Growing up in Michigan, I often found myself dreaming of catching a glimpse of the Aurora. Twice I saw a faint glow low on the northern horizon. That was it. I thought it was beautiful and awe-inspiring then, but I did not know what I would see in my future.

Moving to Alaska has brought many adjustments. Our cross-country skis finally came out of retirement after 6 years of poor Michigan snow seasons. I’ve started mini-mushing: think dog sledding with one dog, using a mini-dog sled called a kicksled. Clementine and I do laps around our neighborhood when conditions are right. It is exhilarating. More on those another time.

Then there is the night sky. Wow! What a show! I have never experienced such a display directly over my head and home. One evening, Tom and I were treated to a beautiful display of the Aurora. The lights were blossoming out right above us and dancing all around. We were in the midst of it. We were completely immersed. I find myself tracking the space weather predictions, setting alarms to run out into the cold night in hopes of catching another Aurora. This time is limited though, as the long days are ahead when night seems fleeting and the sun shines warm.