Category: Travel

Writer’s Log – June 19, 2023

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Jim Kepler at Starbucks

Celebrating Sweet Sixteen and Beating the Heat

Hello friends! Today, June 19, 2023, the United States is celebrating Juneteenth, a significant day in Texas and United States history.

But amidst the festivities, there’s an even more special occasion—my granddaughter’s sweet sixteenth birthday!

Let’s dive into the events of the day, the scorching Dallas heat, and my plans that lie ahead this week.

Battling the Extreme Heat:

As I stepped outside, the oppressive heat hit me like a wave. With the temperature expected to reach a blistering 99°F (37°C) and a heat index of 117°F (47°C), it was crucial to stay cool and hydrated. I adorned myself in light-colored clothing. Take advantage of air conditioning as an ally in this relentless battle against the heat.

A Day in Motion:

Bright and early at 7 AM, the alarm on my trusty iWatch roused me from slumber. After my morning devotionals, I embarked on my routine household chores. Taking out the recycling, trash, and water table box for collection, I got my day off to a productive start. Ensuring I took my medications, shaving, and dressing in light colors, I headed to Walmart at 8 AM to conquer the day’s errands.

Finding Respite:

In search of respite from the scorching outdoors, I retreated to Starbucks. With the air conditioning providing much-needed relief, I settled in with a tall blonde roast coffee. It was the perfect atmosphere to indulge in some writing and bask in the ambiance.

This Week’s To-Do List:

As the day and week progresses, I have several important tasks on my agenda. Among them, I need to pick up my heart medications from the pharmacist and receive allergy shots on Tuesday.

I need to reach out to both my cardiologist and rheumatologist to discuss some concerns about my medications and the persistent joint pain I’ve been experiencing.

Tonight (Monday, June 19) I have the monthly meeting of the Writer’s Guild of Texas at 7 PM in the basement of the Richardson Public Library.

Reflecting and Reconnecting:

The middle of the week holds promise for reconnecting with loved ones. But first, on Wednesday, the housekeeper comes, ensuring a fresh and tidy living space.

I had plans to meet my friend Les Hall at JGs Old Fashion Hamburgers for an early lunch, a tradition we’ve maintained since our days as coworkers. Wednesdays are always open for friends to join us!

A Trip Down Memory Lane:

Wednesday afternoon marks the start of a small getaway. Driving my trusty Mercedes, I’ll embark on a journey to Gonzales, Texas, where I had made reservations at a lovely hotel. The purpose of this trip was to pay a visit to my parents’ graves, especially poignant as Thursday would have been my father’s 96th birthday. After two nights, I would return on Friday morning and afternoon. I’m just getting too old to make the 250 plus miles each way in one day or even as an over night trip. Accepting the limitations of age forced on me is challenging.

A Solo Movie Date:

The week will end on a high note. I have my monthly date with Harry Potter. This month it’s seeing Harry Potter and The Goblet of Fire at the Angelika Theatre in Plano on Saturday. While I usually watch Harry Potter movies alone, I invite any local friends who wanted to join me. The magic of Hogwarts is best shared, after all.

Conclusion:

Settling down to focus on my writing for the morning, I reflect on the events of the day and the week that lie ahead. It’s a day filled with celebration, responsibilities, and cherished memories.

Wishing you all a fantastic day, filled with joy and inspiration! Keep on smiling. Be the light that shines into someone’s day. Let others see Jesus in you.

Writing Life – June 8, 2023

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Jimmie Kepler holding CS Lewis classic spiritual books bookset.

Hey everyone. Happy Thursday. Let’s make it a terrific day! 🎉 It’s June 8th, and I’m feeling fantastic! Here’s a glimpse of my day so far:

Started the morning with my usual routine of taking my RXs and spending some peaceful time with my devotional. ✨ It’s important to start the day on a positive note!

