Ketchikan, Day 5

When I woke up this morning at nine thirty, I grabbed some books and my mp3 player and headed out to the deck. It was quiet, I was one of two people awake, but I didn't realize there was anyone else awake. It was very peaceful to read My Utmost for His Highest and then my Bible while out there, taking in the view of the channel. Every now and then a float plane would go by, or a boat would pass in the channel. Again, I loved it. Gave me a lot of time to delve and to contemplate God's goodness.

Later, I went to the firing range with Tyler. My first time to a firing range ever, and my first time to ever fire a weapon. It took me awhile to get used to the shock waves from the larger weapons, and some of it downright reminded me of home in Africa. (Esp. brought back memories of an early morning jail break that took place a couple of blocks from our home a few years back...) After the initial exposure, I ended up firing three different weapons--two handguns and a rifle--with two different calibers. (I can't remember what caliber, I'll get more details tomorrow when Tyler's awake...) It was nothing big. I've discovered I'm pretty much a pansy when it comes to firearms. I'm okay with that. :) I did, however, admire Tyler's capabilities with the various guns we brought along. He's the man, what can I say?

When we got back from the firing range, the original plan had been to go kayaking later in the afternoon, but that fell through. Instead, Tyler and I went out to a restaurant called The Landing for lunch-ish, and when we got back--waiting for the phone call to signal kayaking--we all sort of napped in the living room. I ended up clambering into the same easy chair as Tyler--I don't think he was absolutely thrilled with it, but he put up with my silliness. Okay, so the chair really wasn't made for two people, but I sacrificed the feeling in my butt and my left arm/hand to snuggle. Geez...what won't people do? (Or should I say, what won't I do? I'm sure there aren't too many other psychos willing to do that...)

We ended up meeting up with Les, Kat and Laura down where Les works and taking a skiff out on the channel. It was a great ride, tons of fun. Lots of splashing and wind. I loved it. I really do like it up here, especially with this family. They make me feel at home. I hope I get to come back and visit again!

After the skiff ride, Tyler and I went to see a waterfall down south before dusk. It was very beautiful, and we climbed around the base a little. I even managed to brave the not-so-frigid Alaskan water to cross the partially submerged rocks. Lovely. I'm obsessed with water and waterfalls, so I thought it was breathtaking. By Victoria or Niagara standards, it wasn't anything huge, but it was beautiful all the same. On the way back into town, we saw a gorgeous sunset. My first gorgeous Alaskan sunset! And when we got back to the house, Tyler and I watched Gattaca--his favorite movie, and it's now way high on my list of faves. I wouldn't protest if I watched it again. :)

Anyhow, church in the morning, and I'm going to early service. Toodles!