Alaska Trip March 3-4, 2006--Homer, Day 1

Well, Marci, Dad and I made it to Homer. It was a long haul, and we're tired, but we're here. We started in Sac at 7 PM, and wouldn't you know it, I forgot my flippin' money clip and ID. Not a great way to start a trip. The guy at the Alaska Airlines ticket counter made it sound like I was going to have an awful time getting through security, but it wasn't too bad. I got taken aside and patted down, and then a security guy had to search the inside of my carry-on travel bag. That was it! Good thing I had already ditched my portable thermo-nuclear device in Dad's check-through baggage!

After a short flight to Portland, we got off the plane and grabbed a quick bite to eat, then it was back on the plane for the 3 1/2 hour leg to Anchorage. The flight was uneventful. I tried to nap, but in those sardine-tight seats it's damn near impossible.

Once in Anchorage, we found the ERA flight check in counter, which reportedly didn't open until 4 AM. Perfect time to check into some sleep on the airport's fine "sleeping" benches (with the help of IPod). I think we all managed a couple of hours of sleep before being woken up by the "Yamal-Russia" Arctic Winter Games team. All 30-some odd members of the team managed to get in the line at ERA before us (rather, they camped out in front of the check-in counter), which resulted in a long wait once we woke up around 5:15 AM or so. Finally, we got to check in, and the lady at the ERA counter gave me some attitude about not having an ID. She got to search my bag as well (but only my check-in bag!?), and we were on our way.

The flight to Homer in the puddle jumper airplane was quite nice, but not at all quiet (Note to self: bring earplugs next time) We landed safely in Homer and my cousin Ken and our family friend Sandy Mazen were there to greet us. After a trip to Ken's house (where his girlfriend Linda fixed us breakfast of sausage and eggs), we watched the sun rise over Kachemak Bay. Spectacular. And then our day began...