I had an exciting moment of financial responsibility by making a deposit to my bank savings account as some money I was owed showed up – as they say they check was in the mail.  💰 It’s always great to see those savings grow! I like collecting money more than spending it. Sigh – I paid my quarterly federal taxes yesterday, so on the ledger it’s like a wash or break even.

Then, I hopped into my car and drove to my favorite local coffee house ☕️ to get my caffeine fix. Nothing beats the aroma of freshly brewed coffee in the morning!

Now, I’m diving into some productive writing and editing tasks. 📝 There’s something satisfying about polishing your work and making it shine!

Later in the morning, I’ll be delving back into the enchanting world of “The Lord of the Rings” by J.R.R. Tolkien. 🧙‍♂️ Can’t wait to get lost in the epic adventure once again!

Afterwards, I’ll be heading to the mall for my daily walk. 🏃‍♀️ It’s a great way to stay active and enjoy some window shopping at the same time!

In the afternoon, I’m continuing my reading journey with “The Screwtape Letters” by C.S. Lewis. 📚 It’s fascinating to explore the intricate depths of Lewis’s mind! I’m reading through the spiritual classics of C.S. Lewis (see today’selfie). 📚

I also have more exciting things to work on today, like more government paperwork preparing for my trans-pacific cruise. 🚢 Adventure awaits!

Yesterday, I had a major win by securing my assigned seats on a Quantas Airlines flight from Sydney, Australia back to LAX for a November trip. I got an aisle seat close to the restroom – both are important for me and especially since I’ll on the plane over sixteen hours. ✈️ The excitement is building up!

Later tonight, I’ll be joining a refreshing Bible Study Magazine session via Zoom. 📖 It’s always inspiring to connect with others and grow in faith together. The group is an important part of my writing family and my personal spiritual growth.

Before I doze off, I’ll be indulging in some captivating bedtime reading with “Madly, Deeply” by Alan Rickman. 🌙 It’s like having a personal conversation with the amazing actor himself! Don’t know Alan Rickman? He was the villain in the first Die Hard movie and Snape in the Harry Potter movies plus many more movies and plays.

Remember, folks, have an amazing day and strive to make a positive impact on someone’s life. Let the light of Jesus shine through you, and spread that love and positivity! ✨❤️ Let’s make the world a better place together!

Writer’s Log – June 5, 2023

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Hey everyone, it’s Monday, June 5, 2023, and I’m currently chilling at my favorite local Starbucks! Can you believe I slept in so late today? 😱 I hit the hay around midnight, but my alarm clock rudely woke me up at 7:00 AM to take out the trash and recycling. Gotta do our part to save the Earth, right? ♻️ After that, I couldn’t resist crawling back into bed and ended up waking up at 11:30 AM. Guess I really needed that extra shut-eye!

So instead of dealing with the usual morning traffic, I had to navigate through lunchtime traffic on my way to this coffee paradise. At least the midday drivers seem more awake and less grumpy! 😄 I ordered my go-to cup of Pike Place coffee (no blonde available after 11 AM, boohoo), found a cozy spot, and kicked off my day by doing my morning devotion. Gotta start the day on a positive note, right?

After that, I spent some time setting up two-factor authentication for Twitter using Google Authentication for iOS. Apparently, Twitter now wants us to have a paid account to use two-factor SMS authentication. Oh well (greedy Elon Musk), better safe than sorry, especially when I’m working on my laptop in coffee shops. I always make sure to use a virtual private network (VPN) for extra security online. The one I use is VPN by Google One, a super reliable app by Google/Alphabet.

