Wynn Nature Center

The Wynn Nature Center is part of the Center for Alaskan Studies that runs Peterson Bay trips.
The first thing that was noticed at this center was the Monks Hood. This is an extremely poisonous plant, even when touched or brushed against. After we picked up some maps and other info we were off. As we took the trail system it was not long and we saw a MOOSE!! We watched and heard her eating and chomping away on bushes. So as not to disturb her we decided to take an alternate trail. But then Jim heard stomping and felt the ground vibrate and we realized she was following us. So, we stood still for a bit and let the moose find the trail she wanted. Then we were able to get back on the trail we had originally planned. We followed this trail and came upon some grouse. They slowed us down some as so we wanted to watch. We then followed the trail to the overlook. From here the view was of some glaciers in the distance and close up of the fields of flowers and trees. Sitting at the overlook took time as it was very peaceful there and the views were exceptional.

After the overlook we took the trail back to the center. There will be pictures on this entry and one more to cover everything.

Sandy

Homer August 9 and 10

On Friday afternoon I spent my time at the parking lot of Ocean and Island Visitor Center. Jim and Sandy had a quiet day with it ending with a short birding tour given by the visitor center. They saw some eagle nests and other birding hot spots.

The first thing Sandy and Jim did was to visit the Homer's Farmers Market. Very busy and a fun time. Later on Saturday I was parked at the Carl E Wynn Nature Center. Jim and Sandy then took a great hike on the trail system. I will let Sandy explain what that experience was like. There are quite a few pictures, this entry will start them.

Sugar

A Day At Peterson Bay

Jim and Sandy got up this morning at 6 a.m. to get me packed up so we could head to The Spit. While I hung out at the parking lot they had a great day. No Pictures for now. 1. This day cannot be explained in words or pictures, as so much was seen and done. 2. A disposable film camera was used for this trip. Sandy will explain all that day encompassed.

Sugar

The day started with a boat ride out to Peterson Bay. Peterson Bay is across Katchemak Bay from Homer. The boat was the Seabird. We have actually been on this boat two other times. Hard to believe out of all the boats in Homer we have only been on the Seabird! This trip was arranged through the Center for Alaskan Studies. The weather was very sunny in the morning but changed throughout the day to light rain, windy and clouds. After the boat dropped us off on the floating dock we had to take a human powered raft with about 12 of us over to the field station. This raft moves through the water by pulling on the rope. Everyone helps. Soon there will be a dock that boats can pull up to. Then the raft won't be used anymore. That is too bad as the raft is part of the experience. First we took a hike to the tide pools. The hike was beautiful and still pretty wet from the rain from the night before. We saw many sea stars and octopus too. The tide was at
-1.9 at 10:30 but then high tide was 20 at about 4. So, as this day progressed the tide came in. Tide pooling was fun,we saw lots of small sea creatures and enjoyed being in the wilderness. After the hike back we had lunch while we learned more about the native people of the area and how the rocks were developed. Then back to the dock to catch the boat over to St Augustine's for kayaking. The kayaking trip was one of the best we have done with a guide. Our guide Nick took us back to coves that are pretty much dry during a low tide. As it was after 2 p.m. the coves had filled in. We got really close to a sea otter and a harbor seal. There was some light rain and a bit of wind. After the kayak trip we took the Seabird back to Homer. We ended the day with dinner at Boardwalk Fish and Chips. Boy we were hungry. We have eaten here on all of our trips to Homer, so this makes the 3rd time.

Sandy

Outside Temps

Sandy was looking at the weather and noticed that it is 56 in Monument, CO, near our home. It is 61 here in Homer, AK. Warmer here than Colorado?

Strange,

Sugar

Homer Day 3

Jim and Sandy were going to ride bikes to The Spit, but the call was for heavy rain. So, I got to go along. Once I was parked the weather was not too bad, just cloudy and a few sprinkles. Jim and Sandy enjoyed walking on the beach as the tide came in. For the most part the rain has been very different here. It just sorta comes down straight, sometimes a light mist and other times heavier. I am sure when it is windy then the rain is probably not so misty. Those that live here don't seem to react to the rain in any way. This was most noticeable at the music festival, as on Sunday it rained pretty hard and many did not even put up their hoods on their ran jackets. They just went on enjoying the show.

Pictures from the beach walk,

Sugar

Homer Day 2

Jim let me loose from the campground this morning and we took a drive and also did some necessary shopping. Jim and Sandy walked around the Homer Spit and then the Island and Ocean Visitor Center, which includes the Bishop Beah. They took some good pictures. After a stop and Mcd's off to the grocery store. The stop at Mcd's was the first fast food place Jim and Sandy have been to since May. The only other place was a Subway in Seward. They also watched their first movie on Netflix since they left Wyoming. Time goes so slow at times, yet each day speeds by. It seems like years ago we all left Colorado, but before we knew it was time for today's dinner.

Tomorrow is bike riding day, so I will stay here at the campground. Cloudy most of the day with some rain at times.

Enjoying Homer,

Sugar

Homer

we are at a small RV area called Fishermans Resort. Very central. Here are a few pictures from around the area.

Sugar