus...amazing how small their heads really are compared to that big lumpy body.  Love the whiskers!

Homesteading in Homer, AK

We're settled in our new rental house....out towards the head of Kachemak Bay.  Has a woodstove, but it seems a little finicky.  After burning wood in the winter for 20 years in Oregon and the woodstove on my folks ranch in New River, it just seems like it should be easier than this. 

Had snow today and it was cold in a.m.  Real cold.  Keeping a wary eye on the moose munching in the bushes I went out for something to use as kindling.  I would give alot for my cord of pinon in Prescott.  Can't really tell if they firewood is green, the chimney maybe needs to be cleaned, or what would help. 

Actually locating the fireplace tools would help...:)

 

A photo of "kindling"...first time I've used a potato masher & spatula to tend a fire....

A Quilt Scrap Jackrabbit Cheers on the Iditarod

Hoping that this Quilt Scrap Jack gets back down to the Lower 48 to share some Easter fun...

 

..but he sure enjoyed Maile's first Iditarod!

 

North to Alaska!

I have a temporary position as a "Granny Nanny" with four-month-old granddaughter in Homer, Alaska.  Our daughter has a 12-week contract as a traveling nurse there and Daddy is out to sea.

Claire asked if I could fit the play mat into my luggage in Arizona.  Well, of course, I can!  Grandmas can do anything.  If TSA opens my duffle bag this thing will spring out, spewing jungle animals everywhere.  I wonder if it counts as a dangerous item.
I usually pride myself on traveling light...

Blind Sled Dog

A heart-warming article about a blind sled dog who thrives with the help of his brother.

When I was in Alaska a year ago I had the amazing opportunity to volunteer at the Iditarod, checking in the mushers.  It was thrilling!

Poncho and Gonzo

Of course, I also came home with a wonderful Alaskan-themed nativity that included sled dogs.