To set the mood, I’ve got some fantastic “Happy Summer Morning & Relaxing Jazz Instrumental Music at Coffee Shop Ambience for Working, Studying” playing in the background. It’s perfect for creating a relaxed atmosphere. If you’re interested, you can check it out at this YouTube link: [insert link here] 🎶

Alright, time to dive into some writing and then tackle a bunch of errands. My to-do list is jam-packed today, but I’m ready to conquer it all! 💪 By the way, I’m thrilled to announce that Operation Bye, Bye AT&T Uverse is officially complete! I finally got rid of my cable and switched to AT&T Fiber Optic and streaming services. Huge shoutout to Jason and Andy for making it happen. You guys rock! 🙌

On a side note, I went for a five mile walk yesterday and ended up with a couple of blisters on my feet and toes. Ouch! It’s so uncomfortable, but it’s weird because I never used to get blisters when I was an infantryman in the US Army and walked for a living. Oh well, the joys of civilian life, huh? 😅

There’s still so much on my plate, and I can’t believe it’s already past noon. Time really flies! Anyway, wishing you all an absolutely fabulous and magical Monday. Let’s make the most of it and spread some positivity! ✨💖

Writer’s Log – June 4, 2023

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🌟✨ It’s a spectacular Sunday! 🌞💃 The date is June 4, 2023. I always write the day, date, and year just to make sure I’m on track, haha! 😄

Yesterday was a scorcher! 🔥🌡️ The weather person predicted 82°F, but we soared up to a humid 88°F! ☀️💦 The rain was dancing around everywhere except where I was. Today, they’re saying we’ll have upper 80s with a lower chance of rain. Fingers crossed! 🤞🌧️

Exciting news! 🎉🛫 I just booked my flight back to DFW and the USA from Sydney, Australia! 🇺🇸✈️ I’ll be spending five amazing nights in Sydney this November. After a month of exploring Hawaii, French Polynesia, Tahiti, Pago Pago, American Samoa, and New Zealand, my trans-Pacific cruise will end in Sydney. I can’t wait. It is a #bucketlisttrip! 😍🌏

Last night, I had a blast watching hours of YouTube videos about Sydney, Australia and all the fantastic things to do there. I feel like I know so much about the city, yet there’s still so much more to learn! Seems they have beaches, museums, parks, and lots of food.📺📚

Guess what I did this morning? You got it! After showering and washing my hair, shaving, dressing, and taking my RX’s, I hopped in the car and drove straight to Starbucks for my much-needed dose of coffee and writing time. ☕️📝 Gotta get that word count in before church and Bible study! 📖🙏 Currently, I’m jamming to the Precious Memories Collection by Alan Jackson. 🎶 For those who don’t know, Mr. Jackson is a fantastic country singer, and this collection consists of those classic church hymns that still give me goosebumps when we sing them at church. 🎵❤️

My agenda for today is packed! I’ll be attempting to apply online for my travel visa to New Zealand and Australia. 🌍✈️ No time like the present to get it done, right? I’ll also check in on NASCAR because, let’s go #8 Kyle Busch and Richard Childress Racing! 🏎️💨

Getting my steps in is a must today. When I don’t hit my 10,000 steps, I tend to gain weight instead of maintaining it. As the doctor says, “Eat less, exercise more!” 💪🥗 And as the Apostle Paul says in the Bible, “The things I know I should do, I don’t, and the things I know I shouldn’t do, I do.” 🍦🍿 Bad ice cream and tempting popcorn, why must you be so delicious?

I’ve got some extra editing to tackle today. I’m a bit behind on my goal of completing the recommended edits, but I’m determined to catch up. The book on Hope is still set for release this month, as long as I finish up and send everything back to the publisher. 📚✍️

Somewhere in my busy day, I’ll make sure to dive into the world of J.R.R. Tolkien and Lord of the Rings. Just ten to fifteen minutes a day to get lost in the magic! 🧙‍♂️📖

This evening, I’ll have a tough choice to make: swimming or visiting with “she who can’t be named on the Internet.” 😄🏊‍♀️👵 I’ll probably end up visiting her son, daughter-in-law, and adorable grandchildren. Can’t resist family time!

