The Second Most Asked Question...

Since arriving in September, the number one question we've been asked is, "How do you deal with the cold?" To which we reply, "It's simple. You stay inside!" Just like in Texas when it's 100+degrees, you stay inside!

The second most asked question has been, "Have you seen or met Sarah Palin?" One of the last times the Governor had been in Fairbanks was Sept. 11. She was here to see her son, Track, off as he deployed to Iraq. Well, we didn't arrive until Sept. 18 and so we obviously missed her.

Knowing that Todd Palin was participating in the race, Ray got it in his head this week that we were going to the 2009 Iron Dog Race and he WAS going to see Sarah. Not only was he going to see her, he was going to meet her; get her to autograph his Sarah book AND get a photo taken with her.

Well, as most of you know, Ray is particularly blessed. In fact, he'll tell most folks that he leads a rather charmed life. And so you know where this story is heading...

After a day of running errands that included shopping at Sam's to buy food for the Fairbanks Community Food Bank, on behalf of the youth of UCPC who raised $600 Souper Bowl Sunday, and delivering the goods to the Food Bank, we headed to Pike's. Pike's Waterfront Lodge is exactly that--a waterfront lodge. http://www.pikeslodge.com/

Pike's was the The Iron Dog official finish line, but the celebration was another 8 miles into town. After team Minnick/Olstad arrived, the most exciting thing that happened was a plane landed on the river.

It was wild to know we were actually standing on the Chena River!! We were told there was about two feet of snow on the river.

After about half hour hanging around Pike's--and no sighting of the Governor--our group decided to head on into downtown Fairbanks and check out the race celebration.

As we arrived, we were told the Governor was indeed there! Ray and I made our way down to the Noyes Slough and yes, Ray's wishes were granted! He got his book signed and I took his photo with Sarah.

What better gift? Happy Valentine's Day, Ray!!