June 23, 2011

Daily Report from the Journalism Committee

The Beach by Allison

SCREECH!!! The sound of sea gulls filled the air as we all hopped out of the van to go to the beach. The air was freezing cold with the sun behind the clouds, and when we first stepped out of the vans the beach looked almost deserted, but still somehow it was peaceful and relaxing. Just by looking at the water I could tell it would be freezing, but we went in anyway. The first few steps into the lake were uncomfortably cold, but we got used to it very quickly. The sand in the water was smooth with no rocks or shells, and once I was used to the cold, the water was actually very fun. Later we sat on the rocky beach relaxed. The air was still cool, but I had become accustomed to it and was just having fun. We had time to write in our journals while we were there, and once everyone spread out and started writing, the whole beach became quiet. Again there was a peaceful and calm feeling around us. When it was time to leave I thought about how relaxing our trip to the beach had been. Even thought the weather wasn't sunny and hot like we had hoped, we had still had such a fun afternoon.

A Day At The Beach by Kyle

Today was very fun. Once everyone had showered and eaten their breakfast we hoped in our vans and were headed out to Chena Lake. Van rides are beginning to become more fun because we are learning more about our friends in them. Once we got to the lake we voted on who found the most interesting fact at the museum. Most kids were debating weather to get in the water or not. The daring kids who went in the water defiantly regretted it. Well at least I did. The water was cold and the air temperature was colder. The sun wasn't out so it took longer to dry off. All in all the trip to the beach was fun. It may not have been the best weather but kids found other things to do. After the beach we loaded back in our vans and drove to the Alaskan pipeline. I was astounded at how big it was. Everyone took advantage of the picture opportunity. It was also a moment of realization for some people. America is really dependant on oil. What will happen if it runs out? No one knows the answer to these questions yet but eventually we will have to figure them out. After we had finished at the pipeline we were tired. But the day wasn't over yet. Vans went to pick up personal essentials like snacks and anything else, mostly snacks. Some kids got treated to Cold Stone Creamery ice cream. Luckily I was in one of those vans. After we had finished our ice cream. Our van headed back to the campground ate a dinner of pancakes and sausage. Then once again we finished with hug time then bed.

Today Doing Laundry by Tyler

Today was a day of catching up. After breakfast, we had a first for the trip: we did our laundry. Though for many of us this (doing laundry) was a first, it went smoothly. Afterwards, we spent time at the Harley store looking at souvenirs for our families and ourselves. The virtual remainder of the day was spent packing and driving from Fairbanks back to Grizzly Bear (in Denali). When we were driving, we were all immersed in beauty once again. Though much was not done, it was a fulfilling day due to the great sites in the wonderful state of Alaska.