What are you doing to make your Sunday spectacular? Don’t forget to include the Lord in your day! 🙌❤️

#SpectacularSunday #June4th2023 #BlessedSunday #SydneyBound #CoffeeLover #SundayAgenda #FitAndActive #WritingGoals #NASCARFan #Bookworm #FamilyTime

Writer’s Log – June 2, 2023

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🌟 Hey there, fabulous friends! It’s finally Friday, June 2, 2023, and the energy is electric! ⚡️ I woke up this morning to a toasty 80 degrees Fahrenheit, but in Texas, we call that “preheating for summer”! 🔥 Can you feel the heat, y’all?

💪 Let me tell you, yesterday was a total productivity party! 🎉 I tackled my to-do list like a boss and conquered ten tasks! Who’s got the productivity crown? This guy right here! 👑

🎬 Last night, I caught the premiere of the mind-blowing UFO disclosure movie, “Accidental Truth: UFO Revelations”! 🛸 The tagline says it all: “The truth can no longer be contained!” Can you believe it? Those “in the know” who interact with the public are finally opening up about what they know. Little green men or not, I’ve witnessed some mind-boggling unexplained phenomena myself, like the mesmerizing Marfa Lights! 🌠

⏰ Today has been a whirlwind of activity already! I started my day with a dose of my morning RXs, followed by some peaceful devotional time. Then, I dropped off my clothes at the cleaners before meeting up with my buddy, Dan Webster, for a delightful lunch at 1 PM. 🥪 He and his wife are part of my trans-Pacific traveling party this fall.

☕️ Right now, I’m at my favorite spot, Starbucks, sipping on my morning coffee and getting my creative juices flowing. Gotta hit that daily word count, am I right? ✍️

🚶‍♀️ Later on, I’m planning to get my steps in and go for a refreshing walk. It’s all about staying active and feeling alive, my friends! 💃

🔌 Big news! AT&T Uverse is upgrading my Internet today to lightning-fast fiber optics! 🚀 Fingers crossed they don’t play hooky. Though I’ve received mixed email and text messages confirming and saying they may need to reschedule, so who knows? We’ll see if they make it happen! 💻

⛈️ Oh, and keep your eyes on the sky because thunderstorms might crash the party later tonight! If they make an appearance, I’ll cozy up and enjoy a fantastic movie night. If not, it’s all about splashing around in the pool and rocking those water aerobics moves! 💦

✨ Remember, my friends, every day is an opportunity to spread joy and radiate sunshine! ☀️ Be that person who brightens everyone’s day, the one everyone is thrilled to see. Let’s make it a phenomenal day! 🌈💖

Writer’s Log, June 1, 2023

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Hey there, lovely people! 🌟 It’s June 1, 2023, and guess what? I’m super excited because in just 129 days, I’ll be embarking on a fantastic trans-pacific cruise! 🚢🌊 Can you believe it? This has been on my bucket list forever, and I can’t wait for the adventure to begin!

Let me give you a little sneak peek of the cruise itinerary. We’ll be starting in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, then sailing off to breathtaking destinations like Hawaii, Tahiti, and French Polynesia. Oh, la la! 😍 After that, we’ll make a stop at Pago Pago in American Samoa before heading to the stunning landscapes of New Zealand and Australia. Twenty-nine days of pure bliss! And you know what’s even better? I’ll be spending a few extra days exploring Australia before heading back home. 🐨✈️

Today’s photo is a gorgeous stock image from the stunning paradise of Tahiti, which is part of French Polynesia. Fun fact: you don’t need a visa for stays up to 90 days in Tahiti, but make sure you have your passport ready to go! 🏝️🛂

Now, when it comes to American Samoa, lucky for us Americans, no visa is required. Just don’t forget to pack that passport of yours! As for New Zealand and Australia, passports and visas are a must. Time to get that paperwork sorted ASAP, my friends! 🗺️🛃

But enough about travel logistics. Let’s talk about what’s been happening lately. On Wednesday, I had the most amazing time hanging out with my good friend Les. We indulged in a delicious lunch and took a lovely stroll at North Park Center. And guess what? We even met up with my mysterious friend, who shall remain nameless on the internet, for some mouthwatering Mexican food at one of my all-time favorite restaurants. Good times, good company! 🌮❤️

This morning, I treated myself to a bit of extra sleep since I stayed up until midnight. Rise and shine happened just after eight AM. After taking care of some chores around the house and getting the trash out, I made my way to Starbucks for my much-needed cuppa. ☕

To kickstart my day, I completed my morning devotional, and I’ve been jamming to uplifting Christian music on The Prestonwood Worship channel on YouTube. Seriously, you’ve got to check it out! Here’s the link: https://www.youtube.com/@PrestonwoodWorship/videos 🎶✨

My to-do list is bursting with tasks today, but I won’t bore you with all the details. Let’s just say it involves some walking, reading, and tackling the routine stuff that comes with life. Gotta stay productive, right? 💪📚

Before I wrap up, I want to take a moment to send out some prayers and good vibes to all the incredible attendees of the Blue Ridge Christian Writer conference. As they head home with newfound knowledge, hopes, and dreams, I pray for their safety and that they have the courage to pursue the amazing opportunities they encountered at the conference. You’ve got this, writers! 🙏✍️

Alrighty, folks, it’s time for me to dive into my morning writing session. Thanks for joining me on this little update. Stay tuned for more adventures, fun stories, and positivity coming your way! Until next time! 😄🌈

Writer’s Log, May 22, 2023

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Jimmie Kepler seated outdoors in front of green bushes. He's wearing a Stetson straw hat, Kid Rock style.

🌟 Good morning, my lovely friends! It’s Monday, May 22, 2023, and I’m feeling the magical vibes today! ✨ Did you know that Prince wrote a fantastic tune called “Manic Monday,” which was made famous by The Bangles? Well, my Mondays are far from manic, they are pure magic! So, let’s kick-start this “magical Monday” and make it an extraordinary day! 💫

I have not one, but two exciting announcements to share with you all today. Announcement number one: After much contemplation, I have decided NOT TO ATTEND the Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writer’s Conference this year. My heart was urging me to go, see my friends, and have a great time, but my head reminded me of the hectic Memorial Day weekend traffic during my 1,200-mile drive each way. So, after careful consideration, the decision is made.

Now, brace yourselves for announcement number two: I have decided to treat myself to a trans-pacific cruise! 🚢 As I’ll be turning seventy-years-old this November, I realized that if I don’t embark on this adventure now, I might never do it. In October and November of this year, I’ll be flying to Los Angeles, where I’ll catch my cruise ship.

The journey will take me to breathtaking destinations, including Hawaii with three enchanting island stops, French Polynesia and Tahiti, and American Samoa with its fascinating Pago Pago. And that’s not all—my cruise will also make six stops in beautiful New Zealand, where I’ll have the incredible opportunity to visit Hobbiton and The Shire from the Lord of the Rings movies!

🌺 After exploring New Zealand, I’ll head across the Tasmanian Sea to Australia. I’m even considering extending my stay there for a few extra days or maybe a week to fully immerse myself in the wonders of the land down under. It looks like a couple of lovely ladies from my Dallas writer’s group might be joining me on this remarkable journey. Oh, the anticipation and joy of planning and preparation! That’s part of the fun.

If any of you have been to any of these faraway places, I would love to hear about your experiences. Share the magic with me! ✈️

Now, let’s sprinkle some more “pixie dust” on this magical Monday, shall we? ☕️ I’m currently at my favorite coffee house, enjoying a divine cup of coffee as I dive into my morning writing. It’s the perfect place to be, especially since I’ve already taken care of carrying out the recyclables and trash. With Memorial Day around the corner, I’m also getting ready to repot some plants for a cozy outdoor sitting experience. There’s something truly special about spending time amidst nature.

Speaking of nature, I’ve realized that walking must be a top priority in my daily routine. Regular exercise is the secret to slowing down the aging process and my heart. So, I’m committed to keep on keeping on and take care of my well-being. 🚶‍♀️

In my quest for better health and convenience, I’m trying something new—home delivery of food! 🍽️ I’ve decided to give Hello Fresh a shot. I’m hoping it will help me with portion control and encourage healthier eating habits. Today, I’ll be receiving my eating my first Hello Fresh meals, and I’m eagerly looking forward to trying them out. Fingers crossed for some delicious and nutritious treats!

Oh, and mark your calendars, my friends! Next Saturday, at the Angelika Theatre in Plano, Texas, I’ll be treating myself to a delightful screening of Harry Potter & The Prisoner of The Prisoner of Azkaban on the big screen, starting at 11 AM. And guess what? You’re all invited to join the fun! There’s something truly magical about watching Harry Potter movies in all their grandeur. Let’s make it a fantastic gathering of Potterheads! 🧙‍♂️🎥

Before I go, I wanted to share a selfie with all of you. Here’s a picture of me sitting outdoors, relishing the early morning sunshine while savoring my cup of coffee. It’s the little moments like these that make life truly magical. 🌞☕️

So, my dear friends, let’s embrace this “magical Monday” with open hearts and open minds. May your day be filled with joy, laughter, and enchantment. Remember, you have the power to make every day extraordinary! Let’s make it happen! 💖✨

#MagicalMonday #EmbraceTheMagic #AdventureAwaits #CoffeeLove #Wanderlust #HealthyLiving #HelloFresh #HarryPotterMovieMarathon #MemorialDayPreparations #SelfieTime

Pilgrimage: Lessons Learned from Solo Walking Three Ancient Ways by J.F. Penn

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Pilgrimage

Pilgrimage: Lessons Learned from Solo Walking Three Ancient Ways

So, have you heard of “Pilgrimage: Lessons Learned from Solo Walking Three Ancient Ways” by J.F. Penn? It’s an amazing book that follows the author’s solo walks along three ancient pilgrim routes: the Pilgrim’s Way, the St. Cuthbert’s Way (both in the UK), and the Camino de Santiago in Portugal and Spain.

Personal experiences, challenges, and insights

Penn shares her personal experiences, challenges, and insights as she walks these routes and reflects on the lessons she learned along the way. The book is divided into three sections, each focusing on a different aspect of the journey. The introduction gives you a glimpse into her personal faith journey pilgrimage, which helps set the tone for the rest of the book.

Part 1: Preparation

In the first section, “Part 1: Preparation,” she takes you through her preparation for the journey, including practical information on gear, accommodation, and navigation. She also shares her reflections on the inner journey and her fears, which makes her relatable and vulnerable.

Part 2: The Journey

In the second section, “Part 2: The Journey,” Penn describes her experiences along the way, and the lessons she learned about herself, the world, and the pilgrim tradition. She also includes helpful information for anyone who might want to walk these routes, like hardships, lodging, and eating options.

Part 3: Arriving and the Return

In the third section, “Part 3: Arriving and the Return,” she talks about the letdown of the journey, the unique personal experience, and returning to the real world.

What I love about “Pilgrimage”

What I love about “Pilgrimage” is how Penn weaves together personal anecdotes, historical and cultural information, and philosophical reflections. Her writing is clear and sincere, and she shares both her joys and challenges with honesty and humility. The descriptions of the landscapes, people, and cultures she encounters are vivid and evocative, and she brings a sense of wonder and curiosity to her journey that is contagious.

“Pilgrimage” is a beautifully written and deeply insightful book that will appeal to anyone interested in pilgrimage, travel, or personal growth. Penn’s reflections on the spiritual and psychological benefits of pilgrimage are especially moving and will resonate with readers seeking to deepen their own understanding of themselves and the world around them. 

I highly recommend this book! Five stars.

 

Morning Coffee

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Morning Coffee

By Jimmie Aaron Kepler
Written in Amarillo, Texas
March 14, 2023

I see headlights of white
And red taillights, too
Suddenly brake lights glow bright
Avoiding running into you

And I say to my Lord
“Thank you for another day of life
And for the guardian angels, too.”

The skies are black
The clouds steely grey
And the cold, snowy night
Has two hours before day

And I say to my Lord
“Thank you for another day of life
And for winter departing for spring.”

The hot, steaming brew
Calls my name
And I shuffle to the coffee house
People pay too much without shame

And I say to my Lord
“Thank you for another day of life
And for the service workers, too.”

The baristas endlessly work
Robotic, with a smile on their faces
And they never complain
They’ve found their special places

Yes, I say to my Lord
“Thank you for another day of life.”
And through the windows,
I watch the sun finally rise.

Photo by Zeeshaan Shabbir: https://www.pexels.com/photo/unrecognizable-person-crossing-snowy-road-with-cars-on-dark-street-6872932/

Disclosure: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase using the links in the article I receive a small commission.

Books: Click on BOOKS to see some of the books I’ve written or where I’ve been a contributor. 

Why Should I Visit Talkeetna, Alaska?

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Dr. Jim Kepler in Talkeetna, Alaska in August 2022.

Why Should I Visit Talkeetna, Alaska?

Talkeetna, Alaska is a small town located about 110 miles north of Anchorage. It’s known for its stunning scenery and outdoor recreation opportunities, and is a popular destination for travelers interested in hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

Here are a few reasons why you should consider visiting Talkeetna:

Stunning scenery: 

  • Talkeetna is located in the heart of the beautiful Alaskan wilderness, and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and rivers.
  • It’s a great place to go hiking, biking, or just enjoy the scenery.

Moose art in front of old cabin in Talkeetna, Alaska

Outdoor recreation: 

  • Talkeetna is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with many opportunities for hiking, fishing, and other activities.
  • There are several nearby state parks and nature preserves to explore, as well as rivers and lakes for fishing.

Park adjacent to lake in Talkeetna, Alaska

Wildlife viewing: 

  • Talkeetna is also a great place to see Alaskan wildlife.
  • The area is home to many different species of birds and animals, including bald eagles, moose, and bears.

Nagley’s Store and West Rib Pub & Cafe in Talkeetna, Alaska

Unique culture: 

  • In addition to its natural beauty, Talkeetna also has a unique local culture.
  • The town is home to many artists and craftspeople, and there are several galleries and shops featuring their work.

Popular Culture:

  • The town of Cicely from the 1990 television series Northern Exposure has been said that it could be patterned after Talkeetna by a journalist, but it has not been confirmed by any cast member. Northern Exposure filming actually took place in Roslyn, Washington.
  • The town of Talkeetna was mentioned in Travel Channel’s Man v. Food. In season 2 episode 16, the host travels to the Roadhouse, a restaurant in Talkeetna, to sample their unique breakfast dishes. Also featured is West Rib Pub & Cafe.
  • Talkeetna features heavily in Railroad Alaska on Discovery Channel. The show has three seasons and deals with the lives of people who work the railway, and off-the-grid residents who depend on the railroad for supplies and access to medical facilities.
  • The town was most notably featured in the family classic Snow Dogs.

Alaska Railroad at terminal in Talkeetna, Alaska

Conclusion:

  • Overall, Talkeetna is a great destination for travelers interested in outdoor adventure and beautiful scenery.
  • It’s a unique and fascinating place to visit, and offers many opportunities for exploration and discovery.

 

               

Sources: My visit to Talkeetna, Alaska in August 2022 and from the section on popular culture was adapted from the section “In Popular Culture” from Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Talkeetna,_Alaska.
Photo Source: All photos and videos were taken by the author unless noted in the photo caption, unless otherwise credited.
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